POPULARITY
Blades in the Dark is a game about daring criminals pulling off impossible heists. Our crew immediately used fire to escape the box we voluntarily hid in, assaulted two undercover cops, locked them inside our escape crate, stole accounting records, accidentally got high during evidence collection, and somehow convinced ourselves this was still a stealth mission. Honestly, I think the cult is thriving. Show Notes Part 3 finally dropped us into our first real score and the sewer cult wasted absolutely no time proving they were both competent and deeply concerning. Tasked with infiltrating an illegal leviathan blood refinery hidden beneath an apothecary, we chose the most sensible plan imaginable: smuggle ourselves inside in a supply crate. Naturally this immediately turned into an emergency fire escape situation because Talon solved confinement with alchemy and arson. Once inside, things somehow became more chaotic. We discovered the "guards" were actually Bluecoats running security for the operation, meaning our weird little cult had accidentally punched local law enforcement in the face before the score even properly started. Rather than murder them and summon ghost problems, we tied them up, stuffed them back into the crate, and continued the mission like this was all part of the plan. It absolutely was not. The score also gave us a chance to see Blades in the Dark really shine mechanically. Flashbacks let us retroactively prepare, clocks tracked rising danger, and the system constantly pushed us forward instead of letting us stall in planning mode. Every success created new problems and every problem somehow made the story better. Meanwhile Talon uncovered suspicious ledgers pointing to illicit operations while Roper discovered the drugs in the least scientific way possible by accidentally inhaling them and immediately becoming evidence. It was a perfect demonstration of why this game works so well. The mechanics encourage momentum, but the players create the disasters. By the end we had stolen evidence, infiltrated the operation, mildly traumatized two cops, and learned an important lesson. Never let the ghost guy do quality control on contraband. Key Takeaways The crew's first score involved infiltrating an illegal leviathan blood refinery hidden beneath an apothecary Smuggling themselves inside in supply crates immediately escalated into improvised arson Talon used alchemy and fire to escape confinement and start the mission The refinery operation appeared connected to illicit drug production The guards turned out to be Bluecoats acting as security for the site Killing enemies in Doskvol creates major problems because ghosts are very real Flashbacks allowed retroactive preparation without lengthy planning sessions Clocks helped track danger, progress, and rising alert levels Talon recovered ledgers that may contain coded evidence of illegal activity Roper accidentally sampled the contraband and became mildly intoxicated during evidence collection The score highlighted how Blades in the Dark rewards momentum over perfect planning The cult continues to be alarmingly effective despite having absolutely no business succeeding Welcome to the RPGBOT Podcast. If you love Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, and tabletop RPGs, this is the podcast for you. Support the show for free: Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast app. It helps new listeners find the best RPG podcast for D&D and Pathfinder players. Level up your experience: Join us on Patreon to unlock ad-free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT Podcast, chat with us and the community on the RPGBOT Discord, and jump into live-streamed RPG podcast recordings. Support while you shop: Use our Amazon affiliate link at https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ and help us keep building tools and guides for the RPG community. Meet the Hosts Tyler Kamstra – Master of mechanics, seeing the Pathfinder action economy like Neo in the Matrix. Randall James – Lore buff and technologist, always ready to debate which Lord of the Rings edition reigns supreme. Ash Ely – Resident cynic, chaos agent, and AI's worst nightmare, bringing pure table-flipping RPG podcast energy. Join the RPGBOT team where fantasy roleplaying meets real strategy, sarcasm, and community chaos. How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra BlueSky: @rpgbot.net TikTok: @RPGBOTDOTNET Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games BlueSky: @GravenAshes YouTube: @ashravenmedia Randall James BlueSky: @GrimoireRPG Amateurjack.com Read Melancon: A Grimoire Tale (affiliate link) Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati
Meet Burton Mossman, the fearless cattleman turned lawman who became the first Captain of the Arizona Rangers in 1901. Tasked with taming rampant rustling and banditry in the final days of the Old West, Mossman assembled a elite group of Rangers and led daring pursuits — including the dramatic cross-border hunt for the notorious killer Augustine Chacon. This episode dives into the real story of one of Arizona's most legendary lawmen, his high-stakes tactics, and the brutal realities of frontier justice.
In 1941, Pamela met Averell Harriman, the American overseeing Lend-Lease, and immediately recognized his importance to British survival. Tasked with enlisting him to the British cause, she used her beauty and intelligence to "bewitch" him, turning the aloof statesman into a passionate advocate for UK aid. Pamela became Churchill's "secret weapon," gathering vital military intelligence and White House thinking from influential Americans like Harriman and CBS reporter Ed Murrow. She and Murrow shared a deep, passionate relationship, and she fed him information to shape American public opinion in favor of the European war effort. Simultaneously, she managed multiple high-profile liaisons with American generals and intelligence officers, maintaining these critical back-channels without causing scandal. Her work helped solidify the nascent Anglo-American alliance. She was so well-embedded in the military leadership that she knew the timing of the D-Day invasion before it was publicly announced. (3/8)1650 HOLLAND
Gaius and Germanicus debate in their favorite wine bar by the Thames, in Londinium, Spring 92 AD. This segment critiques the "Redeemer Nation" myth, which portrays America as a divinely appointed "city on a hill" tasked with saving humanity. While this vision was cemented following World War II, the hosts argue it is now an "inappropriate myth" for a nation that has moved closer to the original Roman model of "might makes right." Over the last 25 years, the U.S. is seen as having abandoned its role as a "wellspring of good" in favor of "Roman imperial fiat," using a "gossamer curtain of altruism" to mask the forced bringing of nations to heel. The hosts list a series of failed interventions—including Iraq, Afghanistan, and Libya—that have resulted in millions of deaths and degraded America's remaining moral authority. They conclude that the idea of American redemption is now a "lie that is no longer sustainable," as the world recognizes the disconnect between the nation's rhetoric and its actions. The episode ends with a stark depiction of the "emperor" lecturing children on the "madness of Iran" while appearing physically diminished and disconnected from reality, suggesting that the U.S. has become the very tyrannical force it once sought to liberate the world from. (3/3)1793 VIRGIL READING THE AENEID TO AUGUSTUS
James Scott introduces General Haywood Hansel, an intellectual strategist tasked with using the expensive and "buggy" B-29 Superfortress to destroy Japan's industrial capacity in late 1944. Hansel is a pioneer of high-altitude daylight strategic bombing, a theory suggesting that precision strikes on refineries and bridges can collapse a modern economy like a "house of cards." However, the European campaign proved this strategy was often a long, painful slog rather than a quick fix. Hansel faces immense pressure from General Hap Arnold, the commander of the Army Air Forces, who is desperate to prove air power can be an independent, war-winning arm. Arnold, suffering from multiple heart attacks due to the stress of competing with the Army and Navy, views the war against Japan as a "blank canvas" for the Air Force. Consequently, Hansel is expected to bomb Japan out of the war to avoid a catastrophic ground invasion. 1/81945 OPPENHEIMER AND GROVES
Greedy Green Goats owner Ben Peterson joined David & Will to discuss how they are using goats to clean up verges in the Hills. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
At 35, Kate Bowler had the life she'd always wanted: she was a Duke University professor, married to her high school sweetheart, with a one-year-old son. Then she was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer.Today, Kate is a five time New York Times bestselling author, host of the Everything Happens podcast and one of the most inspiring and unique voices on the subject of suffering, the myth of the prosperity gospel and the reality of the human condition.POWERED BY KINGSLEY NAPLEY: I know what it is to have the right legal support around you when facing crisis. Kingsley Napley are the kind of lawyers I wish more people knew about – there to help you make the right decisions, protect what matters and build real resilience when the pressure is on. This episode is powered by Kingsley Napley, visit www.kingsleynapley.co.uk for more details.FIVE LESSONS FROM KATE:Don't trust your 2 am self. Your 2 a.m. self is despairing and terrified.People want to help. Give them small, specific ways to show they love you.Put an expiry date on bitterness.Saying yes opens up untold opportunities – often it's worth it.Happiness is cheap. Meaning isn't. A happy person isn't necessarily living a meaningful life – they're often just extremely lucky.CHAPTERS: 04:42 – Defining resilience10:49 – Growing up with depressed person14:46 – The prosperity gospel16:48 – When it all came apart20:33 – The diagnosis22:07 – Performing gratitude35:23 – Rules for surviving cancer43:33 – The reality of being cured45:12 – Joyful Anyway48:19 – The happiness industry51:23 – On stoicism55:35 – Fear, sharks and risk58:18 – Tasked with loveBUY KATE'S NEW BOOK:Joyful Anyway – www.amazon.co.uk/Joyful-Anyway-Finding-Delight-Impossible/dp/1037202562FOLLOW KATE BOWLER: Instagram – www.instagram.com/katecbowler/YouTube – www.youtube.com/@katecbowlerTikTok – www.tiktok.com/@katecbowlerSubstack – https://katebowler.substack.com/Podcast – Everything HappensFOLLOW CRISIS WHAT CRISIS? Instagram – www.instagram.com/crisiswhatcrisispodcastTikTok – www.tiktok.com/@crisispod
Season 11, Episode 4Hollywood Hunters - “Good Will Haunting!”Written by Brandon L. Joyner SYNOPSIS:When talent agents Patty Odd and Jesse Ball of Odd/Ball Talent are handed a mysterious script bequeathed by the late Hemlock Blackwood, they find themselves in over their heads. Tasked with retrieving the cursed screenplay from the haunted Blackwood Mansion, they uncover secrets, face spectral threats, and even strike an unusual deal with a ghostly actor desperate for his big break. As the duo navigates through eerie mansions, menacing moans, and an opportunistic starlet, their journey to bring a ghost's story to the silver screen spirals into chaos. But can they survive the world of Hollywood – both the living and the dead – and make their supernatural movie dream a reality? Or will this project end up as just another ghost story?Find out in this thrilling and hilarious episode of Hollywood Hunters!"Rocket Ranger Blaster Commercial” CAST:SARALYN ORTIZ - JOANNEBRANDON L. JOYNER - SPUDJAY SHADIX - TIMMY“Hollywood Hunters” CAST:LIZZIE MEARS - PATTY ODDMIKE HORNACEK - JESSE BALLJAY SHADIX - RALPH DEWITTSARALYN ORTIZ - CONNIE CHARLESTONANDREA CATANGAY - MAXINEBRANDON L. JOYNER - LEOPOLD GOLDBLUMSong: “I'M NOT BEAUTIFUL, YOU'RE DRUNK” Sung by MIKE HORNACEKMusic by Pedro ToroLyrics by Brandon L. JoynerSong - “Until Next Time”Sung by David Joyner, Jeannie Joyner, John Joyner, Kristen N. Granet and the Cast of SWK Music by Pedro M. ToroLyrics by Brandon L. Joyner DAVID JOYNER - THE NARRATORMusic Direction and Accompaniment by Joanna NorwoodSound Effects performed LIVE by Brooke RashProduction Team:Producers: Maddie Casto-Koebler, Kristen N. Granet, Brandon L. Joyner, Brooke RashSound Engineer: Matt Ciclon Recording & Mixing by: Matt CiclonBusiness & Podcast Manager: Kristen N. Granet Original episode art by Maddie Casto-KoeblerLogo: LinkonThis Episode is Proudly Brought to You by the Generous Support of:Karen's Korner Frame & Gift Shop (karenskornerframeandart.com/) - Celebrating 26 YEARS in the ARTS!Indigo Wellness LLC, Uli Junker (indigo-wellness.com)Pawsitive Wellness (pawsitive-wellness.com)Saltwater Cowboys (saltwater-cowboys.com)Ledford's Termite & Pest Control (www.LedfordsPestControl.com)Justin Wham - Flowers & Events (jwweddingsandevents.com/)Such and Such Designs (www.suchandsuchdesigns.com) Toro Music Studio (www.toromusicstudio.com)Special Thanks to:Lesa Spillers, Julia Sorenson, Tara O'Shields, Rose Newman, Josh Anderson, Kerry Bowers, Jeff & Teri Ziccardi, The Joyner Family, Cheryl Granet, Seth Milling-Furchgott, Jef Bailey, Alison Le, Brad Walbeck along with other marvelous yet anonymous donors!Connect with Us: Facebook, Instagram @swkradioshowFor more information on who we are and what we're about, visit: https://www.shortwavekitsch.com/Our show thrives with the support of our Patreon community! If you're able, we invite you to be part of the journey and help sustain the laughter for episodes to come.Support Our SWK Pod: patreon.com/SWKRadioShow
In this episode of The CX Tipping Point Podcast, Martha Dorris sits down with Jorge Cardenas, CIO of Brownsville, Texas and a 2025 Service to the Citizen Award winner. Tasked with transforming one of the least connected cities in the U.S., Jorge shares how he built a smart city from the ground up, modernizing infrastructure, expanding fiber networks, and launching a private 5G network.He discusses key digital initiatives that improved city services, from online permitting and service request tracking to enhanced public safety systems and community Wi-Fi. Jorge also highlights Brownsville's growing use of AI and its innovation lab, along with future plans to expand connectivity and regional collaboration.Thank you for listening to this episode of The CX Tipping Point Podcast! If you enjoyed it, please consider subscribing, rating, and leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners!Stay Connected:Follow us on social media:LinkedIn: @DorrisConsultingInternationalTwitter: @DorrisConsultngFacebook: @DCInternationalResources Mentioned:Citizen Services Newsletter2024 Service to the Citizen Awards Nomination Form
In this episode, I am joined by marketing and consulting expert Shane Barker. Hailing from Reno, Nevada, Shane delves deep into his entrepreneurial journey, discussing how he transitioned from working gruelling 18-20 hour days to establishing successful consulting and SaaS ventures like Tracefuse. Tasked with educating rather than hard selling, Shane highlights the importance of understanding client pain points, which allows his businesses to maintain scalable growth without compromising integrity. Shane shares insights on managing a performance-based service model in the competitive space of Amazon selling. Through Tracefuse, Shane aims to safeguard sellers’ reputations by removing unethical and policy-violating reviews. The conversation further explores Shane’s overarching philosophy that prioritises delivering value over simply driving revenue, making his approach more sustainable and customer-focused. By leveraging strategic delegation and efficient time management, Shane exemplifies how to achieve business success without sacrificing personal well-being. To connect with Shane and to learn more about what he does, go to: LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanebarker/ Website – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanebarker/ Email – shane@shanebarker.com
On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Jalsa Urubshurow, CEO and Founder of Nomadic Expeditions. Jalsa shares the story of how he co-founded one of Mongolia's most significant cultural events, the Golden Eagle Festival, held annually in the country's remote West. Drawing on his background as the child of Mongolian refugees and his decades of experience bridging entrepreneurship and heritage, Jalsa shares firsthand stories about partnering with local communities and creating initiatives that drive economic growth while protecting Mongolia's unique natural and cultural assets. What You Will Learn in This Episode: How Jalsa pioneered luxury adventure travel to Mongolia and developed Nomadic Expeditions as a catalyst for sustainable tourism How tourism builds community empowerment and cultural preservation in Mongolia What inspired the revitalization of the Golden Eagle Festival, transforming a dying tradition into a thriving cultural event How sustainable tourism practices are woven into every aspect of the guest's business, including conservation, guide training, and eco-conscious hospitality How local partnerships support Mongolian culture, economy, and educational initiatives What challenges and opportunities exist for tourism infrastructure in Mongolia, and how access impacts the growth of the industry How Jalsa's deep-rooted passion and commitment to authenticity guide his leadership and vision for responsible travel Pioneering Luxury Adventure and Cultural Revival By the early 1990s, as Mongolia emerged from seven decades of Soviet influence, Jalsa was invited to play a pivotal role in reimagining the nation's future. Tasked by Mongolia's first democratically elected Prime Minister to advise on tourism, he saw an opportunity to chart a new course that blended economic progress with the revitalization of Mongolian heritage. Jalsa founded Nomadic Expeditions in 1992, and unlike operators who prioritized mass-market tourism, Jalsa focused on high-value, low-impact travel experiences. His approach was to bring discerning travelers, scientists, and educational groups to Mongolia, sharing the country's pristine wilderness and nomadic culture. Collaborations with institutions like Harvard, Stanford, and the American Museum of Natural History emphasize the importance of education, research, and immersive connection. Saving a Vanishing Tradition with the Golden Eagle Festival One of Jalsa's most popular initiatives is the Golden Eagle Festival, co-founded in 1999 in Western Mongolia's Bayan-Ölgii province. Here, the art of eagle hunting, a 2,000-year-old Kazakh tradition, was on the brink of extinction, with fewer than 20 practicing families remaining. Through the festival, Jalsa and local partners sought not just to encourage tourism, but to spark a cultural renaissance. The result exceeded all expectations, and today, over 300 eagle hunter families participate, with a new generation of practitioners, many under 30, including remarkable young women, restoring pride and purpose to a once-fading heritage. Now recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural treasure and featured on Time magazine's World's Greatest Places list, the festival shows how sustainable tourism can simultaneously drive economic growth and revitalize events of cultural importance. Championing Community-Driven Tourism Jalsa is all about empowering local ownership and pride. Local guides are "culture bearers," not mere tour operators, sharing traditions learned as children. Investments in musical schools, architectural authenticity, and capacity-building ensure communities shape their future and reap tourism's rewards. Ultimately, as Jalsa says, the best advertising and promotion we can do is word of mouth and personal referral. Resources: Website: https://www.nomadicexpeditions.com/ LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jalsa-urubshurow-a65ba046/ LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nomadic-expeditions-inc-/ We value your thoughts and feedback and would love to hear from you. Leave us a review on your favorite streaming platform to let us know what you want to hear more of. Here is a quick tutorial on how to leave us a rating and review on iTunes!
The work by a small Auckland team to care for organs donated for transplant.
Tasked with overseeing Title VI compliance, the Metro Human Relations Commission works to ensure that the city's 10,000 employees can do their jobs free from discrimination based on race, color, or national origin. Since 2015, the commission has released IncluCivics, a recurring report that looks at the hiring trends, retention rates, and progress toward building a more inclusive environment across departments.The 2026 edition was released today, and in this episode, we take a closer look at what the data reveals. Where is the city making progress, and where do disparities remain? More importantly, how can leaders and communities use this information to drive meaningful change?Later on, we also preview the upcoming Community Needs Evaluation from Metro Social Services. Released yearly for the last seventeen years, this year's report, "Affordability Issues for African Americans in Nashville: Enduring Legacies. Emerging Issues," focuses on continued affordability challenges facing African Americans in Nashville.Together, these reports raise critical questions about equity, opportunity, and the future of our city.This episode was produced by Mary Mancini.Guests: Dr. Jihan Mohammed, research analyst, Metro Human Relations Commission Rev. Davie Tucker, executive director, Metro Human Relations Commission Harriet Wallace, strategic communications manager, Metro Social Services
Reddit rSlash Storytime r maliciouscompliance where My girlfriend spent two years telling me I say yes too much and then asked me to dog-sit for a week Help the customer? Absolutely! Boot camp orders Follow dress code, eh? First time following rules My manager told me to write shorter reports. So I did. Tasked with defying the laws of physics You're only allowed to to listen to one song Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
One Man. One Space Mission. One Problem - this man is not an astronaut. Tasked with saving the world, Ryan Gosling reluctantly takes on an impossible mission: Project Hail Mary. Directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse) launch audiences on a desperate voyage into extraordinary danger. Join Cam & Kirk as they discuss their SPOILER FREE takes of your (possibly) newest favorite space movie. And, as always, don't forget to share your thoughts on Project Hail Mary, whether you've already seen it or can't wait to see it, with us on one of our social media posts or in our free Discord server linked below! Show Open [00:00] Take 1 [05:32] Take 2 [12:34] Take 3 [19:43] Last Looks [25:13] Show Close [29:35] Thanks for listening! Please rate, review, and subscribe if you liked this episode! For all things Popcorn for Breakfast: https://linktr.ee/popcornforbreakfast Check out our website: https://www.popcorn4breakfast.com Chat with us on Discord: https://discord.gg/7wGQ4AARWn Follow us on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/popcornforbreakfast Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeVJZwPMrr3_2p171MCP1RQ Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4HhMxftbuf1oPn10DxPLib?si=2l8dmt0nTcyE7eOwtHrjlw&nd=1 Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/popcorn4breakfast Follow us on Twitter: @pfb_podcast Follow us on Instagram: @pfb_podcast Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@popcornforbreakfast? Email us: contact@popcorn4breakfast.com Our original music is by Rhetoric, check them out on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/44JvjuUomvPdSqZRxxz2Tk?si=hcYoSMLUQ0iPctllftAg2g&nd=1
Tasked to retrieve a magical artifact vital to the survival of the realm, can our heroes retrieve it in time, and what kind of hilarious shit will go down?Our Cast is:DJ as Gorlock of the Hinterlands the barbarianBrad as Jack Silver Tongue the bardEddy as Gregor the fighterHolly as Astra Starshield the cleric of the Holy Light And Austin as our Dungeon MasterMusic Includes:Remember the Way {123 and 4/4} by Mid-Air MachineMedieval Abstraction by Lucas Perný and Miloslav Kollar
A provocative new history of modern black liberalism Black Excellence: Atlanta and the Making of Modern Black Liberalism (U Pennsylvania Press, 2025) offers a provocative new history of modern black liberalism by situating the seemingly conservative tendencies of black elected officials in the post–civil rights era within neoliberal American politics and an enduring black liberal tradition. In the 1970s and '80s, cities across the country elected black mayors for the first time. Just as these officials gained political power, however, their cities felt the full brunt of white flight and deindustrialization. Tasked with governing cities in crisis, black political leaders responded in seemingly conservative ways to the social problems that austerity worsened. Nowhere was this response more evident than in Atlanta. In the nation's preeminent black urban regime, black leaders such as mayors Maynard Jackson and Andrew Young employed the power of policing and the private sector to discipline black Atlantans, hoping they would equip vulnerable communities with the tools to manage the volatility of the era. Danielle Wiggins shows that these punitive responses to the problems of crime, family instability, and unemployment were informed by black liberalism's disciplinary impulse: an enduring tendency to reform behaviors believed to threaten black survival in a white supremacist nation. Forged in response to the violence of Jim Crow, the disciplinary impulse relied upon notions of pathology and its inverse, black excellence. Wiggins identifies several black liberal efforts to cultivate excellent black communities, families, and workers in the post–civil rights era, including community policing, corporate-sponsored family initiatives, and black entrepreneurship. In embracing disciplinary strategies, however, black liberals often focused on behavior at the expense of addressing structural inequality. Consequently, their approaches dovetailed with those of the “New” Democrats, whose post–Great Society social policies were informed by urban black liberals. Black Excellence reveals thus how urban black liberals not only reshaped black politics but, as Democrats, also helped build the neoliberal Democratic Party. Guest: Danielle Wiggins is an assistant professor of history at Georgetown University, where she teaches courses on U.S. and African American history since the 1960s. She is currently researching race and the politics of energy since the 1960s. Focusing on the 1970s energy crisis, her project will explore how black Americans thought about energy, consumption, growth, and sustainability in ways that alternately challenged, intersected with, and radically rethought mainstream energy discourses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/african-american-studies
A provocative new history of modern black liberalism Black Excellence: Atlanta and the Making of Modern Black Liberalism (U Pennsylvania Press, 2025) offers a provocative new history of modern black liberalism by situating the seemingly conservative tendencies of black elected officials in the post–civil rights era within neoliberal American politics and an enduring black liberal tradition. In the 1970s and '80s, cities across the country elected black mayors for the first time. Just as these officials gained political power, however, their cities felt the full brunt of white flight and deindustrialization. Tasked with governing cities in crisis, black political leaders responded in seemingly conservative ways to the social problems that austerity worsened. Nowhere was this response more evident than in Atlanta. In the nation's preeminent black urban regime, black leaders such as mayors Maynard Jackson and Andrew Young employed the power of policing and the private sector to discipline black Atlantans, hoping they would equip vulnerable communities with the tools to manage the volatility of the era. Danielle Wiggins shows that these punitive responses to the problems of crime, family instability, and unemployment were informed by black liberalism's disciplinary impulse: an enduring tendency to reform behaviors believed to threaten black survival in a white supremacist nation. Forged in response to the violence of Jim Crow, the disciplinary impulse relied upon notions of pathology and its inverse, black excellence. Wiggins identifies several black liberal efforts to cultivate excellent black communities, families, and workers in the post–civil rights era, including community policing, corporate-sponsored family initiatives, and black entrepreneurship. In embracing disciplinary strategies, however, black liberals often focused on behavior at the expense of addressing structural inequality. Consequently, their approaches dovetailed with those of the “New” Democrats, whose post–Great Society social policies were informed by urban black liberals. Black Excellence reveals thus how urban black liberals not only reshaped black politics but, as Democrats, also helped build the neoliberal Democratic Party. Guest: Danielle Wiggins is an assistant professor of history at Georgetown University, where she teaches courses on U.S. and African American history since the 1960s. She is currently researching race and the politics of energy since the 1960s. Focusing on the 1970s energy crisis, her project will explore how black Americans thought about energy, consumption, growth, and sustainability in ways that alternately challenged, intersected with, and radically rethought mainstream energy discourses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network
A provocative new history of modern black liberalism Black Excellence: Atlanta and the Making of Modern Black Liberalism (U Pennsylvania Press, 2025) offers a provocative new history of modern black liberalism by situating the seemingly conservative tendencies of black elected officials in the post–civil rights era within neoliberal American politics and an enduring black liberal tradition. In the 1970s and '80s, cities across the country elected black mayors for the first time. Just as these officials gained political power, however, their cities felt the full brunt of white flight and deindustrialization. Tasked with governing cities in crisis, black political leaders responded in seemingly conservative ways to the social problems that austerity worsened. Nowhere was this response more evident than in Atlanta. In the nation's preeminent black urban regime, black leaders such as mayors Maynard Jackson and Andrew Young employed the power of policing and the private sector to discipline black Atlantans, hoping they would equip vulnerable communities with the tools to manage the volatility of the era. Danielle Wiggins shows that these punitive responses to the problems of crime, family instability, and unemployment were informed by black liberalism's disciplinary impulse: an enduring tendency to reform behaviors believed to threaten black survival in a white supremacist nation. Forged in response to the violence of Jim Crow, the disciplinary impulse relied upon notions of pathology and its inverse, black excellence. Wiggins identifies several black liberal efforts to cultivate excellent black communities, families, and workers in the post–civil rights era, including community policing, corporate-sponsored family initiatives, and black entrepreneurship. In embracing disciplinary strategies, however, black liberals often focused on behavior at the expense of addressing structural inequality. Consequently, their approaches dovetailed with those of the “New” Democrats, whose post–Great Society social policies were informed by urban black liberals. Black Excellence reveals thus how urban black liberals not only reshaped black politics but, as Democrats, also helped build the neoliberal Democratic Party. Guest: Danielle Wiggins is an assistant professor of history at Georgetown University, where she teaches courses on U.S. and African American history since the 1960s. She is currently researching race and the politics of energy since the 1960s. Focusing on the 1970s energy crisis, her project will explore how black Americans thought about energy, consumption, growth, and sustainability in ways that alternately challenged, intersected with, and radically rethought mainstream energy discourses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history
A provocative new history of modern black liberalism Black Excellence: Atlanta and the Making of Modern Black Liberalism (U Pennsylvania Press, 2025) offers a provocative new history of modern black liberalism by situating the seemingly conservative tendencies of black elected officials in the post–civil rights era within neoliberal American politics and an enduring black liberal tradition. In the 1970s and '80s, cities across the country elected black mayors for the first time. Just as these officials gained political power, however, their cities felt the full brunt of white flight and deindustrialization. Tasked with governing cities in crisis, black political leaders responded in seemingly conservative ways to the social problems that austerity worsened. Nowhere was this response more evident than in Atlanta. In the nation's preeminent black urban regime, black leaders such as mayors Maynard Jackson and Andrew Young employed the power of policing and the private sector to discipline black Atlantans, hoping they would equip vulnerable communities with the tools to manage the volatility of the era. Danielle Wiggins shows that these punitive responses to the problems of crime, family instability, and unemployment were informed by black liberalism's disciplinary impulse: an enduring tendency to reform behaviors believed to threaten black survival in a white supremacist nation. Forged in response to the violence of Jim Crow, the disciplinary impulse relied upon notions of pathology and its inverse, black excellence. Wiggins identifies several black liberal efforts to cultivate excellent black communities, families, and workers in the post–civil rights era, including community policing, corporate-sponsored family initiatives, and black entrepreneurship. In embracing disciplinary strategies, however, black liberals often focused on behavior at the expense of addressing structural inequality. Consequently, their approaches dovetailed with those of the “New” Democrats, whose post–Great Society social policies were informed by urban black liberals. Black Excellence reveals thus how urban black liberals not only reshaped black politics but, as Democrats, also helped build the neoliberal Democratic Party. Guest: Danielle Wiggins is an assistant professor of history at Georgetown University, where she teaches courses on U.S. and African American history since the 1960s. She is currently researching race and the politics of energy since the 1960s. Focusing on the 1970s energy crisis, her project will explore how black Americans thought about energy, consumption, growth, and sustainability in ways that alternately challenged, intersected with, and radically rethought mainstream energy discourses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies
A provocative new history of modern black liberalism Black Excellence: Atlanta and the Making of Modern Black Liberalism (U Pennsylvania Press, 2025) offers a provocative new history of modern black liberalism by situating the seemingly conservative tendencies of black elected officials in the post–civil rights era within neoliberal American politics and an enduring black liberal tradition. In the 1970s and '80s, cities across the country elected black mayors for the first time. Just as these officials gained political power, however, their cities felt the full brunt of white flight and deindustrialization. Tasked with governing cities in crisis, black political leaders responded in seemingly conservative ways to the social problems that austerity worsened. Nowhere was this response more evident than in Atlanta. In the nation's preeminent black urban regime, black leaders such as mayors Maynard Jackson and Andrew Young employed the power of policing and the private sector to discipline black Atlantans, hoping they would equip vulnerable communities with the tools to manage the volatility of the era. Danielle Wiggins shows that these punitive responses to the problems of crime, family instability, and unemployment were informed by black liberalism's disciplinary impulse: an enduring tendency to reform behaviors believed to threaten black survival in a white supremacist nation. Forged in response to the violence of Jim Crow, the disciplinary impulse relied upon notions of pathology and its inverse, black excellence. Wiggins identifies several black liberal efforts to cultivate excellent black communities, families, and workers in the post–civil rights era, including community policing, corporate-sponsored family initiatives, and black entrepreneurship. In embracing disciplinary strategies, however, black liberals often focused on behavior at the expense of addressing structural inequality. Consequently, their approaches dovetailed with those of the “New” Democrats, whose post–Great Society social policies were informed by urban black liberals. Black Excellence reveals thus how urban black liberals not only reshaped black politics but, as Democrats, also helped build the neoliberal Democratic Party. Guest: Danielle Wiggins is an assistant professor of history at Georgetown University, where she teaches courses on U.S. and African American history since the 1960s. She is currently researching race and the politics of energy since the 1960s. Focusing on the 1970s energy crisis, her project will explore how black Americans thought about energy, consumption, growth, and sustainability in ways that alternately challenged, intersected with, and radically rethought mainstream energy discourses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A provocative new history of modern black liberalism Black Excellence: Atlanta and the Making of Modern Black Liberalism (U Pennsylvania Press, 2025) offers a provocative new history of modern black liberalism by situating the seemingly conservative tendencies of black elected officials in the post–civil rights era within neoliberal American politics and an enduring black liberal tradition. In the 1970s and '80s, cities across the country elected black mayors for the first time. Just as these officials gained political power, however, their cities felt the full brunt of white flight and deindustrialization. Tasked with governing cities in crisis, black political leaders responded in seemingly conservative ways to the social problems that austerity worsened. Nowhere was this response more evident than in Atlanta. In the nation's preeminent black urban regime, black leaders such as mayors Maynard Jackson and Andrew Young employed the power of policing and the private sector to discipline black Atlantans, hoping they would equip vulnerable communities with the tools to manage the volatility of the era. Danielle Wiggins shows that these punitive responses to the problems of crime, family instability, and unemployment were informed by black liberalism's disciplinary impulse: an enduring tendency to reform behaviors believed to threaten black survival in a white supremacist nation. Forged in response to the violence of Jim Crow, the disciplinary impulse relied upon notions of pathology and its inverse, black excellence. Wiggins identifies several black liberal efforts to cultivate excellent black communities, families, and workers in the post–civil rights era, including community policing, corporate-sponsored family initiatives, and black entrepreneurship. In embracing disciplinary strategies, however, black liberals often focused on behavior at the expense of addressing structural inequality. Consequently, their approaches dovetailed with those of the “New” Democrats, whose post–Great Society social policies were informed by urban black liberals. Black Excellence reveals thus how urban black liberals not only reshaped black politics but, as Democrats, also helped build the neoliberal Democratic Party. Guest: Danielle Wiggins is an assistant professor of history at Georgetown University, where she teaches courses on U.S. and African American history since the 1960s. She is currently researching race and the politics of energy since the 1960s. Focusing on the 1970s energy crisis, her project will explore how black Americans thought about energy, consumption, growth, and sustainability in ways that alternately challenged, intersected with, and radically rethought mainstream energy discourses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-south
Show notes provided by:Once again the top brass of Starfleet have gathered together atCommand Headquarters in San Francisco to review the mission entitled: Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan. The august assemblage consists of Admirals James, Josh, John and Keith, and Commodores Jack and Joe. Tasked with the responsibility of dissecting, disseminating, and declassifying (If deemed suitable for public consumption) the information accumulated, the tribunal will rule on the merits, and missteps of the mission. Sounds quite serious? Right? Wrong. These are the trekkie nerds you all know and love pontificating about a Trekfilm that very well may have saved the franchise. And as usual they have a grand time getting their points across about Admiral Kirk and his crafty crew. Remembrances of where and when each of the crew was when they first saw the film is discussed in detail. Also, James poses the question to each member: Name your top three Star Trek films? Among the other topics brought up are the grounding of this film firmly in the now expanding Star Trek universe, the philosophical approaches to aging, and finding your one true place in the universe, and how story and character development trumps budgets and special effects. There's a whole quadrant full of other topics that are fired fromMr. Sulu's weapons station that range from OG Trek creator Gene Roddenberry to the new kid at the Academy, Harve Bennett. And the mystery (or not) of how Spocks's death in the film leaked before it bowed in theaters. Pay attention all recruits will be quizzed at the conclusion of the podcast.No cheating like cadet Kirk. A word to the wise, don't leave Khan in an unstable star system in any other Star Trek reality or reboot, because he will come for you with that cold Klingon revenge dish!
The Cosmic Pizza Podcast brings you Episode 105: Unusual English Words. Tasked with providing a Polish colleague with teaching them a new English word every day, Paul has scoured the English language to find some old and obscure words. Dan Shawn and a virtual Kacey throw in their own selection for good measure. With a brief […] The post Cosmic Pizza Podcast Episode 105: Unusual English Words. appeared first on The ESO Network.
Carl and Mike get into Falcons talk as they share thoughts on Ian Cunningham and Kevin Stefanski being in Indy for the NFL combine and discuss the depth of talent at some positions and why they believe the they may look at quarterbacks in the draft, however that will not be a primary focus.
3 O'clock Hour :00 – Carl and Mike get into some NFL talk as they share more thoughts reports to the Falcons will franchise tag Kyle Pitts and discuss why they believe the move would an affordable move which gives them an opportunity to have the tight end for another year to see if playing in Kevin Stefanski's system will allow the the tight to produce at a high level. :20 – Carl and Mike get into Falcons talk as they share thoughts on Ian Cunningham and Kevin Stefanski being in Indy for the NFL combine and discuss the depth of talent at some positions and why they believe the they may look at quarterbacks in the draft, however that will not be a primary focus. :40 – Carl and Mike discuss what's on DA-DA's mind as they cover Anthony Edwards addressing his "can't wait to home" comments to Jalen Johnson, and Darryn Peterson addressing the criticism he has faced for missing games and taking himself out of several.
Dragons. Long thought mythical beasts or ancient history, their presence looms over Ness in geographic names and forgotten lore. But what if their legend hides a truth far more shocking? Tasked with digging through the maddeningly dense journals of the old wizard Pietro, a frustrated Raef stumbles upon a revelation that could shatter the very foundations of his world, and the mission of the Thieves Guild.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-thieves-guild--6141933/support.Some secrets are worth dying for. Some are worth killing for.----CREDITS ✍️ Writer: Jake Kerr
Carl and Mike get back into some Falcons talk as they share thoughts on the new regime taking place in their first combine as they look to add to the team and address the positions of need and how they will prioritize their selections.
4 O'clock Hour :00 – Carl and Mike are joined by Connor Riley as they discuss the latest on the Georgia Bulldogs and some players being arrested for driving violations. :20 – Carl and Mike get back into Falcons talk and share more thoughts on why it is important for the Falcons to address their backup QB situation due to the fact there is still uncertainty surrounding Michael Penix Jr.'s return as he works his way back from surgery to repair a partially torn ACL. :40 - Carl and Mike get into Guy Talk as they discuss Falcons uniforms, Joe Patrick saying homemade pizza is not good and Olympic ratings doing good in comparison to years past.
In a tribute to the 2026 Winter Olympics being held right now in Cortina, Italy, Amy takes up a discussion of skiing in Japan. Japan has hosted the Winter Olympics 2 times: 1972 (Sapporo) and 1998 (Nagano). Amy introduces previous Washington Post Tokyo Bureau Chief T.R. Reid's guidebook called Ski Japan! (Kodansha, 1993). T.R. Reid lived in Japan for five years during the early 1990's. When the Gulf War started, the world turned its attention to that news, leaving foreign journalists in Japan with some unexpected free time. Reid and his family took action: they went skiing! The result is his 1993 guide to skiing in Japan, called Ski Japan!Tasked with updating the book for 2026-27 skiing and snowboarding audience, Amy talks about some of the points in Reid's book: things that have changed as well as those that have not, and the affects of mass-tourism on Japan's ski resorts.Ski Resorts Mentioned:Niseko, Asahidake, Furano, Naeba, Hakuba Valley, Madarao and Tangram Ski Circus, and Myoko Ski Resorts.Literary Ski SpotsYasunari Kawabata's Snow Country took place in Yuzawa Onsen, the train station you get off at to get to Naeba Ski Area. There's a Snow Country museum behind the station which is excellent.In Sapporo's Odori Park, there is a statue of Ishikawa Takuboku (1886-1912), author and poet: A Handful Of Sand, Romaji Diary and Sad Toys.In Asahikawa, Hokkaido, there is the lovely, contemplative Miura Ayako Literature Museum dedicated to the Christian novelist who lived from 1922-1999, and wrote Shiokari Pass as well as other works not yet translated into English. It's a lovely 30-40 minute walk through the snow from the back of Asahikawa station.There are also several statues and plaques dedicated to the two Austrian fathers of Japanese Skiing: Theordore Von Lerch and Hannes Schnieder. Von Lerch monuments can be found in the front of Asahikawa Airport in Hokkaido, and at Joetsu, Niigata, the latter considered the birthplace of skiing in Japan. The Books on Asia Podcast is co-produced with Plum Rain Press. Podcast host Amy Chavez is author of The Widow, the Priest, and the Octopus Hunter: Discovering a Lost Way of Life on a Secluded Japanese Island. and Amy's Guide to Best Behavior in Japan.The Books on Asia website posts book reviews, podcast episodes and episode Show Notes. Subscribe to the BOA podcast from your favorite podcast service. Subscribe to the Books on Asia newsletter to receive news of the latest new book releases, reviews and podcast episodes.
For review:1. Aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), its escorts and embarked Carrier Air Wing 8 have been tasked from their current position in the Caribbean to the Middle East to support a U.S. naval buildup in the region.2. Asked Friday about potential regime change in Iran, US President Donald Trump said, “it seems like that would be the best thing that could happen,” as he confirmed sending a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East “in case we don't make a deal” with the Islamic Republic.3. US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed to intensify the “maximum pressure policy” in order to force Iran to give up its nuclear program, including clamping down on the sale of Tehran's oil to China, according to a Saturday report citing two US officials.4. The US military is preparing for the possibility of sustained, weeks-long operations against Iran if President Donald Trump orders an attack, two US officials told Reuters, in what could become a far more serious conflict than previously seen between the countries.5. The Board of Peace's High Representative for Gaza Nickolay Mladenov said at the Munich Security Conference on Friday that the Palestinian technocratic committee tasked with governing Gaza in place of Hamas cannot enter the Strip if violations of the ceasefire continue.6. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar to represent Israel at the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington, DC next Thursday.7. The leader of an anti-Hamas militia based in IDF-controlled areas of the southern Gaza Strip said recently that it is working on demolishing the terror group's tunnels, a confirmation that further shows Israel's support for the armed gang.8. A wave of Israeli airstrikes in several areas of southern Lebanon this evening targeted Hezbollah weapon depots and rocket launchers, the military says.9. The governments of Russia and Ukraine confirmed Friday that they would participate in a third round of U.S.-mediated peace talks next week, on Feb. 17 and 18 in Geneva. 10. U.S. Secretary of State Rubio offered a reassuring message to America's allies on Saturday, striking a less aggressive but still firm tone about the administration's intent to reshape the trans-Atlantic alliance and push its priorities.11. Co-development of the French-German-Spanish Next-Generation Fighter (NGF) is almost certainly headed for collapse, with negotiations between Airbus and Dassault halted on the next phase of the project amid a long-running industrial dispute over leadership and workshare, an industry source said today. 12. As part of discussions between Belgium and US giant Lockheed Martin for a potential deal covering 11 additional F-35A fifth-generation fighter jets, Brussels is pushing hard for hefty domestic industrial returns, according to the country's defense minister.
Episode 6 of Starfleet Academy delivers one of the most tonally distinct installments of the season, shifting from collegiate character drama into full psychological thriller and survival horror. The podcast opens with immediate high energy, framing the episode as a major turning point — one that blends classic Trek moral dilemmas with modern cinematic tension. The panel quickly agrees: this is the episode where the show proves it can operate at franchise stakes. The early discussion centers on the controversial opening sequence involving Caleb and Tarima. While romantic development has been building, the telepathic boundary violation sparks debate about trust, consent, and Betazoid psychology. The hosts explore how this tension isn't just interpersonal drama — it foreshadows the emotional decisions both characters must make under life-or-death pressure later in the episode. Once the cadets board the derelict USS Miyazaki, the tone pivots hard into horror. The abandoned post-Burn experimental vessel becomes a graveyard setting — dark corridors, failing systems, and an ever-present sense of dread. The introduction of the Furies raises the stakes immediately. Their cannibalistic nature, hybrid physiology, and predatory tactics create a new kind of enemy — less political, more primal — evoking comparisons to the Vidiians or even Reavers in tone. The hostage scenario and airlock sequence form the episode's action centerpiece. The cadets' inexperience shows early, but they evolve rapidly under pressure. A key moment highlighted in the podcast is the sacrifice of their commanding officer, which forces the cadets to step into leadership roles prematurely. This trial-by-fire dynamic reinforces the show's core theme: Starfleet officers aren't born — they're forged in crisis. Sam's bridge sequence becomes the emotional and technological high point. Tasked with restoring fragmented ship systems, she demonstrates not just computational superiority but personal agency. The panel reads this as a pivotal evolution in her arc — choosing to risk herself for organics, further complicating her loyalty to her creators. Her eventual injury adds philosophical weight: even artificial life can bear scars of trust. The episode closes with wider implications for the season. Nus Braka's looming presence, the emergence of the Furies, and the cadets' accelerated growth all point toward a larger coordinated threat. The hosts speculate that Episode 6 may represent the “Empire Strikes Back” tonal shift of the season — where youthful optimism gives way to the harsh realities of command, sacrifice, and war. 00:01 – Cold open, hype reactions, and spoiler warning for Episode 6 03:20 – Panel introductions and first impressions of the episode 06:10 – Opening romance scene and early character tension 09:05 – Caleb & Tarima relationship analysis and emotional stakes 12:00 – Betazoid abilities and telepathic boundary debate 15:10 – Away mission briefing and training exercise setup 18:20 – Boarding the USS Miyazaki and mission objectives 21:30 – Post-Burn warp lore and ship disaster backstory 24:40 – First appearance of the Furies and threat assessment 27:50 – Horror tone shift and haunted-ship atmosphere 31:00 – Airlock standoff and hand-to-hand combat breakout 34:15 – Tactical coordination and cadet crisis response 37:30 – Leadership contrast: War College vs Academy cadets 40:45 – Lieutenant Commander sacrifice and protocol analysis 44:00 – Bridge lockdown and survival strategy planning 47:10 – Sam begins computer restoration under pressure 50:20 – “1200 files” moment and Sam's hero sequence 53:40 – Comic lore tie-in and Miyazaki historical context 56:50 – Ship systems reboot and turning the tide 01:00:00 – Cadets regain control and tactical regroup 01:04:10 – Genesis & Darum bridge command dynamics 01:08:25 – Leadership growth and teamwork evolution 01:12:40 – Athena ship response and search coordination 01:16:55 – Furry threat escalation and hostage stakes 01:21:05 – Rescue strategy and multi-team execution 01:25:20 – Final confrontation buildup 01:29:35 – Climactic battle and survival resolution 01:33:50 – Nus Braka implications and villain framing 01:37:40 – Sam's injuries and EMH medical response 01:41:10 – Character fallout and emotional aftermath 01:44:00 – Season arc theories and “big bad” speculation 01:46:00 – Final ratings, closing thoughts, and sign-off
Two Toronto based Legal Observers from the Orange Hats return to give us details on the tactics Toronto Police are using to try to bring down the Palestinian Solidarity Movement.Tasked with keeping an eye on cops during protests and other actions, Gisela and Leon have lots of stories to tell. Together the group recently issued a 2025 Year-In-Review on Toronto Police Services conduct at protests. The report includes statistics on injuries and arrests; it warns of trends in policing; and it points to a clear strategy to suppress the activities of activists - and legal observers. Its not all bad news. Thanks to their experience, the Orange Hats are a great source of advice for organizers and activists - or anyone coming into contact with Police. Hosted by: Santiago Helou Quintero and Jessa McLeanProduced by: Santiago Helou Quintero Call to Action: Support Legal Observers - Donate to the Orange HatsREGISTER FOR ONLINE COURSE: Documenting Protests - Feb. 25 @6pm ETRelated Episodes: Watching Cops: Advice for Activists (Feb 2025) The Orange Hats share how to stay safe at protests, and the tactics Toronto police use to harass, intimidate and brutalize activists Exposing Toronto Police Tactics (Sep 2025) Activist and journalist Benjamin Nolan on the Toronto Police Services' violent responses to peaceful protests and their use of the knee-on-neck technique.More Resources: Inside the ‘shocking' police operation targeting pro-Palestine activists in Toronto - The BreachPolice Chief Plays Loose with the Truth on Radio Call-in Show - The Grind MagazineWhat is Strategic Incapacitation – Orange HatsBe sure to catch all our content, including articles and resources for activists, on our SUBSTACK.All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support our work through monthly contributions: PatreonFollow us on Instagram or on Bluesky
Pre-order the Strength & Shield t-shirt: https://israelguys.link/shirt-86ew4cj8y Join the monthly member program: https://israelguys.link/member-86ew5b3bb A dramatic shift is taking place on the world stage as President Trump's proposed Board of Peace begins to take shape, with multiple Muslim nations and global powers agreeing to participate. Tasked with overseeing Gaza's demilitarization, reconstruction, and governance, the board includes countries with long histories of hostility toward Israel—alongside Israel itself. With reports suggesting each founding member may be required to contribute one billion dollars to guarantee their slot, questions are emerging about power, influence, and whether this body could evolve into something far greater than Gaza—possibly even rivaling the United Nations. In today's podcast, we examine what it means for foreign nations to figuratively rule over parts of the Holy Land. Could this be a precursor to the warnings of Zechariah 14? As Christian leaders clash over Israel, global antisemitism rises, we look to Scripture, history, and current events to discern where this path may lead. Follow us on Telegram: https://t.me/theisraelguys Follow Us On X: https://x.com/theisraelguys Follow Us On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theisraelguys Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theisraelguys Heartland Tumbler: https://theisraelguys.store/products/heartland-tumbler "Israel" Leather Patch Hat: https://theisraelguys.store/products/israel-1948-cap
The long-awaited, but unexpected reunion between husband and wife is cut short by a surprise attack from the Children of Brimstone. Tasked with keeping the Director safe, can our trio stay alive long enough to finally uncover her secrets? EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:Joseph P. FarleyWRITTEN BY:Emily Consaga, Josdon Thong, and Ausdon ThongDIRECTED BY:Emily Consaga, Josdon Thong, and Ausdon ThongPRODUCED BY:Emily Consaga, Josdon Thong, and Ausdon ThongLEAD SOUND DESIGN BY:Emily ConsagaASSISTANT SOUND EDITORS:Ausdon Thong and Josdon ThongVOCAL DIRECTION BY: Kim ConsagaMAIN & ENDING THEME BY:Sergio Torres-LetelierInstagram: @storresmusicPREVIOUSLY ON THEME BY:Ilya IvanovADDITIONAL MUSIC BY:Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)“Anguish”“Anxiety”“Constance”“Curse of the Scarab”“Gnarled Situation”“Hush”“Lost Time”“Past the Edge”“Redletter”“Stormfront”“Tempting Secrets”“Unseen Horrors”Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/“Dangerous Ground”By S.I. Publishinghttps://download.audiohero.com/track/16918737“Go On Without Me:By Bryan Teoh https://freepd.com/epic.php“Midnight Drums” By George Nishigomihttps://download.audiohero.com/track/55109148“Ol' Man River”Music by Jerome KernLyrics by Oscar Hammerstein Performed by Ella BowenArranged by Matt ZamoraVocal Direction by Kim Consaga“Politica”By George Nishigomihttps://download.audiohero.com/track/55528786CAST:Noah Belachew as Jason Fenix Erin Nicole Lundquist as Allie WattsGriffin Puatu as Elijah LongLaura Rigon as DaphneSean King as Agent KingAriana Nicole George as Liv HelvigBrian Long as Leonard Seo-JunEurie Nam as Marie Min Corey Holland as SatanXander Grant as Sebastian EdwardsFrancfil Pontaneles as LoganGina Leigh Smith and Lauren Kong as the SES AgentsRita Amparita as the Security AI Corey Holland as Agent BarnesAdditional voices were provided by Rita Amparita, Trenton Butt, Jonathan Cox, Jingle Deleon, GM Hakim, William Harmar, Paxson Helgesen, Corey Holland, Chelsea Krause, Emma Sherr-Ziarko, and Gina Leigh Smith FIND US (if you dare) ON: Instagram: @technomancyproject Bluesky: @technomancyproject.bsky.socialTwitter: @TechnomancyunitTikTok: @thetechnomancyprojectYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thetechnomancyproject9329Faustian Nonsense: https://www.faustiannonsense.com/
In hour 2 Steak and Drew get in to how quickly NFL franchises can get turned around, and what that could look like in Atlanta. 8 years with no playoffs is just not supposed to happen.
Welcome back, everyone, for the conclusion of my interview with Author and retired FBI Special Agent Seamus McElearney. Séamus McElearney began his distinguished career with the FBI in 1998, joining Squad C-10 of the New York Organized Crime Branch. Tasked with investigating the Bonanno and DeCavalcante crime families—infamously known as “the real Sopranos.” In December 1999, he was assigned to arrest Anthony Capo, a violent soldier in the DeCavalcante family, as part of a sweeping indictment. Not only did he safely execute the arrest, but he also achieved a historic breakthrough: persuading Capo to become the first made member in the family’s century-long history to cooperate with law enforcement. This unprecedented move triggered a domino effect of cooperation that ultimately led to the dismantling of the DeCavalcante family. In all, 71 defendants were convicted, and 11 murders were solved. Following this six-year investigation, Séamus was promoted to lead Squad C-38, overseeing the Colombo crime family. Under his leadership, the squad dismantled the Colombos through a series of operations—including spearheading the largest Mafia takedown in FBI history. As Supervisor, Séamus oversaw investigations that led to the conviction of more than 200 defendants and the resolution of 20 murders. Throughout his career as an Agent and Supervisor, Séamus helped convict ten Mafia bosses, recover five bodies, and solve the murder of an NYPD officer. He was part of historic FBI teams that dismantled three organized crime families—an achievement no one else can claim. Seamus is also the author of the popular book, Flipping Capo: How the FBI Dismantled the Real Sopranos. I’m a fan of the TV show The Sopranos, so it was amazing listening to Seamus explain how the “Real Sopranos” operated and how they were dismantled and brought to justice by Seamus and his team. Please enjoy my conversation with Seamus! In today’s episode, we discuss: · How he got Capo to flip. · Capo was a soldier in the mob. What is the rank system of the mob? · What is involved in a ‘made man’ ceremony? (Kissing rings, burning saints, etc...) · Why are we so fascinated with mobsters? · What is the FBI’s role in WITSEC? · How do you keep a rat safe if they are in jail or out on bail? · 9/11, how the FBI changed after that day. · How long did it take to put together the case against the DeCavalcante crime family? · How did the DeCavalcante crime family coexist with the five New York crime families? · Is it true that old-school mobsters didn’t mess with women or children? When did this change? · The Sopranos. What did Hollywood get right and wrong about mob life regarding The Sopranos? · The advice he would give to someone who wants to be an FBI agent. · Sylvester Stallone’s series, The Tulsa King. All of this and more on today’s episode of the Cops and Writers podcast. Visit Seamus's website to learn more about him and his book. Check out the new Cops and Writers YouTube channel! Check out my newest book, The Good Collar (Michael Quinn Vigilante Justice Series Book 1)!!!!! Enjoy the Cops and Writers book series. Please visit the Cops and Writers website.
Shortwave KitschSeason 10, Episode 6Call the Lady Physician - “The War on Christmas!”Written by Brandon L. Joyner Synopsis:Step into the snowy streets of Budapest for a holiday adventure with Cliff Ryder, the ever-daring pilot, and Dr. Elise Banks, the unflappable Lady Physician. When their plane crash-lands far from their destination, the duo stumbles into a city on edge—where revolution's aftermath has left children hiding beneath churches and soldiers on the hunt. Tasked with healing the sick and outsmarting a determined Major Stanev, Cliff and Elise must navigate icy catacombs, tense standoffs, and their own clashing personalities. Will courage and compassion be enough to keep the orphans safe through Christmas Eve, or will the shadows outside finally catch up with them? As the bells fall silent and danger closes in, how far will our heroes go to protect the innocent—and what awaits them in the mysterious telegram that arrives at dawn? Tune in to Call the Lady Physician and ask yourself: what's their next move?"Dr. Clutterbuck's Mini Muncher Commercial” CAST:BRANDON L. JOYNER - CLAY WALKERLUCIANA MARCIAL - SUSIE WALKERMAKENNA BRYANT - DARLA WALKERCALL THE LADY PHYSICIAN CAST:BRANDON L. JOYNER - CLIFF RYDERTIFFANY PARKER-COPELAND - ELISE BANKSANDY LIVENGOOD - PETARDAVID ENGELHART - FATHER AAHRONMAKENNA BRYANT - TANYAANDY LIVENGOOD - MAJOR STANEVMAKENNA BRYANT - SOLDIERLUCIANA MARCIAL - DELIVERY GIRLSong: “Dear Santa” Sung by Stacey TylerMusic by Pedro M. ToroLyrics by Brandon L. Joyner“Until Next Time” SWK Closing SongSung by David Joyner, Jeannie Joyner, John Joyner, Kristen N. Granet and the Cast of SWK Music by Pedro M. ToroLyrics by Brandon L. Joyner “Call the Lady Physician Theme” by Pedro M. ToroMusic Direction and Accompaniment by Patrick BoyleNarrated by David JoynerSound Effects performed LIVE by Brooke RashProduction Team:Producers: Maddie Casto-Koebler, Kristen N. Granet, Brandon L. Joyner, Brooke RashSound Engineer: Matt Ciclon Sound Mixing: Matt CiclonRecorded by: Matt CiclonBusiness & Podcast Manager: Kristen N. Granet Original episode art by Maddie Casto-KoeblerLogo: LinkonThis Episode is Proudly Brought to You by the Generous Support of:Karen's Korner Frame & Gift Shop (karenskornerframeandart.com)Indigo Wellness LLC, Uli Junker (indigo-wellness.com)Pawsitive Wellness (pawsitive-wellness.com)Charleston Caroling Company (charlestoncarolingcompany.com)Saltwater Cowboys (saltwater-cowboys.com)Special Thanks to:Lesa Spillers, Julia Sorenson, Tara O'Shields, Rose Newman, Josh Anderson, Kerry Bowers, Jeff & Teri Ziccardi, The Joyner Family, Cheryl Granet, Seth Milling-Furchgott, Jef Bailey, Alison Le, Brad Walbeck along with other marvelous yet anonymous donors!Connect with Us: Facebook, Instagram @swkradioshowRead episode transcripts NOW!For more information on who we are and what we're about, visit: https://www.shortwavekitsch.com/Our show thrives with the support of our Patreon community! If you're able, we invite you to be part of the journey and help sustain the laughter for episodes to come.Support Our SWK Pod: patreon.com/SWKRadioShow
Welcome, everyone, to part one of my interview with Author and retired FBI Special Agent Seamus McElearney. Come back next Sunday for the conclusion of my interview with Seamus. Séamus McElearney began his distinguished career with the FBI in 1998, joining Squad C-10 of the New York Organized Crime Branch. Tasked with investigating the Bonanno and DeCavalcante crime families—infamously known as “the real Sopranos.” In December 1999, he was assigned to arrest Anthony Capo, a violent soldier in the DeCavalcante family, as part of a sweeping indictment. Not only did he safely execute the arrest, but he also achieved a historic breakthrough: persuading Capo to become the first made member in the family’s century-long history to cooperate with law enforcement. This unprecedented move triggered a domino effect of cooperation that ultimately led to the dismantling of the DeCavalcante family. In all, 71 defendants were convicted; 11 murders were solved. As a result, Séamus and the team received the U.S. Attorney’s Office Director’s Award. Following this six-year investigation, Séamus was promoted to lead Squad C-38, overseeing the Colombo crime family. Under his leadership, the squad dismantled the Colombos through a series of operations—including spearheading the largest Mafia takedown in FBI history. The Bonanno squad was later merged into C-38 under his command. As Supervisor, Séamus oversaw investigations that led to the conviction of more than 200 defendants and the resolution of 20 murders. Throughout his career as an Agent and Supervisor, Séamus helped convict ten Mafia bosses, recover five bodies, and solve the murder of an NYPD officer. He was part of historic FBI teams that dismantled three organized crime families—an achievement no one else can claim. Seamus is also the author of the popular book, Flipping Capo: How the FBI Dismantled the Real Sopranos. I’m a fan of the TV show The Sopranos, so it was amazing listening to Seamus explain how the “Real Sopranos” operated and how they were dismantled and brought to justice by Seamus and his team. Please enjoy my conversation with Seamus! In today’s episode we discuss: · Growing up in the Bronx as a first-generation Irish-American. · The amazing work ethic that was instilled in him by his parents. · Lessons learned working at his dad’s gas station as a kid. · Why he chose the FBI and even a dislocated knee couldn’t stop him! · How he proved himself as a new FBI agent. · His interest in organized crime and his first organized crime case. · The benefits of consensual witness phone recordings. · Omerta and how RICO changed the code of not being a rat. · How to get confessions from mobsters. · Anthony Capo and his first impression of the man Tony Soprano was molded from. All of this and more on today’s episode of the Cops and Writers podcast. Visit Seamus's website to learn more about him and his book. Check out the new Cops and Writers YouTube channel! Check out my newest book, The Good Collar (Michael Quinn Vigilante Justice Series Book 1)!!!!! Enjoy the Cops and Writers book series. Please visit the Cops and Writers website.
AP correspondent Karen Chammas reports on an ex-aide of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who claims he tried to evade responsibility for the October, 2023 security breach.
EPISODE 645 - Anthony Dyer - Moon Child - Roots and Wings of a USAF Combat Special MissionsANTHONY DYER grew up in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, where adventure and resilience were woven into his very being. That same spirit of fearlessness carried him into a life of service, leading to an extraordinary career in Special Operations Aviation as a USAF Combat Special Missions Aviator. Over the course of more than a decade, Anthony flew into some of the most dangerous and unpredictable environments on the planet, executing high-risk missions that demanded precision, courage, and an unbreakable will.His exceptional skill and unwavering commitment to his team earned him numerous accolades, including the Air Force's Jolly Green Rescue Mission of the Year award in 2018 for his role in a daring, life-saving operation. Throughout his career, he witnessed both the triumphs and the burdens of combat, experiencing firsthand the weight that warriors carry long after the missions end.When he's not writing or speaking on behalf of those who have walked a similar path, Anthony finds solace in fishing, basketball, and the simple joys of family life. Above all, he is a devoted father and husband, embracing the adventure of parenthood with the same passion and intensity that defined his military career. Now residing in New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment, Anthony continues his journey—one that is no longer defined by combatBook - Moon Child: The Roots and Wings of a USAF Combat Special Missions AviatorBorn in the rugged Appalachian town of Sylva, North Carolina, Anthony Dyer was raised in a world of untamed adventure, where resilience was a way of life. That same fearless spirit propelled him into the elite realm of Special Operations Aviation, where he spent over a decade as a USAF Combat Special Missions Aviator, flying into the world's most volatile war zones. Tasked with executing high-risk missions under relentless pressure, Anthony's career was defined by precision, courage, and sacrifice. But what happens when the mission ends?In Moon Child, Anthony delivers a raw, unfiltered account of his life in combat-the triumphs, burdens, and unseen wounds that follow Warriors home. He shares the harrowing details of his most dangerous operations, including the 2018 Jolly Green Rescue Mission of the Year, where split-second decisions meant the difference between life and death. Yet, beyond the battlefield, Anthony faced a far deadlier enemy: the silent battles of addiction, trauma, and the search for purpose beyond war.For those who have known war, for those who have battled addiction, and for those still finding their way-Moon Child is your story, too.https://www.traitmarkermedia.com/moonchildSupport the show___https://livingthenextchapter.com/podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks!https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca
Last week, two National Guard soldiers were shot in Washington, D.C. after they were ambushed by a lone shooter near the airport. One was killed and the other remains in serious condition. The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was shot and is still in hospital facing murder charges. The picture emerging of Lakanwal is of an isolated, deeply troubled man struggling to support his wife and five kids. Lakanwal is a 29-year-old Afghan-national who had served as part of an elite CIA-trained and backed paramilitary group known as the Zero Units. Tasked with carrying out some of the most dangerous missions in the war on terror, the Zero Units have also been accused by rights groups of war crimes in their notorious night raids.Kevin Maurer is a best-selling author and longtime reporter who spent many years covering the war in Afghanistan. He talks about how this shooting fits into the broader legacy of the war on terrorism and the ripple effects it's had abroad and closer to home. For transcripts of Front Burner, please visit: https://www.cbc.ca/radio/frontburner/transcripts
There’s no harder working crew on TV than the fast-paced, always-on-call team behind Dancing with the Stars. And arguably, no one is under more pressure than the costume department. Tasked with creating dozens of new outfits every week, it’s no surprise this team has seen its share of award show nominations. And helping lead the pack - costumer Daniela Gschwendtner! Hear all about her creative process and how every single rhinestone has a reason. And what themes does she look forward to every year? And which does she dread? Plus, find out which past costumes she considers iconic - all on a new Danielle With…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Janice McAfee joins us in the tent today to talk about John McAfee's entire timeline of crazy events, how she met John, never-before-heard stories about their marriage, answers the question of who could have potentially killed John McAfee and other interesting topics... WELCOME TO Camp!
Carl and Zinno get into some Falcons talk and share thoughts on why the latest injury report, which listed Matthew Bergeron and Leonard Floyd as out, gives them reason for concern about the matchup against the Colts. As they discuss, they also share some thoughts on the importance of the Falcons being able to stop the Colts run game, not allowing Jonathan Taylor to get any momentum.
This conversation revolves around the thrilling escapades of the Green Hornet, a masked vigilante who battles crime and corruption. The narrative unfolds with the FBI's plan to capture the Green Hornet by setting a trap during a high-profile party. As the plot thickens, the characters navigate through deception, heists, and unexpected twists, culminating in a dramatic confrontation that reveals the true nature of the jewels at stake and the intricate web of crime surrounding them.The story begins with a clandestine meeting between Britt Reid and a mysterious visitor from the Department of Justice. Tasked with the mission to trap the elusive Green Hornet, Reid finds himself embroiled in a web of espionage. The plan? A lavish party hosted by Mrs. Melvin Bradley, where the glittering jewels serve as bait for the Hornet.A Twist of Fate: As the night unfolds, the party becomes a stage for deception. The real jewels, hidden away, are swapped with paste imitations. Yet, the Green Hornet, always a step ahead, turns the tables on his pursuers. In a daring heist, he not only outsmarts the spies but also secures a fortune for the USO, turning enemy funds into a force for good.The Green Hornet's adventures remind us of the thin line between heroism and villainy. As the city sleeps, Britt Reid and his loyal valet, Kato, prepare for their next mission, ensuring that justice prevails in the shadows.Stay tuned for more thrilling episodes of the Green Hornet, where every twist and turn promises to keep you on the edge of your seat. Subscribe now to never miss an adventure!TakeawaysThe Green Hornet is a vigilante fighting against public enemies.The FBI seeks the help of a newspaper publisher to catch the Green Hornet.A party is staged to lure the Green Hornet with fake jewels.The real jewels are hidden away while the guests wear imitations.The heist involves deception and clever planning by the criminals.The Green Hornet intervenes at a critical moment during the heist.The story highlights themes of trust and betrayal among criminals.The narrative showcases the tension between law enforcement and crime.The characters are intricately connected through their schemes and plans.The resolution reveals the true value of the jewels and the consequences of the heist.Green Hornet, FBI, heist, crime, adventure, radio drama, suspense, mystery, jewels, espionage
A state lawmaker is pushing for laws to protect students from inappropriate relationships in K-12 schools. Two Minnesota women pleaded guilty Tuesday in a scheme to defraud taxpayers by overbilling Medicaid for substance abuse treatment.Minneapolis police have arrested a person suspected of throwing two Molotov cocktails into an ice cream shop. It happened at Fletcher's Ice Cream and Cafe on East Hennepin Avenue. No one was hurt.Advocates pressuring the state Board of Investment to cut financial ties to Israel staged a sit-in Tuesday at the Retirement Systems Building in St. Paul. The protest was planned for the same day as the board's quarterly meeting. The protesters refused to leave the building when it closed for the day, and several were arrested.An asphalt and aggregate products business with many locations across Minnesota says it will be closing some of those facilities by the end of the year with nearly 300 employees losing their jobs. Minnesota Paving and Materials sent a notice to the state announcing the permanent closure of 14 of its operations in the state, including quarries in Owatonna and New Ulm and an asphalt plant in Kasota. The company's notice did not offer any details on why it's closing those locations.
In a digital world saturated with questionable dating advice from self-proclaimed gurus, Dr. Max Butterfield has emerged as a powerful and refreshing voice of reason. A professor with a Ph.D. in psychology, Max never intended to become a social media star. Tasked by a literary agent to simply build a small online presence for a book deal, he accidentally tapped into a massive cultural nerve, dissecting viral relationship videos with research-backed clarity and amassing over a million followers in just a few months. His journey is a testament to the power of authentic expertise, proving that in a sea of misinformation, people are desperately searching for grounded, scientific truth to navigate the complexities of human connection. This conversation is a masterclass in the psychology of modern relationships, going far beyond surface-level tips to explore the deep undercurrents shaping how we connect today. Dr. Butterfield breaks down why the "paradox of choice" fueled by dating apps makes us treat people as disposable and how these platforms are financially incentivized to keep you single . He and Darin dive into the critical difference between initial physical attraction and the values that predict long-term happiness, the truth about "soulmates," and the foundational skills—like managing conflict, building safety through mutual disclosure, and simple kindness—that are essential for growing a healthy, lasting partnership. What You'll Learn [04:52] The Accidental Influencer: A Quest for 100 Followers That Ignited a Movement [07:19] The Danger of Expertise: Why What You Know Can Get in the Way [09:47] The Algorithm's Easter Gift: Discovering That Instagram Is a Dating App [10:54] The Trap of Absolute Statements: Why “All Men” or “All Women” Is Your First Mistake [12:58] The Tyranny of Choice: When Endless Options Make People Feel Disposable [14:48] The Business of Keeping You Single: How Dating Apps Are Built to Fail [17:54] The Lost Art of Patience: Looking to the Past to Build a Future [19:40] The Unseen Green Flags: The Power of Genuine Curiosity [25:47] The Saboteur in the Parking Lot: Confronting Your Unconscious Patterns in Love [28:47] The Death of the Village: Losing Community, Accountability, and Self-Regulation [32:24] The Great Deception: What We Say We Want vs. Who We Actually Choose [36:28] The Alchemy of Attraction: How Your Behavior Literally Changes Your Brain Chemistry [38:15] The Four Horsemen of Contempt: Why How You Argue Is Everything [40:07] The True Meaning of Respect: It's Kindness, Not Fear [43:20] The Radical Act of Honesty: Letting the Universe Sort It Out [45:47] The Sacred Exchange of Mutual Disclosure: Building Unshakeable Safety [53:24] Stupid Games, Stupid Prizes: Debunking the “Rules” That Ruin Relationships [56:22] You Don't Find a Soulmate, You Grow One [01:04:14] The Grand Misunderstanding: What Men and Women Get Wrong About Attraction [01:15:46] The Jealousy Trap: Can Men and Women Really Be Just Friends? [01:22:35] Growing Up Together: The Secret to a 23-Year Marriage That Started in College [01:27:57] The Professor's Megaphone: Sharing Truth on a Global Stage Thank You to Our Sponsors Our Place: Toxic-free, durable cookware that supports healthy cooking. Use code DARIN for 10% off at fromourplace.com. Manna Vitality: Go to mannavitality.com/ or use code DARIN20 for 20% off your order. Find More from Dr. Max Butterfield Instagram: @drmaxbutterfield Website: drmaxwellness.com Download his Long-Distance Relationship Survival Guide Find More from Darin Olien: Instagram: @darinolien Podcast: SuperLife Podcast Website: superlife.com Book: Fatal Conveniences Key Takeaway “Your hormones aren't broken — they're responding to your environment, your thoughts, and your stress. When you reconnect to safety, balance minerals, and honor rest, the body remembers how to heal itself.”
Over the weekend Trump urged Attorney General Pam Bondi to prosecute some of his political enemies, in a social-media post. The order came days after the U.S. attorney tasked with doing the same thing resigned under pressure. NBC News reports. The CDC’s advisory panel on vaccines gathered last week for a chaotic two-day meeting. Stat reporter Elaine Chen joins to discuss the changes that were made and how the board is moving away from its traditional science-backed approach. The Washington Post’s Maria Sacchetti breaks down what family separations look like in Trump’s second term, as enforcement ramps up. Plus, tens of thousands of people attended a memorial for Charlie Kirk; the U.K., Canada, and Australia formally recognized Palestine as a state, and and swimmers took part in the Chicago River's first organized open-water swim in nearly 100 years. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.
On today's P1 Podcast, we talk about how Thor's baby is almost here but it may be sooner than expected becuase his wife has tasked him with something special