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Will Smith is the creator and showrunner of the hit Apple TV spy thriller Slow Horses. Smith talks with Jesse about the show's unique blend of drama, action and comedy. He also shares how he learned from Armando Iannucci, the best in the biz, while working on Veep and The Thick of It. Also discussed: farts! And how star Gary Oldman's character Jackson Lamb uses them as a plot device.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
This week, Good Moms sit down with Tabria Majors and Mindy from The Thick Podcast and talk about evolving through different seasons of life. Mindy opens up about overcoming religious and cultural guilt to embrace her sexuality, while Tabria shares what motherhood has taught her about balance, body image, and letting go of perfection. Timestamps: (08:20) Mindy on coming out and shedding Christian and Caribbean guilt (9:00) Dating soft men and the double standard around sexuality (18:22) Making out with your friends (24:00) Tabria on postpartum, motherhood, and identity after modeling (30:34) Bad Choice of the week, setting emotional boundaries with friends (40:00) Navigating conflict within friendships (45:00) White grandma gets 3 monkeys tattooed on herself to represent her mixed-race grand children (55:23) Whorie Segment (58:00) Tarot Segment: Six of Wands (1:02:12) Affirmation: Don't stress over the things you can't control Scrub A Dub, Double Scrub, leave me the fuck alone Everything I desire, desires me ------------ Watch this episode & more on YouTube! Submit your advice questions, anonymous secrets or vent about motherhood anonymously! Submit your questions Catch up with us over at Patreon and get all our Full visual episodes, bonus content & early episode releases. Join our private Facebook group! ------------------------ Connect With Us: @GoodMoms_BadChoices @TheGoodVibeRetreat @Good.GoodMedia @WatchErica @Milah_MappSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Indie-pop band 'Lucius' joins the revelry, and they're hitting all the right notes! From their early days in Brooklyn, to bringing babies on tour, the singers reveal their secrets to staying in harmony on and off stage. Plus, a Sibling Revelry Exclusive! Listen to their new single "Thick as Thieves" HERE and NOW before they debut it to the world!Follow Lucius for tour dates and more at https://www.instagram.com/ilovelucius/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Decisions must be made We have a Patreon! What to support us? Click HERE! You can find us on Instagram (chaosenginepod) and Bluesky (chaosenginepod) You can also email us at chaosenginepod@gmail.com We have a discord now! Feel free to stop by if that interests you! The Cast: Referee: Chris Blex Blex Blex - Jake Astrodomos "Toots" Rodgers - Meescha Jedt Coinbitter - Cody Zander Cross - Tyler Check out our friends: Pretending to be People! Stories & Lies Sorry, Honey I have to Take This Tabletop Talk Wilderspace Gaming Doomed to Repeat The Great Old Ones Gaming Negative Modifier Chaos Springs Eternal The Black Flare Podcast 9mm Retirement Radio Suffer Not
In this episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses Siman 134 of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, covering the laws of building a sukkah, timed with the preparation period between Yom Kippur (September 20, 2025) and Sukkot (September 25, 2025). He emphasizes the mitzvah's spiritual significance as a divine “hug” and a fresh start post-Yom Kippur. Key points include:Sukkot's Timing and Purpose: The days between Yom Kippur and Sukkot are “free days” for preparation (building sukkahs, selecting four species), keeping one too busy to sin. Sukkot, called “Yom HaRishon” (first day), is the first opportunity for sin post-Yom Kippur, making it a time to establish new, righteous habits. Dwelling in the sukkah mirrors the Clouds of Glory that protected the Israelites in the desert, symbolizing divine protection and closeness.Halachot of Sukkah Construction (Siman 134):Halacha 1: It's a mitzvah to build the sukkah immediately after Yom Kippur, even on Erev Shabbos (e.g., September 21, 2025). Choose a clean, stable location (e.g., driveway, not mud). Everyone, even dignitaries, should personally participate in building, though the Shehechiyanu blessing is covered by the Kiddush on Sukkot's first night.Halacha 2: Beautify the sukkah with nice furnishings (e.g., tablecloths, artwork), as one would a home, to honor the mitzvah and the spiritual “guests” (Ushpizin: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, etc.). Walls must be sturdy, with at least two and a half walls, symbolizing Hashem's hug.Halacha 3–4: Schach must grow from the ground, be detached, and not be susceptible to ritual impurity (tumah). Bamboo mats or tree branches are ideal; pre-cut wood slats or utensils (e.g., ladders, shovels) are invalid. Consult a rabbi if proper schach is unavailable. Supports for schach can be tumah-susceptible items (e.g., metal) after the fact, though stringencies avoid metal entirely.Halacha 5: Schach must provide more shade than sunlight on the floor. If sunlight exceeds shade or there's a three-tefach (handbreadth) gap, the sukkah is invalid. Thick schach blocking all stars is still kosher, but if it prevents rain penetration, it's like a permanent roof and invalid.Halacha 6–7: A sukkah needs at least three walls. Invalid schach (e.g., four tefachim wide, about 16 inches) can split a three-walled sukkah, invalidating it. A space less than four amos (eight feet) from a wall is considered a “bent wall,” valid as part of the sukkah, but don't sit under it. Schach under tree branches (attached to the ground) is invalid, even if cut later, unless lifted and replaced for the sukkah's sake.Halacha 8–9: For built-in sukkahs with retractable roofs, open the roof before placing schach. A sukkah doesn't require a mezuzah if temporary, but a permanent sukkah (e.g., part of a house) does. A borrowed sukkah is valid, but a stolen one or one in a public domain is not, unless no alternative exists.Halacha 10–12: Don't cut schach from others' trees without permission. Building a sukkah during Chol HaMoed is permitted. Sukkah materials (walls, schach) are designated for the mitzvah and can't be repurposed (e.g., as a toothpick) until after Simchas Torah.Halacha 13–15: Don't step on or degrade sukkah materials post-holiday, as they were used for a mitzvah, like tzitzis. Don't engrave Torah verses on food decorations (e.g., gourds), as they'll rot, disrespecting the verses. On Erev Sukkos, avoid eating bread after midday to enter the sukkah with an appetite. Increase charity before Sukkot to enhance the mitzvah.Spiritual Insights: The sukkah represents leaving comfort zones to bond with Hashem, as the Israelites did in the desert, protected by the Clouds of Glory. Rabbi Wolbe shares a story of a community member who builds sukkahs for free, reflecting the mitzvah's joy, and his childhood memories of using tarps in Brooklyn to shield sukkahs from rain, emphasizing practical challenges and solutions.The episode concludes with a blessing for a meaningful Sukkot, encouraging listeners to embrace the holiday's spiritual renewal and closeness with Hashem, followed by an invitation to the “Ask Away” segment._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #60) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on October 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 6, 2025_____________Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! Share your questions at askaway@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at
In this episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses Siman 134 of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, covering the laws of building a sukkah, timed with the preparation period between Yom Kippur (September 20, 2025) and Sukkot (September 25, 2025). He emphasizes the mitzvah's spiritual significance as a divine “hug” and a fresh start post-Yom Kippur. Key points include:Sukkot's Timing and Purpose: The days between Yom Kippur and Sukkot are “free days” for preparation (building sukkahs, selecting four species), keeping one too busy to sin. Sukkot, called “Yom HaRishon” (first day), is the first opportunity for sin post-Yom Kippur, making it a time to establish new, righteous habits. Dwelling in the sukkah mirrors the Clouds of Glory that protected the Israelites in the desert, symbolizing divine protection and closeness.Halachot of Sukkah Construction (Siman 134):Halacha 1: It's a mitzvah to build the sukkah immediately after Yom Kippur, even on Erev Shabbos (e.g., September 21, 2025). Choose a clean, stable location (e.g., driveway, not mud). Everyone, even dignitaries, should personally participate in building, though the Shehechiyanu blessing is covered by the Kiddush on Sukkot's first night.Halacha 2: Beautify the sukkah with nice furnishings (e.g., tablecloths, artwork), as one would a home, to honor the mitzvah and the spiritual “guests” (Ushpizin: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, etc.). Walls must be sturdy, with at least two and a half walls, symbolizing Hashem's hug.Halacha 3–4: Schach must grow from the ground, be detached, and not be susceptible to ritual impurity (tumah). Bamboo mats or tree branches are ideal; pre-cut wood slats or utensils (e.g., ladders, shovels) are invalid. Consult a rabbi if proper schach is unavailable. Supports for schach can be tumah-susceptible items (e.g., metal) after the fact, though stringencies avoid metal entirely.Halacha 5: Schach must provide more shade than sunlight on the floor. If sunlight exceeds shade or there's a three-tefach (handbreadth) gap, the sukkah is invalid. Thick schach blocking all stars is still kosher, but if it prevents rain penetration, it's like a permanent roof and invalid.Halacha 6–7: A sukkah needs at least three walls. Invalid schach (e.g., four tefachim wide, about 16 inches) can split a three-walled sukkah, invalidating it. A space less than four amos (eight feet) from a wall is considered a “bent wall,” valid as part of the sukkah, but don't sit under it. Schach under tree branches (attached to the ground) is invalid, even if cut later, unless lifted and replaced for the sukkah's sake.Halacha 8–9: For built-in sukkahs with retractable roofs, open the roof before placing schach. A sukkah doesn't require a mezuzah if temporary, but a permanent sukkah (e.g., part of a house) does. A borrowed sukkah is valid, but a stolen one or one in a public domain is not, unless no alternative exists.Halacha 10–12: Don't cut schach from others' trees without permission. Building a sukkah during Chol HaMoed is permitted. Sukkah materials (walls, schach) are designated for the mitzvah and can't be repurposed (e.g., as a toothpick) until after Simchas Torah.Halacha 13–15: Don't step on or degrade sukkah materials post-holiday, as they were used for a mitzvah, like tzitzis. Don't engrave Torah verses on food decorations (e.g., gourds), as they'll rot, disrespecting the verses. On Erev Sukkos, avoid eating bread after midday to enter the sukkah with an appetite. Increase charity before Sukkot to enhance the mitzvah.Spiritual Insights: The sukkah represents leaving comfort zones to bond with Hashem, as the Israelites did in the desert, protected by the Clouds of Glory. Rabbi Wolbe shares a story of a community member who builds sukkahs for free, reflecting the mitzvah's joy, and his childhood memories of using tarps in Brooklyn to shield sukkahs from rain, emphasizing practical challenges and solutions.The episode concludes with a blessing for a meaningful Sukkot, encouraging listeners to embrace the holiday's spiritual renewal and closeness with Hashem, followed by an invitation to the “Ask Away” segment._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #60) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on October 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 6, 2025_____________Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! Share your questions at askaway@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at
Malcolm Tucker. Pet ASBOs. A law requiring everyone in Britain to carry around a plastic bag. It's been twenty years since Armando Iannucci‘s The Thick of It first brought the chaos and drama of the fictitious ‘Department of Social Affairs and Citizenship' into our lives. First aired on the BBC in 2005, the show satirised the Blair government's spin-heavy politics, with Peter Capaldi's foul-mouthed character Malcolm Tucker quickly becoming one of Britain's most unforgettable TV villains. In September 2025 Iannucci came to Alexandra Palace Theatre alongside actors from the show Peter Capaldi, Chris Addison and Rebecca Front to relive some of the funniest moments from the show, reveal behind-the-scenes stories and answer questions on whether a show like The Thick of It could ever work in today's polarised political climate and social media news cycle. --- If you'd like to become a Member and get access to all our full ad free conversations, plus all of our Members-only content, just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more. For £4.99 per month you'll also receive: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared episodes, wherever you get your podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series - 15% discount on livestreams and in-person tickets for all Intelligence Squared events ... Or Subscribe on Apple for £4.99: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series … Already a subscriber? Thank you for supporting our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations! Visit intelligencesquared.com to explore all your benefits including ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content and early access. … Subscribe to our newsletter here to hear about our latest events, discounts and much more. https://www.intelligencesquared.com/newsletter-signup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
HT2400 - The Importance of Being Thick-skinned Photography at times can be so cruel. Our best plans can evaporate in technical failure. Our precious artwork can be rejected by a monstrous editor. Ahem. The work we love like children can leave others cold. No one said the life of an artmaker would be lollipops and rainbows every day. To quote one of my favorite lines from The Princess Bride, "Life is pain. Anyone who says differently is selling something." Show your appreciation for our free weekly Podcast and our free daily Here's a Thought… with a donation Thanks!
The Steve Harvey Morning Show for Friday, October 3rd, 2025: Steve Harvey's Morning Inspiration | Show Open | Run That Prank Back - "Wedding & Funeral" | Ask The CLO | Junior Calling Steve | Would You Rather | Ask Steve | Nephew Tommy's Prank - "Law & Order" | Strawberry Letter - "Thick Thighs, Oh My" Parts 1-2 | Junior's Sports Talk | Social Media Advice | Funeral Talk | Would You RatherSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Strawberry Letter, heard on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Friday, October 3rd, 2025. Subject: "Thick Thighs, Oh My"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Malcolm Tucker. Pet ASBOs. A law requiring everyone in Britain to carry around a plastic bag. It's been twenty years since Armando Iannucci‘s The Thick of It first brought the chaos and drama of the fictitious ‘Department of Social Affairs and Citizenship' into our lives. First aired on the BBC in 2005, the show satirised the Blair government's spin-heavy politics, with Peter Capaldi's foul-mouthed character Malcolm Tucker quickly becoming one of Britain's most unforgettable TV villains. In September 2025 Iannucci came to Alexandra Palace Theatre alongside actors from the show Peter Capaldi, Chris Addison and Rebecca Front to relive some of the funniest moments from the show, reveal behind-the-scenes stories and answer questions on whether a show like The Thick of It could ever work in today's polarised political climate and social media news cycle. --- This is the first instalment of a two-part episode. If you'd like to become a Member and get access to all our full ad free conversations, plus all of our Members-only content, just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more. For £4.99 per month you'll also receive: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared episodes, wherever you get your podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series - 15% discount on livestreams and in-person tickets for all Intelligence Squared events ... Or Subscribe on Apple for £4.99: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series … Already a subscriber? Thank you for supporting our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations! Visit intelligencesquared.com to explore all your benefits including ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content and early access. … Subscribe to our newsletter here to hear about our latest events, discounts and much more. https://www.intelligencesquared.com/newsletter-signup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
New @greenpillnet pod! Kevin chats with Joe Edelman, founder of the Meaning Alignment Institute, about his Full Stack Alignment paper. They dive into why current AI alignment methods fall short, explore richer “thick” models of value, lessons from social media, and four bold moonshots for AI and institutions that support human flourishing. Links: https://meaningalignment.substack.com/p/introducing-full-stack-alignment https://meaninglabs.notion.site/The-Full-Stack-Alignment-Project-List-21cc5bada1d08016a496ca729476d970 @edelwax @meaningaligned @greenpillnet @owocki Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to Green Pill's new season and Joe Edelman 01:59 – Joe's background and the Meaning Alignment Institute 03:43 – Why alignment matters for AI and institutions 05:46 – Lessons from social media and the attention economy 09:06 – Critique of shallow AI alignment approaches (RLHF, values-as-text) 13:20 – Thick models of value: going deeper than abstract ideals 15:11 – Full stack alignment across models, metrics, and institutions 17:00 – Reconciling values with capitalist incentive structures 19:17 – Avoiding dystopian economies and building value-driven markets 21:32 – Four moonshots: super negotiators, public resource regulators, market intermediaries, value stewardship agents 27:32 – Intermediaries vs. value stewardship agents explained 29:09 – How builders and academics can get involved in full stack alignment projects 31:10 – Why cross-institutional collaboration is critical 32:46 – Joe's vision of the world in 10 years with full stack alignment 34:51 – Food system analogy: from “sugar” to nourishing AI 36:40 – Long-term vs. short-term incentives in markets 38:25 – Hopeful outlook: building integrity into AI and institutions 39:04 – Closing remarks and links to Joe's work
Piping hot and hilarious tea
Are you new to SFF Addicts podcast? If so, let our three co-hosts—Adrian M. Gibson, M.J. Kuhn & Greta Kelly—introduce you to the show and explore what we can offer to both sci-fi/fantasy readers and writers. Plus, you can hear a teaser of a bunch of the amazing guests we've had on in the past. Thanks for tuning in and for your support. We hope you enjoy SFF Addicts!EMAIL US WITH YOUR QUESTIONS & COMMENTS:sffaddictspod@gmail.comSUPPORT THE SHOW:- Patreon (for exclusive bonus episodes, author readings, book giveaways and more)- Subscribe to the FanFiAddict YouTube channel, where this and every other episode of the show is available in full video- Rate and review SFF Addicts on your platform of choice, and share us with your friendsABOUT OUR HOSTS:Adrian M. Gibson is the author of Mushroom Blues.Find Adrian on Instagram and his personal website.M.J. Kuhn is the author of Among Thieves and Thick as Thieves.Find M.J. on Instagram and her personal website.Greta Kelly is the author of The Queen of Days, The Frozen Crown and The Seventh Queen.Find Greta on Instagram and her personal website.FOLLOW SFF ADDICTS:FanFiAddict Book BlogLinktreeMUSIC:Outro: “Galactic Synthwave” by Divion
Miranda Winters grew up in Providence, RI - but she's all in on Chicago. She plays guitar and sings in Chicago noise rock quartet Melkbelly (along with her husband, Bart Winters). Her most recent project was the all-female band Mandy wich released the LP Lawn Girl last year. Look for Melkbelly out on tour in the next few months.Time stamps:1:30: What are some of your earliest musical memories?3:50: What were some of your gateway bands?5:30: At what age did you decide you wanted to be a musician?7: How and when do you get to Chicago?8:10: What were your first impressions of Chicago?10:12: How long did it take you to find your Chicago music community?15: What's it like working creatively with your husband?18: Talk to us about Mandy20: What is your creative process like?23: Is Melkbelly working on anything right now?27: What was it like being inside the hurricane as people were saying Melkbelly was blowing up at SXSW?30: Did you cry the first time you went to Electrical Audio?31:30: Song destroyers - how did you come upon that process? how does that process work?34: Has the reaction to the Mandy record surprised you at all?37:30: The two most recent Melkbelly songs are very different, how did these songs come to be?39: How long does the process usually take with recording?40:45: What makes the Chicago scene so special?43:35: Favorite place to play shows/see shows in Chicago?47:20: Thick or thin crust pizza fan?50:45: What are some Chicago bands that are near and dear to your heart?52:30: What is your go to cheap drink?54: What are you excited about coming up over the next couple of months?
In this friendly episode of Homeopathy 247, Mary chats with Isobel Fothergill about the much-used Pulsatilla—a polycrest that often helps when emotions, reassurance, and “changeable” symptoms are front and center. Isobel shows how homeopathy looks at the person behind the symptoms, weaving together personality, triggers, and physical signs to find a good match. How to Recognise a “Pulsatilla” Person Pulsatilla often suits gentle, shy, affectionate people who like company and reassurance. Children may cling at the school gate; adults feel better with a hand to hold. They love fresh air and often feel worse in warm, stuffy rooms. In homoeopathy, these character cues can be as important as physical symptoms. Key Physical Clues Isobel highlights several pointers: Thick yellow-green mucus in colds, coughs, or sinusitis Recurring earaches in childhood Eye issues such as styes, red/itchy eyes, and hay fever with eye symptoms Chilliness, especially hands and fingers, yet a strong desire to be outdoors Changeability: symptoms shift location, timing, or intensity Pulsatilla is also useful during life transitions—starting school, puberty, pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause—when bodies and emotions are in flux. Emotional Themes (and a Quick Contrast) Pulsatilla people are tender and easily moved to tears, but can be quickly cheered up. They may “people-please” to get comfort and attention—not in a harsh way, but from a real need to feel supported. Compared with more independent types (like Sepia), Pulsatilla prefers closeness, care, and community. This is where homoeopathy can feel very personal. Two Short Case Stories Teen with ongoing nausea after bad meat: needed reassurance, felt better in open air, had a forehead headache. A higher potency Pulsatilla briefly intensified symptoms, then the nausea resolved. Woman with variable hot flushes: night sweats, tearfulness pre-period, and a strong need for support. A low daily potency reduced frequency and intensity and improved mood. Why “Changeable” Matters If your symptoms are inconsistent—time, place, sensation—don't ignore it. In homeopathy, changeability itself is a guiding clue that can point to Pulsatilla over other remedies. Practical Pointers Potency depends on the picture: higher for clear emotional matches; lower, more frequent doses for longer-running physical issues. When in doubt—especially for chronic concerns—consult a professional. Important links mentioned in this episode: Read our blog post about Pulsatilla: https://homeopathy247.com/pulsatilla-a-remedy-for-change/ Read more about Isobel Fothergill: https://homeopathy247.com/professional-homeopaths-team/isobel-fothergill/ Visit Isobel's website: https://homeopathywithisobel.co.uk/ Subscribe to our YouTube channel and be updated with our latest episodes. You can also subscribe to our podcast channels available on your favourite podcast listening app below: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/homeopathy247-podcast/id1628767810 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/39rjXAReQ33hGceW1E50dk Follow us on our social media accounts: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeopathy247 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeopathy247 You can also visit our website at https://homeopathy247.com/
Join co-hosts Adrian M. Gibson, M.J. Kuhn and Greta Kelly as they delve into a writing masterclass on How to Write Battle Scenes with author Anna Smith Spark. During the episode, Anna arms herself for war (and writing), exploring why we love battle scenes, how to study and analyze historical battles, the immersion/cinematography of a battle, laying the seeds of conflict, approaches to warfare across cultures, setting and styles of battle, scale and shifting perspectives, realism and the aftermath of battle, heightening emotional resonance, war councils, expectations, foreshadowing and more.NOTE: This is part two of a two-part chat with Anna. Click here to check out part one.OUR SPONSOR:The Malevolent Eight by Sebastien de Castell is the riotous dark fantasy sequel to The Malevolent Seven. Prepare for a whirlwind of dark magic, irreverent humor and relentless action in The Malevolent Eight.Now available in hardcover, along with eBook and audiobook. Buy your copy HERE.SHOUTOUT TO THE 'SFF ADDICT' PATRONS:Thank you Ian Patterson, Herman Steuernagel, David Hopkins, Luke F. Shepherd, Christopher R. DuBois, Luke A. Winch and GavinGuile for supporting us on Patreon at $10+.SUPPORT THE SHOW:- Patreon (for exclusive bonus episodes, author readings and more)- Rate and review SFF Addicts on your platform of choice, and share us with your friendsEMAIL US WITH YOUR QUESTIONS & COMMENTS:sffaddictspod@gmail.comABOUT OUR GUEST:Anna Smith Spark is the author of the Empires of Dust series, A Woman of the Sword and more. Her latest releases are A Sword of Gold and Ruin and Anderson Versus Death.Find Anna on Instagram, Amazon and her personal website.ABOUT OUR HOSTS:Adrian M. Gibson is the author of Mushroom Blues.Find Adrian on Instagram and his personal website.M.J. Kuhn is the author of Among Thieves and Thick as Thieves.Find M.J. on Instagram and her personal website.Greta Kelly is the author of The Queen of Days, The Frozen Crown and The Seventh Queen.Find Greta on Instagram and her personal website.FOLLOW SFF ADDICTS:LinktreeMUSIC:Intro: "Into The Grid" by MellauSFXOutro: “Galactic Synthwave” by DivionAD ATTRIBUTION:- Music: "Sinister Slink" by SCOREWIZARDS- Video b-roll: Envato Elements
Friendship, Tough Times, and New Beginnings: Beth and Tammy's JourneyIn this episode of the Samantha Parker Show, returning guest Beth brings her friend Tammy to discuss their 14-year friendship and their upcoming collaborative podcast, 'What Could Possibly Go Wrong.' They delve into their personal journeys, including Beth's battle with alcoholism, the loss of careers, Lyme disease, and Tammy's heartbreaking experience of losing her son. They also share funny anecdotes, their involvement in each other's lives, and the support system that has kept them strong. The conversation touches on their plans for the new podcast, which will feature their life stories, wisdom, and humor, providing both laughter and lessons for listeners.00:00 Welcome and Guest Introductions00:46 Beth and Tammy's New Podcast01:37 Funny Stories and Friendship03:35 Beth's Sobriety Journey05:24 Tammy's Personal Losses07:00 Beth's Business Ventures16:43 Beth's Health Struggles20:58 Tammy's Tragic Loss23:51 Celebrating Success and Friendship25:47 A Terrifying Experience26:33 The Impact of Recent Events27:07 Free Speech and Its Consequences28:01 Community Reactions and Support29:29 Personal Reflections and Grief31:23 Finding Purpose After Loss36:15 Launching a New Venture37:27 The Journey of Writing and Publishing39:05 Adapting to New Roles41:31 Final Thoughts and Future PlansBeth McDonough: Youtube: https://youtube.com/@bethmcdonough?si=_lpkHYRoKzszTz-oInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bemcdn?igsh=MTB6azI0amJpaHJmMw==Tammy Moon: https://www.instagram.com/tammy.moon.m?igsh=MW1iNmxkYzlyb3J4Yw== Step into Your Sober Era! Are you ready to embrace a life of clarity and empowerment? ✨ Check out Sam's Sober Club on Substack for journals, tips, community and more [Subscribe Now ➔] Sam's Sober CLUB | Samantha Parker | Substack Want to Work with The Samantha Parker for Content Management CLICK HERE Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthaparkershow YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@thesamanthaparker Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thesamanthaparker/
This week, Mal sits down with artist and host of The Thick podcast - Mindy, who just watched "The L Word" for the first time. Mindy gives us her hot takes on the show, and the two reflect on how sapphic representation has evolved since. This discussion explores where it's been, where it's headed, and what still needs to change for queer womxn to feel fully seen. Follow the guest Mindy @damnmindy, follow Mal @malglowenke and follow the podcast @madeitout
The crew kicks off the episode by highlighting their players of the week, shouting out impressive performances from guys like Jordan Davis, Baker Mayfield, and Marcus Mariota.The get into the surprising results from Week 3 in the NFL, where Super Bowl contenders like the Bills and Packers showed some unexpected struggles. There was a lot of discussion around the dominant Colts, the surprisingly competent Giants under Daniel Jones, and a deep dive into the Eagles-Rams game, where they praised the Rams' talent but criticized Sean McVay's Red Zone play-calling, which ultimately allowed Jalen Hurts and A.J. Brown to take over in the second half.The focus then shifts to the college football landscape, with a preview of some massive upcoming SEC matchups, including a highly anticipated Georgia vs. Alabama game. They make their weekly betting picks for both college and the NFL, after recapping last week's mixed results. You'll also get a detailed breakdown of the upcoming Ryder Cup (led by Pope) analyzing the strengths of a veteran European team against an American squad with home-field advantage at the notoriously tough Bethpage Black.They give a "lasso" to the news that the Washington Commanders have secured a deal to build a new stadium and return to D.C., and "pour one out" in a heartfelt tribute to a late Philadelphia Flyers hockey legend, Then some quick hits on the MLB playoff race, a few final thoughts on the NFL weekend, and some breaking NBA injury news.
Join co-hosts Adrian M. Gibson and Greta Kelly as they chat with author Anna Smith Spark about her TWO new novels A Sword of Gold and Ruin and Anderson Versus Death, the 2000 AD/Judge Dredd universe and dystopian prescience, the pursuit and joys of storytelling, the appeal of grimdark, the current state of the grimdark genre (and responses to it), the ups and downs of publishing, writing what you're passionate about, folkloric horror, autism, dyspraxia and much more.NOTE: This is part one of a two-part chat with Anna. Stayed tuned next week for her writing masterclass on How to Write Battle Scenes.OUR SPONSOR:The Malevolent Eight by Sebastien de Castell is the riotous dark fantasy sequel to The Malevolent Seven. Prepare for a whirlwind of dark magic, irreverent humor and relentless action in The Malevolent Eight.Now available in hardcover, along with eBook and audiobook. Buy your copy HERE.SHOUTOUT TO THE 'SFF ADDICT' PATRONS:Thank you Ian Patterson, Nicholas W. Fuller, Herman Steuernagel, David Hopkins, Luke F. Shepherd, Christopher R. DuBois, Luke A. Winch and GavinGuile for supporting us on Patreon at $10+.SUPPORT THE SHOW:- Patreon (for exclusive bonus episodes, author readings and more)- Rate and review SFF Addicts on your platform of choice, and share us with your friendsEMAIL US WITH YOUR QUESTIONS & COMMENTS:sffaddictspod@gmail.comABOUT OUR GUEST:Anna Smith Spark is the author of the Empires of Dust series, A Woman of the Sword and more. Her latest releases are A Sword of Gold and Ruin and Anderson Versus Death.Find Anna on Instagram, Amazon and her personal website.ABOUT OUR HOSTS:Adrian M. Gibson is the author of Mushroom Blues.Find Adrian on Instagram and his personal website.M.J. Kuhn is the author of Among Thieves and Thick as Thieves.Find M.J. on Instagram and her personal website.Greta Kelly is the author of The Queen of Days, The Frozen Crown and The Seventh Queen.Find Greta on Instagram and her personal website.FOLLOW SFF ADDICTS:LinktreeMUSIC:Intro: "Into The Grid" by MellauSFXOutro: “Galactic Synthwave” by DivionAD ATTRIBUTION:- Music: "Sinister Slink" by SCOREWIZARDS- Video b-roll: Envato Elements
The Plan-B Show with Brock & Kiki - September 23rd 2025See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Recap of the Las Vegas Raiders' 24-41, Week 3 loss to the Washington Commanders. Reviewing the Philadelphia Eagles' 33-26 comeback victory over the Los Angeles Rams. Recap of the Chicago Bears' 31-14, Week 3 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. Live from The Front Yard inside Ellis Island Casino, host of The Three Knockdown Rule podcast, Steve Kim joins Cofield & Company to discuss the #2 Miami Hurricanes' 26-7 victory over the Florida Gators, preview #6 Oregon Ducks' Week 5 match up against #3 Penn State, and give his thoughts on the viral video of Bill Belichick on the sideline before UNC's Week 3 match up against UCF talking with his girlfriend, Jordan Hudson.
Stretchy definitions of ‘Nationalism' can be a useful political tool, says Nick Spencer, senior fellow at Theos Think Tank. People can give a ‘thin' definition while their actions suggest something ‘thicker' and more like 19th century definitions. But all Christians want their country run according to Christian values, and no government can avoid having a coercive dimension. Nick gives us a vision of Christian engagement in politics that navigates through the tricky waters of coercion vs. persuasion and offers some much-needed wisdom in the conversation.
Pucks with Haggs host Joe Haggerty has the New England Hockey Journal's Mark Divver on as a guest as they discuss rookie camp, the start of NHL camp for Boston and how they expect it all to play out. Pucks with Haggs is Powered by
This week on Pour Minds, Lex P and Drea Nicole dive into the thick of it—literally. From vodka and beans bloat to shelf booty rumors, the ladies get transparent about the pressures of being “too thick,” the internet’s obsession with their bodies, and why confidence—not curves—is what really intimidates people. The convo goes all the way there: body comments that cross the line, why surgery still can’t outwork good genetics, and whether Black women ever truly get credit for being the original aesthetic. They also swap hilarious sidebars about chicken fried steak, giblet gravy, and how social media turned barbershop talk into worldwide debates. Pull up a glass of Taylor Port and tune in for unfiltered laughs, spicy debates, and a reminder that however you show up—thick, slim, natural, or enhanced—it’s all about owning your body for you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Herbs for THICK BLOOD study shows it does LOLBelow is an organized list of herbs used traditionally or in herbal/integrative practice for various blood-related purposes. Blood builders / iron-support (help hemoglobin, anemia)Nettle nutritive; high in iron, vitamins. Forms: infusion, tincture, dried leaf. Safety: may interact with antihypertensives, diuretics; can cause allergic reactions.Yellow dock (Rumex crispus) — tonic, mild laxative; traditionally used to increase iron absorption. Forms: tincture, decoction.Dandelion leaf & root nutritive, supports liver (indirectly aids iron metabolism). Forms: infusion, tincture. Safety: may interact with diuretics; allergy possible.Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) — nutritive, mineral-rich. Forms: infusion, capsules. Safety: not for autoimmune disease; may contain L-canavanine.Yellow dock + nettle formulas commonly used for iron-deficiency anemia.Blood tonics / nutritive herbs (strengthen and nourish blood)Red raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus) — nutritive uterine and blood tonic. Forms: infusion. Safety: generally safe; avoid excessive use in pregnancy unless advised.Moringa (Moringa oleifera) — nutrient-dense, supports hematopoiesis. Forms: powder, capsules. Safety: avoid high doses if pregnant.Beetroot; supports nitric oxide, blood flow, and hemoglobin. Forms: juice, powder. Safety: may lower blood pressure; can cause beeturia.Blood builders with vitamin/mineral supportSpirulina (Arthrospira platensis) rich in iron and B12 analogs; supports red cell production.Wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum) nutrient-rich green supporting blood health. Forms: juice, powder. Circulatory stimulants / improve blood flowGinkgo (Ginkgo biloba) enhances peripheral circulation, microcirculation.Safety: increases bleeding risk; avoid with anticoagulants.Cayenne / chili (Capsicum spp.) vasodilator, stimulates circulation. Forms: tincture, powder, topical. Safety: irritant; avoid with ulcers.Ginger (Zingiber officinale) — improves circulation, anti-inflammatory. Forms: tea, tincture. Safety: may increase bleeding risk in high doses.Garlic (Allium sativum) — antiplatelet, improves circulation and lipid profile. Forms: raw, aged extract. Safety: increases bleeding risk; interact with anticoagulants.Blood cleansers / detoxifiers (traditional use for "purifying blood")Burdock root (Arctium lappa) — blood purifier, hepatic support. Forms: decoction, tincture. Safety: possible allergic reactions; avoid if on diuretics without guidance.Red clover (Trifolium pratense) — traditional blood purifier, phytoestrogenic. Forms: infusion, tincture. Safety: avoid with estrogen-sensitive conditions; may interact with anticoagulants.Cleavers (Galium aparine) — lymphatic/blood cleanser; diuretic. Forms: infusion, tincture. Safety: generally mild; avoid excessive use.Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) — liver-protective, supports detox pathways. Forms: standardized silymarin extract. Safety: generally well tolerated; possible GI upset.Hemostatics / stop bleeding (astringent, styptic)Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) — styptic and wound-healing; used topically and internally for mild bleeding. Forms: infusion, tincture, poultice. Safety: possible photosensitivity and allergic reactions.Plantain (Plantago major) — astringent, topical for cuts and stops bleeding. Forms: poultice, infusion. Safety: generally safe.Anticoagulant / antiplatelet herbs (reduce clotting risk — use cautiously)Turmeric / curcumin (Curcuma longa) — antiplatelet, anti-inflammatory. Willow bark (Salix spp.) Herbs supporting menstruation regulating mensesAngelica / Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) traditional blood tonic for women; may increase circulation and regulate menses.Lymphatic / supportive herbs (indirect blood benefits)Echinacea (Echinacea spp.) immunemodulating, supports lymph and circulation. Forms: tincture, capsules. Safety: short-term use; possible allergy.Blackstrap molasses (food, not herb) traditional iron source for anemia.
www.verywisealternatives.com STOP Suffering in silenceHerbalist Viola COLON Queen CARES
Northern Mockingbirds can learn to mimic the sounds of just about any bird. They mimic to show off, not to deceive. But this Thick-billed Euphonia, a tiny songbird in South America, employs what scientists call “deceitful mimicry.” When frightened by a predator near its nest, a Thick-billed Euphonia imitates the alarm calls of other birds nesting nearby. This stirs them into action as they rush in to harass the predator. The euphonia, meanwhile, sits tight while others do the dirty work.¡Escuche este episodio en español aquí!More info and transcript at BirdNote.org.Want more BirdNote? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Sign up for BirdNote+ to get ad-free listening and other perks. BirdNote is a nonprofit. Your tax-deductible gift makes these shows possible. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
(Spirit Rock Meditation Center) We begin with about 7-8 minutes of developing stability of attention and less distraction, through concentration practice or some other practice. We then explore several aspects of how we "construct" experience. We look at impermanence in several ways, noticing the arising, staying and changing, and passing away with (1) the breath, (2) body sensations, (3) sounds, and (4) the open flow of experience (about 3 minutes). Then there is a period of mindfulness practice with the additional instruction of looking out for a moderate or strong sense of self. We close with a short period of a heart practice such as lovingkindness or compassion.
What is the best burger in St. Louis? It’s a question that co-hosts George and Cheryl get asked all the time, and one that is nearly impossible to answer if you consider the number of outstanding choices throughout the metro area. In this episode, they’ll come one step closer to tackling this question by exploring the city’s thick burgers, sharing their love of tried and true classics while uncovering some unexpected gems in unlikely places. Tune in to see their number one picks and whether or not your favorite makes the cut. This episode is sponsored by The Magic House and supported by St. Louis Supper Club. Opening September 20, discover Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum: The Exhibit, based on the hit PBS KIDS® series. Also opening September 20—Hero Quest!—a scavenger hunt where kids discover diverse historical heroes and the hero within themselves. Learn more at magichouse.org. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing! Have an idea for a future Arch Eats episode? Send your thoughts or feedback by emailing podcasts@stlmag.com. Hungry for more? Subscribe to our Dining newsletters for the freshest coverage on the local restaurant and culinary scene. And follow George (@georgemahe) and SLM on Instagram (@stlouismag). Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Contact Lauren Leppert at lleppert@stlmag.com. Mentioned in this episode: Songbird, 4476 Chouteau, The Grove, 314-781-4344.Sugarwitch, 7726 Virginia, Patch, 314-234-0042.Basso, Two LocationsSingers Ice Cream, 2478 Taylor, Wildwood, 636-422-1030.5 Star Burgers, 8125 Maryland, Clayton, 314-720-4350.O’Connell’s Pub, 4652 Shaw, Shaw, 314-773-6600.Blueberry Hill, 6504 Delmar, Delmar Loop, 314-727-4444.Truffles, 9202 Clayton, Ladue, 314-567-9100.Tucker’s Place, Multiple LocationsTwisted Tree Steakhouse, 10701 Watson, Sunset Hills, 314-394-3366.Stacked Burger Bar, 7637 Ivory, Carondelet, 314-544-4900.Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Two locationsThe Country Club Bar & Grill, 288 Lamp & Lantern Vlg, Chesterfield, 636-256-7201.Marcella’s Mia Sorella, 14426 Clayton, Ballwin, MO, 636-333-1015.Wright’s Tavern, 7624 Wydown, Clayton, 314-390-1466.Annie Gunn’s, 16806 Chesterfield Airport, Chesterfield, 636-532-7684. You may also enjoy these SLM articles: The best burgers in St. Louis More episode of Arch Eats See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dharma Seed - dharmaseed.org: dharma talks and meditation instruction
(Spirit Rock Meditation Center) We begin with about 7-8 minutes of developing stability of attention and less distraction, through concentration practice or some other practice. We then explore several aspects of how we "construct" experience. We look at impermanence in several ways, noticing the arising, staying and changing, and passing away with (1) the breath, (2) body sensations, (3) sounds, and (4) the open flow of experience (about 3 minutes). Then there is a period of mindfulness practice with the additional instruction of looking out for a moderate or strong sense of self. We close with a short period of a heart practice such as lovingkindness or compassion.
Spirit Rock Meditation Center: dharma talks and meditation instruction
(Spirit Rock Meditation Center) We begin with about 7-8 minutes of developing stability of attention and less distraction, through concentration practice or some other practice. We then explore several aspects of how we "construct" experience. We look at impermanence in several ways, noticing the arising, staying and changing, and passing away with (1) the breath, (2) body sensations, (3) sounds, and (4) the open flow of experience (about 3 minutes). Then there is a period of mindfulness practice with the additional instruction of looking out for a moderate or strong sense of self. We close with a short period of a heart practice such as lovingkindness or compassion.
It's Whitening Wednesday! ✨ Cozy season is here
After sin entered mankind's heart, God made it a point of gathering His people back to Him to experience His presence. We see this with Moses delivering the people out of Egypt and establishing the Tabernacle, and later with Solomon's Temple. In this series, we will explore the many ways that we can experience the presence of God.Mentions: https://www.youtube.com/@RealCharlieKirkFaithLife Christian Ministries:Download our Free App:https://get.theapp.co/hghqPodcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/faithlife-christian-ministries/id1606442323Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/faithlifecmInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/faithlifecm?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==X:https://x.com/faithlifecmTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@faithlifecm?_t=ZT-8wIjieGeyOk&_r=1Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/faithlife-christian-ministries-82ab77191/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@FaithLifeChristianMinistriesWebsite:https://faithlifecm.comDonate: https://subsplash.com/u/faithlifechristianminist/giveTable Talk with Yvette Gallinar:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/yvette_gallinar/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/yvettegallinarTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@tabletalkwithyvette?_t=ZT-8wIjgUR1eJ8&_r=1Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/table-talk-with-yvette-gallinar/id1729036339Rumble:https://rumble.com/user/tabletalkwithyvettegallinarX:https://x.com/YvettegallinarYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@tabletalkwithyvettegallinar
Join co-hosts Adrian M. Gibson, M.J. Kuhn and Greta Kelly for this special episode of SFF Addicts podcast recorded LIVE at Seattle Worldcon 2025, where they discuss "The Shifting Landscape of Epic Fantasy" with guest authors George R.R. Martin, Robin Hobb, Brandon Sanderson, Rebecca Roanhorse and Ryan Cahill. During this epic two-hour conversation, they delve into a (brief) history of epic fantasy, the monolith of Tolkien and LotR, approaches to epic fantasy worldbuilding, research and immersion, magic systems as a tool for storytelling, epic fantasy film/TV adaptations, breaking into epic fantasy publishing, self-publishing and crowdfunding, finding success in the modern publishing landscape and more.This panel was organized/presented in collaboration with Dragonsteel Books. As well, a massive thank you to the amazing Dragonsteel and Worldcon tech teams for recording the panel.SHOUTOUT TO THE 'SFF ADDICT' PATRONS:Thank you Ian Patterson, Nicholas W. Fuller, Herman Steuernagel, David Hopkins, Luke F. Shepherd, Christopher R. DuBois, Luke A. Winch and GavinGuile for supporting us on Patreon at $10+.SUPPORT THE SHOW:- Patreon (for exclusive bonus episodes, author readings and more)- Rate and review SFF Addicts on your platform of choice, and share us with your friendsEMAIL US WITH YOUR QUESTIONS & COMMENTS:sffaddictspod@gmail.comABOUT OUR HOSTS:Adrian M. Gibson is the author of Mushroom Blues.Find Adrian on Instagram and his personal website.M.J. Kuhn is the author of Among Thieves and Thick as Thieves.Find M.J. on Instagram and her personal website.Greta Kelly is the author of The Queen of Days, The Frozen Crown and The Seventh Queen.Find Greta on Instagram and her personal website.FOLLOW SFF ADDICTS:LinktreeMUSIC:Intro: "Into The Grid" by MellauSFXOutro: “Galactic Synthwave” by Divion
Last time we spoke about the beginning of the battle of Nanjing. As the relentless tide of war approached Nanjing in December 1937, fear gripped its residents. As atrocities unfolded in the countryside, civilians flocked toward safety zones, desperate for refuge. Under the command of General Tang Shengzhi, the Chinese forces prepared for a fierce defense, determined to hold their ground against the technologically superior invaders. Despite heavy losses and internal strife, hopes flickered among the defenders, fueled by the valor of their troops. Key positions like Old Tiger's Cave became battlegrounds, exemplifying the fierce resistance against the Japanese advance. On December 9, as artillery fire enveloped the city, a battle for the Gate of Enlightenment commenced. Both sides suffered grievously, with the Chinese soldiers fighting to the last, unwilling to yield an inch of their soil. Each assault from Japan met with relentless counterattacks, turning Nanjing into a symbol of perseverance amidst impending doom, as the siege marked a critical chapter in the conflict, foreshadowing the brutal events that would follow. #167 The Battle of Nanjing Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. By mid-December, the landscape surrounding Nanjing was eerily quiet. The Japanese Army marched through what seemed to be desolate fields and mountains, but they were not truly empty. Civilians were scarce, with most having fled, but a few remained in their homes, hiding in cellars and barns, clinging to the hope that the war would bypass them. Meanwhile, thousands of Chinese soldiers, left behind and unable to keep pace with their units, still posed a significant danger to the Japanese forces. The Japanese Army had not truly conquered the territory east and south of Nanjing; they had merely passed through. Mopping-up operations became a top priority. Soldiers from the 16th Infantry Division, stationed near Purple Mountain, spent early December conducting these missions far from the city's walls. “Chinese stragglers may be hiding in this area, and they must be flushed out. Any small structure of no strategic value to the Japanese Army must be burned!” This command rang out to the division's soldiers as they spread across the countryside around Unicorn Gate. Soon, isolated fires began to illuminate the horizon, one for each home. Soldiers from the 9th Infantry Division, who were not directly engaged in combat south of the Gate of Enlightenment, were also conducting similar mopping-up operations. On December 11 at noon, one squad received orders to investigate a suspicious farm building. Although it had been searched previously, movement inside prompted renewed caution. The Japanese entered carefully, moving from room to room. In the basement, they discovered eight Chinese soldiers who offered no resistance, immediately raising their hands in surrender. Bound together, they were brought outside. Using a few Chinese words supplemented by sign language, the Japanese gathered that the Chinese had been in the vicinity where one of their comrades had been killed days earlier. Unanimously, they decided the prisoners should be executed in front of their comrade's grave. Some of the older soldiers hesitated, reluctant to partake in the killings, leaving it to the younger ones to carry out the order. Soon, eight headless bodies lay sprawled before a solitary Japanese grave. On the morning of December 11, the first soldiers of the 6th Japanese Infantry Division finally spotted the distant city wall of Nanjing. They had been engaged in fierce combat for nearly two days, attempting to dislodge the tenacious defenders of the Yuhuatai plateau, the elite soldiers of the 88th Division. In a desperate bid to maintain their foothold on Yuhuatai, the 88th Division deployed its reserved 528th Regiment along with a battalion of engineers. Despite their efforts, the regiment's ranks had been depleted, filled with inexperienced recruits, and their leadership nearly obliterated, limiting their effectiveness. Under the relentless assaults from the Japanese forces, their defenses began to falter almost immediately. Faced with the stiff resistance at the Gate of Enlightenment, the Japanese shifted their focus to the Chinese Gate on December 11. Japanese aircraft were summoned for tactical air support, forcing the 88th Division's defenders to retreat behind the wall. This withdrawal occurred swiftly and somewhat chaotically, allowing the Japanese to pursue closely. Before the Chinese could regroup, 300 Japanese soldiers had breached the wall. Only the mobilization of all available forces enabled the Chinese to push the attackers back outside. Meanwhile, the left flank of the 88th Division, stationed east of Chinese Gate, remained outside the wall. Here, they clashed with elements of the 9th Japanese Division but faced intense pressure and were compelled to fall back. By the end of the day, the Chinese division had shortened its defensive line, regrouping in front of the city wall. Plans for a nighttime counterattack were ultimately abandoned, as it became clear that the division's soldiers were too fatigued to mount an effective offensive. Overall, it proved to be a successful day for the Japanese 10th Army. Further south, the Kunisaki Detachment successfully crossed the Yangtze River at Cihu village, beginning their advance toward Pukou. Its special amphibious training made the detachment ideally suited for the operation, but its limited numbers, essentially a reinforced infantry regiment, raised concerns at field headquarters about whether it could accomplish the task alone. Prince Asaka proposed transporting part of the 13th Division across the Yangtze further north to sever the railway connecting Tianjin to Pukou, cutting off a potential retreat route for Chinese forces that had escaped Nanjing. On December 11, Japanese artillery shells rained down relentlessly, targeting both the interior and exterior of Nanjing's city walls. Administrators of the Safety Zone were alarmed to witness several shells landing perilously close to its southern edge. In a bid to provide some semblance of security, American and foreign flags were raised around the zone's perimeter, though their protective influence against artillery fire from miles away was negligible. The leaders of the Safety Zone faced an unexpected dilemma: how to handle lawbreakers with the city courts now out of operation. That day, they encountered a thief caught in the act. As Rabe noted in his diary “We sentence the thief to death, then pardon him and reduce his punishment to 24 hours in jail, and ultimately, due to the absence of a jail, we simply let him go”. Refugees continued to pour in, with a total of 850 having found shelter at Ginling College. Vautrin and her colleagues began to feel that their initial estimate of 2,700 women and children seeking refuge on the campus was overly optimistic. They were soon proven wrong. On the banks of the Yangtze River, hundreds of injured soldiers and civilians were lining up to be ferried across to Pukou, where trains awaited to transport them further inland and away from danger. Many had been waiting for days without food. While ferries made continuous trips across the river to rescue as many as possible, the process was painfully slow. As of late December 10, approximately 1,500 wounded civilians remained stranded on the south bank of the Yangtze. The Japanese forces were confronted by a fiercely determined enemy composed largely of young soldiers from the Training Division. These soldiers had the advantage of having been stationed near Purple Mountain for several years, making them familiar with the terrain. Additionally, they were part of an elite unit, groomed not just in equipment and training but also instilled with a sense of nationalism rooted in Chiang Kai-shek's ideology. Li Xikai, the commander of the division's 3rd Regiment, had set up his command post directly in the path of the primary Japanese advance, yet his regiment continued to resist. Despite the fierce resistance, the Japanese gradually gained control over the Purple Mountain area. General Nakajima Kesago, commander of the 16th Division, visited an artillery observation post early in the day and was pleased to receive reports that his troops had captured two peaks of Purple Mountain and were poised to take the main peak. Yet there loomed a problem on Nakajima's right flank. A widening gap was emerging between the 16th Division and the 13th Division, which had advanced along the southern bank of the Yangtze. There was a risk that Chinese forces could escape through this lightly guarded area. The 13th Division was stationed in the strategically important river port city of Zhenjiang, preparing to cross the Yangtze. The Central China Area Army ordered the 13th Division to mobilize three infantry battalions and one artillery battalion. This new formation, known as the Yamada Detachment after its commander, Yamada Senji, was tasked with remaining on the Yangtze's south bank and advancing westward to capture two Chinese fortresses on the river: Mt. Wulong and Mt. Mufu. This redeployment alleviated concerns about the gap, allowing the 16th Division to focus on the city wall. As the sun dipped towards the horizon, one Captain Akao Junzo prepared for what he believed would be his final assault. He had been ordered to seize a hill northeast of Sun Yat-sen Gate that overlooked the city entrance. His commander told him “The attack on Nanjing will likely be the last battle of this war, and I hope your company can be at the front when the enemy's lines are breached”. The hill was fortified with numerous machine gun positions, reinforced with mud, bricks, and tiles, and connected by an intricate network of trenches. Dense rows of barbed wire lay before the positions, designed to halt attackers and expose them to machine-gun fire. Additionally, the area was likely heavily mined, and Chinese soldiers maintained a high level of alertness. Akao knew this all too well; when he crawled forward and slightly lifted his head to survey the landscape, he triggered a hail of bullets, one of which grazed his helmet. Around late afternoon, four mountain guns from the regimental artillery began firing on the Chinese positions, sustaining the bombardment for over an hour. By 5:00 pm, as the winter sky darkened, Akao decided it was time to launch the attack. Expecting close-quarters combat, he instructed his men to carry only their rifles and small entrenchment tools. With the entire company poised to move, he dispatched a small group of soldiers ahead to cut openings in the barbed wire while receiving covering fire from the mountain guns and the rifles and machine guns of their comrades. The remainder of the company advanced with swords raised and bayonets fixed. As they approached within about 700 feet of the enemy positions, the artillery bombardment ceased as planned. The enemy, still reeling from the ferocity of the earlier assault, scrambled in a panic from their trenches, retreating in disarray. Akao and his fellow soldiers pressed forward, cutting down any opposition in their path. Seizing the momentum, Akao charged to occupy the hill that had been his target. He found it deserted upon his arrival and sent a triumphant message back to command, reporting that the objective had been achieved. However, the reply he received left him baffled: he was ordered to withdraw with his company and return to their lines. Apparently, the regimental command deemed the position too precarious. Sensing that a precious advantage was being squandered, Akao disregarded the order. Before his company could establish a defensive position on the hill, the Chinese launched a counterattack. Lying down, the Japanese soldiers returned fire while frantically digging into the earth to fortify their position. Gradually, they began to form a rudimentary perimeter at the summit. The fighting continued into the night. Exhausted from days without sleep, many soldiers rotated between guard duty and rest, dozing off intermittently in their shallow trenches, reassuring one another that everything would be alright before drifting back to sleep. They successfully repelled all attempts by the Chinese to reclaim the hill and were eventually relieved. On December 11, after leaving his capital, Chiang Kai-shek took time to reflect on everything that had happened in his diary. He reassured himself that his nationalist revolution would persist, regardless of whether he held Nanjing, “Temporary defeat can be turned into eventual victory.” Yet he did not fear so much the Japanese invasion itself, but rather how the weakening of his nationalist government might allow the Communists to rise. He wrote about how his nation was on the brink of becoming a second Spain. While foreign invasions were undoubtedly disastrous, they could eventually be overcome, if not immediately, then over years or decades. Sometimes, this could be achieved merely by absorbing the outmatched invader and assimilating them into Chinese society. In contrast, internal unrest posed a far more fundamental threat to the survival of any regime. As we have seen in this series, going back to the mid 19th century, was it the foreign empires of Britain, France and Russia that threatened to destroy the Qing dynasty, or was it the internal civil war brought on by the Taiping? As Chiang famously put it “the Japanese were a treatable disease of the skin. Communism however was a disease of the heart”. Chiang could accept a humiliating but rapid retreat from Nanjing. In his view, it would be far more difficult to recover from a bloody yet futile struggle for the city that might cost him what remained of his best troops. A prolonged defensive battle, he reasoned, would be a tragic waste and could shift the balance of power decisively in favor of the Communists. This new mindset was reflected in a telegram he sent late on December 11 to Tang Shengzhi: “If the situation becomes untenable, it is permissible to find the opportune moment to retreat to regroup in the rear in anticipation of future counterattacks.” On December 12, tankettes cautiously plunged into the Yuhuatai plateau. Unexpectedly the Chinese defenders abandoned their positions and rushed down the hillside toward Nanjing's walls. Upon discovering this, the Japanese tankettes opened fire on the retreating Chinese, cutting swathes through the masses and sending bodies tumbling down the slope. Some Japanese infantry caught up, joining in the slaughter and laughing boisterously as they reveled in the chaos. A tankette column escorted a group of engineers to the Nanjing wall and then drove east along the moat until they reached a large gate, flanked by two smaller openings, all securely shut. A chilling message, painted in blue, adorned the gate's surface. Written in Chinese characters, it conveyed a stark warning: “We Swear Revenge on the Enemy.” The wall itself loomed three stories high, but Japanese artillery was already targeting it, this was known as the Chinese Gate. Now that Yuhuatai was virtually in Japanese hands, capturing the gate had become the primary objective. At this location, the wall stood 70 feet tall, protected by a 100-foot moat to the outside. All bridges spanning the moat had been destroyed. The area around the gate was heavily defended, with approximately one machine gun positioned every 50 yards atop the wall. Inside, the gate was reinforced with a formidable barrier of sandbags. Chinese infantry armed with mortars and small arms could fire down on the Japanese attackers while others had established isolated positions in nearby buildings that had survived the “scorched earth” policy. Taking the gate and the heavily fortified southwestern corner of the wall was the responsibility of the 6th Division. The division was deploying its regiments: the 13th, the 47th, and the 23rd from east to west. The 45th Regiment, the final unit of the division, was tasked with skirting the western side of the wall and advancing northward, aiming for the Yangtze docks at Xiaguan. The soldiers of the division had already formed a rough understanding of the formidable defenses they were facing. During the night between December 11 and 12, they had advanced nearly to the wall, gathering intelligence to prepare for an assault at dawn. As planned, the assault commenced. Field artillery fired round after round at the gate, but the wall sustained minimal damage. A Japanese tank rolled up, firing point-blank at the gate but producing no visible effect. Next, it was the engineers' turn. A “dare-to-die” squad, equipped with long ladders, crept as close to the wall as possible without exposing themselves and then sprinted the final distance. The moment they broke into the open, a Chinese machine gun opened fire, cutting them down to the last man. At noon, three Japanese planes soared overhead, dropping bombs near a Chinese-held building outside the gate. The smoke from the resulting fire briefly obscured the area. Seizing the opportunity presented by the reduced visibility, a large group of Chinese soldiers holed up inside attempted to dash back to the wall. The Japanese spotted their movement instantly, and every soldier in the line opened fire. The fleeing Chinese were mowed down like ripe grass, collapsing in heaps. Meanwhile the battle for the Gate of Enlightenment was drawing to a close. On the Chinese side of the wall, confusion reigned regarding the overall situation on December 12. Chen Yiding, brigade commander of the 87th Division, had been warned that heads would roll if the Gate of Enlightenment fell to the Japanese. Hearing the sounds of fierce fighting on the edges of Yuhuatai and seeing the smoke rise from numerous fires on Purple Mountain, he was left in the dark about their implications, surrounded by the fog of war. Chen's troops had finally managed to establish a telephone link to the rear, but by mid-afternoon, it was cut off, likely due to a stray artillery shell. After dark, Chen sent an officer to his left flank to make contact with the Chinese forces there. The report that followed was far from reassuring. A unit from Guangdong Province was abandoning its positions and retreating north, attempting to exit the capital through one of the gates in the city wall. The officer had attempted to inquire about their destination, but the retreating soldiers ignored him. With neighboring units evacuating autonomously, a significant gap was opening in the Chinese line atop the wall between the Gate of Enlightenment and Sun Yat-sen Gate. A frightening possibility emerged: the Japanese could walk right in across the undefended southeastern corner of the city wall and surround Chen Yiding's troops before they had a chance to withdraw. The situation was becoming untenable, a fact underscored by the artillery fire raining down on Chen's position. Despite this, retreat was not a simple decision for Chen and the other commanders of the 87th Division. They had been garrisoned in Nanjing before the war, and the city had become home to many of the soldiers. Shortly after midnight, Chen called a meeting with his senior officers. After considerable discussion, they concluded that they had no choice but to withdraw. Nonetheless, Chen insisted that everyone sign a document confirming their support for this decision, recognizing the potential danger of taking such a significant step without consensus. After all, his own life had been threatened if the situation deteriorated further. Soon after, the Chinese began to move out of their positions. The Japanese were initially unaware of the retreat; all they noticed during the night between December 12 and 13 was that the Chinese artillery fire began to grow increasingly distant. By 4:00 am it had stopped completely. The few remaining Chinese were quickly overwhelmed and killed. In the end, the gate, which had cost so many lives during the seemingly endless battle, was taken almost effortlessly by the Japanese. Soldiers of the 9th Division, stationed outside the wall, scrambled up the slope created by the previous days' shelling. Once at the top, they thrust their hands into the air, shouting “Banzai!” so loudly that they believed their families back home in Japan might hear them. Tears streamed down their faces as soldiers embraced and shook hands, reflecting on the friends they had lost throughout the months of fighting, from Shanghai to their current position. They reassured each other that their sacrifices had been worth it for this very moment. On December 12, the slopes of Purple Mountain were ablaze. Zhou Zhenqiang, commander of the Training Division's 1st Brigade, led his men in a desperate struggle to maintain control of the mountain's forested peaks. However, they were being overwhelmed by the better-equipped Japanese troops, and Zhou knew it was only a matter of time before he would have to relinquish his position. Zhou found himself unable to obtain any information from his superiors about the overall situation, despite repeated attempts to contact the Training Division's headquarters. He dispatched a runner, who returned a few hours later with disheartening news: the divisional commander had left late in the afternoon. Other reports indicated a general breakdown in command. The elite 88th Division was in disarray, and an entire division of Guangdong troops, that being the same force that had abandoned the wall near the Gate of Enlightenment, had been spotted marching out of the Gate of Great Peace, seemingly intent on returning home. With indications of collapse all around him, Zhou decided to execute an orderly withdrawal from Purple Mountain, leaving a small contingent behind to cover the retreat. His troops entered through the city wall at Sun Yat-sen Gate and marched in disciplined columns through the streets of Nanjing, where signs of imminent anarchy were evident. Chinese soldiers were scattered everywhere, speaking a cacophony of dialects, yet they appeared to lack any coherent command. Tang Shengzhi's grip on the situation was weakening. Meanwhile Japan's 13th Air Group had been busy with the final stages of the battle for Nanjing. In the morning of December 12, after raiding Chinese positions at Sun Yat-sen Gate, they received new orders. Intelligence indicated that Chinese ships, laden with troops, were moving up the Yangtze from Nanjing. Japanese infantry on the ground could only watch as this prize slipped through their fingers, and the army requested air support. All available planes at Changzhou, a mix of A4N fighters and Yokosuka B4Y bombers, totaling 24 aircraft, were assembled for the crucial mission. The day was clear, providing excellent visibility as the pilots headed toward the section of the Yangtze where they believed the vessels would be, based on reasonable assumptions about their speed. At 1:30 p.m., 28 nautical miles upriver from Nanjing, the pilots sighted four ships. Trusting their military intelligence, they saw no need for further identification. Initially, the B4Ys bombed the vessels from a considerable height. One bomb struck the lead ship, a military vessel, disabling its forward gun and snapping the foremast. Then, a first wave of six A4Ns dove down over the line of ships, attacking individually. In total, they dropped about 20 bombs. Several exploded close enough to the lead vessel to damage its hull and injure crew members on deck. A 30-caliber machine gun on board was manned, with gunners stripped to the waist firing at the Japanese planes but failing to score a hit. Several of the A4Ns strafed the ship with machine-gun fire. After 20 minutes of sustained bombing and strafing, the result was utter devastation. The lead vessel was stuck in mid-river, riddled with bullets, aflame, and listing to starboard. Two other ships were beached on the right bank, while another sat stranded on the left. Satisfied with their mission, the Japanese aviators broke off and returned to their temporary base. Upon their landing in Changzhou, instead of receiving accolades, the pilots were met with reprimands. Why hadn't they sunk all the vessels? They were ordered to return immediately to finish the job. Though they didn't find the original targets, they stumbled upon four other vessels closer to Nanjing. One aircraft dove toward the ships, releasing a 60-kilogram bomb that struck one vessel. As the pilot pulled up, he caught sight of the Union Jack on the hull and realized his mistake; he had inadvertently targeted neutral ships. The other pilots recognized the significance of the markings as well and withheld their bombs. The vessel was identified as the SS Wantung. Soon after, the Japanese pilots understood that the ships they had attacked earlier upriver from Nanjing were also Western; three of them were Standard Oil tankers. The last vessel, which had sustained the most damage, was the USS Panay, a lightly armed flat-bottomed gunboat, tasked with protecting American lives and property along China's longest river. The Panay had been instrumental in evacuating American citizens from the war zone in November and December. On the day it was attacked, the Panay was carrying four American embassy personnel and ten American and foreign journalists to safety. The ship's doctor converted the engine room into a makeshift sick bay, treating a steady stream of injured personnel. By the end, he was tending to 45 patients. The soldiers and passengers were evacuated in two small boats to a nearby marshy island covered in reeds, where they hid, fearful of further strafing. From their hiding place, they watched as a Japanese powerboat filled with soldiers approached the Panay. After firing more volleys at the vessel, the soldiers boarded it, remaining for only five minutes before departing. The American flag still flew from the bow at that time. At 3:54 pm, the Panay rolled over to starboard and sank in seven to ten fathoms of water. Cold and frightened, the survivors waded through knee-deep mud to a nearby village, assisting those too severely wounded to walk. Meanwhile back at Chinese Gate, the mutual slaughter continued into the afternoon of December 12. The Japanese made no significant progress, although their failure was not for lack of trying. The commanders of the 6th Division had strategically placed the boundary between the 13th and 47th Regiments exactly at the gate, encouraging both units to compete to be the first to seize the position. Yet, despite their efforts, it became clear that willpower alone was not enough to breach the Chinese defenses at Chinese Gate. In peacetime, Nanjing's city gates served as entry points into a bustling capital, but in wartime, they transformed into heavily fortified and nearly impregnable strongholds. Any Japanese officer hoping for a swift victory would soon be disappointed; by early afternoon, the situation at the gate had devolved into a stalemate. The section of the wall manned by the 47th Infantry Regiment, located east of the gate, also saw little meaningful movement as the day wore on. Japanese soldiers, pinned down by Chinese fire from atop the wall, could do little more than take pride in a symbolic triumph. A small group of soldiers had managed to reach the wall and place a ladder against it, but it fell nearly ten feet short of the top. One soldier skillfully scaled the last portion, gripping protruding bricks and crevices of the nearly vertical surface. The entire Japanese front watched him with bated breath. He reached the top and unfurled a Japanese flag, but it immediately drew intense Chinese fire, forcing him to duck for cover. Soon, he vanished from sight, raising concerns among his compatriots about his fate. Later, it was revealed that he had taken refuge in a depression in the wall, waiting out the battle. The real breakthrough of the day would occur west of the gate. The 23rd Regiment was deployed there with orders to capture sections of the wall near the southwestern corner. It became evident that the wall could not be scaled without first bringing up artillery to create gaps in its solid masonry. A significant portion of the divisional fire support, 36 small-caliber mountain guns, four 100mm howitzers, and four 150mm howitzers, was assigned to this section. Artillery observers were also sent to the 23rd Regiment's forward command post to coordinate with the infantry and assess the effects of the shelling. By mid-afternoon, the artillery bombardment had created a ravine-like hole in the wall large enough for an assault. The 23rd Regiment positioned its 2nd and 3rd Battalions at the front, with the 1st Battalion held in reserve. First, the engineers undertook the challenging task. As the assault commenced, the rest of the regiment provided covering fire to force the Chinese defenders to seek shelter while the engineers charged into the 70-foot-wide moat. Once a human chain formed, they held up ladders as a makeshift bridge, allowing a company from the 3rd Battalion to rush across and into the gap in the wall. As the batteries switched to close infantry support, they laid down a barrage around the breach to prevent Chinese interference as the attack entered its decisive phase. The Japanese soldiers scrambled up the rubble, created by the artillery fire, which rose several dozen feet high. Shortly before 5:00 p.m., the Japanese seized control of the southwestern segment of the wall. The Chinese launched several counterattacks to reclaim the position, but none were successful. This action ultimately sealed Nanjing's fate; beyond the wall, there was nothing left to save the ancient city and its inhabitants. As defeat appeared imminent, more and more civilians sought safety in foreign-controlled areas, though danger still loomed large. Bits of shrapnel narrowly missed Dr. Robert Wilson while he operated in the Safety Zone. Every square foot of John Rabe's property became filled with families, many camping in the open with their own blankets. Some sought refuge under his large swastika flag, believing that this would make the area especially “bomb-proof” given the growing friendship between Tokyo and Berlin; they assumed Japanese aviators would think twice before targeting a region seemingly under German protection. With just hours left before the Japanese Army was expected to gain control, the residents of Nanjing made their last preparations, prioritizing personal survival. The brutal behavior of Japanese troops in conquered territories fueled intense concern over the possible fate of injured soldiers who might fall into enemy hands. As Nanjing's last hours as a free city unfolded, it became imperative for local hospitals to evacuate as many wounded soldiers as possible across the Yangtze. On December 12, doctors found a motorboat stranded on the riverbank, having apparently broken down. They managed to repair it and ferried several hundred patients to safety throughout the day. Throughout December 12, the citizens of Nanjing were subjected to the unsettling cacophony of heavy shelling, mixed with the roar of bombers overhead. By evening, the entire horizon south of the city glowed with flames. The sound of fighting emanated from all directions, continuing long after sunset. However, in the middle of the night, activity began to wan. Every few minutes, the muffled thuds of shells could still be heard, though their origin was unclear. For the most part, an eerie silence prevailed, as if the city was holding its breath in anticipation of the final onslaught. Chiang Kai-shek had indicated he would understand if Tang chose to abandon the capital. However, on December 12, he reversed his stance, sending a telegram to Tang expressing optimism that the Nanjing garrison could hold out significantly longer. In his words “If you do not shy away from sacrifices, you will be able to hold high the banner of our nation and our army, and this could transform defeat into victory. If you can hold out one more day, you will add to the pride of the Chinese nation. If you can hold out for half a month or more, the domestic and international situation could see a substantial change.” Tang adopted a hardline approach toward any signs of defeatism among his troops. When he learned that General Sun Yuanliang, commander of the formerly elite 88th Division, was leading approximately 2,000 men from the Gate of Enlightenment to the dock area, Tang acted swiftly. He dispatched Song Xilian, the commanding general of the 36th Division, to halt the retreat. When the two units met, a fratricidal clash nearly occurred. Fortunately, the 88th Division agreed to return to the gate and continue fighting. Whatever Tang's plans, they were rendered irrelevant at 3:00 pm, when he received another telegram from Chiang, this time ordering a full retreat. Rumors that the Chinese Army had started evacuating Nanjing triggerec panic among many units. Thousands abandoned their positions and joined the throngs of soldiers and civilians moving slowly down the city's main avenues. The crowd seemed to have collectively decided that getting a boat out of Nanjing was the best option, and by late afternoon, a solid mass of humanity stretched for miles through the city toward the dock areas at Xiaguan. To reach Xiaguan, everyone had to pass through Yijiang Gate. This relatively modern structure had served as the main entry point for visitors arriving in Nanjing by boat in recent decades and now only half of the main entrance was open. A crowd of that size trying to get through such a narrow bottleneck was a recipe for disaster. Those unfortunate enough to be right at the front felt the crushing pressure of tens of thousands of individuals pushing from behind. In that densely packed throng, stumbling and falling to the ground was akin to a death sentence; anyone who went down was inevitably crushed by the oncoming waves of terrified civilians and soldiers. As chaos erupted, discipline evaporated entirely. Officers lost control over their men, leading to infighting among the soldiers. Pushing and shoving escalated into fistfights, and trucks drove directly into the mass of people to force their way through. Tanks, emitting sounds akin to prehistoric beasts, rolled through the mob, crushing many under their weight. Amid the madness, some soldiers, driven by frustration over the lack of movement, began shooting into the crowd at random. To relieve the pressure at Yijiang Gate, some units were ordered to exit Nanjing via the Gate of Great Peace at the northeastern corner of the city wall. Upon arrival, they found the entrance nearly sealed shut. Thick walls of sandbags had been erected around it, leaving only a narrow opening through which one person could pass at a time. Massive crowds fought among themselves to get through; even under perfect order and discipline, it would have taken the entire night and most of the following day for everyone to pass. In the midst of the frantic chaos, it could take a week or more. During the night of the 12th, a select group of Japanese soldiers, chosen for the offensive, stripped their equipment down to the bare essentials: rifles, bayonets, and helmets. They avoided any gear that could produce a metallic noise, alerting the Chinese defenders to their approach. Stealthily, they moved up to the wall, carrying bamboo ladders tied together in threes for added height. Ascending the rungs, they ensured not to make a sound that could betray their position to an alert Chinese sentry. Everything hinged on remaining undetected; even a couple of hand grenades tossed down the wall could halt the attack in its tracks. Reaching the top without being noticed, the soldiers quickly fanned out. Chinese soldiers stationed on the wall saw the swift dark figures and opened fire, but it was too late to thwart the assault. A brief fight ensued; most Japanese soldiers were too close to use their rifles and immediately resorted to their bayonets. The stunned defenders were pushed back, and the successful assault team established a perimeter, awaiting reinforcements from outside the wall. They didn't have to wait long. A massive assault along the length of the 6th Division's front line commenced at dawn on December 13. Japanese artillery concentrated its fire on a narrow section of the city wall, progressively working its way from the bottom up. Gradually, the shells formed a slope of debris that soldiers could use to scale the wall. A short air raid was executed, and after the planes had weakened the remaining resistance, a group of soldiers rushed up the slope. While their comrades provided covering fire, they climbed the last stretch, rolling down a rope ladder. Within minutes, 40 other Japanese soldiers had joined them. By 10:30 am, the Rising Sun flag was flying over the wall. The Japanese invaders were met with a horrific sight at the top of the wall. Beyond lay the grim aftermath of days of shelling. Some houses were leveled, while others burned. The ground was littered with bodies, some decapitated or disemboweled, and pools of blood surrounded them. As Chiang Kai-shek's order to abandon the city gradually filtered down to the troops manning the wall around Nanjing, things began to move rapidly. By late morning on December 13, all the major entry points into the city had fallen to the Japanese. These included Chinese Gate in the southwest, the Gate of Enlightenment in the south, and Sun Yat-sen Gate in the east. The first thing that struck the Japanese soldiers upon ascending the wall was how starkly different it was from their expectations. They had anticipated a bustling city teeming with people, but instead, the area adjacent to the wall was characterized by farm plots, resembling countryside more than an urban center. The second notable observation was the complete absence of inhabitants. Cautiously, the Japanese soldiers entered the city they had just conquered, their bayonets fixed and rifles at the ready. Yet, surprisingly, very few shots were fired. After weeks of fearing death and injury, once the immediate danger receded, a certain stupor settled in. For most civilians in Nanjing, their initial encounter with the city's new rulers was uneventful. It took several hours for the Japanese to move from the wall into the urban parts of the capital. It was not until around noon that residents noticed the first groups of Japanese soldiers marching down the streets in clusters of six to twelve men. Initially, many met the conquerors with relief, hoping they would be treated fairly. Their optimism was bolstered by Japanese planes dropping leaflets over the city, reassuring residents of humane treatment. I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. On December 9, fierce battles erupted, especially at the Gate of Enlightenment. Despite heavy fighting, the Chinese showed remarkable resilience, turning Nanjing into a symbol of determination. However, the tide shifted as overwhelming Japanese artillery and tactics began to breach defenses. By December 13, as chaos engulfed the city, the invaders claimed victory, but not without significant loss. Civilians, caught amid the destruction, clung to hope amid despair.
Katie the News Lady (AKA, Katie Green) returns with a full explanation of her hiatus! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Fitness Program CATCHING UP (3 days left LAWS# 32, 33 The “Fat Trick” Used By A Former 4x Mr. Olympia To Build Thick Forearms, Huge Biceps… And Incredible Grip Strength!; Stressing in the Caribbean).“Winners Only” by Matthew Davies: https://winnersonlyfitness.com/Free Book Copy:https://winnersonlyfitness.com/laws/Want more? Patreon: (free and paid content) patreon.com/TomboyOfficialShop EBay: (Thorn Bloom 2025 T-Shirts) https://ebay.us/m/gRj3Ru (50 cents of all profits go to the Torrance LGBT+ Center in Los Angeles County, California)Blog: Tomboyofficial.blogspot.comIG: @Tomboyofficialig/ https://www.instagram.com/tomboyofficialig/
김영철의 파워FM - 진짜 영국식 영어 477회 - 걸쭉하다 = It's thick and hearty.
1:34 Challenges Accepted. 7:42 What is next for the 2025 Harvest Season. 14:25 That reminds me... are my analogies getting old?. 19:59 Grower Relations and Logistics. 39:47 Surprise guest?!Newsletter Link - https://mailchi.mp/mtgawines/summer25Be sure to SUBSCRIBE and follow us on our social networks @mtgawines (YouTube, Instagram, The Book of Face and the Social Network Formerly Known as Twitter)MTGA Wines: www.mtgawines.comBlaire Payton Wines: www.blairepaytonwines.com
The MacBroz are back with Episode 57!
Join co-hosts Adrian M. Gibson, M.J. Kuhn and Greta Kelly as they delve into a writing masterclass on Surviving the Midlist (or Not?) with author David Wragg. During the episode, David dishes on the (often harsh) realities of the midlist, including what “the midlist” is, the debut experience and expectations, (lack of) investment in authors, earnings/expenses/marketing, social support and community for midlisters, what success means, book submissions, the “midlist death spiral”, the value of midlist titles/authors, moving goalposts, persistence and more.NOTE: This is part two of a two-part chat with David. Click here to check out part one.OUR SPONSOR:The Malevolent Eight by Sebastien de Castell is the riotous dark fantasy sequel to The Malevolent Seven. Prepare for a whirlwind of dark magic, irreverent humor and relentless action in The Malevolent Eight.Now available in hardcover, along with eBook and audiobook. Buy your copy HERE.SHOUTOUT TO THE 'SFF ADDICT' PATRONS:Thank you Ian Patterson, Nicholas W. Fuller, David Hopkins, Luke F. Shepherd, Christopher R. DuBois, Luke A. Winch and GavinGuile for supporting us on Patreon at $10+.SUPPORT THE SHOW:- Patreon (for exclusive bonus episodes, author readings and more)- Rate and review SFF Addicts on your platform of choice, and share us with your friendsEMAIL US WITH YOUR QUESTIONS & COMMENTS:sffaddictspod@gmail.comABOUT OUR GUEST:David Wragg is the author of the Articles of Faith series and the Tales of the Plains series. His latest release is The Iron Road, which you can purchase here.Find David on Bluesky, Amazon and his personal website.ABOUT OUR HOSTS:Adrian M. Gibson is the author of Mushroom Blues.Find Adrian on Instagram and his personal website.M.J. Kuhn is the author of Among Thieves and Thick as Thieves.Find M.J. on Instagram and her personal website.Greta Kelly is the author of The Queen of Days, The Frozen Crown and The Seventh Queen.Find Greta on Instagram and her personal website.FOLLOW SFF ADDICTS:LinktreeMUSIC:Intro: "Into The Grid" by MellauSFXOutro: “Galactic Synthwave” by DivionAD ATTRIBUTION:- Music: "Sinister Slink" by SCOREWIZARDS- Video: Envato Elements
Laura, 55, was diagnosed with type 1 in March 2024 after months of missed signs, DKA, septic shock, and necrotizing fasciitis. Now on a GLP, she's honeymooning without insulin. Part 2 of 2 Free Juicebox Community (non Facebook) Type 1 Diabetes Pro Tips - THE PODCAST Eversense CGM Medtronic Diabetes Tandem Mobi ** twiist AID System Drink AG1.com/Juicebox Use code JUICEBOX to save 40% at Cozy Earth CONTOUR NextGen smart meter and CONTOUR DIABETES app Dexcom G7 Go tubeless with Omnipod 5 or Omnipod DASH * Get your supplies from US MED or call 888-721-1514 Touched By Type 1 Take the T1DExchange survey Apple Podcasts> Subscribe to the podcast today! The podcast is available on Spotify, Google Play, iHeartRadio, Radio Public, Amazon Music and all Android devices The Juicebox Podcast is a free show, but if you'd like to support the podcast directly, you can make a gift here or buy me a coffee. Thank you! *The Pod has an IP28 rating for up to 25 feet for 60 minutes. The Omnipod 5 Controller is not waterproof. ** t:slim X2 or Tandem Mobi w/ Control-IQ+ technology (7.9 or newer). RX ONLY. Indicated for patients with type 1 diabetes, 2 years and older. BOXED WARNING:Control-IQ+ technology should not be used by people under age 2, or who use less than 5 units of insulin/day, or who weigh less than 20 lbs. Safety info: tandemdiabetes.com/safetyinfo Disclaimer - Nothing you hear on the Juicebox Podcast or read on Arden's Day is intended as medical advice. You should always consult a physician before making changes to your health plan. If the podcast has helped you to live better with type 1 please tell someone else how to find it!
Super Thick "Teacher Bae" Goes Viral For Show Her Assets | Is She Dressed Inappropriately? by Greg Adams
Nancy Sheed, host of HAYVN Hubcast talks with author Betsy Lerner, and she takes us from blue pencils and slush piles to BookTok and bestsellers. She shares how she moved from editorial roles at major houses to agenting for the flexibility publishing didn't offer at the time, and how that entrepreneurial leap paid off. We get her “discoverability” playbook (from magazine racks on the streets of New York to TikTok), candid advice on today's path to publication, the backstory of Shred Sisters, and her refreshingly practical mindset on rejection: don't dwell on no, keep looking for the yes. Nancy's conversation with Betsy covers: Breaking into publishing (then vs. now): The traditional path runs through a literary agent, and today, platform, credentials, or media access often matter (especially in nonfiction). Fiction still benefits from strong pedigree and publication credits. From editor to agent: Betsy left editorial for agenting to gain flexibility while raising a child. She brought authors she'd developed as an editor, pairing editorial instincts with a builder's mindset. Talent discovery, old-school and new: Pre-internet, she scoured magazine racks to spot compelling voices, famously writing to “Merlin” (Neil deGrasse Tyson) after seeing his cosmos cartoons. Today, she finds serious experts on TikTok and checks longer-form writing (e.g., Substack) to validate voice. TikTok is not just “kids dancing”: BookTok (and STEM talk) hosts passionate, informed communities that genuinely move book sales these days. Consistency and a clear “lane” matter; think of it as your own channel. Creating Shred Sisters: After an intensive nonfiction collaboration with Temple Grandin, Betsy unexpectedly drafted her novel over seven months during COVID, then spent two years revising. The story was fueled by profound personal losses and deepened bonds with her sisters. Thick skin required: Even as a well-known agent, Betsy got rejections on her novel and emphasizes not getting mired in the “no.” You only need the right “yes.” Connect with Betsy The Forest for the Trees: An Editors Advice to Writers Website TikTok Connect with Nancy LinkedIn Instagram Website
Laura, 55, was diagnosed with type 1 in March 2024 after months of missed signs, DKA, septic shock, and necrotizing fasciitis. Now on a GLP, she's honeymooning without insulin. Part 1 of 2 Go tubeless with Omnipod 5 or Omnipod DASH * Dexcom G7 CONTOUR NextGen smart meter and CONTOUR DIABETES app Get your supplies from US MED or call 888-721-1514 Tandem Mobi twiist AID System Free Juicebox Community (non Facebook) Type 1 Diabetes Pro Tips - THE PODCAST Eversense CGM Medtronic Diabetes Drink AG1.com/Juicebox Touched By Type 1 Take the T1DExchange survey Use code JUICEBOX to save 40% at Cozy Earth Apple Podcasts> Subscribe to the podcast today! The podcast is available on Spotify, Google Play, iHeartRadio, Radio Public, Amazon Music and all Android devices The Juicebox Podcast is a free show, but if you'd like to support the podcast directly, you can make a gift here or buy me a coffee. Thank you! The Pod has an IP28 rating for up to 25 feet for 60 minutes. The PDM is not waterproof. Brown et al. Diabetes Care (2021). Sherr et al. Diabetes Care (2022). Pasquel FJ, et al. JAMA Network Open (2025). Single-arm studies comparing 3 months of Omnipod 5 use to standard therapy in 240 people aged 6-70 years and 80 people aged 2-5.9 years with type 1 diabetes and 305 people aged 18-75 years with type 2 diabetes. Disclaimer - Nothing you hear on the Juicebox Podcast or read on Arden's Day is intended as medical advice. You should always consult a physician before making changes to your health plan. If the podcast has helped you to live better with type 1 please tell someone else how to find it!
Pudgy. Thick glasses. Speech Impediment. Entitled. Pretentious. Condescending. Arrogant. Self Centered.I don't know what to say guys. This dude just sucked.
Pudgy. Thick glasses. Speech Impediment. Entitled. Pretentious. Condescending. Arrogant. Self Centered.I don't know what to say guys. This dude just sucked.
Why I Own 5 Homes But Never Travel (Multi-Home Living Strategy Explained) Most wealthy people get lifestyle design completely wrong. They think more travel = better life. But here's what millionaires and billionaires actually do... In this video, Tai Lopez breaks down his 4-home rotation system that eliminates travel stress while maximizing happiness, health, and wealth-building potential.