Podcasts

Yesterday, I received an unexpected and heartwarming note from my friend Jim in the mail. The note, quoting Henry David Thoreau, expressed gratitude for my ability to improve others’ days and praised the positive impact I’ve had on Jim’s life. … Read More

I have a deep affection for peaches, and it’s not just because my dear sister has been affectionately known as “Peaches” for over half a century. Beyond sentimental attachment, the luscious sweetness and juiciness of a ripe peach never fail … Read More

During my road trip through Arizona, I stumbled upon the quirky and enticing Road Kill Café in Seligman. Nestled on Historic Route 66, this eatery lives up to its eccentric reputation with a menu featuring creatively named dishes like “Awesome … Read More

I recently had the pleasure of attending a mini reunion at my alma mater, Williams College, known for its unusual mascot – a purple cow. While it may seem eccentric compared to the more common mascots like bulldogs or wildcats, … Read More

I recently spent a week in Mississippi, primarily in Jones County and the town of Laurel, and I was pleasantly surprised by what I discovered. Despite Mississippi’s often low rankings in various metrics, Laurel exudes a sense of progress and … Read More

Halloween is a truly special day, one that I believe should be considered a national holiday. Halloween, while not officially recognized as such, holds immense significance for various reasons. It allows us all to indulge in a bit of escapism, … Read More

I have a rather unusual habit that might surprise my listeners: I’ve been taking outdoor showers almost every day for the past 70 days. There’s something incredibly invigorating and grounding about the experience, connecting me to nature’s elements. Curious about … Read More

Today, I experienced a rather unfortunate four-hour stretch, which is quite unusual for someone with my typically optimistic outlook. It all began with a dreaded dentist appointment, knowing I’d be in the chair for a lengthy two hours, and even … Read More

I recently had a moment of nostalgia, realizing that I haven’t received or sent a postcard in years. A dear friend embarking on a Danube River cruise evoked the instinct to ask for postcards, sparking reflections on this nearly forgotten … Read More

After an early morning flight to Chicago, I found myself at a new gate with no available seats. A stranger, a tall man in his 50s with his family, kindly offered his seat to me, prompting me to reflect on why. Though initially shocked, I ultimately felt immense gratitude for this act of kindness, because of the rarity and genuine warmth of such gestures in today’s world.… Read More