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    WWDTM: Summer Break Edition!

    enAugust 10, 2024
    What unexpected places can lead to finding peace?
    How did Jason Isbell describe his relationship with his wife?
    What challenges did Baron Grimthorp face with Big Ben?
    What is Josh Homme's musical background and influences?
    What lesson did Homme emphasize about learning from failures?

    Podcast Summary

    • Unexpected places for peacePeace can be found in unexpected places like being in transit or creating music, as shared on podcasts like Wild Card and Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me.

      Finding peace can come from unexpected places, such as being in transit or creating music, as author Tathy Brodesser-Achner shared on the Wild Card podcast. Elsewhere in the podcast feed, listeners can look forward to exclusive coverage of the Democratic National Convention and the return of "How to Do Everything." Meanwhile, on Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me, guests continue to share interesting stories, like Jason Isbell discussing the origin of his band's name, The 400 Unit, and revealing that even musical legends like Bruce Springsteen are fans of his work. And for those who may have missed it, past episodes are filled with entertaining highlights. So whether it's through music, podcasts, or conventions, there's always something new and exciting to discover. Embrace the change and enjoy the journey.

    • Importance of honesty and comfort in relationshipsBeing a good friend and having a strong bond requires comfort and honesty, allowing both parties to ask and answer questions, no matter how trivial they may seem.

      Comfort and honesty in relationships are important, even if it means checking for boogers. Jason Isbell shared a heartwarming story about a playful moment with his wife during a Tiny Desk concert, emphasizing the importance of being a good friend and having a strong bond where both parties feel comfortable enough to ask and answer questions, no matter how trivial they may seem. During a quiz about Big Ben, Isbell showcased his sharp wit and knowledge, answering two out of three questions correctly. The quiz revolved around Baron Grimthorp, the self-proclaimed clock expert who designed Big Ben, and the various challenges he faced during the project. The key takeaway from this conversation is the importance of honesty, comfort, and friendship in relationships. Just like Jason Isbell and his wife, we should all strive to create a bond where we can be ourselves and ask the uncomfortable questions, ensuring a strong and loving connection.

    • Rachel Maddow's unexpected broadcasting careerFrom a predicted professor to a renowned broadcast journalist, Rachel Maddow's journey began as a radio 'news girl' and evolved into TV, despite her initial reluctance to be on camera. She now feels a great responsibility towards her audience, who seek her hope and analysis.

      Rachel Maddow, the renowned MSNBC host, had an unexpected journey from being a college student predicted to become a professor to a broadcast journalist. She started as a "news girl" on a morning zoo radio show and transitioned to TV, despite her initial apprehensions about being seen on camera. Maddow, who is also an avid fisher, shared her experience of the intense responsibility she feels towards her audience, who often look to her for hope and analysis. During the interview at Carnegie Hall, she also revealed her struggle with the challenges of filming Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace, specifically dealing with Ewan McGregor's unwanted lightsaber noises during filming.

    • Storytelling impactSuccessful individuals, like James Patterson and Rachel Maddow, stress the importance of storytelling and its significant impact on their careers, whether through writing or broadcasting.

      Successful individuals, whether they are authors or hosts of popular television shows, have a deep passion for storytelling and a relentless dedication to their craft. During a discussion on MSNBC, Rachel Maddow shared an interesting anecdote about the filming of "Star Wars" in Tunisia, while interviewing best-selling author James Patterson. Both guests emphasized the importance of stories and their impact on their respective careers. James Patterson, the world's best-selling author, shared his thoughts on the power of storytelling and how it led him to success, despite starting his career in advertising. He mentioned that his first novel was a huge success and that he's written in various genres since then, except for epic poetry and erotica. Rachel Maddow, the host of The Rachel Maddow Show, also highlighted the significance of storytelling in her own career and shared an amusing anecdote about the filming of "Star Wars" in Tunisia. In essence, the conversation between Rachel Maddow and James Patterson underscores the importance of stories and the impact they can have on individuals and their careers. Whether it's through writing or broadcasting, storytelling is a powerful tool that connects people and leaves a lasting impression.

    • Airport surprisesAirports offer more than just shopping and dining; explore unique offerings like rides on the world's highest slide, unusual purchases, and even weddings

      Airports offer more than just books and overpriced snacks. James Patterson may have missed a few questions in a quiz on Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me, but he did share some interesting facts. For example, the pretzel image on the Antian's pretzel logo came from a simple Xerox copy of an actual pretzel, and the Changi Airport in Singapore offers a unique reward for every $10 spent: a ride on the world's highest slide. Additionally, some airports even offer unusual purchases like root canals, expensive hams, or the opportunity to get married. So the next time you're at the airport, keep an open mind and explore the unexpected offerings.

    • Phone distraction during performancesActors can take bold actions to address phone distractions from audience members, which can result in unexpected positive reactions and outcomes.

      Patty LaPone shared an amusing anecdote about her experience dealing with a distracted audience member during a performance at the Mitzi Newhouse Theater. The woman was texting throughout the first act, and LaPone, in a bold move, reached out and took the phone from her lap. The audience reacted with gasps and applause, and LaPone went on to win a game on a podcast called "Wild Card" by answering three questions correctly about wolves. The episode also featured a discussion about the challenges faced by professional athletes, such as soccer legend Abby Wambach, during their transition to normal life. The episode concluded with a promotion for the NPR Plus bundle and an explanation of an economic indicator discussed on The Indicator podcast.

    • Musical Journey of Josh HommeMusician Josh Homme, known for Kaius, Eagles of Death Metal, Queens of the Stone Age, shared stories of his musical journey from Palm Desert, learned from failures, and kept band members happy through communication and scheduling.

      Josh Homme, the musician behind Kaius, Eagles of Death Metal, Queens of the Stone Age, and many other projects, shared stories from his musical journey. He recalled his early days starting bands in Palm Desert, California, and the influence of polka music. Homme also shared the origin of his band's tattoo, a reminder of a disastrous show in Germany. He emphasized the importance of learning from failures and continuing to push for success. Additionally, Homme discussed juggling multiple bands and keeping band members happy through scheduling and communication. The interview concluded with a game where Homme answered questions about the classic animated show "The Flintstones."

    • Flintstones movie conceptsThe Flintstones movie went through various concepts including an adaptation of 'The Grapes of Wrath' and a futuristic twist ending, but was ultimately made as a more lighthearted production.

      The development of the Flintstones live-action movie went through various stages and concepts before its final version. One intriguing idea was an adaptation of "The Grapes of Wrath," where Fred and Barney faced unemployment and hardship. Another concept involved a futuristic twist ending. Ultimately, these ideas were discarded, and the movie was made as a more lighthearted production. Meanwhile, the new Queens of the Stone Age album, "Villains," is out now. Joshua Hummee won two out of three in our recent competition. The Olympics in 2024 will feature the same number of athletes in women's and men's sports, marking a significant step towards gender equality. In the It's Been A Minute podcast, musical icon Ani DiFranco shares insights on reinventing oneself when feeling stuck.

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