Best Recluse Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 274 - November 17 to November 21 2025 - To Annoy a Reclusive Author 1:32:25

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2d ago1:32:25

1:32:25

Jeopardy! recaps from the week of November 17th, 2025. We prepare for Thanksgiving, muse about travel writing, and Kyle brings us everything there is to know about Harper Lee. Find us on Facebook (Potent Podables). Check out our Patreon (patreon.com/potentpodables). Email us at [email protected]. Continue to support social justice moveme…

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354 Jody Wilhelm: From Rural Recluse to Global Filmmaker 31:20

20d ago31:20

31:20

Jody’s life reads like a movie—one she ultimately wrote and directed herself. Growing up in isolation and surviving severe trauma, she moved through poverty, rape, separation from siblings, and profound loss—the deaths of her mother, grandmother, and daughter. Yet Jody transformed her pain into purpose, becoming a mother, model, teacher, TV’s belov…

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257. Stop Dreading the Holiday Party: Your Step-by-Step Confidence Strategy 25:31

1d ago25:31

25:31

If your nervous system goes into overdrive every time a work event pops up on your calendar, this episode is your new survival guide. Today I'll explain the psychology behind holiday party dread, the professional stakes, and how to navigate the event like a grounded, self-managed leader. You'll walk away with concrete tools, conversation prompts, a…

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The Last Ships From Hamburg: An Immigration Story 57:27

4d ago57:27

57:27

Our second in a series of podcasts about New York City and American immigration history. Between the late 1890s and early 1920s, over 2 million Jews from Eastern Europe fled their homes and made the long journey to America, escaping persecution and violence in their native countries. Many were fleeing state-sanctioned antisemitism in Russia. This m…

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356 Darlene Norman: Belief in Your Own Advocacy Starts with Faith 27:46

6d ago27:46

27:46

Long a member of the Apostolic Church of God in the Woodlawn neighborhood of Chicago, Darlene’s faith has been a constant even as she experiences the inevitable ups and downs of life. At 71, Darlene’s serene manner shines through and she peppers her conversation with thoughtful musings based on living a life of scripture. And a successful life it h…

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[Update!] The Arts Hub: Has Our Arts Scene Finally Found a Home? -📍 Vancouver, WA 25:14

7d ago25:14

25:14

We've got an update! Adriana sits down with Christine Richardson to hear all about what's happening at the end of 2025 and what we can look forward to in 2026. The first half of this episode is a rebroadcast of our interview from May, 2025. Listen to the end for a sneak peek at what's to come. 🗺️ Visit them at www.theartscentered.org | Instagram | …

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Welcome to the Horizon 2.2: The People in your Neighborhood 1:47:33

7d ago1:47:33

1:47:33

"Hey, look at that. Out here in another galaxy and still: Small world." Cast: Trinkett - Camille Smicker Frank - Benjamin Burdick Doug - Keith Cable Eldin - Joe Fisher June - Melody Bridges Verge - Cat Blackard Leif - Tom Moorman Deidre - Tina Case Celeste - Cooper Shaw Steve - Jessica Mudd Snorts Ma Ghorts - Jesse Tilley Slabz Mc Terpz - Joe Fishe…

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#473 The Other Side of Ellis Island 1:25:54

11d ago1:25:54

1:25:54

Ellis Island is one of America’s great landmarks, a place in New York Harbor that represents the millions of people who arrived in this country during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The north side of Ellis Island, now operated by the National Park Service as the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration (part of the Statue of Liberty Nat…

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256. The Social Intelligence Advantage: How Charismatic Leaders Turn Heads, Build Trust, and Become Unforgettable 32:38

11d ago32:38

32:38

In episode #256, we unpack the real reason some professionals are welcomed, remembered, and trusted, while others blend into the background. Susan breaks down the non-obvious, leader-level skills today's professionals need to stand out in meetings, networking events, interviews, client dinners, and every room that matters. This episode goes far dee…

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Episode 273 - 10 November to 14 November 2025 - Get a Clue! 1:34:51

12d ago1:34:51

1:34:51

Jeopardy! recaps from the week of November 10th, 2025. Emily gives a PSA for senior citizens about scams, Kyle gets to talk about Romantic composers even more, and Emily dives deep into the classic board game Clue! Find us on Facebook (Potent Podables). Check out our Patreon (patreon.com/potentpodables). Email us at [email protected]. Co…

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355 Laurel Baer: Caregiving Offers a Deep Sense of Purpose 29:00

13d ago29:00

29:00

When Laurel married in her late 50s, she never imagined she’d become her husband’s full-time caregiver just five years later. Now, twenty years into that journey, she calls it a blessing: “He is so easy to care for…. I have released early feelings of resentment, realizing that I’ve been training my whole life to do this.” As Director of Strategic I…

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Composer Kevin Hanlon’s Extraordinary Eclecticism - 📍Vancouver, WA 22:41

14d ago22:41

22:41

Kevin Hanlon's musical journey defies categorization. The composer, performer, and scholar has created work spanning classical orchestral pieces, rock anthems, jazz compositions, and civil rights tributes. Following his interests beat by beat, measure by measure, has resulted in a body of work of hundreds of individual compositions, each unique and…

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255. The Silent Genius Problem: Why Smart Professionals Hold Back 24:09

17d ago24:09

24:09

In this episode, Susan breaks down why analytical, detail-oriented professionals stay quiet in meetings, even when they have valuable insights, and how to change that pattern for good. You'll learn why silence feels safer than speaking, the emotional experience behind "freezing," and what really stops highly intelligent people from contributing. Su…

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The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: A History in Lights 47:18

18d ago47:18

47:18

The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree has brought joy and sparkle to Midtown Manhattan since the early 1930s. The annual festivities may seem steady and timeless but this holiday icon actually has a surprisingly dramatic history. Millions tune in each year to watch the tree lighting in a music-filled ceremony on NBC, and tens of thousands more will…

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Episode 272 - November 3 to November 5 2025 - Getting Romantic (not like that) 1:45:56

18d ago1:45:56

1:45:56

Jeopardy! recaps from the week of November 3, 2025. We continue our long-standing feud about New York-centric trivia, Emily pops off about girl scout badges, and Kyle puts those music degrees to use with a deep dive on Romanticism and Romantic composers. Find us on Facebook (Potent Podables). Check out our Patreon (patreon.com/potentpodables). Emai…

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Creator Chats - Joe Fisher and Gabriel Urbina on "The Harbingers" 1:17:43

19d ago1:17:43

1:17:43

Please enjoy this chat between Joe and Gabriel Urbina, creator of Wolf 359 and the new show "The Harbingers," then stick around to hear the first episode! More about The Harbingers: Adam Blackwell is the most powerful man in the world. But he hasn't always been. Five years ago he was just a humble grad student at Sinclair University. How did he go …

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Rising Phoenix Farm Cultivates Art, Qi & Community -📍 Washougal, WA 23:16

21d ago23:16

23:16

Nestled just outside Washougal, Rising Phoenix is more than just a farm with a great view of Mt. Hood. It's a sanctuary for healing, creativity, and community connection all working under the nonprofit aptly named "Embrace Qi." Yvonne Gee, the co-creator of this haven, is the magician behind the movement, envisioning these few acres as a space wher…

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Chapter 46: The Ragdoll 2:04:18

21d ago2:04:18

2:04:18

“We can do this, Peter.” Fiona - Tess Segal Libuza - Shelly Darrington Dr. Caberant - John Leatherman Kathryn - Rebekah McLoughlin Voon - Leeman Kessler Philip Buck - Edward Selvey IV Brickhouse - Michael Thoms P3t3r - Joe Fisher Written by Joe Fisher Directed and Produced by Joe Fisher and Finlay Stevenson Episode art by Juichee Music: Unseen Forc…

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#472 The Many Mysteries of Amelia Earhart 1:09:36

25d ago1:09:36

1:09:36

The aviation hero Amelia Earhart, who became one of the world's most famous women during the Great Depression, is one of those historic figures that people think they know quite well. But during her lifetime, much of her public image was the product of a New York book publisher. And even today, Earhart's legacy is reduced down to seemingly strange …

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254: Stop Blending In: The Real Reason Some Professionals Shine and Others Disappear 19:34

25d ago19:34

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Do you ever wonder why some professionals seem to light up every room while others go unnoticed? It's not luck. It's presence, and it's a skill you can master. In this episode, I break down five key areas that make high-achievers unforgettable in business and social settings: visibility, understanding others, polish and etiquette, a powerful pre-ga…

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353 Sophy Burnam: The Inner Experience of Being Old 31:28

27d ago31:28

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Sophy Burnham has lived many creative lives—and she’s still expanding. Known as a deeply imaginative and award-winning author, Sophy has written 17 books across genres: novels and nonfiction, children’s stories, poetry, plays and radio dramas, essays, and journalism. Her groundbreaking 1990 New York Times bestseller, A Book of Angels, sparked a cul…

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Episode 271 - 27 October to 31 October 2025 - Tedious and Labyrinthine and Bewildering 1:35:50

27d ago1:35:50

1:35:50

Jeopardy! recaps from the week of October 27th, 2025. We discuss *adult* topics, Halloween uncertainty, and Emily dives deep into the obscenity trials of Ulysses. Find us on Facebook (Potent Podables). Check out our Patreon (patreon.com/potentpodables). Email us at [email protected]. Continue to support social justice movements in your c…

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Banyan Tree Movies Studio Produces Untold Stories -📍 Battle Ground, WA 21:05

28d ago21:05

21:05

Off the beaten track in rural Battle Ground, WA, an unexpected cinematic treasure has taken root. Banyan Tree Movies is bringing something unique to the Pacific Northwest film industry: a specialized production house focused on historically accurate films about Asia from the 1930s to 1960s. 🗺️ Visit them at: banyantreemovies.com | Battle Ground Fil…

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Episode 51- Fablecraft 1:00:31

1M ago1:00:31

1:00:31

We get into a game/TTRPG hybrid! #ttrpg #podcast #rpg

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Episode 270 - 19 October to 23 October 2025 - Khan Trails 1:32:57

1M ago1:32:57

1:32:57

Jeopardy! recaps from the week of October 23, 2025. Emily shares the most boring wikipedia game ever, we regrettably will never get to learn about Nellie Bly, and Kyle brings us a deep dive on Kublai Khan. Find us on Facebook (Potent Podables). Check out our Patreon (patreon.com/potentpodables). Email us at [email protected]. Continue to…

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253. From Survival Mode to Social Ease: The Secret Anxiety Hiding Behind Success 23:11

1M ago23:11

23:11

In this episode, Susan responds to a listener's inquiry about social confidence in professional situations, and she breaks down the hidden side of high-level leadership: social anxiety that shows up as overthinking, self-doubt, and the quiet fear of looking stupid. You'll discover why this pattern often begins in childhood, how it plays out in your…

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352 Karen Gershowitz: Inspiring Older Women to Travel the World—Solo Too 31:28

1M ago31:28

31:28

At 17, Karen Gershowitz caught the travel bug—and never looked back. She’s now explored 100 countries, often returning to dig deeper than the “Disney Lands” most tourists see. Her love of discovery led her from ceramics to international marketing and, eventually, to writing about her adventures. In her books, Travel Mania: Stories of Wanderlust and…

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How the Art Gets Made: Inside Open Studios 2025 -📍 Clark County, WA 23:51

1M ago23:51

23:51

Grab your map, your coffee, and your most art-curious friend… Clark County Open Studios is back! Over 50 artists are opening their homes, barns, and studios for this free, annual, self-guided tour. See works in progress, meet the makers, and maybe find a perfect piece to fill an empty corner. We’re invited to snoop around and see how the art gets m…

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Welcome to the Horizon 2.1: New in Town 1:34:56

1M ago1:34:56

1:34:56

"Frank! Great News! Steve has a plan!" Cast: June - Melody Bridges Snorts Ma Gorts - Jesse Tilley GeeGaa - Randi Spears Cyborg Jimmy - Cooper Shaw Edgy Steve - Jessica Mudd Deidre - Tina Case Verge - Cat Blackard Flat Doug - Keith Cable Tavrok Stormbringer - Ian Ferguson Frank - Benjamin Burdick Trinkett - Camille Smicker Celeste - Cooper Shaw Priv…

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Rodgers and Hammerstein: Some Enchanted Broadway History 57:15

1M ago57:15

57:15

Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II are two of the greatest entertainers in New York City history. They have delighted millions of people with their unique and influential take on the Broadway musical — serious, sincere, graceful and poignant. In the process they have helped in elevating New York’s Theater District into a critical destination …

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252. How to Be Effortlessly Magnetic: 3 Tiny Habits That Transform How People Experience You 17:53

1M ago17:53

17:53

Some people just have "It". That easy, natural charisma that draws others in, while others, equally smart and accomplished, struggle to make the same impression. In this episode, Susan breaks down the three subtle habits that make people instantly likable, memorable, and magnetic, without pretending, over-giving, or performing. You'll learn: · How …

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351 Judy Smith: Discomfort & Humiliation Changed the Trajectory of Her Life 31:03

1M ago31:03

31:03

Judy Smith discovered that 70 would be the best year of her life after a devastating public humiliation at 67 by her now ex. Allowing herself to open up to new relationships, social engagement and creative expression, she discovered that life became richer and she felt blessed as gratitude filled her soul. No stranger to discomfort, Judy previously…

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Amboy's Living History: North Clark Museum at 25 -📍 Amboy, WA 21:22

1M ago21:22

21:22

On the main drag of tiny Amboy, Washington, the North Clark Historical Museum stands as a testament to the community’s dedication to the preservation and celebration of local heritage. This year marks the museum's 25th anniversary, celebrating a quarter-century of showcasing the rich history of North Clark County, from indigenous communities who me…

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251. How Successful Professionals Battle Social Anxiety (and Win) 19:29

1M ago19:29

19:29

What if success didn't erase your social anxiety, it just made it harder to talk about? In this powerful solo episode, the truth is revealed about the polished confidence of high-achieving professionals in finance, STEM, and leadership. You'll learn why success and social anxiety often coexist, and how to finally break the overthinking, perfectioni…

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350 Jan Golden: Jokes About Getting Older are Getting Old 27:56

2M ago27:56

27:56

Jan Golden is a one-woman force when it comes to changing how the media and greeting card agencies represent aging. For 4 years, Age-Friendly Vibes has featured cards, buttons, stickers and prints that reflect pro-aging sentiments. Active in the American Society on Aging, Changing the Narrative and the American Greeting Card Association, Jan’s pass…

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A Gift to our City: Día de Muertos Festival Takes Center Stage -📍 Vancouver, WA 23:47

2M ago23:47

23:47

This weekend is the annual Día de Muertos Festival, brought to our community by Vancouver Ballet Folklórico. VBF is more than just a traditional Mexican dance company; it's a vibrant community hub, a cultural touchstone, and a place where heritage thrives. Led by the dynamic mother-daughter duo Anna and Marianna Cruz, Vancouver Ballet Folklórico is…

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Chapter 45: The Builder 2:17:58

2M ago2:17:58

2:17:58

"What if we can't stop him?" Cast Libuza - Shelly Darrington Leif - Tom Moorman Even Older Leif - Tom Moorman Brie-elzebub - Fritz Najera Battlepope - Mike Thoms Bugaboo - Mike Thoms Potion Maestro - Jesse Tilley Hannes - Joel Gelman KatKat - Allison Shoemaker Terrwyn - Kate Coventry Verge - Cat Blackard Eldin - Joe Fisher Written by Joe Fisher Dir…

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#471 Ghost Stories of Long Island 1:33:41

2M ago1:33:41

1:33:41

For this year's annual Bowery Boys Ghost Stories podcast, Greg and Tom take a road trip to Long Island to explore the region's most famous haunted tales from legend and folklore, 'real' reported stories of otherworldly encounters that have shaped this historic area of New York state. When you think of Long Island and scary stories, your mind might …

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250. The New Edge: Interpersonal Excellence Over Technical Expertise 18:51

2M ago18:51

18:51

In this episode, discover why intelligence and technical expertise which were once career superpowers are no longer enough to set you apart at the highest levels. In this episode I'll reveal the game-changing truth: social confidence and interpersonal skills are now the real differentiators in powerful careers and leadership. Tune in as I break dow…

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349 Phyllis Rubin: Practicing Tikkun Olam—Repairing the World 31:15

2M ago31:15

31:15

At 81, Phyllis Rubin embodies tikkun olam—repairing the world. After her husband’s death, and during the pandemic and political upheaval, she stepped fully into activism. A “feet-on-the-ground” leader, with a collaborative style, Phyllis champions progressive politics, environmental sustainability, and vital community living for older adults. She e…

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Episode 269 - 29 September to 3 October 2025 - 1:37:26

2M ago1:37:26

1:37:26

By potentpodables

2M ago1:22:02

1:22:02

On October 26, 1825, the fate of New York City – and the entire United States – changed with the opening of the Erie Canal, a manmade waterway that connected the Hudson River to Lake Erie. It was the most significant engineering project of its time, linking the ocean to the nation’s interior -- a 363-mile route from Albany to Lake Erie. Without eve…