Best The French Compass Podcasts (2025)

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Child Poverty, with Baroness Ruth Lister | ep. 127 57:57

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3d ago57:57

57:57

The government’s child poverty taskforce is set to release its findings imminently. But with a country that needs widespread reform at-large, what are the necessary steps in tackling child poverty? A new report by Baroness Ruth Lister, and published by Compass, argues for a radical set of new policies ranging from direct provisions, social welfare …

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793 Aegean Turkey; Florence & Tuscany; Denmark Beyond Copenhagen 52:00

4d ago52:00

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Expert tour guides share advice for exploring the ancient ruins and seaside villages along Turkey's Aegean coast, the Renaissance wonders of Florence, the sun-drenched Tuscan countryside, and charming Danish towns and islands easily reached on day trips from Copenhagen. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode description…

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AbraCasaBra legt u alles uit over het verkrijgen van een hypotheek in Spanje 25:03

7d ago25:03

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Ben je van plan om een huis te kopen in het prachtige zuiden van Spanje, maar wil je een gedeeltelijke financiering van een bank? Dan moet je naar deze podcast luisteren...! Het is tegenwoordig veel moeilijker geworden om een hypotheek te krijgen. In onze podcast laten we je zien hoe je je kansen op een hypotheek drastisch kunt vergroten. Luister d…

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792 Remember Us; The Greater Journey 52:00

12d ago52:00

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We hear how the Dutch continue to remember and honor the servicemen who helped liberate their towns in 1945. And we revisit a conversation with the late historian David McCullough about the influential "Americans in Paris" of the 19th century, who returned home with skills that helped transform life in the US. For more information on Travel with Ri…

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EP116 Guilt vs. Truth: One Keeps You Stuck, the Other Sets You Free 36:13

18d ago36:13

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Guilt is one of the most common emotions parents face when their child is struggling with addiction, but is it always telling the truth? In this episode, I’m sharing some personal reflections and hard-won realizations about guilt: how it became my default emotion, how it blocked me from feeling what was actually true, and what happened when I final…

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A Decade of Radical Renewal | ep. 126 57:32

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On this episode of It’s Bloody Complicated, listeners will get a sneak peek of the debate and discussion set to take place at Compass’ upcoming national conference, CHANGE: HOW? A Decade of Radical Renewal, on Saturday 31st May. Last summer, Labour was returned to government promising to deliver ‘a decade of national renewal’. Whilst some positive …

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683a English Country Gardens; On Becoming a Gardener; In Praise of Wasting Time 52:00

19d ago52:00

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English tour guides share their enthusiasm for enjoying the riot of color and inspiration you'll find in England's best country gardens. Then author Catie Marron explains how she designed and planted a garden as a way to feel a sense of belonging in her new home. And physicist Alan Lightman explains why it's healthy to give yourself a little unstru…

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791 Scottish Castles; Mars on Earth; Checking In 52:00

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Scottish tour guides tell us about the most famous castles in a country that's brimming with the imposing structures. Then a Santiago-based American travel writer embarks on a 1,200-mile odyssey through one of the driest places on earth — Chile's Atacama Desert — as he searches for a deeper understanding of his adopted homeland. And listeners call …

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790 Oneika Raymond's Favorite Destinations; US Aid; A Week in Poland 52:00

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Journalist Oneika Raymond reveals the top countries where, as a black woman traveling solo, she feels a cultural appreciation and connection. Then the head of Bread for the World describes how the organization's advocacy work has stepped up its efforts in the face of cuts to government aid programs. And tour guides from Poland give us a look at how…

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EP115 Q&A Should I Kick Them Out? 27:12

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Today we’re tackling one of the most painful questions parents face when their child is struggling with substance use - "Should I kick them out?" You’ll hear why this question is far more complicated than it’s often made out to be and why it deserves careful thought, not quick advice based on outdated, stigmatized ideas like "tough love" or "rock b…

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Renewal | ep. 125 1:00:14

1M ago1:00:14

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Since its launch in 1992 Renewal: A Journal of Social Democracy has consistently advanced and examined the conditions for a radical and emancipatory vision of social democracy. And now, with its historic ties to Compass Director Neal Lawson and a background of offering new policies, paradigms and strategies to an international readership of citizen…

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673a Visiting Antarctica; The Journeys of Trees; Italy's Northern Lakes 52:00

1M ago52:00

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A travel writer shares how a trip to Antarctica helped him see that continent through the eyes of the early polar explorers. Then a reporter focused on climate change and conservation explains how some North American tree species are migrating to survive the planet's rising temperatures. And two Italy-based tour guides take us to the resort lakes o…

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789 Easter in Greece; Pillars of Europe; Easter in Andalucía 52:00

2M ago52:00

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Learn about the customs that Greeks observe as Orthodox Easter draws near. Then contemplate the massive undertaking of building a cathedral centuries ago and how these monuments to faith and devotion helped shape their locales. And get acquainted with southern Spain's elaborate Semana Santa observances, which fill the streets of Andalucía in the we…

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Maybe I'm Amazed - John Harris | ep. 124 57:19

2M ago57:19

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In a recent substack post, John Harris said that ‘the itch to write’ his new book Maybe I’m Amazed ‘arrived not long after the General Election of 2019’: I’d chewed over writing a book about the turns Britain had taken since the Brexit referendum three years before, but I had the feeling that a)The story had got too grim and relentless to return to…

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EP114 Our Kids Don’t Steal Our Peace – We Give It Away 18:29

2M ago18:29

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For years, I lived with my peace tied directly to my daughter Helanna’s addiction. When she struggled, I felt powerless, sick, exhausted, and consumed by fear. But everything began to shift when I realized that peace isn’t something that can be stolen—it’s something we either protect or give away. Even in the most heartbreaking moments, I discovere…

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788 Spain by Train; Foreign Correspondent; The Lines on Our Maps 52:00

2M ago52:00

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Hear from tour guides about Spain's robust high-speed rail network and all the places it can take you. Then hit the road vicariously with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nicholas Kristof for a taste of life as a foreign correspondent. And take a closer look at the surprising and fascinating ways in which borders have shaped our world. For more in…

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787 Twenty Years; The Vanishing Point; Martin Sheen's Travels 52:00

2M ago52:00

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Rick marks 20 years of his radio show by revisiting some memorable guests and what they've taught us about travel. Then author Paul Theroux celebrates his 84th birthday as he contemplates the passage of time in his new short-story collection, "The Vanishing Point." And actor Martin Sheen describes how his experiences filming overseas have come to i…

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How do we pay for it? With Erin Mansell and Stewart Lansley | ep. 123 1:00:04

2M ago1:00:04

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On this episode of It’s Bloody Complicated, ahead of the upcoming spring statement from the Treasury, we asked the perennial question: how could we pay for it? A lot of our vision of a good society rests on changing the narrative around fiscal rules and economic constraints, perhaps raising more money for the state, but certainly diverting the mone…

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696a For the Love of Guidebooks; The Gulf; Greatest Art in Europe 52:00

2M ago52:00

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Europe brims with world-class art, and we contemplate some of the continent's truly outstanding paintings, sculptures, and historic edifices. Then we learn about the historic and ecological importance of the Gulf of Mexico from a professor in neighboring Florida. And we consider the humble guidebook and what its pages can tell us, both in the momen…

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786 Greek Passions; In Love with the Louvre; Balkan Discoveries 52:00

2M ago52:00

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A tour guide from Greece delves into the importance of food, family, and traditions in his homeland. Then a Francophile offers advice on how to take on the vast collection of the world's largest — and arguably greatest — museum. And guidebook researcher Cameron Hewitt shares discoveries from his travels in the Balkans, an affordable and rewarding a…

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EP113 The Hidden Judgment in Pity—And How Switching To Compassion Builds Connection 27:35

3M ago27:35

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There is a crucial difference between pity and compassion—and this distinction can deeply impact your relationship with your child. When we pity our kids, we see them as helpless victims, stripping them of their agency and reinforcing our own feelings of hopelessness. But compassion is different—it sees their struggles without defining them by them…

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Has Labour outgrown net-zero? | ep 122 1:01:22

3M ago1:01:22

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We were delighted to be joined by Will McCallum, co-executive director of Greenpeace and Tessa Khan, executive director of Uplift. Last year was the first calendar year to globally reach more than 1.5°C of warming above pre-industrial levels. It was also the first year that renewables surpassed fossil fuels in the UK electricity mix. With a new Lab…

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785 Irish Legacy of W. B. Yeats; 1960s Ireland; Touring Northern Ireland 52:00

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Two countrymen explore Ireland's reverence for their national poet, W. B. Yeats. Then a Dublin journalist shares what it was like to grow up amid the turbulent societal changes in his city during the 1960s and '70s. And a guide from Belfast tells us why an Emerald Isle itinerary should include a visit to Northern Ireland. For more information on Tr…

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625a Snowdonia; Outposts; Natural Slovenia 52:00

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Delve into the remote outposts and refuges across the globe where travelers have stopped along the course of their adventures. Then hear about the highest views in Wales — and how to reach them — and learn about the country's slate mining heritage. And from Alps to caves, vineyards to beehives, catch the buzz of the natural wonders on display in Sl…

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German Election Special | ep. 121 1:05:57

3M ago1:05:57

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It’s been said that German elections are usually dull affairs. Well, whether that’s been true in the past, it’s certainly not true this time – it’s bloody complicated. The result Sunday 23rd, brought success for the CDU/CSU conservatives, with 28.6% of the votes and 208 seats, followed by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) who won 20.8% an…

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784 Rhineland Karneval; WMF 2025 Watch List; Top Alaska Experiences 52:00

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Look at what's behind Carnival and Mardi Gras celebrations around the world by learning about the festive season's origins and customs in Germany's Rhineland. Then hear what's been added to the World Monuments Fund's latest "watch list" of endangered cultural sites around the world. And get recommendations for must-see experiences in Alaska, along …

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783 British Pubs; Why I Love Brittany; Custodians of Wonder 52:00

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Two English tour guides explain what Brits mean by a "rough and ready" pub and how to find some of the UK's best pub grub. Then a father-and-son tour-guiding duo invite us to fall in love with their favorite corner of France. And BBC journalist Eliot Stein shares insights from his travels in search of the world's oldest disappearing traditions, giv…

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EP112 How Making Whole Helps Men In Early Recovery Rebuild Their Lives: Guest Jeremy French 42:50

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In this episode, Heather interviews Jeremy French, the founder of Making Whole, an organization that fills a critical gap in the addiction recovery treatment system. While traditional recovery programs often focus on short-term stabilization, Making Whole provides the missing piece—long-term support through meaningful work, mentorship, and personal…

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The French New Popular Front | ep. 120 1:01:35

4M ago1:01:35

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In July 2024 the New Popular Front (NFP), a coalition of left-wing parties, came out on top in a snap general election in France, winning 193 seats in the National Assembly. The centrist bloc supporting President Emmanuel Macron got 166 seats, the far-right National Rally (RN) 142, and the center-right Republicans forty-seven. A progressive allianc…

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395b Monet's Passion; The French House; Marrying Into Italy 52:00

4M ago52:00

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Listen in as an artist who helped restore Monet's gardens explains why the French painter first created these colorful gardens at his house outside Paris. Then hear how renovating a house on an island off the coast of Brittany can feed your wild side. And find out what happens when you marry an Italian…and your new in-laws live next door. Plus, an …

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EP111 The Truth About Codependency and Enabling 11:08

4M ago11:08

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In this heartfelt episode, Heather shares her perspective on the damaging labels of codependent and enabler that are often placed on parents. She explains why these labels are not only unhelpful but also undermine a parent's natural instincts—instincts that are, in fact, a powerful tool for connection and support. Heather emphasizes that parents do…

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782 Prague vs. Budapest; What's New in Lisbon 52:00

4M ago52:00

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This week we explore three of the most charming — and most popular — of Europe's Old World cities: Two tour guides get cheeky as they make the case for which of their own hometowns — Prague or Budapest — offer the best experiences for visitors with limited time in central Europe. And expert locals catch us up on changes afoot in Lisbon, offering st…

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EP110 How To Make Sense of Behaviors That Don’t Make Sense (To You) Pt 2 27:12

4M ago27:12

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In the last episode, we explored why our kids can excel in unexpected areas—like chess, gas prices, or mental math—but struggle with everyday tasks like making a phone call or getting to an appointment on time. We looked at the brain science behind these inconsistencies and how substance use impacts different cognitive functions. But now comes the …

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EP109 How To Make Sense of Behaviors That Don’t Make Sense (To You) Pt 1 18:27

4M ago18:27

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Have you ever felt completely baffled by your child’s behavior? Maybe they can play chess skillfully but can’t seem to get ready for an appointment on time. Maybe they have zero concept of time but can tell you the gas prices at every station in town. These inconsistencies can feel frustrating and even personal—like they don’t care or aren’t trying…

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119. A New Settlement for Water 1:05:20

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Britain’s infrastructure is struggling. We’ve seen stories of concrete falling down in schools, unreliable public transport, and an NHS at breaking point after chronic neglect and the Covid-19 pandemic. But little has captured people’s attention and activism like the damage and disrepair of our sewage system and the disastrous decisions of the comp…

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781 Potsdam; Emperor of Rome; On the Hippie Trail 52:00

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We hear why the city of Potsdam — home to elegant Prussian palaces and parklands, all in quick reach of central Berlin — is worth a day's visit. Then we get a sense of what life was really like for the emperors of ancient Rome, with the help of classicist Mary Beard. And we travel back to 1978 with Rick and his longtime buddy Gene Openshaw as they …

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602a How Berlin Remembers; Turkish Delights; Travel to Bhutan 52:00

4M ago52:00

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Two German tour guides let us in on the back story behind Berlin's most memorable monuments to their country's turbulent history. Then two Turks tuck into a discussion of the traditional Turkish street eats, comfort foods, and desserts they recommend for a tasty visit to Istanbul. And an American who met — then married — a local artist in Bhutan sh…

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EP108 Q&A How Can I Live a Happy Life Knowing My Child Might Die? 21:12

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When we have a child struggling, it’s easy to feel like our happiness is tied to theirs. That belief, often summed up in the phrase, "You’re only as happy as your unhappiest child," can leave us feeling powerless and overwhelmed. Butwhat if letting go of that belief could create more peace, joy, and connection—not just for you, but for your child a…

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Electoral jenga, sandcastle majorities, and polling on thin ice w/ Rob Ford | ep. 118 1:02:49

5M ago1:02:49

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For our first podcast of 2025, Neal and Lena were be joined by Rob Ford to discuss electoral chaos, First Past the Post and political instability, his recent work, and our recent publication Thin Ice. Rob Ford is a Professor of Political Science, and author of “Brexitland”, “The British General Election of 2019” and “Sex, Lies and Politics”. Suppor…

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780 Miami Getaway; Scottish Icons; Robert Burns Night 52:00

5M ago52:00

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Travel Channel host Oneika Raymond recommends her favorite Miami neighborhoods to explore on a sunny getaway. Then friends from Scotland discuss the uniquely Scottish cultural icons that reinforce the small nation's strong sense of identity. And just in time for Burns Night, Perthshire-based troubadour Jim Malcolm explains what Robert Burns' poetry…

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EP107 Siblings Supporting a Brother or Sister Struggling with Addiction - Guest Dominique Dajer from For Love of Recovery 40:05

5M ago40:05

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In this episode, Heather welcomes Dominique, founder andhost of the podcast For Love of Recovery, which focuses on helping siblings navigate the challenges of having a brother or sister struggling with substance use. Together, they dive into the unique experiences that siblings face, which are often overlooked. Dominique shares her personal journey…

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779 Bristol; Barcelona; Bruges 52:00

5M ago52:00

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Consider three distinctly different styles of historic European cities as we hear how Bristol has transformed itself from an industrial and maritime powerhouse into a creative center for the southwest of England — and how it rewards visitors who set aside at least a day for this city just a half-hour from well-touristed Bath. Then learn from a loca…

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778 Pura Vida; Morocco's Best Cities; More Travel Pursuits 52:00

5M ago52:00

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The author of a guidebook to Costa Rica discusses what the phrase "pura vida" conveys amid the tropical abundance of her adopted Central American eco-paradise. Then a Morocco expert and fellow guidebook writer recommends the best cities for immersing yourself in the Old World atmosphere of Morocco's intimate, car-free medina neighborhoods. And fell…

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777 History of the Snowman; Visiting the Vatican; Champagne; Edinburgh New Year's 52:00

5M ago52:00

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The "world's leading snowman expert" joins Rick to explore the somewhat dark — and certainly cold — origins of the tradition of building snowmen, and what Frosty and his ilk have come to mean across different societies. Then two Rome-based tour guides unpack some of the cultural treasures crammed into the world's tiniest country, while sharing tips…

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BONUS: Practical Hope 52:32

5M ago52:32

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Support the show Enjoyed the podcast and want to be a live audience member at our next episode? Want to have the chance in raising questions to the panelist? Support our work and be a part of the Compass community. Become a member! You can find us on Twitter at @CompassOffice.By Compass

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698a Ready for Christmas Near and Far; Wassailing 52:00

6M ago52:00

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Rick gathers some old friends to hear about their childhood Christmases in Spain, Italy, and New Mexico. Then he brings in more friends to describe what you're likely to find this time of year in Austria, Australia, Japan…and Antarctica. Plus, a Brit from Bath explains how the English tradition of wassailing developed as a way to guarantee a good a…