Town Square with Ernie Manouse

Houston Public Media

Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues — a place for the audience to share personal opinions and have the opportunity to ask questions of leading experts on any given subject.

Through lively conversations, ranging from issues of race to the coronavirus, we strive to keep our listeners well-informed and educated. The ability to listen and share is what moves a society forward… together!

You can listen to Town Square with Ernie Manouse every weekday at 3pm on News 88.7.

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Episodes

Town Square Says Goodbye…
Aug 11 2023
Town Square Says Goodbye…
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk. Today, August 11, 2023, is the final episode of Town Square with Ernie Manouse. For the full hour, we’re joined by a panel consisting of psychologist Dr. Jeff Temple, epidemiologist Dr. Catherine Troisi, and local author and teacher Jennifer Mathieu to reminisce and celebrate this show for all it set out to do during its time on the air. Plus, we hear from many of our most frequent and impactful guests who have helped this show achieve its mission over its run as they share their recollections and discuss what made it special. Special thanks to Andrew Schneider, Charles “Rocky” Rhodes, Cissy Segall Davis, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Lauren Anderson, Dr. William Haseltine, Dr. James McDeavitt, Dietrich von Biedenfeld, Dr. Melanye Price, Dr. Peter Hotez, Sen. Paul Bettencourt, Dr. Susan McLellan, Pete Makopoulos-Senftleber, Vanessa Gilmore, Dr. Chris Bronk, and Rep. Sylvia Garcia for joining and writing to us on our final episode. Staff and crew at Town Square are all moving on to new projects at Houston Public Media and look forward to sharing with you again soon.   Guests:                                                                                Dr. Jeff Temple PsychologistVice Dean for Research and Scholarship at the School of Nursing, UTMB HealthThe John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health, UTMB HealthDirector of the Center for Violence Prevention, UTMB Health Dr. Catherine Troisi Infectious Disease Epidemiologist, UTHealth Houston School of Public Health Jennifer Mathieu Local TeacherLocal Author of Seven YA Novels and an Upcoming Adult Novel (set in Houston) Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
The Science of Sleep: Bedtime Routines, Getting Better Rest, and More; Plus, “Ain’t Too Proud” Star Harrell Holmes Jr.
Aug 9 2023
The Science of Sleep: Bedtime Routines, Getting Better Rest, and More; Plus, “Ain’t Too Proud” Star Harrell Holmes Jr.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk. Dreams do come true. Harrell Holmes Jr., grew up wanting to be a Temptation, and today, he is making that a reality as he stars as Melvin Franklin in the national tour of the high energy musical Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations, which tells the story of the music group’s rise to fame. Holmes Jr. talks with us about how his love of The Temptations began, his career from being featured on Star Search and American Idol to performing on stage in Ain’t Too Proud, as well as what audiences can expect from the show. Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations is playing at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts in Houston until Sunday, August 13, 2023. For more information, click here. Then, we discuss the science of sleep with neurologist and sleep specialist Dr. Chris Winter. He explains the importance of bedtime rituals to remain consistent in the time you wake up and go to bed, the amount of sleep we need as adults, better habits for falling asleep for those who are having difficulties or experiencing insomnia, and more.   Guests: Harrell Holmes Jr. Singer, Dancer, ActorPlays Melvin Franklin in Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations Dr. Chris Winter Neurologist & Sleep SpecialistAuthor, The Rested Child: Why Your Tired, Wired, or Irritable Child May Have a Sleep Disorder and How To Help and The Sleep Solution: Why Your Sleep is Broken and How To Fix ItHost, Sleep Unplugged Podcast Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Author Lynn Melnick on Surviving Loss and Trauma and How the Music of Dolly Parton Helped Her Reclaim Her Voice
Aug 8 2023
Author Lynn Melnick on Surviving Loss and Trauma and How the Music of Dolly Parton Helped Her Reclaim Her Voice
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk. For the full hour, we talk with author Lynn Melnick about her memoir I've Had to Think Up a Way to Survive: On Trauma, Persistence, and Dolly Parton, which details her journey of survival and recovery in the wake of loss and trauma guided by the songs of country music icon Dolly Parton. Melnick explains what motivated her to write the book, how she found inspiration in the music of Dolly Parton to overcome the struggles in her own life, and how every chapter explores the cultural issues at the heart of Parton’s songs and how they relate to Melnick’s life. Plus, Melnick weighs in on the issues plaguing women today, how she views healing from trauma, and how creativity and storytelling can be pivotal to our survival and growth. I've Had to Think Up a Way to Survive: On Trauma, Persistence, and Dolly Parton is available now in paperback wherever books are sold.   Guest: Lynn Melnick Author, I've Had to Think Up a Way to Survive: On Trauma, Persistence, and Dolly PartonAssistant Professor of Poetry, Columbia University Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
“Talk of the Town”: Houston Restaurant Weeks
Aug 4 2023
“Talk of the Town”: Houston Restaurant Weeks
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk. Dine out and do good: Houston Restaurant Weeks is the city's most anticipated foodie event of the year. Since it was founded in 2003, it has become the largest event of its kind in the U.S. and raised 18.8 million dollars to date. First, we speak with Katie Stone, President of The Cleverly Stone Foundation, who explains what diners can expect for this year’s 20th anniversary of the annual fundraiser, including top Houston restaurants, award-winning chefs, and a variety of cuisines.   Then, chefs and restaurateurs David Cordúa, owner of The Lymbar, and MasterChef season three winner Christine Ha, owner of The Blind Goat, Xin Chao, Stuffed Belly, joined the conversation. The panel weighs in on the importance of Houston Restaurant Weeks, what they will be serving up to patrons from their respective restaurants, the economics of restaurants today, the food culture of Houston, and more. To watch The Houston Cookbook special, hosted by David Cordúa, click here.  To watch the Arts Insight package, featuring Christine Ha, click here.    Guests: Katie Stone President, The Cleverley Stone FoundationHouston Restaurant Weeks David Cordúa Owner, The Lymbar Christine Ha Chef & Owner, The Blind Goat, Xin Chao, and Stuffed BellyWinner of MasterChef Season 3 Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
“Talk of the Town”: Ageism, National Identity, Cultural Appropriation, and More; Plus, “Haunted Mansion” Director Justin Simien
Jul 28 2023
“Talk of the Town”: Ageism, National Identity, Cultural Appropriation, and More; Plus, “Haunted Mansion” Director Justin Simien
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk. First, we speak with film director and Houston native Justin Simien who discusses his new film Haunted Mansion, a new film adaptation based on the Walt Disney theme park attraction of the same name. Simien discusses his approach to helming a film based on a theme park ride. Haunted Mansion is available now, only in theaters. Then, we shift to “Talk of the Town” where our panel of guests weigh in on trending headlines of the week. Today’s panel consists of singer and semi-finalist on America’s Got Talent Christina Wells, Fashion and Lifestyle Blogger of MyRedGlasses Roz Pactor, and writer and activist Tony Diaz. Our guests share their thoughts on ageism amidst health concerns over Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell suddenly freezing during a press briefing this week, how we see ourselves as a nation in today’s age of political divisiveness, cultural appropriation vs. inspiration, and more.   Guests: Justin Simien   Director, Haunted Mansion (2023) Christina Wells Singer, Actor, and Motivational Speaker2018 Semi-Finalist on “America’s Got Talent” Roz Pactor Fashion and Marketing ConsultantFashion and Lifestyle Blogger, “My Red Glasses” Tony Diaz WriterDirector of Nuestra Palabra, Latino Writers Having Their Say Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Ask the Lawyer: Plea Deals, Truth & Law, and More
Jul 27 2023
Ask the Lawyer: Plea Deals, Truth & Law, and More
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk. First, we speak with Attorney John Raley of John Raley & Associates, about his acting role in the classic Agatha Christie trial drama Witness for the Prosecution as well as how the theatre inspired him to practice law. Witness for the Prosecution, presented by Cone Man Running Productions, is playing Friday, July 28 – Saturday, August 12, 2023, at Studio 101 in Houston. For more information, click here. Then, we “Ask the Lawyer” as Raley is joined by his law partner and wife, attorney Kelly Raley. The pair share their legal expertise to help us better understand the legal issues we’re witnessing in news headlines, including understanding how a plea deal works, after Hunter Biden’s deal was put on hold. The Raleys also discuss truth in regards to the law, the legality of recording someone without their consent, whether someone can sue a company if their product causes them harm, and much more.  Plus, they take listeners' calls to answer their various legal questions.   Guests: John Raley Trial LawyerAttorney, John Raley & Associates Kelly Raley Attorney, John Raley & Associates Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
The Latest in Politics: Texas’ Floating Border Barrier, Hunter Biden, Houston Mayoral Race, and More
Jul 26 2023
The Latest in Politics: Texas’ Floating Border Barrier, Hunter Biden, Houston Mayoral Race, and More
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk. The Department of Justice has sued Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and the state of Texas following his refusal to remove a barrier of floating buoys topped with razor wire along the border in the Rio Grande river. Representative Joaquin Castro of the 20th District of Texas joins the conversation to share his thoughts on this floating border barrier and the issues surrounding its existence. Rep. Castro is collecting suggestions for Latino films that should be added to the National Film Registry. If you would like to submit your suggestions, click here. Then, we’re joined by political science professors Dr. Jeronimo Cortina of University of Houston and Dr. Melanye Price of Prairie View A&M University, to discuss the latest news in national, state, and local politics. Our guests weigh in on Hunter Biden’s legal troubles, the current polling for the 2023 Houston Mayoral race, the recently passed HB 900 and how it will require book vendors to assign ratings to books based on the presence of depictions or references to sex, and what’s next for the future of Harris County elections.   Guests: Representative Joaquin Castro Congressman for the 20th District of Texas Dr. Jeronimo Cortina Associate Professor of Political Science, University of HoustonCo-Host, Houston Public Media’s Party Politics Dr. Melanye Price Endowed Professor of Political Science, Prairie View A&M UniversityDirector, Ruth J. Simmons Center for Race and Justice Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Diving Into the World of Sharks; Plus, Houston Museum of Natural Science’s Sharks! Exhibit
Jul 24 2023
Diving Into the World of Sharks; Plus, Houston Museum of Natural Science’s Sharks! Exhibit
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk. First, Nicole Temple, Vice President of Education at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, joins us to share details about the museum’s new exhibit Sharks! The Meg, The Monsters, & The Myths, and how it seeks to explore the history of sharks and debunk myths people have about them. Plus, Temple explains what museumgoers can find at the exhibit’s six galleries, including, physical interactives, touchable items, photo ops, live animals, a 50-foot Megalodon model, and much more. For more information on the exhibit, click here. Then, we’re joined by Jeff Kurr, Emmy nominated producer, cinematographer, and director for Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, and Marine Ecologist and Shark Researcher Dr. Neil Hammerschlag to discuss sharks, our fascination with them, and their relationship to humans. Kurr discusses his more than thirty years with Shark Week, what’s it’s like being in the water filming sharks, and what technology has allowed him to see and the places it’s allowed him to go in order to capture footage of sharks. Dr. Hammerschlag explains whether we’re seeing more sharks swimming closer to shore due to climate change, information about Shark behavior, and surprising facts.   Guests: Nicole Temple Vice President of Education, Houston Museum of Natural Science Jeff Kurr Emmy Nominated Producer, Cinematographer, and Director of Discovery Channel’s Shark Week Dr. Neil Hammerschlag Marine Ecologist & Shark ResearcherFounder, Atlantic Shark ExpeditionsInvestigator, Marine Biodiversity Observation Network Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
“Talk of the Town”: “The Venture Bros.” Creators, Summer Movies, “Barbenheimer”, and More
Jul 21 2023
“Talk of the Town”: “The Venture Bros.” Creators, Summer Movies, “Barbenheimer”, and More
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk. First, Brenda Valdivia talks with Doc Hammer and Jackson Publick, the co-creators of the long-running Adult Swim animated comedy series The Venture Bros. The pair reflect on their hit series and discuss their new film The Venture Bros.: Radiant Is the Blood of the Baboon Heart which is the conclusion of the series. Please note, this interview was conducted before the SAG-AFTRA strike. The Venture Bros.: Radiant Is the Blood of the Baboon Heart is available now on digital and will be available on Blu-ray on July 25, 2023. Then, we shift to “Talk of the Town” for a special Summer entertainment edition of our weekly series. Today’s panel consists of film journalist & critic Regina Scruggs, President of Houston Film Critics Society Travis Leamons, and President & CEO of Nexus Entertainment Greg Carter. The panel shares their thoughts on 2023 Summer movie releases, how a movie is considered a box-office flop in today’s film industry, what effects has streaming had on the moviegoing experience, the phenomenon of “Barbenheimer” referring to the highly anticipated simultaneous release of the films Barbie and Oppenheimer, and more.   Guests: Doc Hammer Co-Creator, The Venture Bros.Voice Actor for Hank Venture, The Monarch, Dr. Henry Killinger, and many more Jackson Publick Co-Creator, The Venture Bros.Voice Actor for Henchman 21, Billy Quizboy, Dr. Mrs. The Monarch, and many more Regina Scruggs Film Journalist, Lecturer & CriticFounding Member, Houston Film Critics Society Travis Leamons President, Houston Film Critics SocietyFilm Critic, FreshFiction.TV Greg Carter President & CEO, Nexus EntertainmentFilmmaker Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
The Hollywood Labor Strikes; Plus, the Latest on Current Labor Disputes in America
Jul 20 2023
The Hollywood Labor Strikes; Plus, the Latest on Current Labor Disputes in America
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk. On July 14, 2023, the labor union SAG-AFTRA began a strike against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), joining the Writers Guild of America (WGA). This marks the second time since the 1960s that two Hollywood labor unions are striking simultaneously. First, we speak with Dominic Patten, Senior Editor for Deadline Hollywood, who discusses the latest on the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, the issues brought up by the unions, and the responses we’ve seen from the studios and producers. Then, we’re joined by Art Wheaton, Director of Labor Studies at Cornell University’s ILR School, and Dr. Miranda Banks, Associate Professor from Loyola Marymount University, to share their thoughts on the Hollywood labor strikes, and other labor disputes in what’s being called the “Hot Labor Summer”. Plus, Orange is the New Black star Lea DeLaria, joins the conversation to discuss her participation in the SAG-AFTRA strike and thoughts on the issue of residual payments for actors.   Guests: Dominic Patten Senior Editor, Deadline Hollywood Art Wheaton Director of Labor Studies, School of Industrial and Labor Relations (ILR), Cornell University Dr. Miranda Banks Associate Professor and Chair of Film, Television and Media Studies, Loyola Marymount UniversityAuthor, The Writers: A History of American Screenwriters and Their Guild Lea DeLaria Actor, Comedian, and Jazz Singer Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Talking to Your Children About Sex
Jul 19 2023
Talking to Your Children About Sex
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk. Sooner or later, every parent must eventually have “The Talk” with their children about where babies come from, but the question of when to have the talk, how to have it, and what has changed about this conversation plagues many parents.  For the full hour, certified sex and relationship therapist Dr. Emily Jamea joins us, along with the founder and director of the online course Birds & Bees, Mary Flo Ridley and Megan Michelson, to share how parents can best approach this conversation with kids. Our guests also discuss the importance of teaching children about sex, setting and respecting boundaries between children and family members, and how technology has changed the conversation with new complexities in our world like online pornography, sexting, and sextortion. *Disclaimer: This show covers adult subject matter that may not be appropriate for all ages. The conversation is frank in nature and it contains sexual themes.   Guests: Dr. Emily Jamea Certified Sex and Relationship TherapistAuthor of the forthcoming book, “Anatomy of Desire: Five Secrets to Lasting Intimacy” Mary Flo Ridley Founder, Birds & Bees Megan Michelson Director, Birds & Bees Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
World Affairs: Janet Yellen’s Trip to China, Russia-Ukraine, France Protests, and More
Jul 17 2023
World Affairs: Janet Yellen’s Trip to China, Russia-Ukraine, France Protests, and More
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk. First, we speak with University of Houston Hobby School of Public Affairs Associate Professor Dr. Chris Bronk about the technology war between the U.S. and China, with the Biden administration attempting to restrict China’s access to semiconductors. Then, we are joined by Rice University Political Science professor Dr. Richard Stoll and Ronan O’Malley, Chief Programs Officer for the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, to discuss recent and current international affairs. Both guests share insight on Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen’s recent trip to China, the latest on Russia-Ukraine amidst the destruction of a bridge linking Crimea to Russia, and Sweden becoming an official member of NATO. Plus, Dr. Stoll and O’Malley share their thoughts on recent world news headlines such as the continuing protests occurring in France, whether the European economy is in trouble, and understanding the Philippines and the new leadership of Ferdinand Marcos Jr.   Guests: Dr. Chris Bronk Associate Professor, Hobby School of Public Affairs, University of Houston Dr. Richard Stoll Albert Thomas Professor of Political Science, Rice University Ronan O’Malley Chief Programs Officer and Director of the Global Affairs & U.S. Foreign Policy Institute, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
“Talk of the Town”: Dealing with Grief, the SAG-AFTRA Strike, Prime Day, and More
Jul 14 2023
“Talk of the Town”: Dealing with Grief, the SAG-AFTRA Strike, Prime Day, and More
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk. It’s time for another “Talk of the Town!” For the full hour, our panel of guests share their perspectives on trending headlines and topics recently covered on Town Square with Ernie Manouse. Today’s panel consists of Second Baptist Church pastor Dr. Ben Young, First Assistant County Attorney for Harris County Jay Aiyer, and The Ensemble Theatre’s Artistic Director Eileen Morris. Our guests share their thoughts on topics including how to deal with grief when losing a loved one, the SAG-AFTRA strike and what effects it will have on the film industry, the uses of ChatGPT, and the excitement around the deals of Amazon Prime Day earlier this week.   Plus, the panel weighs in on recently covered show discussions, including the “American Dream”, the books they’re reading, show’s they’re streaming, and the Emmy nominations.   Guests: Dr. Ben Young Pastor, Second Baptist ChurchAuthor, “Survive the Day: Thriving in the Midst of Life’s Storms” Jay Aiyer First Assistant County Attorney, Harris CountyFormer Co-host, Party Politics Eileen Morris Artistic Director, The Ensemble Theatre Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Summer Travel & Safety: What You Need to Know
Jul 13 2023
Summer Travel & Safety: What You Need to Know
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk. First, we talk with Lieutenant Austin Kirwin of the Galveston Island Beach Patrol about general beach safety, including, how to stay safe in the heat and in the water by knowing how to identify a lifeguard, the flag colors and their meanings, and what to do if you’re caught in a rip current. Then, we are joined by Nathan Diller, USA Today Consumer Travel Reporter, and Kate Johnson, Owner and Advisor of KJ Travel, to discuss advice for summer travel and what you need to know before you book a trip. Diller shares insight on how listeners can avoid scams when booking online, why passport wait times have been so long recently, and tips on how to find deals on cruises. Johnson offers advice on planning trips for long vacations, weekend getaways, and staycations, what to keep in mind when packing for a trip, as well as whether an Airbnb is the right option for your vacation.   Guests: Austin Kirwin Lieutenant, Galveston Island Beach Patrol Nathan Diller Consumer Travel Reporter, USA TODAY Kate Johnson Owner and Advisor, KJ Travel Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps