The Gist - Ken Follett’s Case for Long Novels

Today on The Gist, Riveted author Jim Davies explains the cognitive science behind what we find compelling. Plus, author Ken Follett explains his methods for holding interest through thousand-plus-page novels. His latest is Edge of Eternity. In both of our interviews today, Mike asks a question inspired by Alex Blumberg’s new podcast StartUp. For the Spiel, Mike explores the history of the culture wars in America. Get The Gist by email as soon as it’s available: slate.com/GistEmail Subscribe to the podcast in iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/slate…id873667927?mt=2

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The Gist - Chanteuse Storm Large Subtly Accuses Miley Cyrus of Mass Murder

Today on The Gist, we call up Scottish schoolteacher and blogger Craig McAllister to discuss the big choice facing Scotland this week. Since we spoke with him on an earlier episode, he’s now a decided “yes” vote. Then, Storm Large from Pink Martini joins us to discuss her career and identity as a female performer. Her new album is Le Bonheur. For the Spiel, Mike’s riff on President Obama’s ability to place himself in the position of his enemies. Get The Gist by email as soon as it’s available: slate.com/GistEmail Subscribe to the podcast in iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/slate…id873667927?mt=2

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The Goods from the Woods - Episode #47 – “Cartoons” with Ed Greer & Klee Wiggins

In this episode, the Goods from the Woods Boys and their special guests, comedian Klee Wiggins and Ed Greer, plop themselves down in front of the TV for some Saturday morning cartoons. From the homoeroticism of He-Man to the racial politics of Bionic Six, cartoons are a favorite subject for everyone! Follow Ed on Twitter @EdGreerDestroys. Follow Klee @KleeThePimp. Song of the week is "Fiery Angel" by Rayvon Pettis.  Follow the show @TheGoodsPod  Rivers is @RiversLangley  Dr. Pat is @PM_Reilly  Mr. Goodnight is @SepulvedaCowboy  Pick up a Goods from the Woods t-shirt at: http://prowrestlingtees.com/TheGoodsPod

More or Less: Behind the Stats - Shakespeare vs Rappers

It's a 'fact' beloved of English teachers around the world: that Shakespeare, the greatest playwright in English, also had the greatest vocabulary. But research published earlier this year suggests English teachers might have to look elsewhere to establish the superiority of the Bard - apparently his vocabulary lags behind the best and most famous rappers of the last decades. Is this comparison fair, and if so, does it diminish the Bard's lustre? This programme was first broadcast on the BBC World Service.

Serious Inquiries Only - AS67: Cognitive Dissonance on Atheist Celebrities, Part 1

Tom and Cecil are back! Talking with these guys is the absolute most fun. They are such a great blend of humor and insight! This time we’re discussing the phenomenon of atheist celebrities. We rehash a bit of the Dawkins Twitter stuff simply because it’s germane to the discussion, but we also go on to … Continue reading AS67: Cognitive Dissonance on Atheist Celebrities, Part 1 →

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The Gist - Why Do I Keep Accidentally Dating Swingers?

Today on The Gist, Adam Davidson from Planet Money explains why dollar stores are way less evil than Wal-Mart. Plus, Slate’s Emily Yoffe joins us for a Post-Prudence Impact Statement with past letter writer Swinger Ex-Boyfriend. And in the Spiel, Ira Glass dances his way into our hearts. Get The Gist by email as soon as it’s available: slate.com/GistEmail Subscribe to the podcast in iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/slate…id873667927?mt=2

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Motley Fool Money - Motley Fool Money: 09.12.2014

Apple introduces a smartwatch.  Lululemon reports fashionable earnings.  And Activision Blizzard meets its Destiny.   Our analyst discuss those stories and share some stocks on their radar.  Plus, we talk with Adam Tanner, author of What Stays in Vegas:  The World of Personal Data  - Lifeblood of Big Business - and the End of Privacy as We Know It.

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