Best Justin Minor Podcasts (2025)

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Exploring the Wild, Wild West - Hell on the Border 1:11:08

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1d ago1:11:08

1:11:08

In tonight’s show we pick back up on a little “series within a series” I started a couple of years ago entitled “Exploring the Wild, Wild West.” We previously explored Coffeyville and Dodge City, KS as well as the Santa Fe Trail. In tonight’s episode, we’re going to explore one of the very earliest Wild West towns in America…Fort Smith, Arkansas, h…

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#007: Peter Street 48:33

6d ago48:33

48:33

This week, Tom talks to the neurodivergent poet Peter Street, who has lived an utterly remarkable life - from gravedigger in Bolton to war poet in Bosnia to arborist and tree surgeon. This is a serious and humorous chat, exploring camarederie with gravediggers, the environmental crisis and there are several readings from Peter's wonderful poetry co…

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Here’s to you, my gearest friend… 1:11:59

11d ago1:11:59

1:11:59

In tonight’s show, we’re going to talk about long-lived pieces of gear in our kit and the role they can play in the story-arc of our lives. As I prepare to retire a backpack that has accompanied me across tens of thousands of miles or roads, rivers, and wildernesses, it only seems fitting to look back on the adventures it enabled me to take. And as…

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#006: Laura Minor 59:07

13d ago59:07

59:07

This week, Tom speaks to a fellow academic, Dr Laura Minor (Salford), whose roots are in the West Midlands, but who has a lived in the North of England for a good many years now. We talk about Laura's recent book about gender, social class and TV comedy, alongside whether a corner has been turned on shows like Benefits Street, AI, where culture is …

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#005: Rachel Jackson 53:24

21d ago53:24

53:24

This week, Tom speaks to Rachel Jackson, a fabulously distinctive voice in stand-up comedy and screen acting. We speak about Northernness, Scottishness, her unique comedy style, the film she was in with Karen Gillen, horror films and the excellent rave film, BEATS (2019). Rachel candidly addresses her mental health struggles, and was a wonderful gu…

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Watching and Waiting: The Many Comings of Christ 12:19

24d ago12:19

12:19

As Advent begins, this episode reflects on the different 'comings' of Jesus — the Incarnation, his veiled presence in the Eucharist, and the future return in glory — and considers a possible new era of grace before the final judgment. Fr. Waltz urges listeners to stay watchful and prepared through Mass, Confession, Prayer, and Adoration, offering s…

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#004: John Howard 55:11

28d ago55:11

55:11

This week, Tom speaks to John Howard, the great singer-songwriter you probably haven't heard of but will love if you like David Bowie, Elton John, Jobriath, Duncan Browne and Clifford T. Ward. This episode includes discussion ranging over the whole of John's music career, including his landmark albums Kid in a Big World and The Dangerous Hours and …

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Turn the Page… 1:22:24

27d ago1:22:24

1:22:24

Tonight we’re taking a deep dive into the biggest road trip I’ve ever made in my life. It is that time of year again, with Thanksgiving and my birthday upon us, but this year there’s a wild card in the mix…. my commencement and the conferral of my degree in Manchester New Hampshire. We’re going to explore Salem, Boston, Lexington, Concord, Portsmou…

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#003: Justin Lewis 1:04:14

1M ago1:04:14

1:04:14

Hit the North aims to include guests from all over the North, and outside it. Justin Lewis is an authoritative historian of comedy and pop music, and this episode explores his life, and showcases his excellent books, including the new "Into the Groove", a history of 1980s music. Justin's connections to the North are slighter than Matthew's or Ruth'…

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Road Trip Therapy - Calico Rock, AR. 1:09:58

1M ago1:09:58

1:09:58

Welcome Back to Wayward Stories! Who’s in the mood for a little day trip into the soul? Tonight’s show finds us taking a little bit of a philosophical journey into the value of roadtrips as little mini-therapy sessions for the good of the soul. Fear not intrepid wayfarers…we will indeed explore a little day trip to tiny town of Calico Rock here in …

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#002: Ruth-Ann Boyle 58:32

1M ago58:32

58:32

This week's guest is the singer Ruth-Ann Boyle, primarily known for her work with Olive, but who has also recorded with The Durutti Column and Enigma. This enjoyable chat takes in the minutiae of Sunderland life, the tabloid press and how Top of the Pops was better than Never Mind the Buzzcocks. As is necessary, there are some wonderful clips of mu…

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#001: Matthew Kelly 47:32

2M ago47:32

47:32

This week, Tom speaks to the actor and presenter Matthew Kelly about his life and work and Northern England. The discussion takes in a key agitprop production at the Liverpool Everyman, Stars in Their Eyes, Samuel Beckett, Not Going Out and Inside No. 9 among much else! What a delightful first guest for this show, quite frankly. Extracts of these* …

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#000: Introduction 30:30

2M ago30:30

30:30

Tom May introduces the new podcast HIT THE NORTH. Extracts of these* pieces of music are included under fair dealing/fair use for commentary and review and to illustrate guest choices. This podcast is non-commercial. *The JAMs - 'It's Grim Up North', Jake Thackray - 'Old Molly Metcalfe' and Alex Glasgow - 'As Soon As This Pub Closes'.…

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To be a Practicing Catholic is the Fullness of Salvation 11:56

2M ago11:56

11:56

On All Souls Day falling on a Sunday, the homily reflects on funeral readings that offer a confident hope in salvation: "the souls of the just are in the hand of God." It explains that justification comes through Christ's blood—beginning in baptism and fulfilled in the Eucharist—uniting believers to Christ and promising resurrection on the last day…

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Spooky Season 2025 - Arkansas H’aints 1:05:40

2M ago1:05:40

1:05:40

Welcome Back to Wayward Stories! WHAT’S UP WITCHES?!?!? It’s spooky season once again, baby! My favorite time of year! For our 2025 installment, we’re going to take some legend tripping adventures through the Arkansas hills and hollers. From creepy cryptids to inexplicable spooky lights, and from haunted hotels to the last vestiges of hill country …

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Confession vs. Pride: The Pharisee and the Tax Collector 12:38

2M ago12:38

12:38

This episode reflects on the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, showing how religion can be twisted into self-glorification and judgment instead of communion with God and love of others. Fr. Waltz contrasts pride and the 'good person' mindset with the humility of repentance, urging frequent confession and an honest recognition of our co…

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The Son of Man will Return to Earth 10:53

2M ago10:53

10:53

In this episode Fr. Waltz reflects on the Gospel question, "When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?" He ties the parable to persistent prayer, the signs of the second coming, and the modern decline of belief, noting statistics about belief in the real presence of the Eucharist and a widespread falling away from the faith. He calls l…

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Route 66 - Texola to Tucumcari 1:12:49

3M ago1:12:49

1:12:49

Welcome Back to Wayward Stories! This week we are once again going to explore America’s Mother Road, Route 66. This iteration takes us from from Texola to Tucumcari. This little adventure qualifies as Baby Bear’s Birthday Bash - 2025 edition. This stretch of 66 plays host to multiple iconic sites that inspired scenes in the Pixar movies “Cars”, as …

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When Wealth Keeps You From Heaven: The Rich Man and Lazarus 18:13

3M ago18:13

18:13

In this episode Fr. Justin Waltz reflects on the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, showing how wealth can isolate us from God and from compassionate action toward others. He frames the story with global and American income comparisons, warns against the little lies we tell ourselves about possessions, and urges honest soul-searching about sacrif…

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The Wake-Up Call: America’s Spiritual Slumber 20:04

3M ago20:04

20:04

This episode is a spiritual wake-up call using the parable of the dishonest steward to warn against complacency and call listeners to urgent conversion. It contrasts earthly security with eternal consequences, urging zeal, endurance, and practical mercy toward those who suffer. The host shares personal stories, statistics, and historical examples t…

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The Cross: From Torture to Triumph- Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross 13:39

3M ago13:39

13:39

On the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, this episode reflects on how God transformed the cross—an instrument of torture—into the gateway to salvation, hope, and glory. It explains Christ’s self-emptying humility and obedience even to death, showing how God heals sin and addiction when we allow Him to work in us. The message closes with a …

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DREW MAGGI On Getting Called Up To MLB After 13 Years in the Minors 1:22:34

4M ago1:22:34

1:22:34

Drew Maggi shares one of the most inspiring journeys in baseball—a 13-year grind through the minors before finally getting his MLB call-up. In this raw and honest conversation, Drew reflects on his early days at Arizona State, playing alongside his brother, and the ups and downs of life in the minor leagues, including seven-year contracts, offseaso…

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What Love Really Costs-The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time. 15:02

4M ago15:02

15:02

This episode explores Jesus' challenging call to discipleship, explaining that following him means placing relationship with Christ above family, comfort, and self-interest. Through storytelling and personal reflection, the speaker reframes Jesus' demands as an invitation to deeper love and true happiness. Listeners are encouraged to let the gospel…

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JUSTIN STEELE On Overcoming Tommy John, Cubs & Craig Counsell’s Influence 58:21

4M ago58:21

58:21

Cubs starter Justin Steele dives deep into his journey from overlooked prospect to frontline MLB pitcher. He shares stories from his early days in the minors, including Tommy John surgery, battling mental hurdles in Low-A, and the turning point during the COVID shutdown that helped him develop his signature slider. Steele opens up about learning fr…

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Oops All Lefties 47:14

4M ago47:14

47:14

(Cleveland) Guardians of the Future is back once again! Mike Mahoney joins Justin Lada to discuss: Parker Messick's MLB debut John Means' rehab Josh Hartle's promotion Khal Stephen's Guardians org deubt Braylon Doughty's unfortunate injury news Ralphy Velazquez's exploding development If George Valera needs to be called up. Thanks to Mike for joini…

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Majority or Minority? 2,000 Years of Asking Who Will Be Saved 12:14

4M ago12:14

12:14

In this episode we trace two millennia of Christian reflection on a single question: how many will be saved? Walking through Scripture, the early Church, medieval theologians, modern shifts, and private revelations, the talk surveys hopeful and cautionary answers from Augustine to John Paul II and saints like Saint Faustina of the Divine Mercy. The…

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When Faith Sparks Fire: Choosing Christ and Tough Love 19:37

4M ago19:37

19:37

A reflection on the 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time exploring Jeremiah, St. Paul, and Jesus' startling words that bring division rather than easy peace, calling believers to a zealous, courageous love that often requires hard choices. The episode urges both laity and clergy to overcome fear, speak truth with prudence and compassion, and center their l…

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JOEY LUCCHESI On Breaking Into MLB, Pitching Philosophy & Inventing The ‘Churve’ 49:22

4M ago49:22

49:22

Joey Lucchesi joins the show and talks about his path to the big leagues, his time in San Diego, and the lessons he picked up from veterans like Eric Hosmer. From throwing up during early workouts to establishing a consistent routine, Joey opens up about the grind behind making it in MLB. He shares stories about joining new organizations, growing u…

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Unveiling Your Heart: Where Does Your Treasure Lie?-The 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time 14:55

5M ago14:55

14:55

In this insightful episode, we explore the essence of real faith through Jesus' teachings and Paul's writings. The kingdom of heaven awaits, but what do we truly value in our hearts? As we reflect on where our treasures lie, we are challenged to examine the actions that reveal our genuine beliefs. Is our devotion to God as strong as our attachment …

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Route 66 - Tulsa to Texola 1:22:02

5M ago1:22:02

1:22:02

Welcome Back to Wayward Stories! This week we’re going to explore America’s Mother Road, Route 66, from Tulsa to Texola, the little town that sends Oklahoma’s portion of 66 on into Texas. Oklahoma hosts not only its own state museum for 66, but also the National Route 66 museum, as well as numerous Route 66 icons. From ruins to neon and from greasy…

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It's Promotion Time 41:16

5M ago41:16

41:16

Guardians of the Future is back! We're talking about the promotions in the Cleveland Guardians system including Travis Bazzana, Cooper Ingle, Ralphy Velazquez, Rafe Schlesinger and more. The show also dives into the Guardians trading for RHP Khal Stephen at the trade deadline for Shane Bieber. We also recap the 2025 MLB Draft Class by the Cleveland…

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Finding True Purpose: The 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time 13:15

5M ago13:15

13:15

Explore the profound questions surrounding life's fundamental meaning as inspired by this week's readings. Reflect on the teachings of Solomon, Jesus, and Paul, who challenge us to reconsider the focus of our earthly endeavors compared to our eternal purpose. Are we merely chasing worldly pleasures and accolades, or are we investing in heavenly pur…

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Route 66 - Springfield, MO. To Baxter Springs, KS. 59:22

5M ago59:22

59:22

Welcome Back to Wayward Stories! Tonight we explore an often overlooked section of America’s iconic Route 66 - Southeast Kansas. Kansas hosts only 13.2 miles of Route 66, but that 13.2 miles is all original and hosts one of the most widely recognized service stations and characters in all of Route Sixty Six-dom. Listen in tonight to hear all about …

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MATT QUATRARO On Managing The Royals, Terry Francona's Mentorship & Earning Respect in MLB 1:02:53

5M ago1:02:53

1:02:53

Kansas City Royals manager Matt Quatraro sits down to talk about his journey from Cleveland and Tampa coaching roots to leading a massive culture shift in KC following a 106-loss season. He shares lessons learned from working under Terry Francona and Kevin Cash, how Giambi helped him become a better coach, and what it means to create psychological …

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2025-Divine Justice and Mercy: The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah-The 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time 17:36

5M ago17:36

17:36

This week's homily explores the critical themes of divine justice and mercy depicted in the story of Sodom and Gomorrah. By examining both historical and modern perspectives, we delve into the unchanging nature of God’s truth as it pertains to sin, particularly focusing on the sin of sodomy. Despite contemporary culture's shifting views, the script…

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How do we Pray: Active vs Contemplative: Understanding Spiritual Traditions 22:01

5M ago22:01

22:01

In this episode, we delve into the ancient story of Martha and Mary, exploring its significance in the spiritual tradition of the church. This tale symbolizes the dual aspects of spiritual life: the active and the contemplative. The active aspect is about engaging in ministry and contributing to the kingdom through daily activities, whether through…

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Confronting Cultural Chaos with a Deeper Look at the Heart -The 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time 15:36

5M ago15:36

15:36

This episode delves into the timeless wisdom found in religious texts and its profound implication on today's cultural challenges. Despite governmental and societal efforts, the world seems to stray further from the core commandment of loving God and others. This profound discussion contrasts ancient religious teachings with the prevailing ideologi…

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PHIL NEVIN Untold Stories: Tony Gwynn, Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge & Life in MLB 1:09:10

5M ago1:09:10

1:09:10

Former MLB manager and No. 1 overall pick Phil Nevin sits down to reflect on decades of baseball stories, from being mentored by Tony Gwynn to coaching superstars like Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani. Nevin shares what it was like being drafted first overall, working with legends, and adapting to the game as it’s changed through analytics, year-round…

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JASON VARGAS on Kansas City Royals Culture, Golfing with Tiger Woods, & Coaching Today's Youth 42:39

6M ago42:39

42:39

What’s it like to walk into a new clubhouse and see a fog machine, a Segway, and a teammate in a bear suit? For veteran pitcher Jason Vargas, it was his first taste of the wild energy that defined the Kansas City Royals. In this episode, Vargas shares how that group of "dogs" evolved from a fun-loving team to a contender, and the role he played as …

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MIKE NAPOLI Tells Hilarious Untold MLB Stories: Terry Francona, Big Papi & EPIC Casino Wins! 50:03

6M ago50:03

50:03

In this episode, former MLB slugger and World Series champion Mike Napoli shares some of the most unforgettable stories from his career on and off the field. From his roots in South Florida to catching Manny Ramirez bombs in high school, Napoli reflects on the journey that took him through iconic clubhouses and unforgettable teams. He talks about t…

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"The Miracle of Orvieto: The Feast of Corpus Christi" 18:54

6M ago18:54

18:54

This episode delves into the profound miracle of Orvieto that led to the establishment of the Feast of Corpus Christi, celebrating the Body and Blood of Christ. Discover the historical roots of this sacred day, marked by a miraculous event in 1263 when a consecrated host turned to flesh, affirming the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. The e…

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BRENT ROOKER Talks Hitting, Extension with A's & Emotional Goodbye to the Oakland Coliseum 52:03

6M ago52:03

52:03

In this interview, Oakland A’s slugger Brent Rooker opens up about his journey through the highs and lows of professional baseball, from being overlooked to becoming one of the most productive hitters in the league. Rooker discusses the power of social media, the mental toll of not getting consistent opportunities early in his career, and how the A…

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Unraveling the Trinity: Insights from History 8:28

6M ago8:28

8:28

Join us as we delve into the historical debates surrounding the understanding of the Holy Trinity, a central tenet of Christian belief. This episode explores how early church figures grappled with defining the nature of God and Jesus, leading to the pivotal Council of Nicaea, where the Nicene Creed was established. Despite modern-day challenges to …

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JUSTIN UPTON On Playing With Shohei Ohtani, MLB Career & Golfing with Tiger Woods! 1:00:27

7M ago1:00:27

1:00:27

Four-time MLB All-Star Justin Upton joins the show to talk about his rise from top prospect to veteran leader—and everything in between. We talk about hitting a tee shot in front of Tiger Woods, getting dunked on by Zach LaVine, and the journey of his baseball life. Upton gets real about the pressure of being a No. 1 overall pick, debuting in the b…

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JAMESON TAILLON Talks Cubs & Yankees Stories, Surviving Cancer & Mental Toughness 58:52

7M ago58:52

58:52

In this episode, we sit down with Chicago Cubs pitcher Jameson Taillon! Jamo talks about his baseball journey—from being a highly touted first-round pick to battling cancer, undergoing two Tommy John surgeries, and carving out a role in one of the most exciting pitching staffs in the league. Jamo opens up about what it really takes to succeed in to…

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The Divine Transformation: From Humanity to Eternity-The Feast of the Ascension 10:28

7M ago10:28

10:28

This episode explores the profound transformation that occurred when Jesus became human, elevating our personal relationship with God. We delve into the implications of this transformation, celebrating the Feast of the Ascension and anticipating Pentecost as milestones in our spiritual journey. Additionally, the episode draws parallels between the …

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PAT MURPHY Opens Up About ASU Scandal, Coaching The Brewers & Winning MLB Manager of the Year 1:13:57

7M ago1:13:57

1:13:57

Unlock the secrets behind Murf's legendary coaching style in this captivating episode filled with personal anecdotes, professional insights, and unforgettable stories from the world of baseball. From his journey as a bench coach to becoming an MLB Manager of the Year, Murf shares his philosophy on team dynamics, clubhouse chemistry, and connecting …

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The Heartbeat of True Faith-The 6th Sunday of Easter 12:34

7M ago12:34

12:34

John 14:23-24 “Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him. Whoever does not love me does not keep my words”By Fr. Justin Waltz

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HolyFire Daily Homilies & The HolyFire Podcast 1:22

7M ago1:22

1:22

Hello everyone! I’m excited to share some very exciting news with all of our visitors and subscribers to the Fr. Justin Waltz HolyFire platform. Along with our Sunday homilies, we now have a new daily homily series to inspire your faith each day. And that’s not all. We are also introducing the one and only HolyFire HolyFire Daily Homilies Podcastht…

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Towards a Philosophy of Wilderness 50:39

7M ago50:39

50:39

Welcome Back to Wayward Stories! This week we finally find ourself at the oft-mentioned episode “that was coming eventually”. For our 100th episode and belated 4 year anniversary, it seems fitting to look back at how far we’ve come and where we’re heading next! Listen in now to hear all about it! If you’d like to get in touch with me, just shoot an…