Best The Pod at the End of the Universe Podcasts (2025)

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Teach Passing Better, Making Cuts, and Tom Black's new Substack 33:13

Play Pause

5h ago33:13

33:13

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod discuss effective coaching strategies for teaching volleyball, particularly focusing on passing techniques and player development. They emphasize the importance of movement patterns, platform awareness, and the need for flexibility in training. The conversation also covers the sensitive topic o…

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Space Colonization with Grace Johnson 1:05:15

3d ago1:05:15

1:05:15

This week, Moiya welcomes Grace, who has lots of thoughts on Star Trek and colonization. They discuss the dangers of long-term space travel, Fermi's paradox, the overview effect, and what it means to be human. Guest Star: Grace Johnson is a comedian based in NYC. Follow her on IG @criticalgracetheory Messages Become a star and join the patreon at p…

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Tryout Intangibles List, How To Be an Awesome Court Coach at Tryouts, and VolleyballToolbox.net 25:16

6d ago25:16

25:16

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod discuss various aspects of coaching tryouts. They share tips for evaluating players, the importance of communication, and strategies for effective court coaching. The conversation also highlights resources available for coaches to enhance their skills and knowledge in the sport. Evaluating how …

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Firefly Review with Corey Rindler 1:01:47

10d ago1:01:47

1:01:47

Saddle up your spaceships! Moiya and Corey are riding in to rate and review the cult classic show Firefly. Will they decide it was worth a second season? Guest Star: Corey Rindler is a comedian and co-host of Bathtub Season. Follow him on IG @thefinalcorey Messages Become a star and join the patreon at patreon.com/palebluepod! Go supernova and supp…

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Dan Meske on Running the Offense and Switching To His New Role As Head Coach at Louisville University 47:58

13d ago47:58

47:58

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod and guest Dan Meske discuss the transition to head coach, the importance of setter training, and the dynamics of coaching staff. Coach Meske shares insights on effective feedback for setters, the significance of tempo and location in setting, and the role of technology in training. They also ex…

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Space News with Amanda McLoughlin 50:13

17d ago50:13

50:13

Moiya tells Amanda about some recent astronomy stories, from showboating comets to the future of rocket launches, it's all in honor of the people's princess, Moo Deng. Guest Star: Amanda McLoughlin is the CEO of Multitude Productions, where she cohosts several podcasts and proves that media companies don't have to suck. Her IG is @shessomickey Mess…

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National Championship Journey, Ten Camp Drill Formats, and SkillShark 36:53

20d ago36:53

36:53

In this episode of The Volley Pod, Tod and Davis discuss their recent success at USAV Nationals, sharing insights on coaching strategies, skill development, and team culture. They explore effective drills, game strategies, and the importance of building a supportive team environment. The conversation also highlights lessons learned from the champio…

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Painting the Cosmos with Dr. Nia Imara 40:01

24d ago40:01

40:01

Moiya asks Nia about her new book exploring the intersection of art and science. They talk about artistic inspiration, shifting perspectives, Black culture, and so much more. Guest Star: Dr. Nia Imara is a painter, astronomer, and author of Painting the Cosmos. Follow Nia on IG @drniaimara Messages Become a star and join the patreon at patreon.com/…

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Mastering Mental Performance in Volleyball with Amanda Jones 39:23

27d ago39:23

39:23

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod are joined by Amanda Jones to discuss Mastering Mental Performance. Join us on The Volley Pod as we dive into the world of mental sports performance with Amanda Jones, a certified mental performance consultant. Discover the tools and techniques that can help athletes and coaches enhance their m…

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Cosmic Microwave Background with Ann Bartow 1:02:01

1M ago1:02:01

1:02:01

Moiya tells Ann about the oldest light in the universe and how it's used to study the Big Bang. Ann tells Moiya about the value of scientific exploration. From pigeon poop to post-it notes, the CMB shines above us all. Guest Star: Ann Bartow is a comedian, formerly a lawyer. Find her on Bluesky at annbartow.bsky.social Messages Become a star and jo…

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Update Your Coaching Glossary with These Key Words, Talented Players is a Culture Cancer, and 26:24

1M ago26:24

26:24

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod discuss the conclusion of the club volleyball season and the transition into high school volleyball. They delve into the importance of language in coaching, presenting a glossary of terms that can enhance player learning and team dynamics. The conversation shifts to the challenges of managing t…

1
Space Law with AJ Link 49:03

1M ago49:03

49:03

Moiya asks AJ to explain how law works in space. Like, who owns it? Who can send things there? Can you get away with draining your wife's bank account if you're above the atmosphere? Listen here for hot tips to plan your next space heist! Guest Star: AJ Link is a space lawyer and professor of space law at Howard University. He says to google him ha…

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The Volleyball Journey: A Handy Guidebook for Players and Parents by The Volley Pod's Tod Mattox 30:05

1M ago30:05

30:05

This conversation explores various aspects of volleyball coaching, focusing on mental performance strategies, parental guidance, effective communication between players and coaches, and the importance of reading the game. The discussion also highlights creative ways to engage young players, the benefits of beach volleyball, and the significance of …

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Weird Universe with Dr. Erika Hamden 51:42

2M ago51:42

51:42

Moiya and Erika talk about the weirdest things in the universe and what it's like to explain them in a book. They cover secret book deals, pasta inside stars, and Erika's hopes for the future of humanity. Guest Star: Dr. Erika Hamden is an astrophysicist and author of Weird Universe. Follow her and watch her science videos at erika.hamden Messages …

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Improve Your Private Lesson Coaching, Framing Your End of Season Tournament, and Good, Bad, I'm the Guy with the Blog 23:49

2M ago23:49

23:49

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod discuss various aspects of volleyball coaching, focusing on enhancing private lessons, effective techniques, and strategies for player improvement. They emphasize the importance of adapting lessons to be more game-like, the value of group lessons, and the significance of setting clear goals for…

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Moonraker Review with Dr. Claire Aubin 1:06:52

2M ago1:06:52

1:06:52

Moiya and Claire watched the old bond film Moonraker and now they need to rate it. Tune in to hear their thoughts on villain character arcs, space laser fights, and runaway funiculars. Guest Star: Dr. Claire Aubin is a historian and host of This Guy Sucked. Follow her online at ceaubin Messages Become a star and join the patreon at patreon.com/pale…

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Lessons from Club Nationals, Avoiding Coach Burnout, and Mark Lebedew is At Home On The Court 30:21

2M ago30:21

30:21

In this episode of The Volley Pod we get our first look at some content from Tod's upcoming book and cover lessons that coach Mark Massey observed during his time at Club Nationals. Then we cover important lessons from experience about how to avoid coach burnout, which is rampant at this time of the season. Finally, we share a cool coaching resourc…

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Tiny Space Matters with Dr. Sam Jones 55:20

2M ago55:20

55:20

Moiya and Sam talk about the smallest things in space, from the littlest planet to wee comet pieces to the tiny atoms that make up the whole universe. Guest Star: Dr. Sam Jones, biomedical scientist, is a writer, producer, and cohost of Tiny Matters, a general science podcast from the American Chemical Society Messages Become a star and join the pa…

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Undersized Hitters Tips with 18 Open Finalist Juliette D'Eliseo, The Big Game, and Four Athletes4 38:38

2M ago38:38

38:38

In this conversation, we explore the dynamics of being an undersized outside hitter in volleyball. Juliette D'Eliseo, 2025 18 Open National Finalist, shares her experiences and insights on how to effectively utilize the block, the importance of smart hitting strategies, and the transition from being a libero to an outside hitter. The discussion als…

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Space x Visual Art with J Wright 1:03:19

2M ago1:03:19

1:03:19

Moiya and J talk about art pieces inspired by space and the methods astronomers use to turn their data into stunning visualizations. Guest Star: J Wright is an artist. Follow them on bluesky @JWX Messages Become a star and join the patreon at patreon.com/palebluepod! Go supernova and support Pale Blue Pod on PayPal Get your Pale Blue Pod Merch List…

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Using Stats with Juniors, Mid-Season Leadership Tune-up, and VolleyKnowledge 35:58

2M ago35:58

35:58

In this episode of The Volley Pod presented by The Art of Coaching Volleyball, hosts Davis and Tod discuss various aspects of volleyball coaching, focusing on the importance of statistics in junior volleyball, effective leadership for team captains, and the nuances of player development. They explore which statistics are most relevant for assessing…

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April Fools Papers with Wow If True 59:57

2M ago59:57

59:57

Moiya tells fellow internet experts Amanda and Isabel about a nerdy corner of the web they've never seen before: prank astronomy papers! They do an elimination bracket to determine the best paper, and learn some fundamental truths about humor on the way. Guest Stars: Isabel J. Kim is a fiction writer, podcaster and real life attorney! Find her work…

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The Leadership Episode Part 2 27:00

3M ago27:00

27:00

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod engage with Ken Murczek, head coach at Emporia State University, in a deep discussion about leadership in sports. They explore the dynamics of team captains, the importance of communication over accountability, and the role of leadership configurations in fostering a positive team environment. …

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A Day at NASA Goddard 1:02:44

3M ago1:02:44

1:02:44

Moiya reminisces about a tour at NASA to see how they clean and test telescopes, where she got to sit down with a scientist who works behind the scenes on NASA missions. Guest Star: Eric Silver is a writer, podcaster, and renowned game master. Follow him online @el_silvero and see his work at ericsilver.work Dr. Knicole Colón is an Operations Proje…

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The Leadership Episode Part 1 22:09

3M ago22:09

22:09

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Head Coach of Emporia State University Ken Murczek about leadership in coaching. They explore various aspects of leadership, including whether leaders are born or made, the importance of allowing leadership to evolve naturally within teams, and the …

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Rerun: Carl Sagan in a Barn 54:34

3M ago54:34

54:34

Moiya and Corinne honor the man who inspired the podcast's name: Carl Sagan! Corinne explains how Sagan spilled government secrets to get a job and Moiya reveals the mixed reactions to his science communication work. Messages Become a star and join the patreon at patreon.com/palebluepod! Go supernova and support Pale Blue Pod on PayPal Get your Pal…

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Mastering the Defensive Toolbox, Navigating Injuries at Major Tournaments, and High IQ Plays 30:43

3M ago30:43

30:43

In this episode of The Volley Pod, the hosts discuss the importance of defensive skills in volleyball, the challenges of managing injuries during tournaments, and strategies for effective communication and player replacement. They emphasize the need for coaches to prepare their teams for unexpected challenges and to recognize the value of every pla…

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Mesoamerican Astronomy with Keenan Steiner 1:09:27

3M ago1:09:27

1:09:27

Moiya and Keenan discuss what Mesoamerican cultures like the Aztecs and Maya knew about astronomy, from creation myths to complex calendars. They also talk about the state of astronomy research in Central America today. Guest Star: Keenan Steiner is a standup comedian and host of Comedian Behavioral Therapy. Follow him online @keenanstandup or and …

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3 Good Drills, Late Season Practice Plan, and Soul Performance Academy 35:36

3M ago35:36

35:36

In this episode of The Volley Pod, the hosts discuss recent tournament performances, emphasizing the importance of consistency and skill development. They explore various drills and game strategies that can enhance team performance, particularly focusing on innovative drills like '21 Savage' and 'Shakespeare Serving'. The conversation also covers l…

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Rerun: Kepler on Swan Lake 51:06

3M ago51:06

51:06

Moiya gushes to Corinne about her favorite space mission: Kepler! Corinne has great budget instincts and brilliant ideas for exoplanetary presidential candidates. Messages Become a star and join the patreon at patreon.com/palebluepod! Go supernova and support Pale Blue Pod on PayPal Get your Pale Blue Pod Merch Listen to Join the Party every Tuesda…

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Strategies for Earning Playing Time, Dealing with Trash Talk, and The Volleyball Coaching Bible 22:31

4M ago22:31

22:31

In this episode, the hosts discuss various aspects of youth volleyball coaching, including team performance, strategies for players to earn more playing time, and how to handle trash talk during games. They emphasize the importance of communication, skill development, and maintaining a positive mindset in competitive environments. Additionally, the…

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The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy with Christina Kann 1:09:18

4M ago1:09:18

1:09:18

Moiya and Christina review the star-studded movie adapted from Douglas Adams' hit novel. Come for Moiya's thoughts on the infinite improbability drive, stay for Christina's fun facts about the worst poetry in the universe. Guest Star: Christina Kann is a writer and podcaster. Listen to Burn Before Reading and read Indie Book Publishing From Start t…

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Perform Your Best At Three Day Qualifiers, What I Can Take Into Practice After Visiting Two College Programs,and Glue Guys 36:51

4M ago36:51

36:51

In this episode of The Volley Pod, coaches Davis and Tod discuss their recent tournament experiences, emphasizing the importance of team management, preparation, and mindset. They share insights on how to handle expectations, performance, and end-game strategies, while also exploring innovative coaching practices from college programs. The conversa…

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Data Science with Dr. Andrea Jones-Rooy 1:08:59

4M ago1:08:59

1:08:59

What do space and politics have in common? Big data! Moiya asks Andrea how data science works and she answers with bittersweet examples of how America is less politically polarized than we think. Guest Star: Dr. Andrea Jones-Rooy is a professor of political science and data science, a comedian, and a circus performer. Check out her website jonesroo…

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A Volleyball Rotations Primer, Big Fish Small Pond Syndrome, and the Newest Concussion Information 38:16

4M ago38:16

38:16

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod discuss the intricacies of volleyball coaching, focusing on the importance of understanding rotations and the dynamics of player roles. They emphasize the need for coaches to adapt their strategies based on the players' skill levels and the significance of fostering a supportive community among…

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Newton's Laws with Bijou Kabeya 59:53

4M ago59:53

59:53

Moiya and Bijou cover the highs and lows of Sir Isaac Newton's career from his work on calculus to his descriptions of gravity and other forces, but the question remains: was he lonely? Guest Star: Bijou Kabeya is a New York-based comedian. Follow her on IG @bijoukabeya Messages Become a star and join the patreon at patreon.com/palebluepod! Go supe…

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The Actual Hard Parts of Coaching, Middle of the Season Culture Tune-up Using Quotations, and The Why Is Everything 30:23

4M ago30:23

30:23

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Coach Davis and Coach Tod discuss the often overlooked challenges of coaching volleyball. They delve into the emotional and psychological aspects of coaching, including the difficulties of giving constructive criticism, maintaining energy and positivity, and managing team dynamics. The conversation emphasize…

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Birthcharts with Charmeé Taylor 54:28

4M ago54:28

54:28

Charmeé breaks down some astrology concepts and walks us through Moiya's birthchart. It turns out Moiya's even more of a capricorn than she thought. Guest Star: Charmeé Taylor is an astrology enthusiast, writer, and podcaster. Her book is Confessions of a Bisexual. Follow her on IG @bi_astrology and on Tiktok @charmeeifyoudare. Messages Become a st…

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B.E.T On It: A Psychological Approach To Coaching Gen-Z and Beyond with David Durand 37:10

4M ago37:10

37:10

In this episode of The Volley Pod, Coach Davis and Coach Tod welcome David Durand, a sports performance and psychology leader, to discuss his book 'Bet on It: A Psychological Approach to Coaching Gen Z and Beyond' The conversation explores the importance of mental performance, nervous system regulation, and the impact of social stress on adolescent…

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Audience Q&A with Mayanna Berrin 1:27:50

5M ago1:27:50

1:27:50

Moiya and Mayanna go through some questions from listeners and cover everything from earth's rotation to the loneliest galaxy in the universe. Guest Star: Mayanna Berrin is a writer, voice actor, and comedian based in LA. Follow her on IG @mayannaberrin. Hear her on StoryQuest and Tales Unrolled. And check out Dispatch, the video game Mayanna worke…

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The 'Libero Manifesto', Timeout Ideas, and Fit for Thoughts Foundation 30:53

5M ago30:53

30:53

In this episode of The Volley Pod, Coach Davis and Coach Tod discuss the essential qualities and skills needed for liberos in volleyball, emphasizing the importance of bravery, communication, and mental toughness. They explore the 'Libero Manifesto' which outlines ten steps to becoming a superhero libero, including being aggressive in serve receive…

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Dark Energy with Chris Alan 1:06:19

5M ago1:06:19

1:06:19

Moiya and Chris talk about dark energy, the universe's biggest and fastest mystery. Chris asks great questions and reminds Moiya that she's spent too much time in the ivory tower. Guest Star: Chris Alan is a comedian in Charlottesville, VA. Follow him on IG @chrisalancomedy Messages Join the patreon at patreon.com/palebluepod! Get your Pale Blue Po…

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Passing an Actual Floater, 10 Ways To Improve Our Practices, and The Tough Stuff: 7 Hard Truths About Being a Head Coach 28:34

5M ago28:34

28:34

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod discuss the intricacies of passing float serves, emphasizing the importance of mastering this skill for volleyball success. They explore various techniques, emergency moves, and practice strategies to enhance team performance. The conversation also touches on the emotional challenges of coachin…

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TRAPPIST-1 Planets with Chris Cook 56:52

5M ago56:52

56:52

Moiya, Chris, and Buzz Lightyear get together to talk about TRAPPIST-1, a nearby system of 7 exoplanets. Then they tag each planet as one of the 7 dwarves. FYI, this episode was recorded last year. Moiya is true, not new, to the game of hating Elon Musk. Guest Star: Chris Cook is a Chicago-based comedian. Find his work in his website christopherpau…

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The Power of Context in Player Development with Loren Anderson 39:16

5M ago39:16

39:16

In this episode, Davis and Tod engage with Loren Anderson, a volleyball coach and expert in ecological dynamics. They discuss the principles of ecological dynamics in coaching, emphasizing the importance of creating game-like environments for player development. The conversation covers the coupling of perception and action, the differences between …

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Astronomy Acronyms with Alana Goldstein 50:58

5M ago50:58

50:58

Moiya tells Alana about something that has bothered her for years: the way astronomers make acronyms! Get ready for poetic monsters, ancient weaponry, and magic spells... or the scientific projects named after them. Guest Star: Alana Goldstein is a New York-based comedian. Follow her on instagram at @goldiecomedy Messages Join the patreon at patreo…

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Dominate the End Line: Serving for Success, My Team Misses Too Many Serves, and How To Change 37:39

5M ago37:39

37:39

In this episode, the hosts discuss the intricacies of volleyball coaching, focusing on serving techniques and strategies. They emphasize the importance of float serves, the need for players to track their serving stats, and the mental and physical preparation required for effective serving. The conversation also touches on the social-emotional aspe…

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Astronomy Conference with Constance Gibbs 1:12:25

6M ago1:12:25

1:12:25

Moiya tells her bestie Connie about the big astronomy meeting she attended last month. They talk blue lurkers, astrobeats, additions to their vocabulary, and conference drama! Guest Star: Constance Gibbs is a writer and social media consultant. Follow her online at @constar24 and check out her website constar.media Messages Join the patreon at patr…

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Where Do I Hit It Coach? An Attacking Choices Paradigm, My Team Is Unfocused and Does Not Play Hard, and the 900 Square Feet Newletter 34:30

6M ago34:30

34:30

In this episode of The Volley Pod, hosts Davis and Tod discuss the Triple Crown tournament, emphasizing the emotional investment coaches have in their teams. They delve into skill development, focusing on attacking choices, shot access, and situational awareness. The conversation also addresses team culture issues, offering actionable strategies fo…

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Voyager Mission with Alen Kolenovic 1:01:50

6M ago1:01:50

1:01:50

Moiya and Alen travel back in time to discuss the spacecraft that have traveled farthest in space. Voyagers 1 and 2 are still zooming through space beyond our solar system, and Moiya wants to tell you what they've learned. Guest Star: Alen Kolenovic is an actor and writer. Follow Alen at @alen_kolenovic. Messages Join the patreon at patreon.com/pal…

The Pod At The End Of The Universe Podcasts