A Short Story Podcast Series
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Episodes run 30 seconds to 8 minutes.
Send us your episode ideas, we’ll work the topics into future recordings, and credit you.
Homeschooling parents, teachers, and lifelong learners get priority.
Many episodes include free curriculum materials aligned to global standards.
Legal Disclaimer
All episodes of Interesting Things with JC are provided free of charge for educational purposes under fair use, with the exception of Episode #509. The series, including its associated curriculum and materials, may not be copied, resold, redistributed, or used for commercial purposes without prior written agreement and consent from JimConnors LLC. Unauthorized commercial use, reproduction, or distribution is strictly prohibited. All rights reserved © JimConnors LLC.
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The podcast is currently in common carriage on the Podcast Radio Network.
In London, you can listen to the Podcast Radio Network over the air on DAB+ and access its variety of podcasts and audio content directly through your DAB+ radio.
In the USA, you can listen to Interesting Things with JC on Podcast Radio US in these cities:
Detroit – WCSX 94.7 HD2
Tampa – 1010 WJBR-AM
Charlotte – 94.7 FM and WSOC-HD3
Fort Myers / Naples – 96.5 FM, 101.5 FM, 105.1 FM, and WXKB-HD2
You can also stream it nationwide at PodcastRadioUS.com
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Kick off class with a quick boost. Play an episode of Interesting Things with JC to get your students interested right off the bat. The short stories are easy to follow, and the free curriculum gives you everything you need to turn that spark into a full lesson with questions, activities, and real learning.
Each episode includes a modular micro-lesson designed to support a 30 to 45 minute class. Curriculum content appears at the bottom of the episode page in easy-to-use expandable sections.
Each lesson includes:
Lesson overview (title, grade level, subject area, learning objectives)
Key vocabulary with phonetic spelling and plain-language definitions
Core story content based on the Precise Storytelling Framework
Full podcast transcript
Student worksheet with comprehension and writing prompts
Teacher guide with pacing, strategies, and discussion tools
Quiz and assessment rubric
Standards alignment across multiple global frameworks
We are currently piloting lesson alignment to:
Approved Standards – High-Level ListNGSS – Next Generation Science Standards
CCSS – Common Core State Standards (ELA and Math)
C3 Framework – College, Career & Civic Life (Social Studies)
ISTE Standards – Technology and Digital Literacy
NCAS – National Core Arts Standards
CTE Career Clusters – U.S. Career & Technical Education
ACRL Framework – Higher Ed Information Literacy
Bloom’s Taxonomy – Cognitive Learning Objectives
UDL – Universal Design for Learning (Accessibility Support)
International Academic Equivalents (Content-Only)
UK National Curriculum – Key Stages 3–5 (England)
AQA / OCR / Edexcel – UK Exam Board Specifications
IB (International Baccalaureate) – PYP, MYP, DP (academic subjects only)
Cambridge International – IGCSE, AS/A-Level (non-political content areas)
All lessons are open educational resources (OER) and designed with homeschool flexibility in mind.
Disclaimer:Interesting Things with JC and its companion curriculum are provided for educational purposes under fair use. They are free to access and share for teaching and learning, but not for resale or commercial distribution.
Examples: Browse any episode from #1235 to the present.
Format Update: Starting with Episode #1307, each MP3 page in the RSS includes open text at the bottom for easier access.
Feedback: Curriculum users, your input helps improve layout and usability. Your feedback is welcomed.
Older Episodes: If you find one without curriculum, drop me a line. I’ll prioritize building it out. The goal is for every episode to have full resources.
1000: "Happiness"
In "Happiness," we discuss how daily practices like friendships, self-care, and journaling lead to personal fulfillment and align with core values for increased satisfaction and resilience.
999: "9 Fruits of the Spirit"
Interesting Things with JC #999: "9 Fruits of the Spirit" - Discover how embodying the nine virtues—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—can lead to a more fulfilled and spiritually aligned life. These virtues, rooted in biblical teachings, serve as a guide to personal growth and moral integrity. Tune in to explore how each can dramatically influence one's life in positive ways.
998: “Beware of Destiny Swappers”
Interesting Things with JC #998: "Beware of Destiny Swappers" - This episode dives into the manipulative tactics of destiny swappers who strive to steal others' successful paths through deceit and manipulation. It discusses the psychological traits that enable such behaviors and offers strategies to protect oneself from these toxic dynamics. Tune in to learn how to maintain your autonomy and safeguard your personal and professional life from those who might undermine it.
997: "Pigs can't look at the Sky"
Interesting Things with JC #997: "Pigs can't look at the Sky" - This episode dives into why pigs are physically unable to look straight up due to their anatomical structure. It explores how pigs perceive the world differently and utilize reflections to view the sky. The discussion also touches on the broader implications of these adaptations in animal behavior and evolution.
996: "A Desire to Run Away"
Interesting Things with JC #996: "A Desire to Run Away" - In this episode, we delve into the reasons behind our instinct to escape when faced with overwhelming situations, exploring both the psychological underpinnings and the societal pressures that amplify this feeling. We discuss the link between mental health issues like anxiety and depression and the desire to flee, and provide strategies for managing these impulses. Tune in to learn how understanding and addressing these emotions can lead to more effective coping and a more stable life.
995: "Loneliness"
Interesting Things with JC #995: "Loneliness" - This episode delves into the complexities of loneliness, a state that can lead to both severe health challenges and profound personal growth. It discusses the biological and psychological impacts of feeling isolated and how, paradoxically, such a state can also encourage self-discovery and resilience. Tune in to uncover the dual nature of loneliness and how it shapes human experience.
988: "Dragon Point"
Interesting Things with JC #988: "Dragon Point" - Explore the captivating history of Dragon Point, a cherished site on Merritt Island known for its iconic dragon sculptures, Annie and Rojak. This locale symbolizes the creativity and communal bonds of the area, inspiring tales and artistic expressions. Discover how Dragon Point continues to evolve, representing the resilience and renewal of community spirit.
987: "Astronaut Beach House"
Interesting Things with JC #987: "Astronaut Beach House" - Delve into the quiet story of the Astronaut Beach House, a place where astronauts find solace before their space journeys. Located at the Kennedy Space Center, this house serves as a personal and historic retreat. It symbolizes the human aspect of space exploration, hosting pre-launch gatherings and private reflections.
986: "The Moqui Marbles"
Interesting Things with JC #986: "The Moqui Marbles" - Journey into the captivating realm of Moqui Marbles, peculiar geological formations found in the American Southwest. Explore their origins, cultural significance, and ongoing scientific research, unveiling the mysteries of these interesting spheres.
985: "The Marfa Lights"
Interesting Things with JC #985: "The Marfa Lights" - The Marfa Lights are an enduring mystery of dancing lights observed near Marfa, Texas, sparking curiosity and scientific investigation. Theories range from car headlights to geological electricity, but no explanation has fully solved their mystique. This phenomenon draws tourists and researchers alike, intrigued by the spectral display.
981: "9 April 1940 - Denmark's Dawn of Defiance and the German Blitzkrieg"
Interesting Things with JC #981: "April 9, 1940 - Denmark's Dawn of Defiance and the German Blitzkrieg" - This episode delves into the dramatic events of April 9, 1940, when Denmark faced the overwhelming might of the German blitzkrieg. It highlights Denmark's quick but strategic surrender to preserve its sovereignty, showcasing a lesser-known yet significant episode of WWII. The narrative brings to light Denmark's brief defiance and the complexities of wartime decisions.
980: "360 Sunrise/Sunset of a Solar Eclipse"
Interesting Things with JC #980: "360 Sunrise/Sunset of a Solar Eclipse" - Explore the breathtaking 360-degree sunrise/sunset phenomenon during a total solar eclipse. This episode dives into the celestial mechanics behind it and its significance for both science and viewers, highlighting the awe-inspiring beauty of our universe.
979: "Jamais Vu"
Interesting Things with JC #979: "Jamais Vu" - Embark on a journey into the mysterious world of jamais vu, where the familiar becomes unfamiliar, unraveling the complexities of memory, perception, and cognition.
978: "Tartan Day"
Interesting Things with JC #978: "Tartan Day" - Explore the historical significance and vibrant celebrations of Tartan Day, commemorating the Declaration of Arbroath and honoring Scottish culture and heritage worldwide.
977: "THE Kyle Smith?"
Interesting Things with JC #977: "THE Kyle Smith?" Delve into the intriguing mystery surrounding a renowned educator's identity as he navigates the world of academia at UHI Perth, leaving a lasting impact on his students and colleagues.
976: "Life is a Journey, Not a Destination"
Interesting Things with JC #976: "Life is a Journey, Not a Destination" - This story emphasizes the importance of embracing life as an ongoing journey rather than focusing solely on reaching predetermined destinations. It encourages individuals to appreciate each moment, learn from experiences, and find meaning in the process of living.
975: "April 4th, 2024"
Interesting Things with JC #975: "April 4th, 2024" - This story delves into the profound transformative energies of the day, highlighting its significance in terms of stability, protection, and spiritual growth. As individuals harness the cosmic resonance, they're invited to embark on a journey of personal evolution and manifestation.
974: "Trojan Horse Deception"
Interesting Things with JC #974: "Trojan Horse Deception" - Uncover the legendary stratagem of the Trojan Horse and its pivotal role in ancient warfare, revealing insights into cunning deception and strategic ingenuity that changed history forever.
973: "The London Hammer"
Interesting Things with JC #973: "The London Hammer" - Unveiled by Max and Emma Hahn in Texas, this artifact's discovery raises questions about its 400-million-year-old origins. Is it proof of ancient civilizations or a geological anomaly? Tune in to uncover the mystery!