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.
1354: "John Michael 'Ozzy' Osbourne"
Interesting Things with JC #1354: "John Michael 'Ozzy' Osbourne" – He didn’t invent heavy metal, but he gave it a soul. From a Birmingham slum to global icon, Ozzy's voice was pain, prayer, and power.
1170: "Blood Minerals - The Hidden Cost of Progress"
Interesting Things with JC #1170: "Blood Minerals - The Hidden Cost of Progress" - Every smartphone and laptop connects to more than the internet—it connects to a hidden cost. Explore how essential minerals power technology but fuel conflict and exploitation.
1023: "Dashe Cellars"
Interesting Things with JC #1023: "Dashe Cellars" - Explore how Michael and Anne Dashe’s passion for winemaking led to the creation of Dashe Cellars, a pioneering urban winery in Alameda, CA, known for its exceptional, sustainable wines.
097: "Sharks Are Older Than Trees"
Interesting Things with JC #097: "Sharks Are Older Than Trees" - Explore the fascinating fact that sharks have existed longer than trees. Tune in for more!
005: "The Lost Village of Tyneham"
Interesting Things with JC #005: "The Lost Village of Tyneham" - Explore the story of Tyneham, a Dorset village evacuated in 1943 during WWII, promising its residents a return that never came. Today, it stands preserved, a poignant reminder of the past, open to the public to witness history frozen in time.
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.
970: "Shroud of Turin"
Interesting Things with JC #970: "Shroud of Turin" - Explore the history and scientific investigations surrounding the Shroud of Turin, believed by millions to be the burial cloth of Jesus.
941: "Lascaux Cave Paintings"
Interesting Things with JC #941: "Lascaux Cave Paintings" - Unearth the captivating world of prehistoric art found in the heart of France's Dordogne region. Explore the intricate details and symbolic meanings behind these ancient depictions of animals and human figures, shedding light on our ancestors' creativity and spirituality.
921: "Fort Smallwood Park"
Interesting Things with JC #921: "Fort Smallwood Park" - Dive into the intriguing story behind Fort Smallwood Park, from its origins as a defensive structure in the Spanish-American War to its transformation into a serene public space today. Explore remnants of history and enjoy recreational activities along the picturesque Chesapeake Bay.
913: "Chronicle of Georgia"
Interesting Things with JC #913: "Chronicle of Georgia" - Delve into the rich history of Georgia at the monumental Chronicle of Georgia, crafted by Zurab Tserteli in 1985. Open 24/7 and free to visit, this landmark embodies Georgia's cultural heritage amidst its architectural magnificence.
852: "Phi Beta Kappa"
Interesting Things with JC #852: "Phi Beta Kappa" - Delve into the captivating history of the first academic honor society, established December 5th, 1776.
841: "Dallas - 24 November 1963"
Interesting Things with JC #841: "Dallas - 24 November 1963" delves into the shocking events as nightclub owner Jack Ruby shoots Lee Harvey Oswald live on TV, adding layers of mystery to JFK's assassination. The legal saga, Ruby's declining mental state revealed in a cryptic note, and the unresolved questions create a gripping narrative.
840: "Thanksgiving 1621"
Interesting Things with JC #840: "Thanksgiving 1621" - Explore the untold harmony between Pilgrims and Wampanoag during a feast uniting 90 Wampanoag and 53 Pilgrim survivors. The story unveils resilience, cooperation, and the impact of cultural exchange.
833: "Izmir, Turkey"
Interesting Things with JC #833: "Izmir, Turkey" - Dive into the vibrant city of Izmir, Turkey, where ancient history meets a bustling present. Explore the iconic Clock Tower, savor the gastronomic delights of Kumru, and witness the panoramic views from Kadifekale fortress.
832: "Hamburg, Germany"
Interesting Things with JC #832: "Hamburg, Germany" unfolds a rich narrative of maritime grandeur, from the bustling port to the UNESCO Speicherstadt. Discover the city's literary ties, architectural marvels, and a commitment to sustainability, inviting exploration beyond its canals.
813: "Friday"
Interesting Things with JC #813: "Friday" - Explore the historical origins of the name 'Friday,' deeply rooted in Norse mythology and Old English. This enlightening episode uncovers the captivating history behind the day of the week.
808: "TR-808"
Interesting Things with JC #808: "TR-808" - The Roland TR-808, a legendary analog drum machine, profoundly impacted music history, driving a revolution in electronic and hip-hop music. Its iconic sounds, from the booming kick drum to snappy snares, have left an indelible mark on countless genres.
799: "Lillie Langtry"
Interesting Things with JC #799: "Lillie Langtry" - Explore the fascinating life of actress Lillie Langtry, who rose to fame in the Victorian era and became the mistress of King Edward VII, leaving a mark on British society. From her theatrical success to her scandalous love affair, Langtry's story is one of intrigue and allure.
796: "10:10"
Interesting Things with JC #796: "10:10" - Ever wondered why watches always show 10:10 in ads? It's a fascinating tale of aesthetics and history. Discover the secret of 10:10 and the meaning behind this unique advertising choice.
775: "Minorcan Mike's Datil Pepper Saga"
Interesting Things with JC #775: "Minorcan Mike's Datil Pepper Saga" - Embark on a spicy journey through the culinary heritage of St. Augustine, guided by Minorcan Mike. Discover the rich history of datil peppers, their cultivation, and the sensory symphony they create in this flavorful narrative. Tune in to explore a taste of history and heritage on the podcast!
A very special thank you to “Love Shack BBQ” for suggesting today’s episode.