A Short Story Podcast Series
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Episodes vary in duration from 30 seconds to 8 minutes.
All episodes are royalty free in their entirety—except for #509.
If you have an idea for an episode, please reach out to our team and we’ll happily schedule the topic for a future recording.
Priority is given to homeschooling parents, teachers, educators, and lifelong learning professionals.
Select episodes now include free curriculum materials at the bottom of the episode page, designed to support open education initiatives, teachers, classrooms, and homeschool use. These materials are aligned to multiple educational standards globally.
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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 over the air in various cities: in Detroit on 93.5 FM and WCSX-94.7 HD2, in Tampa on 1010 WHFS-AM, in Charlotte on 94.7 FM and WSOC-HD3, and in Ft. Myers/Naples on 96.5 FM, 101.5 FM, 105.1 FM, and WXKB-HD2.
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Curriculum Summary for Educators, Homeschoolers, and Lifelong Learners
Interesting Things with JC now features free curriculum materials to go with select episodes, created for teachers, homeschool families, and curious learners of all ages.
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.
To review examples, check out any episode from #1235 to today, just scroll down.
Beginning with Episode #1307 we’re shifting to an open text format at the bottom of every MP3 page in the RSS. This should allow greater ease of access.
If you are using the curriculum your feedback is greatly appreciated, that’s how iterations like this continue to drive changes in the layout, and useability.
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If you intend to feature the series on your podcast or use it in your broadcast feed as interstitial content, please tag us on social media and/or send us an email.
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.
773: "US Route 62"
Interesting Things with JC #773: "US Route 62" - Embark on an epic 2,246.9-mile journey along US Route 62, connecting two nations. Explore the history, culture, and natural wonders, from Niagara Falls to Roswell's UFO tales.