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That's Life, I Swear

Arts & Culture Podcasts

Every Wednesday, join Rick Barron as he unravels the intricate threads of life's most captivating stories. From heart-pounding political dramas to the awe-inspiring challenges of climate change, he explores the topics that shape our world and define...

Location:

United States

Description:

Every Wednesday, join Rick Barron as he unravels the intricate threads of life's most captivating stories. From heart-pounding political dramas to the awe-inspiring challenges of climate change, he explores the topics that shape our world and define our era. But this isn't just another talk show. Rick delves deep into the human psyche, examining our beliefs, behaviors, and the obstacles we overcome. He celebrates our triumphs and embraces our imperfections, uncovering the profound lessons hidden in everyday experiences. The episodes are a journey of self-discovery as he shares stories that mirror our collective identity. These tales aren't just entertaining – they're a reflection of who we are, who we were, and who we aspire to be. They carry the weight of our ancestral legacy, the fire of our dreams, and the depths of our pain. With each episode, you'll confront your deepest anxieties about yourself, your place in the world, and the future that awaits us all. In understanding these complexities, you'll find inspiration, connection, and perhaps even transformation. "That's Life, I Swear" isn't just a podcast – it's a weekly rendezvous with the extraordinary nature of ordinary life. Subscribe now, wherever you get your podcasts, and join Rick on this unforgettable exploration of the human experience. After all, that's life, I swear.

Language:

English


Episodes
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WhatsApp vs iMessage: Why Americans Are Switching

4/22/2026
Send us Fan Mail Learn why Everyone's Using WhatsApp Now: Group Chat Features iPhone Users Love Supporting links 1. WhatsApp New Features 2025-The Ultimate Guide to Practical Functions [Omnichat] 2. WhatsApp Communities vs Groups: Understanding the Key Differences [Periskope] 3. New WhatsApp Features That Make Life SO Much Easier!-2025 [YouTube] 4. WhatsApp History [Wikipedia] 5. Jan Koum co-founder and former CEO of WhatsApp [Wikipedia] 6. Brian Acton [Wikipedia] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear websiteOther topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:16:22

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Book Review from Rick’s Library: Apple:The First 50 Years by David Pogue

4/21/2026
Send us Fan Mail The central lesson of Apple: The First 50 Years by David Pogue’s book, reminds us that the future isn’t something that happens to us, it’s something that gets built, one idea at a time. supporting links 1. Apple: The First 50 Years [Amazon] 2. Macintosh [Apple website] 3. Mac [Wikipedia] 4. Make Something Beautiful [Steve Jobs Archive] 1984 (commercial) {Wikipedia] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear websiteOther topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:12:50

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The Meaning Behind the Ghost Light

4/16/2026
Send us Fan Mail The ghost light that’s turned on in stage theaters isn’t just for safety… and it’s not just for ghosts. It’s for us—a quiet reminder that even when everything goes dark, we’re not ready to let the story end. Supporting links 1. Why Do Broadway Theatres Keep a 'Ghost Light' Burning on the Stage? [Playbill] 2. Haunted or Helpful? [Backstage] 3. Keeping Broadway's lights on [CBS NEWS] 4. Theatre Lore: All About the GHOST LIGHT [YouTube] 5. Looking back at Broadway's COVID shutdown [YouTube] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear websiteOther topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:13:18

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Book Review from Rick’s Library: My Name is Selma by Selma van de Perre

4/15/2026
Send us Fan Mail Learn about how Selma van de Perre joined the resistance during World War II. How she survived the unsurvivable, and what her life teaches us about courage, memory, and the fight against hatred that continues in our own time. supporting links 1. My Name Is Selma [Amazon] 2. Ravensbrücke [Holocaust Encyclopedia] 3. Nazi concentration camps [Wikipedia] 4. Dutch resistance [Wikipedia] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear websiteOther topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:12:05

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The Wikipedia Model: Internet's Most Trusted Site

4/8/2026
Send us Fan Mail Learn how Wikipedia spent 24 years building trust through consistent application of principles: verifiability, transparency, and neutrality. Supporting links 1. Jimmy Wales - Wikipedia’s Real Genesis Story, The Questioning Mind, and More [YouYube] 2. Wikipedians [Wikipedia] 3. The Depths of Wikipedians [AsteriskMag] History of Wikipedia [Wikipedia] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear websiteOther topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:21:44

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Is the Nobel Prize Broken?

4/7/2026
Learn how great institutions, like the Nobel Prize, can become outdated—and when they do, they start misrepresenting the very excellence they’re supposed to honor. Supporting links 1. Nobel Peace Prize [Wikipedia] 2. List of female Nobel laureates [Wikipedia] 3. Nobel Prize Organization [website] 4. Minneapolis for Nobel Peace Prize [The Hill] 5. The problem with Nobel’s ‘rule of three’ [CNN] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear websiteOther topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:17:25

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Joe Rogan: From Hype Man to Harsh Critic

4/2/2026
The takeaway is that when leaders like Trump break core promises or values that hold their coalition together, even their friendliest influencers, like Joe Rogan, can become powerful amplifiers of disillusionment. Supporting links 1. Joe Rogan [Wikipedia] 2. Joe Rogan Makes Dire Prediction in Scathing Attack on Trump’s War [The Daily Beast] 3. Joe Rogan [Instagram] 4. Joe Rogan [Website] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear websiteOther topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:12:41

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When the Mountain Fell: The Blatten Landslide Story

4/1/2026
Learn how the Blatten disaster in Switzerland, is a sobering reminder that our relationship with nature is not one of control but coexistence. Supporting links 1. This is ground zero for Blatten [The Guardian] 2. More melting giants to follow? [PreventionWeb] 3. Melting glaciers mean an uncertain future for Europe's rivers [NPR] 4. Glacial Losses in the Swiss Alps [Earth Observatory] 5. Global Maps [Earth Observatory] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear websiteOther topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:17:49

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Interview #30 Skip Lineberg: Unlocking Wisdom in a World of Too Much Information

3/31/2026
Summary Explore the profound differences between knowledge and wisdom with Skip Leinberg, host of The Main Thing podcast. Discover how wisdom guides us through life's challenges, the importance of civil discourse, and practical tools like wisdom cards to enhance personal growth. Supporting Links 1. Skip Lineberg [LinkedIn] 2. Skip Lineberg [podcast] 3. Skip Lineberg [YouTube] 4. Skip Lineberg [Instagram] 5. Skip Lineberg [website] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear websiteOther topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:01:00:28

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Interview #29 Jenny Chan: Pacific Atrocities Education - Uncovering the Pacific War's Hidden Stories

3/26/2026
In this episode, Rick Barron speaks with Jenny Chan, the co-founder of Pacific Atrocities Education, a nonprofit dedicated to uncovering and preserving the often-overlooked narratives of the Pacific War during World War II. Jenny shares her personal journey that led her to establish the organization, the importance of documenting survivor stories, and the challenges faced in educating the public about these historical events. The conversation delves into the impact of historical trauma on current geopolitical tensions, the significance of empathy in understanding history, and the role of interns in the organization. Jenny emphasizes the need for critical thinking regarding historical narratives and the importance of learning from the past to prevent future mistakes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pacific Atrocities Education 02:22 Jenny Chan's Journey and Motivation 05:44 Building the Organization and Website 09:24 The Impact of Survivor Stories 13:12 Internship Program and Its Importance 19:04 Surprising Discoveries in Research 22:31 Understanding Unit 731 and Its Horrors 29:48 Humanizing History: Personal Stories of War 31:56 The Impact of Interns: Discovering Hidden Histories 35:49 Engaging the Public: Outreach and Education Efforts 37:48 Expanding the Mission: Future Goals and Aspirations 39:14 Learning from the Past: The Importance of Historical Context 41:40 Personal Reflections: Insights Gained Through Research 45:53 The Emotional Toll: Interns' Reactions to Historical Realities 48:02 Survivor Stories: Healing Through Sharing 50:17 Questioning Narratives: The Need for Critical Thinking 52:36 Historical Trauma: Its Influence on Modern Policies Supporting links 1. Jenny Chan [LinkedIn] 2. Jenny Chan [Pacific Atrocities Education] 3. Pacific Atrocities Education [Instagram] 4. Pacific Front Untold [YouTube] 5. Pacific Atrocities Education [Facebook] 6. Pacific Fr Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear websiteOther topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:58:57

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Loyalists vs. Algorithms: Whole Foods’ Future with Amazon

3/25/2026
Learn how innovation and expansion come with real trade-offs, especially when a beloved brand tries to grow beyond its core identity. Supporting links 1. Whole Foods will transition to Amazon labor framework [Supermarket News] 2. The Whole Foods Story [Website] 3. Whole Foods Market [Wikipedia] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear websiteOther topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:17:37

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Book Review from Rick’s Library: The Secret of Secrets by Dan Brown

3/18/2026
The Secret of Secrets reinforces why Dan Brown remains a master of the modern thriller. His mix of historical intrigue, philosophical inquiry, and page-turning suspense keeps readers riveted from start to finish. supporting links 1. Dan Brown [Official Website] 2. Dan Brown [Wikipedia] 3. Dan Brown on the mysteries and mayhem in his new thriller [PBS News] 4. Robert Langdon Series [Goodreads] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear websiteOther topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:10:36

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Interview #28 Nikki Corbett: Courage and Community - Speaking the Unspoken

3/17/2026
Summary In this episode of 'That's Life, I Swear,' host Rick D Barron speaks with Nikki Corbett, the host of 'The Scarlet Edit,' a podcast that delves into the complexities of infidelity, divorce, and the gray areas of modern relationships. Nikki shares her journey into podcasting, the importance of speaking openly about taboo topics, and the profound impact these conversations have on both guests and listeners. The discussion highlights the significance of courage, community, and the power of storytelling in fostering connection and understanding. Nikki emphasizes that individuals are not defined by their past choices and encourages listeners to pursue the life and love they desire without fear of judgment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Courage and Community 06:10 Exploring Infidelity and Personal Stories 11:55 Anonymous Sharing and Vulnerability 17:59 Gender Perspectives in Openness 23:54 Personal Growth Through Conversations 31:01 Exploring Infidelity 36:08 Messages of Empowerment 43:09 Impactful Connections 48:40 The Power of Podcasting Supporting links 1. Nikki Corbett [Podcast] 2. Nikki Corbett [YouTube] 3. Nikki Corbett [Website] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear website Other topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:55:13

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Interview #27 Dr. Theresa Lyons: Redefining Autism - A New Perspective

3/12/2026
Summary In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Theresa Lyons shares her journey from being a scientist to an advocate for children with autism. She challenges the traditional views of autism as a lifelong condition, emphasizing the potential for improvement through functional medicine and understanding the root causes of symptoms. Dr. Lyons discusses the importance of communication between parents and children, the role of grandparents in the diagnosis process, and the emotional challenges faced by parents. She encourages parents to trust their intuition and highlights the growing body of research that supports the possibility of significant progress in autism treatment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Autism and New Perspectives 05:10 The Role of Functional Medicine in Autism Treatment 13:39 The Complexity of Autism Causes 20:58 The Importance of Grandparents in Autism Diagnosis 29:47 The Future: Independence and Dreams of Autistic Individuals 36:09 The Concept of Non-Persistent Autism 44:37 The Importance of Science in Autism Treatment 51:56 The Emotional Side of Parenting a Child with Autism 59:12 Living Without Limits: Embracing Possibilities Supporting links 1. Dr. Theresa Lyons [LinkedIn] 2. The Lyons Report 2020: Autism and Functional Medicine Doctors [Amazon] 3. Dr. Theresa Lyons [Website] 4. Navigating AWEtism with Theresa Lyons, PhD [YouTube] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear website Other topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:01:01:36

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Kyla Scanlon Explains America’s Casino Economy: When Risk Reigns

3/11/2026
Kyla Scanlon explains how America’s economy is no longer built on production, innovation, or shared prosperity — it’s built on speculation. Supporting links 1. Kyla Scanlon Explains Trumponomics [That’s Life, I Swear] 2. Kyla Scanlon: Gen Z’s Economic Guru Adviser [That’s Life, I Swear] 3. Kylascan [Instagram] 4. Kyla Scanlon [YouTube] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear website Other topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:16:58

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Who Protects Us When We Silence Science?

3/4/2026
Public health isn’t just a government line item. It’s the invisible shield that protects all of us. When that shield weakens, so does our collective safety. Diseases don’t wait for bureaucracy to catch up. They spread in the silence left behind when experts are told their work no longer matters. Supporting links 1. USAID [Wikipedia] 2. Will the next pandemic be caused by coronavirus again? George Fu Gao Interview [NSR] 3. Ebola [Wikipedia] 4. NIH's AIDS division [Website] 5. Zoonotic pandemic [Wikipedia] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear website Other topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:18:39

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Interview #26 Chris Watson: Embracing Adventure as The Journey Calls

3/3/2026
Summary In this episode, Rick Barron interviews Chris Watson, the creator and host of The Adventurers Diaries podcast. They discuss Chris's journey into podcasting, the philosophy behind his show, and the importance of adventure in personal growth. Chris shares insights on finding guests, creating authentic conversations, and the impact of his podcast on listeners. The conversation also touches on the significance of the 'pay it forward' segment, memorable episodes, and the human connection in adventure. Chris expresses his aspirations for future guests and adventures. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Adventure and Podcasting 02:48 Chris Watson's Journey to Podcasting 05:54 The Philosophy Behind The Adventurers Diaries 09:04 Finding Guests and Authentic Conversations 11:58 Bridging the Moonshot Gap 15:04 Impactful Calls to Adventure 17:55 Personal Growth Through Adventure 21:08 The Pay It Forward Segment 24:03 Podcasting Dynamics and Episode Lengths 27:00 Memorable Episodes and Lessons Learned 30:01 The Human Connection in Adventure 33:00 Future Aspirations and Guests 35:57 Speed Round and Final Thoughts Supporting links 1. Chris Watson [Website] 2. Chris Watson [Podcast] 3. Chris Watson [YouTube] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear website Other topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:56:17

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A Farewell Bathroom Flush: Saying Goodbye to REI SoHo

2/25/2026
Learn how REI’s Soho location wasn’t just a place to buy hiking boots or camping gear; it was a quiet refuge in a city that never seems to pause. Supporting links 1. REI [website] 2. REI [Wikipedia] 3. REI Co-op Store Closing [YouTube] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear website Other topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:14:13

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Vanishing Lifelines: The Hidden Cost of America’s War on Rural Health Care

2/18/2026
Learn how Health care access shouldn’t depend on your ZIP code, your income, or the politics of your state. This story is a reminder that when ideology drives health policy, it’s everyday people — not politicians — who pay the price. Supporting links 1. 759 hospitals at risk of closure, state by state [Becker’s Hospital Review] 2. Rural US town outraged as only hospital forced to shut [Guardian] 3. First responders detail the deadly cost of rural hospital closures [ABC NEWS] 4. The Crisis in Rural Health Care [Saving Rural Hospitals] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear website Other topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:14:33

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The Next Flood May Not Be Kind: New York’s Climate Reckoning

2/17/2026
Learn how flooding used to be framed as a coastal problem or a once-in-a-generation disaster. This story shows that’s outdated thinking. Supporting links 1. New York City’s Next Superstorm [YouTube] 2. Superstorm Sandy/New York [YouTube] 3. What Do Hurricane Categories Actually Mean? [Time] Climate Resiliency [NYC Planning] Contact That's Life, I Swear https://www.thatslifeiswear.com@RedPhantom@rickbarron.bsky.socialhttps://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Episode Review Apple PodcastThat's Life, I Swear website Other topics? Please email us Interviews https://www.thatslifeiswear.com/contact/ Listen to podcast audios https://apple.co/3MAFxhbhttps://spoti.fi/3xCzww4https://bit.ly/39CE9MB Other

Duration:00:15:54