Who Threw The Curve?'s podcast

By: Who Threw The Curve?
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  • Summary

  • 🎙️ Who Threw the Curve with Robert Ruiz🎙️

    Diving deep into the social and political landscapes, Robert Ruiz brings his signature blend of sharp wit and humor to every episode of "Who Threw the Curve." Whether you're a seasoned news junkie or just looking for some fresh perspectives with a side of sarcasm, this podcast has something for everyone. Join us as we navigate the twists and turns of today's most pressing issues, one curveball at a time. Prepare to be informed, entertained, and occasionally outraged—it's all part of the ride.
    Copyright Who Threw The Curve?
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Social Sciences
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Episodes
  • Zosia: The 17th-Century ‘Vampire’ Buried with a Blade Over Her Neck

    Zosia: The 17th-Century ‘Vampire’ Buried with a Blade Over Her Neck
    Jan 24 2025
    Alright, let’s sink our teeth into the legend of Zosia, the 17th-century ‘vampire’ who’s giving archaeologists sleepless nights. Brace yourself for a darkly humorous journey through history's macabre side. Here we go:

    the 17th century—a time when people believed bathing was optional, witch hunts were all the rage, and anyone who seemed a tad too lively after death was automatically labeled a vampire. Enter Zosia, the unfortunate soul who found herself at the center of a terrifying and bizarre burial practice. Researchers are now peeling back the layers of this eerie tale, and it’s every bit as spine-chilling as you'd hope.

    The Discovery

    In a quaint village in Poland, a team of archaeologists stumbled upon something straight out of a gothic horror novel: a skeleton with a blade strategically placed over the neck. The locals probably whispered tales of Zosia, the vampire who wouldn't stay dead, necessitating such drastic measures. Because, you know, nothing says “Rest in Peace” like a sharp blade ready to decapitate you at the slightest sign of movement.

    The Vampire Hysteria

    Back in Zosia’s day, folks were a tad obsessed with vampires. Any unexplained death, plague, or night terrors were often blamed on these nocturnal bloodsuckers. If you died under suspicious circumstances or even looked a bit too healthy post-mortem, congratulations! You were a prime candidate for vampiric accusations. The cure? A blade over your neck, just in case you decided to pull a Lazarus and come back from the dead. It’s a foolproof plan, right? Because if you’re going to be an undead menace, you might as well make it interesting.

    The Science Behind the Superstition

    Modern researchers, armed with science and a healthy dose of skepticism, are diving into the real story behind Zosia. Turns out, the whole “vampire” gig might be less about drinking blood and more about a misunderstanding of decomposition. Corpses can bloat, shift positions, and even appear to bleed as they decompose, which freaked out our ancestors to no end. Instead of chalking it up to natural processes, they went with the more exciting explanation: vampire!

    The Practicality of Blades

    Let’s talk about the blade itself. While it might seem excessive to us, it was a practical (if gruesome) solution for the terrified villagers. In their minds, it was a necessary precaution to ensure Zosia didn't rise from her grave for a midnight snack. Because nothing ruins a good night’s sleep like your dead neighbor knocking on your door, asking to borrow a cup of blood.

    Modern Interpretations

    Fast forward to today, and Zosia’s tale is less about superstition and more about understanding our past fears and practices. Researchers are uncovering more about burial customs, disease control, and the lengths people went to for peace of mind. It’s a fascinating glimpse into a time when the line between life and death was a bit blurrier, and the solutions were, shall we say, more direct.

    In the end, Zosia’s story is a darkly humorous reminder of how far we've come in understanding life, death, and the things that go bump in the night. While we might chuckle at the idea of a blade-wielding grave, it’s a testament to the human desire for safety and control, no matter how misguided. So, the next time you hear a creak in the night, remember Zosia and be grateful for our modern, less stabby ways of dealing with the unknown.
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    4 mins
  • The Final Curtain Call: Pets and Their Heartbreaking Final Act

    The Final Curtain Call: Pets and Their Heartbreaking Final Act
    Jan 24 2025
    Ladies and gentlemen, gather around as we embark on a bittersweet journey through the whimsical world of our beloved pets, who, according to some, have the uncanny ability to know precisely when they’re going to kick the bucket. Yes, you heard it right—our furry friends are apparently psychic sages in fur coats, preparing to leave us with one last tear-jerking performance that could rival a Shakespearean tragedy.

    Now, picture this: Fluffy the cat, who has spent the last decade knocking over your prized vase collection and scratching up the furniture, suddenly becomes a feline version of Gandhi, exuding an aura of peace and tranquility. You walk into the room, and there she is, perched regally on her favorite windowsill, staring into the sunset as if she’s pondering the meaning of life. You think to yourself, “Wow, Fluffy must have finally found inner zen.” Little do you know, Fluffy is actually rehearsing her final act—a heart-wrenching goodbye that will leave you sobbing into your morning coffee.

    The notion that pets are clairvoyant harbingers of their own demise is both fascinating and, let’s be honest, a tad melodramatic. It’s like they’ve been binge-watching soap operas and decided to outdo the most dramatic plot twists. “Oh, you think that cliffhanger was intense? Hold my kibble,” says Rover, your golden retriever, who has suddenly taken up a peculiar interest in your lap and gazes at you with soulful eyes as if he’s about to reveal the secrets of the universe.

    In reality, pets are masters of the art of living in the moment—a skill many of us humans could stand to learn. Their so-called “final acts” are less about them knowing they’re about to cross the rainbow bridge and more about them sensing changes in their own bodies and reacting in the only way they know how: by sticking close to their favorite humans. It’s both touching and a little bit manipulative, don’t you think? It’s as if they’re saying, “You’ve taken care of me all these years, now it’s my turn to make sure you never forget me. Ever. Seriously, ever.”

    Take Buster the hamster, for instance. Buster has spent the majority of his life running in circles on a wheel, blissfully unaware of the concept of mortality. But one day, he decides to escape his cage for the final time, embarking on an epic adventure across the living room floor. You find him under the couch, looking up at you with those beady eyes, and you swear there’s a glint of wisdom there, as if he’s saying, “This is it, human. Remember me as the explorer I was meant to be!” It’s a scene straight out of a Disney movie, complete with a sweeping orchestral score.

    Of course, the reality is far from cinematic. Pets, much like people, experience a range of emotions and physical sensations as they approach the end of their lives. Their clinginess and sudden displays of affection can be attributed to discomfort, pain, or simply a desire for comfort in their final days. It’s not so much a calculated final act as it is a natural response to their changing condition. But where’s the fun in that explanation? The idea of our pets staging a grand finale is far more entertaining—and let’s face it, we could all use a good cry now and then.

    So, the next time you notice Mr. Whiskers curling up on your lap more often than usual, or Spot following you around like a shadow, don’t panic. They’re not plotting their final exit with the precision of a Broadway director. They’re simply seeking solace in the person they love most—you. And if, in the process, they manage to pull off a performance that leaves you reaching for the tissues, well, that’s just the cherry on top.

    In conclusion, while the idea of pets knowing exactly when they’re going to die and performing a heartbreaking final act is a touching narrative, it’s also a testament to the deep bond we share with our animal companions. They may not be psychic, but they sure know how to tug at our heartstrings. So, let’s cherish those final moments, however they unfold, and remember that in the grand theater of life, our pets are the stars who make every scene unforgettable. Bravo, Fluffy and Rover. Bravo.
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    5 mins
  • Why Personal Branding Can Feel Uncomfortable, and Why You Need to Do It Anyway

    Why Personal Branding Can Feel Uncomfortable, and Why You Need to Do It Anyway
    Jan 24 2025
    personal branding. The modern-day necessity that promises to catapult you from an indistinguishable face in the crowd to a shining beacon of individuality. It’s the digital age’s equivalent of peacocking, but instead of feathers, you’re showing off your résumé, LinkedIn endorsements, and a carefully curated Instagram feed. If your skin is crawling just thinking about it, you're not alone. Personal branding can feel as awkward as teenage you at a high school dance. But, like those cringe-worthy dance moves, it's something you just have to go through. Let’s dive into why personal branding feels like an uncomfortable necessity, with a splash of sarcasm and humor to ease the pain.

    The Awkwardness of Self-Promotion

    Let's face it: self-promotion can feel about as natural as a cat walking on its hind legs. We’ve been conditioned to believe that humility is a virtue, that talking about our achievements is akin to bragging, and that boasting is best left to peacocks. So, when we’re told to create a personal brand, it feels like we’re being asked to transform into self-obsessed narcissists overnight. Imagine being at a party and someone asks what you do. Instead of a simple answer, you launch into a TED Talk about your life, complete with PowerPoint slides and a Q&A session. Awkward, right?

    But fear not, dear reader. You don’t have to turn into a walking billboard for yourself. The key is to strike a balance between showcasing your strengths and maintaining that sweet, sweet humility. Think of it like this: if you don’t toot your own horn, how will anyone know you’re a musician?

    The Cringe Factor of Social Media

    Ah, social media—the digital stage where everyone is the star of their own show. If you’re not already an influencer, the idea of posting selfies with motivational quotes can feel downright cringe-worthy. You might think, “Who cares about my morning coffee ritual or my thoughts on productivity hacks?” Spoiler alert: more people than you’d think.

    The trick is to find your own voice. You don’t need to mimic the latest TikTok star or Instagram model. Instead, share what genuinely interests you. Are you passionate about underwater basket weaving? Great! Post about it. Your unique interests make you stand out. Plus, you’ll attract an audience that shares your enthusiasm for obscure hobbies.

    The Fear of Being Judged

    One of the biggest reasons personal branding feels uncomfortable is the fear of judgment. What if people think you’re a try-hard? What if they don’t like your content? What if you become the subject of a group chat roast? These fears are valid, but let’s put them into perspective.

    First, people are already judging you. Harsh, but true. Whether you’re posting online or staying in the digital shadows, people form opinions about you based on what they see. By controlling your personal brand, you’re at least guiding that narrative. Second, the people who matter—your future employers, clients, or collaborators—are more likely to appreciate your efforts than mock them. And if someone does make a snarky comment? Well, that’s just free publicity.

    The Inevitable Impostor Syndrome

    Impostor syndrome is the uninvited guest at the personal branding party. It’s that nagging voice that says, “Who do you think you are, trying to be an expert? You’re a fraud!” The truth is, everyone feels like a fraud at some point. Even the most successful people have moments of doubt. The difference is, they push through it.

    Here’s a little secret: you don’t have to be the world’s leading expert to have a personal brand. You just need to know more than the average person about your topic. Share your journey, your mistakes, and your successes. People love a good underdog story, and your authenticity will resonate more than a polished façade.

    The Benefits Outweigh the Discomfort

    Now that we’ve wallowed in the uncomfortable aspects of personal branding, let’s talk about why you should do it anyway. Personal branding isn’t just a vanity project—it’s a powerful tool for professional growth. A strong personal brand can open doors to new opportunities, from job offers to speaking engagements. It can establish you as a thought leader in your field, making you the go-to person for advice and insights.

    Moreover, a personal brand helps you build a network of like-minded individuals. These connections can provide support, collaboration opportunities, and even friendship. In a world where who you know can be as important as what you know, a well-crafted personal brand is invaluable.
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    7 mins

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