A Short Story Podcast Series
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Interesting Things with JC is free to use for teaching and learning under fair use. Educators, homeschooling parents, librarians, and lifelong learners have broad rights to use the episodes and curriculum in any instructional setting. One exception applies to Episode #509: “Harry Chapin and Jim Connors”, which is not covered under this open educational permission.
Full curriculum support begins at Episode #1235: “Three Turns to Freedom”. Any earlier episode without curriculum can be prioritized by request. Educators may contact JimConnors LLC directly, and a matching curriculum module will be created and added to the site.
Teachers and homeschooling families are welcome to use, play, share, print, and adapt all eligible episodes and curriculum materials for lesson planning, instruction, student assignments, LMS uploads, and any other direct educational activity. No special approval is required for everyday classroom use. Crediting the show is appreciated when possible.
This permission does not extend to commercial activity. The episodes and curriculum may not be repackaged, resold, redistributed as a standalone program, or presented as original work by any third party. Any commercial or branded use requires prior written consent from JimConnors LLC. Episode #509: “Harry Chapin and Jim Connors” follows its own restrictions and is excluded from open educational use.
Educators may freely use the content in classrooms, homeschools, co-ops, tutoring programs, library settings, and adult education. They may revise or adapt curriculum pages, print transcripts, share episode links, or integrate materials into their lessons as needed. What is not allowed is turning the work into a paid course, selling derivatives, posting content under another brand, or redistributing the series as a separate product.
Summary:
Free for education.
Not for resale.
Not for commercial repackaging.
Episode #1235: “Three Turns to Freedom” and onward includes full curriculum.
Older episodes can receive curriculum by request.
Episode #509: “Harry Chapin and Jim Connors” is excluded.
All rights reserved © JimConnors LLC. -
Interesting Things with JC is available on the Podcast Radio format in the United Kingdom and the United States. Listeners can tune in on the radio in select cities or stream the station online from anywhere.
United Kingdom – Podcast Radio (UK)
Podcast Radio is a 24-hour all-podcast station based in London. It broadcasts on DAB+ digital radio across London and several other supported UK regions, with full worldwide access through its online stream.
Interesting Things with JC is included in Podcast Radio’s curated programming lineup.
Listeners in the United Kingdom can hear the station on DAB+ receivers in covered areas, through the Podcast Radio website, or through the station’s online and mobile streaming platforms.
United States – Podcast Radio US
In the United States, Interesting Things with JC airs as part of Podcast Radio US across four regional markets. The format is carried on HD Radio channels and FM translators.
Detroit, Michigan: WCSX 94.7 HD2 and 93.5 FM
Tampa Bay, Florida: 1010 WJBR AM
Charlotte, North Carolina: 94.7 FM and WSOC HD3
Fort Myers and Naples, Florida: WXKB HD2, 96.5 FM, 101.5 FM, and 105.1 FMNationwide listening is available through the station’s website at PodcastRadioUS.com.
Streaming Access
Podcast Radio UK and Podcast Radio US both offer live streaming through their official websites and mobile platforms, allowing listeners worldwide to hear Interesting Things with JC as part of the network’s curated programming.
The show is also available across major podcast and audio platforms, including Podcast Radio, Podverse, Headliner, Amazon, Apple, Audacy, Audible, Castbox, Deezer, fyyd, GoodPods, iHeartRadio, JioSaavn, Listen Notes, Pandora, PlayerFM, PocketCasts, Podcast Republic, Podchaser, Spotify, Stitcher, and YouTube.
In addition to audio platforms, listeners can follow and stream content on social media through Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), TikTok, and YouTube.
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Start class with a short, clear story your students can follow from the first sentence. Play an episode of Interesting Things with JC and use the free curriculum to guide a full lesson with questions, activities, and applied learning.
Every episode from #1235 forward includes a modular micro lesson designed for a 30 to 45 minute class period. At the bottom of each episode page, you will find expandable sections that organize all curriculum materials for teachers, parents, and homeschool families.
Each lesson includes:
Lesson overview with title, grade band, subject area, and learning objectives
Key vocabulary with phonetic spelling and plain language definitions
Core story content created through the Precise Storytelling Framework
Full podcast transcript
Student worksheet with comprehension and writing activities
Teacher guide with pacing notes, strategies, and discussion tools
Quiz or quick check assessment with a scoring rubric
Standards alignment across multiple national and international frameworks
ADA compliant alt text for all instructional media
Links to approved primary sources used for fact checking
Guidance for homeschool adaptation and flexible scheduling
All curriculum materials are created through the Narrative Intelligence System to ensure accuracy, accessibility, and age-appropriate delivery. Lessons stay free of ideological frameworks and focus on academic content only.
Standards Alignment
Interesting Things with JC aligns each micro lesson with the following approved educational standards:
United States National Standards
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
Common Core State Standards (CCSS) in English Language Arts and Mathematics
College, Career, and Civic Life Framework for Social Studies (C3 Framework)
International Society for Technology in Education Standards (ISTE Standards)
National Core Arts Standards (NCAS)
Career and Technical Education Career Clusters (CTE Career Clusters)
Association of College and Research Libraries Framework for Information Literacy (ACRL Framework)
Bloom’s Taxonomy for Cognitive Learning Objectives
Universal Design for Learning Guidelines (UDL Guidelines)
Additional United States Alignment Areas
Alignment to state and provincial academic standards when content applies
Media and Information Literacy standards
Social Emotional Learning and 21st Century Skills frameworks
Financial Literacy and Employability Skills standards
English as a Second Language and World Language vocabulary support when applicable
International Academic Equivalents (Content-Based Alignment Only)
United Kingdom National Curriculum, Key Stages 3 to 5
AQA, OCR, and Edexcel Examination Board Specifications
International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme (IB PYP, MYP, DP)
Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education and Advanced Subsidiary/Advanced Level (Cambridge IGCSE and AS/A Level)
Access, Use, and OER Licensing
All lessons are published as Open Educational Resources and may be used, printed, or shared for teaching and learning in classrooms, homeschools, and tutoring environments. Materials are provided for educational use under fair use and may not be resold or distributed commercially.
Episodes from #1235 forward include complete curriculum materials. If you find an older episode without a micro lesson, reach out and it will be moved to the front of the build queue. Starting with Episode #1307, each MP3 page in the RSS feed includes open text at the bottom of the page for quick access to transcripts and curriculum notes.
Teacher and homeschool feedback is always welcome to help improve clarity and layout.
019: "The Gin Craze of 18th Century London"
Interesting Things with JC #019: "The Gin Craze of 18th Century London" - It caused widespread social disruption in London due to cheap, accessible gin. Many households were involved in the gin trade, leading to a public health crisis. The moral outrage and Gin Acts that followed highlight the complex relationship between addiction and government regulation.
017: "London Stone"
Interesting Things with JC #017: "London Stone" - The London Stone is a historic limestone artifact in central London, steeped in mystery and legend. Often considered the symbolic heart and protector of the city, its origins and purpose remain largely unknown. Referenced by Shakespeare and believed to date back to the 1100s, this enigmatic stone continues to fascinate historians and visitors alike.
016: "Bok Tower Gardens"
Interesting Things with JC #016: "Bok Tower Gardens" - A National Historic Landmark in central Florida, was dedicated in 1929 by Edward W. Bok as a sanctuary of beauty and tranquility. Created by the Pulitzer Prize-winning author, this serene oasis invites visitors to explore its lush landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. The gardens reflect Bok's vision of providing a beautiful retreat for future generations.
Thank you to “LoveShackBBQ” for suggesting today’s episode.
015: "The Seven Sisters Cliffs"
Interesting Things with JC #015: "The Seven Sisters Cliffs" - The Seven Sisters Cliffs, located on England's southern coast, are renowned for their stunning white chalk formations and panoramic sea views. Part of the South Downs National Park, these cliffs offer a pristine example of natural beauty and are a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
014: "The Roman Baths in Bath"
Interesting Things with JC #014: "The Roman Baths in Bath" - Discover the Roman Baths in the city of Bath, showcasing remarkable ancient Roman architecture and a long history of healing and relaxation through its thermal waters.
013: "The Falkirk Wheel"
Interesting Things with JC #013: "The Falkirk Wheel" - Explore The Falkirk Wheel, Scotland's pioneering rotating boat lift that seamlessly connects two major canals. This impressive structure not only facilitates transportation but also showcases cutting-edge engineering and innovation in the UK.
012: "The Whispering Gallery at St Paul’s Cathedral"
Interesting Things with JC #012: "The Whispering Gallery at St Paul’s Cathedral" - Step into St Paul’s Cathedral to hear the whispers of history echo through the famed Whispering Gallery. This architectural and acoustic marvel allows whispers to be heard clearly across the dome, enchanting visitors with its unique sound design.
011: "The Secret Nuclear Bunker at Kelvedon Hatch"
Interesting Things with JC #011: "The Secret Nuclear Bunker at Kelvedon Hatch" - Explore the once-hidden Kelvedon Hatch Nuclear Bunker in Essex, a relic of Cold War fears and preparations. This underground site provides a stark reminder of the tension and readiness that defined the era.
010: "The Time-Eating Clock of Cambridge"
Interesting Things with JC #010: "The Time-Eating Clock of Cambridge" - Experience the Corpus Clock at Cambridge, where art meets engineering in the form of the Chronophage, a mechanical creature that marks time by 'eating' it. This innovative clock not only tells time but also tells a story of life's fleeting moments.
009: "Britain's Oldest Pub"
Interesting Things with JC #009: "Britain's Oldest Pub" - Explore the fascinating history of Ye Olde Fighting Cocks in St. Albans, the oldest pub in Britain. Delve into its tales of monks, royal visits, and its namesake sport, providing a living history lesson in pub culture.
007: "The Labyrinth of Shell Grotto"
Interesting Things with JC #007: "The Labyrinth of Shell Grotto" - Explore the mysterious Shell Grotto in Margate, discovered in 1835 and adorned with over 4.6 million shells. Its origin remains a mystery, making it a fascinating subject for historians and visitors alike.
006: "Lundy Island's Time Zone"
Interesting Things with JC #006: "Lundy Island's Time Zone" - Discover Lundy Island, unique for having its own time zone, 25 minutes behind until 1978, reflecting its slow-paced, isolated lifestyle. Known for its distinct postage stamps and rich wildlife, the island offers a glimpse into a truly unique British locale.
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.
003: "The Poison Garden"
Interesting Things with JC #003: "The Poison Garden" - Delve into the intriguing world of The Poison Garden at Alnwick Garden, a unique collection of plants that are as dangerous as they are beautiful. This educational tour highlights the sinister yet fascinating aspects of toxic and narcotic botany.
001: "The Smallest House in Great Britain"
Interesting Things with JC #001: "The Smallest House in Great Britain" - Explore the charming and tiny red house in Conwy, known as the smallest in Great Britain. This unique dwelling showcases the extreme of minimalist living, providing a glimpse into the life of its last towering resident.
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.