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.
715: "The Chinese Water Deer"
Interesting Things with JC #715: "The Chinese Water Deer" - Unveil the captivating tale of this unique animal, its tusks, and wetland lifestyle!
714: "Tall Fescue"
Interesting Things with JC #714: "Tall Fescue" - Explore the captivating journey of a resilient grass that arrived from Europe to grace American lawns. Witness its emerald allure and strength in this intriguing tale! This episode was inspired by the TikTok feed of Tony Reed.
713: "Cellulitis - The Hidden Threat"
Interesting Things with JC #713: "Cellulitis - The Hidden Threat" - Explore the origins, treatments, and worst-case scenarios of this insidious skin infection. Stay informed and protect yourself.
712: "SLOTHS: Breath Holding Wonders"
Interesting Things with JC #712: "SLOTHS: Breath Holding Wonders" - Discover the astonishing breath-holding abilities of sloths! Learn about their unique respiratory adaptations and how they can stay submerged for up to 40 minutes. Unveil the secrets of these remarkable creatures!
Thank you to Elizabeth G. for today's topic!
711: "Microplastics"
Interesting Things with JC #711: "Microplastics" - Learn about the tiny plastic particles found in cosmetics, personal care products, and even in our bloodstream. Discover their environmental impact and potential risks to human health.
710: "Trinity Site"
Interesting Things with JC #710: "Trinity Site" - Delve into the historical significance of the Trinity Site, where the world's first atomic bomb was detonated, shaping the course of history. Explore the remote location, witness the mushroom cloud, and reflect on the birth of the Atomic Age.
708: "Megalodon"
Interesting Things with JC #708: "Megalodon" - Dive into the ancient depths with our latest episode as we explore the fascinating world of the Megalodon, a massive extinct shark that once ruled the seas. Learn about its enormous size, formidable teeth, and diet of whales and large fish. Discover the mysteries of this prehistoric predator!
707: "Micrography Unveiled"
Interesting Things with JC #707: "Micrography Unveiled" - Discover the fascinating world of micrography, where intricate letters and symbols create captivating art. From ancient manuscripts to modern masterpieces, this story unravels the secrets behind this unique artistic technique. Explore the fusion of language and creativity that brings images to life.
706: "Saharan Dust Storms"
Interesting Things with JC #706: "Saharan Dust Storms" - Discover the incredible journey of Saharan dust as it travels thousands of kilometers, impacting air quality worldwide. Learn about the health effects, climate impact, and fascinating facts surrounding these dust storms.
705: "Squatting for Evacuation"
Interesting Things with JC #705: "Squatting for Evacuation" - Discover the remarkable advantages of squatting for optimal digestion and bowel health. Learn how this natural posture can alleviate constipation and prevent pelvic floor disorders.
703: "The Dynamic Legacy of the Surgeon General"
Interesting Things with JC #703: "The Dynamic Legacy of the Surgeon General" - Delve into the captivating history of the Surgeon General's role in American healthcare, from its inception with Walter Wyman to its modern-day impact. Discover the groundbreaking policies, societal influence, and future innovations that have shaped our nation's health.
702: "Pressure Treated Lumber"
Interesting Things with JC #702: "Pressure Treated Lumber" - Discover the fascinating history and remarkable benefits of treated lumber, a building material that protects against decay, insects, and time's relentless pursuit. Uncover the secrets of its pressure-treating process and explore eco-friendly alternatives.
700: "Ancient Language Breakthrough Using A.I."
Interesting Things with JC #700: "Ancient Language Breakthrough Using A.I." - Discover the breakthrough collaboration between Google Translate AI and experts decoding the ancient language of Akkadian, shedding light on the secrets of the past.
697: "Swimming Feather Stars"
Interesting Things with JC #697: "Swimming Feather Stars" - Dive into the captivating realm of swimming feather stars, mesmerizing marine creatures with their elegant appearance and graceful swimming skills. Learn about their feathery arms, filter-feeding habits, and unique locomotion. Explore the wonders of these underwater ballet dancers!
693: "Harmful Algae Blooms"
Interesting Things with JC #693: "Harmful Algae Blooms" - Learn about harmful algal blooms and their impact on our waters, health, and environment. Discover how these excessive algae growths can harm aquatic life, contaminate drinking water, and why it's important to avoid contact with them.
692: "Heat Dome"
Interesting Things with JC #692: "Heat Dome" - It's a weather phenomenon characterized by a prolonged period of intense heat and stagnant conditions.
It forms when a high-pressure system traps hot air near the surface, leading to extreme temperatures and heatwaves, as seen in record-breaking events like the 2021 Canadian heatwave and the historic Middle Eastern heat dome of 2016.
688: "WARPED! The Mysterious World of Dishwasher Melt"
Interesting Things with JC #688: "WARPED! The Mysterious World of Dishwasher Melt" - Discover the captivating story that unravels the mystery of items melting in dishwashers! Delve into the world of intense heat and unsuitable materials as you uncover practical advice on handling melted items and preventing future mishaps.
687: "Synthetic Chicken"
Interesting Things with JC #687: "Synthetic Chicken" - Lab-grown synthetic chicken, also known as cultured chicken or cell-based chicken is produced through tissue engineering and cellular agriculture. This product has recently been approved for consumption and sale in the United States as of June 21st, 2023.
686: “What is the Ifremer Victor 6000?”
Interesting Things with JC #686: “What is the Ifremer Victor 6000?” - Let's learn about the history and specifications of this amazing deep sea remotely operated vehicle. It is one of the few vessels on Earth capable of reaching the Titanic debris, and will aid rescuers in their search for the Titan submarine, which went missing on Sunday, June 18th, 2023, with five people aboard.
685: “Cacti Have Skeletons?”
Interesting Things with JC #685: “Cacti Have Skeletons?” - Cacti's incredible adaptations: woody stems & spines instead of skeletons!