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[00.00] What Is the Real New Year Anyway?

• Barry Shore opens with signature joy and sets the tone for a deep dive into the concept of New Year’s.
• Challenges the assumption that January 1st is the natural or universal New Year.
• Points out that in many ancient and current cultures, spring or autumn is the more logical time for a new year.
• Reveals how the Roman calendar once had only 10 months, explaining why “December” means ten but is now the 12th month.
• Shares how January 1st may have been chosen in alignment with Jesus’ eighth day of life—a fascinating link to circumcision.
• Celebrates the beauty of learning and encourages lifelong learning as a path to happiness and transformation.
• Invites listeners to download a free e-book to start the year with action and purpose.

[10.22] Caesar, Calendars, and Cultural Shifts

• Julius Caesar stepped in when the Roman civic and ceremonial calendars were out of sync.
• With help from Greek astronomers, he created a new calendar: 12 months, leap years, and what we now call July.
• Originally, New Year began March 25th—a season of renewal that made logical sense.
• The Catholic Church later saw misalignment again and Pope Gregory XIII reformed the calendar.
• Introduces the political tension between Pope Gregory and England’s King Henry VIII.
• England refused to accept the Gregorian calendar for nearly 200 years.
• Sets the stage for a global puzzle of misaligned dates and religious versus civic traditions.

[17.26] April Fools and the Battle of Calendars

• England officially adopted the Gregorian calendar in 1752, finally syncing with most of Europe.
• Citizens literally “lost” 11 days during the shift—February 11 became February 22.
• Reveals that April 1st used to be celebrated as New Year’s, hence the origin of “April Fools.”
• Russia resisted the Gregorian calendar until 1919 after the Communist revolution.
• Many Eastern Orthodox Christians still celebrate Christmas and New Year in January.
• Explains how Augustus followed Julius Caesar in calendar fame by naming August after himself.
• A new understanding: our holidays are steeped in politics, religion, and historical power plays.

[26.13] Holiday Toy Joy with Anna D’Souza

• Barry welcomes Anna D’Souza to talk holiday gifting on a joyful and budget-friendly note.
• Anna recommends shopping with intention: know how your kids play and shop accordingly.
• Emphasizes avoiding the “toy graveyard” by choosing items that match kids’ personalities and play styles.
• Suggests picking a “superstar” gift with smaller supporting surprises.
• Highlights affordable, quality toy options at Target under $20.
• Encourages hands-on, open-ended play like LEGO Creator sets and imaginative games.
• Anna brings the cheer with practical tips to make parents’ lives easier and kids’ holidays magical.

[31.27] Smarter Gifting, Less Stress

• Anna and Barry explore how to shop smarter with tools like ChatGPT and Target.com integrations.
• AI-driven gift finders now let parents get customized toy recommendations in seconds.
• Flexible shopping options like same-day delivery and in-store pickup help simplify the season.
• Highlights fun and functional gift picks for a wide age range, including the Gigglescape Yeti.
• Emphasizes creative trends like mini fridge restocking sets and nostalgic toy designs.
• Reframes holiday shopping as an act of joy and connection, not just consumerism.
• Concludes with a virtual group hug and blessing for joy, happiness, peace, and love.