Condensed Soup

In the U.S., the Real ID deadline is coming up -- are you ready? I let you know how I got through LAX security without a wallet (hint: get there early and smile), plus the constant struggle of an empathetic tipper...

Department of Homeland Security Real ID FAQs 

How do WSJ Readers Tip? (WSJ Instagram)

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Forget turning yourself into a cartoon character -- my favorite use for Chat GPT is as my personal help desk for anything. Plus, a simple ask from a diner with allergies, and Chattanooga's new point of pride as a National Park City!

https://chattanooga.gov/stay-informed/latest-news/its-official-chattanooga-becomes-first-national-park-city-north-america

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Send this one to your artist friends. And then maybe buy a ticket to a museum? 

Hundreds of Florida arts groups scramble for funding after DeSantis vetoes grants by Wilkine Brutus (NPR Morning Edition)

US marine band forced to cancel concert with students of color after Trump Kennedy Center takeover by Lucy Hicks Beach (Classic FM)

Ireland’s Basic Income for the Arts pilot scheme launched by Government (official press release)

Budget 2025: Basic Income for the Arts scheme extended with funding of €35m

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It's fish doorbell season! We can ALL get behind this fish doorbell. Then, I get way too emotional about women's hockey jerseys.

Human Nature (official)

Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth (official)

Visdeurbel fish doorbell (official)

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Just because you didn't get into college doesn't mean you can't have a party. And I let you into a couple more secrets: how to make sure the hotel loves you back, and an under-the-radar gaming paradise bar in Tokyo. 

Why high school seniors’ ‘rejection cake’ trend is going viral on TikTok by Rachel Hale (USA Today)

Are you the world’s worst hotel guest? Here’s how to tell (and redeem yourself) by Christopher Elliott (USA Today)

Feature: A Visit to '84 Hashi', Tokyo's Secret Nintendo Staff Bar Now Open to You by Tokyo Game Life

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This one starts off with a violent story, so use the timestamps to advance to the next one if you're not ready for that. The podcast ends happy, though.

Could you forgive someone who did you an ultimate wrong? I find a story of some inspiring and loving people -- and wonder what it takes to get to that point. And since I want to end every episode on a high note, we'll finish with an episode about a very, very, very good boy, and the dog that saved him.

Women hug gunman who killed family in racist 2019 Texas Walmart shooting by Jamie Stengel (AP)

Missing 2-Year-Old Spent Night in Arizona Wilderness Before Being Rescued by Rancher’s Dog 7 Miles from Home by Clare Fisher (People)

Should we be polite to our AI? What's the actual cost -- and can we just fix it? I go a little deep into the rabbit hole on this one. Please enjoy the wild ride! Thank you. 

Saying ‘Please’ and “Thank You’ to ChatGPT Costs OpenAI ‘Tens of Millions of Dollars’ by Sherin Shibu (Entrepreneur)

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If you watch all the Best Picture nominations every year, you're better than some Academy members. And also -- does it matter? Plus a story of a real-life movie moment that starts with quicksand and ends with a happily ever after (fingers crossed. It's a little too early to tell.).

And never fear -- If I mention both quicksand and movies, there will be a reference to Princess Bride. 

As you wish!

Oscars will now require members to see all nominated films before voting to determine Academy Awards winners by Joey Nolfi (Entertainment Weekly)

Man gets trapped in Lake Michigan quicksand, emerges with a girlfriend by Kara Berg (The Detroit News)

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Air travel: does anyone still wear a hat? Do you dress up to fly? Also, I give you a rundown on Southwest's new seating policies and a tip to save on your next ride to the airport. 

Southwest seating policies (official)

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Condensed Soup is hiring! I'm looking for someone to help me once-in-a-while with post-production work. Listen to the episode for details and please contact me at [email protected] if you have a lead! Plus, tips or rideshare passengers -- even if you use them all the time. 

Uber, Way launch ‘interest list’ for autonomous rides in Atlanta by Daniella Genovese (FOXBusiness)

‘Incredibly concerning’: Facebook black market groups offer ride share and delivery driver accounts for sale, researchers say by Clare Duffy (CNN)

10 Rideshare Safety Tips You Should Know (Sabrered.com)

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