This week, Jasmine and Michael start off strong with talk of textbook cover designs and allergies. After a fun two-parter full of games, it’s back to business with smiles and positive news stories from around the world.

The Wheel of Topics dives into weird purchases. Michael uses his Ashes & Embers to share his thoughts on the finale of “And Just Like That”, while Jasmine keeps hers short and sweet and then gives us our weekly affirmation.

Grab a drink (but not the Cognac, just in case), pull up a comfy seat, and join us for this week’s pleasant conversations!

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Good News Links:

A science museum is using its 100-acre forest to support mental health: https://www.vermontpublic.org/local-news/2025-08-12/montshire-museum-norwich-healing-forest-to-support-mental-health

Reef regeneration trial underway on the Great Barrier Reef: https://www.australiantimes.co.uk/news/reef-regeneration-trial-underway-on-the-great-barrier-reef/#

Solar panels that fit on your balcony or deck are gaining traction in the US: https://apnews.com/article/balcony-plug-solar-climate-energy-renewable-trump-c162abf520da0fa155dc971270b8684a

African SCENe: bringing clean energy to low-income communities in Nairobi: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/vision/vision-african-scene-project-brings-clean-energy

At this Vermont summer camp, kids with incarcerated parents ‘don’t have to hide’: https://www.vermontpublic.org/local-news/2025-08-19/at-this-vermont-summer-camp-kids-with-incarcerated-parents-dont-have-to-hide

Neb. inmates train dogs with help of partner program: https://www.corrections1.com/treatment/articles/neb-inmates-train-dogs-with-help-of-partner-program-IAa4d4REOBNuxODm/