Send us a text

How many languages exist in the world? The answer might shock you—7,000 distinct tongues, with one disappearing every 40 days. This linguistic extinction crisis represents one of humanity's greatest cultural tragedies, as each language contains unique perspectives, knowledge systems, and ways of understanding our world that can never be recovered once lost.

Between discussions of vanishing languages, we dive into the absurdity of high fashion with Giuseppe Zanotti's $1,000 "Amelia Invisible" jacket—literally selling nothing but a receipt and an empty box. When the Emperor's New Clothes becomes reality, who's the real fool? People are actually buying these non-existent garments, proving once again that luxury marketing knows no bounds.

Our deep dive into Florida Man territory brings us to a gas station (why is it always a gas station?) where an intoxicated customer attempted to pay for fuel with Monopoly money, insisting it was "legal tender in the Community Chest." With a blood alcohol level of 0.3, he's apparently tried this scheme at multiple locations, earning bans from five gas stations and three convenience stores across the region.

Being the most educational show on the radio this very second, we also explore the fascinating science behind the Tonka bean tree—nature's lightning rod that channels electrical strikes through its trunk to eliminate competing vegetation. When lightning hits, these remarkable trees funnel the energy straight into the ground, killing vines and ensuring their survival against all odds. It's a reminder that in the ongoing apocalypse, cockroaches and Tonka bean trees will likely be among the last standing.

From social media influence (apparently you only need 1,000 followers to be a "nano-influencer") to bizarre wedding stories from India, our educational journey covers ground that no classroom would dare. Join us every Tuesday on WOMR 92.1 FM Provincetown and WFMR 91.3 FM Orleans, or stream worldwide at WOMR.org. Because where else will you learn about invisible fashion, Monopoly money scams, and lightning-proof trees all in one hour?

Find our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/447251562357065/

Send us a text

A phone call from a relative can be many things – informative, exhausting, hilarious, or touchingly poignant. When Anne receives a call from her cousin Jan (of Jan and Jan™), it becomes all these things and more, unfolding into a masterclass on family dynamics and the art of conversation.

The episode begins with Anne sharing her discovery of an incredible vocalist named Nathan Farrell who performs a stunning Joni Mitchell cover. This musical appreciation leads to a nostalgic discussion about SCTV, the groundbreaking Canadian sketch comedy show that launched comedy legends like Eugene Levy, John Candy, and Martin Short. Anne and Michael encourage listeners to seek out these classic sketches online, acknowledging how they shaped comedy for generations.

Literature takes center stage as Anne provides candid reviews of recent reads. Elizabeth Strout's "Tell Me Everything" receives high praise for its engaging storytelling and page-turning quality, while Jodi Picoult's latest work is described as "laughably terrible" – a stark reminder that even established authors can disappoint. Gabrielle Zevin's "Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow" emerges as Ann's current literary obsession, highlighting the perpetual search for compelling stories.

The heart of the episode revolves around Anne's detailed recounting of a phone call with her cousin Jan. What begins as a discussion about cataract surgery evolves into a meandering journey through family connections, mysterious eye diseases supposedly affecting Jews from Odessa, and the economics of QVC shopping. Anne's masterful storytelling transforms this ordinary conversation into an extraordinary window into family relationships, generational differences, and the strange ways we connect with our relatives.

Environmental concerns emerge when Jan shares observations about Florida's drought conditions – dried-up fountains, absent birds, and disappearing wildlife create a sobering picture of climate change's real-world impact. The episode concludes with a poignant acknowledgment of Israel's Independence Day and the ongoing hostage situation in Gaza, reminding listeners that even in a show filled with humor, there's room for reflection on serious global issues.

Join us for this blend of storytelling, cultural commentary, and family chronicles that will have you laughing, nodding in recognition, and perhaps inspired to call your own eccentric relative. Listen now and become part of our extended family.

Find our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/447251562357065/

Send us a text

Pope Francis has passed, Sterling K. Brown's "Paradise" is mesmerizing television, and Michael has discovered the joy of creating music with AI. Welcome to another episode of The Anne Levine Show, where our conversations meander through culture, technology, and occasionally, the end of the world.

Michael enthusiastically shares his latest creative endeavor: writing lyrics and using AI to generate custom songs. From birthday tributes to twisted lullabies ("There are no ghosts under the bed... just a bit of blood and gore"), his creations showcase how technology can enhance rather than replace human creativity. The demonstration of these songs provides both entertainment and a glimpse into how accessible music creation has become through emerging technologies.

Our book recommendations transport you across time and experience: Paul Murray's epic "The Beasting" offers a sweeping family saga, while Paul Harding's "This Other Eden" explores mixed-race families on a tiny Maine island in the early 20th century. We also rediscover "Allied," a 2016 WWII film starring Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard that somehow flew under our radar despite its star power and compelling storytelling.

The most thought-provoking moments emerge when we contemplate existential questions raised by "Paradise" - what happens to art, culture, and human achievement during apocalyptic scenarios? Does the Vatican's priceless collection mean anything in a world where survival itself is threatened? These philosophical musings sit alongside lighter fare like the etymology of financial terms and debates about why Cape Cod men of a certain age favor ponytails.

Check out Michael's AI-generated songs at suno.com under "Michael Over There" and join us next week as we continue our journey through the meaningful, the curious, and occasionally the absurd. Your weekly reminder that education and entertainment need not be mutually exclusive.

Find our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/447251562357065/