Welcome to Ponderland, Episode 53! Recorded on May 28th, 2025, David dedicates this entire episode to a fascinating deep dive into Council Bluffs, Iowa. Inspired by a listener from this very city, David embarks on a journey to uncover its rich history and unique character.

Before delving into Council Bluffs, David gives a quick update on the English Premier League – including a lament about Manchester United's worst-ever finish and a brief, condemning mention of a disturbing incident at Liverpool's title celebrations. He also reiterates his stance on the ongoing Gaza situation, advocating for a two-state solution.

The main focus, however, is Council Bluffs. Drawing from research (including insights from Google Gemini!), David reveals:

• Its pivotal role as the "Gateway to the West" and a terminus for the Transcontinental Railroad.
• Key historical milestones, from Lewis and Clark's council with Native Americans to its days as Kanesville and its connection to Mormon settlers.
• Notable figures who called Council Bluffs home, including Amelia Jenks Bloomer (the suffragist who popularized bloomers!) and Dr. Lee DeForest, known as the "Father of Radio" – a direct precursor to podcasting!
• A captivating exploration of Council Bluffs folklore and unique stories, such as the mysterious Black Angel statue, the eerie Squirrel Cage Jail (reportedly haunted!), the city's beloved black squirrels, and the unexplained Big Lake Park Fireball incident of 1977.

This episode is a testament to the unexpected history and intrigue hidden in plain sight. Tune into Ponderland Ep 53 for a captivating journey through the past and present of Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Ponderland, Episode 52! Join David as he takes you on a thought-provoking journey from the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza to the philosophy of rebellion in Star Wars and why adults often ruin things for kids. Recorded on May 21st, 2025, this episode is a passionate call for empathy and understanding in a complex world.

David begins by focusing on the devastating UN reports of 14,000 babies facing starvation in Gaza, powerfully arguing that no action justifies such suffering. He envisions a two-state solution as the ultimate utopia, emphasising that organisations like Hamas are born out of oppression, not prosperity. This leads to a deep dive into the ethics of rebellion, drawing parallels with the nuanced portrayal of resistance in Disney+'s Andor, a Star Wars story.

The discussion broadens into a reflection on how adults inadvertently ruin things for children, urging listeners to consider looking at the world through a child's innocent, logical eyes.

To balance the heavy topics, David shares some personal updates: his efforts to get back into cycling amidst beautiful Northern Ireland weather, and his excitement for the All-Ireland Football Championship, including a review of a recent LGFA ladies' final. He even gives a heartfelt pub recommendation for The Village Inn in Killyclogher, County Tyrone, for anyone visiting.

This episode blends heartfelt commentary on global humanitarian crises and geopolitics with personal anecdotes and a unique perspective on human nature. Tune into Ponderland Ep 52 for David's latest ponderings on children, conflict, culture, and life's simple pleasures.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Ponderland with David! In Episode 51, David is back sooner than expected to dive into the thoughts that have been occupying his mind.

First up, he tackles UK Politics, spurred by listening to The News Agents podcast. David discusses the controversial comparison being made between current UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and the infamous Enoch Powell over immigration rhetoric. He explores the complexities of migration, the idea of necessity vs. a "free ride," and whether societies truly want integration or remain an "island of strangers."

This leads to a philosophical ponder: Is everything in the universe being cosmically recorded? Like a universal memory or a celestial cinema? David shares childhood thoughts on this and reflects on the sadness of lost recordings, including memories of his old band, Epitaph, and a missing video of their gig.

David also gives an update on his writing journey, promoting his new Substack at davidbkelly.substack.com (subscribe for free!).

Finally, in a dramatic turn, David recounts a very recent and alarming near-death experience involving Flaming Hot Cheetos, reflux, and a moment where he thought he was choking on spicy seasoning clumps. A vivid, personal story that makes you question what events, if any, might not make it into that cosmic record!

Join David for another unique and wide-ranging discussion that jumps from current events and geopolitics to philosophy, personal history, and unexpected moments of peril.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.