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.

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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.

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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.

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After a break, David is back with a packed episode of Ponderland, diving into everything that's happened since March. Your host shares his unvarnished thoughts on a world that hasn't stood still.

Tune in as David catches you up on major global events, including the passing of a Pope and the unexpected rise of the first American pontiff, Pope Leo the 14th – and what his leadership could mean for the Catholic Church's future.

But it's not all religious transitions. Get David's candid take on the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, the complexities of international relations, and the human cost of global crises.

Shifting gears (but not the pondering), hear about David's trip to the cinema that turned into an unexpected lesson in modern youth culture (and the F-word), plus his thoughts on the ever-growing landscape of streaming services and the films and shows worth watching (hello, Andor!).

The episode also tackles economic ripple effects, the controversial topic of taxing the wealthy, and the tenth anniversary of the Paris Agreement with a dose of reality about climate action. David even shares a personal reflection on the concept of billionaires in a world with poverty.

From geopolitical hotspots and economic debates to movie reviews and personal musings, this episode of Ponderland is a sprawling, personal, and thought-provoking journey through the recent past, guided by David's unique perspective.

If you're ready for a host who isn't afraid to speak their mind on a wide range of topics, from the profound to the slightly absurd, then welcome back to Ponderland with David.

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

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

In this episode of Ponderland, David dives into a week of bizarre news, starting with a strange social media post from a certain president and the questionable antics of his billionaire associate. He then recounts a nerve-wracking experience flying on a turboprop plane, reflecting on aviation safety and his growing fear of flying. David also touches on the latest developments in the Middle East, the shifting political landscape, and a rare celestial alignment of seven planets.

Join David for a captivating blend of personal anecdotes, reflections on current events, and a touch of cosmic wonder.

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In this episode of Ponderland, David delves into the complex world of geopolitics, starting with a controversial proposal to relocate the population of Gaza and the shifting alliances between world leaders. He discusses the implications of these events for international relations and expresses concern about the increasing instability in the Middle East. David also reflects on his birthday and shares a hopeful message about the importance of personal values and making a positive impact in the world.

Join David for a thought-provoking discussion on global politics, personal growth, and the power of hope in uncertain times

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