At Cardinal Keyboard day a few weeks ago I had the opportunity to observe a masterclass and lecture by Elizabeth Grace, M.M. Ms. Grace is an expert in the Taubman Approach, a holistic method of movement that attempts to eliminate tension that could cause injury, specifically for pianists. Dorothy Taubman (1917-2013) believed that “if playing the piano doesn’t feel delicious and euphoric, you’re doing something wrong,” and she studied anatomy thoroughly to develop a system of coordinate motion that would prevent injury before it began.

Ms. Grace discussed the principle of alignment (joints moving naturally as opposed to straining or moving in unhealthy ways) as well as stability vs. mobility (joints as systems of leverage that should be powerful and properly balanced but still able to move quickly) in her lecture, as well as addressing troublesome habits such as curling the fingers, twisting at the wrist, collapsing knuckle joints, stretching in unnatural ways, and isolating digits from the palm when playing the piano. Instead, she suggested some good methods for maintaining proper alignment, like sitting at the proper height and distance from the piano, using whole-body movement, and ensuring the torso, forearm, hand and fingers, and thumb remain aligned but not tense when practicing. She also recommended that pianists utilize techniques such as horizontal movement into the keys, confirming correct fingering, and taking mid-range notes with different hands, all of which should be noted on the score as best practice. 

If you or someone you know experiences pain or tension when playing piano or any instrument, please research the Taubman Approach for a helpful and holistic set of techniques to eliminate misalignment that could cause injury. We are often told as musicians that pain is just something that happens when you practice for long periods of time and should be ignored as a sign that your muscles are underdeveloped, and this is why many musicians suffer injury or near-injury before realizing that it’s not a lack of physical strength, but a lack of knowledge and technique causing the issue.

For Keeping Up With the World

The Daily and Today Explained

• What they are: Both are daily news podcasts that break down current events in a way that’s easy to follow.
• My take: I listen to these pretty interchangeably. On a good day, I’ll listen to both, but if I don’t have time I just pick whichever episode sounds more interesting. For me, they’re less about enjoyment and more about making sure I know what’s happening.
• Who will like it:  Anyone who wants to stay informed without constantly scrolling the news. Especially good if you’re busy and just want a quick, clear breakdown of one major story.
• Where to start: Just start with today’s episode—that’s the whole point.

For Politics, Culture, and Strong Opinions

In Bed with the Right

• What it is: A podcast analyzing right-wing ideas about gender, sex, and sexuality, and how they still shape politics today.
• My take: This one feels really thoughtful but still engaging. It helps you see how certain ideas have evolved.
• Who will like it: People interested in feminist theory, political ideology or understanding the cultural roots behind modern politics.
• Where to start: The two-part series on Phyllis Schlafly.

5-4

• What it is: A podcast about the Supreme Court of the United States and how political its decisions really are.
• My take: This is basically anger and sarcasm in podcast form. It’s very snarky and opinionated, but also really effective at explaining complicated legal cases.
• Who will like it: Anyone who enjoys political commentary with personality, especially if you like podcasts that are a little blunt.
• Where to start: “Bush v. Gore” – you’ll immediately get the tone.

Diabolical Lies

• What it is: A long-form culture and politics podcast that digs into media, power and the stories we believe.
• My take: This is my favorite podcast right now but it’s definitely not for everyone. It’s slower and really focused on unpacking ideas.
• Who will like it: People who like deep dives into culture and politics, and don’t mind something more thoughtful and less fast-paced with a little (or a lot) of snark. 
• Where to start: If you are more interested in culture I would recommend “Is There a ‘Skinny Apocalypse’ in Hollywood?” If you want more political analyses try  “Why America Can’t See Gaza”

For True Crime 

Crime Junkie

• What it is: A weekly true crime podcast covering everything from missing persons to major cases.
• My take: I think it deserves the hype; it’s easy to follow and consistently interesting. But if you’re only picking one Ashley Flowers podcast, I wouldn’t start here. As much as I love this podcast, International Infamy, is an even better introduction to the world of true crime.
• Who will like it: Anyone new to true crime (or podcasts in general) and are looking for something straightforward and consistently engaging.
• Where to start:  “Infamous: Darlie Routier part 1”

International Infamy

• What it is: Also hosted by Ashley Flowers, this podcast explores infamous crimes from around the world.
• My take: I binged this one. I really enjoyed the global scope, and the fact that it’s short (only 15 episodes) makes it feel very manageable and easy to get.
• Where to start: Honestly, any of the 15 episodes. Since it’s a short series, it’s easy to jump in anywhere and just go from there.

Final Thoughts

If you’re trying to get into podcasts, don’t try to listen to everything at once. Pick based on your mood. The hardest part is just starting—but once you find the right episode, it’s easy to get hooked.

Favorite Vacation: 

A. Beach Day      B. Mountains     C. Shopping spree   D. Sports Camp   E. Touring Europe 

Who do you get advice from?

A. My Parents     B. My Friends      C. Myself     D. My Coach   E. My Teacher 

What is your favorite way to spend your time? 

A. Reading  B. Playing Sports  C. Listening to Music   D. Crafting   E. Performing Musicals

What is your go-to color?

A. Purple   B. Blue    C. Green   D. Red  E. Pink

Which side character was your favorite?

A. Taylor   B. Coach Bolton  C. Martha  D. Zeke  E. Ms. Darbus 

What is your favorite article of clothing?

A. Sneakers  B. Jeans  C. Polo Shirt  D. Jersey  E. Dress

What is your favorite Disney Channel Original Movie? 

A. Lemonade Mouth   B. Camp Rock   C. Zombies   D. Starstruck   E. Teen Beach Movie 

The new HBO max series, Heated Rivalry, centers on two NHL superstars playing for rival teams whose public animosity hides a private, long-running relationship. What begins as an impulsive encounter develops into a years-long connection shaped by playoff battles, media pressure, and the constraints of being closeted in professional hockey.

One of the show’s strongest elements is the acting, particularly from Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams. The two leads are relatively new actors, and that works in the show’s favor. Their performances feel natural and unforced, which keeps the romance believable. They commit to the relationship without overselling it. They play the awkwardness, competitiveness, and gradual emotional shift with restraint. The chemistry builds in a way that feels consistent rather than exaggerated. It also helps that the actors seem comfortable with each other off-screen; that familiarity translates into small, convincing moments in scenes. The quieter exchanges like pauses in conversation and subtle shifts in expression, are handled with as much care as the more overtly romantic scenes.

Despite operating on a noticeably modest budget, the show makes strategic choices that keep the focus where it belongs: on the characters. The hockey scenes rely on tight camera work and editing rather than sweeping arena spectacle, which prevents the sport from overshadowing the relationship. Many of the most important moments happen in confined spaces (such as locker rooms, hotel rooms and apartments) to emphasize the secrecy and isolation that define their connection. 

What distinguishes the series from many mainstream sports dramas is its focus on a queer relationship between two men who are genuine equals. Both are elite athletes at the top of their careers. They share comparable status, income, skill, and public recognition. Because of that symmetry, their conflicts are not driven by hierarchy but by personality differences and emotional hesitation. The tension comes from pride, rivalry and the difficulty of sustaining intimacy under constant scrutiny, not from one character holding structural power over the other.

The show also presents a version of masculinity that is competitive without being toxic. On the ice, the players are aggressive and focused on their performance, reflecting the intensity of professional hockey. Off the ice, the series allows them to show vulnerability, frustration and care for each other. Their emotional restraint is portrayed as part of navigating the sport’s culture, not as an inherent personality trait.Ultimately, Heated Rivalry stands out because it keeps the story grounded and focused. The relationship develops gradually through rivalry, hesitation, and small moments of trust rather than big dramatic gestures. By showing two equal men navigating intimacy in a competitive, high-pressure environment, the series portrays a believable and relatable romance.