Explore every episode of the podcast Prague Times
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| THERE - Yet More UNESCO | 24 Mar 2022 | 00:32:51 | |
THERE - Yet More UNESCO We finish off the UNESCO listings for CZ with the most recent additions, all in Bohemia, three of which are shared with other countries. Delve into the history of mining, horses, forests and spas, and get some great weekend getaway ideas. See a images of these places in the video version of this episode.
SECTIONS 01:40 - Erzgebirge/Krušnohoří (Ore Mountains) Mining Region - Jáchymov, money, radium, pits and more 07:55 - Landscape for Breeding and Training of Ceremonial Carriage Horses at Kladruby nad Labem - The Great Pardubice Steeplechase, a historical stud farm and more in the area 10:36 - Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe - Jizera Mountains, Ještěd, the Long waterfall, Jablonec nad Nisou, Liberec, Frýdlant 16:33 - The Great Spa Towns of Europe 17:41 - Mariánské Lázně (Marienbad), the Boheminium 21:43 - Karlovy Vary (Karlsbad), drinks and spa wafers, Loket 25:49 - Františkovy Lázně (Franzenbad) 28:52 - The Bohemian Spa triangle area - forests, lookouts, botanical gardens, geological parks, chateaus, the Spiral Tower of Krásno, Cheb (Eger) 30:52 - A quick recap of all 16 CZ UNESCO sites
More Info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| THEN - Charles IV | 24 Feb 2022 | 00:14:28 | |
THEN - Charles IV (1346-1378) The Luxembourgs now produce the man who would become known as Charles IV - considered by many to be the greatest Czech of all time. He'd found Charles University, commission St. Vitus and Charles Bridge, design New Town, move the capital of the Holy Roman Empire to Prague, build a LOT of castles, and generally do awfully good things for the lands of Bohemia and Moravia.
SECTIONS 01:10 - A childhood in prison, then in France, a wife, Italian adventures, a throne 04:18 - Another wife, German adventures, the path to Emperorship 06:13 - Urban improvements, Prague becomes the cultural center of Europe, Emperor at last 07:47 - He finds Karlovy Vary, no more Italian adventures, improving Nuremberg, a third wife, lots of castles and a Golden Bull, more infrastructure projects, (finally) a son, a fourth wife, another son 11:02 - The Golden Age - restructuring the HRE, treaties, various land claims, in vino veritas 12:33 - The legacy of Charles IV
More Info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| TOUR - Prague Haunts 1 | 21 Oct 2021 | 00:41:12 | |
TOUR - Prague Haunts 1 Prague is reputedly the most haunted city in Europe. Yet it’s not very big, really. So it should not be surprising that there are some areas and streets in town that are heavy with the ghost action. This is a tour episode designed for you to take yourself to several haunted spots in Prague's Hradčany and Malá Strana districts. You can follow along as you go or listen and take notes to bring with you.
SECTIONS 01:41 - Hradčany - start at U Černého vola, go to Loretánské náměstí 01:56 - Černínský palác - Contract from beyond the grave 04:42 - Bread shoes 07:21 - Dům U Drahomířina sloupu & Drahomira's Column 10:17 - Evil echoes through history 11:22 - The Loreto 12:42 - Origin of the bells 13:50 - The sorrowful widow 15:16 - The song of the bells 16:14 - Inside the Loreto, St. Wilgefortis - the bearded lady 17:29 - Walk to Úvoz 18:07 - The headless monk 19:08 - Walk to Nerudova 19:58 - The headless Swede 21:39 - Statues of Moors at Morzinský palác 22:29 - The devil child at Fragnerova lékárna U Černého orla 23:42 - The white lady of the Lichtenstein Palace 24:39 - Beer break: Malostranská beseda 25:32 - The skeleton with a nail in its head 27:38 - The obese merchant at Waldštejnská hospoda 30:20 - Ruprecht the bugler 31:15 - Walk to Karmelitská, the Church of Our Lady Victorious and The Infant Jesus of Prague 31:54 - Ghost with a nail in its tongue 34:05 - Grammar snob ghost 34:41 - Walk to Na Prádle and the Church of John the Baptist in the Laundry 35:37 - The miserly widow, the priest & his two goats 37:28 - The headless horse 38:37 - Optional: Pagan grove on Petřín Hill 39:09 - Walk down Újezd, past the Memorial to the Victims of Communism 39:48 - The Nightmare Horror Bar
More Info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: DONATE HERE Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| HERE - The Long & Short of Prague | 07 Oct 2021 | 00:39:06 | |
HERE - The Long & Short of Prague (Superlatives 1) Prague tops a lot of lists because, well, it's a super place! So why not look at some super superlatives in the city? In this episode, we look at some of the longest and shortest things in Prague.
SECTIONS 01:39 - Prague ranks high on lots of lists 02:54 - Bridges 07:21 - Public transportation - escalator, distance btwn. stations/stops, routes 10:38 - Tunnels 15:52 - Block building 16:40 - A brief history of paneláks 20:57 - Square (inc. a brief history of Václavák) 25:49 - Streets 33:39 - Streams
Mentioned in this episode:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: DONATE HERE Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| NOW - Re-use, Recycle, Upcycle | 23 Sep 2021 | 00:35:16 | |
NOW - Re-use, Recycle, Upcycle Guest: Matouš Pinkava, CEO of nevyhazujto.cz, reuseto.cz & goodooga.cz The Czech Republic is focused on sustainability and Prague is very much onboard with that. Many initiatives and projects are happening or are in the works, and the future for the city looks pretty green. I talk with Matouš Pinkava, who heads a few such projects in town, about recycling, upcycling, re-use, wishcycling, downcycling and more. See a video version on our YouTube channel. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page!
SECTIONS 1:31 - Don't throw it away - nevyhazujto.cz, reuseto.cz 05:14 - An easy app, cities get involved 08:09 - Re-use points in Prague give things a second life 14:25 - Circular economy projects in Prague 22:27 - Re-use is the future, Czechs recycle, wishcycling 24:42 - Upcycling, downcycling, supply & demand 26:50 - Goodooga.cz - business get on board with waste prevention and re-use 30:09 - A long way to go but positive change is in the air
More Info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| GLUG - In Czecho Veritas | 09 Sep 2021 | 00:44:24 | |
GLUG - In Czecho Veritas (Czech wine country & culture) See a video version on our YouTube channel. Sure, this country is known for beer, but there's also a thriving wine industry here as well. We'll dive into the history, regions, types and celebrations of Czech viticulture culture. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:40 - History of Wine in the Czech Lands 06:39 - Wine Regions 07:07 - Bohemia (Mělník, Litoměřice) 09:34 - Moravia (Slovácko, Velké Pavlovice, Znojmo, Mikulov) 15:01 - Grape varieties 15:38 - White wine grapes 20:18 - Red wine grapes 24:01 - Vinobraní & burčák (plus part of the winemaking process) 29:37 - More of the winemaking process, Sudové víno (cask wine) 31:36 - Vinotéka vs. vinný sklep vs. vinárna 34:16 - Wine vaults (banka vín) 34:53 - Wine trails (vinařské stezky) 36:16 - Bohemia Sekt 42:15 - Wine spritzers (vinný střik)
More Info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| THEN - End of the Line: The Last Přemyslids & John the Blind | 26 Aug 2021 | 00:26:55 | |
THEN - End of the Line: The Last Přemyslids & John the Blind See a video version on our YouTube channel. The time of the Přemyslids was coming to an end on the throne of Bohemia. Václav II puts in good work, but then Václav III sort of drops the ball, opening the door for a stepfather, a Habsburg and then the Luxembourgers. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:33 - Václav II (1278-1305) - expanding Bohemia & stealing a crown 07:24 - He did a pretty good job 08:09 - Václav III (1305-1306) - assassination in Olomouc, last of the line 11:21 - Henry the Carinthian (1306, 1307-1310) - only Přemyslid by marriage, Rudolf I (1306-1307) - King Porridge 14:33 - John the Blind of Luxembourg (1301-1346) - Papa was a rolling stone, dad to Charles IV 23:55 - Even dead, John's was a ramblin' man
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| THERE - 6 More UNESCO Sites | 12 Aug 2021 | 00:34:51 | |
THERE - 6 More UNESCO Sites CZ is small but dense with history and beauty. We take a look at six more locations to have made it on the UNESCO World Heritage List, this time mainly focusing on Moravia. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:22 - Gardens & Castle at Kroměříž (1998) 04:41 - Zlín 07:46 - Holašovice Historical Village Reservation (1998) 09:43 - Holašovice Stonehenge (a tourist trap) 11:08 - Litomyšl Castle (1999) 14:39 - The Portmoneum & other museums 15:55 - Svitavy & Česká Třebová 16:44 - Holy Trinity Column in Olomouc (1999) (plague columns) 21:33 - Tugendhat Villa in Brno (2001) (Functionalism & Modernism) 28:36 - Jewish Quarter & St Procopius' Basilica in Třebíč (2003) 32:29 - Archeological finds in the area, chateaus (Náměšť nad Oslavou, Jaroměřice nad Rokytnou, Budišov), NPP Dukovany & castles (Templštejn)
More Info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| LIT - Čas proměn’ (Time of Changes) w/Mark Baker | 29 Jul 2021 | 00:40:45 | |
LIT - Čas proměn' (Time of Changes) w/Mark Baker Guest: Mark Baker, journalist and author - new book Čas proměn' out now! Writer Mark Baker has been in the region for most of his life, writing new articles, guide books for Fodor's and Lonely Planet, a blog and much more. When he was asked to evaluate the time of the Velvet Revolution from his own perspective, it gave him a chance to visit and re-evaluate that period of history as well as hid own life. The result is Čas proměn', a personal look at a time when history became very personal indeed for a large swath of Europe. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:40 - The rationale for the book 04:47 - 1989 in a nutshell 10:18 - 1990 is an underappreciated year 16:13 - 1991-92: The Prague Post & difficult times 18:25 - Chill out, past Mark 21:39 - Left bank of the 90s 25:48 - The Globe café & bookstore 33:23 - Ghosts & memory 37:00 - Call it "The Changes"
More Info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| ARTS - In the Gallery w/Camille Hunt | 15 Jul 2021 | 00:30:22 | |
ARTS - In the Gallery w/Camille Hunt Guest: Camille Hunt, co-owner of Hunt Kastner Gallery *To see some images along with the talk, check out the video version on our YouTube channel.* There's a lot of art in Prague, but what is it, exactly, that galleries do for contemporary artists? One of the owners of Hunt Kastner Gallery in Žižkov talks about the multiple roles of the gallerist, what exactly a collector is collecting, art fairs and more about modern art here in the Czech capital. Whether you're in the art world or just art world curious, there's a lot of interesting stuff in this conversation. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:40 - A French Canadian (not a French-Canadian), a Czech-forward gallery 05:26 - Far more than just wall space 10:17 - Come on in (Instagram-friendly) 13:38 - A gallerist's work is never done 18:06 - All's fair at the art fair 19:28 - Eye of the beholder - what collector's collect 23:19 - What is contemporary Czech art?
More Info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| LATER - Modern Architecture in Prague w/David Černý | 01 Jul 2021 | 00:25:40 | |
LATER - Modern Architecture in Prague w/David Černý Guest: David Černý - artist, sculptor, architect, pilot World-renowned Czech artist David Černý joins us for our one year anniversary episode, talking about how he got into art but mainly about the large-scale architectural projects he has planned here in Prague. Along the way, we talk about other modern buildings in the city, including some that will never get made at all. *See images & videos of the buildings and projects mentioned here (and more) in the video version on our YouTube channel (recommended!)* Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:11 - I was going to be a jet pilot 05:26 - Time is an essential part, kinetic sculptures 08:08 - Black N' Arch projects: Fragment 10:08 - Top Tower 14:35 - The Dancing House, proposal for Slav Epic Pavilion 16:23 - Zlíchov Distillery (Lihovar), Dog in Dock Winery in Veselí nad Moravou, other projects large & small (including a baby) 19:44 - Modern architecture hits and misses (Kotva, Hlavní Nádraží new terminal, Myslbek, Euro Palace, Nová Scéna of the National Theatre), UNESCO and the Pankrác skyscrapers 23:27 - The Blob - Jan Kaplický's neofuturist proposal for a new National Library
More info on stuff talked about:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| TOUR - David Černý in Prague | 17 Jun 2021 | 00:40:34 | |
TOUR - David Černý in Prague For images of all the works mentioned here, see the video version out our YouTube channel. Sculptor David Černý is perhaps the most notorious Czech artist today, with a sarcastic and sardonic wit that informs his large-scale, often kinetic, works. Subtle, he ain't. He's got 22 works here in Prague, and we'll take a tour of them all in this episode, going all the way back to beginning of his career through works from 2020. You can try to see them all in one day (takes about six hours) or in separate sections. Includes directions and area info as well. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:46 - The tour layout 02:29 - PART ONE - Outlying Areas (3) 02:31 - In Utero (2009) 04:10 - London Booster (2012) 06:11 - Beetle (Brouk) (2020) 06:58 - PART TWO - The City Centre (12) 07:07 - Babies on Žižkov Tower (2000, 2019) 10:12 - Horse (St. Wenceslas) (1999) 11:58 - "K" (Head of Franz Kafka, K on Sun) (2014) 13:48 - Women on a House (2004?) 15:04 - Sigmund Freud (1997) 16:33 - Václav Havel Memorial Plaque (2012) 17:39 - Embryo (2008) 18:42 - Gesture (2013) [now gone] 19:20 - Streams (Piss, Pissing Men) (2004) 20:37 - Quo Vadis (1990) 22:08 - Babies on Kampa (2008) 22:51 - Mlýnská Kavárna bar top (2011) 23:19 - Torso of a Tank (2018) [plus info on Pink Tank (Tank Number 23)] 29:07 - PART THREE - Prague 5 (6) 29:21 - Brown Nosing (2003) at the FUTURA Gallery 31:08 - Maso (Red Cars) (2007) at MeetFactory 32:49 - Speederman (2014) & Pegas (Pegasus) (2017) 34:14 - Trifot (2016) & Cyberdog (2018) at the Czech Photo Center 36:28 - BONUS: Monument to the Russian Liberation Army (2020) on Řeporyjské náměstí
More Info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| LIT - Prague Books | 10 Feb 2022 | 00:28:40 | |
LIT - Prague Books Guests: David Humphreys & Melissa Joulwan, Strong Sense of Place podcast Prague inspires people, and some of those people write books set there. We take a look at some books about the City of 100 Spires as well as some Prague lore with David Humphreys & Melissa Joulwan, who run the Strong Sense of Place podcast.
SECTIONS 01:25 - Prague: the First Episode of SSoP 02:39 - The Prague-Korea connection, living in a simulation, lighting Prague Castle 07:25 - Why they choose the books, Prague Noir 09:12 - The Wall: Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain 11:45 - Prague Spring (and more Mawer) 13:43 - Gottland: Mostly True Stories from Half of Czechoslovakia, Slavic narrative styles 18:27 - HHhH 20:16 - More books about Prague all the time 23:26 - Book shopping is fun 24:32 - Books that Smudge the cat likes, This Is the World: A Global Treasury, cartooning around 26:29 - We live in the future
More Info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| THERE - 6 UNESCO Sites in CZ | 03 Jun 2021 | 00:37:18 | |
THERE - 6 UNESCO Sites in CZ See pictures of these places in the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel. The Czech Republic isn't very big, but it's got more castles & chateaux per square kilometer in the world, some very well-preserved towns and scads of history. We also have 14 (and counting) UNESCO World Heritage sites. Today we take a look at the first six to make it on that list. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 02:18 - What is the UNESCO World Heritage List and who cares? 04:26 - Historic Centre of Prague (1992) & Průhonický park 08:12 - Český Krumlov (1992) 09:51 - Telč (1992) 11:32 - Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk, Zelená Hora (1994) 13:45 - Kutná Hora (1995) 17:15 - The Cathedral of Our Lady & the Bone Church at Sedlec 20:57 - In the area: Kolín, Konárovice (Crispin Glover's house), Čáslav, Vysoká near Miskovice 26:33 - Transport options for Kutná Hora (plus beer & food) 27:47 - Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape (1996) -Lichtensteins Amok! 29:15 - Some of the follies (Kolonáda na Rajstně, Belveder, Dianin chrám, Apollónův chrám, Kaple sv. Huberta, Hraniční zámeček, Tři Grácie, Janův hrad, Zámeček Pohansko, Obelisk, Maurská vodárna, Akvadukt) 32:38 - The Minaret (Minaret v lednickém zámeckém parku) 33:33 - The towns of Lednice and Valtice in the wine country, plus getting there
More Info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| EATS - Cookin' Up a Storm w/Isaac Starobin | 20 May 2021 | 00:40:38 | |
EATS - Cookin' Up a Storm w/Isaac Starobin Guest: Isaac Starobin, Chef/Owner of Dirty Dog BBQ It's a classic immigrant story - move to a new place, miss certain food items, make those food items. Isaac Starobin is bringing a taste of New York to Prague, experimenting like crazy and having a fine time while doing it. Not even the pandemic shutdown can contain what he is doing with Dirty Dog Barbeque, Cali Brothers, and Bohemia Bagel. And there are plenty more tricks up his sleeve. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:52 - Manifest(o) Destiny - NYC to Prague (starts & stops, ZOOna, Dirty Dog, Manifesto) 06:28 - Make what you want to eat 08:40 - Goulash or bust - Czech tastes evolve 12:07 - Feelings & food (and treat your people right) 19:23 - March 2020 = crisis mode 26:59 - Patron to partner - Bringing New York to Prague (Cali Bros., revitalizing Bohemia Bagel, ghost concepts) 34:42 - Kotva Backyard - Subs & bagels in the centre 36:53 - Gastro is a lifestyle (and chili ice cream)
See the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel for some mouthwatering pictures as well. #foodporn More info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| GLUG - A Czech Beer Primer | 06 May 2021 | 00:45:22 | |
GLUG - A Czech Beer Primer Beer - it's central to Czech social life, history and identity. Pretty much any Honza walking down the street just knows certain things about beer, having grown up in a culture saturated with it. This episode aims to give you the same background knowledge, so that you, too, can be on the same page as the locals. At least when it comes to the good stuff. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:35 - A brief history of beer 03:19 - Serious business - purity laws, brewing boom, brewing bust, breweries bounce back 06:48 - A matter of degrees 07:38 - How to make beer 11:58 - Beer styles (lager vs ale) 13:25 - Dark & light 14:33 - Hops to it 15:22 - Czech beer brands 21:34 - Budvar vs. Budweiser 27:57 - Post Velvet Revolution 28:45 - The proper pour (and types of pours) 33:38 - Czech pub culture & habits
See the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel for some enticing pictures as well For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| HERE - Dog Walks Prague w/Karen O'Rourke | 22 Apr 2021 | 00:26:29 | |
HERE - Dog Walks Prague w/Karen O'Rourke Guest: Karen O' Rourke, author of Dog Walks Prague Prague's already gone to the dogs - they're welcome everywhere. And they need to go walkies, as do their humans. Karen O'Rourke believes in the benefits of hiking and dog ownership so much, she's created a group for walkers, written a book about dogs walks in and out of Prague, and is working on a second book. She shares her ideas, some details and some of her favourite walks, both in Prague and out. Video version (with pictures!) on our YouTube channel. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:54 - Walking + dogs = happiness 07:41 - Dog Walks Prague - Prokopák Paradise (Prague 5) 11:00 - At our doorstep: wild horses, Milovice (50km NE of Prague), biodiversity, Cibulka (Prague 5) and Motol Forest 13:02 - THERE: Lochovice, Plešivecký hřeben & Fabian's Garden (50km SW or Prague); Lake Mácha & Mouse Island (75km north of Prague), Kokořín (40km north of Prague), Václav Nebeský & Božena Němcová and Ratibořice (130 km east of Prague) 15:50 - A plaque on your house - Čapek Villa (Vinohrady, Prague 2), Klamovka & Lenka Reinerová (Prague 5) 17:20 - Dog Walks Prague 2 - writers and more; Karel Jaromír Erben, the Wedding Shirt & Velhartice (145km SW of Prague), hiking trails in CZ 19:45 - You don't have to have a dog (but it helps) - Dog Walks Prague FB group, extinct volcanoes (Říp & Milešovská) & Píšťany (37-80km north of Prague), a multi-cultural experience
More info (plus links in the Sections section above)
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| XOVER - UFOs in Czecho w/Sam Beckwith | 14 Apr 2021 | 00:44:38 | |
XOVER - UFOs in Czecho w/Sam Beckwith Guest: Sam Beckwith, editor of Prague Pig The Czech Lands have had their fair share of UFO sightings over the centuries, including wingless capsules, flaming wheels, weird organic drones, tiny balls, giant figures, sliver men and more. It's time to delve into some high weirdness in Central Europe. This is a special extra episode as part of a crossover with our sister podcast Conspiracy Clearinghouse, which has it's 1st year anniversary today! Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:37 - UFOs as cultural phenomenon, as narratives 07:29 - Projekt Záře 09:06 - Vranov nad Dyjí - the most famous Czech sighting 13:26 - A saucer too far - Communists hate mysteries, Nazi UFO in Prague 15:39 - Centuries of sightings - flaming wheels, time-displaced tanks 19:36 - Slatiny, 1938, the Číhošť Miracle, Loose lips get you killed 21:27 - Ostružná Nová Ves - a teeny spacecraft that sucks, Miličín - balls and figures in Czech Siberia, Don't call me stupid 26:08 - Aliens tour our spa towns, The summer of '93 - sightings all over, including Svitavy 30:20 - The Silver Men (Stříbrňáci) 32:15 - Crop circles, Fidel's cigars, Are you normal? 36:12 - Universe People (Vesmírní lidé sil světla) - a Czech and Slovak UFO church 38:10 - Ashtar Galactic Command 40:54 - The Spooky Book and other Czech Forteana (coming soon!)
More on these topics
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| FOLKS - Democrats Abroad w/Julia Bryan | 08 Apr 2021 | 00:32:02 | |
FOLKS - Democrats Abroad with Julia Bryan Guest: Julia Bryan, Global Chair for Democrats Abroad Just because you're an American living outside the country, you can still vote. And you should. Organizations like Democrats Abroad are here to help make it as easy a process as it can be. We also talk about the Electoral College, HR1, the filibuster, her blog and more. Plus handy links for voters abroad from several countries in the episode notes. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:59 - Democrats Abroad - a stateless state party 04:35 - Your vote does count 06:16 - The Electoral College is archaic 07:29 - D.C. should be a state 08:09 - From Bohemia Bagel to global chair and success in 2020 12:15 - Come for a year, stay forever 16:22 - Kolo Kolo Mlynsky 17:43 - Getting involved in DA 21:28 - All politics is local 23:54 - HR1 - the For the People Act 25:56 - Bust the filibuster 28:56 - They're on your side
More on topics discussed
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| GLUG - The Oldest Pub in Prague | 25 Mar 2021 | 00:29:55 | |
GLUG - The Oldest Pub in Prague One way to explore Prague culture and history is to hit the historic pubs of the city. But which one is the oldest? Well, it depends on what you mean by "oldest". We take a look at 12 candidates that might fit the bill. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:49 - U Fleků - 522 unbroken years 05:29 - U Černého Vola - hostinec vs hospoda vs pivnice 09:42 - U Pinkasů - the first modern lager 15:02 - U Zlatého Tygra - famous patrons 16:18 - U Medvídků - beer hall, brewery, strongest beer in CZ 20:15 - U Tří růží - Dominicans to publicans 21:23 - U Vejvodů - underground but well-known 22:20 - U Glaubiců & U Krále Brabantského - two Malá Strana spots 24:56 - Na Slamníku - out of the city center 25:43 - Strahov & Břevnov Monasteries - what became of the monks? 27:57 - Which one is the oldest?
More Info on places in this episode
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| NOW - Prague: The Capitol of Crypto w/Maya Bersheva | 11 Mar 2021 | 00:29:31 | |
NOW - Prague: The Capitol of Crypto w/Maya Bersheva Guest: Maya Bersheva, community manager for the Czech Republic, Binance Just because Prague is more than 1000 years old doesn't mean it's behind the times. In fact, it's the most crypto-friendly city in the world. What does that mean? I certainly don't know. But my guest does! Maya Bersheva of Binance, the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the world, talks about what cryptocurrency and blockchain are, why Prague is one of the world hubs of this stuff, and why crypto is the future. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:33 - What the heck is crypto? 05:08 - Paralelní Polis & the Institute of Cryptoanarchy - crypto ATMS, the luckiest cup of coffee ever 07:42 - Prague is the #1 crypto city 10:20 - Digital nomadism 13:20 - A possible future for crypto 17:02 - Crypto use cases - Brave browser, we are all influencers, P2P, developing nations, mid-term investment 21:07 - How to crypto 24:51 - Get your crypto on - the world is digital 27:33 - Final Thoughts
Resources for this topic
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| THEN - Two of the Greats: Vaclav I & Ottokar II (1230-1278) | 25 Feb 2021 | 00:18:58 | |
THEN - Two of the Greats: Vaclav I & Ottokar II (1230-1278) Bohemia finally has permanent kings, and the next two rulers are ranked among the best all of time. Under Vaclav I and Ottokar II, Bohemia would reach the apex of its power and influence. At least, under the Přemyslids. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:30 - Vaclav I (1230-1253) - One-Eye, two Freds and several new towns (including Prague's Old Town) 04:04 - The Mongols come a-visiting 05:36 - Vaclav expanded Bohemia's influence, plus got Austria (finally) 08:15 - Ottokar II (1253-1278) - The Iron & Golden King didn't want to be in politics, but then he did 10:20 - The coast of Bohemia, the Hapsburgs make an appearance, Ottokar builds the Hofburg in Vienna 12:38 - Zaviš of the Vítkovci causes problems, so does HRE Rudolf, Ottokar picks a fight he can't win 14:51 - The Legacies of Vaclav I and Ottokar II
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| THERE - Jaq's Cool Critters - Cuddlin' in Kadlín | 11 Feb 2021 | 00:26:23 | |
THERE - Jaq's Cool Critters - Cuddlin' in Kadlín Guest: Jaq Beart, owner of Jaq's Cool Critters Animal Sanctuary in Kadlín *Apologies to Jaq and the gang at Cool Critters for totally stealing their tag line for the title of this episode! ** To see some of the dogs & cats mentioned here, check out our video version on YouTube Jaq wanted a summer home and ended up with a farm and a pet sanctuary. Located in the very small village of Kadlín, about 60km NE of Prague, Jaq and her team have created a unique locations for animals to get safe and healthy, and people to find a new best friend. Cool Critters is where the cool cats hang out. And dogs. Mainly dogs. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:49 - Pet sanctuary, not shelter 04:43 - How it works 06:33 - Hellboy & others 09:49 - Adopting a pet 11:15 - Virtual adoption 13:04 - Supply & demand, how to visit 16:50 - Donations & supporters, Click and Feed, GIVT, flea market 21:31 - Names & bittersweet sympathy 23:34 - Czechs love dogs 24:42 - Outro
Jaq's Cool Critters
Also mentioned and supporters of Cool Critters
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| FOLKS - Strong Sense of Place | 27 Jan 2022 | 00:43:22 | |
FOLKS - Strong Sense of Place Guests: Melissa Joulwan & David Humphreys, Strong Sense of Place podcast Books can entertain, inform and even make you want to travel. My guests today run the Strong Sense of Place podcast out of their flat here in Prague which combines the best of reading and travel in one jam-packed website. Go all over the world without ever leaving your home.
SECTIONS 01:49 - The Strong Sense of Place podcast 03:37 - The purpose of the podcast 06:50 - A world tour from home 11:10 - Nerdy organization & gold stars 14:55 - Becoming a reader 18:27 - Kindle a flame for reading 21:40 - Transcribing for empathy 28:22 - Lots of work 29:44 - Cookbooks & roller derby 34:24 - SSOP Reading Atlas. theme episodes, apocalypse novels 39:10 - Favourite books of 2021 40:51 - Telling lies to tell the truth
More info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| EATS - Follow Your Bagel Bliss w/Ezra's Bagels | 28 Jan 2021 | 00:40:32 | |
EATS - Follow Your Bagel Bliss w/Ezra's Bagels Guests: Chelsea London & Giuseppe Cantanzariti, Owners & Operators of Ezra's Bagels Recent additions to the city Chelsea & Giuseppe started making bagels to satisfy her pregnancy cravings, and a business was born. And so was their son, Ezra, so they named it after him. These New York-style bagels are the real thing - shiny, chewy, tangy, airy and delicious. They are also 100% vegan. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:43 - These are real deal 04:43 - Digital nomads find a home 07:38 - A non-traditional operation (it's Stephanie Cohen's fault) 12:40 - A bagel primer 16:41 - Trade secrets & regional variations 22:28 - Salt & coffee - adapting the menu 30:12 - Community while apart 37:42 - Wrap it up, I'll take it
Ezra's Bagels
Also mentioned
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| FOLKS - Living Free (in) Europe w/Grant Podelco | 14 Jan 2021 | 00:30:43 | |
FOLKS - Living Free (in) Europe w/Grant Podelco Guest: Grant Podelco, editor-in-chief of rferl.org (Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty), blogger, photographer, actor, etc. Grant's is a classic story - someone who came to Prague for one reason, and ended up staying for many reasons. We talk about the important work Radio Free Europe is still doing and some of Grant's many projects. He writes a blog on bicycling in Prague, another about the "good things in life", takes pictures and has even tread the boards on stage a few times now. For Grant, life in Prague is a movable feast, and he is having the time of his life. And Prague will always be a part of it. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:33 - Opportunity knocked 04:23 - Radio Free Europe then & now 10:23 - RFE by the numbers 11:56 - The stakes are still high 13:40 - Rex-patriate syndrome 17:31 - Blogs & pictures 20:55 - Shakespeare in India 23:45 - The future of the moveable feast - Prague & Ireland? 28:28 - Radio Love
Check out Grant's stuff:
See also:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| THEN - Long Live the King (Again) (1172-1230) | 31 Dec 2020 | 00:15:29 | |
THEN - Long Live the King (Again) (1172-1230) Yet more musical chairs around the throne of Bohemia, but it all comes out in the end as yet another king secures long term power. Third time's a charm! Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 00:53 - Vladislav II Abdicates Without Permission 01:19 - Frederick (Bedřich) Round One, then Oldřich, then Soběslav II Gets in Trouble 03:16 - Frederick (Bedřich) Round Two, Konrád (Otto) and Soběslav Scheme, Moravia Becomes a Margraviate, the Přemyslids Gear Up for a Family Civil War, the Third Crusade is Called and Frederick (Bedřich) Dies 06:44 - Konrád (Otto), Nobles Force the Statutes of Konrad, Konrád Dies of Plague in Naples 07:24 - Václav II Becomes Duke...for Three Months, Ottokar I Takes Control (Round One) 08:06 - Family Squabbles Continue, Jindřich Břetislav Goes for a Walk and Gets Kidnapped and then the HRE Makes Him Duke, then Falls Ill Preparing for the German Crusade, Ottokar Takes Control but the Nobles Elect his Brother Vladislav Jindřich Instead (Who Steps Down) 11:11 - Ottokar I Is Back in the Saddle, Becomes KING, Gets Permission to Divorce, the Fourth Crusade and Albigensian (Cathar) Crusades, Ottokar Secures Power with the Golden Bull of Sicily of 1212 (Same Year as the Children's Crusade) 13:40 - Fifth and Sixth Crusades, Bohemia Now Has Kings Forever and Quite a Bit of Status and Autonomy
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| HERE - Blood on the Snow: Czech Holiday Traditions w/Peter Collman | 17 Dec 2020 | 00:30:43 | |
HERE - Blood on the Snow: Czech Holiday Traditions w/Peter Collman Guest: Peter Collman, co-author of Curious Czech Christmas; podcaster for The Bohemican and History of Alchemy, YouTube channel Past Access What holiday has a wallet that smells like fish, hallucinations of magical pig, a mutant baby, chocking hazards, molten lead exploding in your face, telling the future with shoes and eviscerated fish all over the sidewalk? Why, Christmas in the Czech Republic, of course! Peter Collman, co-author of Curious Czech Christmas, gets into some of the details of the holiday season here in CZ. He also talks a bit about his podcast about being an American living in CZ called The Bohemican, his other podcast called History of Alchemy, and his YouTube channel about travelling the world as a wheelchair user called Past Access. NOTE: Xmas spoilers in this episode, so maybe little kids should not listen!! Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:42 - A Busy Guy - Two Podcasts, a YouTube channel & a Book 05:49 - The Golden Pig, Freakish Infants & Total Exhaustion 12:25 - Carp & Communism - Builds Your Character 19:52 - Predicting the Future (Pancake Batter, Hot Lead & Shoes) 23:08 - Short Nights, Excesses & Three Wise Men 26:44 - Hang in There, 2021! 28:18 - Wrapping Up & Shameless Cross Promotion
Check Out:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| THEN - CZ in the 90s: Privatization, Politics & Progress with Jonathan Stein | 03 Dec 2020 | 00:35:15 | |
THEN - CZ in the 90s: Privatization, Politics & Progress with Jonathan Stein Guest: Jonathan Stein, Managing Editor for Project Syndicate Jonathan Stein has seen many transitions - Czechoslovakia into the Czech Republic, working in academia then news, how the three phases of privatization worked in the 90s, the rise of Klaus and the technocrats, bureaucratic shenanigans and much more. We talk about these things, plus his news service, Project Syndicate. He also shares some pretty funny stories from the 90s. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:31 - Freelancing Through the 90s - Academia, Teaching & the Economist Intelligence Unit 05:00 - Project Syndicate in a Nutshell 12:22 - Small Scale Privatization Post Revolution 15:53 - Coupons, Property Restitution & Sociological Implications 23:17 - Banking on the Future & the Apotheosis of the Technocrat 29:33 - Old Habits Die Hard - Corruption, Taxis, Lunch Reservations & Magic Phones
Check Out:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| THEN - Back to Bohemia - The House of Přemyslid (870-999) | 01 Dec 2020 | 00:19:22 | |
THEN - Back to Bohemia - The House of Přemyslid (870-999) The Great Moravian Empire is over, but the fun is just beginning in Bohemia. The Přemyslids fend off external attacks and start internal squabbles, brother kills brother, Christianity makes inroads but not without resistance, one family rises while another falls, but (spoiler) it all finally comes together with one ruler for Bohemia. However, compared to what comes after all this, these are relatively peaceful times. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:28 - Themes of the Era 02:03 - Bořivoj I, First Duke of Bohemia 02:52 - Spytihněv I, the Royal Seat Moves to Prague and Prague Castle Gets Started 04:36 - Vratislav I and His Pretty Unfriendly Wife Drahomíra 05:43 - Václav I - Good (Duke) Wenceslas, 09:36 - Václav Becomes the Patron Saint of Bohemia 10:28 - Boleslav I the Cruel - Fratricide, Yet Not a Totally Bad Guy 13:17 - Boleslav II the Pious - Bohemia Gets a Bishop, the Slavník family Cause Trouble, the Great Slav Uprising, the Vršovci Help Wipe Out the Slavníks, Vyšehrad is Founded, Bohemia is Finally United Under a Single Ruler
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| EATS - Memories & Meals w/Lori Wyant & Dean Selby | 19 Nov 2020 | 00:37:20 | |
EATS - Memories & Meals with Lori Wyant & Dean Selby Guests: Lori Wyant & Dean Selby, Chef-Owners of The Tavern and U Kurelů Lori and Dean love Prague, and Prague loves them back. Consistently innovative, they have helped transform the food scene here over the past decade - sparking off the burger craze, kickstarting BBQ, helping usher in brunch and even trying out vegan comfort food. Yet their focus has always been on Prague, specifically Žižkov, where they both have lived for many years. It's even where they met and feel in love! Lori and Dean are staying true to both their old roots in the US and their new ones here in the heart of Europe. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:35 - Burger Beginnings - The Tavern 05:30 - Authentically American but Locally Focused 11:56 - Updating the Past - U Kurelů 17:25 - Thanksgiving's for Everyone 20:01 - Bringing the BBQ - Sticky D's & Friends 25:55 - Brunches & Memories of the Bluegrass State 29:00 - Adapting Thanksgiving & More During COVID 31:38 - Venturing into Vegan Comfort Food
Thanksgiving Options in Prague for 2020:
Check out Lori and Deans places: Things mentioned in this episode:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| NOW - #HelpYourHood w/Rob Cameron | 05 Nov 2020 | 00:36:22 | |
NOW - #HelpYourHood with Rob Cameron Guest: Rob Cameron, BBC Correspondent for CZ and Slovakia Fulfilling two lifelong dreams, Rob Cameron gets to live in Prague and work in news. His response to the COVID-19 pandemic was to create the #helpyourhood Facebook group for a few friends, but it has grown almost beyond his control into something like an informal news agency in its own right (thanks to a crack team of volunteers - see their names below). Rob talks about having goulash & beer in his veins, and how this country has handled the COVID pandemic, including some insight into why things went so well in the spring. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:17 - Czech at Heart 03:00 - Prague Chooses You 06:19 - Journalist at Heart 07:21 - This Stuff Affects Me 09:25 - A Frog Being Boiled - Change is Incremental 13:49 - #helpyourhood - a place of COVID-19 calm in the Facebook echo chamber & voluntary news agency 20:54 - The Infamous Dinner Party on the Charles Bridge 22:52 - The First Wave is Now, One Man Saved Us in the Spring, the State of the State Now 30:33 - Thoughts on the (Nearish) Future
SHOUT OUT to Rob's incredible collection of volunteers who continue to make #helpyourhood a place of reasons and good information:
Check out:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| HERE - 13 More Ghost Stories w/Raymond Johnston | 22 Oct 2020 | 00:42:54 | |
HERE - 13 More Ghost Stories with Raymond Johnston Guest: Raymond Johnston, Journalist and author of the Ghost Map Prague's one of the most haunted cities in Europe, so it was an easy task to find 13 scary stories for Halloween to amaze, delight and frighten you. Follow along using Raymond's interactive ghost map, or just settle back and listen to tales about ghosts, pirates, mermaids, water sprites, beheadings, barbers, a werewolf, a very slow zombie, a very shy vampire and more. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:51 - North to South 02:12 - The Ghoul of Stromovka (Holešovice) 04:17 - The Werewolf of the Stag Moat (below Prague Castle) 06:45 - The Invisible Nun (Malá Strana) 09:10 - Headless Laura (Malá Strana) 12:08 - Kabourek, the Water Sprite (Malá Strana) 15:02 - The Mad Barber of Karlova Street (Staré Město) 17:51 - The Headless Templar of Liliova Street (Staré Město) 21:08 - The Pirate Red Goat & Black Lilly (Petrská čtvrť) 23:54 - The Mermaid of V Tůních (Nové Město) 27:41 - The Devil Chef (Nové Město) 31:08 - The Well-Dressed Solider (Vyšehrad) 33:41 - Vampire Lick It Up Bloody Knee (Žižkov) 37:41 - The White Lady of Záběhlice Chateau (Záběhlice) 40:03 - Sources for Stories
Things mentioned in this episode:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| FOLKS - News, Nuance & the 90s w/Douglas Lytle | 08 Oct 2020 | 00:43:13 | |
FOLKS - News, Nuance & the 90s with Douglas Lytle Guest: Douglas Lytle, Editor for Bloomberg Intelligence, former editor/reporter at Dow Jones, former reporter at the Wall Street Journal, former editor at Prague Post, author of Pink Tanks and Velvet Hangovers: An American in Prague Douglas Lytle came to Prague in 1990 on something of a whim. The city and the country have since become a permanent part of his life. He talks about the news industry here, life in Prague in the 90s, Czech politics and culture, and more in this this part reminiscence, part analysis. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:48 - Early Days in the Early 90s - teaching, Prognosis, Alan Levy & Prague Post 05:00 - Prague Post Takes Off, Making Ends Meet, Pink Tanks and Velvet Hangovers: An American in Prague 08:37 - Finding the Story, the Left Bank of the 90s, Prague vs. Budapest 13:50 - Americans Colonize Prague, Doug Leaves & Returns, CZ in Transition - Economics & Politics 19:13 - Coming to Understand the Czechs (a bit), the Battle of White Mountain, Small Country Syndrome 25:07 - Jára Cimrman & Mythmaking, Prague Embraces Cosmopolitanism 29:20 - Prague Continues to Change 32:48 - The Czech News Scene Today 36:50 - The Czechs Are Pretty Lucky but a Reckoning with Communism Is a Good Idea 39:52 - Frank Zappa Gives Advice
Check out Doug's book See also
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| MISC - Money Matters | 13 Jan 2022 | 00:36:00 | |
MISC - Money Matters Money makes the world go round, but who and what is on our money? This episode looks at the figures and icons Czechs have decided are worthy of being immortalized on their currency, and by extension we'll learn a little about the story this country tells itself about itself.
SECTIONS 01:33 - To walk in money 02:20 - Current coins, the Czech Lion, the Crown of Wenceslaus 06:52 - Notes, some of the 100 greatest Czechs 07:08 - 100Kč - Charles IV 08:43 - 200Kč - Jan Amos Komenský 10:16 - 500Kč - Božena Němcová 12:36 - 1000Kč - František Palacký 15:42 - 2000Kč - Emmy Destinn (Ema Destinnová) 17:07 - 5000Kč - Tomáš Garrigue (T. G.) Masaryk 18:08 - Old 20Kč & 50Kč notes - Otakar I Přemysl & St. Agnes of Bohemia (Svatá Anežka Česká) 20:21 - Late Czechoslovak notes - Pavol Országh-Hviezdoslav, Komenský, Ľudovít Štúr. peasants, SNP partisans & Bedřich Smetana 25:24 - Earlier Czechoslovak notes - Jan Žižka, SNP & Russians, youths 26:38 - Post WWII currency, the Communist coat of arms, post-Velvet Revolution commemorative 10 Kč coins (TGM, Milan Rastislav Štefánik, Alois Rašín) 28:26 - What about the Euro? 33:35 - Foreign currency & ATMs
More info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| HERE - New Town, New Jerusalem w/Raymond Johnston | 24 Sep 2020 | 00:15:59 | |
HERE - New Town, New Jerusalem with Raymond Johnston Guest: Raymond Johnston, Journalist Prague's Nové Město (New Town) is only new in comparison to other parts of town. Founded by Emperor Charles IV in 1378, it was actually intended to be a substitute for Jerusalem - a place where the Second Coming could happen in comfort and style. Journalist Raymond Johnston talks about this as well as other interesting facts about New Town. We'll visit Karlovo náměstí, the holy relics that used to be there, Prague's mystical city plan, a pagan grove that's now a tram stop, a street that may be an accident and historical helmets, just to name a few items. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:49 - Charles IV's Plans for Prague's New Town as a Jerusalem Substitute, Karlovo náměstí as the Center, Home to a Lot of Holy Relics (including the Spear of Destiny) 06:33 - Prague's Mystical City Plan 09:31 - Former Pagan Sites Incorporated into New Town 11:01 - Nekázanka Street, Wenceslas Square, the Statue of Wenceslas
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| THEN - Duking It Out Among the Přemyslids (1061-1167) | 10 Sep 2020 | 00:22:02 | |
THEN - Duking It Out Among the Přemyslids (1061-1167) Přemyslid ambitions continue to make things interesting. Vratislav gets a lance, Soběslav gets to hold a cup, Crusades are joined and avoided, Vladislav goes on walkabout, the Gothic period starts and Prague gets a new bridge. And just when it looks like things are finally going to calm down, they don't. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 00:58 - Vratislav II - Help the Germans, Get a Golden Lance 02:00 - The First KING, Brother Troubles, the Vyšehrad Chapter, also Son Troubles 04:35 - Konrád I (Brněnský), Duke for Eight Whole Months 04:47 - Břetislav II - Out With the Old Ways, the First Crusade 05:49 - Bořivoj II, Round 1 - Ambitious Relatives & Problems from Abroad 07:25 - Svatopluk - Ganged Up On & the Vršovci Make Another Appearance 08:18 - Vladislav I, Round 1 - Cooperative Dukedom 09:22 - Bořivoj II, Round 2 - Maybe He Was Just a Jerk 10:28 - Vladislav I, Round 2 - Getting Stuff Done 11:40 - Soběslav I - Otto the Black Challenges, More German Trouble, Further Challenges & Intrigues 13:46 - Soběslav Hold the Cup, Germans Welcomed Back 15:27 - Vladislav II (One of Many Vladislavs), Vladislav II Takes a Trip, Crusades Aplenty 19:00 - Vladislav II & HRE Frederick Barbarossa Make a Deal, Duke Vladislav II Becomes the Second KING, the Judith Bridge Gets Started in Prague
Slip of the Tongue: At 13:42, I said Břetislav remained Duke, but I meant Soběslav. These darned names!
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| ARTS - Czech Cinema w/Ryan Keating (Lambert) | 27 Aug 2020 | 00:31:31 | |
ARTS - Czech Cinema w/Ryan Keating (Lambert) Guest: Film journalist Ryan Keating of the Movie Barf cinema blog Cinema is a big deal here in the Czech Republic - Czechs have been innovators in the field since the beginning, many films and TV shows are filmed here, and more and more independent cinema establishments are opening up around Prague. We talk about the Movie Barf blog, new places for film buffs, why Czech hate popcorn, subtitles vs dubbing, the Czechoslovak New Wave, the surreal animation of Jan Švankmajer, modern Czech movies and more. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:36 - What's with the Name(s)? 04:25 - Movie Barf - a Blog, a Brand, Movie Barf Mondays at Edison Filmhub 07:00 - New Film Spots in Town & the Kino Kavárna Makes a Comeback (Sort Of), the Popcorn Situation is Dire 09:17 - Subtitles vs Dubbing in CZ and Elsewhere 14:13 - Juxtareading - a Lazy Form of Dubbing 15:20 - Czech Cinema's Influence - the Czechoslovak New Wave, Jan Švankmajer, Karel Zeman 19:40 - Contemporary Mainstream Czech Films 24:08 - "The Painted Bird" 27:18 - More Risks, Please
Check out Movie Barf Places & People mentioned in this episode:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| TOUR - 10 More Old Town Tales | 06 Aug 2020 | 00:24:30 | |
TOUR - 10 More Old Town Tales The Old Town is full of interesting stories and history, and now's a great time to check it out. Here's a tour with more stories you may not know about true love, jealousy, modern beer, mockery, pride and much more. These stories and legends are always all around us, if we only know where to look. This tour can be combined with the previous TOUR episode into one long tour. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Venue, which is right near where the tour ends. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! TOUR 01:39 - Start intro, in front of the Estates Theatre. Info in previous TOUR episode. 02:24 - THE VEIL GIVEN TWICE FOR LOVE - Karolinum - Ovocný trh 3-5 04:44 - THE HOUSE OF THE BLACK MADONNA - Ovocný trh 19 06:59 - THE ROPEMAKER'S WIFE - Provaznická 3 10:24 - THE LITTLE BRIDGE - Můstek Metro Station 11:53 - THE CUBIST LAMPPOST - Jungmannovo náměstí 13:04 - U PINKASU - Jungmannovo náměstí 15/16 15:44 - THE FRANCISCAN GARDENS - entrances off Jungmannovo náměstí and Pasáž Světozor 16:50 - PALACE ADRIA - Jungmannova 31 18:24 - THE PETRIFIED BOY - Church of St. Martin-in-the-Wall, Martinská 8 21:05 - THE RING INSIDE THE FISH - V Kotcích
This episode sponsored by VENUE For a conversation with Venue co-owner Karina Korenblun, click here Places mentioned in this episode: For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| THEN - Sibling Rivalry on Steroids (999-1061) | 30 Jul 2020 | 00:13:57 | |
THEN - Sibling Rivalry on Steroids (999-1061) Now things REALLY heat up in Bohemia, with wars, rebellions, blindings, castrations, whole families getting wiped out and lots more fun. You'd think things would calm down after all that, but you'd be wrong. It's Game of Thrones without the dragons! Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 00:55 - Boleslav III the Red(head)/Blind 01:42 - Vladivoj, Puppet of Polish Bolesław the Brave and Alcoholic 02:02 - Boleslav III Returns, now Boleslav the Red, and then Blind (but this time, really) 03:08 - Bolesław the Brave (Boleslav Chrabrý of the Piast Dynasty) Becomes Boleslav IV 03:30 - Jaromír, Round One - Don't Trust Your Brother 04:53 - Oldřich, Round One - Don't Annoy the Emperor 06:14 - Jaromír, Round Two - Don't Trust Your Nephews 06:47 - Oldřich, Round Two - Don't Trust Anybody 07:37 - Břetislav I, the Bohemian Achilles - Changes the Rules of Succession, Which Cause More Trouble for Quite a While 10:41 - Spytihněv II - A Weird, Angry Guy
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| FOLKS - We Are All Locals with Karina Korenblum | 30 Jul 2020 | 00:22:58 | |
FOLKS - We Are All Locals w/Karina Korenblum Guest: Karina Korenblum, Co-Owner of Venue Cafe, Sales & Distribution Consultant for Grandview Castle Entertainment, and Sales & Acquisitions Consultant for Cercamon Karina Korenblum is a Colombian who came to Prague after living in Paris and Berlin. She has worked in the independent film industry and is co-owner of Venue, a concept cafe in the Old Town. We talk about life in Prague, and running a business in one of the most touristed places in Europe. We also talk about what, exactly, it means to be a local. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:17 - Culture Shock Upon Arrival - Brunch, the Czech Language and Independent Film 05:19 - A Cafe in the Center - Increasing Options and Defining "Good" Service 10:09 - It's Not All Tourist Traps 10:58 - The Karlovy Vary International Film Festival - Egalitarian Cultural Access 11:44 - Tradition Meets Modernity - A Woman in a Male-Dominated Business World 13:35 - The Paradoxes of Quarantine 16:20 - Are You a Local? 17:02 - Places Like Kasárna Karlín Point the Way to the Future 19:45 - Experience the City Differently (Zažít Město Jinak)
Check out Venue For two TOUR episodes looking at Old Town, sponsored by Venue, click here and here. See also
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| HERE - Ghosts in Prague w/Raymond Johnston | 16 Jul 2020 | 00:19:39 | |
HERE - Ghosts in Prague with Raymond Johnston Guest: Raymond Johnston, Journalist We talk about ghosts with a local expert on the subject, and it should be no surprise that a city that's over 1000 years old has quite a few of them. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:26 - Raymond's Ghost Map of Prague 02:58 - The Fiery Turkey of Kampa Island 04:33 - Mills on Kampa 05:31 - More Scary Animals, Including the Devil Rabbit of Bohnice 07:14 - Dead Dead Redemption - the Fiery Carriage, Native American, the Fiery Man of Na Poříčí 09:50 - The Woman with Two Husbands, a WWI ghost story 11:41 - The Gambling Grave Digger 13:35 - The Vampire Panic of the 18th Century 16:08 - The Portal to Another Dimension, the Veil is Thin Here, Prague is the Beating Heart of Europe
Things mentioned in this episode: For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| TOUR - 10 Old Town Tales | 16 Jul 2020 | 00:26:30 | |
TOUR - 10 Old Town Tales Host: Derek DeWitt Prague's Old Town is, well, old, and full of fascinating tales, legends and locations. We'll look at ten tales in the area that you may not know about. This is designed as a tour that you can take while walking the winding streets of Staré Město. If you are too far away, you could follow along using Google Maps street view or something similar, or just listen and imagine. You can also see a video with photos of each location on our YouTube channel. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! TOUR 01:51 - Start: In front of main library on Mariánské náměstí. Inside you can see the art installation Idiom by Slovak artist Matej Kren. 02:29 - THE IRON KNIGHT - Town Hall, corner with Platnéřská 04:40 - THE TEREZA FOUNTAIN, the richest statue in Prague - Mariánské náměstí, in the Linhartská-side wall of the Clam-Gallas Palace 06:28 - THE HOUSE OF THE GOLDEN WELL - Karlova 3, corner with Seminářská 10:08 - AT THE GOLDEN SNAKE - Liliová 17, corner with Karlova 11:14 - PALACE IN THE CELLAR - End of Řetězová 12:39 - THE HOUSE AT THE THREE SAVAGES - Řetězová 7 15:07 - AT THE THREE STANDARD BEARERS - Husova 12 17:10 - AT THE THREE WHITE ROSES - Malé náměstí 3 20:10 - AT THE TWO (GOLDEN) BEARS - Kožná 1 23:35 - THE ESTATES THEATRE (Stavovské divadlo) - Železná between Ovocný trh and Rytířská End
This episode sponsored by Venue For a conversation with Venue co-owner Karina Korenblum, click here
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| ARTS - Politics & Theatre with Nancy Bishop | 09 Jul 2020 | 00:30:23 | |
ARTS - Politics & Theatre with Nancy Bishop Guest: Nancy Bishop, CSA and Emmy-Nominated Casting Director. And also a Theatre Director. Theatre has always been an important part of Czech culture and national identity, often being used in subversive ways to undermine those who would dominate them. Nancy Bishop takes us all the way back to 1620 up though Havel and the Velvet Revolution, when Czech theatre has its ultimate triumph: a playwright becomes president! Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 02:12 - A Personal Connection and a Petition 04:11 - White Mountain and the Suppression of the Czech Language 06:53 - Czech Makes Inroads in the 18th Century, Count Nostitz and the Estates Theatre 09:26 - Czech and Irish Parallels, the 19th Century and the early Czech-Language Theatre 12:25 - The National Theatre - More Than a Building, Working Under the Radar, The Nazis Press German (Again) 14:25 - The Communists, the Counter-Charter and Theatre as Samizdat 16:47 - Theatre Under the Communists, and Havel's Take on Absurdism 23:46 - After the Prague Spring and Normalization 25:00 - The Velvet Revolution and Theatres as Places of Political Action
Slip of the Tongue: František Palacký did not, in fact, attend the grand opening of the National Theatre in 1881, as he had died in 1876. But he was involved with it until his death.
Make sure to check out Nancy's website, workshops, books and more: Other places mention in this episode: For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| THEN - The Great Moravian Empire (833-907) | 09 Jul 2020 | 00:25:48 | |
THEN - The Great Moravian Empire (833-907) Host: Derek DeWitt On slightly firmer footing facts-wise, we take a look at the Great Moravian Empire - where it was, what is was and, more importantly, who the major players were. But it was certainly not a time of calm and peace. When you are right in the middle of Europe, everyone wants a piece of your pie. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:13 - The Start of the GME, and Where the Heck Was It? 04:15 - Mojmir I (not a Přemyslid) 05:39 - Rastislav I, plus Cyril and Methodius 08:56 - Svatopluk I, then Slavomir, then Svatopluk Again, Help from Bohemia and the Peace of Forchheim 12:17 - The GME Expands, plus Latin Rite vs. Slavonic 14:01 - The Wilhelminer War, Svatopluk is "King of the Slavs" (kind of) and Gets Bohemia 18:51 - Who Are the Hungarians? 21:12 - Spytihněv I Takes Over in Bohemia 21:51 - Mojmir II Becomes Prince of Moravia, His Brother Svatopluk II Causes Trouble, Bohemia and the Sorbs Break Away 23:01 - The Hungarians Are Hungry...For Land 24:02 - The GME Ends and Zbohom Slovakia
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| GLUG - That’s the Spirit(s) | 30 Dec 2021 | 00:36:09 | |
GLUG - That's the Spirit(s) We've talked about the oldest pub in Prague, beer and wine - now it's time to dive in to the spirit world with a look at some of the liquors Czechs like to drink.
SECTIONS 01:22 - Al-kul & distillation, a very brief history of booze in Europe 03:42 - Slivovice - fruit brandies 07:41 - Becherovka - angry Christmas 11:32 - Fernet Stock - crushed bedbugs 16:24 - Tuzemák - cancer-causing fake rum 18:40 - Zelená - liquid toothpaste 21:49 - Absinthe - the green fairy 27:49 - Vaječný likér (Czech Nog) & Algerian Coffee 29:54 - Grog (tea & rum), Svařák (mulled wine), Punč (mulled wine & fruit juice), Medovina (mead) 31:56 - Houba (Coke & red wine), Cider 33:47 - Rum, whisky & more
More Info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| EATS - Smokin' with Silva Jackson | 09 Jul 2020 | 00:31:14 | |
EATS - Smokin' with Silva Jackson Guest: Silva Jackson, Executive Chef & Owner, Big Smokers Silva Jackson has had a long career in fine dining and then fell in love with American BBQ, especially the Texas style of smoking meat. She came back to Prague to bring some of what she'd learned to Czech palates and culinary contexts. It's sort of a fusion - let's call it Czexan. We talk about her career, her return, her philosophy and how's she's helping shape the future of the Prague food scene. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:50 - Chasing the American Dream - How She Got Started 04:58 - The Changing Face of Prague Food 10:05 - The Prague Food Scene Then and Now 12:36 - Big Smokers Starts Up 16:10 - Adapting American Dishes for Czechs 22:14 - The Perfect Bite 24:13 - Things Change 25:41 - Covid Quarantine Creates Challenges, and Community
Read more about Silva and Big Smokers at Expats.CZ. Big Smokers: Other places mentioned in this episode: For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| THEN - Murky Mythological Origins | 09 Jul 2020 | 00:31:46 | |
THEN - Murky Mythological Origins Trying to go all the way back to the beginning of Bohemia and Prague is difficult. The Dark Ages means we don't have great records. But we have some stories, and some facts, and some suppositions, and we can weave them together into a coherent narrative. In this episode, we look at the murky mythological beginnings of Prague and the Czech people, going all the way back as far as we can. Like what we do? Then buy us a beer or three via our Buy Me a Coffee page! SECTIONS 01:10 - Way, WAY Back: Stone Age, Celts, Germans and early Slavs, plus the Knights of Blaník Mountain and the Czech Atlantis 06:58 - Grandfather Czech and His Brother(s), plus the Avars 11:21 - Samo's Empire 13:24 - Krok the Judge 14:57 - Libuše and Přemysl 21:22 - Prague Begins, and News from Europe 22:13 - The Maidens' War 24:15 - The Seven Mythical Princes of Bohemia 24:56 - Nezamysl, Mnata, Vojen and Vnislav 26:03 - Křesomysl, plus Horymír and Šemík the Horse 27:33 - Neklan, plus the Lucko War and the Durynk Alder 29:38 - Hostivit, plus Bye Bye Avars
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| ARTS - Bear Educational Theatre | 16 Dec 2021 | 00:41:34 | |
ARTS - The Bear Educational Theatre Guest: David Fisher, artistic director & founder of the Bear Educational Theatre David Fisher has gone from being at the fringes of the theatrical to having his own theatre company - but he considers himself a teacher more than anything else. he talks about how the Bear came about, how it works, why it's different from "evening theatre", and how they are adapting and adjusting to an online world due to the pandemic.
SECTIONS 01:49 - Storytelling through teaching & theatre 05:36 - Early Prague Theatre: Misery Loves Company & Black Box 07:13 - The Bear begins 10:53 - The Bear hits the road, bare bones; the perfect English lesson 22:56 - Overlapping skill sets 28:22 - Drama Therapy & other variations 30:20 - Going online & interactive 38:56 - I don't really want actors
Lapsus Linguae: 2016 was the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death, not his birth. Related Info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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| NOW - proFem | 02 Dec 2021 | 00:50:36 | |
NOW - proFem Guest: Eva Michálková, project manager for proFem – centrum pro oběti domácího a sexuálního násilí, o.p.s. Like most European countries, the Czech Republic is pretty humanist. And yet, sexual harassment & violence continue to be problems, with more than 50% of Czech women reporting sexual harassment and/or violence. The organization proFem offers help in a number of ways, including a new infoline, counseling, and even legal help. We talk about the problem here in CZ, some historical context, the evils of Easter and how things are, hopefully, changing for the better.
SECTIONS 02:01 - What is proFem? 03:31 - Feminism in a Czech context 07:03 - Feminism under Communism 09:21 - Research into sexual harassment & violence in CZ 14:30 - The normalization of rape culture 18:53 - Context & history matter 21:13 - Harassment on public transportation, at work, at home 27:42 - Easter is problematic 33:45 - Trouble at home 39:31 - proFem's infoline & services 47:21 - Volunteer opportunities
More info:
Related info:
For events in Prague, go to the Facebook page The Prague Haps Follow us on social for extras: Other Podcasts by Derek DeWitt
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