Josh Staub has had quite a career. The renowned Disney animator and visual effects artist has worked on some of the biggest hits of the modern era, including Wreck-It Ralph, Tangled, and the iconic Frozen—which is more of a phenomenon than just a film. But despite the accolades, he was ready for a new challenge. A few years ago, he began developing a script for a new animated series—a project that would take him on an incredible and unexpected journey. New project sparks a deep connection with the Deaf community Staub began developing an idea for an animated series that would tackle big themes of family, empathy, and the ways we communicate with one another. There was just one complication: the animated family at the core of the series would include characters who are deaf. Staub knew that if he wanted to pursue this idea, called Small Talk, he couldn’t simply translate parts of his script into American Sign Language for the animation. As a hearing person, he needed to really learn much more about Deaf culture and the community behind it. He began learning ASL from a Deaf teacher, which he says is the absolute best way to learn. Staub took to the lessons immediately, writing in a LinkedIn post, “I began learning about Deaf culture and fell in love with the Deaf community, forging deep friendships.” The people he met as he forged friendships within the Deaf community became collaborators on the series, helping shape the animation, filmmaking, story, and art behind the show. But as Staub got further along on his journey, he began using ASL learning apps to supplement his in-person instruction. That’s when he saw another opportunity to take the world, characters, and message of Small Talk even further. An opportunity bigger than the series The Small Talk ASL app was born. “I want it to be very clear that learning from a Deaf ASL teacher is by far the best way to learn the language,” Staub told Upworthy. Apps are a useful supplement, but Staub found the existing ones had some frustrating limitations: most notably, they weren’t very engaging, typically featuring bland photos or short video loops of people signing with little expression. That’s where the lively design of one of Staub’s characters, Oscar, comes into play. In the app, Oscar isn’t your teacher—he’s your friend. Oscar is your new Deaf friend. Photo credit: Jubilee Studios “[The app] helps hearing and Deaf of all ages learn the rich and expressive ASL language in an innovative and engaging way like only animation can,” the Small Talk website states. Because Oscar is fully animated as he signs and fingerspells, users can rotate him to view his signs from different angles, making it easier to see how his hands and fingers move. They can also adjust the playback speed—slowing it down as they learn or speeding it up to test their fluency and handshape recognition. Crucially, they can experience Oscar’s larger-than-life facial expressions (unsurprisingly reminiscent of Disney and Pixar characters), which are an essential part of communication in ASL. “Facial expressions are supremely important with ASL and that is where the whole ‘character’ or ‘friend’ part comes in. Pre-recorded videos of teachers tend to be pretty stern,” Staub said. “Deaf folks in general are extremely outgoing and ‘animated’ when they communicate, so why not express that in the character?” But perhaps the most important thing about the app is that it doesn’t cost a penny. And it never will. “It’s completely free, and because there should never be an obstacle to learning ASL, we’re committed to keeping it that way, forever,” Staub said. It’s all backed by a world-class team of Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing animators, consultants, engineers, and producers. App doesn’t replace anyone or anything Staub doesn’t really view other ASL learning apps as competition. He sees Small Talk ASL as just another tool in the world—admittedly a pretty fun one—to help more people learn ASL and overcome barriers to human communication. “There are 48 million Deaf and hard-of-hearing people in America, yet the… community is, in many ways, an isolated community. There is a hidden barrier which impedes a hearing person and a deaf person from building deep relationships. ASL overcomes that barrier,” the website states. It adds that about 70% of parents of deaf children don’t learn ASL. Further research shows that parents are often discouraged from learning ASL because they’re told it will be difficult, and some are led to believe it will interfere with their child’s ability to learn spoken language—which isn’t true. An app like Small Talk ASL could help make it a little easier—and a little more fun—for anyone who wants to communicate with Deaf and hard-of-hearing people. Small Talk ASL is a fun tool to help more people communicate. Photo credit: Jubilee Studios Learning from an actual Deaf teacher is the best way to learn the language. Apps and videos can help. Small Talk ASL brings a special flavor to the table: a friendly character you’ll grow to love and free access forever. Anyone can download the app from the Apple App Store or the Microsoft Store right now. Instead of asking for payment, Staub asks just one thing: “For some of you, Oscar is your first Deaf friend. Don’t make him your last. Learn about Deaf culture. Seek opportunities to immerse yourself and communicate with the Deaf community. Make mistakes. Keep trying. The Deaf community is diverse and inviting and will embrace you as they have me. It might just change your life. It changed mine.” The post ‘Frozen’ animator launches an interactive ASL learning app and vows to keep it free forever appeared first on Upworthy.

Picture this: You’re halfway up a steep hiking trail. Your lungs are burning, your heart rate is climbing. Then rain suddenly pours from the sky, seeping through your “waterproof” jacket. Your buddies promised this would be a “fun” adventure, but now you’re questioning every decision that brought you there. In that moment, you’re undeniably miserable. Yet three days later, you’re showing everyone photos of the view, beaming, and looking forward to getting back out there to do it all again. If that sounds familiar, there’s a reason why: you’ve just experienced a psychological phenomenon known as “Type 2” fun. @destinationinspiration What’s your favorite “Type 2 Fun” story?? Some parts of travel are fun right away… Other parts SUCK, and become great stories later It’s important that you embrace when things go wrong while traveling Because that’s usually where the trip gets good #iceland #icelandroadtrip #icelandtravel #placestovisit #type2fun ♬ original sound – Garrett Sears Every activity falls into a type of fun First, let’s break down the differences. “Type 1” fun is pure, uncomplicated enjoyment in the moment. Think eating ice cream, watching a movie, or lounging on a beach. It’s casual, low-effort, and comes with an immediate reward. “Type 2” fun shifts the dynamic. It’s an activity that requires effort—and maybe even a little discomfort—in the moment. Think backpacking deep in the woods, downhill mountain biking, or learning a physically and mentally demanding new skill. Sure, you might feel a little miserable while you’re in the thick of it, but once you’ve accomplished it, the experience can feel downright glorious. @noodlesandblisters THIS WAS THE BEST DAY EVER!!! (looking back at it). #type2fun #hikingadventures #everest #ebc #threepassestrek #hiking #nepal ♬ origineel geluid – noodlesandblisters “Type 3” fun ups the ante. This is where legitimate danger comes into play, often in a formidable environment. Think BASE jumping, free solo climbing, or other extreme adventure activities. “Type 3” fun may pave the way to an adrenaline-junkie lifestyle—or help you discover exactly where you draw the line. It’s the kind of adventure that’s only “fun” to a select few. The ultimate life hack for mental resilience @jessonthewildway Type 2 fun = how do you like to suffer #type2fun #hiking #backpacking #whitewater #tiktokhatesme ♬ original sound – Niina Baum Pushing yourself to your physical or mental limits isn’t for everyone, but seeking out a little “Type 2” fun can be a game-changer for your mental well-being. According to psychologists like Jennifer L. Hughes, when we engage in activities that test our limits, we trigger a process known as “growth through struggle.”  It’s all about the satisfaction of crossing the finish line—whether that’s literally completing a marathon or figuratively making it through a terrifying public speaking engagement. Overcoming an obstacle triggers a unique blend of positive neurochemical rewards in the brain. As a result, you’re more resilient the next time you face manageable discomfort. You know your brain—and your body—can handle it because you’ve done it before. That confidence doesn’t stay confined to one challenge; it spills over into everyday life. The sense of accomplishment that follows a “Type 2” challenge lasts much longer than the fleeting satisfaction of passive “Type 1” relaxation. It offers a deeper sense of gratification because you’ve pushed through discomfort or fear. “Type 2” fun also breaks you out of your daily routine, giving you a broader perspective on yourself and the world. Rewriting your relationship with discomfort In a world often obsessed with instant gratification, struggling through an activity can feel counterintuitive. “Type 2” fun reframes that mindset. Discomfort isn’t always the enemy—it’s often the price of admission to genuine personal growth. The post Bored by the same activities? Try some ‘Type 2’ fun. The joy hits later, but lasts a lot longer. appeared first on Upworthy.

From the Dallas Morning News comes the story of a firefighter who went above and beyond the call of duty, even though he was off duty. Out in the family boat on the 4th of July, Jason Horne rescued 3 drowning children trapped under a pontoon boat on Alvarado Lake, in Midlothian. The paper referenced […] The post Off-duty North Texas Firefighter Saves 3 Children Trapped Under Boat on 4th of July appeared first on Good News Network.

“Assisted living doesn’t mean giving up the everyday pleasures that help us live life on our own terms.” This is the philosophy of 82-year-old Anita LeBrun, who recently fought—and won—a legislative battle allowing nursing homes and senior care facilities in Minnesota to serve alcohol. To be clear, no state outright bans nursing homes and assisted living facilities from serving alcohol. Rather, these facilities are generally treated as businesses rather than private homes under state liquor laws, making them subject to various liquor licensing requirements. A beloved tradition suddenly became off limits According to the BBC, LeBrun, who moved into the senior living community Amira Choice Champlin in Minnesota a couple of years ago, was unaware of the licensing requirement. She was understandably shocked to learn that because her new home didn’t have a liquor license, residents couldn’t be served alcoholic beverages. In fact, in April 2025, the facility received a warning from local officials after serving Champagne at an event celebrating its newly completed renovations. For LeBrun, the policy felt like a loss of both autonomy and comfort because 5 p.m. happy hours had long been a beloved family tradition. “Happy hour is our connection, laughter, sharing stories from our lives,” she said, according to CBS News. “It brings friends together and helps make everyday moments special.” Her personal complaint became a statewide push for change So LeBrun took the issue to lawmakers, arguing that people who live in assisted care shouldn’t “have fewer freedoms than anyone else.” After also testifying twice before the state legislature, she ultimately succeeded in her mission. Effective August 1, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and boarding care homes across the state will be allowed to serve alcohol to residents and their guests during organized social events without navigating traditional retail liquor licensing requirements. The facilities must, however, meet two conditions: serve alcohol free of charge and notify the state of their intent to serve it, while continuing to comply with Minnesota’s health and safety standards. The new law is aptly named the “Grandparents’ Happy Hour” law. Upon signing the bipartisan measure—during a ceremony at Amira Choice Champlin, no less—Gov. Tim Walz said: “Growing older shouldn’t mean giving up the traditions and freedoms you’ve enjoyed your whole life. This law cuts unnecessary red tape so senior living communities can spend less time worrying about paperwork and more time creating opportunities for residents to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, happy hours and everyday moments together.” The ability to choose matters at every stage of life No matter where you stand on the pros and cons of alcohol consumption, most people can agree that maintaining human connection is important at every stage of life. And, for many people, sharing a drink is one way to foster that connection. Whether or not to imbibe at home is also a choice adults are generally free to make. It’s easy to see how losing that choice because of bureaucratic red tape could feel dehumanizing. In other words, if this law helps seniors feel more at home in the place they live, then cheers to that. The post Grandma takes action to bring happy hour to her nursing home and wins appeared first on Upworthy.

When news reaches the public that a new species has been identified, the chances really are 9 times out of 10 that it’s some deep sea slug or a spider. From the Congo comes the story of the exception—a new species of colobus monkey has been identified, becoming just the 5th such occasion in 75 […] The post New Species of Monkey Found in DR Congo Shows How Much There’s Left to Discover appeared first on Good News Network.