Podcasts about academy sports

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin interviews Chris Maguire about his professional journey and what led him to focus on the intersection of legal, compliance, and innovation. This leads to a discussion about AI and predictive analytics. Chris shares examples of General Counsel and compliance offices using AI to improve risk forecasting and decision-making. Chris comments on the expanding role of Compliance in the General Counsel's office.   Listen to Chris's take on the importance of values. He shares some of the core values of Thomson Reuters.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:17] About this episode of RIMScast. We will talk about how technology is driving innovation in compliance, risk, and the legal profession, with Chris Maguire of Thomson Reuters. [:41] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! The next RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep will be presented in conjunction with AFERM and led by instructor Joseph Mayo. This is a two-day course, June 2nd and 3rd. Register by May 26th. [1:02] The next RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Workshop will be presented in conjunction with NAIT on June 10th and 11th. Register by June 9th. That course will be led by former RIMS President, Nowell Seaman. [1:20] Links to these courses can be found on the Certification Page of RIMS.org and through this episode's show notes. [1:27] Virtual Workshops! On June 12th, Pat Saporito will host “Managing Data for ERM”, and she will return on June 26th to present the very popular new course, “Generative AI for Risk Management”. [1:45] A link to the full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's show notes. [1:56] We are already making preparations for the RIMS ERM Conference 2025 on November 17th and 18th in Seattle, Washington. RIMS is accepting educational session submissions through May 20th. [2:14] The best submissions will address current and future challenges facing ERM practitioners as well as provide leading practices and concrete takeaways for a diverse audience of risk professionals from industries or organizations of varied sizes, disciplines, functions, and roles. [2:30] These include officers, leaders, managers, and students. The link to the submission form is in this episode's show notes. If you are listening on the day of this episode's release, this is the last call for submissions, so get them in! [2:46] Let's get on with the show! How is your organization navigating regulatory uncertainty in 2025? Are you leveraging advancements in technology to help achieve your goals? Our guest this week is Chris Maguire, the General Manager for Corporates Risk at Thomson Reuters. [3:06] We are going to talk about how technology is driving innovation in compliance, risk, and legal. We will talk about how AI and predictive analytics are reshaping corporate legal and compliance functions, and more. Let's get to it! [3:22] Interview! Chris Maguire, welcome to RIMScast! [3:29] Chris Maguire started in a Big Four firm in the '90s, in the auto practice. It was a great way to learn business and how they worked, focusing on understanding financial controls and risk, and how to make sure that companies were behaving correctly. [3:59] After an MBA, Chris started working for Thomson Reuters. He has been with them for about 20 years in the legal tech space. He started on the strategy side and transitioned after several years to driving the commercial teams in the risk business. [4:24] Now, Chris has the role of looking at product and industry strategy for corporations. Thomson Reuters is at the intersection of legal, risk, and compliance, and how they affect enterprises. [5:07] Chris says that 20 years ago, AI was not a fast-moving industry. There have been dramatic changes in the last few years. AI adoption by Thomson Reuters customers has doubled in the last year. Generative AI has been seen in a wide range of tasks. It started with drafting NDAs. [5:38] Salespeople are always asking for NDAs and how they can be drafted more quickly and easily. Now AI conducts legal research or helps draft a research memo or a complaint from a particular point of view. We're seeing it in drafting HR employment policies and rote tasks. [6:21] Chris explains the use of AI prompts tied to data sources, such as your data, data from Thomson Reuters, or other data providers. Chris is also seeing big data AI used a lot in analyzing outside spending and looking for cost savings. [7:14] Chris tells how AI helps in decision-making, using the example of knowing the vendors you choose for your supply chain and knowing your customers. AI can weed through all the news out there to make sure you're not dealing with a sanctioned entity. [8:22] AI can help with reputation risk. Is there forced labor in your supply chain? That matters to your reputation. It's not just whether a country is sanctioned, but what the individual entities in your supply chain are doing. There's a lot of focus on reputation today. [9:10] Justin recently had the Chief Impact Officer of EcoVadis on RIMScast Episode 329. They talked about forced labor and human trafficking in the supply chain. Use AI to help identify where forced labor and human trafficking are big risks, avoid them, and report them. [9:35] This is important on the corporate side and the government side of the business. Chris says it will be interesting to see the effect of tariffs. Thomson Reuters has updated about 50 million changes to its global trade products so far this year, compared to 100 million in 2024. [10:16] Plug Time! RIMS Webinars! We are back on May 22nd, with GRC, a TÜV SÜD Company, and their newest session, “Asset Valuations in 2025: Managing Tariffs, Inflation, and Rising Insurance Scrutiny”. [10:33] On June 5th, Zywave joins us to discuss “Today's Escalating Risk Trajectory: What's the Cause and What's the Solution?”. [10:413] On June 17th, Origami Risk returns to present “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction”. [10:54] More webinars will be announced soon and added to the RIMS.org/Webinars page. Go there to register. Registration is complimentary for RIMS members. [11:05] Spencer Educational Foundation's Grants program is starting soon. Spencer's goal to help build a talent pipeline of risk management and insurance professionals is achieved, in part, by its collaboration with risk management and insurance educators across the U.S. and Canada. [11:23] Since 2010, Spencer has awarded over $3.3 million in General Grants to support over 130 student-centered experiential learning initiatives at universities and RMI non-profits. Spencer's 2026 application process is now open through July 30th, 2025. [11:43] General Grant awardees are typically notified at the end of October. Learn more about Spencer's General Grants through the Programs tab of SpencerEd.org. [11:54] Back to the Conclusion of my Interview with Chris Maguire of Thomson Reuters!  [12:27] Chris refers to RIMScast Episode 335 with Jeff from Academy Sports. Jeff talked about how the Compliance function now sits in the General Counsel's office. At Thomson Reuters, more of the Compliance group has moved into the General Counsel's office in the last year. [12:48] The General Counsels are being charged with understanding the full weight of risk across an organization, from reputational risk to who you should or should not do business with. [13:16] The Sales organization at Thomson Reuters has discussed that a lot with the GC office, from a reputation, sanctions, and everything perspective. A lot of GC offices now include the Compliance role. [13:50] Chris's ERM philosophy is Trust. Companies need to trust who they are doing business with. Companies need to trust that their employees have what they need to make decisions not to deal with a risky customer, but to follow the laws and rules of global companies. It's trust. [14:29] There is so much change going on. Chris talks about values that resonate. One Thomson Reuters value is Act Fast, Learn Fast. You have to move and learn. Companies can help you, but it is on individuals to take the responsibility to act fast and learn fast about what is changing. [14:59] Thomson Reuters is bound by the Trust Principles. It started with Reuters in the 1940s around WWII, but it goes back to its 150 years of legal content. [15:17] The information Thomson Reuters provides its customers has to be free from bias. It has to be right. It has to be updated. It can't be an opinion about a philosophy. It has to be fact-based. It has to provide customers with the information they need to get work done. [15:36] Applying AI on top of trusted, unbiased, correct, up-to-date information is going to be vital, moving forward. Act fast, learn fast, and trust. [15:57] Chris believes the legal industry hasn't always been the fastest-moving industry. The technology is now there to allow us to move more quickly and learn more quickly. That's an exciting thing! [16:23] Chris says AI is no longer a future concept. It's here. It's transforming our lives; it's starting to transform our business environment. If you don't adapt quickly, you're going to be at a significant disadvantage. [16:36] For people in General Counsel's offices, people in compliance functions, the value is your expertise, your knowledge, and you as a human, and what you can bring to the situation. [16:48] If AI can help you get there, and give you a platform on which to add your judgment and expertise, knowledge, and professional opinion, that's a hugely valuable thing. [17:01] Thomson Reuters doesn't see AI taking away jobs. We see people who use AI, potentially taking away the jobs of people who don't use AI. It all comes back to the humans and how they use it. There's never been a time when Thomson Reuter's expertise has been more important. [17:34] Chris, it has been such a pleasure to have you here on RIMScast! I do appreciate that you listened to some previous episodes! Get my unique download count up there! [I7:50] I appreciate that we're reaching a very important segment of our audience and our RIMS membership. I think they're going to learn a lot in this episode. Thank you! [18:02] Special thanks to Chris Maguire for joining us here on RIMScast. Links to RIMS coverage about AI, legal, and compliance risks are in this episode's show notes.  [18:13] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [18:41] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [19:00] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [19:18 ] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [19:34] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [19:48] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [19:55] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: RIMS Texas Regional 2025 — August 3‒5 | Advance registration rates now open. ERM Conference 2025 — Call for Submissions (Through May 20) RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Risk Management magazine “Balancing Innovation and Compliance When Implementing AI” — Risk Management magazine, April 2025 RIMS Now The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Deadline July 30, 2025 2025 Coast-To-Coast Risk Management Challenge — Applications Open Through May 23 RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Asset Valuations in 2025: Managing Tariffs, Inflation, and Rising Insurance Scrutiny” | Sponsored by GRC, a TÜV SÜD Company | May 22, 2025 “Today's Escalating Risk Trajectory: What's the Cause & What's the Solution?” | Sponsored by Zywave | June 5, 2025 “Strategic Risk Financing in an Unstable Economy: Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reduction” | Sponsored by Origami Risk | June 17, 2025   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep with AFERM — June 2‒3, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and AFERM RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Virtual Workshop — June 10‒11, 2025 | Presented by RIMS and NAIT Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule “Managing Data for ERM” | June 12 | Instructor: Pat Saporito “Generative AI for Risk Management” | June 26 | Instructor: Pat Saporito See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “(Re)Humanizing Leadership in Risk Management with Holly Ransom” “AI and Regulatory Risk Trends with Caroline Shleifer”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience” | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) “Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs” | Sponsored by Zurich “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Chris Maguire, General Manager, Corporates Risk at Thomson Reuters   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

If it's happening in CRE in Ohio, Tori Nook is all over it. But her journey to starting her brokerage, Anchor Retail, was definitely unexpected. In this episode of Retail Retold, Chris Ressa and Tori talk about the current state of the retail landscape and the unique characteristics of the Ohio market, where DLC now has four open-air shopping centers. She highlights the challenges and opportunities in retail real estate, including the impact of construction delays and the emergence of new retail concepts. Tori also shares insights on her recent work with Academy Sports and the evolving dynamics of tenant representation.TakeawaysTori Nook has been in the retail real estate business since 1999.Anchor Retail specializes in retail brokerage and property management.The journey to starting Anchor Retail was unexpected and driven by circumstances.Tori emphasizes the importance of having a good team to manage operations.The retail landscape has changed significantly since 2021, with fewer new constructions.Ohio is a strong market for retail due to its spending power and demographics.Retailers often enter Ohio through the three C's: Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati.Academy Sports is a significant new tenant in Ohio, marking a fresh entry since 2012.The deal-making process has become longer and more complex due to various factors.AI may play a role in streamlining the waiver process in real estate.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tori Nook and Anchor Retail02:00 The Journey of Starting Anchor Retail06:40 Balancing Business Management and Deal-Making08:54 Current Trends in Retail Real Estate11:52 Ohio as a Retail Market17:11 Exciting New Retail Developments in Ohio

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin and his guest, Jeff Strege, Senior Director for Risk Management at Academy Sports + Outdoors, explore what led Jeff to risk management, and the path that led to Academy Sports + Outdoors within the sporting goods and outdoor retail space. Jeff comments on his work building out the ERM framework at Academy to improve claims management, employee safety, and liability prevention. Jeff shares his approach to workers' compensation and Academy Sports + Outdoors's goal to help the workers recover and return to work. In addition to career insights, they discuss Jeff's upcoming panel participation in HUB's webinar on April 17th, “From Defense to Prevention: Strengthening Your Liability Risk Management Approach,” covering topics such as third-party litigation funding and its impact on the industry.   Listen to Jeff's wisdom, born from experience, on managing your risk career. Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:14] Registration is open for RISKWORLD 2025. Engage Today and Embrace Tomorrow with RIMS, from May 4th through May 7th in Chicago, Illinois. Register at RIMS.org/RISKWORLD. [:25] After you register, visit your App Store, search for RIMS Events, and download the RIMS Events App. Select RISKWORLD 2025, load the show onto your phone, and start building your RISKWORLD itinerary! [:41] About this episode of RIMScast. Our guest is former RIMS Houston Chapter President, Jeff Strege. We will talk about his career and how ERM continues to play a pivotal role today. [1:08] RIMS-CRMP Workshops! As part of RIMS's continuing strategic partnership with Purima, we have a two-day course coming up on April 22nd and 23rd. Links to these courses can be found through the Certification page of RIMS.org and this episode's show notes. [1:28] Virtual Workshops! On June 12th, Pat Saporito will host “Managing Data for ERM” and will return on June 26th to present the very popular new course, “Generative AI for Risk Management”. [1:45] A link to the full schedule of virtual workshops can be found on the RIMS.org/education and RIMS.org/education/online-learning pages. A link is also in this episode's show notes. [1:56] RISKWORLD registration is open. Engage Today and Embrace Tomorrow, from May 4th through 7th in Chicago. Register at RIMS.org/RISKWORLD. Also, remember that there will be lots of pre-conference workshops being held in Chicago just ahead of RISKWORLD. [2:14] These courses include “Applying and Integrating ERM,” “Captives as an Alternate Risk Financing Technique,” “Contractual Risk Transfer,” “Fundamentals of Insurance,” “Fundamentals of Risk Management,” RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep, and more! The links are in the show notes. [2:33] The Spencer Educational Foundation is having a Flash Sale for sponsorships at RISKWORLD! Sponsorship pricing has been reduced for the Spencer-CNA Pickleball Social on Saturday, May 3rd, and the Spencer-Gallagher Golf Tournament on Sunday, May 4th. [2:51] Sponsorships are still available for the Spencer-Sedgwick 5K Fun Run on Tuesday, May 6th. Visit Spencered.org/riskworld2025 to learn about these opportunities and more. Also, reach out to Spencer's Executive Director Megan Miller at MMiller@Spencered.org. [3:13] Our guest today is Jeff Strege. He is the Senior Director for Risk Management at Academy Sports + Outdoors. Academy is one of the U.S.'s largest sporting goods and outdoor stores with 301 locations across 21 states, as of March 2025. [3:33] Jeff is also a long-time RIMS member. He's the former president of the RIMS Houston Chapter and is a RIMS-CRMP holder. [3:41] In addition to his outstanding resume, Jeff will be lending his insight to the RIMS Webinar on April 17th, presented by HUB in their Ready for Tomorrow series. It's called “From Defense to Prevention: Strengthening Your Liability Risk Management Approach.” A link is in the notes. [4:01] In today's RIMScast interview, we will discuss how ERM has played a role in his career and how he manages risk in so many locations at the Academy. We will get a preview of his upcoming appearance on the Hub webinar and his thoughts on third-party litigation funding and its impact. [4:27] Interview! Jeff Strege, welcome to RIMScast! [4:45] As a Houstonian, Jeff grew up with Academy Sports + Outdoors. He's a long-term customer. In September 2020, Jeff promoted himself from customer to team member, although he still is an avid customer of Academy. [5:07] As the Academy brand is so well-known and beloved in Texas, Jeff has had the Risk Director role on his radar for many years. He had told his wife many times that if that role ever opened up at Academy, he would want to talk to them. In mid-2020, it did, and here he is! [5:29] Academy has 301 stores across 21 states as of March 7, 2025, and is headquartered in Katy, Texas, a Western suburb of Houston. Jeff graduated from Katy High School. [6:23] Academy Sports + Outdoors sells fun. They say “Have fun out there.” The items Academy sells are intended to help people be outdoors and active. Academy does a lot of work around product safety with manufacturers and suppliers, making sure they're sourcing safe products. [6:45] Academy Sports + Outdoors sells firearms and ammunition. Its goal is to be the most responsible retailer of those items in the country. [7:13] Academy Sports is responsible for following the laws of 21 states. Jeff has worked for national, multi-national, and global organizations, so he has worked with similar requirements. [7:48] Jeff worked for Sysco twice, first in the 90s and then in 2016 in a risk role similar to his current role at Academy Sports. Sysco went on a growth initiative while Jeff was there the second time and it was fun to be part of that but he couldn't pass up the opening at Academy. [8:23] Academy Sports + Outdoors has a risk department of 10 who report to Jeff. Jeff oversees the Enterprise Risk Management framework, the Insurance and Data Analytic functions, the Safety functions, and the Claim Management functions. [8:50] Jeff has three direct reports and they have functional contributors who are assigned to and report to them. Jeff's management style is to find the best possible people he can find. He's not a micro-manager. All of his staff are solid professionals who are good at what they do. [9:14] That allows Jeff to focus on strategy and executing strategic objectives while the staff keeps things working from day to day. Jeff reports to the General Counsel. In other companies, Jeff has reported to the General Counsel, HR, Treasury, or Finance. [9:42] Risk can logically report up a variety of chains to the leadership of an organization, as it touches so many aspects of the business. [10:22] Relative to firearms sales, Academy Sports has a compliance team to manage the process. They do an outstanding job. [10:39] When Jeff arrived at Academy Sports, one of his charges was to mature the ERM framework across the various organizational functions. Having the opportunity to work on that made Jeff a student of the business, which is one of the Academy's values. [11:09] Coming into the business, Jeff was fortunate to receive a safety culture already well-entrenched in the distribution centers. That team has been retooled over the years and continues to evolve as it trains and supports the operators in safe practices in their work. [11:45] Academy workers' compensation goal is to help team members recover so they can come back to work. They take a deliberate approach to working with them so they get the treatment they need, their benefits are paid timely, and their questions are answered. [12:11] Academy made a TPA change a couple of years ago that's given them more proactive tools. Both safety and claims are processes that Academy Sports continues to fine-tune. [12:25] The foundational strategy is “safety first.” If you're talking about managing claims but not about safety, there's a miss there, in terms of managing risk. [13:01] Plug Time! During this interview, we discuss the RIMS Texas Regional Conference 2025, held from August 4th through the 6th in San Antonio, Texas, at the Henry  B. Gonzalez Convention Center. That's where we held RISKWORLD 2018. [13:22] The day of this episode's release, April 15th, is the day registration opens for the RIMS Texas Regional Conference. You can get the Advance Rate from now through May 16th, 2025. A link is in this episode's show notes. You can also visit the events page of RIMS.org to register. [13:43] If you will be in the Dallas/Fort Worth area on April 17th, be sure to stop by Lonestar Park for DFW RIMS's 7th Annual Night at the Races. It will be a blast! Guest, Member, and Student tickets are available. Visit DFWRIMS.org and the link in this episode's show notes. [14:12] Let's Return to My Interview with Former RIMS Houston Chapter President Jeff Strege! [14:32] Jeff arrived at Academy Sports on Monday, September 28, 2020, and the company executed its Initial Public Offering on Friday, October 2nd, 2020. In preparing for the IPO, the company had built an ERM framework that helped inform the prospectus for investors. [14:59] When Jeff joined, he was charged with taking the framework foundation and building upon it to round out how Academy Sports views risk, scopes it, and manages it across the organization. It was a fascinating process. [15:21] He's gotten to know many good, smart people who are driving aspects of the business. [15:28] Every year, Academy Sports looks at ways to enhance the framework, to make sure it's as meaningful and informative to the leadership team and board as it can be. [15:54] The framework looks at ISO standards but most of it is inward-focused within the business of Academy Sports. What's going on in the world? How do we prevent or prepare for it? Should something occur, what strategies do we have to respond, react to, and recover from it? [16:39] Before the recent tariffs were passed, the risk team had discussed tariffs generically. Tariffs appear as subsidiary risks in a few places within the framework. Nobody in an organization can control what government leaders do. [17:22] In a way, sporting goods is a seasonal industry. Academy Sports + Outdoors sells a variety of different things and operates in a variety of climates. There's a holiday season and there are gift-giving holidays. The seasons for outdoor activities differ depending on location. [17:54] In Texas, Jeff grills and fishes year-round. It's different in a Northern climate with four distinct seasons. Hunting seasons are specifically defined. The things Academy Sports sells peak at different times of the year and the peaks sort of offset themselves. [18:25] The Academy Sports merchandising teams are diligent and deliberate in how they plan for cycling products for the seasons. [18:44] Holiday is the big season. In that, Academy Sports is like other retailers. Back-to-school time is also important. [18:57] The backyard grilling is Jeff's favorite section of the store. When he goes into the store with his wife he has to look at some grills. Jeff also works out and runs so there are several aspects of the store that he shops. [19:16] Academy sells location-specific licensed apparel. In Academy Sports + Outdoors in Houston, there is gear for the Astros, Texans, and Rockets. [19:49] From the standpoint of team member safety, Jeff refers to OSHA. Also, some states have more stringent safety requirements. Jeff's safety team drives consistency of practices and training across the footprint of the 21 states where Academy Sports + Outdoors operates. [20:36] Most of Jeff's work is done in Houston but his team gets out in the field periodically on a schedule. Jeff likes to go into the stores and distribution centers. That's where the business occurs. The work at Corporate supports the people who serve and interact with customers. [21:10] RIMS Webinars! Following the success of their recent webinar, HUB International returns for the next installment of their Ready for Tomorrow Series, “From Defense to Prevention: Strengthening Your Liability Risk Management Approach”. That session will be on April 17th. [21:29] Today's guest, Jeff Strege, is a panelist in that session! He's going to talk about it a little bit right after the break. [21:38] On April 24th, RiskConnect returns to deliver “Better Together: The Marriage of Insurable Risk and Business Continuity”. [21:45] Zurich's webinar, “Understanding Third Party Litigation Funding” was rescheduled to May 1st at 1:00 p.m. Eastern. If you were already registered for the original date, you are now registered for the May 1st session with Zurich. [22:09] On May 22nd, GRC, a TÜV SÜD Company, presents their newest session, “Asset Valuations in 2025: Managing Tariffs, Inflation, and Rising Insurance Scrutiny”. [22:22] More webinars will be announced soon and added to the RIMS.org/webinars page. Go there to register. Registration is complimentary for RIMS members. [22:33] Let's Return to my Interview with Jeff Strege! [22:46] Jeff will be joining RIMS on the HUB webinar about third-party litigation funding (TPLF) on April 17th, two days after the airing of this episode. Third-party litigation funding is a major issue for RIMS and the profession. [23:08] Academy Sports + Outdoors sees TPLF from time to time in litigated matters, but not often. The HUB webinar is largely focused on rising litigation costs and the rising value of litigated matters. Third-party funding is a driving force of that rise. [23:35] When there's a funding mechanism behind the damages claim by a plaintiff, there are interest obligations with that mechanism, which can be stiff. It does inflate the value of some matters. [24:13] Once Academy Sports + Outdoors learns third-party funding is present in a litigated matter, that's in the front of mind as they evaluate and proceed with trying to conclude the case. [24:32] In the HUB webinar on April 17th, Jeff will be discussing the client's experience, not only with TPFL but also around social engineering. There is a good panel put together for this discussion with varied perspectives that will offer a well-rounded conversation. [24:55] Panelist Bob Tyson of Tyson & Mendes, a defense lawyer in California, has creative approaches to managing and negotiating litigated cases. Panelist John Ferguson, Head of Excess Casualty at Zurich Insurance, brings an insurer's perspective to the webinar. [25:29] Panelist Carol Murphy of HUB is one of the best brokers Jeff has worked with. Jeff is looking forward to sharing the stage with this group, talking about managing claims litigation, prevention, and pre-litigation management. Safety is critical. Jeff will bring that up. [26:02] The link to the webinar is in the show notes. Register today! Registration is complimentary for RIMS members! You'll hear this webinar live with Jeff Strege of Academy Sports, Fred Ferguson of Zurich, Bob Tyson of Tyson & Mendes, and Carol Murphy of HUB. [26:34] Jeff has been involved with RIMS since the mid-1990s when he was with Sysco Foods for the first time and was elevated to the risk management role there. Starting with Houston, Jeff has been involved in various chapters in various capacities. [27:07] RIMS has been an important part of Jeff's career. He's gained solid relationships through RIMS that have yielded business relationships and relationships where he's been able to help others and be helped by them. RIMS will be very important to him as long as he works in risk. [27:51] Jeff was President of RIMS Houston for two years, until January of 2024. He serves on the board as Past President. [28:12] Having moved around the country and having held different roles, Jeff has met risk professionals from many areas. He says RIMS has high-quality chapters all over the country. The four Texas RIMS chapters have a lot of positive energy. [28:47] The chapters are working together with Justin's team in New York to host the first-ever Texas RIMS Regional Conference this August. Jeff is on the planning committee and he's excited about it. [29:04] The RIMS Texas Regional Conference will be held from August 4th through the 6th at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, on the River Walk, the site of RISKWORLD 2018. San Antonio is Jeff's favorite city in Texas. It's a wonderful host city. [29:30] There is a link in the show notes to the RIMS Texas Regional Conference 2025. Registration will open the week of the airing of this episode! [29:49] Jeff is a RIMS-CRMP holder. He earned that certification in November of 2019. He was excited to see RIMS introduce the certification. What he likes about CRMP is its governance focus. [30:23] Jeff had been doing risk management for a long time. The CRMP website has good sample test questions on it. He decided to work through the test questions several times. Then went and took the exam and scored pretty well, largely based on his experience. [30:48] Jeff says his ERM work over the years was helpful. The RIMS-CRMP is a good designation. Jeff appreciates that RIMS gives CRMP holders opportunities to network. He will continue to carry the designation as long as he is working. [31:09] Mos recertification points are CE-related. Jeff relies heavily on the Houston chapter's offerings and the sessions and seminars at RIMS functions. He appreciates the flexibility in terms of what qualifies, such as participation in broker-sponsored industry education. [31:50] Developing and delivering educational content is a favorite of Jeff's. He has served as Risk Manager in Residence (now Risk Manager on Campus). Jeff tells every risk manager it's amazing and they need to do it at least once. Jeff enjoys education and is always learning. [32:24] Jeff shares his advice for risk professionals. As Boomers in the industry start to retire, it's important to help the industry recruit, train, and young talent. It's a passion of Jeff's. [32:52] There are a few things Jeff would tell young professionals. One is you are the CEO of your career. Your career is your responsibility. Don't wait for a leader to bring opportunities or promotions to you. Be a student of your craft and trade. Set goals with plans to achieve them. [33:20] Jeff has managed his career that way by making strategic moves when it made sense for him to do so. He has no regrets. You're the CEO of your career, all in. Don't wait for others to act on your behalf. Whatever it is, be a student of your craft and seek opportunities to learn. [33:45] Grow your knowledge base, your experience, and your network. Jeff has benefited from RIMS in having a network of people who lean on each other and learn from each other. It's a wonderful thing! [33:58] Be a student of your business, wherever it is. Make connections within it. Seek out mentorships to learn on a broad basis what the business does and what its objectives are. You position yourself more visibly to add more value and to grow. [34:29] Jeff Strege, you have been such an inspiration today. I appreciate you so much for joining us here on RIMScast and being so giving with your time and wisdom! I look forward to seeing you at the first-ever Texas Regional 2025, August 4th through 6th in San Antonio! [34:48] Special thanks again to Jeff Strege for joining us here today on RIMScast! I look forward to seeing him at many RIMS events, including the first-ever RIMS Texas Regional Conference 2025, which will be held from August 4th through the 6th in San Antonio, Texas. [35:05] Register today through the link in this episode's show notes. [35:12] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [35:37] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [35:56] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [36:13] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [36:29] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [36:43] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [36:50] Thank you all for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Links: RISKWORLD 2025 — May 4‒7 | Register today! Download the RIMS Events app! Spencer's RISKWORLD Events — Register or Sponsor! RIMS Texas Regional 2025 – August 3‒5 | Advance registration rates are now open. DFW RIMS - 7th Annual Night at the Races / Lone Star Park – April 17, 2025 RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Risk Management magazine RIMS Now The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center Spencer Educational Foundation — General Grants 2026 — Application Dates Announcement: RIMS and The Institute for Internal Auditors' Strategic Alliance on Education Nominations for the Donald M. Stuart Award [Canada] RIMS Webinars: RIMS.org/Webinars “Ready for Tomorrow? From Defense to Prevention: Strengthening Your Liability Risk Management Approach” | Sponsored by Hub International | April 17, 2025 “Better Together: The Marriage of Insurable Risk and Business Continuity” | Sponsored by Riskonnect | April 24, 2025 “Understanding Third Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich | May 1, 2025 “Asset Valuations in 2025: Managing Tariffs, Inflation, and Rising Insurance Scrutiny” | Sponsored by GRC, a TÜV SÜD Company | May 22, 2025   Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep with PARIMA | April 22‒23 Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule   Upcoming Virtual Workshops: “Managing Data for ERM” | June 12 | Instructor: Pat Saporito  “Generative AI for Risk Management” | June 26 | Instructor: Pat Saporito See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops   Related RIMScast Episodes: “Maintaining an Award-Winning ERM Program with Michael Zuraw” “Scenario Planning with the RIMS SERMC” “ERMotivation with Carrie Frandsen, RIMS-CRMP” “Risk Quantification Through Value-Based Frameworks” “Applying ERM Theory with Elise Farnham” “On Risk Appetite and Tolerance”   Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding” | Sponsored by Zurich (New!) “What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog (New!) “Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping” | Sponsored by Medcor “Risk Management in a Changing World: A Deep Dive into AXA's 2024 Future Risks Report” | Sponsored by AXA XL “How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack” | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog “Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips” | Sponsored by Alliant “RMIS Innovation with Archer” | Sponsored by Archer “Navigating Commercial Property Risks with Captives” | Sponsored by Zurich “Breaking Down Silos: AXA XL's New Approach to Casualty Insurance” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Weathering Today's Property Claims Management Challenges” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Storm Prep 2024: The Growing Impact of Convective Storms and Hail” | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company “Partnering Against Cyberrisk” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics for Effective Risk Management” | Sponsored by Marsh “Accident Prevention — The Winning Formula For Construction and Insurance” | Sponsored by Otoos “Platinum Protection: Underwriting and Risk Engineering's Role in Protecting Commercial Properties” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Elevating RMIS — The Archer Way” | Sponsored by Archer   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Kristen Peed!   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model®   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest: Jeff Strege, MBA, ARM, RIMS-CRMP, Sr. Director, Risk Management, Academy Sports + Outdoors   Production and engineering provided by Podfly.  

This is the second episode of Retail ReCap! In this monthly series, hosts Jeremy Mercer, Will Narduzzi, Bob Moorhead, and Rob Franks dive deep into the world of retail. From national trends to local developments, we're here to give you the inside scoop on what's driving the industry. Here's what we're unpacking in our debut episode: Retailer Expansion Plans: Dollar General Plans 575 New Stores – 4,250 Remodels The company also announced that it was testing out same-day delivery in 75 stores with plans to expand to “thousands of stores” if the test performs well. Burlington plans to open 100 new stores in 2025; Q3 sales up 11% Tractor Supply plans to open 90 new locations in 2025 Academy Sports plans to open 20 to 25 new stores in 2025 Lowes plans to open 10 -15 new stores in 2025 and beyond Aldi plans major expansion, renovation of U.S. headquarters The fast-growing discount grocer plans to add 800 stores nationwide by the end of 2028, and is expanding and renovating its U.S. corporate campus in Batavia, Ill. Aldi currently operates roughly 2,460 stores in the U.S. Fields West Development in Frisco (Valued at $660M – Legacy West 2.0) adds Bloomie's (49k SF – First in Texas), Pottery Barn, Mastro's (10k SF – First in DFW) alongside local favorites like Beverley's, Green Point, Mexican Sugar, Sixty Vines, Tommy Bahama's Marlin Bar and more. Current site plan attached. West Grove in McKinney (Custer & 380) nearing opening. Features one of 3 new Whole Foods openings nationally. Tenants include Sephora, Velvet Taco, etc. Current site plan attached. Kroger/Albertson's (Tom Thumb) $25B Merger called off. Kroger announced two new locations. Little Elm & Ft Worth Recently opened in Melissa, Under construction in Plano & Ft Worth (Coit & 121 + Bonds Ranch Rd) Tom Thumb broke ground on 3 new locations Midlothian, Sunnyvale, Sanger Terminated lease at Redbird Mall redevelopment. Competition from Joe V's opening on Camp Wisdom and development delays citied for the cause. Black Friday sees online sales increase by 10% with sales totaling $10.8 billion The entire Cyber Week generated a substantial $41.1 billion in sales. Container Store delisted from NYSE. Is bankruptcy imminent? Aerospace and defense manufacturing company RTX, formerly Raytheon Technologies, has sold its Dallas plant to one of the country's largest franchised automotive dealers. Georgia-based Asbury Automotive Group purchased RTX's roughly 15-acre site at 6000 Lemmon Ave. near Love Field for a Porsche dealership. Canadian-based Chewters Chocolates will soon begin construction on a $20.5M Rockwall chocolate factory. Plans to construct a 225,000-square-foot facility at Rockwall Technology Park. Tours will be offered

Owner, and Head Coach at Unbreakable Athletics Academy Jim Beebe joins us for episode 256 to discuss athletic performance, building a business in the fitness industry and developing brand awareness.  Unbreakable Athletics Academy has 200+ memebrs consisting of adults looking to get stronger & healthier, college and high schools athletes looking to take their performance to the next level and military & first responders preparing to protect and serve there communities. Unbreakable Athletics AcademyFacebookInstagram

Welcome to Omni Talk's Retail Daily Minute, where we unveil today's top headlines reshaping the retail landscape.In today's headlines:Trader Joe's adjusts its iconic banana prices for the first time in over 20 years, raising individual banana prices to 23 cents.Academy Sports + Outdoors announces plans to open 160 to 180 new stores over the next five years.BJ's Wholesale Club expands its footprint with a dozen new club openings across the Southeast and Midwest regions.GameStop implements job cuts as part of its cost-reduction efforts following declines in fourth-quarter and full-year sales.Stay tuned for more transformative developments in the retail industry, brought to you daily by Omni Talk. Be careful out there!

Academy Sports and Outdoors's Q3 2023 earnings call, unedited

#astros #playoffs #alcs Brian, Josh, and Dez discuss: - Astros history with elimination games - Mad Max vs Javier - GOTTA WIN TONIGHT Our ALCS Presenting Sponsor is Academy Sports & Outdoors This podcast is sponsored by Big City Wings! Sponsored by Celebrity Mint! Follow them on IG @TheCelebrityMint Sponsored by Zing Zang! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#astros #playoffs #alcs  Brian and Dez discuss: - Altuve’s 3-run tank - Texas fightclub - 1 win away Our ALCS Presenting Sponsor is Academy Sports & Outdoors This podcast is sponsored by Big City Wings! Sponsored by Celebrity Mint! Follow them on IG @TheCelebrityMint Sponsored by Zing Zang! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#astros #playoffs #alcs Brian, Dez and Josh discuss: - What went wrong in games 1 & 2 - What we RIGHT in games 1 & 2 - How the Astros can bounce back - Game 3 preview Our ALCS Presenting Sponsor is Academy Sports & Outdoors This podcast is sponsored by Big City Wings! Sponsored by Celebrity Mint! Follow them on IG @TheCelebrityMint Sponsored by Zing Zang! Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/apollohou Twitter: https://twitter.com/ApolloHOU/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apollohou/ Merch

#astros #playoffs #alcs Brian, Dez and Josh discuss: - An ALCS for the ages - Astros vs Rangers fans online - Games 1 & 2 matchup preview - Who do the Baseball Gods side with? Our ALCS Presenting Sponsor is Academy Sports & Outdoors This podcast is sponsored by Big City Wings! Sponsored by Celebrity Mint! Follow them on IG @TheCelebrityMint Sponsored by Zing Zang! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PlaybyPlay Podcast: Lululemon (NYSE: LULU) and Academy Sports and Outdoors (NasdaqGS: ASO) Post Q2 Results

PlaybyPlay Podcast: Skechers (NYSE: SKX) Posts Q2 Financial Results, Academy Sports and Outdoors (NasdaqGS: ASO) Open New Location in Virginia

PlaybyPlay Podcast: Estee Lauder (NYSE: EL) Skincare Partner for Manchester United (NYSE:MANU), Academy Sports and Outdoors, Inc. (NasdaqGS: ASO) Announces Two New Stores

Presented by the Daspit Law Firm and Academy Sports & Outdoors, Astros TV Play-By-Play Voice Todd Kalas joined the guys for his weekly spot in which he talks about the 'Stros excellent play over the last week, their ability to power through all the injuries they've dealt with this season, Jose Altuve's timeline for return post All Star Break, and more!

PlaybyPlay Podcast: WWE (NYSE: WWE) Sets Records with O2 Events, Academy Sports and Outdoors (NasdaqGS: ASO) Opens First Store in Peoria

PlaybyPlay Podcast: Churchill Downs (NasdaqGS: CHDN) Celebrating 150th Kentucky Derby, and Academy Sports and Outdoors (NasdaqGS: ASO) Announces Store Expansion

Since we were out Monday, we did exactly five minutes on our holiday weekend, gave our thoughts on the Succession finale, checked in on Russian spy whales, discussed how difficult it would be to escape a crocodile, and took a look at the new cast of Love Island UK. Enjoy a free two-week trial on Patreon for additional weekly episodes: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/circlingbackpodcast Watch all of our full episodes on our new YouTube channel: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@CirclingBack Shop Washed Merch: ⁠https://www.washedmedia.shop/⁠ (12:40) Recapping This Weekend in Fun (17:54) Succession Finale (36:40) Russian Spy Whale (43:30) Croc Attack (53:00) Love Island Cast (1:07:45) This Weekend in Fun Support Our Sponsors: R.O.W. by Academy- Elevate your style with R.O.W. at Academy Sports & Outdoors Sunday- Get the lawn you love. Sunday is offering our listeners 50% off your first box! So you can get started today for as little as $55 when you go to GET SUNDAY DOT COM SLASH STEAM at checkout Stamps.com- Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at https://www.stamps.com/circlingback. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show!

Miguel Méndez, analista independiente, cree que es momento de aprovechar el nerviosismo y las últimas caídas para tomar posiciones en Bolsa. "Es lógico que la Bolsa corriga porque ya había hecho los deberes y la negociación del techo de deuda es la excusa perfecta, pero hay que aprovechar las caídas para tomar posiciones alcistas", ha señalado Méndez en el consultorio de Bolsa de Capital Intereconomía. "El Nasdaq puede irse a la zona de los 13.200 puntos, pero mi sensación es que va a seguir subiendo", apunta. También cree que va a subir el Ibex 35 a pesar de que "se ha comportado peor que el Dax que ha batido sus máximos". "La Bolsa española va a mejorar cuando mejoren los bancos", ha dicho. Preguntado por los valores y sectores que están más fuertes ha puesto el foco en Teléfonica, IAG y Ferrovial dentro del Ibex 35. También apuesta por semiconductores como NVIDIA y AMD. Además Méndez ha analizado el aspecto técnico de otros valores como Grifols, Repsol, Inditex, BBVA, Santander, Academy Sports and Outdoors, IAG, Intuitive Surgical, ZIM, Adobe, Intel, Acerinox, Caixabank, Barrick Gold y Ence.

Presented by The Daspit Law Firm and Academy Sports & Outdoors, Astros TV Play-By-Play Voice Todd Kalas joined the guys to discuss Jose Altuve's return to the lineup, what he makes of Jose Abreu being returned to the clean-up spot despite his struggles, the excellent job the 'Stros have done filling holes in their starting rotation, and more!

Presented by the Daspit Law Firm and Academy Sports & Outdoors, Astros TV Play-By-Play Voice Todd Kalas joined the guys for his weekly spot in which he discusses the current state of the Astros, Jose Altuve's incredibly quick recovery, the weekend series with the White Sox, and more!

Presented by The Daspit Law Firm and Academy Sports & Outdoors, Astros TV PxP Voice Todd Kalas joined the guys for his weekly spot discussing the Astros recent struggles, how he expects the lineup to change as Michael Brantley returns from the IL, preview the series with the Mariners, and more!

Bloomberg News Finance Reporter Hannah Levitt and Bloomberg Intelligence Senior Analyst for US Regional Banks Herman Chan discuss how just over a year before Silicon Valley Bank's collapse threatened a generation of technology startups and their backers, the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco appointed a more senior team of examiners to assess the firm. Okta CEO Todd McKinnon talks about the identity and access management business. Ken Hicks, CEO of Academy Sports and Outdoors, breaks down the company's earnings thoughts on the consumer. Bloomberg Markets Correspondent Kriti Gupta and Anthony DeRuijter, Senior Analyst at Third Bridge, discuss FedEx's earnings surprise and outlook going forward. Amanda Hesser, Founder and Co-CEO of Food52, talks about why food is the center of a well-lived life. And we Drive to the Close with George Schultze, Founder and CEO of Schultze Asset Management. Hosts: Carol Massar and Jess Menton. Producer: Paul Brennan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bryan Anthony Rhoden pleaded not guilty Monday morning in the killing of three people in July 2021 at Pinetree Country Club, Cobb County District Attorney Flynn Broady said. Rhoden, 25, is facing the death penalty for his alleged role in the kidnapping and slaying of Paul Pierson, 76, of Kansas, and Henry Valdez, 46, of California. He is accused of binding the two men in Jonesboro, driving them to the Kennesaw golf course and shooting them there. The third victim — Gene Siller, who worked as Pinetree's golf pro — is believed by investigators to have been shot and killed because he came upon an active crime when he went to investigate a truck on the course. Monday was Rhoden's first court appearance since August, when prosecutors entered their formal notice they would seek the death penalty. Rhoden's attorneys Joshua Moore and Emily Prokesch of the Georgia Public Defender Council's death penalty division said at the time they expected to plead not guilty. To celebrate and thank essential workers, the Meeting Park neighborhood in Marietta hosted its third annual Big Thank You event on Dec. 12. The event — organized by four Meeting Park residents — was an all-day affair that invited workers, from firefighters to EMTs to delivery drivers, to enjoy a free breakfast of doughnuts and coffee, and Subway sandwiches for lunch. Workers left with goodie bags and Chick-fil-A gift cards. Meeting Park is made up of townhomes and cluster homes, and is located just a couple of blocks southeast of Marietta Square. Four people served on the Big Thank You organizing committee: Brazil, Jan Chandler, Wendy Rivera and Marilyn Milly. Chandler first thought of the idea amidst the pandemic in 2020, when the efforts of essential workers were especially needed and appreciated. The first Big Thank You was celebrated that year. The Meeting Park committee called upon its residents to donate money, baked goods, gift cards and volunteer time for the event. Residents and workers alike broke bread together in the neighborhood's pocket park. In the future, Chandler would like to host the event seasonally so the community workers can be celebrated four times a year, as opposed to once during the holidays. Attendees included school board members, City Council members and more, according to Chandler. Leftover food was donated to The Zone, a local nonprofit that aids people in recovery from opioid addiction. Rows of shiny new bikes — 100 in all — filled the Green Acres Elementary School gym waiting to be claimed by the students who had earned the new wheels. When the honored Green Acres students walked into the gym, sat down on the floor and gazed up at the sparkling new bikes, they did not know they would soon be taking one of the bikes home. Green Acres Principal Ashley Mize stood amid the 100 bikes when she surprised the students with the announcement that they earned one of the new 20-inch bikes because of their commitment to positive character traits through the Grand Slam incentive. Teachers selected the 1-3 grade students based on their positive attendance record, classroom work habits, excellent behavior and citizenship, which included showing a positive attitude, empathy, best effort, being a team player and respectful. Academy Sports provided the bikes through their partnership with the Atlanta Braves. The bike giveaway was the finale to the Atlanta Braves Season of Giving campaign at Green Acres, which brought more than 40 volunteers to the school, plus the National League's Rookie of the Year, Michael Harris II. Volunteers helped the Green Acre students write their names on the bike of their choice. Some students could not resist trying out their ride and the accompanying Academy Sports helmet or hat. The Green Acres Grand Slam students were not the only ones surprised during the gifting finale. One of Principal Mize's favorite memories of the Season of Giving day was surprising a teacher with a two-night stay in a luxury suite at an Omni hotel. A representative from Omni Hotels surprised fourth-grade teacher Monica Brooks with the news that she won a relaxing couple of days inside a luxury suite. The Omni representative had one more surprise for Green Acres. After all of Principal Mize's work to surprise students and staff and coordinate the volunteer activities that benefited the school, Omni had a surprise for the Green Acres principal. Like Brooks, Principal Mize also won a two-night stay at the Omni Hotel.   Nicholas Bos of Marietta, a member of Boy Scout Troop #675, recently earned the honor of Eagle Scout, the highest rank that the Boy Scouts offers. Only 4% of Boy Scout members ever attain this prestigious honor. Bos, 17, a student in Wheeler High School's Magnet Program in the Center for Advanced Studies, achieved the 21 merit badges required to receive the Eagle Scout award. He earned 15 additional merit badges, for which he was awarded three palms: Bronze, Gold and Silver. For his final project, Bos served the Marietta community by replacing an unsafe pedestrian bridge with an entirely new bridge, thereby reopening a community walking trail in a protected nature area off John Ward Road. A ceremony honoring Bos took place on Dec. 17 at North Metro Church. Family and friends attended the ceremony. Grandparent, parent and mentor pins were also awarded during the ceremony, recognizing the efforts of the people who played an important role in Bos' achievement.   McDonald's owners and operators in Atlanta selected 30 deserving educators and individuals who represent programs and organizations that fuel the imagination, education and growth of students, as recipients of a Golden Grant. Allocated to various teachers and organizations was $40,000 to positively impact the lives of thousands of students. Locally, Clarkdale Elementary School's Afterschool Science Olympiad Program received $10,000 and Campbell Middle School's Technology Student Association Campbell Middle School Chapter received $1,000. Activities that qualified for a Golden Grant include arts and crafts programs, education initiatives, mentorship and empowerment programs, after-school programs, community service outreach, sporting programs, technology and COVID-19 relief efforts. Winners were recognized during check presentations from Dec. 12-16 by local owners and operators. #CobbCounty #Georgia #LocalNews      -            -            -            -            -            The Marietta Daily Journal Podcast is local news for Marietta, Kennesaw, Smyrna, and all of Cobb County.             Subscribe today, so you don't miss an episode! MDJOnline            Register Here for your essential digital news.            https://www.chattahoocheetech.edu/  https://cuofga.org/ https://www.esogrepair.com/ https://www.drakerealty.com/           Find additional episodes of the MDJ Podcast here.             This Podcast was produced and published for the Marietta Daily Journal and MDJ Online by BG Ad Group   For more information be sure to visit https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com                      See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the Spread The Positive Podcast, where we focus on all the good happening in the world and the people making a positive impact. In this episode, host Joel Bigelow, the founder of Endure Athletics, talks about all the exciting things happening for Christmas and New Year's with Endure. He'll also be chatting about how Ben Jones, the center for the Tennessee Titans, partnered with Academy Sports and Outdoors in Cool Springs, TN to support the kids of Endure Athletics and spread some holiday cheer. listen in to hear more about the Christmas season with Endure and what is in store for 2023! Very exciting times. As always if you can support please do so at endureathletics.org/donate!

Welcome to the Spread The Positive Podcast, where we focus on all the good happening in the world and the people making a positive impact. In this episode, host Joel Bigelow, the founder of Endure Athletics, talks about all the exciting things happening for Christmas and New Year's with Endure. He'll also be chatting about how Ben Jones, the center for the Tennessee Titans, partnered with Academy Sports and Outdoors in Cool Springs, TN to support the kids of Endure Athletics and spread some holiday cheer. listen in to hear more about the Christmas season with Endure and what is in store for 2023! Very exciting times.  As always if you can support please do so at endureathletics.org/donate!

 A Nashville, Tennessee-based investment firm has purchased the Town Center Commons shopping center for $13 million. The deal for 615 Ventures to purchase the 72,000-square-foot property at 725 Barrett Parkway from Atlanta-based investment firm Ardent was announced Tuesday by Franklin Street, the real estate firm that brokered the deal. Town Center Commons is south of Barrett Parkway and west of Interstate 75. It is anchored by Public Lands, a new outdoor and sporting goods concept from Dick's Sporting Goods. Other retailers at the property include Five Below, The Original Mattress Factory, Affordable Dentures & Implants, Town Center Nails, K-Town Vapor Lounge, Automation Personnel Services and Pinch of Spice. The property also includes a vacant 2,880-square-foot “end-cap unit,” a storefront at one end of the shopping center. Amazon will close its Kennesaw warehouse in April, according to a filing the company made with the Georgia Department of Labor last week. The warehouse employs 219 workers. The online retailer is set to close its ATL5 facility at 4190 Jiles Road on April 1 of next year, Tonya Hallet, Amazon's vice president of people experience and technology solutions, said in a letter to the labor department and Kennesaw Mayor Derek Easterling. Hallet said 219 employees will lose their jobs as a result of the closure, with four waves of layoffs set to begin December 27 and continue until the April 1 closing date. The letter from Hallet, sent in accordance with the federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, said employees impacted by the closure “have been offered internal transfer opportunities at Amazon.” Amazon spokeswoman Betsy Harden confirmed Amazon's filing with the labor department was related to the closure of Fabric.com. The online fabric retailer, purchased by Amazon in 2008, moved from a Marietta warehouse off Northwest Parkway to the Jiles Road location in 2012. Harden said that, in addition to internal transfer opportunities, Amazon is providing all affected employees with severance pay. Amazon closed Fabric.com on October 20, with the trade group Craft Industry Alliance first reporting news of the closure on October 19.   Among the questions elementary school students have about Atlanta Braves outfielder Michael Harris II: Does he have a girlfriend? What is his favorite video game? Is he famous? The answers are yes, “Call of Duty” and maybe, depending on who you ask. On Wednesday, more than 50 Braves employees, including Harris, the National League Rookie of the Year, visited Green Acres Elementary school in Smyrna. Harris visited three classrooms, fielding questions from students. Meanwhile, volunteers from the Braves did landscaping work, painted, and packed bags with food and snacks for kids to take home over the holiday break. One hundred students across first, second and third grades were chosen by their teachers to receive a free bike from Academy Sports and Outdoors, based on their attendance, behavior and hard work. The gestures came after Green Acres was adopted by the Atlanta Braves Foundation for the 2022-23 school year as its inaugural “Hank Aaron All-Star School.” Through the program, the foundation looks to provide the school with teacher and classroom support, facility improvements and student engagement. Braves foundation executive director Danielle Bedassee estimated the Braves Foundation has put around $30,000 toward the school. The foundation contributes to Green Acres' food pantry, is designing a break room for teachers and plans to add a projector screen in the school cafeteria. Corporate partners of the Braves have also chipped in. RaceTrac donated $25 gift cards to all of the teachers, and Omni Hotel at The Battery Atlanta gave a free two-night stay to fourth-grade teacher Monica Brooks, who was chosen for the honor by Green Acres Principal Ashley Mize. Marietta​​​​​​​​​-area volunteers are celebrating the collection of gift-filled shoeboxes that will send the message to children around the world: God loves you, and you're not forgotten! Thousands of volunteers contributed to Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan's Purse by packing shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies and hygiene items. The global Christmas project will deliver these gifts to children in need. Although drop-off locations have closed, there is still time to share hope and love with children overseas by packing a gift-filled shoebox online. Shoeboxes built online go to some of the hardest-to-reach areas in the world. Those who prefer the convenience of online shopping can browse samaritanspurse.org/buildonline to select gifts matched to a child's specific age and gender, then finish packing the virtual shoebox by adding a photo and personal note of encouragement. Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan's Purse, seeks to demonstrate God's love in a tangible way to children in need around the world. Since 1993, they have collected and delivered more than 198 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories. This year, Operation Christmas Child will collect its 200-millionth shoebox. Elections for the new city of Mableton's mayor and six-member city council are scheduled for March 21, 2023, according to Cobb Elections Director Janine Eveler. Eveler said the special election will be officially called on December 30 by the Cobb Board of Elections. Candidate qualifying will be held over three days at the main elections office at in Marietta. It will begin Wednesday, January 18, at 8:30 a.m. and end Friday, Jan. 20, at 4:30 p.m. The hours for qualifying are set for 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day. Qualifying fees will be $900 for mayoral candidates and $600 for council candidates, to be paid by cash, personal check, money order or cashier's check made out to Cobb County Board of Elections and Registration. Candidates must meet the qualifications laid out in the bill signed by Gov. Brian Kemp in April that put the Mableton cityhood referendum on November's general election ballot. Candidates for both mayor and city council must be at least 21 years old and have lived within the city's boundaries for at least 12 months immediately prior to the election. City council candidates must have lived in the council district in which they are running for at least 12 months immediately prior to the election. Terms for the first council will be staggered, per the city charter, with three members serving from March 2023-December 2025, while the other three will serve from March 2023-December 2027. All members of successive councils will serve four-year terms, and no elected officials in Mableton will be permitted to serve more than three consecutive terms. Council members will be elected by the residents of the district they are running to represent, while the mayor will be elected citywide. The deadline to register to vote before the Mableton elections is February 21. Early voting will start February 27. An early voting schedule will be published on the Cobb elections website. As national signing day approaches, three more Cobb County athletes made their commitments to where they will continue their college careers. Kennesaw Mountain offensive lineman Connor Lew switched his commitment from Miami to Auburn, Hillgrove linebacker Zion Rutledge chose Chattanooga and McEachern basketball standout Jamichael Davis will play for Rutgers. Lew, a 6-foot-3, 280-pound center had 25 Division I offers when the four-star recruit selected Miami in August over Auburn, Georgia and Clemson. On Tuesday, he changed his mind. Lew's long-term goals include going into the aviation field, and Auburn's program has ties with Atlanta-based Delta. Rutledge chose Chattanooga, a regular leader of the Southern Conference, over Wofford and South Carolina State, among others. The 6-foot, 220-pound Region 3AAAAAAA Defensive Player of the Year led Class AAAAAAA in tackles during the regular season and finished the year with 160 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 3½ sacks and two forced fumbles. Chattanooga traditionally has one of the best wrestling programs in the South and is a consistent contender to win the SoCon championship, and Rutledge could add to that success. He won the Class AAAAAAA state title at 220 pounds last season and went 45-2. Davis, a three-star recruit, is in his first season with McEachern after transferring from Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe, where he averaged 22 points and 12 rebounds per game as a junior. The 6-foot-2, 160-pound point guard has helped McEachern get off to a 7-4 start this season, playing one of the most difficult schedules in the state. Rutgers found Davis when Scarlet Knights coach Steve Pikiell and assistant coach Brandin Knight were scouting McEachern teammate Ace Bailey at an AAU tournament over the summer. They liked Davis' competitiveness and effort at both ends of the floor, as well as his ability to drive and finish in the lane. #CobbCounty #Georgia #LocalNews      -            -            -            -            -            The Marietta Daily Journal Podcast is local news for Marietta, Kennesaw, Smyrna, and all of Cobb County.             Subscribe today, so you don't miss an episode! MDJOnline            Register Here for your essential digital news.            https://www.chattahoocheetech.edu/  https://cuofga.org/ https://www.esogrepair.com/ https://www.drakerealty.com/           Find additional episodes of the MDJ Podcast here.             This Podcast was produced and published for the Marietta Daily Journal and MDJ Online by BG Ad Group   For more information be sure to visit https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com      See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're diving into Dick's Sporting Goods (DKS) vs Academy Sports and Outdoors (ASO). How do the companies match up on fundamentals, debt exposure, footprint space, and technicals? We're breaking it down!

Chris Meade used Gorgias to generate over $1,000,000 in retail sales, learn how he did, and you can too.Shray Joshi joins Chris to share big mistakes they've made during BFCM in years past.Sign up for Chris' weekly newsletter Cross Commerce here, and connect with him on Twitter and Linkedin. Chris Meade is the co-founder & CMO of CROSSNET, the world's first four-way volleyball game. Chris was honored with Forbes 30U30 for the 2021 Sports category. CROSSNET combines elements of the childhood game four square and volleyball in a competitive game to 11, win by 2. CROSSNET is now available at 3000+ retail stores such as Walmart, Target, DICKS, Academy Sports, Sam's Club and 20+ other retailers.

Chris Meade used Gorgias to generate over $1,000,000 in retail sales, https://www.gorgias.com/customers/crossnet (learn how he did, and you can too). After starting an Instagram account about the life of a baseball player. It grew into a community, and before he knew it a brand. This is his story, and the lessons learned along the way. Key moments in this episode of My Biggest Lessons 4:35 Professional athletes who have made it to the big leagues 5:30 Waiting until 1M in sales before spending money on advertising 7:00 Founder dynamics with a large age gap and working with your wife 8:00 College World Series the fire Marshall set up. 10:00 Business never escapes us Chris audiogram 10:30 Hiring a fractional CEO, and what you get from hiring them. When you need to spend more money. 17:00 getting into stores like Sheilds 18:00 Driving retail sales and sell through 19:45 Generating $5000 a day in sales from a single pop-up Sign up for Chris' weekly newsletter https://chrismeade.beehiiv.com/subscribe (Cross Commerce) here, and connect with him on https://twitter.com/chrismeadej (Twitter) and https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjmeade/ (Linkedin). Chris Meade is the co-founder & CMO of CROSSNET, the world's first four-way volleyball game. Chris was honored with Forbes 30U30 for the 2021 Sports category. CROSSNET combines elements of the childhood game four square and volleyball in a competitive game to 11, win by 2. CROSSNET is now available at 3000+ retail stores such as Walmart, Target, DICKS, Academy Sports, Sam's Club and 20+ other retailers.

Chris Meade used Gorgias to generate over $1,000,000 in retail sales, https://www.gorgias.com/customers/crossnet (learn how he did, and you can too). Cael Schwartz is head of product at Birddogs, he stopped by the DTCX studio in NYC to talk about their growth, Shark Tank, and advertising on platforms like Pornhub and Grinder. Key lessons in this episode. 5:00 The Impact Chubbies had on two ecommerce founders 6:13 Backlash from marketing emails 7:45 Funny stories 11:13 Day in the life of a head of product at an ecommerce company. 14:00 Inventory fuck ups 16:00 Begging suppliers to slow down after Shark Tank 21:00 Ordering 6 months of back inventory by accident 22:00 TV ads and alternative advertising networks including Pornhub and Grinder 28:00 Why Birddogs keeps everything in houseSign up for Chris' weekly newsletter https://chrismeade.beehiiv.com/subscribe (Cross Commerce) here, and connect with him on https://twitter.com/chrismeadej (Twitter) and https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjmeade/ (Linkedin). Chris Meade is the co-founder & CMO of CROSSNET, the world's first four-way volleyball game. Chris was honored with Forbes 30U30 for the 2021 Sports category. CROSSNET combines elements of the childhood game four square and volleyball in a competitive game to 11, win by 2. CROSSNET is now available at 3000+ retail stores such as Walmart, Target, DICKS, Academy Sports, Sam's Club and 20+ other retailers.

Chris Meade used Gorgias to generate over $1,000,000 in retail sales, https://www.gorgias.com/customers/crossnet (learn how he did, and you can too). Emanuel Storch is the founder of Blackbird foods, based out of NYC the OG plant protein and frozen pizza. Based Now the fastest growing pizza brand. Prior to this, he was the founder of Simpli gum. Key moments in this episode 0:00 Intro and how Blackbird Foods became the best plant based pizza and fastest growing pizza brand in the world. 3:00 Getting started with plant based meats to restaurants for plant based meat. 60% of the business is selling into food distributors. 5:00 Increasing sell-thru instores through sampling, and allocating budget into in-store samples and trade spending and going up to 20% trade spend. 9:00 Horror stories rolling up into retail. Bad promotions like individual slides and trying to get new ideas to shop. 11:15 How Blackbird Foods has changed from their first iteration, and growing from a plant based audience to a more wide appeal for flexitarians and adventurous foodies. 12:45 Selling on platforms like getter and Uber Eats. 14:30 How they were able to get into Whole Foods with regional and national buying. Emanuel started regional focusing on the North East including their home town of New York. They also launched in the South West region including Texas where the Whole Foods headquarters is. 16:30 Lessons learned from bringing Simply gum into Wal-Mart, Target, and Whole Foods. 17:00 Funding the business and keeping things simple including the best things being done in-house, and finding the right hires early on. 21:00 Lessons learned from product line expansion. Just because something is good for restaurants, doesn't mean that it will be a great fit for a restaurant. Sign up for Chris' weekly newsletter https://chrismeade.beehiiv.com/subscribe (Cross Commerce) here, and connect with him on https://twitter.com/chrismeadej (Twitter) and https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjmeade/ (Linkedin). Chris Meade is the co-founder & CMO of CROSSNET, the world's first four-way volleyball game. Chris was honored with Forbes 30U30 for the 2021 Sports category. CROSSNET combines elements of the childhood game four square and volleyball in a competitive game to 11, win by 2. CROSSNET is now available at 3000+ retail stores such as Walmart, Target, DICKS, Academy Sports, Sam's Club and 20+ other retailers.

Chris Meade used Gorgias to generate over $1,000,000 in retail sales, https://www.gorgias.com/customers/crossnet (learn how he did, and you can too). Pete Sena is a creative entrepreneur and forward-obsessed business builder and founder of Digital Surgeons. He brings over 20 years of experience with him, working on brands like Lego and Hershey to American Express and SalesforceTopics and Lessons. Lessons Pete has learned, and shares with the audience. Get your contract signed before giving away work. (Working with two major celebrities created a breakthrough campaign but had to chase the money) You have to start by defining success. Success isn't just working with great clients and making financial gains. How i've leaned into frameworks to shift and evolve my thinking. Where our focus goes our energy flows. It took me 15 years to realize that speed comes with systems and smart workflows. Now I lean into automations and frameworks to grow. DON'T build a business AROUND you. Key Moments in this episode: 2:30 Getting qualified to work with brands from someone who knows how to design and code from first iteration to going public and big names like Kanye West and Lady Gaga. 4:00 Choosing the right agency partner is about working on what the agency is best at. If they're a PR agency, focus on PR, not website design. 7:30 When a $100,000,000 digital turnaround strategy doesn't go as planned. 9:30 Lessons from Nik Sharma on branding through different tactical lenses. Branding is always happening. It's easier to brand first then to go back and try to overhaul and fix things. 12:30 Measuring brand vs other aspects like conversion, and how those investments early on make a difference. 14:00 The first advice Pete would give to someone starting an agency is don't start an agency. Sometimes it just happens, but other times it's a way to work on your craft. You don't need to start an agency to do what you want to do. 16:00 Working at an agency is a great way to work on a few different things without bouncing around jobs. Starting an agency is starting a service based business. 18:30 The world of instant gratification and ease of getting started leading to a lack of patience. Diversification helps, but it won't help you chase passion. Knowing yourself is the most important thing when it comes to waiting for an overnight success. 22:00 The green zone, or the zone of genius is where you can be motivated to work and you're good at. Some people might love data entry whereas others love more creative work. 24:00 Staying motivated and thinking beyond the metrics when there are other things to think of. Crossnet is more than daily sales, it's creating memories and beautiful days with friends and family. 30:00 Finding your purpose and making it easier to have the genius zone. Sign up for Chris' weekly newsletter https://chrismeade.beehiiv.com/subscribe (Cross Commerce) here, and connect with him on https://twitter.com/chrismeadej (Twitter) and https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjmeade/ (Linkedin). Chris Meade is the co-founder & CMO of CROSSNET, the world's first four-way volleyball game. Chris was honored with Forbes 30U30 for the 2021 Sports category. CROSSNET combines elements of the childhood game four square and volleyball in a competitive game to 11, win by 2. CROSSNET is now available at 3000+ retail stores such as Walmart, Target, DICKS, Academy Sports, Sam's Club and 20+ other retailers.

Chris Meade used Gorgias to generate over $1,000,000 in retail sales, https://www.gorgias.com/customers/crossnet (learn how he did, and you can too). Dan Demsky is a co-founder of Unbound Merino. A premium apparel company made for travel. 3:45 Getting started and positioning a premium brand online 9:35 How do customers understand about Merino and the properties. 11:35 Do customers come back or buy more. 13:25 The skills from a video production company that helped to launch an ecommerce brand with customers instead of clients. 15:20 Biggest lessons and mistakes, including hiring much faster than they could keep up with. Sign up for Chris' weekly newsletter https://chrismeade.beehiiv.com/subscribe (Cross Commerce) here, and connect with him on https://twitter.com/chrismeadej (Twitter) and https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjmeade/ (Linkedin). Chris Meade is the co-founder & CMO of CROSSNET, the world's first four-way volleyball game. Chris was honored with Forbes 30U30 for the 2021 Sports category. CROSSNET combines elements of the childhood game four square and volleyball in a competitive game to 11, win by 2. CROSSNET is now available at 3000+ retail stores such as Walmart, Target, DICKS, Academy Sports, Sam's Club and 20+ other retailers.

Chris Meade used Gorgias to generate over $1,000,000 in retail sales, https://www.gorgias.com/customers/crossnet (learn how he did, and you can too). Mike Fata is the founder of Manitoba Harvest. A company that makes natural hemp foods sold online and in-store. Get in contact with him, and https://www.fatafleishman.org/ (learn more about mentoring here). 2:00 Thoughts on college and university and educating yourself. There are more ways to educate yourself than traditional channels. 4:30 How Mike funded the original iteration of Manitoba Harvest. Now as an investor, Mike shares what types of investments he makes in products, and founders he'd like to have in his house, and singing high praise for Jake at Mid Day Squares. 7:30 It's a much more competitive world now, but there are more tools you can use. 9:00 Lessons learned the hard way, including not trying to fight the government. Even if you win the battle, you could be paying a lot more down the road. 10:30 Being an entrepreneur is a competitive sport, and you have to eat and train like an athlete. Chris shares the benefits of doing yoga or Pilates twice a week. 13:30 Bootstraping, putting in your own capital, and building out your own board of advisors. Mike shares resources for setting up an advisory board without being taken advantage of. 16:00 The race to profitability with lowering valuations and the importance of making money. The journey from $5-$10M and then to $50M requires a ton of capital. A true 50% gross margin with discounts and overhead gives you the ability to tap into growth. Sign up for Chris' weekly newsletter https://chrismeade.beehiiv.com/subscribe (Cross Commerce) here, and connect with him on https://twitter.com/chrismeadej (Twitter) and https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjmeade/ (Linkedin). Chris Meade is the co-founder & CMO of CROSSNET, the world's first four-way volleyball game. Chris was honored with Forbes 30U30 for the 2021 Sports category. CROSSNET combines elements of the childhood game four square and volleyball in a competitive game to 11, win by 2. CROSSNET is now available at 3000+ retail stores such as Walmart, Target, DICKS, Academy Sports, Sam's Club and 20+ other retailers.

Academy Sports & Outdoors (ASO) is a full-line sporting goods and outdoor recreational retailer. George Tsilis discusses ASO as its earnings were released Wednesday, September 7th. He talks about how ASO's 2Q comp sales declined 6%, but EPS beat estimates coming in at $2.30 versus an estimated $2.07. He then goes over how ASO's 2Q ecommerce sales grew 12.1%. Tune in to find out more about the stock market today.

Chris Meade used Gorgias to generate over $1,000,000 in retail sales, https://www.gorgias.com/customers/crossnet (learn how he did, and you can too). Athletes treat pain with many different remedies, but many have side effects or other bad stuff. That's why Ryan Gresh started the Feel Good Lab. 2:37 Mark Cuban tackling pharmaceuticals. 3:46 Creating products without bad ingredients for transdermal delivery, but keeping the ingredients that work. 5:20 Getting customers to trial a new product when you're in chronic pain through authoritative 8:30 Selling on QVC and making the claims around brand level natural messaging. 13:00 Learning how to use fund raising to drive retail sales in stores like Target vs bootstrapping and then raising money when you need it. 19:30 The mistake of paying part time employees full time wages. 21:00 Ryan's biggest lesson of treating the business like a family and not a sports team. Not everyone will treat the business the same way as you. Sign up for Chris' weekly newsletter https://chrismeade.beehiiv.com/subscribe (Cross Commerce) here, and connect with him on https://twitter.com/chrismeadej (Twitter) and https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjmeade/ (Linkedin). Chris Meade is the co-founder & CMO of CROSSNET, the world's first four-way volleyball game. Chris was honored with Forbes 30U30 for the 2021 Sports category. CROSSNET combines elements of the childhood game four square and volleyball in a competitive game to 11, win by 2. CROSSNET is now available at 3000+ retail stores such as Walmart, Target, DICKS, Academy Sports, Sam's Club and 20+ other retailers.

2 Academy Sports Break-ins in about an hour just happened in OUR AREA, during 4 & 5 AM CST, AND THEY MANAGED TO ESCAPE!?!?!?! Be careful these crooks are becoming more and more brazen, but at least they were dumb! Let this be a lesson to yall out there, this is happening more and more, keep your heads on a swivel!   Radio Version: Tj Kirgin @Sig_Glockincolt, Alex @dynadeathmilberg, and Krystal Stone of @krystalstonefitness ------------------------- Thank You to All Our Sponsors That Made This podcast possible, and shitheads like YOU You can listen to the show on the following channels in their respective areas KRTK 93.3 FM, K283CI 104.5FM, & KMOV 104.3FM-In the STL area  KLPW 107.3 FM-In the St. James  area 100.7FM- in the East STL IL. area You can also catch this on the AM channels 1010 & 920 AM in the MO / IL area

2 Academy Sports Break-ins in about an hour just happened in OUR AREA, during 4 & 5 AM CST, AND THEY MANAGED TO ESCAPE!?!?!?! Be careful these crooks are becoming more and more brazen, but at least they were dumb! Let this be a lesson to yall out there, this is happening more and more, keep your heads on a swivel!   Radio Version: Tj Kirgin @Sig_Glockincolt, Alex @dynadeathmilberg, and Krystal Stone of @krystalstonefitness ------------------------- Thank You to All Our Sponsors That Made This podcast possible, and shitheads like YOU You can listen to the show on the following channels in their respective areas KRTK 93.3 FM, K283CI 104.5FM, & KMOV 104.3FM-In the STL area  KLPW 107.3 FM-In the St. James  area 100.7FM- in the East STL IL. area You can also catch this on the AM channels 1010 & 920 AM in the MO / IL area

Nik Hall is a follower of Christ, husband to the best wife, and the cofounder of vitafive, an emerging gummy vitamin brand with high quality ingredients and now a lower sugar gummy vitamin alternative that we have launched into Target and HEB (while previously scaling our sugar gummy into over 7,000 retail doors. Key times in this episode https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPnVXi1mf04&t=210s (3:30) Why people stop taking their vitamins after a few weeks and lifetime value drops. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPnVXi1mf04&t=330s (5:30) Managing regulations and following best practices. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPnVXi1mf04&t=570s (9:30) Good vs bad partners. Stay away from drug stores like CVS and Walgreens. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPnVXi1mf04&t=930s (15:30) Breaking down the math of increasing LTV https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPnVXi1mf04&t=1020s (17:00) Go slow and build methodically vs trying to do everything all the time. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPnVXi1mf04&t=1200s (20:00) Changes in marketing spend now vs 12 months ago, and mastering Amazon ad buying budget. 23:27 Nik's biggest lesson is to have faith that the process and everything will work out. Sign up for Chris' weekly newsletter https://chrismeade.beehiiv.com/subscribe (Cross Commerce) here, and connect with him on https://twitter.com/chrismeadej (Twitter) and https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjmeade/ (Linkedin). Chris Meade is the co-founder & CMO of CROSSNET, the world's first four-way volleyball game. Chris was honored with Forbes 30U30 for the 2021 Sports category. CROSSNET combines elements of the childhood game four square and volleyball in a competitive game to 11, win by 2. CROSSNET is now available at 3000+ retail stores such as Walmart, Target, DICKS, Academy Sports, Sam's Club and 20+ other retailers.

After a detailed review of setting up the float rig, this episode discusses how to implement the float rig to locate fish in large and new areas, as well as the best bait to float for each of the inshore slam species.  

Starting late summer the bigger kings move closer to shore, and this episode details locations, weather variables that affect the bite, bait, rigs (including a wire king rig demo), and presentation.  

Engineer turned Entreprenur Austin Maxwell started out on Shark Tank, and now he's selling coolers around the country. Austin shares his secrets to: Generating his first $100K in sales to get on Shark Tank Dominating trade shows as a sales channel and form of lead generation The Shark Tank impact on a growing business All ships sink eventually, including the partnerships you launched your business with. How Austin is currently finding high ROI on Tik Tok. Sign up for Chris' weekly newsletter https://chrismeade.beehiiv.com/subscribe (Cross Commerce) here, and connect with him on https://twitter.com/chrismeadej (Twitter) and https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjmeade/ (Linkedin). Chris Meade is the co-founder & CMO of CROSSNET, the world's first four-way volleyball game. Chris was honored with Forbes 30U30 for the 2021 Sports category. CROSSNET combines elements of the childhood game four square and volleyball in a competitive game to 11, win by 2. CROSSNET is now available at 3000+ retail stores such as Walmart, Target, DICKS, Academy Sports, Sam's Club and 20+ other retailers.

Fishing just off the beach in the summertime opens up a number of possibilities, and this episode talks about finding productive structure, as well as the tackle and techniques for grunts, sea bass, and flounder (among other species)..  

This conversation covers targeting sheepshead on docks, bridges, and oyster bars, and it includes a discussion of gear, bait, rigs, and how the techniques differ for the three types of locations.

Tim Sheilds invented a sport! He joins Chris to share his biggest lessons, along with his journey of inventing and launching a sport! 1:00 Recent success of UBall, and what it is. 2:00 What if James Nasmith invented basketball today? 3:30 The painpoint that lead to the product being invented. 4:45 Growing the sport and learning lessons the hard way 6:30 Manufacturing issues. 8:30 Quality testing to make sure the product can survive, and not testing in extreme heat. 11:10 Working with big names like Lonzo ball, and motivating them to continue to post. 16:00 Importance of email marketing to be able to tell your story. 19:30 Messaging and availability for your customers 21:47 Afterpay and other payment options, and sneaking it into the abandoned cart flow 23:00 The Biggest Lesson - not following up and staying in touch with personal relationships. Pick 5 relationships to foster and talk to them on a weekly basis, and what to talk about when you're hanging out with friends Sign up for Chris' weekly newsletter https://chrismeade.beehiiv.com/subscribe (Cross Commerce) here, and connect with him on https://twitter.com/chrismeadej (Twitter) and https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjmeade/ (Linkedin). Chris Meade is the co-founder & CMO of CROSSNET, the world's first four-way volleyball game. Chris was honored with Forbes 30U30 for the 2021 Sports category. CROSSNET combines elements of the childhood game four square and volleyball in a competitive game to 11, win by 2. CROSSNET is now available at 3000+ retail stores such as Walmart, Target, DICKS, Academy Sports, Sam's Club and 20+ other retailers.

Sean Riley has gone from being on Shark Tank to millions of dollars a year in sales. Clean your butt. https://dudeproducts.com/ 1:17 with the story of how it was created, and launching a company while having full time jobs. 4:50 Going from some cool learnings to making it a full time with less than 100K in sales by going through an incubator, and taking part time jobs to make ends meet. 6:00 Getting into more retail stores and sections, and launching complimentary products that grow bigger and faster. 7:30 Raising capital and working with Mark Cuban. They used the money toward inventory, and that's the best place to put capital early on if you can. This let them build relationships with banks to open up lines of credit based on sales and accounts receivable. ivan@hoski.ca This is a good audiogram. 10:20 Be patient and let the capital come. 10:50 $702,000 in Amazon Prime sales. Using previous data to place bets for home runs and use the inventory for future orders. 13:10 Mark Cuban's best advice early on was don't drown in opportunity. Spend your time with what's working. They learned during COVID how to prioritize their loyal retailers who reordered and slotted in toilet paper isles. 15:00 Most of the budget is spent putting towards getting new trials. Their NASCAR was a partnership with Wal-Mart. This means looking at ROAS less directly for direct sales through the website. 17:35 Sean is unapologetic about sharing wins and addressing competition from big brands of toilet paper players like Royal and Charmin. 20:00 Sean loves getting involved with billboards and out of home, including the virality of online presence. Sign up for Chris' weekly newsletter https://chrismeade.beehiiv.com/subscribe (Cross Commerce) here, and connect with him on https://twitter.com/chrismeadej (Twitter) and https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjmeade/ (Linkedin). Chris Meade is the co-founder & CMO of CROSSNET, the world's first four-way volleyball game. Chris was honored with Forbes 30U30 for the 2021 Sports category. CROSSNET combines elements of the childhood game four square and volleyball in a competitive game to 11, win by 2. CROSSNET is now available at 3000+ retail stores such as Walmart, Target, DICKS, Academy Sports, Sam's Club and 20+ other retailers.

The conversation starts with summer redfish habits and patterns, then moves into what to look for and where to look, and finishes with what baits to throw and techniques specific for high water temperatures.  

The flats around Harkers Island present wonderful opportunities for shallow water targets, and this episode goes into detail on seasons, planning, terminal tackle, and transitional zones and structure. Our Guest: Capt. Tommy Sports Sports Fishing Adventures https://sportsfishingadventures.com/1.252.515.2066 Made Possible By: Marine Warehouse Center https://www.marinewarehousecenter.com/ Bland Landscaping Company https://blandlandscaping.com/company/... Academy Sports https://www.academy.com/ Sponsorship Inquiries: billy@fishermanspost.com

Ken Hicks, CEO of Academy Sports and Outdoors, discusses a record quarter for the company's earnings as consumers maintain the outdoor hobbies they discovered during the pandemic . Hosts: Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec. Producer: Paul Brennan. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com