Podcasts about Alvi

Abbas Alvi, an Indian Australian, was honoured with the NSW Government Community Service Award during National Volunteer Week this year. Known for his volunteer work assisting migrants, Mr Alvi has been involved in numerous initiatives. As a community leader, he actively participates in various associations to promote peace and social cohesion. Additionally, he serves as the President of "We Australians are Creative," a community art organisation, where he supports aspiring artists.

In this riveting conversation, we delve into the transformative power of embracing uncertainty, the liberating realization that control is an illusion, and the profound impact of authenticity on our lives and relationships. Through candid discussions and personal insights, we explore the challenges and rewards of letting go of societal expectations, the fear of judgment, and the pursuit of a predefined path. Our guest, Sophie, shares her journey of self-discovery, shedding light on the creative and expressive freedom that arises when we dare to be ourselves, unapologetically. This episode is a must-listen for anyone yearning to break free from the constraints of convention, rediscover their true selves, and navigate life's uncertainties with grace and resilience. Join us as we uncover the underlying theme of authenticity that weaves through every topic, inviting you to embark on your own journey of self-reclamation and genuine expression. Check out Life Unpotted! https://www.livelifeunpotted.com/ 00:00:00 - Episode introduction and theme of uncertainty and lack of control. [00:00:37] - Discussion on the illusion of control and how it relates to personal suffering. [00:01:15] - Introduction of the guest, Sophie, and the mention of the "Life Unpotted" podcast. [00:02:23] - Exploration of authenticity and the challenge of not knowing what to do next. [00:03:56] - The creative process and letting go of learned behaviors to express oneself authentically. [00:05:29] - The significance of being oneself in conveying information and the impact of preparation. [00:07:26] - Reflections on the retreat experience and the transformative power of community. [00:09:08] - The role of preparation and facing fears in personal expression and growth. [00:11:08] - Moving and the emotional journey of changing one's life direction. [00:13:32] - The impact of the environment on mentality and the choice between control and uncertainty. [00:15:36] - Discussion on changing one's environment and mentality for personal growth. [00:17:44] - The balance between preparation and allowing oneself to be in the moment. [00:20:31] - Personal anecdotes on facing and overcoming anxiety and uncertainty. [00:23:04] - The definition of trauma and its relation to experiences outside of one's control zone. [00:25:38] - Realizations about family dynamics and the process of healing from past conflicts. [00:28:34] - The concept of time and its role in personal growth and self-perception. [00:31:51] - The philosophical discussion on self, control, and the nature of being. [00:34:59] - The paradox of self-improvement and the inherent completeness of being. [00:38:20] - Social dynamics, authenticity, and the impact on personal and external perceptions. [00:41:57] - Reflections on life choices, societal expectations, and the journey towards authenticity. [00:45:19] - Exploring the role of self-trust and faith in navigating life's uncertainties. [00:48:58] - The transformative effect of embracing one's true self on personal relationships and society. [00:52:43] - The illusion of separation and the interconnectedness of all experiences. [00:56:38] - The impact of personal change on societal norms and structures. [01:01:09] - Personal stories of transformation and the power of vulnerability. [01:04:51] - The liberating realization of non-separation and the universal nature of experience. [01:08:33] - Concluding thoughts on the journey of self-discovery and the essence of being.

O programa é produzido e apresentado pelos acadêmicos de Jornalismo da Universidade Franciscana.

In this episode, Shana is in conversation with Moneeza Ahmed and Zoha Alvi, co-organisers of Pakistan's women's march, the Aurat March. Moneeza and Zoha share their candid, very  personal, journeys to feminism. They also talk about how the Aurat March came about, what role Aurat March plays in Pakistani society and those incredible, revolutionary, posters and slogans that have fired up the conversation about a woman's place in Pakistani society.    Follow Aurat March on Instagram @auratmarch   The artist whose work is featured in the cover art is Saamiya Arif.    CREDITS: Host and Creative Director: Shana  This is a Maed in India production Head of Production: Mae Mariyam Thomas Project Manager: Shaun Fanthome Producer: Ruchi Sawardekar Sound Editor & Mix Engineer: Kartik Kulkarni, Lakshman Parsuram

Join us for an enlightening episode as we delve into the intricate dynamics of religious harmony within a multicultural society. In this thought-provoking discussion, we welcome Maulana Saleem Alvi. Through insightful commentary and personal anecdotes, Maulana Saleem Alvi offers profound insights into the importance of fostering understanding and respect among diverse religious communities. Drawing from his extensive experience and wisdom, he shares practical strategies for promoting peace and unity amidst religious diversity. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on navigating religious differences, fostering mutual respect, and building bridges across cultural divides. Whether you're interested in societal harmony, interfaith relations, or simply seeking inspiration for promoting tolerance and coexistence, this podcast promises to enrich your understanding and empower you to contribute positively to our multicultural world.

In this episode we talk about the laws of inheritance in Islam, and also discuss the concerns of a regular Muslim as a whole.

In this episode I have our guest Maulana Saleem Alvi who talks about the various aspects of bringing up children.

In Episode 1556, Sean Woodley is joined by Asad Alvi (Prose & Claws, @Swarlayzers) to recap the Toronto Raptors' 105-96 loss to the Boston Celtics on Monday night in a game that saw the Raptors turn in one of their best defensive efforts in weeks, only to be undone by one of the worst three-point shooting nights they've ever had. Off the top, Sean and Asad dig into what they noticed from the defense as they did a great job preventing Boston from getting much of anything inside the arc, flashed some strong help-and-recover defense, and cleaned up the defensive glass at an impressive rate. Next, they dig into what went wrong on offense beyond a simple cold shooting night, and examine why zone defenses have given the Raptors some problems in their last two outings against the Jazz and Celtics. Lastly, they run through The Good (Jontay Porter's play in his first start, RJ Barrett's cutting) The Bad (the bricks, Scottie Barnes and Pascal Siakam's wing defense) and The Hmmmm (Jalen McDaniels, Jontay getting benched after just 10 seconds of second half playing time) to round out the show.Discord link: https://discord.gg/F5eVKs8kSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Jase MedicalEmpower yourself when you purchase a Jase Case, providing you with a personal supply of 5 antibiotics that treat 50+ infections. Get yours today at jasemedical.com and use code LOCKEDON to get $20 off your order.LinkedInLinkedIn Jobs helps you find the qualified candidates you want to talk to, faster. Post your job for free at LinkedIn.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Terms and conditions apply.eBay MotorsFor parts that fit, head to eBay Motors and look for the green check. Stay in the game with eBay Guaranteed Fit at eBayMotos.com. Let's ride. eBay Guaranteed Fit only available to US customers. Eligible items only. Exclusions apply. BetterHelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Make your brain your friend, with BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA today to get 10% off your first month.PrizePicksGo to PrizePicks.com/lockedonnba and use code lockedonnba for a first deposit match up to $100!GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase.FanDuelRight now, NEW customers get ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY in BONUS BETS – GUARANTEED when you place a FIVE DOLLAR BET. Visit FanDuel.com/LOCKEDON to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Episode 1556, Sean Woodley is joined by Asad Alvi (Prose & Claws, @Swarlayzers) to recap the Toronto Raptors' 105-96 loss to the Boston Celtics on Monday night in a game that saw the Raptors turn in one of their best defensive efforts in weeks, only to be undone by one of the worst three-point shooting nights they've ever had. Off the top, Sean and Asad dig into what they noticed from the defense as they did a great job preventing Boston from getting much of anything inside the arc, flashed some strong help-and-recover defense, and cleaned up the defensive glass at an impressive rate. Next, they dig into what went wrong on offense beyond a simple cold shooting night, and examine why zone defenses have given the Raptors some problems in their last two outings against the Jazz and Celtics. Lastly, they run through The Good (Jontay Porter's play in his first start, RJ Barrett's cutting) The Bad (the bricks, Scottie Barnes and Pascal Siakam's wing defense) and The Hmmmm (Jalen McDaniels, Jontay getting benched after just 10 seconds of second half playing time) to round out the show. Discord link: https://discord.gg/F5eVKs8k Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Jase Medical Empower yourself when you purchase a Jase Case, providing you with a personal supply of 5 antibiotics that treat 50+ infections. Get yours today at jasemedical.com and use code LOCKEDON to get $20 off your order. LinkedIn LinkedIn Jobs helps you find the qualified candidates you want to talk to, faster. Post your job for free at LinkedIn.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Terms and conditions apply. eBay Motors For parts that fit, head to eBay Motors and look for the green check. Stay in the game with eBay Guaranteed Fit at eBayMotos.com. Let's ride. eBay Guaranteed Fit only available to US customers. Eligible items only. Exclusions apply.  BetterHelp This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Make your brain your friend, with BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA today to get 10% off your first month. PrizePicks Go to PrizePicks.com/lockedonnba and use code lockedonnba for a first deposit match up to $100! Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. FanDuel Right now, NEW customers get ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY in BONUS BETS – GUARANTEED when you place a FIVE DOLLAR BET. Visit FanDuel.com/LOCKEDON to get started. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Winters! Its a whole different time isnt it. Fun, if you're a winter person like me. The jitters. The blankets. The clothes. I read this ghazal and got a real wintry feeling. Sharing it with you. Do let me know your thoughts at aamir@urdudaan.in --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/urdudaan/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/urdudaan/support

1:39 - Chef Alvi discusses his journey through the food service industry from a curious 9 year old in his kitchen to his current position as Corporate Chef at Unilever6:10  - Chef Alvi explains his various day to day responsibilities at Unilever and how it differs from other Chef positions. 10:21 - Chef Jeff and Chef Alvi discuss their perspective on some of the major innovations in food and technology in the kitchen. 14:28 - Chef Jeff and Chef Alvi give their take on plant based foods and its place in the kitchen.21:00 - Chef Jeff and Chef Alvi discuss equipment in the kitchen, the future of robots in food service, and how equipment can help chefs do their jobs better. 26:14 - Recipe Development - Chef Jeff and Chef Alvi talk about how they go about creating and cataloging recipes. 32:53 - Chef Alvi gives his advice to aspiring chefs. 38:00 - In the Weeds - Rapid Fire Questions for Chef Alvi (most unique ingredient he's cooked with, favorite piece of equipment and Chef Alvi's best kitchen tip and trick for the kitchen.  41:40 - Where to find Chef Alvi and Chef Alvi shares a gift with Chef Jeff.  Follow Jeff:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@FellIntoFoodLinkedin: linkedin.com/company/fell-into-foodInstagram: http://instagram.com/fell_into_foodFacebook: https://facebook.com/fellintofoodFellintoFood.com

Maleeha Alvi is a Soltions Business Development Architect with Schneider Electric. 

Karš nav īsts, bet ļoti sens. Šo Ernesta Veldres un citu klausītāju atsūtītās mīklas Greizajos ratos min Albātu ģimene Dobelē: mamma Maija, tētis Jānis ar bērniem: Dāvi (13 gadi), Jāni (11 gadi), Lāsmu (10 gadi), Alvi (8 gadi) un Filipu (7 gadi).

In this episode we will talk about the reasons behind families breaking up. Especially as the divorce rate has increased.

Hashing It Out host Elisha Owusu Akyaw hosts Moheeth Alvi, group product manager at Coinbase Advanced, for an in-depth discussion about pro traders in the cryptocurrency space. Alvi explains what to look out for when targeting pro traders from an exchange's perspective and breaks down all there is to know about Coinbase Advanced. Follow Cointelegraph on Twitter: @CointelegraphFollow the host on Twitter: @ghcryptoguy, or connect with him on LinkedIn: Elisha (GhCryptoGuy)Cointelegraph's website: cointelegraph.comThe views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this podcast are its participants' alone and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions of Cointelegraph. This podcast (and any related content) is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, nor should it be taken as such. Everyone must do their own research and make their own decisions. The podcast's participants may or may not own any of the assets mentioned.Follow Cointelegraph on Twitter: @CointelegraphFollow the host on Twitter: @ghcryptoguy, or connect with him on LinkedIn: Elisha (GhCryptoGuy)Cointelegraph's website: cointelegraph.comThe views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this podcast are its participants' alone and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions of Cointelegraph. This podcast (and any related content) is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, nor should it be taken as such. Everyone must do their own research and make their own decisions. The podcast's participants may or may not own any of the assets mentioned.

Alvi claims he did not sign bills amending the Official Secrets Act and the Army Act, which have been criticized for curbing freedom of expression and political participation in Pakistan.

In this episode, Amber and Uzair talk about the latest developments out of Islamabad, where President Arif Alvi has set off a firestorm. We also talked about the heinous violence against minorities in Pakistan and about Amber's recent trip to Quetta.   Share your comments and feedback with us in the comments section or by tweeting at us @uzairyounus and @amberrshamsi.   Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:20 Alvi's recent actions 20:26 PTM arrests 28:20 Attacks against minorities 31:40 Takeaways from Quetta 36:11 Latest on elections 40:05 Winners and losers

WORLD: Alvi dissolves Pakistan's parliament | August 11, 2023Subscribe to The Manila Times Channel - https://tmt.ph/YTSubscribe Visit our website at https://www.manilatimes.net Follow us: Facebook - https://tmt.ph/facebook Instagram - https://tmt.ph/instagram Twitter - https://tmt.ph/twitter DailyMotion - https://tmt.ph/dailymotion Subscribe to our Digital Edition - https://tmt.ph/digital Check out our Podcasts: Spotify - https://tmt.ph/spotify Apple Podcasts - https://tmt.ph/applepodcasts Amazon Music - https://tmt.ph/amazonmusic Deezer: https://tmt.ph/deezer Stitcher: https://tmt.ph/stitcherTune In: https://tmt.ph/tunein#TheManilaTimes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

*) Ecuador's presidential candidate shot dead after campaign rally Ecuadorian presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio has been shot dead after holding a rally in Quito. President Guillermo Lasso confirmed Villavicencio's death in a statement on social media, vowing that "this crime will not go unpunished." The 59-year-old centrist was one of eight candidates in the first round of the presidential election scheduled for August 20. *) ​​Wildfires engulf Hawaii, killing multiple people and displacing many A wildfire tore through the heart of Maui with alarming speed and ferocity, destroying dozens of homes and businesses in a historic tourist town of the US state of Hawaii. The fire killed at least six people and injured at least two dozen others, forcing panicked residents to jump into the ocean to flee the flames. It was widespread in Lahaina Town, including on Front Street, a popular shopping and dining area, County of Maui spokesperson Mahina Martin said. *) UN concerned over deplorable living conditions of Niger's president UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed concern over the reportedly deplorable conditions that Niger's president and his family are living under while in arbitrary detention. A UN spokesperson issued a statement following reports that Mohamed Bazoum and his family are living without electricity, water, food or medicine. Guterres once again called for his immediate, unconditional release and his reinstatement as head of state. *) Pakistan president dissolves parliament on advice of prime minister Pakistan's President Arif Alvi has dissolved the country's parliament on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the President's Office said. Alvi signed the advice half an hour after it was sent by Sharif late on Wednesday night, paving the way for a caretaker setup that will hold general elections. The federal Cabinet automatically stood dissolved following the signing of the summary. Sharif will continue to serve as acting prime minister until the caretaker premier takes an oath. *) Biden restricts US investments in Chinese technology President Joe Biden has signed an executive order that would block and regulate high-tech US-based investments in China. The order covers advanced computer chips, microelectronics, quantum information technologies, and artificial intelligence. Senior administration officials said that the effort stemmed from national security goals, rather than economic interests and that the categories it covered were narrow in scope.

In Episode 1446, Sean Woodley is joined by Asad Alvi (Prose & Claws, Yahoo! Sports Canada) to chat about the latest noise around Toronto Raptors star Pascal Siakam, whether the Raptors would be a fit for Tyler Herro in a theoretical three-team Damian Lillard trade with the Portland Trail Blazers and the Miami Heat, and their final Summer League takeaways. Off the top, they chat about the Siakam stalemate which doesn't seem much closer to a resolution after the weekend, what the best path forward for the Raptors is with Siakam, and Asad's interesting split-the-difference trade that could land the Raptors Damian Lillard while hanging on to Scottie Barnes. Next, they chat about the latest rumours from Mike Scotto of HoopsHype about Tyler Herro and the Raptors' potential interest in sneaking into the Damian Lillard trade to land Herro as a third team. Is Herro what the Raptors need? Lastly, they chat about their final thoughts from a mostly uneventful Raptors Summer League campaign that left both of them feeling pretty good about the Gradey Dick selection. Check out Asad and Imman Adan's new Substack newlsetter Prose & Claws! https://proseandclaws.substack.com/p/coming-soon?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=qu0od And be sure to join the Locked On Raptors Discord server to hang out with Raptors sickos just like you! https://discord.gg/bc2RqxMZ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks First time users can receive a 100% instant deposit match up to $100 with promo code LOCKEDON. That's PrizePicks.com – promo code; LOCKEDON FanDuel Make Every Moment More. Don't miss the chance to get your No Sweat First Bet up to TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in Bonus Bets when you go FanDuel.com/LOCKEDON. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Episode 1446, Sean Woodley is joined by Asad Alvi (Prose & Claws, Yahoo! Sports Canada) to chat about the latest noise around Toronto Raptors star Pascal Siakam, whether the Raptors would be a fit for Tyler Herro in a theoretical three-team Damian Lillard trade with the Portland Trail Blazers and the Miami Heat, and their final Summer League takeaways. Off the top, they chat about the Siakam stalemate which doesn't seem much closer to a resolution after the weekend, what the best path forward for the Raptors is with Siakam, and Asad's interesting split-the-difference trade that could land the Raptors Damian Lillard while hanging on to Scottie Barnes. Next, they chat about the latest rumours from Mike Scotto of HoopsHype about Tyler Herro and the Raptors' potential interest in sneaking into the Damian Lillard trade to land Herro as a third team. Is Herro what the Raptors need? Lastly, they chat about their final thoughts from a mostly uneventful Raptors Summer League campaign that left both of them feeling pretty good about the Gradey Dick selection.Check out Asad and Imman Adan's new Substack newlsetter Prose & Claws! https://proseandclaws.substack.com/p/coming-soon?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=qu0odAnd be sure to join the Locked On Raptors Discord server to hang out with Raptors sickos just like you! https://discord.gg/bc2RqxMZSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksFirst time users can receive a 100% instant deposit match up to $100 with promo code LOCKEDON. That's PrizePicks.com – promo code; LOCKEDONFanDuelMake Every Moment More. Don't miss the chance to get your No Sweat First Bet up to TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in Bonus Bets when you go FanDuel.com/LOCKEDON.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alvi Syahrin: https://www.instagram.com/alvisyhrn Subscribe Channel YouTube-ku di: https://www.youtube.com/@zahidibr Follow Instagram-ku di: https://www.instagram.com/zahidibr

Join renowned poet and literary critic Farhat Ehsas on the Rekhta Podcast as he delves into the captivating world of poet Mohammad Alvi. In this episode, Ehsas unravels the layers of Alvi's poetic brilliance, discussing his unique themes, masterful craft, and profound impact on Urdu literature. Through personal anecdotes and insightful analysis, Ehsas sheds light on Alvi's poetic journey, highlighting his contributions to the literary canon. This episode offers a mesmerizing exploration of Alvi's artistry, showcasing his ability to evoke emotions and transcend boundaries through the power of words.

Are you ready to laugh your way through this hilarious episode with the amazing Jaclyn Marfuggi? Join us as we explore the trauma that made her funny, how her Italian heritage has shaped her comedic style, and her experience as the female emcee at Magic Mike Live. You won't want to miss the infamous meatball contest, monochromatic suits, and the story of Jaclyn showing up to perform her standup routine only to find that Melissa Gorgia, from the Real Housewives of New Jersey, was wearing the same outfit! We also dive into the wild night that was BravoCon Eve, discussing the personalities present and reflecting on our admiration for Brittany, Jackie Goldsneider. Don't miss out on our thoughts about how cool and kind Dolores, Frank, and Chris Manzo were, as well as our crush on Alvi. Finally, we delve into the complexities of the Gemini-Scorpio relationship, as Jaclyn is a June 14th Gemini and Tommy is a Scorpio. Learn about the importance of lucky numbers in Jaclyn's life and her upcoming Vegas shows. Plus, hear about her plans to stay at the Chateau Marmont with her sister, Sharia. You don't want to miss this fun and insightful conversation with the incredible Jaclyn Marfuggi!

Follow me: Facebook: fb.me/xabionly Twitter: twitter.com/xabionly Youtube: youtube.com/xabionly Mixcloud: mixcloud.com/xabionly Instagram: instagram.com/xabionly TRACKLIST: https://1001.tl/1rchb9d9 Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4STV7DPVgwI4ntvi1sQvjh?si=CU6lCNZcRkKiZytdXaI5TQ TRACKLIST: 01. Ayko - Soldier [LANGHEWOOD] 02. Kryder - Eye Of Ra [ARMADA] 03. KDH - Beginning [CHILL PLANET] 04. Plastik Funk - Boom Boom [HYSTERIA] 05. G-Sus & ZNZBR - Desire (Want Me 2) [INTENSITY] 06. Retrika, Alex Mueller & Alvi vs. Avicii & RAS - NFT & The Nights (XABI ONLY Edit) 07. Melsen, Abi Flynn - Hidden Signs [BE YOURSELF] 08. Robby East - Center Of Gravity 09. Avenue One - Vega (L.GU. Remix) [RELEASE DEEP] 10. Akon - Smack That (Achilles & Mariline Remix) 11. Jake Fill & R3PRO & Rhyan - The Future [LEGION] 12. KILL SCRIPT & EDDIE ft. Grabbitz - TORN OPEN [ARMADA] 13. Hel:sløwed & That Girl - Hold Onto This [ASOT] 14. Michael Roman - When The Sun Goes Down [HOLYSPIRIT] 15. 22Bullets - Like In Africa [REVEALED] 16. Dada Life - Fun Fun Fun (Sputniq Remix) 17. Plastik Funk & Esox - On The Floor [HYSTERIA] 18. Everything But The Girl - Missing (Sonny Noto Remix) 19. Mark Sixma & Achilles - I Don't Care [CRASH & SMILE] [PROMO OF THE WEEK] 20. Plastik Funk & Never Sleep - Closer [HYSTERIA] 21. Vluarr - Higher (DJ Siar Remix) [STMPD] 22. Plastik Funk & Esox - Ravers & Parties [HYSTERIA] 23. Dimitri Vegas, MOGUAI & Like Mike - Mammoth (Chasner Remix) 24. Ruben de Ronde & Crowd+Ctrl feat. 88Birds - Oxygen [ASOT] 25. David Guetta & MORTEN - Lost In The Rhythm [FUTURE RAVE] [TRACK OF THE WEEK] 26. Max Robinson vs. Avicii & Sandro Cavazza - New Hope Without You (XABI ONLY Edit) 27. Breathe Carolina - Dimensions [SPINNIN] 28. Tiësto X Mathame - Feel Your Ghost [ASTRALWERKS] 29. Matt Fortress - Little Closer [REVEALED RADAR] 30. Lion & Jasted - Right Now [FONK] 31. MR.BLACK, Eden Shalev - Papi [HYBIT] 32. t e s t p r e s s - i just wanna go [ARMADA] [RELEASE OF THE WEEK] 33. Dr Phunk ft. Maikki - Blow The Speakers [REVEALED] 34. W&W & VINAI - Gangster [RAVE CULTURE]

I could not sleep yesterday night .. was feeling some heaviness inside me .. like something breaking .. in the morning at around 5 ' o ' clock i picked up a collection of Md Alvi's poem and started reading them to myself .. i recorded this poem in my phone . The picture which I've used is of Rock beach , Pondy . It is the same place where the iconic song Aawarapan Banjarapan was shot . The song too strangely depicts toxic loneliness which matches with the mood of the poem . So happy to inform all my esteemed listeners that this podcast has now more than over 20,000 plays globally ( in more than a hundred countries ) . I have just one dream .. to touch the lives of a million people before death touches me . I'm glad this podcast is helping me do that . Cheers Soz ♥️

Meet one of my dear friends, Jen Alvi, in todays episode. She shares several great tidbits that have helped her in her mixed faith relationships. We discussed the Marco Polo group that we are a part of. If you are interested, email me chrisrichcoaching@gmail.com and I can add you to our group. During our discussion she shares the following resources: Marriage On A Tightrope I was a guest on their podcast. Click here to listen. Listen, Learn & Love Jody Moore Better Than Happy Patrick Mason (Author)

Would you like to have a book you write turned into a movie or TV show? This week, Michael Jamin explores this topic on his podcast. Check it out!Show NotesMichael's Online Screenwriting Course - https://michaeljamin.com/courseFree Screenwriting Lesson - https://michaeljamin.com/freeJoin My Watchlist - https://michaeljamin.com/watchlistAutogenerated TranscriptMichael Jamin (00:00):Write about what? You can make it really well written. The more personal, the more interesting it'll be. I think a lot of people think if I make it personal, I'm narrowing my audience. You know, I'm because of my, but no, you're actually making, you're making your audience specific and you're actually, that's what's so interesting to get a glimpse in someone's life like that. You're listening to Screenwriters Need to Hear This with Michael Jamin. Hey everyone, welcome back to Screenwriters. Need to hear this, the podcast where we're branching out. We're talking about other things not even that are only also the screenwriters need to hear in other areas. What am I talking about Phil? Phil? I don't know. Talking.Phil Hudson (00:40):We're talking about a lot of things. I think you've got a breadth of knowledge. And I think this is a topic that, although it may not be directly related to screenwriting, even though it kind of is tangentially, I think it still applies to writers, which I think, yeah, all of us are thinking about medium, just not just tv, but we're thinking of otherMichael Jamin (00:55):Things. So today we're talking about how do I sell the movie writes to my book cuz people ask me this question a lot on social media and you know, everyone writes a book wants to write a and, and most people I ask, you know, like, whoa, well, is your book a is, you know, who's publishing it? And it's so often it's self-published, which is okay, that's fine. But it's, it seems like it could be a, a very ego-driven question. They're like, how do I, they're asking, how do I sell my book as a movie so that I can become a screenwriter and I can make a lot of money? It's, that's what they're asking. How do I make a lot of money the easy way or something. Mm-Hmm. . And obviously no one really cares. Like what, you know, what you want the, if you wanna sell something, you gotta give the buyer what they want, which I've said over and over again.(01:39):And so I think a better question is asking, what do studios look for when optioning the rights for a book? And that's, you know, that's a whole different question. And what they're looking that way, you can give them what they want. If you ask the right question, you could give the studio what they want instead of saying, how do I sell you my book? And so what they're looking for in my experience is they're looking for a New York Times bestseller. They're looking for a well-written book with a built-in audience. They're looking for you know, for example the movie I just, the, the show I just watched Fleischman Isn't In Trouble, right? That was based on a bestselling book. And, and, and so that's how it became a TV show. And that's how so many projects become, movies are based on books, but the books were hit books.(02:28):They were bestselling books. They had a built-in audience because the studio knows that people are gonna wanna go see the movie when it comes out. They recognize the name of the book, they're gonna wanna see it, even if it gets ruined as a movie, they're like, oh, okay, I'll go, I'll sample it. At the very least, same thing with a television show. It'll be turned into something else. Maybe, maybe it'll be better, maybe it'll be worse, but at least people will know about it. It'll be it'd be easy to market. And that's all it's about. It's about marketing, it's about money. And marketing is such a, a big battle. It's like, you know, these invest a lot of money into a TV show, into a movie. And it's, they're not looking for the best written or the, you know, they're not looking, if that were the case, it would be nonstop Shakespeare, because that's free and public.(03:13):It's in the public domain. They can make all these, I think it's, it must be in the public domain. They can make Shakespeare o over and over. There'd be the channel running nonstop. Shakespeare, the guy wrote, I don't know, something like 30 something plays. Why not just do Shakespeare all the time? It couldn't be better written. Because it's marketability. No one wants to watch Shakespeare, unfortunately. . So it's, it's why do they wanna watch? So, and I think a lot of people are gonna say, yeah, but okay, you're telling me now to write a best a New York Times bestseller? That's too hard. You're damn right is hard. I, oh yeah. Did you think any of it was gonna be easy? Yeah, for sure. But if you can make something that has a built-in audience, and it doesn't even have to be a bestseller. It just has, it could have a huge following on social media.(03:54):It could have, but it has to be easy to market. So here's what you need, in my opinion, the book has to be well-written and it has to find its audience. And you don't have control over the second part, really. You, but you do have control over the first part. You can make it well-written. And so the only thing you have control over, once again, is your writing is how good your writing is. But people don't wanna focus on that, even though that's the only thing they have control over. They'd rather focus on, how do I sell it? You know, how do I make money? How do I get on the best sellers list? How do you just focus on the only thing you have control over? We don't have control either. Either start. And then a lot of people, of course, feel like they don't have time.(04:33):And I'm inspired by the, the movie made. I mean, it was a big, it was, it was a little bit wild ago, but Stephanie Landro wrote this movie Made, and she wrote about her life, her life as a young single mother fleeing in abusive relationship. And she had to work as a maid, as a cleaning woman to get by. And so, you know, that's not fair that she had to do that. That's not fair. But she turned it into gold. , she turned her a horrible experience into gold. And then I think a lot of people were gonna say, well, yeah, but she had an interesting life to write about. My life is boring. That's not fair. Like, I, I like, okay, I don't know. It's not fair that she wasn't abused. That you weren't abused. And she was . You know, I don't think she saw it that way. .(05:19):and so, yeah, I mean, but this way I say right about write about what you can make it really well written. The more personal, the more interesting it'll be. I think a lot of people think if I make it personal, I'm narrowing my audience. You know, I'm because of my, but no, you're actually making, you're making your audience specific and you're actually, that's what's so interesting to get a glimpse in someone's life like that. And then some people of course say, well, I'm too busy to write a New York Times bestseller. Well, that's, that's good. It's good that you're busy. You have something in that means you probably have an interesting life that you can write about. If you're, if you're not busy, you're boring. You're not doing anything. Have nothing to write about. So make yourself busy. Take notes, and then start writing about it.(06:01):Get, you know, open your mind to offer the opportunities and start writing about it. Put yourself as a fish outta water in whatever opportunity it is. Write about it, because that's always interesting. Yeah, that, that, that's just my advice. That's my advice. And I be, and I, and by the way, I've been involved in many projects where a studio says they'll buy the rights to the book and they'll seek writers to, Hey, do you wanna develop this into a TV show or a movie, or whatever. And sometimes the answer is yes, and sometimes no. But there are people in development that we call it, and they're looking for books to option the rights to, that's their job. That's all they do. So you don't have to find them. They'll find you and they find you, if, if it has a big enough splash, if your book is made a splash, they'll come out for, they'll come seeking you. So you don't have to raise your hand. They, they're looking for you.Phil Hudson (06:55):Yeah. Immediately comes up in The Martian, right by,Michael Jamin (06:58):Yeah. The MartianPhil Hudson (06:59):Right, was a seriesMichael Jamin (07:00):That was self-published. BlogPhil Hudson (07:01):Series. Series of blog posts. He was just publishing on a regular cadence on his website mm-hmm. . And it generated enough attention because the storytelling was so good that it compiled it and put it out.Michael Jamin (07:11):Well, he, he compiled it as a, as a, as his own book. He, he self-published and then it became a hit, right?Phil Hudson (07:16):Yep, yep. But it was a, it had a huge following on the blog, just people were looking forward to reading this thing. And then he put it out so,Michael Jamin (07:24):Well, there's a guy who built something and so everyone's asking for permission. How do I sell? How do I, and he wasn't asking for permission, he was just doing it. He put something good out there, and then people, you know, like fill the dreams. If you build it, they will come. He puts something great out there, and people came. Now, they don't always come, but if it's great, you have a higher chance of people coming than if it's, if it's bad. I think we agree on that.Phil Hudson (07:46):Yeah, absolutely. I think he you know, I think they, like, he was in negotiations on the contract and it was like getting past, and Ridley Scott said he wanted to make the movie mm-hmm. . And so he was like, oh. He's like, well, I don't know if I can make it cuz I'm, I'm worked. We still had his job. And he'd sold the rights to that because he's still riding in away, still riding, still working on other stuff. But he also has like a whole series of like shorts. And for, you know, I remember my friend Alvi, who is he's like a head of development at a pretty well known company, you know, production company out here in LA now. He did a short on Andy, we are and apologies if I'm pronouncing your name wrong, Andy Andy, we short story that he made free to students to make without any needing permission. And it was just stuff he'd had written prior to that.Michael Jamin (08:37):Right. And then some students made it andPhil Hudson (08:39):Oh, I was just saying like, he has a list of things, projects you can just go make without having to ask him for permission. And my buddy Avi went and did this. He went and made a short based on one of these projects that he'd already written. But the point is, he already, it wasn't the first thing he'd written. He had written other things. That was the thing that hit. But he had, you know, sharpened his ax, if you will, on other projects mm-hmm. , he'd gotten so good at the craft that that's the one that hit. And he became an overnight success, but he still had probably hundreds of thousands of hours of writing behind him behind that book. Right,Michael Jamin (09:12):Right. It's so interesting though, when people you know, they, they really, they're, they're trying to break down the door to Hollywood. They're trying to, how do I get through the door? And it's like, dude, there's no door and you can open it yourself. You know, , I know this doesn't make any sense, but you could just do whatever you want. Just make it, put it out there. And I know you don't feel like, well, I don't have that kind of money. You could shoot everything on a, on a, on a shoestring budget. You don't need to, you know, raise a ton of money, start small and then work your way up, like, like we're talking about. And so, yeah. I mean, write a book. That's a great way to do it. If you write a book and it's a bestseller, it'll, they'll turn into a movie and they'll ruin your book and you'll, that'll be fine. You'd be happy. .Phil Hudson (09:54):Right. Well, a couple things that came up as you were talking about this, you know, cause the question is like, how do I sell the movie rights to my book? Mm-Hmm. . And what you're saying is you need to have a good product that people want to buy. And this sounds oddly similar to what you talk about when we talk about how do I sell my pilot? Right. Something so good. You can't, it's not indeniable how good it is. And people will back up trucks full of of money for you to take it from you. Yeah. Cuz they want it.Michael Jamin (10:20):But it's interesting when people say like, they, how, how do I turn my book? And then, then you say, well, has anybody read your book? Yeah. Five people bought my book. What, what? Like why would you th why would they want to turn into a movie? Why would any, because you think there's no, I mean, you understand like, there's only so much money that can go around and they're only gonna make so many projects. They're gonna choose the projects that are easiest to get high eyeballs on. They're not looking, they're not looking for your, you know, for, for a script issue. There's tons of scripts in Hollywood. Correct. They're looking to make money.Phil Hudson (10:51):Yeah. So you say that the one thing you have control over is the quality of her writing. Yeah. So let's say I write something amazing and it truly is amazing. Mm-Hmm. and five people are like, this is great and I have no connections to Hollywood and I start putting it out on TikTok and it doesn't go anywhere.Michael Jamin (11:09):Right.Phil Hudson (11:10):Was that, was that worthless?Michael Jamin (11:12):Of course not. I would say, you know, it's interesting exercise and, and growth. I mean, did you enjoy the process? If you didn't enjoy it, then you shouldn't be doing any of this. If you didn't enjoy the writing part, then forget about making money. You're not, you know, what's the point? But, you know, and it's also, and not everything, of course, lends itself to being turned into a movie. It's, if it's not written in a visual way with kind of, that you can imagine with scenes, it's like there's great literature that is not would, it's not, you can't imagine how they would turn it into a movie. It would, it's not easy. So yeah, it's internal and that doesn't mean it's not beautifully written, but it's also hard to, how would you turn it into a movie?Phil Hudson (11:50):Right.Michael Jamin (11:51):And Yeah. And by the way, if there's something which is a giant hit and they go, well, they don't know how to turn into the movie, but the name is worth something, they'll hire a writer to figure it out. I mean, take like even Maurice Sandeck where the Wild Things Are, which I thought spike Jones directed it. Like I thought the, his adaptation, cuz the book is whatever, 20 pages long, there's not much there. It's like, it's a children's book. So there's 18 lines, there's not a lot there. How do you turn that into an hour and a half movie? And so he really developed it. I thought he did a beautiful job with it. And so you'll, they'll, you know, but that was sold because everyone knew the name. There was nothing in the book. There wasn't enough in the book to turn into a movie.Phil Hudson (12:32):No. That was a, a very successful children's book that I remember reading when I was young.Michael Jamin (12:36):Right. So it had a built-in audience. There's a ton of people who, whatPhil Hudson (12:39):Awards, people loved it.Michael Jamin (12:41):Yeah.Phil Hudson (12:42):I find that this kind of leads to the question of how do you build an audience? It's kind of the question that comes from this, right? Because what you're saying is you can control the quality. You can't control the built-in audience. Yeah. But my background as a marketer would dictate that that's not actually true anymore. That you can build an audience.Michael Jamin (13:01):Yeah. I mean the, the, the world has changed. The social media's changed the game. It's changed the game so fast that I think publishers are struggling. Traditional publishers are struggling to, to to, to stay relevant because you, you know, you don't need them anymore. Yeah. You know, people can do it on their own. Yeah. All of this can be done. It's a great leveler and for little money. So again, and this is, it's a similar thing with, with the publishing industry. It's like they're looking for projects to buy for books that they think they can sell. Not necessarily books that are, are well-written or whatever. It's like, can we make money from this? It's a business. I understand that. You everyone should understand that. But, but you people don't really need 'em anymore. That's what's the great thing about indie publishing and self-publishing. There's so much resources out there, and you can make your own book for next to nothing and you can figure out how to market. And there are people like you who have podcasts who talk about this, about marketing and how to get your stuff out there.Phil Hudson (14:00):Yeah. Okay. So, so what we, we know is we have to, we have to come up with a good idea. We have to be able to write and execute that good idea. That's what we've talked about that plenty nauseum on our podcast, right? Yeah. In the past. It's not the idea, it's the execution of the idea.Michael Jamin (14:17):And Yeah. You don't even need a good Yeah. You didn't Okay. That you don't even need a great idea. You just need a good idea.Phil Hudson (14:21):Good execution. Great execution. Good idea. Good idea.Michael Jamin (14:24):Good job. Yeah.Phil Hudson (14:25):Okay. So we've got those. We know that there are plenty of resources online for marketing and to learn how to grow an audience online. Mm-Hmm. , there are podcasts, there's YouTube videos, there's courses you can take. The end result for this question is they wanna sell the movie rights to their book. And you, you're saying is that's a roundabout way of being a screenwriter, a roundabout way of becoming a screenwriter. And I think that this static question stems from maybe 10 years ago, the push in Hollywood was I p I P I P I P. Mm-Hmm. . We don't wanna make anything unless s IP behind it. Probably still largely the case. Look at the adaptations that are being made. I think you did that post.Michael Jamin (15:02):So bringing back Frazier, why do they bringing back Frazier? Because it's easy to market,Phil Hudson (15:05):That's all. Yeah. Finns and FERBs got 40 new episodes on Disney.Michael Jamin (15:08):Wow. Okay. Yeah.Phil Hudson (15:10):So, so it's really like double lightning in the bottle, if you will. Right. You want lightning to strike twice in a bottle. This way you not only wanna become a screenwriter, but you want to sell a book to become the screenwriter of that book.Michael Jamin (15:25):Maybe. Yeah.Phil Hudson (15:26):And the odds are, if you write something that good, they may not even ask you to write your book, they would give it to him. Right. Oh, you might get a pass as part of your deal. Yeah. And that's like, go away money, they'll pay you that and then they're gonna hire Yeah. Chief Goldsman or someone else to go write your book.Michael Jamin (15:39):Almost certainly. Or if or if it's a TV show, they'll team you up with a, a showrunner who knows how to turn because it is a different skillset who had to turn the require, how to deliver the requirements of a television show to keep the audience coming back episode after episode. So they'll probably team you up. But yeah, I mean, but at the end of the day, it's just, it's all, it's always just writing. You gotta look, gotta write. The writing has to beMichael Jamin (16:02):Done.Michael Jamin (16:05):Hey, it's Michael Jamin. If you like my videos and you want me to email them to you for free, join my watch list. Every Friday I send out my top three videos. These are for writers, actors, creative types. You can unsubscribe whenever you want. I'm not gonna spam you and it's absolutely free. Just go to michaeljamin.com/watchlist.Phil Hudson (16:30):And we've talked about how to do the good writing, right? Which is, you know, even just one of our q and a or ask me any episodes we talk about craft, it's how do you outline, how do, what is story? Mm-Hmm. , what are the, what are the things every screenwriter, basic things, screenwriting we should know? We talked about a bunch of those things. Yeah. do you feel like the lessons in your course on storytelling in screenwriting carry over to this?Michael Jamin (16:52):Yeah. I mean, I think cuz story at the end of the day story is story. It doesn't matter whether you're putting words on the page or you're putting on a, on a big screen or a small screen. What difference does it make? It's, it's still a story. A comedy's a funny story. Drama is a dramatic story. So so yeah, I mean, it's all, and even as I was doing my, my cl my my personal book paper orchestra, you know, when I, because I'm a TV writer, I think very visually, so as I was writing the each story in it, I'm always thinking about what is the audience imagining? What do I want them to imagine? What do I want the picture? And I don't make them picture more than necessary. Like if there's a scene in a room, I don't have to describe the wallpaper unless I think it's important that they know the wallpaper.(17:37):If not, I can just put 'em in the room, give 'em an image. It's the air is stale and it's dimly lid. And, you know, I could, I don't have to go overboard in describing things that they don't need to know. And then everything I write is about how do I, I I really see things as a television show. And even after I did my show, my one man show, I had a q and a afterwards and people were like, are you gonna turn this into a TV show? I'm like, I dunno, may maybe. But that's not the goal. And I know if it does turn into a TV show, if changes will have to be made. And I kind of don't want to compromise. But on the other hand, I wouldn't mind a big bag of money if they sold, if I sold it.(18:11):But I don't know. It's not, it's not even the intention. The intention was to do something have a creative outlet to do, express myself in a way that I hadn't, which, which is interesting because un as a TV writer, I don't really get to do what I want to do. I very rarely I get to do what I want to do. I'm, I'm playing ball, I'm playing ball to get that paycheck. So this was an opportunity to just write something for me. And that's why I thought, I think it's some of my best work. But, but anyone can, you know, at anyone at home, anyone listening, you can, you can write, you can make, you don't have to. You write what you wanna write. This is the wonderful opportunity. Write your book the way you want it to be written and make, make no compromises.Phil Hudson (18:55):I know a lot of screenwriters who choose prose and storytelling in novel form or book form as an outlet for creative endeavor because they're so mired in the structure and network notes and all that stuff that has to happen.Michael Jamin (19:10):I was talking to my friend Christina, she actually did a, she was a guest on one of these, you know, our podcasts here. And she knows, I'm not gonna mention any names cause this is all thirdhand. But she knew a very successful screenwriter who worked on these franchise movies. Big, big, big franchise movies. And he was making a ton of money and he was miserable because, you know, you're really boxed in, you're getting notes from a thousand different directions cuz they're protective of this franchise characters. And he made a lot of money, but he was miserable. It wasn't a fun experience and it was golden handcuffs. He had a big Hollywood house and it was golden handcuffs. That's all.Phil Hudson (19:48):Yeah. Golden handcuffs for everybody listening or the handcuffs. It's the shackles that binding you, but they're meeting gold, so you can't walk away from, you don't wanna walk away fromMichael Jamin (19:56):'Em. Y yeah. You, you've grown accustomed to the life. You have an expensive house now, now you can't leave. And you're just looking at people like me making a fraction of the money and you're like, and they're and you're jealous. . Yeah, because I don't, I'm not miserable.Phil Hudson (20:09):Mark Madson is the author of the New York Times Best Subtle Art of, of Giving F and everything is f and he's got a bunch of, bunch of that. He had a, a ebook. I found him through like a random audible giveaway for a free audiobook. Mm-Hmm. . And then I would listen to his, I mean this tangentially applies to this conversation, but we list, I got this free audible book that he put out. Then I went to his blog subscribed. Then when his book came out, I bought every book he ever put out because this free piece of content mm-hmm. was so valuable to me. And there's an essay in there where he talks about how it, it's effectively a, a story to tell you that everyone is never satisfied with where they're at. Right. Yeah. He says, you know, you're on the, it's Rio de Janeiro and the guy is there with his girl, his sister, and her friend wondering, why can't I be over there with those guys playing volleyball instead of taking care of my little sister?(21:01):And those guys over there at volleyball were like, man, what would it be like to be that guy with those two cute girls? Right. Right. And then you go to the next one and like everyone's wishing they were somewhere else, doing something else with somebody else. Yeah. And it's just kind of a appreciate where you're at with the process and enjoyed that mm-hmm. that part of the process. Yeah. you mentioned a couple things where we were going through this, through this. I was wondering what you meant by well written and it built an audience and I was like, what does that mean? I, I think you addressed that. You said it's effectively, it's a piece of intellectual property that has a following. There are people who liked it enough that they bought it enough that they believe that they can hedge their bets. Is there anything you want to add to that?Michael Jamin (21:40):No, but I mean, honestly, and like I said, I think it's better if it's well written, but there are, we know of plenty of movies that were not well-written books, but were trashy enough to get a following and return into very successful books and, and, and movies. So it's not necessarily the qualities,Phil Hudson (21:58):The writing three franchises come to mind right now.Michael Jamin (22:01):Yeah. We could all think of. We don't have to bash them, but yeah, there's plenty. I do think it's better if it's well-written, obviously. But you know, there's more to get out of it. But you know, it, it's really about marketing. It's about selling it. So if you have a book, so what, unless you, unless they think they can make money off of it,Phil Hudson (22:18):I think that means you have to go places you don't want to go. And you talk about the maid and Stephanie land, right? Yeah. You said that it's not fair that she had to speak CE and it's also, she might think it's not fair she had to go through all that abuse.Michael Jamin (22:32):Right? Yeah. It's not fair that she had an interesting life and worked as a maid and now gets to sell her her TV rights and get her movie rights and become rich. That's not fairPhil Hudson (22:41):. Right.Michael Jamin (22:42):She wasn't saying that when she was ducking punches.Phil Hudson (22:45):Sure. You know, but you've also mentioned on the podcast that trauma trauma and challenge and the struggle you go through in your life is effectively the gold that you're gonna get. Right. And we've addressed that on many podcasts. We've talked and, and this is for whoever's trying to sell a book or write an interesting screenplay or pilot, you have to go there. You have to be willing to explore the things. You don't wanna look at the emotions you're avoiding. Mm-Hmm. Michael Jamin (23:12):YouPhil Hudson (23:13):When you're procrastinating. It's because there's a feeling you don't want to feel when you feel a really heightened emotion like anger or frustration. It's cuz there's another emotion you don't want to feel. And you're using that to hide those. And the work of being a writer, as I've learned from you and from just life, is you have to go there.Michael Jamin (23:34):Yeah. That'sPhil Hudson (23:35):Your job. You have to explore.Michael Jamin (23:36):If it makes you uncomfortable, don't become a writer, then do something else. Yeah.Phil Hudson (23:40):Yep. YouMichael Jamin (23:40):Know, and you know, someone posted, and I haven't answered this, I was gonna make a video on this so you're getting a sneak peek, but I guess, I don't know if it's true or not, but they, he, this person said that David Lynch said you know, the great filmmaker that he, he won't go into therapy cuz he's worried it'll hurt his art. I don't know if he ever said that or not, but that's what this person said, which strikes me as a load. You know, it's like that's just an excuse not to go into therapy and to study yourself. Cuz if you don't under, if you don't understand yourself, how are you gonna understand characters? How are you gonna understand what those characters are doing? Yeah. If you don't know what you do, what makes you tick and all your, you know, and I, I do think therapy and writing go hand in hand. And I know plenty of writers who are in therapy and is not embarrassing. It's just like, hey, yeah, this is what I'm doing to help me be a b you know, either be a better person, stop hurting myself or stop hurting others.Phil Hudson (24:33):All therapists have their own therapist by the way, becauseMichael Jamin (24:36):Oh, they have to. Yeah.Phil Hudson (24:37):Yeah. Cuz they have to sort through all that stuff they're dealing with. Yeah. My brother is a family counselor, marriage and family counselor graduated from Johns Hopkins and yeah, he, he doesn't ever divulge anything specific, but the stuff he deals with on a daily basis, I have to imagine is insane. Mm-Hmm. and we had a pretty insane childhood. Mm-Hmm. , you know. Right. But he's doing that because he wants to help people sort through the things that we went through as kids. Mm-Hmm. , I'm doing that through story effectively. And my writing took a turn when I realized, oh, I have to help, I have to put this, I have to be honest and I have to serve this story because it's meaningful and it can affect people. That's why I liked TV when I was a kid. That's why I liked film, that's why I liked good books cuz it allowed me to step out of whatever problem I was in and learned lessons about it through a metaphor of story, which is what storytelling is.Michael Jamin (25:31):But also you may think, well, it's just my life. It's not that interesting. You know you know, it's very easy to think my life is not interesting, it's just, I just whatever I had to go through it. But for other people on the outside who didn't have to go through it, it's extremely interesting. And that plays to every single person. Like, you know whatever you were in the Air Force, you did three years in the Air Force you know, and you did it to, you know, get through, pay through college or whatever. That's not interesting for someone who's not in the Air Force. It's very interesting. Yeah. But I didn't fly jets. I just mopped floors. Okay. Let, it's interesting. Tell me about that. You know, tell me what that's like to just mop floors when they're in an aircraft carrier. What's that like? Yeah. You know.Phil Hudson (26:09):Yeah. I don't know. You're dealing with your own stuff there.Michael Jamin (26:13):Know everyone has interesting stuff to tell.Phil Hudson (26:15):Yeah. David Goggins put out a new book. You're familiar with David Goggins?Phil Hudson (26:20):No. Former Navy Seal. He wrote the book can't Hurt Me. He's got another one that just came out recently. Former Navy Seal, former Air Force tried out to be Air Force Special Forces and he was talking the story about janitor who was at West Point cleaning up the floors. Mm-Hmm. . And one of the students finally put together this guy was a medal of honor hero. He, in World War ii, he like charged a machine gun, asked through Grenade mm-hmm. . And he's like, you know, that's a fascinating person. But it's also fascinating to be the guy at West Point discovering that the janitor has a medal of honor. It's the guy you want to be. Right. Yeah. So that stood out to me from what you just said. And I'm blanking on the next thing I was gonna say, so, we'll, I'm sure it'll come to me in aMichael Jamin (27:04):Second. But yeah, whatever life you're living, you know, it doesn't, it's not interesting to you because you have to suffer through it every day. But it's interesting to the rest of us.Phil Hudson (27:12):That's what it was. And I might have mentioned this on the podcast again, I guys, I apologize. We're, we're over here in now, so my brain works way where I remember certain details, very specific details, but I apologize, this is repetitive, but I had an interesting experience where like in one week I had like three friends from high school tell me that they live vicariously with Through me, through you. And I was like, what? And I was like, in my world, it's like, well, I wake up four 30, I do some writing, maybe go to the gym if I feel like it, eat whatever I'm going to eat. Go be a pa, get coffee for people. Right. Go home, do something, go to bed. That's my life. But to them, they're like, you're in Hollywood. Like you're trying, like you're working with movie stars, you're doing all this stuff. Right. And it's just, they wanna know every detail and it's just become monotonous to me cuz it's the same stuff. Yeah.Michael Jamin (28:00):Right. But it's interesting to them. Right. Yeah. And, and that's an interesting story to tell even your point of view of how even though you're not where you want to be, your perspective on Hollywood is interesting now because it's a different, it's just different viewpoint.Phil Hudson (28:12):Sure. You know? Sure. So, so just kinda wrap it up, what I'm hearing you say in the conversation of how to sell movie rights to a book, how to sell a pilot, how to sell a screenplay mm-hmm. , just write something so good. People can't deny it. And that will spread because people will want to share it with other people.Michael Jamin (28:29):Yeah. Right. They'll wanna share it. And so Yeah. Yeah. I it's not the, it's not the easy answer. Everyone wants to hear. Like, they think, oh, isn't is there a list I need to be on? Is there a competition that I need to enter? No. No. Unfortunately, you know, is there a pitch fest? No, there's not a pitch fest, you know. No, it's, it's, it's writing good ,Phil Hudson (28:50):None of that matters. And plenty of those don't go anywhere because the writing's not good still. Yeah.Michael Jamin (28:55):Right. Yeah.Phil Hudson (28:56):Go ahead.Michael Jamin (28:56):Shortcuts, unfortunately. No shortcuts.Phil Hudson (28:59):Awesome. Well just kind of some reminders. Anything else on that before I move to kind of reminders?Michael Jamin (29:05):That's it. Reminders, Phil.Phil Hudson (29:06):Yeah. if you want to tell a good story, two recommendations, and again, these are my recommendations to you individually. Number one, go send it for Michael's course at michaeljamin.com/course where he goes into detail on storytelling. And I absolutely believe it carries over. I think, and we've talked about this as well, people really like this section on personal essay that you talk about. Yeah. Because, and minding your life for stories, which is a mm-hmm. live zoom that you did with students and kind of talked about this and there's expanding on some of the sections in there. It'll help you learn how to make, look at your life and say what is interesting in my life? And that will help with your storytelling in infinitely and exponential. So go do that. If you are just wanting to get your toes what in this and learn a little bit more.(29:49):We talked in previous episodes about your free lesson, michaeljamin.com/free. It's that first lesson you talk about story and what is that definition? Watch list, michaeljamin.com/watchlist where you go through the top, you send the top three videos or creative inspiration pieces for the week, just lines in your inbox. You can go watch them, think about some things, meditate on on 'em throughout the week and see how you kinda plug in your life. And then paperwork orchestra, which you're not touring yet, but you will be soon. Michaeljamin.com/upcoming. Mm-hmm. , where you go skid on the list to let bank know you want to be in discount. I had the pleasure of seeing this in December on my birthday, and I was deeply moved by one of the stories you told and I've talked about that as well. But I still think about that story and it has impacted the way I act with my children and my wife Yeah. And every part of my life. And so Michael, thank you again for that. But it's absolutely worth it. So if you're interested in Michael's writing or the upcoming tours, go sign up for that. Michael, anything you want to add to that?Michael Jamin (30:49):That's it. Thank you all. Thank you all. Yes. Stay tuned. We have more guests coming up on the podcast and more information. Yeah.Phil Hudson (30:57):Great. That's it, Michael. Thank you so much. Thank you everybody. Keep Thanks writing,Michael Jamin (31:01):Keep writing.Phil Hudson (31:03):This has been an episode of Screenwriters Need to Hear This with Michael Jamin and Phil Hudson. If you'd like to support this podcast, please consider subscribing, leaving a review and sharing this podcast with someone who needs to hear today's subject. For free daily screenwriting tips, follow Michael on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @MichaelJaminWriter. You can follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @philahudson. This episode was produced by Phil Hudson and edited by Dallas Crane. Until next time, keep writing.

Aaj baat hogi buzurgon ke bare mein.

Iss series mein Maulana Saleem Alvi sahib se mukhtalif topics pe baat hogi jo family issues se mutaliq hon. Agle episodes meln aur topics bhi share kiye jayenge.

Surah Fatiha - 11th Hour Season 2 - Ep. 13 - Tuaha ibn Jalil - Abu Saad - Khurram Alvi

Ramadan with YC Crew - 11th Hour - Season 2 - Ep. 1 - TJ., Ali E., Abu Saad & Khurram Alvi

Who is Allah - 11th Hour - Season 2 - Ep. 3 - Tuaha ibn Jalil, Ali E., Abu Saad & Khurram Alvi

Regrets in Life - 11th Hour - Season 2 - Ep. 5 - Tuaha ibn Jalil, Khurram Alvi & Abu Saad

Tests & Trials - How to Manage - 11th Hour - Season 2 - Ep. 20 - TJ, K. Alvi & Abu Saad

Power of Words - 11th Hour Season 2 - Ep. 14 - Tuaha ibn Jalil, Ali E. & Khurram Alvi

From House to Home - 11th Hour - Season 2 - Ep. 16 - TJ, K. Alvi & Dr. Kanwal Kaisser

“The fuel gauge was showing zero fuel and I was still flying.” Shot an Israeli jet and later asked to meet the pilot, in episode 3 of the series, Air Commodore Sattar Alvi shares why the Syrian Air Force did not let Pakistani fighter pilots carry out offensive missions against Israelis. TCM presents a first-hand account in an all-new series of a Pakistani pilot, Air Commodore Sattar Alvi who has the credit of shooting down an Israeli jet.

“Israelis wanted to shoot one Pakistani pilot in the air.” Only 8 jets fought 56 Israeli jets with high-end missiles, in episode 2 of the series, Air Commodore Sattar Alvi shares how one mistake by an Israeli pilot helped him in the war. TCM presents an exclusive account in an all-new series of a Pakistani pilot, Air Commodore Sattar Alvi who has the credit of shooting down an Israeli jet.

“If the dead body is brought, Pakistan's government will refuse to acknowledge that we are Pakistani citizens.” Volunteered in a foreign war with no hopes of returning back, in episode 1 of the series, Air Commodore Sattar Alvi shares why he decided to go to Syria to fight the Israelis. TCM presents an exclusive account in an all-new series of a Pakistani pilot, Air Commodore Sattar Alvi who has the credit of shooting down an Israeli jet.

In this episode Alvi, David Alvarez joined Steve Cutler and W Myles Riley to discuss his evolution as a hip hop artist. After many years in health and fitness as a personal trainer and MMA coach David decided to try his hand in his true passion.    Listen in to hear his journey and as a special treat David debuts one of his recent songs live on the podcast.    Follow David!   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alviverse/  Email: Alvi4449@gmail.com  Spotify: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/alviverse/he-ignores    Follow Us! EVOLVE Insta: https://www.instagram.com/evolve_cast/ Steve Cutler Insta: https://www.instagram.com/stevecutler_/ W Myles Reilly Insta: https://www.instagram.com/wmyles.reilly/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecutler_  Web: https://www.evolve-cast.com Shop: https://evolve-cast.myshopify.com   The EVOLVE Podcast is produced by Steve Cutler, all rights reserved. The mission of the EVOLVE Podcast is to empower people to disrupt their lives to EVOLVE their body, mind, soul and tribe.    Steve Cutler helps people and organizations Evolve to higher levels. As a coach and consultant Steve has helped hundreds of people and businesses improve processes and protocols that have led to skyrocketing performance.    With over 20 years in health, fitness, tech and entrepreneurial ventures Steve brings a strong background in operations, marketing, sales, and financial performance. Currently Steve runs EVOLVE, a lifestyle clothing, coaching and consulting business. Steve is the host of the EVOLVE Podcast, a podcast that disrupts peoples lives leading them to greater growth and evolution.    #evolve #evolvepodcast #stevecutler #disrupt

In our very first video podcast Steve Cutler and W Myles Reilly are joined by fitness professional turned musician, rapper and hip hop artist David Alvarez.  David debuted his newest rap on the podcast. Stay tuned for the full episode! Follow Us! EVOLVE Insta: https://www.instagram.com/evolve_cast/ Steve Cutler Insta: https://www.instagram.com/stevecutler_/ W Myles Reilly Insta: https://www.instagram.com/wmyles.reilly/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevecutler_ Web: https://www.evolve-cast.com Shop: https://evolve-cast.myshopify.com   The EVOLVE Podcast is produced by Steve Cutler, all rights reserved. The mission of the EVOLVE Podcast is to empower people to disrupt their lives to EVOLVE their body, mind, soul and tribe.   Steve Cutler helps people and organizations Evolve to higher levels. As a coach and consultant Steve has helped hundreds of people and businesses improve processes and protocols that have led to skyrocketing performance.   With over 20 years in health, fitness, tech and entrepreneurial ventures Steve brings a strong background in operations, marketing, sales, and financial performance. Currently Steve runs EVOLVE, a lifestyle clothing, coaching and consulting business. Steve is the host of the EVOLVE Podcast, a podcast that disrupts peoples lives leading them to greater growth and evolution.   #evolve #evolvepodcast #stevecutler #disrupt

आज का ख्याल शायर साबिर अल्वी साहब की कलम से। शायर कहते है - 'कुंज-ए-तन्हाई के अफगार में क्या रखा है'।

Event held on: 5th of October 2015 ‘Who are the Ahlul Bayt?' The Sunni view was presented by Mufti Mohammad Farooq Alvi (A grand mufti and imam and khatib of the jami masjid Spark brook Birmingham) who presented his research in the stance of Ahl al-Sunnah pertaining to the Institution of Ahl al-Bayt. 0:00 Introduction 0:10 Urdu presentation by Mufti Farooq Alvi 27:11 English summary of above presentation by Shaykh Arif Abdulhussain

*Trigger Warning for Trauma & Genocide*Welcome to the Mindfulness & Productivity Systems Podcast with Dr. Serene Shereef where we explore how mindfulness, productivity systems & our thoughts create the magic in our life. Serene Shereef is a general surgeon, mom to 3 wonderful children, wife, & productivity coach who helps professional women struggling with burnout and overwhelm to take control of their time, mind, energy & productivity.Her MAPS (Mindfulness And Productivity Systems) Framework is a powerful integrated tool that combines the energy of mindfulness with the scientific principles of habit building and your unique systems of productivity. Her goals are to help you discover clarity, design your dream life, and build NanoHabits as well as Mindfulness & Productivity Systems that helps you create more time & live your best life! Please like, subscribe and leave a review for the podcast. We would love to hear your feedback.If you have a story to share about burnout or overwhelm, please reach out to us at serenitywellnessmd@gmail.com or "Mindfulness And Productivity Systems" Facebook Page. You can learn more about Mindfulness and Productivity Systems that can transform your life @ https://www.serenitywellnessmd.com.Special invite for physicians to join "Time for Renewal and Reset" Webinar [May 8th 2-5 PM EST]. More information can be found at https://www.serenitywellnessmd.com/reset. You can contact me at serenitywellnessmd@gmail.com if you have any additional questions.If you are a women experiencing burnout and overwhelm, looking for ideas & tools to take control of your time, mind, energy & productivity, please join my free private “Mindfulness And Productivity Systems for Women” Facebook Group where we support your journey to mindfulness & productivity! https://www.facebook.com/groups/177601140689532Featured guest is Dr. Fozia Alvi.  Dr. Fozia Alvi is family physician, medical educator, mom & humanitarian in Calgary, Alberta. She has been given various awards for her advocacy work including being a Nobel Prize Nominee in 2019 and the recipient of the Advocacy Award in 2019 by CAMSS. Dr. Alvi is the founder of Humanity Auxilium, which is a charitable organization that she started after she witnessed the horrific and unimaginable suffering of Rohingyas in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh in 2017. They work with international partners to find out & provide support for the educational, health, and relief needs of marginalized communities across the globe. You can reach Dr. Fozia Alvi at Website:https://www.humanityauxilium.com; email: info@humanityauxilium.com, FB: Humanityauxilium; IG: Humanityaux

*Trigger Warning for Trauma & Genocide*Welcome to the Mindfulness & Productivity Systems Podcast with Dr. Serene Shereef where we explore how mindfulness, productivity systems & our thoughts create the magic in our life. Serene Shereef is a general surgeon, mom to 3 wonderful children, wife, & productivity coach who helps professional women struggling with burnout and overwhelm to take control of their time, mind, energy & productivity.Her MAPS (Mindfulness And Productivity Systems) Framework is a powerful integrated tool that combines the energy of mindfulness with the scientific principles of habit building and your unique systems of productivity. Her goals are to help you discover clarity, design your dream life, and build NanoHabits as well as Mindfulness & Productivity Systems that helps you create more time & live your best life! Please like, subscribe and leave a review for the podcast. We would love to hear your feedback.If you have a story to share about burnout or overwhelm, please reach out to us at serenitywellnessmd@gmail.com or "Mindfulness And Productivity Systems" Facebook Page. You can learn more about Mindfulness and Productivity Systems that can transform your life @ https://www.serenitywellnessmd.com.Special invite for physicians to join "Time for Renewal and Reset" Webinar [May 8th 2-5 PM EST]. More information can be found at https://www.serenitywellnessmd.com/reset. You can contact me at serenitywellnessmd@gmail.com if you have any additional questions.If you are a women experiencing burnout and overwhelm, looking for ideas & tools to take control of your time, mind, energy & productivity, please join my free private “Mindfulness And Productivity Systems for Women” Facebook Group where we support your journey to mindfulness & productivity! https://www.facebook.com/groups/177601140689532Featured guest is Dr. Fozia Alvi. Dr. Fozia Alvi is family physician, medical educator, mom & humanitarian in Calgary, Alberta. She has been given various awards for her advocacy work including being a Nobel Prize Nominee in 2019 and the recipient of the Advocacy Award in 2019 by CAMSS. Dr. Alvi is the founder of Humanity Auxilium, which is a charitable organization that she started after she witnessed the horrific and unimaginable suffering of Rohingyas in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh in 2017. They work with international partners to find out & provide support for the educational, health, and relief needs of marginalized communities across the globe. You can reach Dr. Fozia Alvi at Website:https://www.humanityauxilium.com; email: info@humanityauxilium.com, FB: Humanityauxilium; IG: Humanityaux

Fikrah #23 - Miftaah Institute, Masaajid, and more! ft. Br. Moaaz Alvi by Mashhud Hussain

Joining us today is Steve “Stix” Nilsen, the vice president of lifestyle marketing at Liquid Death Mountain Water. He has some bold strategies that have proven effects on branding, brand loyalty, marketing, and generating profits for Fortune 500 companies. When asked how he does it, he said “I do cool shit, with cool people, that makes people buy things.” You won't want to miss this fun and lively interview with a down to Earth guy that has some serious moxie! What we're talking about Epiphany on a Beach Tenacity and Forging His Own Path Trying New Things, But Knowing Your Boundaries  Epiphany on a Beach Steve grew up just outside Minneapolis, MN, but visited family in Hawaii over the summers. It was his summer fun that sparked his love for surfing. Even though he went to a private prep school and played traditional sports, he was also passionate about skateboarding and music. It was his love of discovering who he was that led him to try jobs in many different industries, from being a golf cart boy to construction to working in a bank. All the way to working for Northwest Airlines to indulge his love of travel! It was during one of his adventurous trips around the world, Stix had an epiphany. He was sitting on Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia when he had a revelation. His career needed to be in action sports! Tenacity and Forging His Own Path  To obtain a career in action sports, Stix went about it his own way, by grabbing every action sports magazine and studying the brands he liked the most. He cold called companies. He took their existing ads, and redid their marketing with his own comic flair. Sending them back to the companies for review. His boldest move and big break came when he talked to the director of marketing at Airwalk. Her home had just burned to the ground and she had to be on a plane to Europe a few hours later. She was too busy to take his call, so he mailed a smoke detector to her home! It worked and he was hired. Trying New Things, But Knowing Your Boundaries Steve had worked hard to get his foot in the door, and he started working in merchandising. It was when he realized that they were doing it all wrong, and his advice fell on deaf ears, that he decided to learn everything up and down the ladder so he could make the decisions to best position the product.  Will you take your passion and make a career out of it? LINKS MENTIONED Steve Nilsen's LinkedIn Stix's Instagram Liquid Death Instagram Liquid Death Website SPONSOR Wildstory TIMESTAMPS 13:00 - 13:39 (39 sec MG) There really is this awesome idea that...be the person that you wanted to be. 100% 15:05 - 15:18 (13 sec SN) Let's not paint this picture that I'm...they all wore the same outfits. Costumes as I like to say. 27:40 - 27:58 (18 sec MG) Brands don't really own the brands...everyone is having their own conversations.  28:21 - 28:43 (22 sec) How did you start the process of...this is pre-internet. 52:58 - 53:22 (24 sec SN) When the light bulb went off...that is brand equity. 57:58 - 58:20 (22 sec SN) That's pretty tell tale when you have...you're gonna be the first guy who's gonna hit me up for swag. QUOTES I believe travel is so important for the growth of kids, if you can possibly do it, to see other cultures. See other things. It helps you figure out who you are. - SN To exist as a brand, you can't just go off your bros. You've got to bring in people that know what they're doing. - SN You don't just do “enough”. Don't check boxes. - SN I'm a great believer in luck. I find the harder I work, the more I have of it. - Unknown We're not a product. We're a brand. - SN Podcast Transcript Steve "Stix" Nilsen 0:02 All I remember is that they were they moved from Carlsbad, California to Pennsylvania. And I was just barraging her with letters and left and I call call cold call. And then I picked up the phone one day. And I said, hey, it's Steve Nilsen. Oh, it's cute kid. Because again, because Listen, kid, I don't have time to talk to you. My house just burned down. I gotta leave for Europe. And I was like, Alright, I gotta go. So I mailed her a smoke detector in the mail. And she called me like laughing. But two weeks, three weeks later says, Oh my god, you have balls kicked. Yeah, she flew me out and fast forward, I end up getting the job. Marc Gutman 0:41 Podcasting from Boulder, Colorado. This is the baby got backstory Podcast, where we dive into the story behind the story of today's most inspiring storytellers, creators and entrepreneurs. I like big back stories and I cannot lie. I am your host Marc Gutman. I'm Marc Gutman, and on today's episode of Baby got backstory, how a kid from Minnesota infatuated with skating and music was able to combine those two loves, and build a marketing career in the action sports industry with some of the world's biggest brands. Hey, now if you like and enjoy the show, please take a minute or two to rate and review us over at iTunes. iTunes uses these as part of the algorithm that determines ratings on the apple charts. And ratings help us to build an audience, which then helps us to continue to produce this show. I today's episode we're talking to Steve Nielsen. Man, that sounds weird because I know Steve as Styx STI x, and I'm not going to ruin the story of how he got that nickname for you. It's coming up early in the episode and he'll tell you all about it himself. Styx has built a career in the action sports Industry helping to build brands and marketing companies like air walk Red Bull paps. Yep, the Blue Ribbon beer. And now he is helping to build the brand of liquid death, which sounds like some weird cannabis brand, or a punk rock band. But it's canned water. Stix is one of those people who knows everyone and everyone knows him. He's a savvy marketer. And he found a way to marry the things he loved skate culture, in music, with marketing. stix. His story is one of vision, persistence and principles. Listen to the discipline he displays when talking about branding. He's always looking at the long game versus the quick game for the business. I could listen to stix of stories for hours and I loved his honest take on branding and what it takes to build a brand and this is his story. Alright, I am here with Steve Nilson of liquid death. And Steve, I think this might be the last time I call you Steve, because everybody calls you stix. How did you get that nickname? Steve "Stix" Nilsen 3:12 No, I honestly I was given it was 1998 around there. At the time I was building snowboard boots for airwatch and I was over in Asia and long story short is you know, when you're over there in these factories is roasting right and I would wear shorts to the factories because obviously it's super hot in Thailand or Taiwan or or Shanghai, China. And when I wear boots, you know if you guys have skinny legs, it looks like Jiminy Cricket with the boots on and one day my boss at the time who's still very close with me got super irritated about something he was not really me personally but what was going on in production. And we all got really loud. How do you balance them sticks because he's he's from frickin Boston. So stix stuck like that and coworkers are laughing by time I got like some in states camp so he felt that way to SPX and Stop, but it literally is because I've seen the lights. That's not very, you know, glamorous story. But literally, I did look like Jiminy Cricket. I just came across some photos I dug up the other day and I'm wearing snowboard boots and 100 degree factory. So Marc Gutman 4:14 well thanks for that context. Now we're gonna know why we're referring to stix going forward. And stix. You probably have the coolest bio of anyone that has ever been on the show so far. And I'm going to read it because it's very, very short and to the point, I do cool shit with cool people that makes people buy things. What's that mean? Yeah, what's that mean to you? Like how'd you how'd you come to that bio? Steve "Stix" Nilsen 4:40 You know, I think it's because I, you could cut and paste your resume or you could do liquid gas. I'm sorry. resume or you could go to LinkedIn rather, and just cut and paste things and there's not a whole lot of soul to that, I don't think and if you really want me to dumb it down, that's the best way because I'm always run, moving her miles now. And they always say there's quote unquote elevator speech. That was the best way to explain it to you, as he was about to drop it into skate park. If someone asked me what I did, that's what I'm telling you. I mean, it's quick to the point and then maybe pique their curiosity like it is you and it's really just, I'd like to think that my career like, I've had so much fun. And I think that I did all my life, I can look at it that way. I just, I'm not going to do something. If I'm not reading, my heart's not into it. Let's just put it that way. And so you sniff out in your life, brands, people situations, you want to be a part of and make it so you know, and that's really, again, it's probably being a little cryptic, but I hope that answers your question. Marc Gutman 5:36 Yeah, it's a great, it's a great, it's a great answer, stix. And you know, one thing that I know about you and you've touched on it, you dropped a bunch of clues right there talking about dropping into the skate park doing cool things, the cool brands, you know, why don't you tell me a little bit about what your young stix was like? I mean, where did you grow up? What were your interests? And how did that set the foundation for where you are today? Steve "Stix" Nilsen 5:58 Make a very long story short I grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Specifically, it's called the Dinah, Minnesota, which we are known as cake eaters. It's a hockey reference to long strip, anyone can look it up enough cake eaters if you can Google it. Anyway, I have relatives in Hawaii, and I became absolutely infatuated with surf skate culture. I just thought it was the coolest cook back then. There was no packs on. There's no zoomies. There was no, you couldn't find the really cool clothes. Except if you go to the skate shops or shopper. Well, we obviously have a lot of that in Minnesota. So when I visited my relatives, I come back with Quicksilver and the different surf brands, billabong, Town and Country. And people are like, where'd you get the word you get the clothes? Where'd you get that? And it's it had made to mainland United States. Yeah, to me, I guess on the coast, but not on Minnesota. And I fast forward. You know, I really got into skateboarding. And snowboarding hadn't existed yet. And I love that but we could only do it a certain amount of time during the year and that wasn't particularly good. But I got Have some kids from this called Southwest High School, which kind of borders along with the suburb that I grew up in. And they were like the kids, I was just, I was fascinated with the fact that they were so into punk rock that they're the ones to tell me about First Avenue and Seventh Street entry, which is anyone has anyone played those venues as a kid like we're talking to a black flag, Jeff a circle jerks, like all these bands, you could go see him for like five bucks because they'd have a matinee show in the morning or midday and then they'd have the Id show at night they call them or whatever. 21 Plus, and that was really what I did. It's funny because I played traditional sports the whole time. But I just was something about that the music, the way people dress, all that really, like captivated me at a young age. And I think it has to do with the fact which is why I believe travel is so important for like the growth of kids if you possibly can do it, to see other cultures see other things. It helps you figure out who you are and for me by me going to experience what it was like in Honolulu and in Maui, and seeing these guys these cool you know, Massimo was actually a surfer and originally people don't know that. That brand And things like that I was just infatuated with it. So that so hope that kind of gives you a little snapshot that I kind of did both. It's like I played the traditional sports, but I love the punk rock skate side. It just was such a curiosity, but I just love how passionate people were. And you could kind of express yourself, you could just be you didn't have to follow on and I went to private school. So everyone kind of the same costume and not that we had to wear uniforms. But I was fascinated that, again, the music, the the activities of skateboarding, and then eventually snowboarding. It allowed you to be you like whatever that meant, and no one's gonna judge you in those circles. Yeah, it's Marc Gutman 8:38 so interesting. I mean, you and I have a very similar background in that, you know, I grew up in Midwest as well. I was super fascinated with skateboard culture. So much so that I used to just look at Thrasher magazine and dream about that lifestyle until the second I could go to California. I did move to Venice Beach and quickly realized that it wasn't quite like it wasn't the magazine at that time. But But like, you know, Really can relate to that. And so what was like, I mean, what was just so special for you and the one thing that was a little different was like, you know, I always thought like, some of the music that like all the skaters were listening to and I can thrash and all that was a little like, a little hard for me. You know, I was more of like a Detroit Detroit Rock City like heavy, you know, metal hairband, kind of kid, you know, what was it about that? That combination of skate and in music that really spoke to you and you talked a little bit it allowed you to, to self expression to like, why was that important? Steve "Stix" Nilsen 9:31 I think it is because I went to, you know, a very well renowned private school in Minneapolis. But the cool thing with this school, I will say from freshman year on in high school, they really had them really that the kids they're really like music, and I'm not saying about playing on a saxophone or a quarter or even though they were known for the choir. But you got to remember I grew up in the thick of the replacements, Cusco do early soul asylum and people would go to the shows and I would have a senior driving freshman to go see the violent felons, let's say. And I just started going to any show I could get my hands on, like you get a ride to but here the school I went to would be a preppy I guess is the term you'd use. But it was fun because we didn't have like any high school you're gonna have the guys little known fact, one of the founders of ice magazine was a year older than me. And we used to see each other punk shows all the time, you know? Think suroosh Alvi. And he's still there. And we would see each other all the time it was funny because then I yes, did I have clothes I guess you can probably but then I would maybe do a twist on it and go buy a pair of camel pants at the army surplus store. And then my mom would would hand them in or make them a little narrower. You don't need to be so baggy, and just like a fun little twist on stuff but we have very little to choose from back then. Not in a destitute way but in a way that we're pretty much had a few department stores to choose from. So the fact you could go do that so like I had a friend of my late friend morning almost. I bring him up because my one of my closest friends died in 911 100 fourth for the South Tower. He's actually the first person on the victims list. If you look at His last name is Ahmed. And he's one of my son's is named after him. But he was funny with Mr. Like, preppy guy, but be the first guy that one might make his own t shirt or want to go to a punk show. And then he wouldn't alter what he could still wear like, it was like a damn shirt to a punk show because he just no one really messed with the meter. It's kind of bigger guy, but he and I are totally online on music. You know, we'd love everything from the cure to again, replacements to Cusco do and then digging really really deep. Like I said the gfa is the world which word for it and we're even pit pihl public engineer limited, which is an offshoot, obviously the Sex Pistols, but we used to take a bus to downtown Minneapolis, the six plus and we would go to northern lights which was the record store and dig through crates for vinyl. And then there was this was owned by this Asian couple called sons su ns and they're the ones who have all the concert tees and you go on their wall and you look at these five screens printed in black, but you couldn't any of the bands you couldn't see you ever see like the Smiths I go into the Smith's work by seeing a T shirt. I bought the T shirt I have no idea meat is murder. What the Smith It was different. You walk down the street, you were like, what is meat is murder. You know, that's the name of the album. But that was kind of how it happened in Minneapolis. Fortunately again, though, it considered a cold destitute place. Otherwise, it had a really good art scene. My mother works for me, Apple sister of arts for decades, you know, had a really really good thriving theater slash music scene that you wouldn't find major metros, you know, and you needed to try it. But I'd argued right up there was Chicago, you know, they've got venues too, but just a smaller version. No, yeah. And I think Marc Gutman 12:31 it was really cool, like in those kind of smaller, mid major towns because Minneapolis isn't like a small town, but it's not Chicago. But when you get the bands that come into town, you get them to yourselves. And so in a way, it's almost better than when you're like trying to fight through a Chicago crowd or an LA crowd or New York crowd for both tickets, just proximity and that type of stuff. You'd be out on the town and you'd run into your favorite band or something like that, which was always so cool. And, and you touched on something and I don't want to get too existential here, but like There really is this awesome idea that, you know, when we align with brands and we, we display those brands, it really says a lot about who we are and you were able to really go out and perhaps and I don't know this to be true. I mean, was this sort of your first touch in realization of the power of brands and aligning with brands and also, not just that you aligned with one brand when what I really heard from you is that, you know, young stix who wasn't stix at the time was really this combination of many brands in order to kind of be the person that you wanted to be. Steve "Stix" Nilsen 13:38 Hundred percent you know, I can honestly this is, again, gonna sound cliche, Fast Times return Hi, I will completely 100% that movie. I went checker dance. But the funny thing is, you can find him in Minnesota. My sister was going to school in Arizona, I get a graduate degree, and they actually she was able to get a pair for me there. And I remember I wore those and they ain't Another thing is I didn't want to wear socks or anything but Korean socks. They were like a science experiment. I mean it was just was so those things were so right. My mom would meet people outside. But those were like a badge of honor walk around those vans because we didn't have them in Minnesota. Now they're solely to get their name bands and always been kind of mail order. Back then it wasn't FedEx, you know, maybe there was but like, I, you weren't gonna get your shoes overnight, right? You find the backup when you said Thrasher or Transworld or skateboarder and that was around, and you'd fill out it was 1799 for tear shoes, whatever it was back then. But those to me that and like camel pants and just a white t shirt. It's pretty cool kit, you know, 1984 you know, whatever it was, you know? I mean it was and so you're right and but you gotta remember that he we didn't have Abercrombie and Fitch, we didn't have, again, Pac son. He didn't have these places. You just like Okay, I'm gonna go to the department store. And then we think of fun ways to maybe monkey around with the clothes. I might not mean to designer I can't so to save my life. But maybe it alters a jacket completely. Obviously you're cut the sleeves off. If you want to. mean like you're just wrong. And by no means again, I wasn't. Let's not paint this picture and walk around like a guy. That's cool enough, but I always try as best I could with what little I had to work with, to tweak it a little bit. You know, I didn't want to be the same shirt, same things, everybody else because they all we all wear the same outfits with costumes, as I like to say, at the time. Marc Gutman 15:18 Yeah. What do you think that interests like in fashion and pop culture came? Because it certainly shows up later in your career. And we'll talk about that. But you know, where do you think that really came from? Where was one of your parents kind of into that stuff? Was it more your association with your friends? Steve "Stix" Nilsen 15:32 No friends, so I came from the most conservative household ever, you know, very Christian, amazing upbringing. I don't have a complaint in the world. It's just very, very conservative. You know, I mean, now the house is pretty much like I think those rooms I still never been in or have been their house, you know, but and that's no disrespect. But definitely I was there was one of my family was near punk rock. I don't know. I have three siblings. My oldest is my brother. And she did introduced me to a lot of bands that I got into late and like I'm talking about the last five years were way before I ever thought I would like it, you know, Fleetwood Mac, he would play jurnee. He would play Pablo Cruz, he would play. What's the one like Michael McDonald, Doobie Brothers, all these things, which at the time I didn't care for, as I've gotten older, like, I kind of dig it back. You know, I mean, it's some of the stuff which I never would have never. That's way too slow for me at the time. But now I've come to appreciate like journey. Like I just got journey's Greatest Hits for President. Are you kidding me? Like, if I know I played in my living room. Marc Gutman 16:33 So we went here that's exclusively with Mack and journey. All right, everybody. So like stix is a Fleetwood Mac journey efficient. Steve "Stix" Nilsen 16:40 I mean, I can't listen all the time. I wouldn't be able to sit still long enough. But the funny thing is, though, my brother did go to concerts a lot. So I kind of got caught. He told me some hilarious stories when this first arena shows me you know, I must have been five years old, and he's going to these and tell me when the house lights went off. The first time it's film that stadiums with North Stars played. He literally thought there was a power outage. You know, they do that. before they get on stage, and I forget who was going to see I think was, oh, Linda Skinner, something like that. And, you know, they cut the house lights, obviously for anyone and he just said how he almost urinated soiled himself because he thought the power was out, you know, but just explain what it's like to go to his first show. But he took me to see kiss. He was in college, and I was in middle school, whatever it was, and I got to see kids when they were in their heyday. This is 1979 or 80 or something like that. got like, that's first time ever smell weeks. I had no idea what the smoke was everywhere. And it just smelled funny, you know? But again, I taken my brother ticularly first kiss show again. That was the full original lineup. So I got to see that was pretty cool. Marc Gutman 17:36 Pretty great claim to fame. So here you are, you know, you're just finding out who you are. You're dabbling and skate culture and music and figuring things out. You know, like, what was your first real job and what was it in marketing or was it Steve "Stix" Nilsen 17:51 God? No. I my first look from a neighbor was he literally had a Chris craft boat where those goodies whether they're called you know the ones for eautiful Have to store that. But in the meet the same time, my brother at this point my brother has was in law school, whatever, but he'd worked for a local golf course. And I ended up because they liked my brother so much. They literally like, I got a job there. And it was awesome because I was in charge of the golf carts. So I go around, but I got to interact with everybody. You know, I mean, anytime you just wanted a cart, I'm going to bring it up in in the golf carts and really actually a really good golf course. So public course. But that was one where I was just, you got to, you know, really interact. A lot of people see different people for different walks of life, because again, it's a public course. Right? And that's where I was introduced to the Beastie Boys, because one of the guys that I worked with him cards, pull out this license, the L tape, and I was like, What is this and I was like, I think I melted the tape. We listen to it so much. And I just was so fascinated because I didn't know anything about hip hop or rap or anything like that. But I loved the Beastie Boys style those guys to me, if anyone has moved the needle culturally, with anywhere, this the Beastie Boys, I'm serious. Like I was So in fact, I'm thinking how could these dudes leave their from Brooklyn and you know, the fighter, right, all that stuff, but if you really outside of that hit that they had. So the subs, like amazing like Paul's boutique, I think is one of most underrated albums. Like, I put in the top 10 most underrated album, I mean, what those guys did. And it's ironic now there's this spike Jones documentary on it, but those guys just look at what they went through. I mean, I remember reading an article they were they bought ups, outfits to wear on on stage, but yet they had a big catalog out of like, retro champion where they were going to do who was doing that at the time, you know, I mean, just retro old school athletic wear, and they were making it cool, you know, and then I saw him play live and I was like, Okay, this is this is a whole nother thing, you know, but that was I roundabout way of saying how I was like, I got exposed to something else. You know, being at this public golf course. It's like, wow, Beastie Boys. What the hell is this? You know, I knew all about punk rock, but I didn't know and then that there became a crossover. Those guys originally. Were coming in, you know, not many people. I don't think That lookup I think it's probably walk stools are first of all up and look it up. Yeah. And Marc Gutman 20:04 so you know musics of throughput through your life where'd you go after the golf course, Steve "Stix" Nilsen 20:08 golf course my senior year and then I worked construction, which, again, great life lessons there. I learned to this day enough to be dangerous. It's Brian wall wiring plumbing. But it also made me realize I didn't want to do manual labor. It was a great experience. I got through with friends we a lot of laughs But I knew it was something that I didn't want to do. Second summer, I worked at a bank. And that was another huge learning experience because I'd have to go every morning I put on a tie go down downtown Minneapolis, and I remember calling my parents saying I'm going to be in college for 15 years. This is what the real world is like, because I can't it was just like, droids marching every day. The same thing was just a miserable experience on under artificial light in a cube. You were wearing a tie. I was wearing a tie. Yep. And I the funny part is I'd have to drive myself First Avenue to get to the where I worked. And I thought someone's gonna just pull me out of my jeep and just wild me for wearing a tie so close to sacred spot like that, right? Who would have thunk it years earlier, I'm waiting in line with all the other kids trying to get a ticket. And I drive by and wearing a tie. Right? And then I thought that the most the least painful thing to do would be to be a copywriter because I was originally an English major, and I didn't know what to do with that. I loved it. I got to work on the Harley Davidson account. I got to work on this thing called Skeeter Boats. I'm not kidding you. But it was like it was a cool environment. My boss was really cool. I got college credit for it, which is awesome. From there, I went to work for Northwest Airlines. And the reason I'm telling you that is the fact that I studied abroad in Australia for a bit and by that when I got this internship with united with Northwest Airlines, which became Delta, they just opened up the Australian market. So they actually ran everything by me to see if it was going to be authentic or not. And it was just something about travel once again. I'm like wow, this place I live in this earth. I got credit for it. And my payments was they gave me four tickets to go anywhere in the world. I wanted to go back paying cash. And then my last internship for credit was I work for a public relations for Minnesota North Stars, the hockey team. And I obviously did a great job for Dallas the next year. No, it really I just didn't realize I didn't want to work. It's not what it's cracked up to be to work for protein. But it's not okay. When you're in the bowels of the stadium, not not only the fun part was those I part of my job is to take players to go talk to schools. And that was, I will argue that not just because I play hockey, but professional hockey players are probably the coolest pro athletes will ever meet your life. They're so humble and self mocking and appreciative and because most of them did come from small towns in Canada or Europe or wherever, or or they went right into juniors and never really got finished high school. So for them, they're just happy go lucky and it was a great experience. So that's a long winded way of explaining kind of experiences I had. Marc Gutman 22:57 Yeah, where'd you go on those four free trips. Steve "Stix" Nilsen 23:00 Let's see I blew my knee out. So I went to see a friend in Maui who's a dive instructor. I'm a certified no Patty diving, whatever. And I would just because I couldn't move my leg, I think I could every day, which is diving groups. And I just tagged on behind the group. So I got to scuba dive every day for free for 10 days, where my leg was just dragged behind me in the water, and I did that. So I think I went to San Francisco but then I went back to Australia, because after I graduated college I got and that's where I had my epiphany for my career. That's where I was like, that's when the light bulb went off. I know the exact spot on Bondi Beach rather sitting having a beard like seeing that when there's a skate they used to have skate ramps, now their actual cement bowls, and I remember I want to be an actual sports. I was watching these guys surf and like I want to be this is this is like I would go into the surf shops and every corner I would always want to surf shops. There's this brand SNP that wasn't really a player for a while it actually sports business and that was bought by Riot snowboards and then it's just kind of like it's licensed out now. But that's a hot brand on Australia. The time is just fascinating. Everything about everything. Every little magazine I get my hands on. I was absolutely infatuated and funny thing is my job down there had nothing to do with music art or action sports. It looked I was writing copy for a nonprofit that I care because it gave me a tax ID to live there for a year and live on a beach. So that's really where I was like, This is what I do. Marc Gutman 24:19 Yeah, like, what was the will kind of take a little moment here, but like, what was the scene like that? I mean, was there really like an action sports industry at that time? Or is it more like these sort of like little brands, little skate shops, like what does it look like at that time? Steve "Stix" Nilsen 24:34 It's, you know, the one thing that was starting to take off at that point was snowboarding. Okay, this is 95 year of 95. And I lived in Australia, and I made my way over to New Zealand to ride it's called the remarkable mountains over there. I mean, I still have my first snowboard jacket that literally is a glorified flannel with like a Teflon pad on the bottom and it's funny, it's like dropped, which frankly is back in style, though. I should pass it on next year. But never it was just everything about it to me though black flies was like the hot sunglass brand and they made goggles my first goggles were black box okay, but it wasn't it were the really the final part. The final catalyst for me saying this is what I have to do is I got back to the states turned down some job offers were literally charity from like my buddy's parents You know, it just it was nothing I would have accelerated or really enjoyed. It doesn't matter what it was. I t just was not to me it's more corporate stuff right. And I went to my first work tour. And at that point was the second year of the tour. I missed the first year living in Australia but I saw it in a magazine and they had a couple bands so I just still to this day love orange nine millimeter quicksand l seven, some wine was a part of the first one. And I drove to Milwaukee Wisconsin with my girlfriend at the time. And that's where I saw a Warped Tour and I still have some photos of like me in the pit shooting with a 35 millimeter inside, penny wise and then the outside me shooting guy skating the skateboard and remember going this is what I want to be this What I've got to do like this is so me just just people having fun was punk rock. We're skaters. And then the brands that were part of that, you know, at the time it was billabong, and I think even though there's a thing called split, it was it was a clothing brand. They were part of it. But they had a little booth there. And, you know, I was a little kid in the candy store free stickers. I mean all that like I get it. You know, that was my first taste. But yeah, this is like marketing 101 or grassroots marketing, just get the brand in people's hands and let them decide for themselves where to put the stickers what to do what brands, you know what I mean? And that was that was my aha, like, Okay, I'm onto something here. Because there's no way there'd be a tour like this if this wasn't what yet. But you got to remember, this is before magic zoomies existed at that point. But before these was in the stores started, really, really being a little more prominent in cities more and more popping up and skateboards is something it had been in California, obviously in some pockets around the US. But I was sitting there going, Hey, how can I get in this business? And that was literally like that. I mean, I was like laser focus. Like how many The minute I got home, I started my long slog and try to get my foot in the door. Marc Gutman 27:05 Yeah. And so it's so interesting to me. I mean, you know, from a very young age when you describe those internships, you were very astute to align your interests with some sort of business need, right? So you know, you love to travel so you went to work for the airline, you loved hockey, so you went to the North Stars realized it wasn't for you, but that's okay. And then you go to Australia and you have this like, you know, this this epiphany and what I was imagining when you were talking just about that environment were with grassroots marketing and people handing out stickers. It was so interesting to me. It's kind of like where we are now today with social media, right? Where we're like brands don't really own the brand. There's all this conversation and all this interaction going on outside the brand, by the customers by their by by the fan base and very much like that was happening for you, right, like everyone's handing out stickers and authenticating the brand and having their own conversation. Somebody was just like, really interested. To me, but you come back and you're like, I want to be in this business. I mean, what's that plan? I mean, so, Hey, man, I've been struck a few times in my life to where I'm like, I know exactly what I want to do. And I have this amazing fantasy. And then I go like, Oh, crap. Now I got to like, actually make it a reality. And sometimes that doesn't always add up. Like how did you like, start that process of getting into action sports and actually making a career out of it? Steve "Stix" Nilsen 28:26 Honestly, I grabbed every magazine I could get my hands on. And I just got to the players were and not not in a backdoor I'm in it was like I just I knew brands that I really liked. brands who maybe didn't resonate with me as much and I had no choice. This is pre internet. Like I'm cold call, right? Well, then I find out there's this thing called si a show. And I literally was 300 bucks for like three nights and airfare to Treasure Island at Vegas. And I went into the show with resume And the funny part is I've never really told him the story. I was thinking to myself because I was surrounded by like, how am I gonna? Help me stand apart? Like, these guys probably gonna have pluses I didn't know what the trim bro man that everyone's just kind of gets backdoor bro jobs. And in Minnesota like I grew up in a walk, right so I've flown ski I wakeboarder which is how I destroyed my leg. But I also compare for so I literally was handing out these resumes with us a picture staples of me barefoot, right because I thought that was kind of badass. Like, you know, I didn't know what I know now about how what like a charity of sorts and he's actually sports Branson, so I'm sure in high tech Okay, cool. You know, you don't hindsight 2020 but I thought how can I turn some heads or get some attention with my resume? So I attached picture of me barefooting you know, cuz I still do those tumble turns and go down. You can spin around and get back on your feet again. I thought you know, someone find that interesting, but they got it in hindsight. I mean, I might as well Wearing a tutu? No, they probably thought, who's this clown. So I literally when I went started doing was collecting business cards. Everywhere I went and I took some, some people were nice enough to give me like a honcho card. And other people would give me like a customer service persons card, it didn't matter. And then I thought, Okay, I'm going to take what I learned at the agency, and I took their ads from the different brands and I made them funny. I just stopped funding them making stuff and get a kick out. So I was mailing back at this again, pre internet, so I was really going to everyone under the sun Marc Gutman 30:33 Yeah, how are you making ads talk about that. I mean, were you like making collages with paper Steve "Stix" Nilsen 30:37 I would take their ads out of the magazine Exacto and change their headline, or take a Polaroid or something and kind of superimposed on at the time and it was kind of a cool come to write, but I didn't, I didn't I didn't register, Marc Gutman 30:50 but you're not using like a computer or like Photoshop or anything. Steve "Stix" Nilsen 30:53 I didn't have any of that. I didn't have computer for years. And I thought I would mail them back and of course then I will The phone call and you gotta remember man, like, I'm trying to get my career all my buddies are in Wall Street. You know, that was where I grew up. I wrote that set with those guys role. And that's nothing wrong with that just wasn't my scene, but you know, and then my parents dining room table, you know no buddies are all partying in New York, right? But I just knew I couldn't do it but I kept calling, calling calling some people I got through to some people I didn't. But I just knew that I knew I was so mobile. I was like, someone want to be moved to California because I was moved to Chula Vista for that brand SMP. I would, I probably never would have left Southern California and I moved to California, and it just didn't pan out. But again, it just you just lesson learned. You got to try and try and try again because you are gonna have the door slammed in your face, especially that industry being as young as it was at the time. I mean, it was like the ultimate like old boys network, you know, and, boy, good luck breaking into that. And I just knew I was going to be an asset to a brand but I also still knew I need to learn a lot from pinion that only makes a mistake once and never having a mistake again and I'll own up to it. You know, so that's really where I was at the time. Marc Gutman 32:03 But I'm sorry, I missed that. Did you? Did someone bite on that? And did you get a job? Steve "Stix" Nilsen 32:08 Yeah, I what had happened is I was getting so down in the dumps. And the one brand that I focused in on because they weren't every single magazine snow surface skate magazine was arawak. And at the time, they had the who's who, every sport. They even had a few surfers, and I was taking their ads and doing stuff in cut. I don't remember her last meeting, but the director of marketing, same thing was Nina. All I remember is that they were they moved from Carlsbad, California to Pennsylvania, and I was just thrashing around with letters, and I call call call cold call. And then I picked up the phone one day and said, hey, it's Steve Nilson, you know, and she was Oh, it's cute kid again, because Listen, kid, I don't have time to talk to you. My house just burned down. I gotta leave for Europe and fires like, Alright, I gotta go. So I mailed her a smoke detector in the mail. And she called me like last But two weeks, three weeks later, she's Oh my god, you have balls kids like, Yeah, she flew me out. And that's what I end up getting a job. That's what I needed. That's why I was always confident, like, one on one with someone, but I just needed a chance. I just needed someone open the door for me, you know, and apparently I did well, my interview, you know, but I just I guess maybe I was so pumped up from trying to get in the industry that I probably overwhelmed with all those feeling. It was just longing for an opportunity to just like, show I know what I was talking about. And I guess the one thing that you know, I was fortunate enough to go to some really good schools Is that you? I was I learned how to kind of cut mentalize and articulate what I not only looked at the industry and just being a sponge, which showed me how when I'm interested in something, I am like that idiot savant. Like I can just absorb everything. Remember every little detail and I think I would probably overwhelmed with them when I was interviewed at arawak. But again, all I needed was that chance and they gave it to me and the rest of you know what that is. So that was my first stepping stone but I had this Fight and claw to get that, because there was still an old boys network even at erawan at the time, they're like, why would you hire a guy from Minnesota? No. And my parents were so blessed because they taught me early on things when only manners but being a good listener. And, you know, by that you can you can learn from people and comment on it versus some people just want to be heard all the time. And so I've been blessed the way I was raised, because I think that I was able to do both of them. I was a student of the game, but then some that I was going to go out this kind of a calculating way and not just fly by night for stuff against the wall. Hope it sticks. Marc Gutman 34:34 You know? Do you remember that first day at arawak? Steve "Stix" Nilsen 34:37 I do. And you know, I'm gonna be honest with you. I feel again, I haven't really ever told anyone this but I just remember one of the first big meetings I was at. And there was a few people and again, it doesn't matter who it is whatever else but I just sit there going in my brain. Were positions that I wanted and going, Oh my gosh, I know I could run circles around this person. Like no comparison and I I was amazed. It's my first taste. And it happens to this day of people you could put in positions either, you know, right or wrong happens. But I'm thinking, I would absolutely crush that position. And that was the only thing where I was like, Okay, I'm the one getting chided, because I'm from Minnesota, and I'm looking at these people, like, I'm sorry, but there was just I started questioning these people could even put a sentence together, you know what I mean? Like, you'd be cool all day long, like, Hey, man, there's got to be a business acumen to this too. You know, that's all it was just again, no disrespect to anyone in particular. It was just more of I sat there going, wait a second. So I'm getting chided by these guys. And I'm sitting there going, you got to be kidding me. Like, what? You know, um, so that was a big eye opener whether it was an old boys network was just like, selling to someone and that kind of thing. And I don't know, this is a brand you can't just off your Bros. Like you gotta have people who bring in people that know what they're doing, you know, but I think then again, I wasn't a physician because I had no experience at the time to do that. I know like the stand up. So became my goal. to basically get these What do you want to say? feathers, my capper arrows in my quiver to learn, learn, learn, learn and learn. So every part of the business, the sales part, the marketing part, the production part. And that's what I set out to do. Marc Gutman 36:13 And so what was your role when you started and what was your role when you left Steve "Stix" Nilsen 36:17 So funny that when I started, I'm not kidding you. My first thing because I wanted to get my foot in the door, was I was a merchandiser. I'm not kidding. So my skin my role was to run around big to stores and make sure our stuff look good. But the funny thing is, it became very, very obvious to me that we were doing it wrong. And I was so low on the totem pole. No one would listen to me but like, the Tony Hawk shoe should not been to Carnival should not have been on the wall at journeys, because that was the lifeblood of the skate shops. And I started telling him that but the person who reported you didn't want any part of it was the type of person that just never wanted to rock the boat and just kind of did on the roof. And I was just didn't sit with me. I'm like, No, no You can't just do enough. All right, don't check box. It's like this isn't right. We're headed for disaster here. Because back to skate shops like I felt comfortable in skate shops. And to this day, I could go have a conversation with a kid about skaters or surfers snowboarders. You don't I mean, it's a different it's, it's almost like a little clubhouse of sorts. But that was a real eye opener. So what did I do? I just tried to like I went to Nordstrom for Pete's sake, we had our shoes in Nordstrom. Okay. And I'm sitting there going, Okay, like, there's no product differentiation here. Like we can't be having the skate stuff in a Nordstrom. You just can't do that to these little shops because, you know, they were, you know, less than what you'd get it. You know, I mean, Nordstrom just undercutting and price wise, I guess maybe not torture, but you know, some of the other places the bigger big box stores mean arawak ended up paying for the sins of all the brands that are in malls now. Because it was so it was just antichrist to have your shoes, or any action sports apparel in a mall, you know? So that was where I started and then at these meetings, I would say this is what I'm seeing out in the field, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. And to make a long story short, basically they said, okay, tough guy. If you see an issue with a pricing, one, you want to get development. And that's when I got into the snowboard boot development, and spent three weeks a month in Asia building summer boots, and it's actually dabbled in shoes as well in the skate stuff. And again, total eye opener, got to travel the world like, you know, see, Bangkok see Hong Kong numerous times, Taiwan, Thai Chung, you know, and the funny thing is at the time that he was getting all the crap for sweatshops, but they're getting picked on because of the big one and having success but we all share the law at all. But we all share the same factories. They were the ones who just the big target, but I thought was so funny that they were getting all this heat, the sweatshop thing and we're all in it. And frankly, factory jobs like the best job in town, a lot of those places they were getting, you know, people lived on campus. They three square meals a day, their schools for the kids, it was actually like Good deal for the local locals. So I just I learned a ton from that time being a product developer. And then fast for the last role I held was was basically snow marketing measure. You know, working with Mike arts and Joe Babcock and the abs. It's funny, it shifted from being a rapper to going into development. And that was the last role I had was was when they moved the company to Colorado, and I was working the snow division. Marc Gutman 39:32 This episode brought to you by wildstory. Wait, isn't that your company? It is. And without the generous support of wild story, this show would not be possible. A brand isn't a logo or a tagline or even your product. A brand is a person's gut feeling about a product service or company. It's what people say about you when you're not in the room. Wild story Helps progressive founders and savvy marketers build purpose driven brands that connect their business goals with the customers they want to serve. So that both the business and the customer needs are met. This results in crazy, happy, loyal customers that purchase again and again. And this is great for business. If that sounds like something you and your team might want to learn more about, reach out @ www.wildstory.com. And we'd be happy to tell you more. Now back to our show. Yeah, and so in at that point, you know, you were doing snowboard boot development, you're in the snow division. Did you start doing some of those unique collabs at AIR walk or was that a little bit later in your career? Steve "Stix" Nilsen 40:48 That was that came later. But I think that why those came to me was because of my understanding of product timelines, raw materials, how that works, how the how they come to production. caliber work. So if you want to work with a brand like, Hey, we want to do a shoe or a jacket rubber for it, let's do it for, you know, 2021 season Well, this day and age, I don't care how good the technology, you still can't get anything done that fast. And you're gonna like, probably wouldn't be able to unless you put a patch on something that's an existing silhouette, you know, but again, we did, I will be honest with you. I mean, I do have a few pieces that I have made for myself over there that are one off, and it's just kind of fun to have something that no one else in the world has, you know, because I knew that just custom shoes for friends and family, things like that. It's not a big deal. All I do is have a little extra different material to make the tongue a little different color or whatever. That was super fun for me. And again, I can't draw to save my life. But I think one of the things that I was able to do because my time is merchandiser when we would do a design review and put all the silhouettes on the wall. I'd like to think I picked out probably the one was going to sell the best off the shelf. Like I don't know what it is. I just Look at it took me two seconds, I look at that one. And I'm not saying it always was the case. But I think that again, I want my learnings of being at retail, and going to numerous countless, because I covered the whole Midwest accounts, everything from shields, in the Dakotas to these little skate shops, like I was like, okay, that's okay, what the company is doing that they're not going to do. Now given. Once I went into the office environment. I was more traveling to like trade shows and events and things like that I wasn't on the boots on the ground as much. But again, unfortunately, that culminated in so many poor decisions made by the teams, the leadership that by the time, my counterparts and I got a position to do anything that brand was pretty much done, unfortunately. So that was my MBA. I'm not the only one. Were my office, my family and I have a master's degree and that was my extra degree. And how not to do business was what I learned. arawak Yeah, when I started getting that would arawak argue is one of the top action sports brands of any time. We just made the number boots on word. I thought they were eating burdens lunch wise. And they haven't done head to toe yet. But just if you look at the old rosters of the teams, I mean, there was no comparison. You know, it was that hot and to the way that that that poor decisions that were made, in hindsight and again, it was just it bringing the sales guys from the big shoe companies, you know, phila, Reebok wherever, didn't sell these guys were taking orders, it dumped the shoes on the table and furniture, knees, that's looking stuffs, the skate stuff that ended up in journeys. And then we just choke out the little guys that they've relied on Jeff rally shoe. There were a lot in 2002. There were a lot of Jason Lee, there are a lot you know, Mike Frazier, and we kill them. We literally like it. Because again, Vance wasn't a player that they are now. And it was asked us at these events on the wall, the skate shops, and the majority Was there one shoot and it's just to see that happen and not really have any control and I'm never gonna get in that position again. That was brutal. Marc Gutman 43:56 Yeah, and you're I mean, you really did you. I mean, you hit it like it's heyday like where it was like at its best. And then due to private equity and demands on shareholder returns really kind of just went went downhill and didn't go the right way. But, you know, like you said, you did get basically an MBA there, you learn so much. I mean, we don't have to get into it now. But I know that you have so many close friends from those from those days as well and that have gone on to do other things. But from that point, you sort of start like a new chapter of your career, which really is turned into canned beverages in a weird way. And so if I forgot this, right, you went to red balls that right? Steve "Stix" Nilsen 44:38 Yeah, Marc Gutman 44:39 yeah. And so you got there and oh, my gosh, talk about sort of the poster child for action sports marketing. I mean, really, is there anything you know, at the time better? Steve "Stix" Nilsen 44:53 No, you know, I have to be honest with you like, the stars aligned for me at that point. It was without trying me. It took me a year. To get hired, and that's how they were so new, no one who had an energy drink was, when I think about it, we was it was so crazy, I guess would be the best way. And I'm not I'm not kidding you. It's like I won the lottery. Because all sudden, overnight, you know, again, they didn't have the brand equity yet they were they were gonna build that. But overnight, I basically had a, you know, on my expense report, I had a line item for a long time, like I could expense I mean, who does that? Right? And it took me a while to really, I was one of the first force marketing managers and I remember I've always believed in rolling my sleeves and training my team. I've never asked anyone to do something I would do myself. And I was putting on an event somewhere and I'm in Brighton all over the venue, right? And my boss stopped me. He's still a dear friend. He's like, Dude, what are you doing? And I'm like, dude, I gotta help you. Because that's why you have a budget to hire the event crew to worry about. Okay, I need you to make sure everything's straight. Like, again, you want to help, that's fine. You're going to help us big time by making sure your branding looks right and whenever it's just chill, like let the worker bees work. Your phone And so it's not saying I ever got comfortable with that. But but then it got to the point where we literally live by the mantra like, pay the fine. Like we asked for forgiveness, not permission. And it was unbelievable because right then we ended up having to remember the channel crossing. You know, we are Felix Baumgartner goes across the English Channel on a jet when he does that, right. And that became a benchmark where it was like, Alright, what's our next channel crossing? Because I've made international news, you know, and so that was where the heat was turned up on us as sports, right matches, what's the next athlete project you're going to do? What's the next event? What is the next channel crossing, you know? And so it was overwhelming to me. I mean, they treated us so well at Red Bull. I mean, just it's, the company is very, very skewed like they, they get it does have that euro vibe. They're very, very like driven and results driven. But the difference, this is one thing I've learned, which is my soft spot, is that I was never ever held to a scalable number. All right stix you do that we better sell X amount of cases. Never, ever once in my tenure, there was I ever held my hand held to the candle saying, if you're doing this, you better said we better sell more cancel. They just knew it. And I think that that is a key to a really, really successful team is when you all have a common goal, but you trust each other. And no one's ever packing anyone else. No one's ever like, well, he did this. She did that or whatever. No, it was like the part that became the biggest pressure cookers when we'd meet a couple times a year and we'd literally have each, each of us or five of us would get called out to the carpet. Okay, what's the next big idea? That's pretty when you got the Austrians over here, and they're like, what, what's next? What do we do? What's the next idea? And that you could never have the exclusive This is the crazy thing. Think about this. Money was never an excuse. Like I mean, I didn't know that was $960,000. Okay, money was never so that was not new, you could hide behind. But the funny part is, you can have a very, very impactful event with just a case of product in a bottle of vodka. You know, I mean, it's just dependent on you don't I mean? How to do that. Not everything was a home run. Not every single thing resonated. But this is before you know, certainly before any social media, you know, so the only output we had for a lot of this content was it was originally a G shock rush hour I think it was called some like that which became fuel TV. Well fuel TV. It was that like after a while, like okay, rebel, you're doing amazing stuff. But this is also becoming the rebel channel. We can't use all your content, which is why Red Bull and they started getting into this when I parted ways in the rebel media house where they become their own production and all that and, you know, it's funny, ESPN even sniffed out as well. It is brilliant on rebels. Yeah, they were painted by this crazy airtime and New Years and just put their own branded events on there. And you'll get basically if you consider what the cost of media buys, it was nothing was a drop in the bucket for Redbull to reach millions and millions, millions of people something super unique. You know, like Robbie Maddison doing the lawn rolls large jump over a football field. Or you know, All righty, Madison stuff. You've seen it years. And that's typical red bull, like we're going to come in. We're coming hot. We're going to do it right now. It's gonna be people can't touch us probably, you know, cost wise, you know? Marc Gutman 49:05 So why'd you leave red bull, if it was so great? Steve "Stix" Nilsen 49:07 You know what? Honestly there's like any company there was um, shifts and how they were going to do originally the sports marketing crew reported to Santa Monica and had a dotted line to Austria and and that got watered down and there was they decentralized that and you know it's like anything you get Growing Pains is a big company and you know when I started a sports marketing manager, you handle everything from a soapbox race or a photog which maybe you've seen where you know, flying the means when people make their own little crafts or jump off a deck, you know, they've done it everywhere all over the country of Portland, Santa Monica New York City. All sudden they broke it out to right now you're gonna have an event manager you're gonna have an athlete manager. It's just got her water down. I'm not saying from a control freak perspective that I needed my hand and everything. But then they want to they were talking about shifting people move different places, but surely wasn't really Colorado and Pascual Riven came out of nowhere and different stuff to think about how to hem and haw about us the passing of the money was pretty much a dormant brand. But I could sense there was this brand equity that was building because the athletes I care I could give whatever they wanted whatever bottles surface especially the skates know guys like I want Pepsi. Pepsi ribbon. I had had that in college and that was literally because it was whatever's on sale. Right. And it's just had this cachet to it as an escape guys special they're just like password and password like what is going on? And it's funny how that segue happened. Because I went in there going Oh, yeah, I can do some fun with this brand in the back of my head going holy crap. How you gonna pull this off with nobody? You know, I mean, talking I said over and over again talking about going penthouse to the poorhouse. That's exactly what happened. The budget was big time. Yeah, but then Marc Gutman 50:47 so and what was that? Like? What was the marketing plan at paps? I mean, like you said you have a lot, you know, not very much budget. So how did you deal with that? Steve "Stix" Nilsen 50:58 Well, the one thing that It became very clear to me was I had something that 99% of events need. And that's alcohol. And I knew if I could figure out the distribution system, you can't ship alcohol in certain legal but we had hired FM's field marketing managers, our market agents we had a calling in different cities. And we thought you know, we're going to do this as grassroots as in as in person as possible in you know, in marketing to amplify the brand. But we if the stars align the way a couple things got one, we were in a recession, okay, to perhaps in having marketing behind. So if nothing was being shoved down consumer throats, this is the you know, PB army SAP, none of that, but it was just it just chugged along. And we're cheap. I mean, the bottom line is with that, and I often like to refer to Goodwill hunting. Remember that that wealthy girl starts dating Matt Damon, and it's almost like she's kind of slinging it. He says to her, it's almost like you know, paps had this like kind of dirty connotation to it. You know, like you're a little dirty. I have in the past. The big aha moment for me, I think it was 2010, something like that. We did a, I'm sorry, I was approached friend or friend type thing, which is where a lot of my opportunities came from, like once I was able to pass on some of these doors started opening for me in music, art and action sports because of my relationships and past jobs. And I got hit up by I don't remember what brand it was. It was Alexander when tech ran, but it was one of the brands was doing an event during fashion week in New York City and they said, We want taps there. And I'm sitting there scratching my head like, Okay, I have zero money to give you. This is something Heineken would pay 10 grand just to be in the door. I don't get it. So I said I will sponsor this but I need to be able to come check it out. And sure enough, I went there. I didn't have a black turtleneck like everybody else but whatever. That's right. And I walked backstage and it's passed in these bins and you know, they do that where they put the cloth drape in there and then they put water in the bins. It was us some shishi water and don't carry on. I'm not kidding you. But when the light bulb went off when I was sitting Around whenever he was milling about after the show was a runway show, and I sat there and watched it and whatever, didn't get half of what these people were wearing, but whatever I'm supposed to, but I saw these little wavy models carrying pops in their head. And I knew, right, well, they wanted nothing to do with the liquid inside. It had everything to do with it, they had that camera in their hand. And that to me was like that is brand equity. And literally, I always kind of looked at apps that way, I looked at it as it's not, we're not a beer company. We're a brand. And I think it drove the other beer companies nuts because they just couldn't figure out how to crack our code. But they weren't set up to. They couldn't be nimble. They couldn't do what we did. And we never asked permission, just like Redbull we just did it and we'd literally get asked for forgiveness. And I can say now knock on wood. I didn't have one thing but you the button, and there's a lot of illegal things that happen just b

Ali Alvi with Jason Barnard at The Bing Series Ali Alvi talks to Jason Barnard about the search algorithm for featured snippets. First thing we learn is that this feels a lot like a soccer interview. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0UhsQb5iAU Then Ali confirms what Gary Illyes said in 2019 - the different candidate sets use the core algo in a modular fashion. Ali is team lead for the Q&A candidate (Q&A is Bing's name for featured snippet) But also that all of the algos are end-to-end neural networks. We know what goes in, we see what comes out… but nobody knows what goes on in between :) And a nice clarification - Q&A are pulled from the blue links below it. Other rich elements such as video and images don't rely on the pages the 10 blue links provide - they have a separate selection process. Now that is interesting. Even more interesting - Ali answers the intriguing question “where do the descriptions for the blue link / core results come from?” (spoiler alert - it isn't from the core algo!) We talk a great deal about trust - Bing must trust the website providing the answer. So building trust over time has to be key. And then onto the main factors / features that affect ranking for Q&A are: accuracy, trust, authoritativeness, freshness… and not being offensive (aka safeguarding Microsoft's reputation).  We also discuss Google's decision to remove the result from the main results when content is used as a featured snippet (Ali doesn't agree with Google here). And finally, dependence on annotations by the crawling and indexing team, as discussed with Fabrice Canel in the previous episode. It all fits together so nicely ! Catch the rest of the Bing Series: How Ranking Works at Bing - Frédéric Dubut, Senior Program Manager Lead, BingDiscovering, Crawling, Extracting and Indexing at Bing - Fabrice Canel Principal Program Manager, BingHow the Q&A / Featured Snippet Algorithm Works - (this episode) Ali Alvi,  Principal Lead Program Manager AI Products, BingHow the Image and Video Algorithm Works - Meenaz Merchant, Principal Program Manager Lead, AI and Research, BingHow the Whole Page Algorithm Works - Nathan Chalmers, Program Manager, Search Relevance Team, Bing

Welcome to the History of Computing Podcast, where we explore the history of information technology. Because by understanding the past, we're able to be prepared for the innovations of the future! Todays episode is not about Fear, Uncertainty, and Death. Instead it's about viruses. As with many innovations in technology, early technology had security vulnerabilities. In fact, we still have them!  Today there are a lot of types of malware. And most gets to devices over the Internet. But we had viruses long before the Internet; in fact we've had them about as long as we've had computers. The concept of the virus came from a paper published by a Hungarian Scientist in 1949 called “Theory of Self-reproducing automata.” The first virus though, didn't come until 1971 with Creeper. It copied between DEC PDP-10s running TENEX over the ARPANET, the predecessor to the Internet. It didn't hurt anything; it just output a simple little message to the teletype that read “I'm the creeper: catch me if you can.” The original was written by Bob Thomas but it was made self-replicating by Ray Tomlinson thus basically making him the father of the worm. He also happened to make the first email program. You know that @ symbol in an email address? He put it there. Luckily he didn't make that self replicating as well.  The first antivirus software was written to, um, to catch Creeper. Also written by Ray Tomlinson in 1972 when his little haxie had gotten a bit out of control. This makes him the father of the worm, creator of the anti-virus industry, and the creator of phishing, I mean, um email. My kinda' guy.  The first virus to rear its head in the wild came in 1981 when a 15 year old Mt Lebanon high school kid named Rich Skrenta wrote Elk Cloner. Rich went on to work at Sun, AOL, create Newhoo (now called the Open Directory Project) and found Blekko, which became part of IBM Watson in 2015 (probably because of the syntax used in searching and indexes). But back to 1982. Because Blade Runner, E.T., and Tron were born that year. As was Elk Cloner, which that snotty little kid Rich wrote to mess with gamers. The virus would attach itself to a game running on version 3.3 of the Apple DOS operating system (the very idea of DOS on an Apple today is kinda' funny) and then activate on the 50th play of the game, displaying a poem about the virus on the screen. Let's look at the Whitman-esque prose: Elk Cloner: The program with a personality It will get on all your disks It will infiltrate your chips Yes, it's Cloner! It will stick to you like glue It will modify RAM too Send in the Cloner! This wasn't just a virus. It was a boot sector virus! I guess Apple's MASTER CREATE would then be the first anti-virus software. Maybe Rich sent one to Kurt Angle, Orin Hatch, Daya, or Mark Cuban. All from Mt Lebanon. Early viruses were mostly targeted at games and bulletin board services. Fred Cohen coined the term Computer Virus the next year, in 1983.  The first PC virus came also to DOS, but this time to MS-DOS in 1986. Ashar, later called Brain, was the brainchild of Basit and Amjad Farooq Alvi, who supposedly were only trying to protect their own medical software from piracy. Back then people didn't pay for a lot of the software they used. As organizations have gotten bigger and software has gotten cheaper the pirate mentality seems to have subsided a bit. For nearly a decade there was a slow roll of viruses here and there, mainly spread by being promiscuous with how floppy disks were shared. A lot of the viruses were boot sector viruses and a lot of them weren't terribly harmful. After all, if they erased the computer they couldn't spread very far. The virus started “Welcome to the Dungeon.” The following year, the poor Alvi brothers realized if they'd of said Welcome to the Jungle they'd be rich, but Axl Rose beat them to it. The brothers still run a company called Brain Telecommunication Limited in Pakistan. We'll talk about zombies later. There's an obvious connection here.  Brain was able to spread because people started sharing software over bulletin board systems. This was when trojan horses, or malware masked as a juicy piece of software, or embedded into other software started to become prolific. The Rootkits, or toolkits that an attacker could use to orchestrate various events on the targeted computer, began to get a bit more sophisticated, doing things like phoning home for further instructions. By the late 80s and early 90s, more and more valuable data was being stored on computers and so lax security created an easy way to get access to that data. Viruses started to go from just being pranks by kids to being something more.  A few people saw the writing on the wall. Bernd Fix wrote a tool to remove a virus in 1987. Andreas Luning and Kai Figge released The Ultimate Virus Killer, an Antivirus for the Atari ST. NOD antivirus was released as well as Flushot Plus and Anti4us. But the one that is still a major force in the IT industry is McAfee VirusScan, founded by a former NASA programmer named John Mcafee. McAfee resigned in 1994. His personal life is… how do I put this… special. He currently claims to be on the run from the CIA. I'm not sure the CIA is aware of this.  Other people saw the writing on the wall as well, but went… A different direction. This was when the first file-based viruses started to show up. They infected ini files, .exe files, and .com files. Places like command.com were ripe targets because operating systems didn't sign things yet. Jerusalem and Vienna were released in 1987. Maybe because he listened to too much Bad Medicine from Bon Jovi, but Robert Morris wrote the ARPANET worm in 1988, which reproduced until it filled up the memory of computers and shut down 6,000 devices. 1988 also saw Friday the 13th delete files and causing real damage. And Cascade came this year, the first known virus to be encrypted. The code and wittiness of the viruses were evolving.  In 1989 we got the AIDS Trojan. This altered autoexec.bat and counted how many times a computer would boot. At 90 boots, the virus would hide the dos directories and encrypt the names of files on C:/ making the computer unusable unless the infected computer owner sent $189 a PO Box in Panama. This was the first known instance of ransomeware. 1990 gave us the first polymorphic virus.  Symantec released Norton Antivirus in 1991, the same year the first polymorphic virus was found in the wild, called Tequila. Polymorphic viruses change as they spread, making it difficult to find by signature based antivirus detection products. In 1992 we got Michelangelo which John Mcafee said would hit 5 million computers. At this point, there were 1,000 viruses. 1993 Brough us Leandro and Freddy Krueger, 94 gave us OneHalf, and 1995 gave us Concept, the first known macro virus. 1994 gave us the first hoax with “Good Times” - I think of that email sometimes when I get messages of petitions online for things that will never happen.  But then came the Internet as we know it today. By the mid 90s, Microsoft had become a force to be reckoned with. This provided two opportunities. The first was the ability for someone writing a virus to have a large attack surface. All of the computers on the Internet were easy targets, especially before network address translation started to somewhat hide devices behind gateways and firewalls. The second was that a lot of those computers were running the same software. This meant if you wrote a tool for Windows that you could get your tool on a lot of computers. One other thing was happening: Macros. Macros are automations that can run inside Microsoft Office that could be used to gain access to lower level functions in the early days. Macro viruses often infected the .dot or template used when creating new Word documents, and so all new word documents would then be infected. As those documents were distributed over email, websites, or good old fashioned disks, they spread.  An ecosystem with a homogenous distribution of the population that isn't inoculated against an antigen is a ripe hunting ground for a large-scale infection. And so the table was set. It's March, 1999. David Smith of Aberdeen Township was probably listening to Livin' La Vida Loca by Ricky Martin. Or Smash Mouth. Or Sugar Ray. Or watching the genie In A Bottle video from Christina Aguilera. Because MTV still had some music videos. Actually, David probably went to see American Pie, The Blair Witch Project, Fight Club, or the Matrix then came home and thought he needed more excitement in his life. So he started writing a little prank. This prank was called Melissa.  As we've discussed, there had been viruses before, but nothing like Melissa. The 100,000 computers that were infected and 1 billion dollars of damage created doesn't seem like anything by todays standards, but consider this: about 100,000,000 PCs were being sold per year at that point, so that's roughly one tenth a percent of the units shipped. Melissa would email itself to the first 50 people in an Outlook database, a really witty approach for the time. Suddenly, it was everywhere; and it lasted for years. Because Office was being used on Windows and Mac, the Mac could be a carrier for the macro virus although the payload would do nothing. Most computer users by this time knew they “could” get a virus, but this was the first big outbreak and a wakeup call.  Think about this, if there are supposed to be 24 billion computing devices by 2020, then next year this would mean a similar infection would hit 240 million devices. That would mean it hits ever person in Germany, the UK, France, and the Nordic countries. David was fined $5,000 and spent 20 months in jail. He now helps hunt down creators of malware.  Macroviruses continued to increase over the coming years and while there aren't too many still running rampant, you do still see them today. Happy also showed up in 1999 but it just made fireworks. Who doesn't like fireworks? At this point, the wittiness of the viruses, well, it was mostly in the name and not the vulnerability. ILOVEYOU from 2000 was a vbscript virus and Pikachu from that year tried to get kids to let it infect computers.  2001 gave us Code Red, which attacked IIS and caused an estimated $2 Billion in damages. Other worms were Anna Kournikova, Sircam, Nimda and Klez. The pace of new viruses was going, as was how many devices were infected. Melissa started to look like a drop in the bucket. And Norton and other antivirus vendors had to release special tools, just to remove a specific virus.  Attack of the Clones was released in 2002 - not about the clones of Melissa that started wreaking havoc on businesses. Mylife was one of these. We also got Beast, a trojan that deployed a remote administration tool. I'm not sure if that's what evolved into SCCM yet.  In 2003 we got simile, the first metamorphic virus, blaster, sobbing, seem, graybeard, bolgimo, agobot, and then slammer, which was the fastest to spread at that time. This one hit a buffer overflow bug in Microsoft SQL and hit 75,000 devices in 10 minutes. 2004 gave us Bagle, which had its own email server, Sasser, and MyDoom, which dropped speeds for the whole internet by about 10 percent. MyDoom convinced users to open a nasty email attachment that said “Andy, I'm just doing my job, nothing personal.” You have to wonder what that meant… The witty worm wasn't super-witty, but Netsky, Vundo, bifrost, Santy, and Caribe were. 2005 gave us commwarrior (sent through texts), zotob, Zlob, but the best was that a rootlet ended up making it on CDs from Sony. 2006 brought us Starbucks, Nyxem, Leap, Brotox, stration. 2007 gave us Zeus and Storm. But then another biggee in 2008. Sure, Torpig, Mocmex, Koobface, Bohmini, and Rustock were a thing. But Conficker was a dictionary attack to get at admin passwords creating a botnet that was millions of computers strong and spread over hundreds of countries. At this point a lot of these were used to perform distributed denial of services attacks or to just send massive, and I mean massive amounts of spam.  Since then we've had student and duqu, Flame, Daspy, ZeroAccess. But in 2013 we got CryptoLocker which made us much more concerned about ransomware. At this point, entire cities can be taken down with targeted, very specific attacks. The money made from Wannacry in 2017 might or might not have helped developed North Korean missiles. And this is how these things have evolved. First they were kids, then criminal organizations saw an opening. I remember seeing those types trying to recruit young hax0rs at DefCon 12. Then governments got into it and we get into our modern era of “cyberwarfare.” Today, people like Park Jin Hyok are responsible for targeted attacks causing billions of dollars worth of damage.  Mobile attacks were up 54% year over year, another reason vendors like Apple and Google keep evolving the security features of their operating systems. Criminals will steal an estimated 33 billion records in 2023. 60 million Americans have been impacted by identity theft. India, Japan, and Taiwan are big targets as well. The cost of each breach at a company is now estimated to have an average cost of nearly 8 million dollars in the United States, making this about financial warfare. But it's not all doom and gloom. Wars in cyberspace between nation states, most of us don't really care about that. What we care about is keeping malware off our computers so the computers don't run like crap and so unsavory characters don't steal our crap. Luckily, that part has gotten easier than ever.