Podcasts about AOL

professorjrod@gmail.comRemember the thrill of logging on, the greeting of “You've got mail,” and the sense that a whole new world lived behind a phone line? We go back to the moment when America Online turned the internet from a niche hobby into a daily ritual—then trace how that same empire struggled to adapt when broadband, search, and mobile changed the rules overnight.We start with Quantum Link, the Commodore-era service that quietly sketched the social web before the web existed: avatars, chat rooms, message boards, and downloadable content. That people-first insight shaped AOL's rise. With a friendly interface, big buttons, keywords, and the most aggressive distribution strategy in tech history—those omnipresent CDs—AOL onboarded a generation. Chat rooms ignited communities and culture; AIM taught presence, status, and direct messaging; AOL News, Sports, Music, Games, and Hometown made dial-up feel like a full digital city. Behind the scenes, the company wrestled with an unprecedented scaling problem—millions of concurrent dial-up calls and a nationwide modem network—leading to the infamous busy-signal crisis that defined an era.Then the tides turned. Always-on broadband undercut AOL's dial-up economics, the AOL–Time Warner merger collided with culture shock and the dot-com crash, and search engines—especially Google—rewired how people discovered information. AIM's early dominance faded as messaging moved to mobile with encryption, identity, and cross-device sync. We lay out the timeline, the missteps, and the strategic blind spots, but also the innovations that still shape today's internet: social graphs from buddy lists, status updates from away messages, curated portals evolving into modern feeds, and growth driven by simple design and relentless distribution.If you want the real story of how the web became social—and a clear look at what happens when a platform shift meets a company built for the previous wave—this journey through AOL's rise, reign, and reckoning is for you. Subscribe, share with a friend who once lived on AIM, and tell us your first screen name in a review.Pure Tested PeptidesPremium Peptides for Longevity, muscle growth , weight lossInstacart - Groceries delivered in as liFree delivery on your first order over $35.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showArt By Sarah/DesmondMusic by Joakim KarudLittle chacha ProductionsJuan Rodriguez can be reached atTikTok @ProfessorJrodProfessorJRod@gmail.com@Prof_JRodInstagram ProfessorJRod

Justin Bieber BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Justin Bieber has been in the headlines this week not for a new song but for a very relatable tech rant. According to AOL and India Today, Bieber took to social media on Friday to vent about the iPhone's iMessage dictation button, saying if he hits it one more time and it stops his music, he's going to “find everyone at Apple and put them in a rear naked choke hold.” He shared a screenshot showing how the send button and dictation or voice note controls sit too close together, calling it bad design and insisting the send button shouldn't have multiple functions in one spot. His frustration clearly hit home, because the post went viral, with thousands of users agreeing they suffer the same accidental taps. Elon Musk reshared Bieber's post with two fire emojis, and Ian Silber, head of product design at OpenAI, joked that Bieber is officially invited to their weekly design critiques. India Today notes this isn't the first time Bieber has complained about iMessage interrupting his music, and his public criticism is now amplifying a long-standing user complaint that Apple may finally have to address.Meanwhile, Bieber's been spotted in Tokyo over the past few days. A YouTube short from December 5 shows him at the 1 OAK TOKYO nightclub, and another clip from December 3 captures him and Hailey Bieber at a café in the city. These sightings suggest the couple is enjoying some downtime in Japan, though no official reason for the trip has been confirmed.On the business front, there's no new announcement this week, but AOL's coverage of his Apple rant also touches on his broader role as a high profile user whose feedback now carries weight in tech circles, especially as Apple faces leadership changes and increased competition from OpenAI and Meta.That's all for now. Thanks for tuning in. Come back next week for more. This has been a Quiet Please production, and for me, check out Quiet Please Dot A I.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

In this episode we explore the importance of timing, simplicity, and passion in crossing the chasm from early adopters to mass market adoption for any company or product. We also talk about personal branding and storytelling in business success.TakeawaysThe importance of timing in market adoption is crucial for success.Simplicity in product and message helps in crossing the chasm.Passion of the founder is key to engaging customers and building trust.Personal branding and owning your domain are essential in today's digital age.Podcasts are a powerful medium for entrepreneurs to share their stories.Taking photos with others can help expand your network and reach.The cascade theory emphasizes the need for a product to be easily shareable.Entrepreneurs should focus on grassroots marketing strategies.Building a business with passion can lead to success without large budgets.About Jim JamesJim has spent over 25 years running his own PR and Marketing Firm, EastWest Public Relations. He sold his firm and now helps Founders/Entrepreneurs get noticed in the noisy world we live in.You can find him and his podcast, the Unnoticed Entrepreneur at: https://www.jimajames.com CONNECT WITH USGet Your Weekly EDGE Newsletter. It's FREE.Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF)Brandon writes a weekly email newsletter called EDGE that over 22,000 people rely on for an edge to achieve their best selves in business and life.ContentBrandon writes about what he knows...lessons from 2x exits, 20+ strike outs Venture Capital, Marketing at AOL, writing a #1 Amazon Best Seller, Podcasting, Angel Investing, Philanthropy, Public service, Fitness and peak performance.Who it's forPeople that want to achieve their full potential.Claim your edge with others who have been getting a step ahead. Link to sign up: https://edge.ck.page/bea5b3fda6 A Podcast for entrepreneurs and peak performersPart of the Best Podcast Network: Productivity Podcast, Marketing Podcast, Business Plan Podcast, 401k Podcast, Car Accident Lawyer Podcast,

This one is soooo fun - I get to sit down with my LONG TIME friend Ellen to trace her journey from AOL days to co-founding a Row House franchise. We discuss moving back home, balancing family and full-time jobs, franchise training, and the delay and pivot caused by COVID. The episode highlights building community through boutique fitness, staff development, local impact, and perseverance as Ellen and her husband grow two studios while staying committed to members and their team.   I just love this family and all they do! Please give @rowhouseashburn a follow on the socials and get in for a community ROW!   

From negotiating on the phone for some art to generating 10 Billion dollars a year, Pierre Omidyar built an empire out of other peoples stuff. Dave Young: Welcome to the Empire Builders Podcast, teaching business owners the not-so-secret techniques that took famous businesses from mom-and-pop to major brand. Stephen Semple is a marketing consultant, story collector and storyteller. I’m Stephen’s sidekick and business partner, Dave Young. Before we get into today’s episode, a word from our sponsor which is, well, it’s us, but we’re highlighting ads we’ve written and produced for our clients. So here’s one of those. [Travis Crawford Ad] Dave Young: [inaudible 00:01:32] and sold. eBay is the topic today. Oh, by the way, welcome to the Empire Builders Podcast. I’m Dave Young, that’s Steve Semple in your other ear. Is that how this works, are we each in one ear? Stephen Semple: I’m not sure. Dave Young: I don’t think that’s how this works. Stephen Semple: I don’t pay enough attention to things like that. Dave Young: As the countdown timer went down, Stephen told me we’re going to talk about eBay and I went immediately to the sound of the auctioneers of my youth back in my hometown. Stephen Semple: Oh, God. Dave Young: There’s cattle sales and estate sales. On any Saturday morning walking around in a small town, off in the distance you hear somebody with one of those cheap portable PA systems, “Give me five, give me five, give me five, give me five, five, five.” Aren’t you glad that eBay doesn’t have sound effects? Stephen Semple: Maybe it should. It might make it more entertaining. Dave Young: There’s some AI auctioneer going 24/7 for two weeks. Stephen Semple: Oh, my God, Dave, the fact you’ve now said it, you know what meme is going to happen. Oh, no, you put it out there. So when you come across this as a meme- Dave Young: There’s that little mute thing on the screen where if you turn it on, there’s some AI, “We’ve got $12.50. Since Tuesday, we have $12.50. Anyone, anyone?” Stephen Semple: So when this meme is driving us nuts on social media, you can blame Dave Young. Dave Young: I don’t see it happening. Oh, yeah, back. Oh, we’re going to talk about eBay. Stephen Semple: But talking about auctions for a second, here’s what I always find fascinating. Somebody will have something and they’ll go, “Okay, do I have an opening bid of $500?” Nothing. “Okay, do I have an opening bid at $200? Now do I have an opening bid of $100?” Somebody bids for 100 and then the damn thing ends up selling for 750. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: And I’m like, “Wait a minute. It sold for 750 and no one was willing to open at 500. What the heck?” I don’t get it. Dave Young: I know. There’s a … Man, I’m not a big auction person. It stresses me to be in the bidding war. Stephen Semple: Right. Dave Young: I don’t know why. Even on eBay. Stephen Semple: Right. Dave Young: But there’s a psychology of auctions- Stephen Semple: Clearly. Dave Young: … that certain people … I don’t know for sure, I’m not a psychologist, Stephen, but I play one on a podcast. I think there’s a compulsion that’s similar to gambling and I think it’s just there’s a dopamine hit involved when you’re active in an auction. Stephen Semple: There probably is. Dave Young: And I think there’s a bit of a compulsion to it maybe. Stephen Semple: Maybe. Dave Young: Because it also, as long as you have the money to do it, it’s probably a little safer than gambling because if you lose, you don’t lose then. Stephen Semple: Right, right. Dave Young: If you win, hopefully you’ve won and purchased something that’s worth more than you paid. Stephen Semple: Right. Dave Young: That’s the upside. The downside is that you didn’t get the thing that you wanted. Stephen Semple: Right. Dave Young: But you didn’t lose any money. Stephen Semple: Cool. Well, let’s talk about eBay. Dave Young: Let’s do. Wasn’t Musk involved in it, and Thiel and those guys? Stephen Semple: No. Dave Young: Or am I thinking wrong? Stephen Semple: You’re thinking wrong. Dave Young: I get all my American oligarchs confused. Stephen Semple: They were over in the PayPal world. Dave Young: Okay. Stephen Semple: But the thing that’s interesting about eBay is it’s still a really important player in online retail. We can kind of forget about it because the growth has been stalled a little bit in the last bunch of years, but they still do $10 billion- Dave Young: That’s amazing. Stephen Semple: … in sales, which- Dave Young: I remember back when, probably in the first five or six years of eBay, you could use eBay, like if you had something you wanted to sell. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Dave Young: Not a garage sale, but just list somewhere to sell. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Dave Young: You could actually scour eBay and see what it was probably going to get you, what would be a good way to price it. That was always a way to see what are these going for? Stephen Semple: Right, because you could see what things were bidding at. So they are a really important part of the history of online retailing. And they were founded by Pierre Omidyar who was born in France to Iranian parents, and immigrated to the United States as a kid. And the company was founded in March ’96. And he had worked at a startup that he had got bought out from, he did pretty well. And he set up a consulting business called Echo Bay Technology Group, so that was the first thing he had going on. Dave Young: Echo Bay, okay. Stephen Semple: Echo Bay, Echo Bay Technology Group. And one day, a friend noticed that he had bought these bunch of drawings and was like, “Oh, tell me about these drawings.” And he was like, “Well, I saw them listed in the newspaper and I gave the guy a call, and we backed-and-forthed a few times, and I got a really good price on it.” And this was a seed of an idea. He was like, “You know what? There’s lots of stuff listed in newspapers and classified ads.” And if we remember, back in the day, going way back in the mid-’90s. Dave Young: Sure. Stephen Semple: The most profitable part of many, many newspapers was the classified ads. I remember being a portfolio manager and looking at one company called Torstar, it was a big newspaper group here in Canada. And yeah, literally, 25% of their revenue was classified ads. Massive part, massive, massive part of the business. But if you think about a classified ad, you’ve got to call up the newspaper, you’ve got to create the ad, you’ve got to send the ad over, and then somebody’s got to phone you, and then you’ve got to back-and-forth on price. There’s lots of friction there. There’s lots of touchpoints. Dave Young: Well, and you have to go pay the newspaper even before you could pay them online, right? Stephen Semple: Oh, right, you had to go … Yeah. Dave Young: You had to pay for that ad. I think most of those were probably in. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Dave Young: Unless the newspapers take a payment over the phone. Stephen Semple: So he looked at it and he went, “Not only is there all these touchpoints to creating the ad and paying for the ad, there’s all these touchpoints in terms of the selling process.” And he looked at it and he went, “I think there’s a way for technology to eliminate all of that, and it’s clearly a big business because people spend lots of money-“ Dave Young: Sure. Stephen Semple: “… on classified ads.” So this was the seed, this was the seed of the idea. How do I make this easier, frictionless, and all this other stuff for customers? So he decided, “Well, I’ve got this consulting webpage, I’ll just do a page on my consulting site. On Echo Bay Consulting Services, I’m just going to put a page in there and I’m going to play around with it.” Because what he wanted to do was eliminate the need to contact the newspaper, make it easy to write the ad, and then basically make it easier to make the sale, and he really felt the internet could do this. Dave Young: Sure. Stephen Semple: And he also wanted to facilitate the price negotiation because he felt like people don’t really want to do that whole back-and-forth. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: And the model he looked at was auctions. He went, “Wow, what if I could do an online auction site?” Because now, now the buyer and seller don’t have to have this conversation. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: And the marketplace will just set the price. Dave Young: And you know that they’re going to be paying attention as the time wears down. Stephen Semple: Yeah, all sorts of things with that. So he launches it with a really simple design, there’s no pictures or anything like that, which we look at that today. But then I thought about and I went, “Well, wait a minute, that’s not really a disadvantage,” because there was no pictures in the newspaper one either. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: So the whole idea of requiring a picture, we were used to doing this stuff without pictures through the newspaper classifieds. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: Yeah. So he sets up the site and he calls it Auction Web. And he launches it on September 3rd, 1995. Dave Young: Okay. Auction Web. Stephen Semple: Sorry, I said the wrong date. I said the wrong date earlier, the date was when it really started making sales. But Auction Web launches September 3rd, 1995, not March ’96. He decides to do a test, and this is people of … This has test has been written up a whole pile of times. He’s looking around, he’s got this broken laser pointer. Dave Young: A broken laser pointer. Stephen Semple: It’s broken. Dave Young: Okay. Stephen Semple: And on the ad he even says, “This is broken.” And he puts it up and it sells after a few weeks for $14.83. Dave Young: Sweet. Better than throwing it away. Stephen Semple: He even calls the bidder because he’s like, “I got to make sure this guy know it’s broken. I don’t want to send this to him and have him ticked off.” And he goes, “Yeah, I know it’s broken, but I know how to fix these things and it’s cheaper to fix it.” So he’s like, “All right, I’ll send you my broken laser pointer.” So he starts advertising, he starts going to all these chat rooms because remember, this is back in the mid-’90s and there was these chat rooms all over the place. So he would be going to these chat rooms and he was promoting Auction Web on chat rooms. Now, the other thing he changed was newspapers would charge a fee to list. So the other friction point with people was, “It’s still going to cost me five bucks, whether this sells or not.” Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: So he said, “There’s going to be no fee to list. What you’re going to do is you’re going to pay me a commission when it sells.” So he removed the fee, he replaced it with a commission. Now, here’s the crazy thing. Here’s the crazy thing. The commission was collected on the honor system. People mailed in the payments. Dave Young: Really? Stephen Semple: Yes. Dave Young: Stay tuned, we’re going to wrap up this story and tell you how to apply this lesson to your business right after this. [Using Stories To Sell Ad] www.UsingStoriesToSell.com Dave Young: Let’s pick up our story where we left off, and trust me, you haven’t missed a thing. Stephen Semple: Here’s the crazy thing. Here’s the crazy thing. The commission was collected on the honor system. People mailed in the payments. Dave Young: Really? Stephen Semple: Yes. Dave Young: He was I guess then not coordinating the payment either? Stephen Semple: Not at that point. Dave Young: So you sell something to me on eBay, I just get back with you and pay you, and then you ship it to me? Stephen Semple: Yeah. Dave Young: But you found your buyer. You were using the auction site to find your buyer. Stephen Semple: You were using the auction to find the buyer, the buyer paid you directly, you shipped it directly to the buyer, and then you would send me a payment for the commission because you go, “I owe Auction Web four bucks.” And it worked. They found most people paid. Most people paid. Now, I think what they also figured out- Dave Young: I would guess that the ones that didn’t, maybe the sale falls through or something. Stephen Semple: Right. Well, and I think the other thing they figured out is for a lot of people, especially sellers, they probably weren’t one-time sellers, so they also wanted to continue to potentially … Anyway. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: I just found it hurt my brain a little bit when I was like, “Really, that’s how it ran?” Dave Young: Yeah, wow. Stephen Semple: And it worked, and it’s nice to feel like things like this can happen. So in March 1996, they hit $1000 in revenue for the month. By May, it’s 5000. Dave Young: Okay. Stephen Semple: By October, they’re doing 1000 auctions a day. This thing when it took off- Dave Young: It took off like wildfire. Stephen Semple: Just took off like fricking wildfire. And Pierre realizes, “Man, I got a real business here and I really didn’t want to run a business. I’m a tech guy.” So he hires Jeffrey Skoll to be the president. He just goes out almost right away and hires him because he’s like, “This thing is going to the Moon.” Now, think about this. This site is hard to find. It’s still a page on Echo Bay Technology Group’s website. Dave Young: Oh, man. And it’s called Auction Web, or something. Stephen Semple: And it’s called Auction Web. So the first thing they realize is, “We got to change that.” And they go to get echobay.com and echobay.com is taken by a Canadian mining company. Dave Young: Oh, okay. Stephen Semple: So they shorten it to eBay. Dave Young: eBay. Stephen Semple: Which I actually think is in a lot of ways- Dave Young: Which is better anyway. Stephen Semple: It is better. It is better. Dave Young: Yeah, it’s four letters. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Dave Young: Try to buy yourself a four-letter domain name these days. Stephen Semple: So in September ’97, it changes from the wonderful name of Auction Web to eBay. Dave Young: And gets its own domain, yeah. Stephen Semple: Yeah, and it gets its own domain. Now at this time, it’s mostly tech nerds looking for parts, that’s really what got it going. If you think about it, that also makes sense because he’s going to those early chat sites on the web. Dave Young: Those are the people that were online early. Stephen Semple: Well, it is. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: It was, and especially where you’re promoting it going to these chat groups. That would be mainly nerds in there. But what they figure out is they do want to make this a little bit more of a mass appeal. So they wanted to find things that were products that people already want, but were hard to get their hands on. And what they figured out was they wanted to do Beanie Babies. Dave Young: Oh, there you go. Stephen Semple: Because what they discovered was there was a community of Beanie Babies, collectors of Beanie Babies. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: So they reached out to them and because, let’s face it, they were limited number, they were not sold everywhere, and collectors loved them. So they actually created an auction category for this toy alone. They created a category for Beanie Babies. And very quickly, they sold $500,000 worth of Beanies Babies almost right out of the gate. Dave Young: Man. You know where my brain’s going with this? Stephen Semple: No, I don’t. Dave, I never know where your brain is going. Dave Young: Well, hang on. I rarely do. I know a little bit of the story of Beanie Babies, I think I watched the weird documentary or movie about it. But I’ll bet you this contributed to the demise of the Beanie Baby craze because now you could actually see the value of your Beanie Baby. Stephen Semple: Oh, maybe. Maybe. Dave Young: Right? You put your Beanie Baby on and, “Oh, God, it didn’t sell for as much as I thought it was worth.” And it turns out that you also just found a million other, yeah, you found a million other people that have one. Stephen Semple: Right. Dave Young: And you’re like, “Maybe this isn’t as valuable as I thought it was.” Stephen Semple: Maybe. That’s an interesting … Interesting. Dave Young: Whereas if you’re only going to little craft fairs and get togethers, a whole different deal. I don’t know. Stephen Semple: Maybe. Don’t know. Dave Young: That’s worth studying. Go ahead. Stephen Semple: Yeah, that’s an interesting thought. So they created this category for Beanie Babies and it explodes. So within four months, the whole collectibles part of the site- Dave Young: Oh, sure. Stephen Semple: … is just blowing up. By mid-1998, they have 750,000 users, which is a huge number. They’re rivaling AOL’s numbers in that day. They’re doing 400,000 auctions. Now, here’s the other thing that they discovered, the other innovation that they did, that they were the creators of. They were the first to do this. They would get people calling in complaining. So what they decided to do was create a feedback form that is public. Now, what made this one different, it was ranking the seller and ranking the buyer. Dave Young: Right, right. Stephen Semple: Which no one had done before. Dave Young: Yeah. You go into it and you’re a shitty buyer, so the seller says … Yeah. Stephen Semple: Yeah, “Be careful if you’re selling to this guy, or don’t buy from this person.” Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: And it was less about ranking the product, because everything before was about the product, but this was about the ranking of the buyer and the seller in a public format. Look, that’s one of the cornerstones of our whole review system today, much of it is person-to-person. Much of it is person-to-person. Dave Young: Yeah, yeah. Stephen Semple: And these guys innovated that and were the first to do that. So they’re really growing, they end up hiring Meg Whitman as CEO, and she really brought a strategy to the business which turned it into profitable business. And by fall of 1998, so you think about it, they’re just at it for a couple years, they end up going public at a $2 billion valuation. Dave Young: Amazing. Stephen Semple: The growth on them was really spectacular. And here’s the thing that I loved about this story is he bought something through the traditional manner. Saw it in the newspaper, bought it, and then looked at it and went, “The web is ideal for just making this,” I know we use the word friction, but I just prefer, “making this whole thing easier. I can make it easier to post. I can make it easier to sell because there’s less back-and-forth. I can just make this whole process easier.” Dave Young: Sure. Stephen Semple: “And I already know lots of people are doing it, it’s super profitable for newspapers. So clearly, lots of people are doing it.” I love that thought process. And I also love the fact that he ran an experiment. Let’s just do something and test this out. The other thing I really liked was once it got going and it’s in that niche, they immediately went, “What’s something I can do to expand across it?” And what they recognized was where this fit was with something that lots of people are doing, but is hard to connect people together. Dave Young: Yeah, yeah. Stephen Semple: Right? So what they actually recognized was we are actually a facilitator. Dave Young: Absolutely. Stephen Semple: “And what is something that we can facilitate? Collectibles. Where are we going to start? We’ll start with Beanie Babies. What the heck, that’s where we’ll start.” I thought that that was a really great starting point because their whole thing was, “How do we make things easier?” And I find not enough businesses think about the whole how do I make things easier for my consumer? How do I bundle things so it’s a fixed price? How do I do this? How do I do it? And any time a business makes things easier for the consumer, it wins. And look, eBay went from nothing to a few years being a couple billion-dollar business. Dave Young: Yeah, amazing. Stephen Semple: Yeah, and they’re still doing, as I said, 10 billion in revenue today. Dave Young: I rarely go there. Stephen Semple: Yeah, I don’t use them either. Dave Young: We sold some things on eBay years ago. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Dave Young: Right? We just said, “Oh, we have this stuff and we know that there’s people out there that want it.” I’m thinking of homeschool books that our kids are now grown. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Dave Young: That was a good place to list things like that. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Dave Young: Because you may not know somebody in town that’s got a kid the right age for it. Stephen Semple: Well, and today there’s more competition. You’ve got Facebook Marketplace. Dave Young: Absolutely. Stephen Semple: And I think Amazon has an auction site as well. There are other options, but clearly there’s still things eBay’s doing really correctly for them- Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: … to still, as I said, to be a $10 billion business. Dave Young: How much of what they do now is true auction versus just true commerce? Stephen Semple: You know what? I did not research the breakdown. I didn’t research the breakdown of that. Dave Young: Because when they put the buy it now button on. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Dave Young: You could list something and then let people bid on it, but you could also just say, “If it goes below this, I’m not selling it.” Stephen Semple: Right. Dave Young: Put a buy it now button up there and if it doesn’t sell, maybe relist it down the road. Stephen Semple: Again, and I think it’s more around this collectible space. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: I know there’s certain spaces that they are still pretty big on. Dave Young: It’s the place. Stephen Semple: And one of them oddly enough is auto parts. Dave Young: Okay. Stephen Semple: Let’s say you’ve got a ’65 Corvette and you’re looking for an old Corvette part, seemingly a pretty popular place to go is eBay. Dave Young: Okay. What if you have a ’65 Dodge Dart? Probably the same. Stephen Semple: Probably the same. Dave Young: Probably the same. Stephen Semple: Just one is really cool. Dave Young: Yeah, right? The parts are going to be a little rusty. Stephen Semple: And I’ll let the audience decide based on their preferences which one is really cool. Dave Young: That’s how the market- Stephen Semple: And let the argument begin. Dave Young: That’s how the market works. That’s how the marketplace works. Well, I’m glad to hear the story of eBay, Stephen. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Dave Young: Thank you for bringing it to the Empire Builders Podcast. Stephen Semple: Yeah, it was kind of fun. And you’re bidding at the beginning was awesome. Dave Young: Oh, thank you. Really, when I was young, I figured out that the way to emulate an auctioneer is just to make noise with your mouth and then rub your finger over your lips while you’re doing it. [inaudible 00:22:44]. That’s it, that’s it. Now you’re an auctioneer. Thanks, Stephen. Stephen Semple: Alright. Thanks, David. Dave Young: Thanks for listening to the podcast. Please share us, subscribe on your favorite podcast app, and leave us a big, fat, juicy five-star rating and review at Apple Podcasts. And if you’d like to schedule your own 90-minute Empire Building session, you can do it at empirebuildingprogram.com.

Justin Bieber BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Justin Bieber has been making headlines over the past few days with developments spanning his social media presence, personal life, and business ventures. According to The Hollywood Gossip, the pop star recently experienced a significant drop in Instagram followers, losing approximately 270,000 followers in what some are calling a mass unfollow. While this represents less than one percent of his 293 million followers, the sudden exodus has sparked considerable speculation among fans. Some attribute the decline to Instagram bot purges conducted by Meta, while others suggest active unfollows stemming from various factors including his transition to family life, fewer social media thirst traps, concerning behavioral patterns, and his posting of AI-generated content. In what many perceive as a direct response to the follower loss, Justin posted a selfie flipping off the camera, though he provided no context for the gesture.On a more positive note, according to AOL, Justin expressed pride in his wife Hailey's major business achievement. On May 28, Hailey announced that her skincare brand Rhode was acquired by e.l.f. Beauty for a staggering 1 billion dollars, marking a massive success in her entrepreneurial journey. Justin reportedly told sources that he has observed her dedication from the beginning and feels extremely proud of her accomplishment.In business developments, Hailey's Rhode brand has demonstrated impressive financial performance, generating 212 million dollars in net sales over the twelve months ending in March 2025, according to AOL. The brand was also named top skincare brand by certain media outlets in 2024.Meanwhile, Justin's own business ventures continue to evolve. According to AOL, he announced in April 2025 that he was ending his association with his fashion label Drew House, stating that it no longer reflects him, his family, or his life. He has since hinted at launching a new fashion line called SKYLRK featuring clothing and accessories, though no official release date has been announced.Additionally, Justin and Hailey were recently spotted together in Tokyo, Japan on December 2, 2025, suggesting the couple remains actively engaged in travel and public appearances despite ongoing tabloid speculation about their relationship status.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

How is one of the largest health systems in Texas using AI to transform patient experience? This episode of The Modern Customer Podcast explores how Memorial Hermann Health System is applying AI, predictive analytics, and digital tools to redesign care for millions of patients across Houston. The conversation features Alex Greengold, Chief Consumer Experience Officer at Memorial Hermann, who brings previous CX leadership experience from AOL and DISH, where he earned multiple J.D. Power awards. Watch the full conversation to see how AI, smart design, and culture are reshaping the future of care.

It's time to dive into the history of Gmail... but it didn't start with Google at all... In fact, it started very differently... Purrfectly, some might say. On this episode we discuss the strange phenomenon of Garfield Mail, the original Gmail. Then we pitch some ideas for making email better, reminisce about products from Google's past, get into movies in the MouthGarf Report, and play a rousing game of I See What You Did There.Sources:https://gizmodo.com/the-original-gmail-was-garfield-mail-1822970617https://historyandmystery.org/interesting-history/the-first-gmail-was-associated-with-garfield-the-cat/https://www.cracked.com/article_28656_4-wtf-tales-from-early-days-internet.htmlPlease give us a 5 star rating on Apple Podcasts! Want to ask us a question? Talk to us! Email debutbuddies@gmail.comListen to the archives of Kelly and Chelsea's awesome horror movie podcast, Never Show the Monster.Get some sci-fi from Spaceboy Books.Get down with Michael J. O'Connor and the Cold Family and check out his new compilation The Best of the Bad Years 2005 - 2025Next time: First Presidential Convention in Arkansas 

Justin Bieber BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Justin Bieber has made several headlines in recent days as the thirty-one-year-old singer continues to balance his personal life with new business ventures. Most recently, on November twenty-fifth, the Canadian artist was photographed urinating in bushes while golfing with friends in Palm Springs, California. According to multiple reports including Page Six and Marca, Bieber was seen drinking beer before the incident, which could potentially result in a one thousand dollar fine since public urination is classified as a misdemeanor in California and can carry penalties up to six months in jail.On a lighter note, Bieber made a fresh public appearance earlier this month when he shaved off his beard and debuted a clean-shaven face during Game Three of the two thousand twenty-five World Series at Dodger Stadium. The singer attended the event with his wife Hailey Bieber, wearing a Blue Jays jersey and enthusiastically cheering for the Toronto team. Multiple outlets including Just Jared and Rolling Stone covered the look change, noting that a new era of the beard-free Bieber had begun.In business developments, Bieber continues to expand his entrepreneurial portfolio. He has been teasing a new fashion line called SKYLRK on Instagram, sharing previews of apparel and accessories including sweatshirts, beanies, phone cases, sunglasses, and platform slide sandals in bold colors. According to AOL, the brand has been tagged in his bio, though an official launch date has not yet been announced and fans can sign up for notifications on the website. This venture comes as Bieber has seemingly stepped back from promoting his previous streetwear label Drew House, which he originally launched in twenty nineteen.Meanwhile, Bieber has expressed strong support for his wife's recent business milestone. When Hailey announced in May that her beauty brand Rhode was acquired by e.l.f. cosmetics for one billion dollars, a source told People magazine that Justin is beyond proud of his wife's achievement. The source noted that he has witnessed her dedication since day one and that Rhode was never just a side project for Hailey, who now serves as Chief Creative Officer and Head of Innovation.Additionally, upcoming tour dates show Bieber has performances scheduled for April twenty-ten and seventeen at the Empire Polo Field in Indio, California, indicating continued music career activity.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Justin Bieber BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Justin Bieber has been making headlines in the past few days with a mix of personal style changes, business ventures, and public appearances. According to IMDb, Bieber made a notable public appearance at the 2025 World Series, debuting a clean-shaven look alongside his wife Hailey Bieber. The couple cheered for the Toronto Blue Jays at Dodger Stadium, marking a fresh-faced era for the singer. Rolling Stone and The Hollywood Reporter also noted Bieber's enthusiastic support for the Blue Jays, including a playful thumbs-down gesture toward Shohei Ohtani.On the business front, AOL reports that Bieber is gearing up to launch a new fashion line called SKYLRK. He's been teasing apparel and accessories on Instagram, tagging @SKYLRK in his posts and adding the brand to his bio. While there's no official launch date yet, fans can sign up for updates on the SKYLRK website. This move comes as Bieber appears to have stepped back from promoting his previous streetwear label, Drew House.Bieber's support for his wife Hailey's beauty brand, rhode, continues to be a highlight. AOL notes that Justin is “beyond proud” of Hailey following the $1 billion acquisition of rhode by e.l.f. cosmetics. Hailey will now serve as Chief Creative Officer and Head of Innovation for rhode, with Justin sharing her announcement on his Instagram.In personal news, People magazine reported that Bieber made a brief appearance in Hailey's 29th birthday video, cheering her on. This comes amid ongoing speculation about his health and career, but no new official statements have been made.A less flattering story emerged from MARCA, which reported that Bieber was photographed urinating in public during a golf game in Palm Springs, California. The incident, while minor, drew attention due to the potential legal penalties for public urination in California.Overall, Bieber's recent activities reflect a blend of personal reinvention, business expansion, and continued public engagement, all of which are shaping his evolving public image.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Justin Timberlake BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Justin Timberlake has made headlines this week for both personal revelations and high-profile business moves. On July 31, Timberlake revealed on his official Instagram that he has been diagnosed with Lyme disease. He described the last leg of his music tour as fun, emotional, and physically grueling, saying that balancing touring and treatment was exhausting yet gratifying. He made it clear he wanted to shed light on what he had been facing behind the scenes. In the wake of his announcement, fans immediately offered waves of support, and his wife Jessica Biel had already posted a supportive message with family photos expressing pride and love for Timberlake and their sons. Biel's post drew hundreds of positive comments and underscored that she remains firmly by his side during this health battle, which could potentially have long-term impacts on his touring and professional commitments. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread by ticks, producing symptoms like fever and fatigue and sometimes requiring a lengthy recovery. These events have been widely covered, with AOL and other outlets highlighting both Timberlake's vulnerability and his family's support.In business, Community Impact reports Timberlake is set to open a second Twelve Thirty Club, this time in downtown Austin, Texas. Partnering again with restaurateur Sam Fox, the new multi-level club will blend signature Nashville offerings with Austin-inspired menus and live music, set in a beautifully restored historic building. Timberlake commented that working in Austin allows him to combine his passion for music, hospitality, and innovative design, aiming for an experience where the space and the sound are equally important. The project is slated for a late 2027 opening but is making news now for its scale and ambition as well as for Timberlake's vision.Financially, there are several reports circulating about Timberlake's net worth, with most major business and entertainment sources putting his fortune at around 250 to 350 million dollars. Despite this considerable financial standing, there was recently news from GolfWRX that he sold his eco-friendly Mirimichi Golf Course at a substantial loss, drawing both sympathy and critique from the business community.Finally, on the pop culture front, recent YouTube clips show his classic collaborations like “4 Minutes” with Madonna and Timbaland still trending. He also made headlines earlier this summer for canceling a New Jersey show due to an injury, in the weeks following a plea deal related to a June DWI arrest, as reported by AOL and others. Social media remains abuzz with fan messages of support, new music rumors, and commentary about his ongoing resilience amid a challenging year. All told, this stretch may well be a pivotal chapter in Timberlake's biography, with health, business, and family all in the spotlight.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Jo Jo Siwa BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.JoJo Siwa has packed the past week with headline-making appearances, business moves, and some memorable drama, signaling another busy chapter for the pop sensation. On the business and performance front, JoJo is set to light up Black Friday with a free noon concert at the Mall of America, debuting her brand-new holiday single “Message to the World (Little Drummer Girl),” as reported by 365 Twin Cities. Not only will fans experience her trademark high-energy performance, but VIP upgrades include signed holiday gifts, feeding both merchandise and fan engagement. This special event, set for November 28, lands amid a string of VIP dance class meet-and-greet appearances at major dance studios throughout the Midwest in the days that follow—Aspirations Dance Company in Illinois, Larkin Dance Studio in Minnesota, and CORE Dance in Omaha according to Eventbrite listings. Each session features choreography to her new song and exclusive signed merch, showing JoJo's direct connection with superfans and young dancers.JoJo's public life, of course, is never without social buzz and relationship drama. The “Dance Moms” alum's now-high-profile romance with British reality star Chris Hughes remains a hot topic, following their splashy red carpet debut at the Dancers Against Cancer Gala of the Stars last month in Beverly Hills, covered by AOL and Cosmopolitan. JoJo was honored with the Humanitarian Award for her decade of charity work, with Hughes presenting—cue plenty of red carpet PDA and affectionate posts to both their Instagram accounts. This marks a major personal and public milestone, making their relationship official in front of Hollywood's eyes. Notably, this gala appearance came after JoJo publicly confirmed her relationship with Hughes in The Guardian, describing it as “a beautiful connection,” and after their families were introduced backstage at her latest UK tour stops.Of course, headlines haven't all been rosy. JoJo was forced to address audience behavior during the European Infinity Heart Tour's opening night in Dublin, demanding fans stop distracting her boyfriend Chris Hughes with selfies during her show—a moment that quickly spread on TikTok and Just Jared. The relationship with Hughes itself remains under a social media microscope given its messy origin—JoJo's previous partner, Kath Ebbs, discussed on The Mitch Churi Chat Show podcast their emotional fallout and accidental matchmaking of JoJo with Chris, which led to negative fan backlash and drama that even involved JoJo's mother going after the Aussie podcaster online, as reported by Star Observer.Amid the noise, JoJo's media presence rolls on strong: she's scheduled for an appearance on “Live with Kelly and Mark” on November 28 and keeps her millions of Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube fans fed with behind-the-scenes content, event updates, and personal posts. Her brand collaborations and merchandising empire also hold steady, with hair bows and holiday gear featuring prominently in recent promotions. Current estimates peg her net worth at around fourteen million dollars according to several reputable entertainment profiles, reinforcing JoJo's position as not just a performer but a formidable business force.None of these developments show signs of slowing down JoJo's momentum. Each public appearance and social media moment, especially those tied to her evolving personal story and new music, continue to shape her image for years to come—with her star power and fan devotion only growing louder by the week.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

On Today’s Show: Tim kicks off Thanksgiving week by revisiting his dark past as an AOL “please don't cancel” ghoul, then dives headfirst into the rancid online worlds of dog-abusing TikTok goblins, neo-Nazi child recruiters, and Jeffrey Epstein's inbox cosplay. Plus: highway exhibitionism, old-school DV prank calls, and why Tim's eyeballs sometimes decide to go […] The post Dog Shit Facials and Neo-Nazis 4 Kids! first appeared on Distorted View Daily.

Justin Bieber BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Justin Bieber has kept the world's attention fixed squarely on him these past few days with a remarkable blend of fashion pivots, business intrigue, health challenges, and family milestones. The most viral moment came as the 31-year-old superstar arrived beard-free alongside Hailey Bieber at Game 3 of the 2025 World Series at Dodger Stadium. According to IMDb and Just Jared, this fresh-faced public appearance—cheering for his beloved Toronto Blue Jays—was widely interpreted as a reset for Bieber's image and quickly made him a trending topic across social media and entertainment sites. He wore a custom Blue Jays jersey, launched some playful shade at Shohei Ohtani, and reminded fans that he remains as comfortable in the front row of major sporting events as he is onstage.Simultaneously, Bieber's business world is buzzing. After announcing via Instagram Stories that he is no longer involved with his former streetwear label Drew House—stating it no longer reflects him, Hailey, or their life, a move confirmed by reporting from PEOPLE and detailed podcasts—he's focused on his new apparel and accessories line, SKYLRK. AOL and PEOPLE report that Bieber has teased the brand heavily on Instagram, showcasing pieces such as bold platform sandals, sweatshirts, and a notably similar phone case to that of Hailey's Rhode beauty line—fuel for both family synergy and some social media side-eye. So far, there's no official launch date for SKYLRK, but interested fans can already sign up for updates.On the personal front, Bieber and Hailey's family life has also been in the spotlight. The couple celebrated the birth of their first son, Jack Blues, in August 2024, and Hailey's own ambitions continue to ascend—E.L.F. Beauty acquired Rhode for a headline-making one billion dollars in May, as reported by PEOPLE and confirmed by business press. Hailey steps into new roles as chief creative officer and head of innovation for the merged brand.But not everything has been smooth sailing. Justin took a spill from his Onewheel electric skateboard and suffered a rib injury, which he described on Twitch as “gnarly” and still affecting his performance in both daily life and music rehearsals. With these hurdles, Bieber's inner circle, according to some unconfirmed tabloid reports, have voiced concern about personal and professional pressures mounting, but spokespersons have publicly refuted any serious financial or health crises.With Coachella 2026 on the horizon—where he will headline alongside Sabrina Carpenter and Karol G—Justin is preparing for an emphatic return to music, streaming his creative process and new material on social media and stoking rumors about a comeback album and world tour. Collaborators like producer Mk.gee confirm studio work is well underway. For Justin Bieber, a new era is beginning—marked by a clean face, a fashionable pivot, and, if industry insiders are right, a much-anticipated musical renaissance.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Justin Timberlake BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Justin Timberlake is making headlines again for business, family, music, and some fresh public intrigue. In one of the biggest developments, Timberlake and restaurateur Sam Fox jointly announced last week that The Twelve Thirty Club, their ambitious music-and-dining concept, will open a sprawling, multi-level location in downtown Austin by late 2027. Timberlake expressed excitement over restoring the historic building and crafting a live music space with Texas flavor, emphasizing how he intends to blend design and acoustics for a unique guest experience, a move that could position him as a major cultural player in Austin's evolving nightlife, as reported by Community Impact Austin.On social media, Timberlake and wife Jessica Biel have kept their marriage in the public eye, trading playful, loving messages that continue to endear them to fans. AOL featured their latest moment—a lighthearted compliment from Timberlake about Biel's curves, signaling ongoing harmony and media-driven interest in their celebrity romance.Financially, Timberlake retains impressive status. Multiple outlets, including JHU Innovations and Celebrity Net Worth, peg his net worth at somewhere between $250 million and $350 million thanks to a diversified portfolio spanning music, acting, investments, clothing lines, and restaurant ventures. However, he did reportedly take a substantial loss last week selling his Memphis golf course for just $500,000 after investing $16 million in eco-friendly renovations—an eye-catching business letdown with short-term sting but negligible long-term impact given his overall wealth and continued business successes, according to GolfWRX.Musically, Timberlake's influence remains as strong as ever. While no new music drop occurred this week, American Songwriter revisited his legendary 2015 CMA Awards duet with Chris Stapleton, underscoring his permanent stamp on genre-blending performances. Clips featuring “SexyBack” with Timbaland surfaced on TikTok and YouTube just days ago, continuing his run as a soundtrack staple among Gen Z and Millennial fans. Additionally, speculation is swirling about his next major entertainment move, with IMDb noting Timberlake's rumored appearance slated for a future Saturday Night Live, though official dates are not yet confirmed.Timberlake's reputation also remains subject to scrutiny, with Smart.dhgate and other outlets recapping legacy controversies that periodically resurface online. For now, the dominant narrative is about expansion—of his culinary empire, his happy home life, and his undimmed influence in music and entertainment. If this week's news is any indication, Justin Timberlake's icon status is not only secure but still growing.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Shakira BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Shakira has made headlines over the past several days, affirming her status as a global music icon with activity across music, film, and social media. Most notably Shakira stunned viewers during an interview with ABCs Janai Norman on November 20, where she discussed her return to voice acting for Disneys highly anticipated Zootopia 2. Shakira explained that reprising the pop superstar Gazelle was a family affair, with her sons involved behind the scenes, and she described how being part of such a beloved franchise aligns with her values and love for storytelling. According to Good Morning America, her warmth and candor resonated with viewers and signaled a renewed embrace of Hollywood beyond her music.The Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour remains the centerpiece of her current news cycle. After smashing records with three consecutive sold-out stadium shows in Ecuador earlier this month as reported by Digital Music News, Shakira continued her South American run with sold-out dates in Peru and Chile. Hola magazine reported that she shared rare Instagram photos exploring Lima while offstage, including candid moments at the Huaca Pucllana archaeological complex. These posts drove massive engagement from her over ninety-four million Instagram followers and provided an intimate window into her touring life.The scale of her popularity is evident in ticket sales and venue records. Wikipedia confirms that she set new benchmarks in Mexico City, performing twelve sold-out shows at Estadio GNP Seguros, more than any artist in a single tour at the venue. Billboard claims the tour has set the highest gross for any Latin female artist to date, with over 327 million dollars across sixty-four concerts and expectations to finish above 200 million for this run. Demand for tickets in Latin America consistently crashed pre-sale systems, and in Colombia and Mexico ticket demand has been described as unprecedented.Shakira's tour captured further industry attention for its innovations in stage design according to Live Design Online, with lighting legend Dan Norman lauded for creating a bold visual experience that highlights Shakiras charisma and voice. The technical spectacle has become a trending topic on music Twitter and fan-run TikTok accounts, with clips regularly going viral from each concert stop.Her financial strength also dominates industry talk. Jhu Innovations places her net worth above 300 million dollars, with earnings from not just music but endorsements and business ventures. Social media continues to buzz about her recent Met Gala appearance, where AOL described her massive powder-pink cape as one of the evenings most memorable looks, further cementing her stature as both a fashion and music influence.The past few days have seen Shakira make substantial impacts artistically and strategically. There has been no controversy or notable personal speculation in reliable sources; instead, the headline is clear Shakira continues to command the global stage with chart-topping performances, historic records, cinematic expansions, and a confident embrace of her cultural legacy.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Listeners, turning to the latest news and headlines about Sean Combs—known widely as Puffy or P Diddy—the past year has marked a dramatic fall from grace for the hip-hop mogul. In 2025, Combs has been entrenched in legal turmoil unlike anything he has faced before. His trial on sex trafficking and racketeering charges began in May, as detailed by Wikipedia's 2025 in hip-hop record. This highly publicized trial was a turning point, drawing in national attention and shining a spotlight on decades of speculation and past controversies surrounding Combs.By early July, Sean Combs was convicted on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, though he was acquitted of the most serious charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering. The verdict, as noted by Cinemablend, was widely discussed in the media. In October, Combs was sentenced to 50 months in federal prison and is now serving his term at FCI Fort Dix, a facility in New Jersey. According to reporting from AOL, Combs has adjusted to life behind bars and, notably, has been spotted socializing with other high-profile inmates during yard hours.The legal woes for Combs have not slowed down. According to a recent episode of the Hidden Killers podcast hosted by Tony Brueski, new allegations have surfaced—this time involving a reported sexual assault in 2020 that is currently under criminal investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. What makes this case particularly significant is its recency; the alleged incident falls in a period where digital evidence and timelines are meticulously documented, allowing investigators to cross-examine records in ways not possible with older cases. This new investigation could have far-reaching implications—especially as federal authorities continue to sift through seized electronics and other evidence obtained in earlier raids.Meanwhile, the public fallout has been swift and severe. Combs' businesses have crumbled, his properties have been raided, and his influence within the entertainment world has evaporated. He is no longer celebrated on television or in social circles—his legacy now overshadowed by the mounting legal battles and the charges he faces.As all of these developments continue to unfold, listeners are reminded that these investigations are ongoing and no new charges have yet been filed in Los Angeles. Prosecutors are known to be methodical, and with the amount of data available for recently reported cases, this new investigation could reshape Combs' future even further.Thank you for tuning in to this update on Sean Combs. Check back next week for more. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, visit Quiet Please Dot A I.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

For this Daytime Confidential Reflections special, episode 1188, Luke Kerr sits down with longtime Daytime Confidential contributor J. Bernard Jones for a straight shot of soap history, fandom and survival. J. Bernard opens up about the stroke he suffered in May and how laughing at the occasional scrambled word has helped him keep moving forward. J. Bernard remembers how he first found Daytime Confidential through the blog and became "a pure a-hole" in the comments before Jamey Giddens recruited him to write. He talks about launching J.F.Y., a glossy magazine for Black gay men that briefly thrived before collapsing with the ad market in the mid 2000s. J. Bernard traces his soap roots to watching The Edge of Night with his mother, the bombed honeymoon that hooked him, and how that led to a lifelong obsession with Procter & Gamble soaps, Santa Barbara and Guiding Light. He and Luke compare the old magazine wars and AOL chat rooms to today's forums tab on Google and social platforms. The conversation turns to Beyond the Gates and General Hospital, where they break down pacing problems, the weight of Ashley and Derek, the power dynamics in Martin and Smitty's relationship and whether the Drew shooting landed at the right time. Through it all, J. Bernard keeps one eye on corporate consolidation and one eye on the genre's future, arguing soaps still matter if the industry treats them like they do. EPISODE OUTLINE 00:00 – "Welcome to the Daytime Confidential 01:10 – "This past May I had a stroke and a little bit of weakness on my right side." 04:30 – "My first exposure to Daytime Confidential was through the blog." 08:30 – "J.F.Y. was actually targeted towards Black gay men, which I published in Brooklyn." 14:30 – "It was that one episode of The Edge of Night that really got me hooked." 20:30 – "Santa Barbara was the show. It was fresh. It was new." 27:00 – "Fan interaction has exploded in ways now that are very reminiscent of the early 2000s." 34:00 – "When I look at Beyond the Gates, my reaction to it has been relatively mixed." 42:00 – "I initially was a little pissed off about a Black man who's gay who's being automatically paired with a white guy." 50:00 – "I like where General Hospital is right now; I have a lot of problems with how they got here." 56:00 – "I think that Curtis's dad did it." 59:00 – "I really, really have loved my association with Daytime Confidential." All this and more on the latest Daytime Confidential podcast! Bluesky: @DCConfidential, LukeKerr, JillianBowe, Josh Baldwin, and Melodie Aikels. Facebook: Daytime Confidential Subscribe to Daytime Confidential on iTunes, Google Play, and Spotify.

Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been at the center of the Latin music world this past week, with headlines dominated by his sweeping success at the 2025 Latin Grammy Awards, his Super Bowl halftime show announcement, and a new album rollout that's already building major buzz. Listeners everywhere have been talking about his landmark win at the 2025 Latin Grammys, where Bad Bunny took home five awards—including the highly coveted Album of the Year for “Debí Tirar Más Fotos.” That's a significant first for him, as it marks his arrival in one of the major “big general” categories after previously winning only in rap and urban genres. In his acceptance speech, Bad Bunny paid tribute to Puerto Rico and dedicated his wins to the youth of Latin America, urging them to never forget their roots—something he reinforced throughout the album and in public appearances. NPR highlighted this as a moment that has shaped not only the year in Latin music but also conversations about cultural pride and identity. According to ideastream and the AP, performances from his new album, such as “DTMF” and “Weltita” with Chuwi, electrified the Grammy audience and social media alike.“Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” which means “I should have taken more photos,” has proven to be a deeply personal album. Reviews from multiple outlets describe it as a mix of nostalgia, reflection, and tributes to his Puerto Rican heritage. The themes of holding onto memories, processing heartbreak, and championing community pride have resonated strongly with listeners. Both “El Clúb” and the holiday single “Pitorro De Coco” have driven streams and conversation, with “Pitorro De Coco” reflecting on heartbreak amid holiday celebrations. Critics call this album one of his most introspective, showing new depth to Bad Bunny's artistic journey.Outside the awards and album rollout, Bad Bunny has also been confirmed to headline the upcoming Super Bowl halftime show. The NFL's announcement in September triggered a wave of excitement and conversation across social media, especially within the Latin community and beyond. Outlets like The Guilfordian and Japan Today describe this booking as a cultural milestone, underscoring Bad Bunny's influence in bringing Latin music to the global stage for major American audiences.Adding to the excitement, he announced that his sixth studio album, also titled “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” will officially drop on January 5, 2025. Music sites like NME and AOL shared details of a cinematic teaser trailer featuring Bad Bunny and legendary Puerto Rican filmmaker Jacobo Morales discussing the meaning of photos and memories in life. The trailer's contemplative tone signals that the album will dive even deeper into themes of remembrance and love for home, with an expected tracklist of 17 songs, including the already released singles “El Clúb” and “Pitorro De Coco.”This period also sees Bad Bunny's name in Hollywood headlines after his cameo in the trailer for Adam Sandler's “Happy Gilmore 2.” Meanwhile, his Most Wanted Tour ranked as one of the highest-grossing tours of 2024, pulling in over $210 million and cementing his status as a global superstar.Thanks for tuning in—come back next week for more updates on Bad Bunny and the world of music. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more from me, check out Quiet Please Dot A I.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Edgar Wright returns to theaters this week, and so do we! We're reviewing his big blockbuster update of THE RUNNING MAN before it loses all of its premium screens because no one is seeing it. Whyyyy? You can scrub directly to the review at 21:57 to hear our spoilery thoughts. But if you do, you'll miss us chatting about Heinz 57 and laughing like idiots about old AOL screen names. Good times. Oh, and speaking of idiots, Matt met William Shatner. It didn't go well. To hear all about his William Shatner experience, scrub ahead to 1:26:17. It's like My Dinner with Andre, only way lamer. My Evening with Bill. Anywho. Good to have you all back for "the podcaaaAAAAst." We're back on TikTok, follow us HERE. Wanna be on the show? Call us and leave a voicemail at (707) 948-6707. Visit our Linktree for more ways you can connect with us and connect with our show! Like & Subscribe to us on YouTube. Also be sure to visit the official Matt and Mark Movie Show Merch Zone on Teepublic. You can get your very own A.S.S.B.O.T. themed gear, like shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more! Use this link to shop the goods and help support our pod. Support our show through Blubrry: https://blubrry.com/services/professional-podcast-hosting/?code=GetRecd

In this edition Ashea is joined by Mat Pataki and Andreas Pohl from remote collaboration platform Sync DNA. Where they discuss how, Sync DNA is helping  audio professionals and artists get in the zone without being in the room together aka the 'Now' moment.About Our Guests:https://www.syncdna.com/ Mat: Chief Architect Mat Pataki is Chief Architect at SyncDNA™. He's built cloud platforms that serve millions of users at companies like Uken Games and Jam City. But he's also spent years in Toronto music studios on both sides of the glass—as an engineer and a performer. That combination of building massive-scale systems and actually living in professional audio workflows means he knows what creative professionals need, and how to deliver it.Andreas: Chief Architect Andreas brings deep expertise in audio and video networking software and scalable systems, with experience at internet pioneering companies like AOL and Yahoo. As Chief Architect, Andreas designs our core audio/video processing infrastructure, DAW/NLE integration, and hardware integration. Combined with his perspective as a practicing musician, this combination of engineering expertise and artistic insight makes him an ideal fit for SyncDNA. Talking Points:A bit about you and your background.What is Sync DNA and How did you form?Creating the “Now moment” - Synchronization & LatencySync DNA & Track RecordWhy choose Sync DNA?Finds of the week:Each week our guests share something they have found, (usually audio related but it doesn´t have to be; it can be anything from audio software to movies or even a jar of pickle): Mat:For live shows I've been using this Allen and Heath SQ-5 digital mixer. Its graphic EQ “fader flip” function is pretty amazing. Andreas:The Commoners Band

From Jeffy’s Online Books to everything from A to Z, Amazon.com is an empire amongst empires. Bezos created something remarkable. Dave Young: Welcome to the Empire Builders Podcast, teaching business owners the not-so-secret techniques that took famous businesses from mom-and-pop to major brands. Stephen Semple is a marketing consultant, story collector, and storyteller. I’m Stephen’s sidekick and business partner, Dave Young. Before we get into today’s episode, a word from our sponsor, which is… Well, it’s us, but we’re highlighting ads we’ve written and produced for our clients. So here’s one of those. [Pinpoint Payments Ad] Dave Young: Ding-dong. Okay. Well, I was making noises there as we started. Welcome to the Empire Builders Podcast. Dave Young here alongside Stephen Semple, and we’re talking about empires. I mean, businesses that started tiny and grew into behemoths, in this case, and often… Well, every time what we do is we let the countdown to the recording start, and then Stephen whispers in my ear today’s topic, and we see if I recognize it. Maybe perhaps I’ve heard of them. And today, he just said one word, Amazon. And I’m like, “Is that a river?” I mean, that’s what we all said back in the day when Jeff Bezos started it- Stephen Semple: Yes. Dave Young: … was, “Really, you named it after a river in South America? What are you thinking? What’s wrong with you?” But I guess he proved them wrong. Stephen Semple: What you’re going to discover, wasn’t actually the first name. Dave Young: Oh, cool. They started with a different name and then switched to Amazon. Stephen Semple: Jeffy’s Online Books? Dave Young: Well, and here’s the thing. We’re 200-and-some-odd episodes in, and we’ve managed to hold off not covering Amazon. That’s a good point. Yeah. Stephen Semple: And I resisted myself, because basically everything that’s to be said about Amazon has probably been said, but I did come across a couple of interesting little tidbits that we’re going to focus on- Dave Young: Oh, cool. Stephen Semple: … that I hope gives a little bit different picture to Amazon than the other things, people. Look, Amazon is a massive success, has changed the way the world is, was unbelievably innovative and forward-thinking. And today, Amazon does like 8,000 orders a minute. Dave Young: A minute? Stephen Semple: A minute. Dave Young: Unbelievable. Stephen Semple: Crazy, isn’t it? Dave Young: Mm-hmm. Stephen Semple: And Jeff Bezos is one of the richest men in the world, and Amazon is just a monster out there. But here’s the thing that’s also really interesting. Jeff Bezos did not come from technology or retail. And how often have we seen this over and over and over again, that these businesses are built by people from outside the industry? That is like 9 out of 10, or probably even more like 99 out of 100. He was an investment guy that was working in the early ’90s on Wall Street. That’s what he was doing. And he was making big bucks doing research in the technology space. So he was working in the space, but he wasn’t a tech guy or a retail guy. And he comes across this report about growth in the internet space. And he literally… It boggles his mind. He’s working away in Wall Street, comes across this report, and it says, the space is growing at 2300%. And he literally, as the story goes, picks up the phone, calls the analyst, and said, “There’s a typo here.” And they were like, “No, this is how it’s growing.” And he was like, “Oh my God.” Now, let’s think about this for a moment, because it’s easy to forget this. 1989 is when the first online transaction on the World Wide Web happened. Dave Young: I wouldn’t have thought it was even that long ago, but yeah. Stephen Semple: Yeah, yeah, but it was, like, one- Dave Young: Yeah. It’s ancient history now, but… Stephen Semple: We forget, we forget how much the growth is. And if you really want to go back, probably the best documentation of the growth we’ve had is episode 227 on AOL. Because AOL was really a driver of internet growth. It really was. It was really one of the pioneers that took people online. So to be looking at these things in the early ’90s and go, “Hey, I see growth in online retail,” that’s really forward-thinking. I’ve got to give Bezos credit. Not a lot of people were thinking that way. So he looks at this growth and he says, “There’s got to be potential to do a business in this space.” And that’s where he starts off. We’ve got to do a business in this space. So he does brainstorming ideas with his wife at the time, McKinsey, and they look at investment sites, they look at advice sites, but he decides it needs to be a store, because people shop every day. Everyone. It’s mass- Dave Young: An online store, yeah. Stephen Semple: It’s mass, it’s something we do all the time, it’s habitual, and he doesn’t want to do something that’s a niche. And it has no boundaries, and ideally you could remove a lot of the friction in shopping. But he realizes he can’t start that way. This is the other part where I thought he was brilliant. His vision was always online store, but he knew you can’t start as an online store. You can’t become known for being an online store. It’s too big. You need to pick one thing. Dave Young: But he had that vision long before he started selling books. Stephen Semple: The goal was to sell everything. Dave Young: Everything. Stephen Semple: But he knew that’s not where you start. And this is what I find interesting. It’s amazing how many startups I talk about have these massive visions, and it’s too big. You can have that massive vision, but you got to still start with something smaller. And that starting something smaller doesn’t limit you. Jeff Bezos has proven that. So he steps back in this point. He’s trying to figure out, “Well, what’s the one thing I want to do?” And he ordered a book called Cyberdreams by Asimov, and it took two weeks to arrive and arrived damaged. And the ordering process was a bit of a pain in the neck. And he went, “You know what? There’s an opportunity to do better here.” And at the time, the book business is very fragmented. There’s two big players, Barnes & Noble, and Borders. But they combined are only 25% of book sales. So still, most book sales are being done by little retailers. So it’s dominated by all sorts of little players, and they don’t do a good job of shipping books. So he says, “There’s the opportunity. Books is the opportunity.” He quits Wall Street where he is making like a million bucks a year, moves to Seattle to start the business, and he moves to Seattle because University of Washington at the time has got basically the top computer engineering school, Microsoft is there, so there’s lots of good engineers available. Dave Young: Gotcha. Stephen Semple: Hires a programmer, Shel Kaphan. And the first name of the company was not Amazon. It was Cadabra, as in- Dave Young: Cadabra. Abra. Stephen Semple: As in “Abracadabra, your book arrives.” Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: Name didn’t work well. People thought it was… Dave Young: Magic supplies, or- Stephen Semple: No. Well, they actually mistake it, Cadabra for cadaver. Dave Young: Yeah, that’s not good either, now that I think about it. Stephen Semple: So they needed a new name, and they had very much still the phone book mentality. Remember how everybody wanted to be listed first in the phone book? Dave Young: Sure. You start with an A. Stephen Semple: So you start with an A, and the first name that kind of came along that they thought they could do anything with was Amazon. Okay, yeah. You know, it’s [inaudible 00:08:32] a river, all this other stuff. So they just went, “Sure, let’s do Amazon. We can make that work.” Dave Young: Well, and the smart thing is he picked a… unless I’m wrong, he picked one word as the name. Stephen Semple: Yes. Dave Young: It wasn’t Amazon Booksellers. Stephen Semple: No, Amazon. Dave Young: Amazon Online Booksellers. Stephen Semple: Right, because he still had the vision — Dave Young: That’s limiting. Yeah. Stephen Semple: Right, because he still had the vision, “I’m going to do more than this, but I need to start with one thing.” So Amazon. Dave Young: So that vision dictates you find a name that is big enough to handle the vision. Stephen Semple: Yes. World’s biggest river, right? So it’s June 16th, 1995, Amazon goes live. They wanted to make it simple and easy to order books, and what would happen is they will get the sale, then they turn around and buy the book from the wholesaler, repackage the book, and ship it out to you. So they basically had no inventory. Dave Young: I was going to say, you could test the whole idea by just setting up your office near a brick and mortar bookstore and walking over and buying the book. Stephen Semple: Instead, they were buying the wholesale. Dave Young: Drop it in the mail. But they’re buying from wholesale, so there’s a little profit in it for them. That’s good. Stephen Semple: Yep. So the book would come in, they would repack it, ship it to the customer. So really, at first they had no physical inventory, but they had a list of a million books. They could basically sell any book that they could get from a wholesaler. And Amazon rolls out with this claim. They have the Earth’s biggest bookstore, which is really crazy. Any book store could claim that, because they all had access to the same million books. But I also love… There was a little bit of an unusual wording here. Dave Young: Stay tuned. We’re going to wrap up this story and tell you how to apply this lesson to your business right after this. [Using Stories To Sell Ad] Dave Young: Let’s pick up our story where we left off, and trust me, you haven’t missed a thing. Stephen Semple: I also love, there was a little bit of an unusual wording here, because you sort of expect it to be the world’s biggest bookstore, rather than the Earth’s biggest bookstore. Dave Young: Oh yeah, that’s a good point. Yeah. Stephen Semple: Right? And I think that really, again, the slightly unusual wording that fit but doesn’t fit sort of makes things stand out a little bit more. The first week, they do 13,000 in sales. Everybody’s working, boxing books, including Bezos in the early days, and they’re struggling to keep up. Like, it’s working. Then they get a call from Yahoo. So remember, at the time, Yahoo is the monster. Mid-’90s, Yahoo is the leading search engine by a country mile. And Yahoo had this thing that they would do. Each week, they would feature the hottest websites on their landing page. And they give Amazon a call and they say, “Hey, would you like to be featured?” Now, they’re struggling to keep up. Bezos says, “Yep. Keep the pedal to the metal.” So Amazon’s already behind in orders, but they go for it, because the whole idea is get big fast. In a month, they’ve got orders from all 50 states, 25 countries, but they don’t have the infrastructure to keep up, and they’re operating at a loss and growing. So in 1996, they arrange for $8 million investment and they start hiring and updating infrastructure. Now, this point, they get the attention of Barnes & Noble. Remember, Barnes & Noble is the biggest retailer at this time. The CEO meets with them, and he’s known as being kind of a bit of a ruthless guy. He tells Jeff that Barnes & Noble is going to launch their site and it’s going to kill them. So the alternative is sell to Barnes & Noble. Barnes & Noble basically says, “Bezos, we’re going to bury you.” Bezos says, “No.” But here’s where Bezos is smart. Basically, Barnes & Noble tipped their hand. So in May, 1997, Barnes & Noble launches their site, and it’s not bad, and it’s getting better, but the heads-up made Bezos realize he needed the capital to compete. So he had also arranged to go public. So when Barnes & Noble launched their site, Bezos went public, literally same month, May, ’97. And he raises $54 million. But what he realizes, to win, he now needs to stock inventory and do it quicker than Barnes & Noble. So he starts building warehouses. Then, what is the next natural thing to add to books? Movies, and music. Remember? Dave Young: Yeah, I’m just… Stephen Semple: Right, because movies were DVD, and music was CDs, right? Nice, natural add-on. Dave Young: And you’ve already got people competing in that space. Stephen Semple: Yes. Dave Young: You’ve got places that are selling CDs and shipping you movies, like Netflix. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: So it’s 1999, and he grows from 610 million to 1.6 billion, 170% growth with the addition of that. Now, here’s the problem. The dot-com bubble bursts, and lots of businesses fail. Investors are switching their focus away from growth. You know how there was that whole thing, burn rate, burn rate, burn rate, doesn’t matter, you don’t need to be profitable. Now all of a sudden, you got to be profitable. And Amazon’s still losing money. And Bezos is told by the board that he needs to make money, he needs to raise prices. This is what the board says. “Dude, you’re raising prices.” What does Bezos do? Announces he’s lowering prices across the board by 30% on everything. He stands against the board, because he says, “This is my opportunity to crush the competition and win.” It’s really interesting, the Monday Morning Memo this week, from Roy H. Williams. So we need to note, it’s October 6th, so any listeners should go back, mondaymorningmemo.com, October 6th. Read that because it’s really interesting what Roy wrote this morning. It’s write down this whole idea, that when things slow down, this is when the little guy can crush the big guys. Dave Young: The big guy, yeah. Stephen Semple: This is what he did. Bezos stood against the board, board, said, “Raise prices,” Bezos said, “No, this is my opportunity to put the foot down, put the hammer down, and win.” And that’s what he did. And guess what? Not only that, few quarters after doing that, they hit profitability for the first time, because they exploded the transactions. They killed their competitors in that moment. So I think the parts that came across interesting for me that I wanted to talk about when it comes to Amazon is this whole idea of he knew he wanted to do something big, but he knew he couldn’t start large. So he spent a lot of time thinking about what’s the natural thing for me to start with? And he looked for something that was fragmented, then it’s easy to go in, that was not being done well, but was already a fairly regular purchase, so he did books. And then in terms of the expansion, what’s something that has very similar characteristics to books? Movies, music. Dave Young: That people are already accustomed to purchasing online. Stephen Semple: Correct. Dave Young: And startup people will talk about the minimum viable product, or minimum viable service, right? Stephen Semple: Yes. Dave Young: And that’s sort of this. Stephen Semple: It is sort of, because he did it with no inventory. Dave Young: Sort of, but it’s not quite, though. Stephen Semple: Not quite. Dave Young: Because he wasn’t trying to make the minimum viable product or service. He was trying to find the entry path to something much, much bigger. Stephen Semple: Correct. Dave Young: When you have this idea for a business that, oh, we’re going to sell this thing online, or we’re going to do this service, and you just… When you think about minimum viable product, you’re forced to think small, and I think in some cases the risk is that you trim back that big vision. Stephen Semple: Yeah. He managed to hold- Dave Young: And you lose it. Stephen Semple: So there’s two areas where Bezos really showed his brilliance. And look, he’s shown his brilliance in so many different things. There’s whole books that have been written around his philosophies and whatnot. But these were the two that I thought have not been talked about before that I think we can all learn from as entrepreneurs, is he managed to hold those two ideas in his head, the long-term vision and the short-term thing he needed to do to get started. And he didn’t have the one limit the other. One, he was very clear, this one is the pathway to the other. But he was also okay to be known initially as a bookseller. He was fine with that. But he was able to hold those two contradictory ideas in his head and not sacrifice one for the other. And I think you’re right. A lot of people struggle with that, and he was brilliant at that. Dave Young: He was focused on it. Stephen Semple: He never lost sight of it. Dave Young: That’s a really good take on Amazon. I love this one. Stephen Semple: The other part is, and I think it’s particularly relevant for where we are today, is because there’s a lot of talk of consumer confidence slipping and things along that lines, is that he stood against his board. His board was like, “Okay, the tune of the day is we got to get profitable. You have to raise prices.” And what he knew is if he raised prices, this idea wasn’t going to work. And look, I’m not normally one saying, “Go lower prices. Go lower prices. Go lower prices.” But strategically, here’s what he knew at this point. His competitors were failing, his competitors were not making money, and his competitors had no more access to capital. This was the opportunity to destroy his online competitors. Dave Young: Yeah. Stephen Semple: The final nail… This is my opportunity to put my foot on their throat and win. Normally, a lowering a prices is not going to do that, but strategically in that moment, strategically in that moment, it was going to crush the competition. Dave Young: And he didn’t change the vision of the company to always be the low-cost supplier, right? It’s, like, that’s changed now. Stephen Semple: Right. Yes. Dave Young: You may find it for less on Amazon, but you may not. He didn’t make it as a strategy of focus on the company. Again, he made it as strategic decision for competition reasons. Stephen Semple: Correct. Dave Young: Which is what Walmart did, right? Stephen Semple: Correct. Dave Young: It’s just a similar story that’s not in the brick-and-mortar space. I love hearing this story. Stephen Semple: Yeah. And he took advantage of the moment. He saw that there’s this moment where this will work. There’s this moment in time where this will work, and I’m going to take advantage of this moment. Dave Young: And he became incredibly rich. Stephen Semple: Yes. Dave Young: Still is. And here’s, to me, the happy ending, okay? When he got divorced, his ex-wife got half of it, half of… I don’t know, half of Amazon, but half of all the money, at least, and she’s been given it away to charities and helping all kinds of people, not buying yachts. Stephen Semple: And look, and he didn’t fight it. He recognized her role. Dave Young: Yeah, yeah. Oh, sure. Stephen Semple: He recognized her role. Dave Young: No, [inaudible 00:19:52] full credit for that. Stephen Semple: It was not one of these drawn-out-in-court battles, because we didn’t hear anything about it. Dave Young: Yeah, and- Stephen Semple: So he did the right thing. Dave Young: Yeah, I think so. And she’s doing a great thing. Stephen Semple: Yes. Dave Young: Right? She’s clearly thought, well, yeah, “I can help a lot of people , still live a fantastic life.” Stephen Semple: I’d been resisting doing Amazon, although I felt like it’s hard to have a podcast like this and not talk about Amazon. Dave Young: It is. Stephen Semple: But I wanted to find a couple of things that I think just were a little bit different take, and a couple of things that we can really take away as business owners. And I like to call it the thin edge of the wedge strategy. What’s that starting point which you identified, that then you can pivot to the larger thing. And also, in the tough times, that’s your opportunity to become the leader. Dave Young: Okay. Well, that’s it for the giant, Amazon. Stephen Semple: Yep. Dave Young: You’re talking about an empire. Stephen Semple: Yeah. Dave Young: Next week, as marketers, we’ll be back to talking about the Apple 1984 commercial. No, we won’t. Thank you, Stephen. Stephen Semple: Thanks, David. Dave Young: Thanks for listening to the podcast. Please share us, subscribe on your favorite podcast app, and leave us a big, fat, juicy five-star rating and review at Apple Podcasts. And if you’d like to schedule your own 90-minute empire-building session, you can do it at empirebuildingprogram.com.

Peso Pluma BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Peso Pluma has continued his streak as one of the most watched and talked-about figures in music this fall, and this past week alone has delivered both spectacle and substance to his growing legend. LAist reports that earlier this week Peso Pluma performed two completely sold-out nights at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, drawing fans from all over Southern California, including first-timers and die-hards equally thrilled to see the Jalisco-born star up close. The event was a celebration of the crossover appeal of his corridos tumbados and cemented his status as a generational talent whose sound speaks to both tradition and youth culture. Fans interviewed outside suggested the concerts were a source of cultural pride and a clear sign that regional Mexican music has fully erupted into the American mainstream, with Peso described as the new icon representing the Latino experience at the highest levels.On the business side, AOL details how Peso Pluma's upward trajectory continues to impact the industry, with what's being called the “Peso Pluma Effect.” Executives and analysts now point to him as a primary force behind the explosion of regional Mexican music outside its historical audience. The acknowledgment from Variety and music trade publications this week underscores how his influence is causing, as a major headline put it, “the biggest shakeup of Latin genre marketing in decades.”Socially, Peso Pluma dominated L.A. headlines this weekend for a different reason—a playful, community-powered lookalike contest at Echo Park Lake, as covered by LAist's Brian de los Santos. The contest drew around one hundred participants and was a trending moment across local social media, further cementing Peso's current cultural dominance in the city. One winner told reporters she felt “Peso enough” to represent all fans, reflecting the deep community bond the singer inspires.Musically, Peso Pluma ended the week with the surprise release of a new single called Gervonta, named after boxer Gervonta Davis. According to Rolling Stone and IMDB News, the track dropped Thursday evening, marking Peso's first new song since his album Exodo. On Instagram, even Gervonta Davis himself amplified the release by sharing its cover art to his story. Lyrically, the song keeps with Peso's luxury themes, boasting about private jets and shiny watches—a nod to his now-global celebrity status.Though Peso did not win a headline award at last week's Latin Grammy Awards—Bad Bunny took home the top trophies according to the Associated Press—his omnipresence at key events keeps speculation high about future collaborations and possible award sweeps in 2026. There are no major confirmed controversies or scandals at this time. Unconfirmed posts continue to swirl about his love life, particularly regarding his previous breakup with Nicki Nicole, but no new explosive revelations have surfaced in official media the past few days.In all, Peso Pluma remains not just a top musical act but a bona fide cultural mover, blending pop stardom with community roots and shaping Latin music's new trajectory as the year races toward its close.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Ozempic continues to dominate weight loss conversations, with its effects and celebrity endorsements fueling public fascination over the past week. Headlines have focused on both the drug's growing popularity and nuanced statements from influential figures like Oprah Winfrey. The mainstream press has highlighted new comments from Oprah Winfrey regarding her personal experience with weight loss medications. After persistent speculation about her noticeably slimmer appearance at public events such as The Color Purple premiere, Oprah confirmed in a People magazine interview that she does use a prescription weight loss drug as part of her overall health strategy. However, she declined to specify the exact medication, leaving open questions about whether Ozempic is part of her regimen. She was candid about her reliance on medication as a tool in her journey to avoid the familiar cycle of weight fluctuations, often referred to as yo-yo dieting. This marks a shift from previous remarks, when she publicly wrestled with the decision about whether to use drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, feeling that they might constitute taking the easy way out. As reported by AOL, she admitted to initially refusing these medications but ultimately reached a decision to collaborate with her doctor for a medically supervised approach to weight management.This current news cycle illustrates how social attitudes toward Ozempic and similar drugs continue to evolve. The drug, originally developed for diabetes management, has seen off-label use expand dramatically as new research supports its effectiveness in achieving sustained weight loss. According to some healthcare experts cited in HELLO Magazine, there is increased awareness about the risks and benefits of these drugs, particularly in relation to long-term health outcomes. The celebrity debate now centers less on whether to use Ozempic and more on how to use it responsibly and transparently. Oprah's stance is frequently spotlighted because her influence on health and wellness discussions is significant. Her openness about using prescription medication, balanced by her reluctance to name a specific drug, reflects a nuanced position that many people find relatable.Notably, this week's reports emphasize that Oprah does not see medication as a standalone solution but rather as a complement to other healthy habits. She stressed that her weight management regimen includes active choices like healthy eating and regular physical activity, suggesting that medication alone cannot guarantee lasting results. HealthBanks reports that Oprah views weight loss drugs as a tool to be used “as I feel I need it” — not as a shortcut but as part of a broader, individualized plan. The importance of avoiding stigma is another major theme: both Oprah and other public figures are highlighting the need for empathy toward those who choose medical assistance, rejecting simplistic views about personal responsibility or willpower. This stance is echoed across Hollywood, as other celebrities confront speculation about their own experiences with Ozempic, often articulating that medication is one option among many. Some celebrities have denied ever using weight loss medications, stressing the value of healthy eating, exercise, and hard work. The conversation appears to be shifting away from moral judgments and toward understanding obesity and weight management as complex medical issues.Media coverage this week also reflects broader societal shifts. With Ozempic and similar drugs entering the mainstream, regulators and physicians are raising new concerns about access, proper supervision, and potential side effects if used without guidance. As more patients inquire about prescriptions, clinics and health authorities say they are monitoring for misuse and ensuring people understand both the benefits and the risks. In summary, over the last seven days, the discussion about Ozempic and weight loss has been shaped largely by celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, whose decisions resonate far beyond Hollywood. The message from Oprah and from current news sources is one of transparency, nuance, and empathy — emphasizing that successful weight management may require a range of approaches, from medical support to lifestyle changes, and that the best outcomes happen under proper medical supervision.Thanks for listening, please subscribe, and remember—this episode was brought to you by Quiet Please podcast networks. For more content like this, please go to Quiet Please dot Ai.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Johnny Mac dives into a caper involving a former Saturday Night Live intern who accused showrunner Lorne Michaels of causing high turnover and creating a toxic work environment.  Johnny also talks about Eddie Murphy's celebrated SNL return, Josh Johnson's new comedy set releases, Kathy Griffin's third facelift, Louis CK's reflections post-scandal, and a quirky list from AOL of comedians people had crushes on from the 1960s to 2000s.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/daily-comedy-news-with-johnny-mac--4522158/support.Contact John at John@thesharkdeck dot com Thanks to our sponsors!Raycon EarbudsUnderdog Fantasy Promo Code DCNBlue Chew Promo Code DCNTalkspace promo code Space 80For Uninterrupted Listening, use the Apple Podcast App and click the banner that says Uninterrupted Listening.  $4.99/month John's Substack about media is free.

What do you call a pastor who trades Bible verses for breathwork and starts preaching the gospel of pleasure?In this episode, I chat with Anthony Michael, a former pastor turned tantra teacher, community builder, and “minister of pleasure.” Together, we dive into the intersection of religion, sexuality, and sacred embodiment.From his 17 years in ministry to creating tantric play parties and a thriving conscious community in Houston, Anthony shares the radical journey of transforming guilt into grace and discovering how sex can be a prayer and pleasure can be devotion.

Justin Bieber BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.In just the past few days Justin Bieber has been busy making headlines both on the stage and in the business world while also shining a spotlight on his family life. The biggest news comes from his wife Hailey Bieber who has officially achieved billionaire status following e.l.f. Beauty's billion-dollar acquisition of her skincare brand Rhode as confirmed by AOL and business wires. Justin celebrated this milestone proudly on Instagram, posting affectionate photos and congratulating Hailey. The couple's celebration appears genuine with Justin's public support and Hailey's gratitude for her team and fans as she took to social media declaring this is just the beginning for Rhode. Major outlets including Vogue and American business media have been abuzz over Hailey's accomplishment given the speed of Rhode's ascent since its 2022 launch.Professionally, Justin himself has stepped back into the music scene in a big way. On November 13 in New York, Justin performed a livestream concert on Twitch, his first standalone set of this scale since 2017 according to setlist.fm. Fans stormed social media with clips and commentary about his performance of Purpose and other fan favorites with We The Band. This public appearance is being viewed as a significant indicator that Bieber is seriously charting his return to live music and even suggests possible momentum for more dates or album news though there have been no confirmed tour announcements yet. Notably, Justin made an unannounced appearance late last month joining SZA onstage at Kendrick Lamar's Grand National Tour in California with Hailey present and supportive in the VIP section.On the business front Justin's fashion brand SKYLRK is getting buzz thanks to its blend of classic Bieber streetwear and fresh design touches from Hailey. India Today reports that Hailey co-designed several new pieces including a standout leather jacket and has spoken publicly in GQ and social media interviews about her creative collaboration with Justin and the couple's approach to fame family and privacy. SKYLRK's launch this summer marked Justin's first major brand move since leaving Drew House earlier in the year.Social media has been abuzz with speculation about new music and increased activity from the Biebers but no rumors of major personal rifts have been substantiated. On the contrary Hailey told Vogue that she wakes up every day grateful for her family and brushed off tabloid chatter about their marriage. Justin has been trending for fan events including a Bieber tribute night in New York and an upcoming concert series tribute in Los Angeles but neither event involves him appearing in person. No legal or personal controversies have made legitimate headlines recently and friends say Bieber's focus is solidly on music family and business leaving fans and industry watchers speculating about what's next for pop music's comeback king.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Cristiano Ronaldo BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Cristiano Ronaldo once again dominated headlines over the past few days both on and off the pitch. The most talked-about event was his shocking red card during an international fixture against Ireland, which marked the very first time the Portuguese superstar has ever been sent off in over 220 appearances for his national team. The moment was met with relentless boos and jeers from the Irish crowd in Dublin, and video of the incident quickly went viral as fans speculated whether the suspension might impact his availability for Portugal's World Cup 2026 opener, a subject of fierce debate on social media and among pundits according to Economic Times. Almost immediately, Ronaldo responded publicly for the first time via his official channels, posting a message of defiance and unity for his Portugal teammates, urging them to remain focused and positive no matter the circumstances. His message was widely shared, reading, "Go team! All together today and forever! For Portugal and for our flag!" according to Goal. He later returned to social media with a more cryptic message after Al Nassr's final Pro League game, sharing a moody image of himself in his club colors and writing, "This is over. The story still being. Thanks to all," fueling speculation about his club future as reported by AOL and generating major headlines about a possible departure from Saudi Arabia.Media houses like Marca and Reuters fueled the rumor mill by reporting that a major Brazilian club had reached out to Ronaldo's agents about a move for next year's FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, though sources from Wydad Casablanca clarified that their approach was just idle talk. During this tense period, Ronaldo made a notable public appearance, maintaining his signature composure and optimism ahead of the 2026 World Cup, even as reporters pressed him about his controversial red card, future plans, and the rumors swirling on every platform from X to Instagram. Performance-wise, Ronaldo closed the Saudi Pro League season as its top scorer yet again, recording his 25th goal and helping Al Nassr clinch third place and qualify for the upcoming AFC Champions League, per Transfermarkt via AOL. With his contract up at season's end, the world is watching to see whether this chapter ends quietly or with a bombshell transfer now teased by his social media ambiguity and the international headlines that follow his every move.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Peso Pluma BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Peso Pluma's week has been an absolute whirlwind, cementing his status as one of the most vital new voices in Latin music. Fans packed the YouTube Theater in Los Angeles for his sold-out two-night run on Wednesday and Thursday, a splashy affair covered by LAist, where not only the music but the vibrant fan fashion stole the show. Attendees raved about the energy, calling Peso Pluma a phenomenon who's brought the corridos tumbados style from Jalisco to the international mainstream. One lifelong regional Mexican music fan even compared him to icons like Los Tigres del Norte and Ramon Ayala, celebrating how the genre now bridges generations and cultures in the U.S. That kind of crossover wasn't expected until recently, but the crowd at Inglewood proved how Peso Pluma's brand of storytelling connects with fans from East L.A. to Guatemala.Industry insiders and audience members alike noted that his concerts have become a gathering point for the Latino community, giving visibility and pride to Mexican musical roots while appealing to younger listeners who've found corridos more relatable thanks to artists like Peso Pluma. Social media buzzed all week with videos, selfies, and posts from the LA shows, as well as fans sporting custom merchandise and Mexican flags, amplifying the sense that his music isn't just entertainment—it's a movement.The excitement rolled into Thursday night's 2025 Latin Grammy Awards, held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. While Bad Bunny grabbed major headlines by sweeping album of the year and multiple other awards, Peso Pluma's impact was felt through nominations and conversations around the surge in regional Mexican music. News4Jax pointed out that the show spotlighted the genre's transformation, with references to Peso Pluma's influence alongside heavyweight acts like Fuerza Regida and Grupo Frontera. Although Peso Pluma didn't win the major hardware, his presence in the Latin Grammys—marked by his genre's meteoric rise—definitely sets him up as a mainstay for future awards.Business-wise, the demand for tickets, merch, and streaming continues to surge, with his latest album “Génesis” still charting after its breakaway debut at No. 3 on the Billboard 200. His social accounts have seen a steady flow of engagement this week, sharing clips from LA, fan shoutouts, and hype for future tour stops. Notably, there were no fresh controversies or dramatic gossip stories—no repeat of the infamous handholding at the Super Bowl, which earlier fueled rumors about his personal life and a split with Nicki Nicole, as previously referenced by AOL.All told, Peso Pluma's sold-out LA shows this week and his footprint at the Latin Grammys headline a pivotal period, further solidifying his role as a generational artist whose cultural and commercial momentum shows no sign of letting up.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

In the past week, breakthrough developments surrounding Ozempic and its use for weight loss have dominated health news, reflecting sweeping changes in both medical access and public perception. According to Popular Mechanics, Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical giant behind Ozempic and the similar injectable Wegovy, has just revealed the results of a major 71-week clinical study evaluating an oral pill form of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. This study, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, found that the daily pill achieved nearly the same results as the weekly injection, with participants losing an average of 16.6 percent of their body weight, far surpassing the 2.7 percent weight loss seen in the placebo group. About one third of those taking the pill lost more than 20 percent of their starting weight, signaling not just statistical significance but profound clinical impact. The trial also reported side effects consistent with earlier injectable versions, including increased incidences of nausea and vomiting, though these were not severe enough to derail the optimism surrounding the pill's future.Compounding these scientific advancements, the White House this week announced successful negotiations with both Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to dramatically reduce the cost of GLP-1 receptor agonists—the drug class of Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound—which many insurance providers had previously excluded or charged full price for. Now, eligible patients may see their out-of-pocket costs plummet from over one thousand dollars per month to a much more accessible fifty to three hundred fifty dollars depending on dosage and coverage. According to comments from Kim Fisher at the UC Davis Innovation Institute for Food and Health, these price adjustments are expected to drive a swift increase in demand and medication use, with around one in eight adult Americans having already tried some form of GLP-1 therapy.Despite the popularity and transformative outcomes touted by both consumers and medical professionals, Ozempic and related drugs are not without controversy. While these medications have reshaped the landscape for obesity and diabetes treatment, as UC Davis reports, emerging evidence indicates a need for caution and individualized care. Some patients experience notable gastrointestinal effects such as nausea and diarrhea, largely because GLP-1 drugs alter how the gut processes food and signal fullness to the brain. In addition, while fat loss can be dramatic, experts highlight that up to one quarter of the total weight lost may be from lean muscle, underscoring the importance of physical activity and adequate protein to preserve strength. Another concern echoed this week involves bone health, as rapid weight loss and restricted nutrition may inadvertently reduce bone density, especially in older adults and postmenopausal women. Leading researchers emphasize that a successful and safe weight loss journey with Ozempic demands precision nutrition, attentive exercise regimens, and regular monitoring to minimize health risks and maximize wellbeing.The intersection of celebrity culture with the Ozempic phenomenon also drew fresh attention over the past week, especially regarding Oprah Winfrey's evolving relationship with the drug. Oprah, who has long shared her struggles with weight publicly, admitted in recent interviews that she initially resisted taking Ozempic, saying she felt it was the easy way out and preferred to focus on lifestyle change. According to AOL, she reflected on her internal conflict about using medical intervention for weight loss, underscoring how the rise of drugs like Ozempic has forced a cultural reckoning over what constitutes effort, discipline, and legitimacy in personal health. While some celebrity peers openly dismiss rumors or deny any use of weight loss drugs, Oprah's decision to speak candidly about her hesitation and subsequent experiences gives voice to a wider conversation happening both in Hollywood and across the nation. As more public figures reveal their choices, the stigma of using medication to address chronic weight struggles may begin to dissipate, helping others seek support without shame.In summary, the past week has marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing Ozempic story. The introduction of a highly effective oral pill, substantial price cuts via government negotiation, and ongoing public debate about safety, efficacy, and cultural perceptions have all contributed to growing momentum. Now, as clinicians and patients alike look ahead to a future where advanced weight management tools are both more accessible and potentially safer to use, the importance of personalized guidance and health literacy has never been clearer.Thanks for listening, please subscribe, and remember—this episode was brought to you by Quiet Please podcast networks. For more content like this, please go to Quiet Please dot Ai.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Justin Bieber BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.In the rapidly shifting world of pop culture Justin Bieber has surfaced in headlines this week more for his personal life than traditional music drama. Us Weekly and AOL report that Justin is currently “happier than he's been in a long time” and looking comfortable and lowkey while spotted at spas in New York City and out on public outings with his wife Hailey Bieber. The two attended a Knicks game, dined at The Corner Store, and grabbed popcorn at the IPIC movie theater—all in plain sight of fans and paparazzi. Any public speculation about marriage woes is being forcefully rebuffed by those close to the couple insiders tell People that Justin and Hailey are focused on their marriage and “very much in it together,” with friends noting their mutual support and maturity.GQ published a new interview with Hailey in which she candidly described their marriage as something they take “one day at a time,” opening up about existing under intense public scrutiny. Despite skipping the 2025 Grammys for the second year running—fueling the usual internet chatter that maybe he's retreating from the limelight—a recent source shared with People that Hailey loves seeing Justin get back into his “creative process,” especially in the studio creating with friends.Grammys chatter is always intense at this time of year, but the spotlight is on nominations and no confirmed Bieber wins or performances are making waves right now with final voting for 2026 not wrapping up until January according to the Times of India.On the cultural tribute front Justin's impact is still being felt—a Candlelight Tribute concert dedicated to Justin Bieber music is scheduled for November 22 in Los Angeles, confirming his music's continuing influence among fans. Social media has picked up on clips from a YouTube event called “DAY 11” featuring Justin with Hailey and WETHEBAND on November 11 but there's nothing to indicate a secret album drop or surprise music project based on available footage so far.Business-wise there is zero movement on new ventures apart from earlier reported news that Justin exited his streetwear brand Drew House recently as summarized on the Spreaker audio biography series. No new deals or partnerships have surfaced this week according to official channels.The upshot Justin Bieber remains a cultural mainstay with his personal life and relationship still commanding major headlines but no confirmed headline-grabbing music or business bombshells in recent days. Any speculations about a retreat or comeback remain just that—unconfirmed and mostly fan-fueled at this stage.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Kathy talks about surviving Trump, the Groundlings, Stand-up, her parents who loved show biz, Sia, Joan Rivers, relationships, dating younger guys, saving every dime, and why she made Jay pay for their date. Bio: Two-time Emmy and Grammy award-winning comedian Kathy Griffin is a towering figure on television, on tour and in publishing. In 2013, Kathy was inducted into the Guinness Book of World Records for writing and starring in an unprecedented 20 televised stand-up specials - more than any comedian in history. In 2014, Kathy made history again with her 6th consecutive Grammy nomination and first win for Best Comedy Album (Kathy Griffin: Calm Down Gurrl), joining Whoopi Goldberg and Lily Tomlin as the only other female comedians to ever win Grammy awards for Best Comedy Album. Her hit Bravo series, Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List aired for 6 years and won 2 Emmys. It was nominated every single year of its run. The series also earned her a GLAAD Media Award for Best Reality Program.Kathy starred on NBC's Suddenly Susan and guest starred on multiple legendary TV series including Seinfeld, Law & Order: SVU, Glee, You, and Curb Your Enthusiasm. Additionally, she has lent her unique voice to animated characters in Shrek Forever After, The Simpsons, American Dad, Futurama and Dilbert. Kathy's unrivaled style of humor and prolific comedy pedigree has made her one of television's go-to hosts for premier live events. Kathy drew huge worldwide audiences to CNN's New Year's Eve special, which she co-produced and co-hosted with Anderson Cooper for 10 years. Kathy co-hosted The Billboard Music AwardsLIVE three years in a row, the 41st annual Daytime Emmy Awards LIVE and AARP's Movies for Grownups Gala. Her sure-fire hosting success led to her own LIVE late night talk show, Kathy.Also an accomplished author, Kathy's memoir, Official Book Club Selection: A Memoir According to Kathy Griffin, debuted at #1 on the New York Times Bestseller List. Her much-anticipated second book, Kathy Griffin's Celebrity Run-Ins: My A-Z Index, was also a New York Times Best Seller. On the stage, Kathy has performed standup for hundreds of thousands around the globe. Buoyed by her fiercely dedicated fans, Kathy's live performances are legendary and in a class of their own. The fiery redhead has sold out shows to rave reviews throughout North America, Europe, Australia and Asia at such iconic venues as The Sydney Opera House, The Mark Taper Forum, Madison Square Garden, Carnegie Hall and The Kennedy Center. Kathy has also performed for active military servicemen and women in such war zones as Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, and Uzbekistan. She has graced the covers of The Hollywood Reporter, Adweek, and The Advocate, and has had in-depth profiles in New York Magazine and Forbes.In addition to performing, writing and producing, Kathy is a renowned speaker and has taken her empowering messages of equality through activism and humor all over the country. Kathy's passionate advocacy for women, the LGBT community, and other disenfranchised groups have been displayed through numerous candid and intimate conversations with award-winning journalists and moderators from The Los Angeles Times, The New York Times, The Hudson Union Society, 92Y, as well as tech giants Google and AOL. She has been honored in this area with multiple awards including The Human Rights Campaign's Ally for Equality, GLAAD's Vanguard Award, The Trevor Life Award from the Trevor Project, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America's Leadership in Entertainment honor, the Harvard College Distinguished Service Partner Award, Veterans Tickets Foundation Distinguished Donor Award, the Lambda Legal Liberty Award, a two-time Ladies' Home Journal “Funny Ladies We Love” Recipient, and a Gracie Award for Outstanding Female Lead.

Most people think “going viral” only happens on social media… but in PR, one good press feature can quietly go viral too.In this video, we're breaking down how syndication works — and how one placement on a site like PureWow, Bustle, or Apartment Therapy can end up being shared across Yahoo, MSN, AOL, and other massive media networks.We'll cover: ✨ A real story of how one PureWow feature turned into four media placements

This was an excellent crossword by a prolific cruciverbalist. It was a Monday, and as far as being fun and appropriate for novice puzzle solvers, a smashing success. We enjoyed the challenge of how to spell 9D, Shrub with bright flowers, AZALEA; the reappearance (for the second time in two days) of a by-gone internet pioneer, AOL; and the opportunity to haul out our faux-pirate accent for 9A, Pirate's "Stop!", AVAST.Show note imagery: Some real FIREBREATHERS!We love feedback! Send us a text...Contact Info:We love listener mail! Drop us a line, crosswordpodcast@icloud.com.Also, we're on FaceBook, so feel free to drop by there and strike up a conversation!

Mr. Beast Biography Flash a weekly Biography.Mr. Beast has made a major headline this week with news that he is set to open his own theme park. According to AOL, the attraction called Beast Land will welcome visitors in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, beginning November 13 and operating through December. This marks a dramatic expansion from digital creator to live entertainment entrepreneur and is being watched closely by business analysts for its potential as a new global brand extension. No other YouTuber of his scale has moved into this sort of real-world entertainment on such an ambitious level, so this could prove highly significant for his long-term biographical profile.On social media, Mr. Beast–whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson–continues to leverage his massive platforms to promote this new venture. Twitter and Instagram have been abuzz over the last couple of days, with Mr. Beast posting teasers of the theme park setup, behind-the-scenes clips, and encouraging fans in the region to visit Beast Land. Fans have already begun speculating about exclusive in-person challenges and possible surprise appearances, although at this time, nothing beyond his planned opening weekend appearance has been confirmed.Business-wise, this move has fueled fresh commentary about Mr. Beast's strategy to diversify beyond YouTube. Analysts quoted in the entertainment trades suggest the Beast Land experiment might offer insights into the power of creator-driven brand experiences, especially in high-growth markets like the Middle East. It comes hot on the heels of speculation about a possible Mr. Beast product line expansion, although concrete announcements on that front remain pending.In terms of recent public appearances, all eyes are on Riyadh for his scheduled opening-day event. While Mr. Beast has kept a relatively low in-person profile recently, his decision to headline Beast Land's launch cements his commitment to the project. Interviews and public statements have focused on his excitement to bring the immersive challenges and philanthropy fans know from YouTube into a real-world setting for the first time.No major controversies or negative stories have broken in the last 24 hours. Coverage from outlets like AOL and a variety of entertainment newswires remains overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the innovative scope of the Beast Land project and his continued rise as both digital and business powerhouse.That's everything you need to know about Mr. Beast's action-packed week. Thanks for listening. Please subscribe so you never miss an update on Mr. Beast, and be sure to search the term Biography Flash for more great biographies.And that is it for today. Make sure you hit the subscribe button and never miss an update on Mr. Beast. Thanks for listening. This has been a Quiet Please production."Get the best deals https://amzn.to/4mMClBvThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Justin Timberlake BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Justin Timberlake has been making headlines in the past several days, reclaiming his status as a major player in music, hospitality, and business. The biggest story out of Texas is Timberlake's upcoming expansion of The Twelve Thirty Club, his luxury Nashville venue, into Downtown Austin. Austin's CultureMap broke the news that Timberlake, in partnership with Sam Fox, will renovate a historic 100-year-old post office for the $30 million, four-level project—a move described as one of the most significant hospitality investments in recent Austin history. Timberlake announced his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting Austin's deep connection to live music and promising a venue where music and dining blend seamlessly. This club will feature a main Supper Club floor with live performances and dining, a late-night Speakeasy lounge for DJs, a private members club that overlooks shows, and an intimate private event space. ATXtoday and FSR Magazine also covered the announcement, emphasizing Timberlake's intent to create an original experience for Austin while preserving the building's history. Local buzz predicts this development will solidify Timberlake's influence far beyond music, turning him into a Texas hospitality mogul.In his music career, Timberlake is still in high demand internationally. Recent ticket sales and news from timberlake-baku.com confirmed a major appearance at Baku Crystal Hall in 2025 as part of his Forget Tomorrow tour, a concert hyped as a top music event for Europe that year. Fans and media are watching closely for setlists and possible surprise collaborations, signaling that Timberlake retains formidable draw on the live stage.Business news continues to swirl around Timberlake's music rights and catalog deals in the complex world of publishing. Wikipedia and recent business reporting detailed the creation of Recognition Music Group, a merger and rebrand following Blackstone's acquisition of Hipgnosis Songs Fund, which previously purchased Timberlake's song catalog outright in 2022. Now, Sony Music Publishing has acquired the US publishing and administration business that includes Timberlake's catalog as part of Recognition's latest strategic moves. These deals secure Timberlake's legacy, with his works generating long-term cash flows and solidifying his relevance for decades.On the health and personal front, AOL reports Timberlake is taking a temporary break to focus on recovery, citing ongoing health concerns—but specifics remain private. Social media chatter is mostly supportive, with fans expressing sympathy and encouragement, though no official posts from Timberlake himself have appeared in recent days.No controversy, legal drama, or unexpected scandals have broken regarding Timberlake's business or personal life this week. The focus remains squarely on his entrepreneurial ventures and sustained musical influence. If successful, Austin's Twelve Thirty Club launch might rival his Nashville flagship, shaping both his biography and Austin's cultural landscape. For now, the timeline, major investments, and Timberlake's level of involvement are what industry insiders and fans alike are watching most closely.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Dolly Parton BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.The last few days in the world of Dolly Parton have been a masterclass in why her name still draws instant recognition and genuine affection. According to People and Cat Country, she's rolled out reservations for her much-anticipated SongTeller Hotel in downtown Nashville, a project brimming with her signature glitter and warmth. Slated to open to guests in June 2026, the hotel includes a full museum devoted to her life and legacy, immersive exhibits, and two live music venues, touted by Parton as her “love letter to Nashville,” displaying not just Nashville pride but also her business acumen. This is biographically significant—her expansion into hospitality and legacy-building continues decades after conquering music, film, and theme parks.Knox News highlights that Dollywood, her flagship theme park, is mapping out plans for explosive growth by 2050, including new rollercoasters, fresh resorts, and even a possible cruise ship, all under her guiding vision. The NightFlight Expedition ride, set for spring 2026, stands as the park's largest-ever investment, reflecting her intent to cement Dollywood as a multi-generational destination and anchor for the region's tourism. This long-term ambition assures her influence on Tennessee's economic and cultural landscape will only grow.On the public appearance front, it's been a busy week. The Oklahoma City Philharmonic is currently hosting Dolly Parton's Threads: My Songs in Symphony, a multimedia orchestral concert blending new symphonic arrangements of her hits with video appearances from Parton herself, sharing personal stories about the dreams that shaped her music. According to OKC FOX and the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, the format is uniquely intimate: audiences experience the songs alongside Dolly's own reflections, amplifying both nostalgia and emotional resonance.Yahoo and AOL reported that, following last month's concerns about her health including a cancelled Las Vegas residency due to kidney stones, Parton surfaced on Instagram with trademark humor, telling fans she “ain't dead yet”—swiftly ending the rumor mill. Social media was further abuzz thanks to her viral TikTok entry into the “What's Up?” trend, where she playfully performed the 4 Non Blondes anthem, injecting her spirit into Gen Z feeds according to Holler Country.Billboard and Effingham Radio confirm she's being honored as part of the Grand Ole Opry's centennial “Opry 100: Country's Greatest Songs” album and commemorative events, including a spotlight on her 2007 rendition of “I Will Always Love You” for Porter Wagoner. This deepens her connection to country heritage at a moment the genre reflects on its pillars.Meanwhile, Broadway fans are anticipating the regional premiere of her musical “9 to 5” and the national tour of her Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol, as reported by Interlochen and The Carson Center, ensuring her storytelling voice remains alive on stage this holiday season.Forbes reiterates Dolly's business empire is thriving, with Dollywood, royalties, cake mixes and pet products fueling her $450 million net worth, while her philanthropy and literacy efforts stay near the front of her public profile.Every note, new venture, and surprise social media cameo from Dolly this week adds to a tapestry that refuses to fray with time. Whether she's masterminding mountain amusements, opening a one-of-a-kind hotel, or setting TikTok aflame, Dolly Parton continues to write new headlines—never resting on old glory, and never out of sight of the public heart.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

It's not your fault. This week on You Had Me at Rewind, Nathan Chandler travels back to Dec. 5, 1997, to revisit Good Will Hunting, the film that made therapy cinematic and turned two childhood friends, Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, into Hollywood legends.Nathan is joined by returning guest Beau Gatlin for an in-person conversation recorded deep in the heart of Texas. Together they unpack why the story of a janitor-genius from South Boston still resonates, reflect on Robin Williams' unforgettable performance and explore how this film made emotional vulnerability cool long before it was mainstream.From Elliott Smith's moody soundtrack to the movie's lasting influence on pop culture (and a few laughs about AOL screen names), Nathan and Beau dig into what makes Good Will Hunting both timeless and very, very '90s.Read Nathan's thoughts on Good Will Hunting.Support the podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/moviesarelife

My guest today is Luca Ferrari. Luca is the co-founder and CEO of Bending Spoons, which he describes as 25 percent private equity and 75 percent technology company. Founded in 2013, Bending Spoons fully acquires and operates digital companies like Evernote, Meetup, Vimeo, and most recently AOL.  Our conversation explores the unique model behind Bending Spoons, and the culture required to scale it. Luca shares exactly how their acquisition playbook works – from identifying promising businesses to rebuilding every part of them across product, design, monetization, and marketing. We discuss their approach to financing long-term ownership through both debt and equity, Luca's obsession with finding and developing exceptional talent, and his decision to build the company in Europe.  I found Luca's description of himself as perennially unhappy to be the clearest window into how he builds. It's a mindset that fuels his pursuit of excellence and defines the culture at Bending Spoons. Please enjoy my conversation with Luca Ferrari. For the full show notes, transcript, and links to mentioned content, check out the episode page ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ----- This episode is brought to you by⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ramp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Ramp's mission is to help companies manage their spend in a way that reduces expenses and frees up time for teams to work on more valuable projects. Go to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ramp.com/invest⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to sign up for free and get a $250 welcome bonus. – This episode is brought to you by⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ AlphaSense⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. AlphaSense has completely transformed the research process with cutting-edge AI technology and a vast collection of top-tier, reliable business content. Invest Like the Best listeners can get a free trial now at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Alpha-Sense.com/Invest⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and experience firsthand how AlphaSense and Tegus help you make smarter decisions faster. –- This episode is brought to you by⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ridgeline⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Ridgeline has built a complete, real-time, modern operating system for investment managers. It handles trading, portfolio management, compliance, customer reporting, and much more through an all-in-one real-time cloud platform. Head to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ridgelineapps.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to learn more about the platform. ----- Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠). Show Notes: (00:00:00) Welcome to Invest Like the Best (00:03:12) The Vision and Ambition (00:07:56) Challenges and Early Days (00:11:01) The Turning Point: Evertale to Bending Spoons (00:13:12) Acquisition Strategy and Growth (00:24:22) Case Study: Evernote Acquisition (00:33:34) Pricing and Valuation Insights (00:40:02) Making Competitive Offers (00:40:37) Walkaway Rate and Offer Success (00:41:14) Financing the Business (00:43:21) Lessons from Acquisitions (00:46:32) The AOL Acquisition (00:48:21) Simplifying Business Operations (00:56:10) Incentives and Motivation (00:58:31) Balancing Discontent and Growth (01:03:21) Raising Debt Capital (01:06:37) Impact of AI on Business (01:11:00) Company Culture and Traditions (01:16:00) The Kindest Thing

Co-hosts Mark Thompson and Steve Little discuss how new AI browsers are changing how genealogists research. They compare OpenAI's Atlas, Microsoft Edge, Google's Gemini, and Perplexity's Comet, explaining which features help family historians most.The hosts share lessons from the early AOL era that can be applied to the AI era. They also explore Anthropic's new Haiku 4.5, a very fast model that works great for simple tasks like transcription and summarization.Don't miss this week's Tip of the Week, where Steve shows how AI can help you write better AI prompts. He uses an example for extracting information from draft cards to show how useful this approach can be.In RapidFire, they cover new AI features in spreadsheets, major improvements in transcribing old handwriting, and how Microsoft Copilot's new agent store tries to help you with common tasks.Timestamps:In the News:01:20 Browser Wars Heat Up: OpenAI Atlas, Edge, and Gemini Compete16:50 What AI Can Learn from AOL: Avoiding Walled Garden Mistakes29:10 Anthropic's Haiku 4.5: When Smaller Models Beat Bigger OnesTip of the Week:39:50 Using AI to Write Better Prompts for Historical DocumentsRapidFire:47:19 AI Makes Spreadsheets Easier: Google Sheets vs Excel54:35 Reading Old Handwriting Gets Better: DeepSeek and Google Updates01:05:15 Microsoft Copilot Adds Writing and Prompt CoachesResource Links:Genealogy and AI Facebook to hit 20k users! https://www.facebook.com/groups/genealogyandaiAn In-Depth Look at OpenAI's AI Browserhttps://intuitionlabs.ai/articles/chatgpt-atlas-openai-browserDeepSeek AI created DeepSeek-OCR https://www.infoq.com/news/2025/10/deepseek-ocr/Nearly perfect on handwriting recognition https://generativehistory.substack.com/p/has-google-quietly-solved-two-ofGlobal AI Browser Market Sizehttps://market.us/report/ai-browser-market/Benchmarking Claude Haiku 4.5 and Sonnet 4.5 on 400 Real PRshttps://www.qodo.ai/blog/thinking-vs-thinking-benchmarking-claude-haiku-4-5-and-sonnet-4-5-on-400-real-prs/Anthropic's Claude Haiku 4.5 Brings Enterprise-Grade Speed and Savings to Customer-Facing AIhttps://www.cxtoday.com/contact-center/anthropics-claude-haiku-4-5-brings-enterprise-grade-speed-and-savings-to-customer-facing-ai/Top 10 AI Spreadsheet Toolshttps://www.knack.com/blog/top-ai-spreadsheet-tools/Prompt Coach: Prebuilt agent for Microsoft 365 Copilot Chathttps://rishonapowerplatform.com/2025/03/11/prompt-coach-prebuilt-agent-for-microsoft-365-copilot-chat/Tags:Artificial Intelligence, Genealogy, AI Browsers, OpenAI Atlas, Google Gemini, Microsoft Edge, Perplexity Comet, Anthropic Haiku, Meta-Prompting, Spreadsheet AI, OCR Technology, Handwritten Text, DeepSeek, Microsoft Copilot, AI Agents, Document Extraction, Family History, Browser Wars, AI Models

 If you want to understand the full spectrum of AI software, from "straightforward problem-solving tool" to "never-ending slop machine," all you need to do is pay attention to everything Adobe launched at its conference this week. David and Nilay run through the news, which will change how people use Photoshop but also maybe change our social feeds forever. After that, they talk about OpenAI's conversion to a for-profit business, and specifically the truly wild way OpenAI and Microsoft talk about the future of AGI. Finally, in the lightning round, they discuss Brendan Carr, Cybertrucks, the Trump Phone, Ghost Posts, and more. Help us improve The Verge: Take our quick survey at theverge.com/survey. Further reading: ⁠Photoshop and Premiere Pro's new AI tools can instantly edit your work ⁠ ⁠You can tell Adobe Express's new AI assistant to edit designs for you⁠ ⁠Adobe's AI social media admin is here with ‘Project Moonlight' ⁠ ⁠Mark Zuckerberg is excited to add more AI content to all your social feeds⁠ ⁠Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg defends AI spend: 'We're seeing the returns'⁠ ⁠OpenAI completed its for-profit restructuring — and struck a new deal with Microsoft ⁠  ⁠The next chapter of the Microsoft–OpenAI partnership⁠ ⁠OpenAI lays groundwork for juggernaut IPO at up to $1 trillion valuation | Reuters⁠ ⁠OpenAI has an AGI problem — and Microsoft just made it worse ⁠ ⁠OpenAI made ChatGPT better at sifting through your work information ⁠ ⁠Sam, Jakub, and Wojciech on the future of OpenAI with audience Q&A⁠ ⁠The Kingmaker | WIRED⁠ ⁠Congratulations to the Tesla Cybertruck on its 10th recall.⁠ ⁠Trump℠ Mobile | All-American Performance. Everyday Price. $47.45/Month⁠ ⁠Threads is getting disappearing posts ⁠ ⁠Ads will arrive on Samsung Family Hub smart fridges next month. ⁠ ⁠The FCC is going after broadband nutrition labels. ⁠ ⁠Brendan Carr is a Dummy⁠ ⁠Bending Spoons is buying AOL for some reason ⁠ Subscribe to The Verge for unlimited access to theverge.com, subscriber-exclusive newsletters, and our ad-free podcast feed.We love hearing from you! Email your questions and thoughts to vergecast@theverge.com or call us at 866-VERGE11. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into the often-overwhelming world of building a tech stack for your coaching business! We know the thought of sorting through all the technology options can make your eyes glaze over, but fear not! We break it down into manageable pieces, discussing everything from accounting software to payment processors, calendaring systems, and even email marketing tools. Adding tech to your process should save you time and money, not cause you headaches and cost you cash. Our goal is to help you streamline your processes so you can focus on what you do best – coaching! Are you ready to take your coaching business to the next level? Listen in as we share our personal experiences with different tools and provide recommendations that can help you build a solid tech foundation for a thriving coaching practice.

A bunch of products and services seem to be going end-of-life all at once right now, so we did a round-up of some notable ones this week. Believe it or not, the venerable TiVo line of set-top TV recorders was still in service right up until this past week, so we pay tribute to this product that changed everything in the television space (and apparently the open source licensing space). Of course, we also have to do a check-in with Windows 10 now that its EOL date has come and gone, and the options for extended support have become clearer. Lastly, we wrap up with some tidbits about the rapid disappearance of the BD-ROM drive from retail, the end of AOL's dial-up service, and more.Windows 10 ESU: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/extended-security-updatesWindows LTSC FAQ: https://massgrave.dev/windows_ltsc_linksTiVo is done: https://cordcuttersnews.com/tivo-stops-selling-dvrs-marking-the-end-of-an-era/Pioneer sells off its BD-ROM business: https://www.techpowerup.com/336803/pioneer-has-ended-production-of-computer-blu-ray-drives-transfers-pddm-business-to-shanxi-group Support the Pod! Contribute to the Tech Pod Patreon and get access to our booming Discord, a monthly bonus episode, your name in the credits, and other great benefits! You can support the show at: https://patreon.com/techpod

Jared hangs with comedian & impersonator Anna Roisman! They revisit You've Got Mail and the wild-west AOL days. Anna admits early “catfishing” was her first taste of impressions. Deep dive: Anna's Hilaria Baldwin saga viral parody, mass reports, a brief détente for a joint video via Hilaria's team, and the unforgettable line Anna heard in person, “I am a trained ballroom dancer…Dancing with the Stars would be unfair,” followed by the quick DWTS exit. They gush over Anna's Kris Jenner (the laugh is the tell), talk meeting “Steve” from Sex and the City (sweet, thriving on Chicago procedurals), and how seeing childhood TV stars doing regular jobs messes with fans' nostalgia. Bethenny Frankel gets love for her relentless TikTok grind (and chaos), plus a plug for Jared's DC show where Anna's opening!Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/JTRAIN and use code JTRAIN and get $50 in lineups when you play

Did Trump just compromise our national security by having to tell China this week that it has been spying on it and discovered former National Security Advisor John Bolton's “AOL” emails on Chinese servers, before Indicting Bolton? And Did Trump just cover up blowing a surveillance operation over China by announcing new “maximum tariffs” against China blowing up the Stock Market, all to allow him to vindictively prosecute one of his political enemies? Popok makes sense of all of Trump's bizarre behavior today and his willingness to stop at nothing to make a critique pay. Visit https://meidasplus.com for more! Remember to subscribe to ALL the MeidasTouch Network Podcasts: MeidasTouch: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/meidastouch-podcast Legal AF: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/legal-af MissTrial: https://meidasnews.com/tag/miss-trial The PoliticsGirl Podcast: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-politicsgirl-podcast The Influence Continuum: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-influence-continuum-with-dr-steven-hassan Mea Culpa with Michael Cohen: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen The Weekend Show: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-weekend-show Burn the Boats: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/burn-the-boats Majority 54: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/majority-54 Political Beatdown: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown On Democracy with FP Wellman: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/on-democracy-with-fpwellman Uncovered: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/maga-uncovered Coalition of the Sane: https://meidasnews.com/tag/coalition-of-the-sane Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jess is joined by comedian ZACH NOE TOWERS (@zachnoetowers)! Topics — roommates with Bob the Drag Queen, friendship with Leslie Jordan, 10 years of sobriety, AOL chat rooms, Jeff Lewis Live, 'movies' vs. 'films,' his TWO horror movie screenplays, Kiss of the Spiderwoman, Jennifer Lopez & more! ⭐ IG: @jessxnyc  ⭐ Jess' docu-series on the rise & fall of SoulCycle — Cult of Body & Soul ⭐ Jess' docu-series on the history, mystique & lore of Fire Island — Finding Fire Island

On this Friday's Feels ep, J&J review You've Got Mail, the iconic Upper West Side rom-com starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, diving into the movie that kicked off the era of online dating while nostalgically saying goodbye to small bookstores. They explore the magic of falling in love online before apps made dating complicated, from over-30 chat rooms to the classic AOL dial-up sound that defined a generation. From slow, meaningful email connections to Joe Fox's low-pressure dating style, they debate whether this vintage romance still holds lessons for modern love. Plus, they question if Kathleen was actually forced to fall for Joe after his store puts hers out of business, wondering if romance can survive a little ruthless competition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can large organizations harness the power of AI for content creation while simultaneously mitigating the risks that come with exponentially scaling content volume and velocity? Agility requires adaptation to new ways of working as well as adapting governance and oversight processes to maintain brand integrity and manage risk in the new paradigm that AI has helped to create. It also requires the ability to quickly react and adjust content strategies in response to real-time performance data and market shifts. This episode is brought to you by Markup AI. AI can create content, but Markup AI's Content Guardian AgentsSM perfect your content. Markup AI instantly scans, scores, and rewrites any content to enforce your standards for brand voice, terminology, and compliance, giving you the confidence you need to scale your use of AI. Learn more at www.markup.ai. Today, we're going to talk about navigating the exciting but often treacherous landscape of AI-driven content creation. The sheer volume of content being generated presents unprecedented challenges for maintaining quality, consistency, and brand integrity. To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome, Matt Blumberg, CEO at Markup AI. About Matt Blumberg Matt is the CEO of Markup AI and has more than 30 years of leadership in scaling global disruptive technology businesses. Matt is passionate about the power of language — being precise with it, using it to move people, and ensuring brands maintain a consistent voice with it — and he is equally passionate about the power of technology to change lives for the better. Before launching Markup AI, Matt successfully launched and led brands and companies including Acrolinx, MovieFone.com division of 777-FILM (acquired by AOL), Return Path (#2 on Fortune Magazine's “Best Companies to Work for” list and later acquired by PSG/Validity), the nonprofit Path Forward, and Bolster, a disruptive platform for executive search in the tech industry. Additionally, Matt is the author of a blog (Startup CEO), a podcast (The Daily Bolster), and three acclaimed books on startup leadership (Startup CEO, Startup CXO, and Startup Boards), further underscoring his expertise and commitment to innovation. Matt is based in New York City. Matt Blumberg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blumbergmatt/ Resources Markup AI: https://markup.ai/ The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnow Register now for Sitecore Symposium, November 3-5 in Orlando Florida. Use code SYM25-2Media10 to receive 10% off. Go here for more: https://symposium.sitecore.com/ Don't Miss MAICON 2025, October 14-16 in Cleveland - the event bringing together the brights minds and leading voices in AI. Use Code AGILE150 for $150 off registration. Go here to register: https://bit.ly/agile150 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstrom Don't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.show Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

The founder of Friend joins the pod for an interview… And announces he's making a Friend AI movie.Taco Bell and Salt & Straw resurrected the Choco Taco… It's a new playbook for collabs.Electric cars sales hit a record last Q… but it reminds us of the cannabis industry.Plus, AOL is getting sold… and your screen name is its most valuable asset.Check out the full interview with Avi Schiffman on our Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tboypod Vote for The Best Idea Yet to win “Best Business Podcast”: ​​https://vote.signalaward.com/PublicVoting#/2025/shows/genre/business$YUM $TSLA $METANEWSLETTER:https://tboypod.com/newsletter OUR 2ND SHOW:Want more business storytelling from us? Check our weekly deepdive show, The Best Idea Yet: The untold origin story of the products you're obsessed with. Listen for free to The Best Idea Yet: https://wondery.com/links/the-best-idea-yet/NEW LISTENERSFill out our 2 minute survey: https://qualtricsxm88y5r986q.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_dp1FDYiJgt6lHy6GET ON THE POD: Submit a shoutout or fact: https://tboypod.com/shoutouts SOCIALS:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tboypod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tboypodYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tboypod Linkedin (Nick): https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolas-martell/Linkedin (Jack): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-crivici-kramer/Anything else: https://tboypod.com/ About Us: The daily pop-biz news show making today's top stories your business. Formerly known as Robinhood Snacks, The Best One Yet is hosted by Jack Crivici-Kramer & Nick Martell.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.