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Our guest in this episode is the returning Anna Addoms of Wicked Marvelous. She is a wonderfully pragmatic and insightful guide helping entrepreneurs navigate the complex world of AI. Anna champions using technology as a powerful tool, not to replace us, but to help foster deeper and more authentic human connections.We picked up our conversation right where we left off in episode 671, exploring the critical ethical questions and practical boundaries of artificial intelligence. Anna shared brilliant insights on everything from copyright in the creative arts to the single most important skill we need to hone for the future.Key points discussed include:* Practice radical transparency about your AI use to build unwavering trust with your audience.* Use AI as a back-office tool to free up your precious time for genuine human connection.* Train AI on your own content to ensure your unique brand voice always shines through.Listen to the podcast to find out more.Innovabiz Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Show Notes from this episode with Anna Addoms, Wicked MarvelousIt was an absolute delight to welcome Anna Addoms of Wicked Marvelous back to the Innovabuzz podcast. Our last conversation was cut short by a technical hiccup—perhaps the AI getting its own back on us—right as we were getting to the heart of the matter. So, picking up right where we left off felt not just necessary, but essential. Anna, with her characteristic clarity and pragmatism, helped navigate the complex, and sometimes murky, waters of using AI in a way that is both effective and deeply human.We jumped straight into the profound shift required in our thinking as we build relationships in this new digital landscape. Anna's perspective is a refreshing dose of common sense in a field often filled with hype. She argues that while the tools are new and evolving at a breakneck pace, the fundamental principles of good business and human connection remain the same. It's not about a total revolution in our values, but a thoughtful evolution in our methods.The Transparency Mandate: Your First Rule of AI EngagementAnna's foundational rule for AI engagement is simple yet powerful: be transparent. She made it crystal clear that if you are using AI in any capacity that faces the public or your clients, you have a responsibility to disclose it. This isn't about being ashamed of using a powerful tool; quite the opposite. It's about building trust by being upfront and honest about your processes. Not disclosing, and then getting caught, can do irreparable damage to your reputation.This frames AI correctly, not as a replacement for human skill or creativity, but as a tool in our arsenal. We wouldn't hide the fact that we use specialized software for accounting or project management, and Anna argues we should treat AI with the same straightforwardness. This simple act of disclosure respects your audience's intelligence and allows them to engage with your work, and your brand, on honest terms.The Creative Gray Area: Navigating AI Art and Intellectual PropertyAs a keen photographer, this part of our conversation struck a personal chord. We waded into what Anna aptly calls the "biggest gray area" in AI right now: the world of generated art and the protection of intellectual property. It's a space filled with incredible potential but also fraught with ethical questions. Where do we draw the line between an AI emulating a style and it infringing upon a human artist's livelihood and creative ownership?Anna shared some fascinating, and slightly sobering, insights, referencing the lawsuit between Disney and Midjourney as a major signal of the legal battles to come. She also pointed to the development of technologies like permanent digital watermarks for AI-generated media as a necessary step forward. It's a reminder that as we embrace these creative tools, we must also advocate for frameworks that protect the human creators whose work forms the very foundation of the AI's knowledge.From Fun to Function: AI as a Creative Partner and Problem-SolverLest we think the conversation was all serious, we took a detour into the genuinely fun and creative applications of AI. I shared a story about getting a parking fine and using AI to translate my initial, very angry, draft letter into something diplomatic, before asking it to rewrite the letter in the style of comedians like Stephen Colbert and Jim Jeffries. The process was not only hilarious but cathartic, turning frustration into laughter.This perfectly complemented Anna's examples of using AI as a playful, creative partner. She spoke of creating unique cartoon avatars for her members, which many now use as their official business profiles, and even generating a full 160-card Oracle deck with AI graphics just for fun. It's a brilliant illustration of how these tools can be used for more than just productivity; they can be a source of joy, creativity, and connection.Drawing the Line: Where AI Should Work and Where Humans Must RuleSo, where do we draw the line? Anna's distinction is incredibly clear and practical. She is a huge proponent of using AI for "back office" functions, letting it handle what she calls the "administrative minutia" so that we have more time and energy to focus on high-value, human-to-human interactions. Think of it as an assistant that helps you repurpose content, analyze data, or draft initial documents.However, she has a "hard line" when it comes to client-facing engagement. The core message is to use AI to help you run your business more effectively, but not to let it be in your business, interacting with your clients or your audience. The ultimate goal of using these tools should be to free us up to spend more quality time with people, not to create a buffer between us.The Communication Imperative: The Most Important Skill for the AI EraAs we continued, a powerful theme emerged: the most critical skill we need to hone in the age of AI is communication. This goes far beyond just "prompt engineering." It's about the timeless art of asking clear, specific, and descriptive questions. The old "garbage in, garbage out" principle has never been more relevant.Anna used a wonderful analogy of briefing a designer. If you give a vague, one-line request, you'll get a generic result. But if you provide rich detail, context, and specific examples, you'll get something much closer to your vision. The same is true for AI. Communicating effectively with these models not only yields better results but also reinforces the habits of clear communication that are essential in our interactions with other people.Your AI Action Plan: Start Secure, Stay HumanTo wrap up our discussion, Anna offered a clear, two-part action plan for anyone looking to leverage AI thoughtfully. First, and most critically, is to choose a secure AI environment. Free and open platforms often mean you are paying with your data. Using a secure, encrypted service ensures your proprietary information and client data remain private.Second, take the time to train your AI to sound like you. By creating a persona or agent that has learned from your own writing—be it blog posts, emails, or sales copy—you can ensure the output reflects your unique voice and phrasing. This step is fundamental to moving beyond generic content and truly using AI as a tool that enhances, rather than dilutes, your personal brand.In Summary: My conversation with Anna Addoms was illuminating guide in navigating the AI landscape with wisdom and integrity. Her core message is to embrace AI as a powerful tool for back-office efficiency, freeing you to deepen the human connections that truly matter. Be transparent in its use, be protective of your creative voice, and never forget that technology's highest purpose is to help us become more, not less, human.The Buzz - Our Innovation RoundHere are Anna's answers to the questions of our innovation round. Listen to the conversation to get the full scoop.* Most innovative use of AI to enhance human relationships – By taking administrative minutia off people's plates, it allows them to focus on human-to-human interaction.* Best thing to integrate AI and human connection – Creating a personalized AI agent or persona trained on your own content so it learns to write in your unique voice.* Differentiate by leveraging AI – Use AI to help run your business effectively in the back office, not to be in business with your clients.ActionChoose a secure AI environment that protects your data, then take the time to train the AI to learn and use your unique voice. This is the foundation for using AI effectively and authentically in your business.Reach OutYou can reach out and thank Anna by visiting her website or finding her on LinkedIn.Links* Website – Wicked Marvelous* Twitter – @WickedMarvelous* LinkedIn* Facebook* InstagramCool Things About Anna* Anna grew up in Colorado in a family of entrepreneurs, right in the thick of the tech boom. She was raised around innovation and search engines, with her dad running AOL's biggest competitor during the first dot-com bubble. That's a childhood spent at the intersection of curiosity and code.* She's a creative at heart: Anna went to art school and holds a degree in English Literature. Her journey from art and literature to Silicon Valley tech startups is a delightful zigzag, not a straight line. She's proof that you can be both a techie and a creative soul.* She's a self-confessed “sponge of knowledge,” always learning, always curious. Anna's love of learning has led her down unexpected paths—from luxury travel to ad agencies to med-tech startups. She's not afraid to pivot, experiment, or start over if it means staying true to her values.Imagine being a part of a select community where you not only have access to our amazing podcast guests, but you also get a chance to transform your marketing and podcast into a growth engine with a human-centered, relationship-focused approach.That's exactly what you'll get when you join the Flywheel Nation Community.Tap into the collective wisdom of high-impact achievers, gain exclusive access to resources, and expand your network in our vibrant community.Experience accelerated growth, breakthrough insights, and powerful connections to elevate your business.ACT NOW – secure your spot and transform your journey today! Visit innovabiz.co/flywheel and get ready to experience the power of transformation.VideoThanks for reading Innovabiz Substack! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit innovabiz.substack.com/subscribe
Join host Clay Edwards and co-hosts Shaun Yurtkuran and Lindsey Beckham for another unfiltered edition of Uncensored Live, streaming live every Sunday through Thursday. This episode kicks off with a lively introduction to the hosts' daily shows: Catch Shaun and Lindsey on Crossing the Aisle weekdays from noon to 1 PM on WYAB 103.9 FM in Central Mississippi, or stream it worldwide on their YouTube and Facebook channels (with plans to expand to X soon). Clay hosts The Clay Edwards Show every Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 9 AM on the same station, available on social media platforms. As the second full week of this new format rolls on, the trio dives into a mix of throwback stories, local news breakdowns, and fiery discussions on crime, politics, and cultural shifts. Nostalgic Throwbacks and Early Internet Shenanigans: The conversation starts light-hearted with shoutouts to viewers like Junk and RaccoonMan60 on YouTube, sparking a fun chat about quirky usernames tied to old Gmail and AOL accounts. The hosts reminisce about their embarrassing early online handles—Clay's "BudLightAholic69" from AOL chat room days (which hilariously carried over into booking big bands like Papa Roach for his club), Shaun's MySpace monikers like "RedneckRockstar" and "Made of Scars" (inspired by a Stone Sour song), and Lindsey's cringe-worthy Yahoo and MySpace relics. They laugh about deleting MySpace accounts during breakups, getting mad over Top 8 friend lists, and wild road trip antics like writing "Honk if you MySpace" on a Nissan Xterra's window during a chaotic New Orleans adventure. The group reflects on '90s and early 2000s tech: ASL queries in chat rooms, dial-up AOL, illegal downloads via Napster and LimeWire (and the viruses that "gave your computer instant AIDS"), burning CDs, and the excitement of switching to Roadrunner cable modems. They share stories of sketchy online interactions, pondering how many "old men" were lurking in those chat rooms, and tie it back to modern kids' lack of understanding of rejection or dial-up frustrations. Retro Rides and First Cars: Shifting gears, the hosts bond over '90s and 2000s vehicles: Nissan Xterras as the ultimate "2000s car," Mitsubishi Montero Sports aging well, jacked-up Porsche SUVs looking like zombie apocalypse rigs, and first cars like Shaun's 1985 Ford Bronco and a Ford Probe GT. They geek out over Geo Storms, '96 Mustangs, and custom rides, sharing awkward encounters like Clay waving down a neighbor to compliment his vehicle—only to get a cold response. Local News Breakdown: Jackson's Park Pivot and City Improvements: Things get serious with breaking news from the Clarion Ledger: New Jackson Mayor John Horn scraps the Lumumba-era "Pulse at Farish Street" park plan (involving skate parks, pickleball courts, and more) tied to a federal bribery scandal. Instead, the site will become a functional parking lot for the Jackson Convention Complex, addressing long-standing issues like inadequate parking and crumbling lots. The hosts praise the common-sense move, criticizing the original plan's focus on "white" activities like frisbee golf and pickleball in a 90% Black city, and highlight how it could generate revenue without fixed investments. They discuss broader Jackson challenges: crime deterring development, the need for events over permanent fixtures, and how simply stopping "wrong things" (like incompetence in contracts) could heal the city. Shoutouts to Super Chats and viewer support lead to ideas for community events funded by donations. Crime and Altercations: Adams County Incident and Self-Defense Debates: The episode tackles a viral video of an altercation in Adams County near Natchez, where a group of white men assaulted Black cyclist Reginald Butler on a bridge. Butler later returned armed, leading to a second confrontation where he shot one assailant (Cameron Talton) in self-defense, resulting in arrests on both sides (aggravated assault for Butler and others). The hosts dissect the confusing reports, questioning if it's a hate crime (potentially drawing Ben Crump), the role of Butler retrieving a gun, and self-defense laws (no duty to retreat in Mississippi, but leaving and returning complicates claims). They compare it to past cases like a local manslaughter involving a bouncer and emphasize waiting for full context, as initial videos often mislead (citing a Crystal Springs trooper incident). Policy Proposals and Cultural Critiques: Ski Mask Ban and COVID Reflections: Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade's proposal to ban ski masks in public (citing intimidation and evading facial recognition) sparks debate on masks generally—COVID-era "face diapers," hoodies in summer as red flags for crime, and why concealing identity screams suspicion. The hosts slam draconian COVID measures (e.g., Tate Reeves banning boats on reservoirs, restaurant restrictions), praising Florida's pivot while criticizing California's extremes (filling skate parks with sand). They reflect on unaccountable politicians, lost loved ones dying alone, and calls for laws like the "No One Left Alone Act." National Hot Topics: Epstein Files, Trump Admin Drama, and More: The discussion heats up on Jeffrey Epstein files: Trump's shifting stance ("release credible information"), Megyn Kelly's takedown of Ben Shapiro, demands from Mike Johnson, and speculation on black swan events distracting from it. They critique conservative influencers like Charlie Kirk for dodging the topic to maintain access, praise independent voices like Tucker Carlson and Kelly, and tie in Biden's preemptive pardons (e.g., for Fauci, Hunter) as legally dubious blankets covering potential crimes like gain-of-function research linked to millions of deaths. Shoutouts and Local Plugs: Shoutouts to viewers, Super Chats, and local businesses like Mocha Mugs in Rankin County (two locations: drive-thru at the old bank near Burgers Blues Barbecue and another at the Exxon by Kroger). The hosts encourage supporting local spots and tipping generously. Wrap-Up and Teasers: This episode blends humor, nostalgia, and hard-hitting analysis, proving why Uncensored Live is a must-watch for unvarnished takes on Mississippi life and beyond. Tune in tomorrow for more—same time, same raw energy. Follow on YouTube, Facebook, X, and WYAB 103.9 FM. What did you think of the Adams County case or the ski mask ban? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
Send us a textRelive the glory days of 1990s chat rooms and instant messaging. How 70s soft rock helped soothe my soul. Some of the biggest 'what ifs' in the world of athletics.Episode 204 finds a shady spot filled with Gen-X nostalgia during the heat of summer.The show begins with a story that is part music retrospective and part reflection on my own life. During a particularly bad period of mental health struggles, I found solace in an unexpected place. Soft rock, particularly that from the 1970s, became a major part of everyday life for me. In this segment, I explain how 70s soft rock saved my sanity.We go back to the glory days of early internet as we take a deep dive into 1990s chat rooms and instant messaging. Were you a user of AIM, ICQ, MSN, or something else? The good, the bad, the weird, and the dangerous, it's all a part of this segmentNot all who are hyped reach their potential. In this week's Top 5 we look as some of the biggest 'could have been' athletes ever. Whether bad luck, laziness, or other circumstances, these people are up there when it comes to 'what ifs' in sports.There is a brand new This Week In History and Time Capsule looking back at the 40th anniversary of the iconic Live Aid concert.Become a supporter on Patreon! $5/mo. gets you access to bonus podcast episodes and more!Helpful Links from this EpisodePurchase My New Book Cape Cod Beyond the Beach!In My Footsteps: A Cape Cod Travel Guide(2nd Edition)Hooked By Kiwi - Etsy.comDJ Williams MusicKeeKee's Cape Cod KitchenChristopher Setterlund.comCape Cod Living - Zazzle StoreSubscribe on YouTube!Initial Impressions 2.0 BlogWebcam Weekly Wrapup PodcastCJSetterlundPhotos on Etsy70s/80s Soft Rock - Spotify PlaylistListen to Episode 203 hereSupport the show
Shakira BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.The past week has been a significant one for Shakira, marked by both setbacks and milestones, underscoring her resilience and ongoing global influence. The biggest headline, reported by AOL and USA TODAY, is the cancellation of two key North American shows back in May—the Boston and Washington, D.C., dates of her highly anticipated Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour—due to logistical and production complications, notably structural issues at Fenway Park. As a result, the D.C. show, part of WorldPride DC 2025's Welcome Concert, was axed at the last minute, with Shakira expressing heartbreak on social media and promising to return as soon as possible. Despite this, the tour's North American leg continued, with a major upcoming stadium show now slated for August 4 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, a venue change and date shift from the original June scheduling, according to JamBase. The Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran tour is notable for being her first world tour since 2018, featuring a massive production with 145 crew members, 13 costume changes, and new music created specifically for the show, reflecting her ambition to deliver a career-defining experience for fans.Beyond music, Shakira is making business moves. On Instagram, she celebrated the expansion of her hair care brand, Isima, now available at Ulta Beauty stores across America. She personally thanked Ulta and fans in a dedicated post, highlighting the brand's growth as a significant step in her entrepreneurial portfolio. This kind of direct engagement with both fans and business news is a hallmark of her personal brand, as is her continued openness about her personal life; she recently spoke to GQ about how music became a healing process for her following her high-profile split from Gerard Piqué, sharing that her perspective on love has changed but she's now focused on her children and creative endeavors.Socially, Shakira is not in the news for dramatic relationships, but for more positive, everyday moments—like being photographed drawing along New York's High Line after a tattoo session and sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of her birthday rehearsals for the Grammy's, where she's nominated for Best Latin Pop Album. Her willingness to show both polished and candid sides continues to endear her to millions.As for future touring, while there is much speculation and excitement among fans—the UK's Hospitality Centre reports rumors of a possible 2025 UK leg—there are no official announcements yet. Shakira herself posted on Instagram that after returning to South America at year's end, European and Asian dates may follow, so fans should keep an eye out for official news. In the meantime, the star's ability to juggle global tours, brand growth, and authentic fan engagement keeps her in the spotlight, even on weeks without a single scandal—just Shakira being Shakira.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta
In the past week, the global conversation surrounding Ozempic and weight loss has continued to intensify, with increasing focus on both individual experiences and widespread public perceptions. As Novo Nordisk's semaglutide-based drug Ozempic remains in high demand, many people are seeking clarity about its effectiveness, potential side effects, and the social realities emerging from its rapid adoption. High-profile advocates and critics alike have framed the Ozempic debate as not only a story of medical advancement but a deep personal journey for many Americans.Recent reporting from Healthline highlights that Ozempic is commonly prescribed off label for weight loss, while its sister medication Wegovy is fully approved for this use by the Food and Drug Administration. Both medications are part of a drug class known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, designed to help manage type two diabetes and now increasingly used to combat obesity. Experts are growing more vocal about how to use these medications safely. For instance, new research suggests that people using GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic should pay close attention to their protein intake and maintain regular resistance training. These practices help offset the risk of muscle loss, a now well-documented side effect of rapid weight loss induced by these drugs. According to registered dietitians cited by Healthline, combining a robust intake of lean protein with regular exercise is critical for preserving muscle mass and supporting overall health during medication-assisted weight reduction.Scientific analysis continues to uncover which factors help people succeed with GLP-1 agonists. Medical News Today reports this week that longer duration on GLP-1 therapy, higher baseline body fat, and not having diabetes at initiation are all associated with greater weight loss. Of note, women with lower skeletal muscle mass seem to shed more weight with Ozempic than those with higher muscle reserves, though the reasons remain under exploration.Social media and celebrity culture remain deeply intertwined with public interest in Ozempic. Over the last few days, Oprah Winfrey once again took the spotlight with renewed commentary on her own weight loss journey and her use of a doctor-prescribed GLP-1 medication. According to Times of India and complementary statements in OnlyMyHealth and AOL, Oprah continues to stress that medication is only one piece of her broader wellness focus. She practices mindful eating, regular early dinners, and maintains physical activity with routines such as hiking and weight training. Hydration, emotional self-acceptance, and letting go of guilt are all recurring themes in her public statements. Unlike many who chase an ideal weight, Oprah refrains from publicizing a target number and instead defines success as feeling strong, mobile, and well. She views her medication as a tool to help prevent the yo-yo dieting cycle rather than a shortcut or ultimate solution. Oprah has deliberately not disclosed the brand name of her GLP-1 prescription, but the timing of her involvement in this discussion coincides with the dramatic rise of Ozempic and similar drugs in the last two years.Beyond personal transformations, legal concerns regarding Ozempic and related drugs are mounting. As of July, nearly two thousand lawsuits are pending against Novo Nordisk and other manufacturers, many of which allege side effects such as hair loss and gastrointestinal distress. At the same time, medical researchers from Stanford announced a promising development: a naturally occurring molecule that appears to suppress appetite with fewer side effects than semaglutide in animal studies, a finding that could influence future treatment options and potentially address some longstanding concerns about Ozempic's tolerability.Still, amid the science and spectacle, the consensus among leading health voices remains consistent this week. Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications represent a genuine leap forward for many individuals struggling with obesity, but they are best regarded not as miracle cures, but as valuable tools within a broader, doctor-guided plan. Both physical and emotional wellness, supported by nutrition and compassionate self-care, are required for sustainable results. The high-profile weight loss journeys of public figures like Oprah Winfrey serve as potent reminders that medication can help, but real transformation asks more from every person than simply filling a prescription.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.Come back next week for more.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.ai
Are you ready to break free from self-doubt and finally claim your place as the authority you were born to be?In this inspiring episode of What the Nell, Nell sits down with Christine Blosdale, 5-time #1 bestselling author and expert authority coach with over 25 years in personal branding, magnetic marketing, and multimedia. Christine shares the story of how a single moment behind the microphone transformed her life forever, and how you can harness that same courage to step into your brilliance. From her early days as the unforgettable Beatbox Betty, working with America Online, Microsoft, and more to coaching entrepreneurs to amplify their voice, Christine proves that authenticity is the most powerful marketing strategy of all.Together, they dig deep into why high achievers are especially prone to imposter syndrome and how you can silence your inner critic. Christine reveals practical strategies to build unshakable confidence, communicate your message clearly, and create a podcast or platform that resonates. Whether you're an entrepreneur, coach, or creative, you'll learn why your story matters and how to share it in a way that inspires others and attracts your ideal audience.Timestamps:01:45 – Christine's on-air moment that changed everything05:30 – The story behind Beatbox Betty & early AOL days10:20 – Navigating 9/11 and redefining purpose14:15 – The power of audio connection & radio stories18:40 – Why high achievers feel imposter syndrome23:00 – Practical tips to build confidence28:30 – Staying consistent with your podcast32:40 – The myth of overnight success36:15 – Fun lightning round questions39:50 – Christine's free gift & where to find herConnect with Christine:To book a free discovery call or take the quiz: https://www.christineblosdale.comConnect with us:What the Nell!? Podcast WebsiteJoin the What the Nell!? Podcast Facebook group HERE!Grab a copy of Nell's #1 Bestseller, Curvature of the Career, HERE!Connect with Nell on Social Media:FacebookInstagramProduced by enTICEing Media, LLC
Pat Fitzgerald-Bocarsly moved from California to Boston and then settled with her husband in New Jersey where she and he both serve in academics at Rutgers and Princeton (in that order). Three adult children, 6 grandkids and a life of adventure and religion and successes in many areas of life. You will enjoy meeting this provost of Rutgers with much more to say about her worries and her hopes for the future. Historical marker includes the First Crusade, Boeing, and Versace and Twitter.Support the showThanks for listening. Please share the pod with your mates, and feel free to comment right here! Write to Bob on his email -- bobmendo@AOL.comLink to https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078996765315 on Facebook. Bobs Your Uncle features the opinions of Bob Mendelsohn and any of his guests.To financially support the podcast, go to the Patreon site and choose Gold, Silver or Bronze levels. Thanks for that! https://www.patreon.com/BobsYourUncle To read Bob's 1999 autobiography, click this link https://bit.ly/StoryBob To see photos of any of Bob's guests, they are all on an album on his Flickr site click here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/bobmendo/albums/72177720296857670
Planet Buzz's episode about “URANUS 0° GEMINI Alakazam!”.Imagine a Jetstream of boomerang conversations, lights, sounds, pictures in every color. Making shadows that sizzle as they dance into dimensions we know intuitively. The secret lives in the moment to experience life shattering the past into a spectrum of new language that speak between the galaxies of worlds not expressed,” said Sue Minahan, founder, and host of weekly show. “Uranus in Gemini joins a squad of cosmic realities juxtaposed and alternating in their new archetypal wonder. It explodes the mind to consider how it might work. Yet, like visitors on a savored journey, we have one another. The community of consciousness will be shared in new dimensions.” Talk Cosmos Planet Buzz connects with a myriad of new or returning Special Guests from around the USA and parts of the world contemplating potent subjects concerning us all. Internationally acclaimed master astrologer Rick Levine of Redmond, Washington joins host Sue Minahan of Kailua Kona, Hawai'i and team member Dr. Laura Tadd (PhD) of Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia. Bios also on Talk Cosmos website tab, Our Guests for Season 8. Be sure to stay connected with us and subscribe for all our latest episodes on YouTube, Facebook, radio and Podcasts!RICK LEVINE: a world-renowned astrologer, consultant, teacher, scholar, author and a widely respected active voice in the global astrology community. Lecturing professionally for seminars and workshops around the world including a 12-day annual retreat in Goa India, Nov 20-Dec 2, 2025. He has a special gift for bridging the gaps between astrology and spirituality, science and religion, the head and heart. For over twenty years, millions of readers from around the world became acquainted with the relevance of astrology through Rick's authentic daily horoscopes that appeared on Yahoo, AOL, Huffington Post, LA Times, Tarot.com, and more. Tens of thousands of serious astrology students view Rick's teachings monthly on YouTube, Instagram, Patreon, Facebook and The Astrology Hub. Published articles and poems in many magazines and websites, including The Mountain Astrologer. email: rlevine@stariq.comricklevineastrologer.com; StarIQ.com; patreon.com/ricklevine; / @ricklevine DR. LAURA TADD: A spiritually oriented psychological astrologer, Dr. Tadd works as an astrological counselor, writer, teacher, and lecturer both in-person and remotely with people worldwide. Laura teaches 6–8-week online courses on astrology and personal mythology and co-facilitates retreats https://www.MythicSky.comSUE ROSE MINAHAN: an Evolutionary Astrologer Consultant, speaker, writer, workshops. Vibrational Astrology student, Dwarf Planet Astrology graduate & tutor, Kepler Astrologer Toastmasters charter member, & Wine Country Speakers member. Associate of Fine Arts Music Degree, a Certificate of Fine Arts in Jazz. Mythology enthusiast, Musician, Artist. Founder of Talk Cosmos since April 7, 2018. Engaging weekly with guests delivering insightful conversations to awaken heart and soul consciousness. Talk Cosmos 2025 season 8 on YouTube, Facebook, radio & podcasts.#astrology #ricklevine #ISAR #Keplercollegeofastrologicalartsandsciences #keplerastrologycollege #MythicSkyAstrology #LauraTaddPhD #sueroseminahanastrologer #sueminahan #astroweather #youtubepodcast #astrology #astrologers #planetbuzz #talkcosmos #jupiterincance #KKNWAM #kknw1150 #radio #podcast #youtube #consciousnessexpansion #astrologyfacts #spirituality#spiritualawakening #deeptalk #thoughtprovoking #spiritualgrowth #inspireandbeinspired #astrologywisdom #astrologyfacts #astrologytips #astrologyinsights #patreon #TheAstrologyHubRickLevine #stariq #uranusingeminiSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Peso Pluma BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.The past week for Peso Pluma has been marked by both headline-grabbing news and widespread fan engagement. Arguably the most significant event was his decision to cancel his highly anticipated concert in Tijuana, after receiving direct death threats reportedly from a cartel group. According to AOL News, the announcement came just days ahead of the scheduled show, making international headlines and raising ongoing concerns about the impact of organized crime on public life and the safety of major Latin artists. This story is being framed by media as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by Mexican performers who reach Peso's level of fame.In parallel to this breaking news, Peso Pluma's business activities continue to demonstrate his international reach. As reported by Variety and AOL, he recently announced a massive North American arena tour dubbed “Éxodo,” which spans over 35 dates and includes stops at top venues in Seattle, Las Vegas, Miami, and festival appearances in New York and Chicago. The tour is produced by Live Nation and is slated to run through October, attracting huge attention and solidifying Peso Pluma as one of the most in-demand Latin artists of 2025.Meanwhile, social media keeps humming with Peso Pluma content and conversation. On Instagram, the taco date night post featuring Peso Pluma and Kenia Os—said to reveal their favorite taco order—has fans buzzing and speculating about a potential collaboration or romance, though these rumors are not confirmed. Another Instagram post from July 12 by Releese.io praised Peso Pluma among top artists like SZA, highlighting the strategies behind successful musical releases, which only amplifies his profile as a smart, business-savvy star in the industry.Adding to the pop culture whirlwind, LAist covered a Peso Pluma lookalike contest in Echo Park, Los Angeles. Fans flocked to compete in hopes of embodying his signature style, demonstrating just how deeply Peso Pluma's persona has permeated the zeitgeist. The contest not only drew local media but also crowned a winner who declared Peso “one of the greatest artists right now,” underlining his current cultural dominance.In music news, Peso Pluma's album “Éxodo” is receiving critical acclaim, not only for its chart performance but also for breaking barriers for Mexican music globally, as highlighted in a July 9 broadcast. His Grammy win for “Génesis” earlier this year continues to be referenced as a pivotal moment, marking him as a transformative figure for the genre. On the business side, his team's global distribution deal with The Orchard points to strategic positioning for further international growth.Public appearances this week have been more virtual and indirect, with Peso's shows in Europe, including a July 14 date in Cologne, officially canceled—further fallout from the threats and security concerns. While no direct appearances made news, Peso Pluma remains a dominant presence in press coverage, industry circles, and the digital sphere.There are no verified reports of new collaborations or major personal developments beyond what's public on social media, and all rumors should be considered unconfirmed unless coming from Peso Pluma or his official team. The last several days underscore Peso Pluma's precarious position as both a chart-topping artist and a figure navigating real-world dangers, his every move scrutinized by fans, media, and the industry alike.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta
Planet Buzz's episode about “URANUS 0° GEMINI Alakazam!”. Imagine a Jetstream of boomerang conversations, lights, sounds, pictures in every color. Making shadows that sizzle as they dance into dimensions we know intuitively. The secret lives in the moment to experience life shattering the past into a spectrum of new language that speak between the galaxies of worlds not expressed,” said Sue Minahan, founder, and host of weekly show. “Uranus in Gemini joins a squad of cosmic realities juxtaposed and alternating in their new archetypal wonder. It explodes the mind to consider how it might work. Yet, like visitors on a savored journey, we have one another. The community of consciousness will be shared in new dimensions.” Talk Cosmos Planet Buzz connects with a myriad of new or returning Special Guests from around the USA and parts of the world contemplating potent subjects concerning us all. Internationally acclaimed master astrologer Rick Levine of Redmond, Washington joins host Sue Minahan of Kailua Kona, Hawai'i and team member Dr. Laura Tadd (PhD) of Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia. Bios also on Talk Cosmos website tab, Our Guests for Season 8. Be sure to stay connected with us and subscribe for all our latest episodes on YouTube, Facebook, radio and Podcasts! RICK LEVINE: a world-renowned astrologer, consultant, teacher, scholar, author and a widely respected active voice in the global astrology community. Lecturing professionally for seminars and workshops around the world including a 12-day annual retreat in Goa India, Nov 20-Dec 2, 2025. He has a special gift for bridging the gaps between astrology and spirituality, science and religion, the head and heart. For over twenty years, millions of readers from around the world became acquainted with the relevance of astrology through Rick's authentic daily horoscopes that appeared on Yahoo, AOL, Huffington Post, LA Times, Tarot.com, and more. Tens of thousands of serious astrology students view Rick's teachings monthly on YouTube, Instagram, Patreon, Facebook and The Astrology Hub. Published articles and poems in many magazines and websites, including The Mountain Astrologer. email: rlevine@stariq.com ricklevineastrologer.com; StarIQ.com; patreon.com/ricklevine; / @ricklevine DR. LAURA TADD: A spiritually oriented psychological astrologer, Dr. Tadd works as an astrological counselor, writer, teacher, and lecturer both in-person and remotely with people worldwide. Laura teaches 6–8-week online courses on astrology and personal mythology and co-facilitates retreats https://www.MythicSky.com SUE ROSE MINAHAN: an Evolutionary Astrologer Consultant, speaker, writer, workshops. Vibrational Astrology student, Dwarf Planet Astrology graduate & tutor, Kepler Astrologer Toastmasters charter member, & Wine Country Speakers member. Associate of Fine Arts Music Degree, a Certificate of Fine Arts in Jazz. Mythology enthusiast, Musician, Artist. Founder of Talk Cosmos since April 7, 2018. Engaging weekly with guests delivering insightful conversations to awaken heart and soul consciousness. Talk Cosmos 2025 season 8 on YouTube, Facebook, radio & podcasts. #astrology #ricklevine #ISAR #Keplercollegeofastrologicalartsandsciences #keplerastrologycollege #MythicSkyAstrology #LauraTaddPhD #sueroseminahanastrologer #sueminahan #astroweather #youtubepodcast #astrology #astrologers #planetbuzz #talkcosmos #jupiterincance #KKNWAM #kknw1150 #radio #podcast #youtube #consciousnessexpansion #astrologyfacts #spirituality#spiritualawakening #deeptalk #thoughtprovoking #spiritualgrowth #inspireandbeinspired #astrologywisdom #astrologyfacts #astrologytips #astrologyinsights #patreon #TheAstrologyHubRickLevine #stariq #uranusingemini
My guest today is Alyscia Cunningham. Alyscia Cunningham is a multifaceted award-winning author, filmmaker, tactile artist, and photographer with contributions that have graced esteemed platforms such as the Smithsonian, National Geographic, Discovery Channel, and AOL. Her advocacy extends to ensuring her art is accessible for all to experience. At the heart of her artistic journey is a deep commitment to making a significant impact through her documentaries and horror films. She delves into pressing issues surrounding women's beauty and health and creates narratives of resilience and triumph over adversity. Alyscia's work is a testament to her passion for storytelling that enlightens, challenges, and inspires. Rooted in her identity as a first-generation Trinidadian American, Alyscia's early fascination with storytelling was sparked by the tales of resilience, folklore, and life lessons shared by her Caribbean elders. These narratives of triumph over adversity and cultural heritage fuel her creative passion, driving her work in both documentary and narrative filmmaking.As the founder of Her House Media, Alyscia champions the production of documentary and horror films written and directed by women of color. In parallel, she leads Uprising Builders, a Maryland-based home improvement company, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence across different sectors. In this episode we discuss photography, art, creativity, self-love, diversity and beauty standards.Website - https://alyscia.com/IG - https://www.instagram.com/alysciacunningham/FB - https://www.facebook.com/AlysciaCunninghamLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyscia/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/alysciacunninghamIn this episode you will learn:1. Why community and collaboration are essential for growth.2. The importance of staying true to yourself and embracing your authenticity.3. How art can be a vehicle for change in society and the power that it holds. “We are creating every day. So whether you're creating, some people might be good in writing a letter that's creative. I'm not so good with that. Some people might be great with picking up a camera and being an amazing cinematographer."- 00:05:17“One thing that I wish they would know is that they can do it. That's the biggest thing that I feel like I'm constantly telling women is you have the idea, don't wait for permission, just do it." 00:21:00“Success for me is having a thought. I love, actually, I feel like this kind of gives me a rush too, but having a thought and then seeing it to fruition, that's success. ” 00:40:42
Recorded live at the 2025 Sunshine Cyber Conference in Tampa, Jack Clabby of Carlton Fields and resident cybersecurity expert Kayley Melton, executive director of operations at the Cognitive Security Institute, sit down with Kathy Collins, security consultant at Secure Ideas. Kathy shares her extraordinary journey, which began at the AOL help desk, took a flavorful […]
The smallest technical decisions become humanity's biggest pivots:The same-origin policy—a well-intentioned browser security rule from the 1990s—accidentally created Facebook, Google, and every data monopoly since. It locks your data in silos—and you stayed where your stuff already is. This dynamic created aggregators.Alex Komoroske—who led Chrome's web platform team at Google and ran corporate strategy at Stripe—saw this pattern play out firsthand. And he's obsessed with the tiny decisions that will shape AI's next 30 years:- Whether AI keeps memory centrally or user-controlled?- Is AI free/ad-supported or user-paid?- Should AI be engagement-maximizing or intention-aligned?- How should we handle prompt injection in MCP and agentic systems?- Should AI be built with AOL-style aggregation or web-style openness?This is a much-watch if you care about the future of AI and humanity.If you found this episode interesting, please like, subscribe, comment, and share! Want even more?Sign up for Every to unlock our ultimate guide to prompting ChatGPT here: https://every.ck.page/ultimate-guide-to-prompting-chatgpt. It's usually only for paying subscribers, but you can get it here for free.To hear more from Dan Shipper:Subscribe to Every: https://every.to/subscribe Follow him on X: https://twitter.com/danshipper Sponsors: Google Gemini: Experience high quality AI video generation with Google's most capable video model: Veo 3. Try it in the Gemini app at gemini.google with a Google AI Pro plan or get the highest access with the Ultra plan.Attio: Go to https://attio.com/every and get 15% off your first year on your AI-powered CRM.Timestamps:Introduction: 00:01:45Why chatbots are a feature not a paradigm: 00:04:25Toward AI that's aligned with our intentions: 00:06:50The four pillars of “intentional technology”: 00:11:54The type of structures in which intentional technology can thrive: 00:14:16Why ChatGPT is the AOL of the AI era: 00:18:26Why AI needs to break out of the silos of the early internet: 00:25:55Alex's personal journey into systems-thinking: 00:41:53How LLMs can encode what we know but can't explain: 00:48:15Can LLMs solve the coordination problem inside organizations: 00:54:35The under-discussed risk of prompt injection: 01:01:39Links to resources mentioned in the episode:Alex Komoroske: @komoramaCommon Tools: https://common.tools/ The public Google document with Alex's raw ideas and thoughts: Bits and BobsA couple of Alex's favorite books: Why Information Grows by Cesar Hidalgo and The Origin of Wealth by Eric Beinhocker
Ozempic continues to dominate conversations about weight loss, drawing attention from both the medical community and celebrity circles over the past week. This injectable medication, originally designed to manage type two diabetes, has increasingly become known for its ability to help people shed pounds. According to information from Northwestern University published just yesterday, users of Ozempic typically see a gradual but significant reduction in body weight, with clinical trials showing average losses of ten to fifteen percent over the course of a year. For most, the medication begins to make a noticeable difference after about six to eight weeks, particularly when combined with improved diet and regular exercise. However, experts are quick to caution that Ozempic is not a magic solution; sustainable weight loss still relies on lifestyle changes such as healthy eating and physical activity.In the last week, the public conversation around Ozempic has taken on new dimensions. One of the most visible aspects is its popularity among celebrities. According to coverage in the Financial Express from July seventh, high-profile users like Oprah Winfrey, Sharon Osbourne, Whoopi Goldberg, and Rebel Wilson have shared their experiences with Ozempic. Their stories have contributed to the drug's reputation as Hollywood's preferred method for rapid, dramatic weight reduction. However, this visibility has also drawn attention to some unexpected consequences. Dermatologists report an uptick in people experiencing what is now being called Ozempic mouth, a condition marked by significant volume loss and increased wrinkles around the mouth and jawline, which can result in an aged appearance. The rapid loss of facial fat has caused some to seek cosmetic treatments like dermal fillers or skin-tightening procedures to counteract these effects.Oprah Winfrey has been especially vocal and candid about her Ozempic journey in the past week. Reports from Deaconess Health and SheFinds note that Oprah has discussed the medication's role in her recent forty-pound weight loss, which she has attributed to Ozempic, healthy eating, and consistent exercise. During her recent trip to Venice for a celebrity wedding, Winfrey was photographed sporting a noticeably slimmer physique while working out with Gayle King. Fans on social media praised her transformation, and Winfrey herself has emphasized the importance of pairing any medication with dedication to overall well-being. Furthermore, Oprah recently hosted a "State of Weight" panel as part of her ongoing efforts to foster open discussion about weight loss, the struggles involved, and the tools that can help.While Ozempic maintains its position as a popular weight loss solution, new research published in The New England Journal of Medicine and reported by both HealthDay and AOL this week has challenged its supremacy. The study found that another medication, tirzepatide sold under the names Mounjaro and Zepbound, is even more effective at promoting weight loss. Participants taking tirzepatide averaged a twenty percent reduction in body weight, while those on Ozempic averaged about thirteen percent. Experts note that tirzepatide works on two hormone receptors instead of one, which seems to explain its stronger effect. Despite these new findings, Ozempic's influence remains powerful because of its proven track record and cultural prominence.Still, significant safety concerns persist regarding Ozempic's use for weight loss. The Motley Rice law firm and other health sources have reported ongoing lawsuits related to serious side effects, including gastrointestinal issues and, in rare cases, vision loss. Moreover, many patients regain much of the weight they lost if they discontinue the medication, pointing to the need for ongoing management and support rather than quick fixes.In summary, the past week has seen Ozempic's celebrity power and medical potential both celebrated and scrutinized. Oprah Winfrey's openness continues to resonate with many, highlighting that while medications like Ozempic can be helpful tools, the broader journey of weight management demands a holistic approach. The emergence of alternatives such as tirzepatide may shift the landscape, but one message remains clear from experts and high-profile users alike: sustainable weight loss requires lasting lifestyle change, not just a prescription.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. Come back next week for more.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.ai
To celebrate Independence Day, we teamed up with a big imaginary Hollywood studio to produce this special episode. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll kiss three bucks goodbye. Really, of course, we are one of the top 10 best podcasts in the computer hardware field, so if you're serious about your computer hardware podcasts, you're going to check this out regardless. We've got BSOD's, Nvidia drivers going away, and even hardcoded root passwords.Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:31 Patreon02:31 Food with Josh05:36 RTX 5050 arrives with no reviews09:23 NVIDIA confirms end of support for GTX 10 Series and older11:36 RTX 50 Series SUPER rumors14:09 Intel might have 3D V-Cache competitor with Nova Lake17:24 Stockpiled PCs are not selling23:39 Anker battery bank recall26:31 Apple to release low cost MacBook with iPhone SoC?28:50 BSOD isn't blue anymore32:42 RTX customers get free Adobe CC trials (Adobe slowly becomes the next AOL?)34:41 DDR4 becoming more expensive than DDR537:11 (In)Security Corner48:00 Gaming Quick Hits57:40 Crucial T710 Gen5 SSD Review1:05:47 Picks of the Week1:20:14 Outro ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The leader of the George Ellis Orchestra of Sydney, Australia, is featured again in Part 2 of his 2-part series. He speaks with keen insights into topics like changes in the world and hopes he has for improvement, as well as we see the Lightning Round to help us really get to know his interests. Enjoy!The Historical marker of the week includes Vasco de Gama, The Declaration of Independence and Spice Girls. The prophet Nehemiah chapter 9 is our text of the day.Support the showThanks for listening. Please share the pod with your mates, and feel free to comment right here! Write to Bob on his email -- bobmendo@AOL.comLink to https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078996765315 on Facebook. Bobs Your Uncle features the opinions of Bob Mendelsohn and any of his guests.To financially support the podcast, go to the Patreon site and choose Gold, Silver or Bronze levels. Thanks for that! https://www.patreon.com/BobsYourUncle To read Bob's 1999 autobiography, click this link https://bit.ly/StoryBob To see photos of any of Bob's guests, they are all on an album on his Flickr site click here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/bobmendo/albums/72177720296857670
Do you have a hard time talking about money? Do you feel like you are overspending, especially during these times? Our guest today is Jean Chatzky, editor-at-large for “Money” Magazine who served as AOL's official Money Coach. She is the financial editor for NBC's “Today Show,” as well as a columnist for “Time” Magazine. She is currently a coach and has guided people on Oprah's “Debt Diet.” Today she discusses the underlying causes of debt and offers empowering suggestions. She also talks about her book “Pay It Down.” Jean discusses the difference between “good debt” and “bad debt.” When we spend more than we make on things that are not long-lasting, it does not make us happy. This is unconscious spending. We may not think about what we are spending, but then we get hit with big bills. We are constantly seeing marketing. Jean explains how we can all afford a very nice comfortable life, but we need to look at our choices. Money will buy happiness to a point. If you have a nice place to sleep and good food on the table, you have a level of comfort. And more money may not buy you happiness, but good financial habits can make us feel better. Jean conducted a large study of money and happiness. It is important to pay attention to your finances and/or also have a financial advisor. She talks about improving our credit scores and offers tips and tricks to save money each day. Info: jeanchatzky.com and hermoney.com.
Wingnut Social: The Interior Design Business and Marketing Podcast
Are your vendor spreadsheets quietly killing your profits and sanity? Fragmented sourcing isn't just an inconvenience; it drains time, eats into margins, and creates chaos you can't afford. Host Darla Powell talks with Lee Anne Blake, CEO of The Expert, about why many designers are frustrated with juggling numerous vendors and outdated processes. They discuss how client expectations have changed, with buyers wanting smoother, faster, more transparent experiences, and what it really takes to keep up without losing your personal touch or design integrity. You'll hear about the real challenges designers face when trying to manage a thousand-row spreadsheet of suppliers, the benefits of consolidating orders without sacrificing variety, and how emerging generations of designers are rejecting slow, clunky systems in favor of something easier. It's an honest look at the tradeoffs of stocking-dealer pricing, the risks of vendor instability, and what access to new brands can do for your creative vision and business growth. You'll learn: ✅ Why multi-vendor chaos is hurting your margins and your time. ✅ How shifting client expectations demands a more seamless buying experience. ✅ Ways designers can gain leverage with trade programs and consolidated checkout. ✅ What the future holds for sourcing, from better vendor access to stronger client trust. If you're an interior designer looking to grow your business while staying sane and profitable, this is the episode that's going to help you get there. Listen now and start taking control of your sourcing process before it controls you. (00:00) Intro and setting up the pain of fragmented sourcing. (02:42) What The Expert is and how it evolved from consultations to marketplace. (05:04) How designers can qualify for the consult roster and trade program details. (09:25) Addressing pricing, discounts, and competitive trade concerns. (13:19) Client transparency, design fees, and evolving expectations. (17:03) Generational shifts in buying behavior and the push for streamlined online shopping. (21:12) Future plans for expanding vendor access and improving designer tools. About Lee Anne Blake Lee Anne Blake is the CEO of The Expert, a leading online marketplace transforming how interior designers source and purchase high-end furnishings. With a career rooted in technology, marketplace growth, and media, she brings deep expertise in building user-friendly, scalable solutions that meet real-world needs. Prior to The Expert, Lee Anne led growth at Babylist, helping modernize the way new parents shop and plan. She's also held leadership roles at companies like Google, ShopStyle, PopSugar, and AOL, where she honed her ability to marry technology with seamless customer experiences. At The Expert, Lee Anne is focused on streamlining the often chaotic sourcing process for designers by offering a curated platform with over 180 brands and tens of thousands of products, all in one place with trade pricing and consolidated checkout. She's passionate about empowering small businesses, independent designers, and artisan makers alike, ensuring they have the tools and exposure they need to thrive in a changing, tech-driven world. Outside of work, Lee Anne is a dedicated mom who's no stranger to early mornings and the balancing act of career and family, making her deeply empathetic to the time pressures her customers face daily. Website Instagram
We tell the story of the single greatest business ever created: Google search. From its origins as a Stanford research project called BackRub, Google became the front door to the internet. Today it's an essential service for over half the world, and one that generates more profit than ANY other US company — more than Apple, Microsoft, or Berkshire Hathaway.But it wasn't always so obvious. When Larry and Sergey began working on BackRub in 1996, search was a backwater industry in silicon valley. Existing search companies were eking out a living as vendors to the then-dominant “portals” like AOL and Yahoo. Google's come-from-behind success was the result of three massive step-function leaps forward in algorithms, infrastructure and business model… some invented by Google and some borrowed (and perfected!) by them.Today, things are not so obvious once again for Google. Despite earning more profits than all of its big tech peers, its stock trades at significantly lower multiples — a $1 trillion or more discount to Apple, Microsoft and Nvidia. Investors are concerned that AI will render Google's beautiful business model obsolete, even though Google also basically invented modern AI and continues to lead on many dimensions. This episode begins a multi-part series where we dive into the full history that led us to this point. Tune in and enjoy!Sponsors:Many thanks to our fantastic Summer ‘25 Season partners:J.P. Morgan PaymentsAnthropicStatsigVercelLinks:BackRub recreationOriginal Google logoJeff Dean's resumeWorldly Partners' Multi-Decade Alphabet StudyEpisode sourcesRadio City Live Show:Join us July 15 at Radio City — Ticketmaster: https://acquired.fm/nycJuly 12 Central Park RunJuly 15 Pre-Show MeetupJuly 15 AfterpartyJuly 16 Encore Event with J.P. Morgan PaymentsCarve Outs:The Rehearsal with Nathan Fielder (Season 2)Your Friends and NeighborsAndor Season 2Gamecraft Season 3Steam Deck vs Switch 2 dilemmaMore Acquired:Get email updates with hints on next episode and follow-ups from recent episodesJoin the SlackSubscribe to ACQ2Check out the latest swag in the ACQ Merch Store!Note: Acquired hosts and guests may hold assets discussed in this episode. This podcast is not investment advice, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. You should do your own research and make your own independent decisions when considering any financial transactions.
George is from Sydney and has traveled the world, even conducting orchestras for major symphonies AND for small children's gatherings. He loves people and highlights the reason we have this podcast. You'll meet a beautiful soul. This is Part 1 of a two-part episode with this lovely man. Historical marker includes Johnny Carson, Superman and Niagara Falls, even Hitler's clearing of political enemies.Support the showThanks for listening. Please share the pod with your mates, and feel free to comment right here! Write to Bob on his email -- bobmendo@AOL.comLink to https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078996765315 on Facebook. Bobs Your Uncle features the opinions of Bob Mendelsohn and any of his guests.To financially support the podcast, go to the Patreon site and choose Gold, Silver or Bronze levels. Thanks for that! https://www.patreon.com/BobsYourUncle To read Bob's 1999 autobiography, click this link https://bit.ly/StoryBob To see photos of any of Bob's guests, they are all on an album on his Flickr site click here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/bobmendo/albums/72177720296857670
Justin Bieber BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Justin Bieber has been at the center of both public fascination and media scrutiny over the past several days. Earlier this week, he set social media on fire after changing his longstanding Instagram username from @Justinbieber to @lilbieber, marking the first time he made such a switch since his meteoric rise to stardom. This unexpected rebrand came just as he intensified promotion for his new fashion line, SKYLRK. According to People and AOL, Bieber has been dropping teasers for the brand on his Instagram, sharing sneak peeks of hoodies, sunglasses, and vibrant slide sandals, while the official SKYLRK account remains post-free and the website locked behind a password. The move came on the heels of Bieber's very public split from his former clothing label Drew House. He urged fans to stop supporting Drew House, declaring it no longer represents him or his family, and made clear that Drew is now in his rearview mirror.SKYLRK is also drawing attention for more personal reasons. Some fans and outlets like Page Six noticed the similarities between Bieber's new accessories and certain items from Rhode—the beauty line run by his wife, Hailey Bieber. Hailey herself appears to have had input on SKYLRK's designs, even teasing her involvement on her own social channels earlier in the spring.Professionally, Bieber made headlines for a rare surprise stage appearance during the second stop of SZA and Kendrick Lamar's Grand National Tour at Sofi Stadium. The TBS News reports that his cameo sent fans into a frenzy and reignited conversations about Bieber's possible return to touring. Rumors of a 2025 world tour have been circulating, and TikTok buzz suggests that locations and ticket drop dates could be imminent, though there's no official confirmation from Bieber or his team yet.On the personal front, however, things are turbulent. TMZ detailed a recent public outburst by Bieber that has fueled speculation about trouble in his marriage. Dr. Drew, speaking to TMZ, publicly wondered if the root cause was drama at home, possibly exacerbated by the high-pressure duo-parenting situation now that the couple are parents. Hailey Bieber was seen without her wedding ring, and Justin hinted at the “silent treatment” at home, fueling further breakup rumors. TikTok and fan chatter have been swift, with clips of Bieber's sometimes erratic public behavior going viral in recent days, amplifying worries about his mental state.All of this comes as nostalgia for early Bieber moments spikes, with outlets like TMZ running flashback stories about his childhood dreams and rapid ascent from Canadian busker to global superstar. While some of these stories are lighthearted, the broader tone surrounding Bieber is one of concern about his well-being as he transitions out of one business, dives into another, and faces potential upheaval in his personal life. As of June 28, 2025, his every move—online or offstage—continues to command international attention and speculation about what's next for the pop icon.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta
Whattup PODHEADS! its Summa and its hot as hell ! Keeping it short today check out today's topics below.Mosquitos most hated on the planet and the Destroyers mosquito repellent German Folk tales Magic My dog ate my homework origin and Dog breeds GTA 5Rappers wanting to be streamers Personality stealers I love Bread Aim chat and AOL chat Oovoo and SkypeLast of the No Internet kids In Music News - Smiley - Don't box me in , Chris Brown - Holy Blindfold , Lil Wayne - The Carter 6Follow @degreescouchchronicles on all podcast platforms.Tune into our social for all updates.Click the link here for fitness by Phoenix fit workouts, meals, and more https://www.etsy.com/shop/FitnesswithphoenixGlow Nude @Glow.nude on IG
This week, Shawna and LaLa discuss the never-ending rain, school memories that still linger, and their best summers filled with adventures in the woods, family trips, and AOL IM chats. Don't miss LaLa's review of the educational Lingo Kids app and why Tom from MySpace gets under her skin!
Thank You To Our Partners, The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-BoundWatch Full Video EpisodeEmail-Seriously!In many business conversations the first correspondence is often by email and it is NOT going away anytime soon. While YES email in general has MANY problems there are still professionals who are more responsive to emails than texts or phone calls.We'll be talking about email in terms of impressions, practicality, and interactions.I'll lay a few ideas out and then we'll discuss some best practices for team ownership so email correspondence doesn't result in dropped balls.Today's WOTD is: EloquentWe'll define our word - after we hear a word from our sponsors who make this show possible!adjective: marked by forceful and fluent expression, an eloquent preacher: vividly or movingly expressive or revealing, an eloquent monumentOn Making an Impression:In the aftermarket - and countless other small businesses - it is very common to see email interaction with people using public domain email addresses. This can be the casual: .gmail.com / .icloud.com / .yahoo.com | The older… @aol.com / @hotmail.com / @netscape.com.Or - what I will simply call “serious” emails - those that use their own custom domain names.While we ALL use some casual and older email suffix - I want to raise a few points to help you consider moving yourself or your organization to owning, maintaining, or providing your own email domain.There is just no denying the casual nature of the suffix, and it feels like an afterthought in business settings if you're still relying on .gmail… Sending an email with a link from your shop? Best if it is not from rando@gmail.com.If you're networking, applying for a job, or running a transaction - a more “serious” email suffix does appear more professional, stands out, and builds trust.Is it a game changer? Not always - but like any other feature of a business, it is a factor in how you are being perceived.Communication goes far beyond the words we use - and absolutely involves our outward appearances - even our digital appearance. With most every inbox - before every subject -is the address the email is from.On the older suffixes, it's commonly joked about, but there are strong assumptions that if you have an AOL email address today in 2025 - you most likely no long care that “you've got mail” and you probably won't check it either. Is it fair? No maybe not - but I can speak from experience on this. If you are working with a client using older emails like AOL - and you must email them - I'm a big fan of calling to let those individuals know to check their email… in most cases. If you're offended by this and you use an AOL email - go ahead and send an email to
Sharee Miller convinced her lover, a former police detective, to drive across the Midwest to kill her husband, Bruce Miller. How and why did she go to such lengths to get rid of her husband?
What Hump? Thirty Years of Cybersecurity and the Fine Art of Pretending It's Not a Human ProblemA new transmission from Musing On Society and Technology Newsletter, by Marco CiappelliJune 6, 2025A Post-Infosecurity Europe Reflection on the Strange but Predictable Ways We've Spent Thirty Years Pretending Cybersecurity Isn't About People.⸻ Once there was a movie titled “Young Frankenstein” (1974) — a black-and-white comedy directed by Mel Brooks, written with Gene Wilder, and starring Wilder and Marty Feldman, who delivers the iconic “What hump?” line.Let me describe the scene:[Train station, late at night. Thunder rumbles. Dr. Frederick Frankenstein steps off the train, greeted by a hunched figure holding a lantern — Igor.]Igor: Dr. Frankenstein?Dr. Frederick Frankenstein: It's Franken-steen.Igor: Oh. Well, they told me it was Frankenstein.Dr. Frederick Frankenstein: I'm not a Frankenstein. I'm a Franken-steen.Igor (cheerfully): All right.Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (noticing Igor's eyes): You must be Igor.Igor: No, it's pronounced Eye-gor.Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (confused): But they told me it was Igor.Igor: Well, they were wrong then, weren't they?[They begin walking toward the carriage.]Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (noticing Igor's severe hunchback): You know… I'm a rather brilliant surgeon. Perhaps I could help you with that hump.Igor (looks puzzled, deadpan): What hump?[Cut to them boarding the carriage, Igor climbing on the outside like a spider, grinning wildly.]It's a joke, of course. One of the best. A perfectly delivered absurdity that only Mel Brooks and Marty Feldman could pull off. But like all great comedy, it tells a deeper truth.Last night, standing in front of the Tower of London, recording one of our On Location recaps with Sean Martin, that scene came rushing back. We joked about invisible humps and cybersecurity. And the moment passed. Or so I thought.Because hours later — in bed, hotel window cracked open to the London night — I was still hearing it: “What hump?”And that's when it hit me: this isn't just a comedy bit. It's a diagnosis. Here we are at Infosecurity Europe, celebrating its 30th anniversary. Three decades of cybersecurity: a field born of optimism and fear, grown in complexity and contradiction.We've built incredible tools. We've formed global communities of defenders. We've turned “hacker” from rebel to professional job title — with a 401(k), branded hoodies, and a sponsorship deal. But we've also built an industry that — much like poor Igor — refuses to admit something's wrong.The hump is right there. You can see it. Everyone can see it. And yet… we smile and say: “What hump?”We say cybersecurity is a priority. We put it in slide decks. We hold awareness months. We write policies thick enough to be used as doorstops. But then we underfund training. We silo the security team. We click links in emails that say whatever will make us think it's important — just like those pieces of snail mail stamped URGENT that we somehow believe, even though it turns out to be an offer for a new credit card we didn't ask for and don't want. Except this time, the payload isn't junk mail — it's a clown on a spring exploding out of a fun box.Igor The hump moves, shifts, sometimes disappears from view — but it never actually goes away. And if you ask about it? Well… they were wrong then, weren't they?That's because it's not a technology problem. This is the part that still seems hard to swallow for some: Cybersecurity is not a technology problem. It never was.Yes, we need technology. But technology has never been the weak link.The weak link is the same as it was in 1995: us. The same it was before the internet and before computers: Humans.With our habits, assumptions, incentives, egos, and blind spots. We are the walking, clicking, swiping hump in the system. We've had encryption for decades. We've known about phishing since the days of AOL. Zero Trust was already discussed in 2004 — it just didn't have a cool name yet.So why do we still get breached? Why does a ransomware gang with poor grammar and a Telegram channel take down entire hospitals?Because culture doesn't change with patches. Because compliance is not belief. Because we keep treating behavior as a footnote, instead of the core.The Problem We Refuse to See at the heart of this mess is a very human phenomenon:vIf we can't see it, we pretend it doesn't exist.We can quantify risk, but we rarely internalize it. We trust our tech stack but don't trust our users. We fund detection but ignore education.And not just at work — we ignore it from the start. We still teach children how to cross the street, but not how to navigate a phishing attempt or recognize algorithmic manipulation. We give them connected devices before we teach them what being connected means. In this Hybrid Analog Digital Society, we need to treat cybersecurity not as an optional adult concern, but as a foundational part of growing up. Because by the time someone gets to the workforce, the behavior has already been set.And worst of all, we operate under the illusion that awareness equals transformation.Let's be real: Awareness is cheap. Change is expensive. It costs time, leadership, discomfort. It requires honesty. It means admitting we are all Igor, in some way. And that's the hardest part. Because no one likes to admit they've got a hump — especially when it's been there so long, it feels like part of the uniform.We have been looking the other way for over thirty years. I don't want to downplay the progress. We've come a long way, but that only makes the stubbornness more baffling.We've seen attacks evolve from digital graffiti to full-scale extortion. We've watched cybercrime move from subculture to multi-billion-dollar global enterprise. And yet, our default strategy is still: “Let's build a bigger wall, buy a shinier tool, and hope marketing doesn't fall for that PDF again.”We know what works: Psychological safety in reporting. Continuous learning. Leadership that models security values. Systems designed for humans, not just admins.But those are hard. They're invisible on the balance sheet. They don't come with dashboards or demos. So instead… We grin. We adjust our gait. And we whisper, politely:“What hump?”So what Happens now? If you're still reading this, you're probably one of the people who does see it. You see the hump. You've tried to point it out. Maybe you've been told you're imagining things. Maybe you've been told it's “not a priority this quarter.” And maybe now you're tired. I get it.But here's the thing: Nothing truly changes until we name the hump.Call it bias.Call it culture.Call it education.Call it the human condition.But don't pretend it's not there. Not anymore. Because every time we say “What hump?” — we're giving up a little more of the future. A future that depends not just on clever code and cleverer machines, but on something far more fragile:Belief. Behavior. And the choice to finally stop pretending.We joked in front of a thousand-year-old fortress. Because sometimes jokes tell the truth better than keynote stages do. And maybe the real lesson isn't about cybersecurity at all.Maybe it's just this: If we want to survive what's coming next, we have to see what's already here.- The End➤ Infosecurity Europe: https://www.itspmagazine.com/infosecurity-europe-2025-infosec-london-cybersecurity-event-coverageAnd ... we're not done yet ... stay tuned and follow Sean and Marco as they will be On Location at the following conferences over the next few months:➤ Black Hat USA in Las Vegas in August: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2025-hacker-summer-camp-2025-cybersecurity-event-coverage-in-las-vegasFOLLOW ALL OF OUR ON LOCATION CONFERENCE COVERAGEhttps://www.itspmagazine.com/technology-and-cybersecurity-conference-coverageShare this newsletter and invite anyone you think would enjoy it!As always, let's keep thinking!— Marco [https://www.marcociappelli.com]
When you're building something new, it's easy to get discouraged by how long it takes to gain traction. But if anyone knows how to stay in the game, it's Steve Case. In this episode, the AOL cofounder and Revolution CEO opens up about the grit, patience, and strategy it took to pioneer the internet—and why most success stories take a lot longer than people think. You'll hear how he built AOL through years of slow progress, what he looks for in entrepreneurs today, and how that iconic line, “You've Got Mail,” came to be. If you're feeling stuck or off track, this episode will help you refocus and recharge!You'll also learn: Three qualities of successful entrepreneurs The #1 mindset you need if your business is in growth mode A powerful leadership lesson from the disappointing AOL-Time Warner merger Why a one-size-fits-all leadership style might let you down Take your learning further. Get proven leadership advice from these (free!) resources: The How Leaders Lead App: A vast library of 90-second leadership lessons to stay sharp on the go Daily Insight Emails: One small (but powerful!) leadership principle to focus on each day Whichever you choose, you can be sure you'll get the trusted leadership advice you need to advance your career, develop your team, and grow your business.
Comedian and horror movie fan Samantha Hale joins the show! The duo opens the show with the discovery that they are both the same age, which has them talk about what it was like growing up in NYC vs. LA. They discuss the early days of dial-up internet on AOL. Randy pontificates on what it means to be a “good” person and. Sam talks about self improvement, growing as a person and trusting your gut. The gang shifts gears and talks about Sam's love of horror movies and how they have evolved over the years. Randy probes Sam about the camaraderie between female comics. The two find out they have a similar creative process. Randy moves the conversation to a chat about pet peeves. He then dives into some questions about Samantha's romantic life. The crew talks a little about the progress western society has made, culture, politics and the current social unrest. They close the show talking about some of their favorite horror movies. 00:00 Intro 04:00 East Coast vs. West Coast 12:00 Being a Good Person 35:00 Boyfriend Stories 01:10:00 Making Progress 01:19:00 Running Into People 01:30:00 Horror Movies Outro: “Funk Doctor” by Gee Dubs Social Media: Instagram: @randyvalerio @readysetblowpodcast Twitter: @randytvalerio @readysetblowpodcast TikTok: @randyvaleriocomedy @readysetblowpod YouTube: @randyvaleriocomedy @readysetblowpodcast #comedypodcast #comedy #podcast #podcastclips #comedyvideo #news #advice #standup #standupcomedy #comedian #jokes #politics #relationships #moral #morals #morality #movies #hollywood #losangeles #la #newyork #nyc #40s #growingup #internet #aol #selfimprovement #growth #trust #creative #creativeprocess #dating #Single #singlelife #petpeeve #petpeeves #progress #society #culture #protest #socialunrest #horror #horrormovies #scarymovies
The voice behind the Average Priest podcast is Christine Coleman and she joins Bob on the BYU Podcast to share her views on life, on religion, and the faith she has even if her husband is assigned a different medical residency than what they hope. She's in Connecticut, USA, and would love for you to follow her podcasts.Historical marker includes Henry the Eighth, the Declaration of Independence and Spielberg's ET.Support the showThanks for listening. Please share the pod with your mates, and feel free to comment right here! Write to Bob on his email -- bobmendo@AOL.comLink to https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078996765315 on Facebook. Bobs Your Uncle features the opinions of Bob Mendelsohn and any of his guests.To financially support the podcast, go to the Patreon site and choose Gold, Silver or Bronze levels. Thanks for that! https://www.patreon.com/BobsYourUncle To read Bob's 1999 autobiography, click this link https://bit.ly/StoryBob To see photos of any of Bob's guests, they are all on an album on his Flickr site click here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/bobmendo/albums/72177720296857670
This week the girlies sit down to investigate (and giggle at) some classic cases of the art of catfishing. Featuring stories from listeners and Shannon and Producer Courtney's own life experiences, this episode is full of nonsense. Shania Twain, Matt Rife, Cole Sprouse, the list of victims goes on. They dive into the history of catfishing, where it started and how it's going in 2025. Chat rooms, job offers, and comedians, this episode is full of tea, cautionary tales and even a confession. Listen for a silly throwback to your A/S/L chatroom days. TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Introduction00:08 Pregnancy and the 'I Don't Care' Energy01:12 Catfishing: A Historical Perspective02:29 Modern Catfishing Stories04:44 Chat Roulette Memories06:35 AOL and Chat Room Nostalgia09:29 More Catfishing Stories18:41 Tinder's Height Filter Controversy20:18 A Personal Catfishing Experience27:10 The Comedian Catfish Saga33:50 College Catfishing Confessions46:22 The Matt Rife Catfishing Saga59:01 Final Thoughts and FarewellLINKS:Follow Shannon: https://instagram.com/probablyshannon/Follow Producer Courtney: https://instagram.com/whatsacourtney/Follow Probably A Podcast: https://instagram.com/probablyapodcast/Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/probablyshannonfordProduced by Dear MediaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Ep 248: A father relentlessly hunts for his missing daughter and uncovers a human trafficking ring in his own town This is the Emmarae Gervase Story Sources for Today's Episode: The New York Post People.com Aol.com The Long Island Press An interview of Frank Gervasi on Dr. Phil The Suffolk County News Sponsors: (thanks for using our promo codes, it really does help the show!) Shopify - Turn those dreams into 'CHA CHING' and give them the best shot at success with Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY.COM/crimewomen Credits: Written and Hosted by Amy Shlosberg and Meghan Sacks Produced by James Varga Music by Dessert Media Get Even More Women&Crime Episodes: • Patreon - Ad-free shows starting at $2 a month, or upgrade for $5 a month to get a new extra episode every month, as well as exclusive virtual HappyHours with Meg & Amy. Check-out other tiers for perks such as lectures, true crime book club, and more! Visit our Patreon page for more info: https://www.patreon.com/womenandcrime • Apple Subscriptions - Exclusive episodes and ad-free regular stories are now available through Apple's podcast app for only $4.99 a month, or save with an annual membership. • YouTube Memberships - Exclusive episode available on YouTube for only $4.99 a month. https://www.youtube.com/@WomenandCrime/membership Help is Available: If you or someone you know is in a crisis situation, or a victim of domestic, or other violence, there are many organizations that can offer support or help you in your specific situation. For direct links to these organizations please visit https://womenandcrimepodcast.com/resources/ Keywords: Taken Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joanne Mjadzelics: For 4years Joanne tried everything to have a very dangerous manipulative paedophile and his accomplices brought to justice and taken away from children and society, but this man was a celebrity, a rockstar, and every report and complaint she made to numerous members of the police in different UK police forces was brushed under the carpet and Joanne was falsey labelled insane and other derogatory things by these corrupt members of the police and their bosses. When the evil paedophile was finally arrested, it was for drug offences, following a tip off that he was importing drugs from the US, it was only on this drugs raid that the police found child pornography evidence that Joanne had been screaming to them about for years. The monster was finally caught, and a year later he was sentenced to 29years in prison and a further 6years on licence, and two women who Joanne had also kept on telling police about who abused their own babies with him were sentenced to 14years and 17years... But the ordeal did not end there...The police kept on thanking Joanne, right until she spoke to the media and exposed their horrendous failings to protect very young children, then they were embarrassed and had to shut her up, they arrested and charged her over the same images that she had tried on numerous occasions to get the police to take from her and investigate, when the images were sent from Watkins to her phone, she went straight to the top and contacted the chiefs of police, begging for their help to catch this predator, telling them that she had to agree to disgusting things to get him to trust her so she could trap him. They used evidence that she had given them herself against her, they also used falsified evidence against her, transcripts that had been written by Watkins and purposely left on his computer with Joanne's name attached, when everything else had been wiped, he left incriminating "evidence" he had planted ready for the day he would be finally arrested. AOL head office were contacted by police to trace chat accounts that were also wrongly used against her, AOL confirmed none traced back to Joanne, but they all traced back to Watkins. Joanne had been traumatised for years, forced to keep going back to play a sickening role to try and get enough for police to finally act on her tearful pleas for help to stop him, yet in court they abused their power and turned everything she had done and sacrificed against her, they edited a sex tape so it looked as though she was instigating things and showed the edited version in court, this sex tape and what Watkins had her say in it was one of the reasons Joanne first reported the charming man she once loved to police, but they traumatised her even more by publicly showing the edited shocking sex tape in court, to Joanne it was like publicly shaming a rape victim, because she was a victim of Watkins too, she isn't a child but she was the only person to do something about him and sacrifice herself to do it. Joanne was rightly acquitted of all charges against her in court and spoke out very publicly about the malicious prosecution against her. She was digging up too much dirt, and fully believes that high ranking members of the police and society are involved in the paedophile circles Watkins was involved with...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-opperman-report--1198501/support.
Only 3% of Americans have saved $1 million for retirement. according to 24/7 Wall St. & AOL. I'll break down what that means—and why your personal number might be more important than any national average. After that, I answer a listener question where we tackle how to cover healthcare costs in early retirement—specifically for a 58-year-old retiree with a non-working spouse and three adult kids under 26 still on the family plan. We'll explore ACA strategies, income planning, and a clever way to help the kids get their own coverage at a big discount. Resource: AOL article by David Beren: A Look at U.S. Workers Who've Accumulated $1M in Retirement Funds Connect with Benjamin Brandt Get the Retire-Ready Toolkit: http://retirementstartstodayradio.com Subscribe to the newsletter: https://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletter Work with Benjamin: https://retirementstartstoday.com/start Get the book!Retirement Starts Today: Your Non-financial Guide to an Even Better Retirement Follow Retirement Starts Today inApple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Pocket Casts, Amazon Music, or iHeart
Back to the grind! Today we heard about an interesting offer proposed to running back Derrick Henry, from Adam Sandler?! There was a Bigfoot sighting in Michigan recently, which could be beneficial to local stoners. Rick is headed to visit his grandkids this weekend, but Patti demands he take care of something first. Starbucks is back in the news with another PR nightmare, and we hit the phones today to hear what your AOL screen name was from back in the 90s! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Off Topic, we're diving headfirst into the chaos of the internet and culture. Did you know AOL is still a thing in 2025? We didn't either—until a Bored Panda article reminded us.We also unpack why niche podcasts might be in their golden age, how neutral design is officially being labeled “sad beige energy,” and why Instagram is starting to feel like LinkedIn's quirky cousin. Plus, a possibly fake Facebook article makes its rounds, and Eric shares his Top 5 most underrated country artists of the moment, along with a fresh look at this week in Country Music Weekly.
Anna Addoms, Wicked MarvelousOur guest in this episode is Anna Addoms, the insightful founder of Wicked Marvelous. Anna champions making technology, especially AI, accessible and genuinely useful for small business owners, always with a focus on reducing overwhelm and fostering authentic connections. In our chat, Anna shares her practical wisdom on how entrepreneurs can harness AI as a powerful tool without losing the essential human touch that truly matters in building lasting relationships and a thriving business.Key points discussed include:* AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement: Use AI strategically for back-office tasks, but always keep humans at the forefront of client interactions.* Guard Human Connection Fiercely: Implement AI in customer service with extreme care, ensuring transparency and easy access to human support.* Navigate AI Ethically and Practically: Stay informed about AI's capabilities and risks, using it to add value while protecting your brand and IP.Listen to the podcast to find out more.Innovabiz Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Show Notes from this episode with Anna Addoms, Wicked MarvelousThe AI Revolution: Tool, Not TyrantIt feels like just yesterday we were marveling at the dawn of AI, this "cool, shiny object" everyone was buzzing about. Fast forward to today, and we're deep in the trenches, moving beyond the mere novelty and into the serious business of practical application. The initial excitement was palpable, but now, as Anna Addoms wisely pointed out in our recent chat, we're navigating the "nitty gritty" – figuring out what AI is actually doing, whether it's truly adding value, and how to use it safely and effectively without getting lost down a "rabbit hole."Anna Addoms, with her characteristic clarity, cuts right to the chase: AI is fundamentally a tool, a multi-tool even. Think of it like a powerful chainsaw in your shed. In the right hands, with the right understanding, it can make incredibly light work of massive tasks. But if you're not careful, or if you don't really know how to wield it, you're just inviting a mess or unnecessary complexity. Our biggest goal, as entrepreneurs, should be to use AI to enhance our lives and businesses, to make things easier, and crucially, to still allow us to do what we do best: cultivate genuine human connections.Where AI Shines (and Where It Doesn't)So, where does this powerful multi-tool truly shine? Anna suggests focusing its considerable might on back-office tasks – those internal operations that often consume valuable time and energy. Picture those complex spreadsheet formulas that make your head spin; AI can whip those up in a flash. Or consider the initial drafts of long-form content, giving you a solid starting point without the blank page paralysis. The key here is using AI to shoulder a significant portion of the "heavy lifting," freeing you up for more strategic and human-centric work.But let's not get carried away. As Anna firmly reminds us, not every "low-level task can be farmed out" to AI. There are times when trying to force AI into a situation actually creates more complication than it solves. If a simple spreadsheet can organize your contact information, why complicate it by feeding it into an AI that might struggle with context? The wisdom lies in recognizing when AI is a genuine accelerator and when it's just an unnecessary detour.The Human Touch: Why Relationships Still RuleHere's where Anna's human-centered philosophy truly comes to the fore: AI should never, ever, replace genuine human connection. We've all been there – stuck in a frustrating recursive loop with a chatbot, feeling like we're talking to a brick wall. That "bad brain experience" doesn't just annoy customers; it actively "burns relationships." Anna is adamant: if you're deploying AI for customer service, there must be an immediate, clear escalation process to a real human. Without that "I wanna talk to a real human right now" button, you're essentially signing a death warrant for customer loyalty.It's not just about functionality; it's about authenticity. Anna points out the "uncanny valley" experience when AI voice technology gets too close to human, yet remains subtly "off." This creates a deep cognitive dissonance, a feeling of "something is wrong." Her advice is crystal clear: be transparency. If it's a bot, call it a bot. Don't give it a human name or picture. This ethical stance ensures trust, preventing your customers from feeling misled or, worse, "pissed off" because they couldn't escape an automated interaction.Building Your AI-Powered Personal Brand (Ethically!)Now, on a brighter note, AI can be an absolute boon for crafting and refining your personal brand's messaging. Anna herself has trained her AI to sound "exactly like me" for various content outputs – emails, sales pages, blog posts. This means she can generate initial drafts that are remarkably consistent with her unique voice and cadence. The magic, however, lies in the subsequent step: the human touch, the final edit. Anna emphasizes that she's always the "last person to see it," ensuring her "seal of approval" is on every piece of content that goes out. This blend of AI efficiency and human oversight is powerful.However, a crucial word of caution, something Anna highlighted with a stark anecdote: be incredibly mindful of data privacy and copyright when using AI tools. She shared a sobering example of authors inadvertently signing away their book copyrights by inputing their manuscripts into certain AI language models under their terms of service. It's like accidentally giving away your precious intellectual property to the public domain! Always, always read the fine print. Your content is your gold, so guard it fiercely.Mastering Your Workflow: AI as Your SOP SidekickLet's talk about a task many entrepreneurs dread: creating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). We know we need them, especially when scaling and hiring, but the thought of documenting every little step can feel overwhelming. This is where AI truly shines as an unsung hero. As Anna explains, many new hires struggle not because they're incompetent, but because they lack clear, documented processes. You hand over a task, and then find yourself frustrated when it's not done exactly as you envisioned.Anna's practical solution? Leverage AI! She encourages entrepreneurs to use prompts that guide them step-by-step through the SOP creation process. Even better, you can feed it enough information, and it can draft the entire thing for you. This isn't about abdicating responsibility; it's about leveraging AI's ability to structure information logically, ensuring "everything starts coming back faster and exactly the way they want." It's also fantastic for critiquing existing SOPs, pointing out gaps or areas for improvement that your brain, so familiar with the process, might simply overlook.The Calendar Conundrum: Owning Your Time with (or Without) AIThe digital calendar, while a godsend for organization, can also be a silent saboteur of your precious time if not managed with an iron fist. Anna and I both share a strong sentiment about this: you must maintain boundaries around your calendar and your time. While AI scheduling tools offer undeniable convenience, there's a real danger of "abdicating ownership" of your most valuable asset. Suddenly, your days are a chaotic collage of back-to-back meetings with no breathing room, leading straight to burnout.Anna's advice echoes a hard-won truth: your time, your rules. Instead of giving people 24/7 access to your schedule, block out specific times for different types of meetings or, even better, for uninterrupted deep work. This isn't about being unapproachable; it's about being strategic and protecting your mental and physical well-being. Whether you use AI for scheduling or not, the principle remains: actively manage your calendar, don't let it manage you.Staying Savvy: Protecting Your Digital SelfIn this "wild west" of AI, staying vigilant about your digital footprint is paramount. Anna recommends a simple yet powerful defense: set up Google Alerts for your name and business. It sounds old school, but it's incredibly effective for catching any unauthorized use of your likeness or content. Knowing what's being published about you, or as you, is the first line of defense. It allows you to be proactive, as Anna herself experienced when a podcast interview went live earlier than planned.Beyond monitoring, be aware of the bigger picture. While malicious voice cloning of individuals like us isn't the prevalent issue yet (it's mostly targeting celebrities), the technology exists. The reality is, some risk is inherent when putting content on public platforms. However, understanding your rights – the ability to issue cease and desist orders and report malicious content – empowers you to act swiftly if your digital identity is ever compromised. In this evolving landscape, awareness is truly your strongest shield.Summary:Anna Addoms provided incredible insights into navigating the brave new world of AI. Her core message is simple yet profound: AI is a powerful tool, but it should always serve to enhance human connection, never replace it. She emphasized the critical need for transparency, especially when AI is client-facing, and highlighted the importance of guarding your intellectual property. Ultimately, AI offers immense potential for efficiency and automation in our businesses, but its successful implementation hinges on a clear, human-centered strategy.Reach OutYou can reach out and thank Anna by visiting her website.Links:* Website – Wicked Marvelous* Twitter – @WickedMarvelous* Linkedin* Facebook* Instagram - @wicked_marvelousCool Things About Anna* Anna grew up in Colorado in a family of entrepreneurs, right in the thick of the tech boom. She was raised around innovation and search engines, with her dad running AOL's biggest competitor during the first dot-com bubble. That's a childhood spent at the intersection of curiosity and code.* She's a creative at heart: Anna went to art school and holds a degree in English Literature. Her journey from art and literature to Silicon Valley tech startups is a delightful zigzag, not a straight line. She's proof that you can be both a techie and a creative soul.* Anna has a knack for reinvention. After burning out in the high-octane world of Silicon Valley startups (like clockwork, every 18 months!), she realized her true passion was helping others build and implement their own dreams. She's now been running her own company for over a decade, thriving on variety and new challenges.* She's a self-confessed “sponge of knowledge,” always learning, always curious. Anna's love of learning has led her down unexpected paths—from luxury travel to ad agencies to med-tech startups. She's not afraid to pivot, experiment, or start over if it means staying true to her values.Imagine being a part of a select community where you not only have access to our amazing podcast guests, but you also get a chance to transform your marketing and podcast into a growth engine with a human-centered, relationship-focused approach.That's exactly what you'll get when you join the Flywheel Nation Community.Tap into the collective wisdom of high-impact achievers, gain exclusive access to resources, and expand your network in our vibrant community.Experience accelerated growth, breakthrough insights, and powerful connections to elevate your business.ACT NOW – secure your spot and transform your journey today! Visit innovabiz.co/flywheel and get ready to experience the power of transformation.VideoThanks for reading Innovabiz Substack! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. 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Panelists: Paul Hagstrom (hosting), Quinn Dunki, and Blake Patterson Topic: 1985 The year of the Amiga arrives, NeXT is founded, the first .com site appears, Quantum Computer Services begins its journey toward becoming AOL. Topic/Feedback links: Retro Computing News: Vintage Computer(-related) commercials: Retro Computing Gift Idea: Auction Picks: Closing notes: Other ways to experience this … Continue reading RCR Episode 285: You'll Have Mail →
Sandy Purdon, Executive Producer and Founder of the Port of San Diego's Big Bay Boom fireworks show, talks about the $100 million impact the show has to the local economy, in addition to the more than $1.4 million it has raised for the Armed Services YMCA San Diego. Purdon discusses how to best view the nation's 3rd Best Fireworks Show according to AOL.About Spotlight and Cloudcast Media "Spotlight On The Community" is the longest running community podcast in the country, continuously hosted by Drew Schlosberg for 19 years. "Spotlight" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local. For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting. About Mission Fed Credit Union A community champion for over 60 years, Mission Fed Credit Union with over $6 billion in member assets, is the Sponsor of Spotlight On The Community, helping to curate connectivity, collaboration, and catalytic conversations. For more information on the many services for San Diego residents, be sure to visit them at https://www.missionfed.com/
World leaders from Ukraine to Germany, the UK, France, and the U.S., are being caught with drugs of one sort or another. From cocaine to the recent report that Elon Musk, though he denies it, was nearly overdosing on ketamine, adderall, ecstasy and psychedelics during the campaign trail and after. The same has been reported of the WEF at Davos, people obsessed with magic mushrooms and hookers. Beyond the obvious motif of wealthy people splurging on carnal delights, there may be something darker at work, especially when considering that for years there has been speculation that the UN's own Meditation Room was actually a space for channeling sessions with spirits. The lore of Vril, dating to before WWII, involves a psychic energy used by an alien race - in occult lore the Vril were a society contacting aliens and spirits to obtain assistance in technological development. The term was originally coined by Edward Bulwer-Lytton in his 1871 novel ‘The Coming Race'. The techno-term “algorithm,” based on Persian mathematics, is itself connected to the Demon Star ALGOL, also known as a Demon's Eye. This “eye” plays a significant role in both fiction and modern technology. Since 2025 began we have seen the full scale implementation of STARGATE, a program to develop gene-altering cancer shots (preceding the HHS-NIH announcement of universal flu and covid shots), and now recent contracts signed by PALANTIR by the Trump administration to create an all-knowing database of information on more than just American citizens. Itself followed up by a $795-million contract between the DOD and Palantir. STARGATE involves, of peculiar interest, OpenAI (to open an eye), Oracle (a prophet who can see beyond time), and Nvidia (the evil eye). The first company is run by Sam Altman, whose name means in Hebrew “name of the old God,” and Samael (the Talmudic archangel of seduction, accusation, and destruction) ‘altering-man'; whose recent announcement involves a device called ORB that verifies humans via iris scans and then gives them a WORLD ID / DIGITAL PASSPORT, WORLDCOIN GLOBAL CURRENCY, and UBI or Universal Basic Income; the scan verifies human-carbon, i.e., 666. The second company is run by Larry Ellison, whose name means in Hebrew “light of my God Yahweh,” or “victory of the son of Elohim.” The third company is named after the seven deadly sins and the poison of the evil eye. PALANTIR was officially established by a guy “obsessed with warding of death... with a young person's blood,” Peter Thiel, whose name means “stone of the valley/below/abyss.” Alongside these technocrats are Yuval Harari, whose name means in Hebrew “streaming from the mountain,” and Elon Musk, whose X-AI, GROK, is named after a fictional martian language that means to “understand deeply,” from Robert Heinlein's ‘Stranger in a Strange Land'; its logo is the planet Saturn, god of time. Elon is also the name of a technologically advanced alien leader on the martian planet in the book ‘Mars: A Technical Tale', written by NASA father Wernher Von Braun. PALANTIR itself is named after palantír from Lord of the Rings (Saturn), a seeing-stone-crystal sphere used for communication and intelligence gathering. It is also where the Eye of Sauron was able to keep his eye on Middle Earth. Thiel is also co-founder of Rivendell 7 and Mithril Capital, both named after LOTR, the latter of which is a mythical elvish city. This is the same Thiel who fueled the rise of JD Vance into the White House, the now VP to POTUS Trump who just signed a deal with PALANTIR and who is assisting in pushing Musk's electric cars. Altman, Ellison, Harari, even Elon Musk “aspirationally,” are Jewish, with questions about Thiel's actual background speculated upon. The same is true for Larry Fink of BLACKROCK, Stephen Schwarzman of BLACKSTONE, Dan Zorella and Avi Yanus of BLACK CUBE, and even the general BLACKBOX AI that nobody seems able to comprehend even if they helped build it - Ellison says it is mostly coming from Israel and Tel Aviv. This is the same black cube that Jews wear and Muslims walk around, with black stone, in their holy city. PALANTIR'S history is peculiar too, not just its name. Peter Thiel started the company officially soon after 911 by using PayPal security algorithms. It was founded in May 2003, the same month and year that the US Information Awareness Office and DARPA renamed their Total Information Awareness program to Terrorism Information Awareness, and a few months before in September Congress pulled funding. The blueprint for this post-911 world, PNAC, was written by William Kristol and Robert Kagan, and the Patriot Act was co-authored by Michael Chertoff, former homeland security head, who helped sell body scanners to airports. All three of these men are jewish. As for PALANTIR, besides Thiel, Alex Karp and Stephen Cohen are major jewish founders alongside Joe Lonsdale and Nathan Gettings, the former of which had one of the least official roles. According to the Electronic Privacy Information Center writing about TIA: “Congress eliminated funding for the controversial project and closed the Pentagon's Information Awareness Office, which had developed TIA. This does not, however, necessarily signal the end of other government data-mining initiatives that are similar to TIA.”What was a DARPA-CIA-NSA-USIAO plan to “track individuals through collecting as much information about them as possible and using computer algorithms and human analysis to detect potential activity,” suddenly became PALANTIR unofficially, even though both the NSA and PALANTIR both ran a PRISM program - a program we learned about from Edward Snowden in June 2013, just 3 months before Katy Perry released her first “dark” album called PRISM. The goal of PRISM was to retrieve data directly from Microsoft, Yahoo, Google, Facebook, PalTalk, AOL, Skype, YouTube, and Apple. And what is a prism but a three-dimensional solid shape; a polyhedron like a cube; a glass device that breaks down white light.Beyond data acquisition, the goal was techno-super-natural: “understand and even preempt' future action,” wrote the New York Times. The NYT reported that conveniently PALANTIR “secured an estimated $2 million from In-Q-Tel, a venture-capital firm that finances the development of technologies that can help the C.I.A.” That's the same In-Q-Tel where, at one of their conferences, David Petraeus, former CIA director, said that the Internet of PCs and Things “are learning to perceive - to actually sense and respond.” Soon after we saw the emergence of Q-Anon, a Self Organizing Collective Intelligence, which today with AI-models trained on human data, are convincing people they are unlocking the secrets and conspiracies of the universe and becoming prophets. As per a recent Rolling Stone article, “Self-styled prophets are claiming they have 'awakened' chatbots and accessed the secrets of the universe through ChatGPT.”FREE ARCHIVE (w. ads)SUBSCRIPTION ARCHIVEX / TWITTER FACEBOOKYOUTUBEMAIN WEBSITECashApp: $rdgable Paypal email rdgable1991@gmail.comEMAIL: rdgable@yahoo.com / TSTRadio@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-secret-teachings--5328407/support.
Welcome to episode #985 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Kathleen deLaski is one of the most important voices rethinking the purpose, structure, and future of higher education. As founder of the Education Design Lab and board chair of Credential Engine, she's spent the last decade helping over 1,200 colleges, organizations, and regional economies reimagine learning pathways for next-generation students - particularly the new majority learners often left behind by traditional institutions. Her new book, Who Needs College Anymore? is a provocative and optimistic look at how postsecondary education must evolve, drawing on over a decade of field research, human-centered design, and more than 150 interviews with educators, employers, learners, and policymakers. In this conversation, we unpack the diploma divide, the rising cost of education, the friction between what college teaches and what employers expect, and how AI is rewriting the script for entry-level jobs and professional training. Kathleen - whose career spans time as a journalist at ABC News, a Pentagon spokesperson, working at AOL in the early days of the Internet, and a philanthropic force behind education reform - brings not just perspective but practical ideas on how colleges, businesses, and society must adapt. This one challenges what we think college is for, and what meaningful learning might look like in a skills-based future. Enjoy the conversation… Running time: 51:11. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Listen and subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Listen and subscribe over at Spotify. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on X. Here is my conversation with Kathleen deLaski. Who Needs College Anymore?. Education Design Lab. Follow Kathleen on LinkedIn. Chapters: (00:00) - The Rise of Human-Centered Design in Education. (02:45) - Challenges in Higher Education and the Need for Innovation. (06:00) - Cultural Shifts and the Value of College. (08:53) - The Diploma Divide and Its Societal Implications. (11:54) - Affordability and Access to Education. (14:47) - The Disconnect Between Degrees and Job Market. (18:06) - The Importance of Experience Over Degrees. (21:13) - Networking and Its Role in Career Success. (29:38) - The Impact of AI on Job Markets. (32:36) - The Future of Entry-Level Jobs. (36:05) - Reevaluating Professional Education. (41:35) - The Value of Trades in Modern Society. (43:06) - Digital Learning and Its Challenges. (47:17) - Generational Perspectives on Work Ethic.
In this episode, I ache along with millions of peace-loving Jews and non-Jews around the globe who read of the murders in cold blood of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim on Wednesday evening in DC. How shall we respond? What do you want to happen? Write me here or on bobmendo@aol.com or on FB or insta or wherever you are listening to the podcast. Historical marker of the week includes Nazi leader Heinrich Himmler, the creation of bifocals by Benjamin Franklin and a black American Civil War hero named Sergeant William Carney.Support the showThanks for listening. Please share the pod with your mates, and feel free to comment right here! Write to Bob on his email -- bobmendo@AOL.comLink to https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078996765315 on Facebook. Bobs Your Uncle features the opinions of Bob Mendelsohn and any of his guests.To financially support the podcast, go to the Patreon site and choose Gold, Silver or Bronze levels. Thanks for that! https://www.patreon.com/BobsYourUncle To read Bob's 1999 autobiography, click this link https://bit.ly/StoryBob To see photos of any of Bob's guests, they are all on an album on his Flickr site click here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/bobmendo/albums/72177720296857670
Eric Newman speaks with journalist and author Vauhini Vara about her new book Searches: Selfhood in the Digital Age. The book hybrid blend of memoir and modern tech history explore how the internet, AI, and the corporate tech giants behind them have shaped the way we see ourselves and connect with others. Through Vara's personal anecdotes and digital history deep dives—including a nostalgic look at AOL chat rooms, a rundown of her Google search history and prolific Amazon product reviews, and her reporting on the rise of AI and how an early version of ChatGPT helped her write an essay about her sister's death—Searches shows how our search for meaning and identity online defines life in the digital age in ways both fascinating and concerning.
Eric Newman speaks with journalist and author Vauhini Vara about her new book “Searches: Selfhood in the Digital Age.” The book hybrid blend of memoir and modern tech history explore how the internet, AI, and the corporate tech giants behind them have shaped the way we see ourselves and connect with others. Through Vara's personal anecdotes and digital history deep dives—including a nostalgic look at AOL chat rooms, a rundown of her Google search history and prolific Amazon product reviews, and her reporting on the rise of AI and how an early version of ChatGPT helped her write an essay about her sister's death—“Searches” shows how our search for meaning and identity online defines life in the digital age in ways both fascinating and concerning.
Check out my newsletter at TKOPOD.com and join my new community at TKOwners.com.I sat down with Brandon Doyle (x.com/_BrandonDoyle_) again, he was on back in episode #060, and we brainstormed creative ways to grow small service businesses. We bounced around a bunch of low-cost, scrappy business ideas. Some of them sound kinda out there at first, but they've got real-world results behind them and they're super easy to test. If you're trying to get more customers without spending a ton, this one's worth a listen.Timestamps below. Enjoy!---Watch this on YouTube instead here: tkopod.co/p-ytAsk me a question on or off the show here: http://tkopod.co/p-askLearn more about me: http://tkopod.co/p-cjkLearn about my company: http://tkopod.co/p-cofFollow me on Twitter here: http://tkopod.co/p-xFree weekly business ideas newsletter: http://tkopod.co/p-nlShare this podcast: http://tkopod.co/p-allScrape small business data: http://tkopod.co/p-os---00:00 Introduction to Growth Hacks for Small Businesses01:00 Innovative Marketing Strategies: QR Codes and Yard Signs02:57 Leveraging Local Networks: Neighbor Blitz and Referral Incentives06:50 Creative Partnerships: Collaborating for Mutual Growth11:02 Utilizing AI for Business Growth: ChatGPT Insights13:54 AOL's Viral Marketing Strategy: Lessons for Today26:55 Conclusion and Future Insights
In this episode of HR Like a Boss, John talks with Sean Behr, CEO of Fountain, about the crucial role of frontline workers in business success. They explore how company culture, leadership, and tailored communication drive engagement, retention, and growth. Sean shares how HR can make a big impact by focusing on the unique needs of frontline employees and using technology to scale smarter.ABOUT SEAN BEHRSean Behr is the CEO at Fountain, the frontline workforce management platform that empowers companies to hire, manage, and retain their frontline workforce across the globe. Previously, Behr was the Co-Founder and CEO of STRATIM. Behr previously served in leadership roles at Adap.tv (acquired by AOL), most recently, as SVP, Global operations. Before Adap.tv, he held various management roles at Shopping.com (acquired by Ebay) including roles in HR, sales, product management and strategy development. Additionally, Behr advises, mentors, and invests in entrepreneurs and early-stage companies. He holds a B.A. in History and Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Today's episode pivots into real estate investing. Joining Dan is two experts of hospitality financing and investments, Nate Edgerly and Tom Donaldson, the CEO and Chairman of Enzo Group Inc. The discussion goes into the motivations behind investing in hospitality, the critical role of strong management teams, and the unique challenges and opportunities in scaling restaurant businesses. They explore the financial metrics used to evaluate investments, the impact of macroeconomic factors on the industry, and the potential for growth in fast-casual dining. This conversation provides valuable insights for investors, restaurateurs, and industry professionals looking to understand the complexities of hospitality investments.Takeaways: When considering an investment or running a restaurant, focus on delivering a strong perceived value to customers. Make sure the food quality, service, and overall experience justify the price they pay.Before expanding, ensure you have replicable systems and processes in place. Detailed documentation and standard operating procedures can help new locations maintain consistency and operational efficiency.Keep an eye on essential financial metrics. Aim for high unit volumes and substantial store-level EBITDA margins, while managing build-out costs effectively.Recognize the critical role of a general manager in each unit. Investing in their development can create a significant positive impact on operational performance. Make the GM role a career-worthy position.Weigh the risks and benefits of lease commitments. Striking the right balance between prime locations and manageable lease liability can be crucial for long-term sustainability.Stay informed about macroeconomic trends and consumer behavior, as these can significantly impact the restaurant industry. Adjust strategies accordingly to maintain a competitive edge.Quote of the Show:“What I love most about hospitality is the human connection.” - Nate EdgerlyLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-donaldson-8468a54/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-edgerly-00084b3/ Website: https://enzogroup.com/ Shout Outs:15:53 - Outback Steakhouse https://www.outback.com/ 17:10 - Taco Bamba https://www.tacobamba.com/ 29:25 - Bojangles https://www.bojangles.com/ 43:24 - Setting the Table https://www.amazon.com/Setting-Table-Transforming-Hospitality-Business/dp/0060742763 46:03 - Carbone https://carboneofficial.com/ 47:01 - Sweetgreen https://www.sweetgreen.com/ 47:35 - Chopt Creative Salad https://www.choptsalad.com/ 48:11 - Chipotle https://www.chipotle.com/ 48:13 - Panera https://www.panerabread.com/en-us/home.html 50:15 - Investors Business Daily https://www.investors.com/ 50:17 - Wall Street Journal https://www.wsj.com/ 50:32 - Tiffany's https://www.tiffany.com/ 50:49 - Kohl's https://www.kohls.com/ 50:52 - Walmart https://www.walmart.com/ 51:01 - Apple https://www.apple.com/ 51:50 - Pret a Manger https://www.pret.com/en-US 55:07 - AOL https://www.aol.com/ 57:29 - Chick-fil-A https://www.chick-fil-a.com/ 58:09 - Subway https://www.subway.com/en-us/ 58:10 - Dunkin Donuts https://www.dunkindonuts.com/en 59:03 - McDonald's https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us.html 59:04 - Wendy's https://www.wendys.com/
Kal Amin is the President at 1848 Ventures, bringing 25 years of experience from companies like Google, Spotify, and Flipboard. In this conversation we explored how venture studios are evolving with AI, focusing on key topics like building defensible AI companies, the upcoming transfer of SMB ownership to a new generation, and how technology is changing the landscape for small business owners.EPISODE LINKS:• 1848 Ventures: https://1848ventures.comTIMESTAMPS:(00:00) Intro(02:00) What is an SMB? The $33M opportunity(04:15) Why hasn't this been done before?(07:23) How 1848 Ventures builds companies(11:45) The venture studio advantage(15:30) The great SMB transfer(19:40) Building defensible AI companies(23:15) Data as the new moat(25:00) Kal's journey (AOL, Google, Spotify)(31:45) What makes a great founder in 2024?(36:20) Why building products isn't enough(38:30) Finding and developing startup leadersCONNECT:• Website: https://hoo.be/elijahmurray• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@elijahmurray• Twitter: https://twitter.com/elijahmurray• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elijahmurray• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijahmurray/• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-long-game-w-elijah-murray/• Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elijahmurray• RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/3e31c0c/podcast/rss
AI is no longer just a tool—it's reshaping business strategy, workforce morale, and even personal productivity. But are executives truly prepared to treat AI as a strategic thought partner, or are they still viewing it as just another tech trend? Joining us today is Greg Shove, CEO of Section, an AI education company on a mission to train the next generation of AI leaders. Greg has helped enterprises like Apple and AOL adopt AI beyond automation—leveraging it as a strategic driver of innovation, leadership, and competitive advantage. With a goal of educating 100,000 students in AI by 2025, Greg is here to share his insights on AI strategy, workforce impact, and what businesses of all sizes need to know about integrating AI effectively. Greg Shove is the CEO of Section. Prior to Section, Greg founded five companies resulting in three exits (two of which were over $100M—2Market to AOL, SocialChorus to Sumeru Equity Partners). He is a hybrid Canadian (believes in a level playing field), British (does not quit), and American (dreams of something better). He is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario and Stanford Graduate School of Business. RESOURCESIf you haven't started using AI, or you've used it but haven't gotten real value, I'd like to invite you to join our upcoming course, 1 Hour to AI Proficiency, for free. You'll learn to write effective prompts and identify some killer AI use cases -- join at https://www.sectionschool.com/free-workshopCatch the future of e-commerce at eTail Boston, August 11-14, 2025. Register now: https://bit.ly/etailboston and use code PARTNER20 for 20% off for retailers and brandsConnect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnowThe 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
Jamie Mottram is the President of BreakingT, a real-time licensed sports apparel brand redefining speed and relevance in a saturated sports merchandise market. With deep roots in digital sports media, Jamie brings over two decades of experience from leadership roles at Yahoo, AOL, and Gannett, where he built fan-first platforms like For The Win and helped generate hundreds of millions of monthly views.Leveraging his expertise in content, audience engagement, and digital commerce, Jamie helped scale BreakingT from a side project to an 8-figure business by turning trending sports moments into must-own fan gear, often within hours of a game-changing play.Guided by the belief that fan excitement is the most powerful demand signal, Jamie has led BreakingT through rapid growth by building a responsive supply chain, refining its segmentation and outreach engine, and expanding across DTC, wholesale, and Amazon.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:43] Intro[01:00] Creating products from real-time trends[01:26] Applying media skills to Ecommerce growth[02:33] Focusing on traction over profitability[02:57] Spotting viral moments fans want to wear[05:29] Launching with digital mockups to test demand[07:21] Fulfilling retail orders faster with screen print[08:49] Combining paid, organic, and affiliate for scale[12:12] Sponsors: Electric Eye, Social Snowball, Portless & Reach[17:17] Balancing speed between Ecommerce and wholesale[20:30] Pushing retail to move faster than seasonal cycles[21:22] Navigating approvals in licensed product drops[23:05] Realizing Amazon serves a different customer[23:56] Balancing marketplace growth with brand control[26:08] Choosing platforms based on product urgency[28:16] Turning social signals into merch decisionsResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeReal-time licensed sports fan gear, apparel, and t-shirts breakingt.com/Follow Jamie Mottram linkedin.com/in/jamiemottramSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectDrive revenue through affiliates & referrals socialsnowball.io/honestRevolutionize your inventory and fulfillment process portless.com/Level up your global sales withreach.com/honest. If you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!
SPONSORS: -Sign up for your $1 per month trial and start selling today at https://shopify.com/date On this episode of First Date with Lauren Compton, Lauren makes her triumphant return to the show after having her first child and joining her is comedian and future step-mom Katherine Blanford! The two dive into short-term relationships, finding "the one", dudes who like to out-funny you, and how the real key to a girl's heart is a hot tub. They also get into sibling shenanigans, adjusting your entire life to fit a little buddy, icks, AOL chatrooms, pushing your kids into violent hobbies, and so much more! First Date Ep. 97 https://www.tiktok.com/@iamlaurencompton https://store.ymhstudios.com Chapters 00:00:00 - Intro 00:03:44 - Hot Tubs, Short Relationships, & Secret Getaways 00:11:14 - Finding "The One" 00:18:55 - Funny Dudes & AOL Chatrooms 00:25:37 - Adjusting To Life With A Child 00:32:08 - Pushing Your Kids Into Things 00:36:57 - Siblings, Childhood Shenanigans, & Horse 00:46:04 - Dessert 00:48:27 - Two Month Ick Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices