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American Conservative University
2026 Tax Revolt: Millions Refusing to Pay Government Taxes – Here's Why

American Conservative University

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2026 34:12


2026 Tax Revolt: Millions Refusing to Pay Government Taxes – Here's Why  The Growing Tax Strike Nobody Wants To Talk About. America's Breaking Point? Americans are fed up. High taxes. Higher prices. Endless wars. Government waste. And now something new is bubbling beneath the surface: not protest, not riots… resignation. People quietly opting out. Some are talking about a “tax strike.” Is this dangerous? Is it justified? Does it unite the country… or blow it apart? Let's talk about it honestly. This isn't left or right. This is ordinary Americans reaching a breaking point. Stay Dangerous. Watch this video at- https://youtu.be/Qi8ipxFvB68?si=7F1mqyPmUAT-H_TA Tim Black TV 210K subscribers 8,019 views Jan 2, 2026 The Most Dangerous Night Show in America | Tim Black Live #TaxStrike #Tax #incomeinequality 00:00 — People Are Reaching Their Breaking Point 00:18 — Protest vs Resignation: A More Dangerous Shift 00:36 — “I'm Done Paying Taxes” Sentiment Grows 01:00 — 30 Years Working… And Nothing To Show For It 01:17 — Why A Tax Strike Terrifies Government 01:40 — We're Taxed Everywhere…On Everything 02:00 — People Feel Cheated By The System 02:09 — Tax Strike 2026 Calls Begin 02:23 — Could This Unite America? 02:41 — Wasteful Spending And Corruption Anger Americans 03:02 — Minnesota COVID Fraud Example 03:44 — When People Stop Believing In The System 04:05 — Major Voices Now Calling For A Tax Strike 04:10 — The Big Question… Then What? 04:14 — What Happens If People Quietly Opt Out? 04:30 — Power Only Exists If People Obey 04:44 — Reform Or Retaliation? 04:59 — “This Is What It Feels Like To Be A Slave” Anger And Pain 05:49 — Taxation Without Representation 06:06 — Does This Unite Or Divide America? 06:16 — Nobody Knows How This Ends 06:18 — Higher Taxes, Worse Services, Growing Anger 06:27 — Americans Are Waking Up Together 06:47 — This is Becoming A Movement 07:10 — Income Inequality + Oligarch Tax Structure 07:45 — Trump: “We May Eliminate Income Tax” 08:08 — America May Finally Be United… Against This 08:22 — Trust In Media Is Gone… And So Is Trust In Government Spending 09:05 — Americans Are Tired Of Being Scammed 09:34 — Can We Finally Come Together As A Country? 09:59 — Forget Parties… Do You Care About America Or Not? 10:23 — It Doesn't Matter Who You Are… Everyone Feels This 10:40 — The Country May Have Accidentally United Itself 10:48 — Was All The Distraction On Purpose? 11:18 — Watch The Most Dangerous Show In America "I'm not a news channel. I'm a commentator. - Tim Black"

X22 Report
[DS] Feeling The Pain,[DS]/D's Are Moving From Information War To Physical War,Buckle Up – Ep. 3813

X22 Report

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2026 76:40


Watch The X22 Report On Video No videos found (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:17532056201798502,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-9437-3289"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");pt> Click On Picture To See Larger PictureTrump’s tariff system is putting a lot of strain on the Eurozone, they were hurting from the green new scam, but now it’s all falling apart. New supply of oil is coming into the US, prices are going to drop. Trump is shutting down the [CB] plan down, no institutional investors in real estate, prices are about to come way down. Newsom wants to confiscate Bitcoin. The [DS] is feeling pain, their drug, human and oil trafficking system is being dismantled. The [DS] have lost the information war, common sense has now taken over. The [DS] will now being moving to physical war. This is the trap Trump has set to use the Insurrection Act. Slowly but surely the [DS] will become more violent and Trump and team will have to call the ball. Buckle up, the storm is approaching. Economy Trump’s Tariffs Are Sinking The Eurozone  German trade surpluses are shrinking, with 2025 exports to the US projected down 7% and overall trade surplus far below 2024 levels. Structural challenges—especially Chinese competition in automotive—compound short-term pressures, threatening Germany’s role as Eurozone anchor. A German recession risks Eurozone-wide contagion, potential ECB stimulus, and euro depreciation, clouding the outlook for 2026. Since tariffs stepped in, the Eurozone has struggled with exports and hasn’t even retaliated to them. A passive approach that shows off all its weaknesses and, above all, is sinking the economy of its major member: Germany. Germany was already stuck with a negative GDP growth before tariffs, but the latter are acting as a final blow for the third economy in the world. A couple of weeks ago I pointed out the main risks that concern Japan (the fourth economy in the world); now it is time to assess the shape of the German economy. How tariffs are hitting Germany Germany's total exports in 2024 amounted to $1.63 trillion, and 11% of these goods were exported to the US, the main trading partner. Just this data says a lot; in fact, Germany used to rely on the US to generate billions and billions of trade surpluses. A sort of Chinese approach, but at a lower scale. Now, almost every European good exported to the US is subject to a 15% tariff, which is making German goods less convenient for US companies. We know that the latter pay most of the tariffs, and this means bearing higher costs of goods sold, therefore lower profits. Companies don't like to reduce their net profit margin, so it is not a surprise they are looking around to find new trading partners. On top of this significant issue, the currency fluctuations are adding further pressure on German exports.. Source: seekingalpha.com  (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:18510697282300316,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-8599-9832"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs"); https://twitter.com/disclosetv/status/2008918914110021878?s=20   and brought directly to unloading docks in the United States. Thank you for your attention to this matter! DONALD J. TRUMP PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA https://twitter.com/DOGEai_tx/status/2008960798094188804?s=20 https://twitter.com/truflation/status/2008494612378501267?s=20   index, calculated from millions of price data points, has remained below 2% since Dec 30. https://twitter.com/Rasmussen_Poll/status/2008641445574615279?s=20 https://twitter.com/amuse/status/2008921005046350098?s=20   domestic production, tax relief & energy independence. America remained the strongest economy in the world as capital flowed toward US assets. https://twitter.com/amuse/status/2008694980944998633?s=20 Political/Rights  https://twitter.com/paulsperry_/status/2008707706052632955?s=20 Democrat Charlotte Sheriff Now Under Investigation for “Mafia-style” Intimidation and Corruption   District Attorney Spencer Merriweather has formally requested the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) to probe allegations of attempted extortion and corruption against Democrat Sheriff Garry McFadden. The petition outlines explosive allegations regarding Sheriff McFadden's conduct over House Bill 10, a controversial state law mandating cooperation between local sheriffs and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Rep. Cunningham, a fellow Democrat who provided a critical vote to override the Governor's veto of the bill, alleges McFadden threatened her safety to influence her vote. According to the petition, McFadden told Cunningham that if she continued to support the bill, the “people of Mecklenburg County would ‘come after' her.” The filing claims McFadden added, “I don't want to see you get hurt. You live in my county.” Cunningham described the interaction as “akin to a mafia boss demanding money by saying ‘nice little store you've got there; it would be a shame if anything happened to it.’”   District Attorney Merriweather confirmed he has asked the SBI's Professional Standards Unit to investigate the claims before his office decides whether to proceed with the removal petition. The DA's letter to the SBI specifically requests an investigation into: Extortion and bribery. Economic threats made to influence legislation. Hatch Act violations (regarding improper political activity). State campaign finance violations. Source: thegatewaypundit.com Breaking: Tensions Reach Boiling Point in Minneapolis As Woman Attacks ICE With Vehicle, Is Neutralized  https://twitter.com/nicksortor/status/2008962609769533872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2008962609769533872%7Ctwgr%5Ea8d4c3aaf88bd8bfc614f35ff01e9af383546251%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fredstate.com%2Fbobhoge%2F2026%2F01%2F07%2Fbreaking-tensions-reach-boiling-point-in-minneapolis-as-woman-attacks-ice-with-vehicle-is-neutralized-n2197863https://twitter.com/nicksortor/status/2008973759097733306?s=20 https://twitter.com/TriciaOhio/status/2008957179793998266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2008957179793998266%7Ctwgr%5Ea8d4c3aaf88bd8bfc614f35ff01e9af383546251%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fredstate.com%2Fbobhoge%2F2026%2F01%2F07%2Fbreaking-tensions-reach-boiling-point-in-minneapolis-as-woman-attacks-ice-with-vehicle-is-neutralized-n2197863 https://twitter.com/EricLDaugh/status/2008958131502768415?s=20  Source: redstate.com Geopolitical https://twitter.com/WadeMiller/status/2008657547629392370?s=20 https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/2008906360537456723?s=20 https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/2008912529087779051?s=20 On December 20th, the US Coast Guard and Navy attempted to board a sanctioned oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela. The tanker escaped, headed for the north Atlantic, painted a Russian flag on its hull, and has been operating under a new name (Marinera). US military aircraft are tracking the tanker off the coast of Ireland and are said to be preparing to board it. And now,  a Russian sub is enroute to intercept it. https://twitter.com/ConflictDISP/status/2008882720408305975?s=20 https://twitter.com/Rightanglenews/status/2008892280867000469?s=20 https://twitter.com/visionergeo/status/2008887222787887241?s=20 https://twitter.com/disclosetv/status/2008953776976134460?s=20 https://twitter.com/TankerTrackers/status/2008926432026632522?s=20 https://twitter.com/amuse/status/2008937593702916205?s=20  Putin’s side against Trump. TDSx1000 https://twitter.com/PeteHegseth/status/2008900933242032586?s=20 https://twitter.com/drawandstrike/status/2008633796317372618?s=20   that asshole pretending to be it’s President. Neither is the gal currently pretending she’s President of Mexico. When you figure out what the transnational crime syndicate is, and the kind of shit it’s been up to for over 130 years, some of you are gonna be awfully surprised. But then a lot of stuff you’re presently confused about will make sense. Brilliant Restitution Plan – President Trump Announces Interim Venezuela Oil Payment of $2 Billion  This is way beyond winning, this is stunningly brilliant strategy.  Not only has President Trump successfully apprehended Venezuela dictator Nicolas Maduro, but the remaining interim government officials have acquiesced to fund a civil restitution plan to pay for their malfeasance. The government that stole from its people is being forced to pay restitution for their own fraud, abuse and misconduct. [SOURCE] The 30 to 50 million barrels of oil is approximately a $2 billion self-created reconstruction effort. Compare and contrast this approach with the trillions of U.S. taxpayer funds that were used in the failed efforts in Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, Syria, etcetera….  or even Kuwait, albeit the Kuwaiti's offered, but prior U.S. leadership chose influence over restitution. In this example, almost immediately the funds now in the control of President Trump can be deployed to the greater benefit of the Venezuelan people. Another way to look at this is like a type of ‘sovereign wealth fund' created by the corrupt Venezuelan officials, using the resources that belong to the Venezuelan people, to support the interim needs of the same citizens they victimized. Well done President Trump and Secretary Rubio! Source: theconservativetreehouse.com   The second phase will be a phase that we call recovery. And that is ensuring that American, western, and other companies have access to the Venezuelan market in a way that’s fair, also at the same time, begin to create the process of reconciliation nationally, within Venezuela, so that the opposition forces can be amnestied and released from prisons, and brought back to the country, and begin to rebuild civil society. And then the third phase, is of course will be one of transition. Some of this will overlap. I’ve described this to them (Venezuela) in great detail. We’ll have more detail in the days to follow. But we feel like we’re moving forward here in a very positive way. https://twitter.com/Matt_Bracken48/status/2008704247341183281?s=20   with a long-term secret IUD program, where Inuit women and young girls visiting Danish clinics for “health checks” were for unknowingly fitted with dangerous coil IUDs that were left in for years, leaving many sterile and in chronic lifelong pain. It was total “Dr. Mengele” stuff. The Inuit in Greenland are ripe for a better offer. And in any event, Denmark’s “claim” on Greenland is a total joke. Please read the whole Substack in the first reply. I’ll also do some more screen grabs in an X-thread to whet your appetite. War/Peace   me the Noble Peace Prize. But that doesn't matter! What does matter is that I saved Millions of Lives. RUSSIA AND CHINA HAVE ZERO FEAR OF NATO WITHOUT THE UNITED STATES, AND I DOUBT NATO WOULD BE THERE FOR US IF WE REALLY NEEDED THEM. EVERYONE IS LUCKY THAT I REBUILT OUR MILITARY IN MY FIRST TERM, AND CONTINUE TO DO SO. We will always be there for NATO, even if they won't be there for us. The only Nation that China and Russia fear and respect is the DJT REBUILT U.S.A. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!! President DJT Medical/False Flags The New Food Pyramid Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr has released a new food pyramid guide for Americans. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans released today meshes MAHA-influenced changes with longer-standing advice for people to cut sugar consumption while eating more protein, whole grains and colorful fresh vegetables and avoiding “highly processed” foods. Source: theconservativetreehouse.com [DS] Agenda https://twitter.com/WarClandestine/status/2008654733020717345?s=20 Medicaid Will ‘Claw Back’ Fraud Funds From Minnesota: Agency Head Minnesota will feel an “increasing vise grip of financial penalties” to help make up for taxpayer dollars lost to fraud, Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Service, said Jan. 6. His agency is auditing all 14 Medicaid programs that Minnesota flagged as vulnerable to fraud; that excludes 73 other Medicaid programs Minnesota runs. The agency also will “claw back that money” from current Medicaid payments that were to be made to Minnesota, Oz told Fox News. “This is a major problem for the state, because they've got to own the fact that they have been bilking the federal taxpayer [because of] their sloppy behavior for years,” Oz said. Oz said his agency has had difficulty tracking at least $500 million in Medicaid payments to Minnesota. Available data makes it hard to figure out how it was billed and “where it went,” he said.      Source: zerohedge.com President Trump's Plan https://twitter.com/JudgeJeanine/status/2008642273991393473?s=20  Today? Less than 10% not prosecuted.  This is what REAL enforcement looks like. Trump's federal surge is delivering results — law and order is being restored in DC. https://twitter.com/WallStreetApes/status/2008789449178579342?s=20  – Neville Roy Singham and his network – Hansjorg Wyss, a billionaire donor in Switzerland – Additional Foreign Cash – Reid Hoffman (Named by Trump) “It’s also big left-wing funders, some of them who are not citizens of this country, Mr. Hansjörg Wyss in Switzerland, they’re pouring money into this entire ecosystem.” “We have identified dozens of radical organizations, not just the decentralized Antifa organizations, but dozens of radical organizations that have received more than $100 million from the Riot Inc investors.” “I think the most shocking thing is that we have found that more than $100 million in US taxpayer funding has flowed into these funding networks” Trump Offers Blueprint on How Republicans Can Win the Midterms and Future Elections Trump said this to the GOP members: You gotta win the midterms. ‘Cause if we don’t win the midterms, it’s just gonna to be… I mean, they’ll find a reason to impeach me. I’ll get impeached. We don’t impeach them, you know why? Because they’re meaner than we are. We should have impeached Joe Biden for a hundred different things. Here is the second part They are mean and smart: but fortunately for you, they have horrible policy. They can be smart as can be, but when they want open borders, when they want, as I said, men in women’s sports, when they want “transgender for everyone!” Bring your kids in, we’re going to change the sex of your child. Just send them our way. […] We have great, common-sense policy. They have horrendous policy. What they do, is they stick together. They never have a no vote. Trump wasn’t whining that he is afraid of impeachment — he was spitting facts: if Democrats win, impeachment is inevitable; so, don’t let them win and show them this is how you do it. Trump made clear to Republicans that they must hammer home their common-sense, America-forward policies and contrast those against the truly terrible schemes of the Democrats. Trump said, “You can own health care. Figure it out. […]If you explain it: the money goes directly to the people, that’s going to be your issue.” Source: redstate.com (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:13499335648425062,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-7164-1323"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="//cdn2.customads.co/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");

The Daily Zeitgeist
Jealousy To Rule Venezuela? Thinnest Blood Ever! 01.06.26

The Daily Zeitgeist

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 58:57 Transcription Available


In episode 1984, Jack and Miles are joined by comedian and host of Rebrand, Mort Burke, to discuss… Trump: People Say I’m Jealous But My Kink Is Just Karma, Benny Johnson: Venezuela Rigged The 2020 Election! So Yeah! Trump Health? John Krasinski Laid The Groundwork For Venezuela Attack and more! U.S. plan to ‘run’ Venezuela clouded in confusion Benny Johnson: Venezuela Rigged The 2020 Election! So Yeah! Trump Health? John Krasinski Laid The Groundwork For Venezuela Attack Jack Ryan clip about Venezuela gets viral amid capture of Nicolàs Maduro. Did ‘Jack Ryan’ Predict U.S.’ Venezuela Intervention? Co-Creator Carlton Cuse Reacts To Season 2 Clip Going Viral, Shares Hopes For “Stability And Peace” Amazon's 'Jack Ryan' TV series lambasted for promoting Venezuela 'invasion' Jack Ryan is the Latest TV Show to Film at CIA Headquarters How Does Amazon's 'Jack Ryan' Compare to Real Life at the CIA? LISTEN: 4 Raws by EsDeeKidSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More Than a Song - Discovering the Truth of Scripture Hidden in Today's Popular Christian Music

Send us a textIs your Bible collecting dust while your phone never leaves your hand? Josiah Queen's song “Dusty Bibles” hits close to home, doesn't it? In this episode, we take that convicting image and follow it straight into Scripture—where King Josiah literally rediscovered God's Word after years of neglect. His response? Humility, repentance, and bold action that changed a nation.What could happen if we did the same? Join me as we explore Josiah's story in 2 Kings 22–23 and uncover practical ways to move beyond neglect and let God's Word transform our lives. Grab your Bible (or your audio app!) and let's dust it off together.Key PointsJosiah Queen's song “Dusty Bibles” paints a vivid picture of neglecting God's Word in favor of modern distractions.We explore the story of King Josiah in 2 Kings 22–23, who literally rediscovered a dust-covered scroll and responded with humility, repentance, and action.Josiah's example reminds us that interacting with God's Word leads to transformation—not just for us, but for those around us.Scriptures Referenced2 Kings 21–23 – Josiah's heritage and reforms2 Chronicles 34–35 – Parallel account of Josiah's reignGenesis 7 – Example of tackling hard truths in Scripture2 Timothy 4:3–4 – Warning against itching earsJames 4:4, 1 Peter 5:5, Proverbs 3:34, Isaiah 66:2 – God's view on humilityBITEs (Bible Interaction Tool Exercises)Consult trusted sources – Commentaries or pastors for confirmationRead in context – Chapters before and after the main textFollow cross-references – Compare Kings and ChroniclesListen to Scripture – Audio versions count!Compare translations – Gain deeper insightAdditional ResourcesDownload the free Episode GuideLyrics - New Release TodayHolman Old Testament Commentary: I & II Kings by Gary Inrig - Amazon Paid LinkBible Interaction Roadmap Bible Study - videos and assignments that will equip you with habits you can use over and over in your own Bible Study - Learn MoreLearn more about my favorite Bible Study Software with a 30-day free trial and links to my favorite Bible resources - Logos Bible Software Affiliate LinkThis Week's ChallengeLet's dust off our Bibles, cleanse our lives of our idols, and let God's Word be our guide. With that in mind, read Josiah's narrative in context — read 2 Kings 21-23. Be sure to follow the cross references to 2 Chronicles 34-35. Meditate on Josiah's interaction with God and His Word. How did he respond? How could we emulate him as we interact with God and Scripture?Purchase your copy of A Seat at the Table today! Change your music. Change your life. Join my free 30-Day Music Challenge. CLICK HERE.

Coast Mornings Podcasts with Blake and Eva
How Do You Compare to This World Record Teacher

Coast Mornings Podcasts with Blake and Eva

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2026 7:30


How Do You Compare to This World Record Teacher by Maine's Coast 93.1

Emily Chang’s Tech Briefing
We take a look at how smart rings compare to smart watches

Emily Chang’s Tech Briefing

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2026 5:05


This is our daily Tech and Business report KCBS Radio News Anchor Holly Quan spoke with Bloomberg's Samantha Kelly. Smart rings are making their way into the mainstream slowly gaining ground on smart watches.

Living on the Edge with Chip Ingram Weekend Podcast
How to Make This Year Different

Living on the Edge with Chip Ingram Weekend Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2026 25:00 Transcription Available


Frustrated by a lack of progress? Chip shares why dependency, not determination, is the key to the lasting change you desire.Threefold practice for change:Look BACKLook UPLook forwardKey areas to evaluate:Relationship with the LordMost important relationshipsPhysical healthOther relationshipsWork / Career / EducationPersonal ministryEmotional healthSet spiritual priority -Mt. 6:33Get in shape spirituallyDon't go it alone -Ec. 4:12b; Pro. 13:30Abide in Christ -John 15:5Refuse to rely on sheer willpower, habits, and hacks.Final thoughtsRefuse to COMPARE yourself with other people. -2 Cor. 10:12Refuse to be a PEOPLE pleaser. -Lk. 16:15; Gal. 1:10ConclusionEvaluateLook backLook upPrioritizeBroadcast ResourceDownload Free MP3Message NotesAdditional Resource MentionsI Choose Love BookDaily Discipleship - Psalms of HopeConnect888-333-6003WebsiteChip Ingram AppInstagramFacebookTwitterPartner With UsDonate Online888-333-6003

Club Capital Leadership Podcast
Episode 528: Read It. Realized It?

Club Capital Leadership Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2026 10:50


Welcome to 2026! In this episode, Bradley shares a powerful insight from a recent breakfast conversation that will transform how you approach reading business books this year. The question isn't just "Have you read it?" — it's "Have you realized it?"During a coffee meeting with an incredibly well-read business leader, Bradley heard a phrase he'd never forget. When discussing books they'd both read, his breakfast companion asked about The Fifth Discipline and whether leaders had actually "realized" the books on their shelves — not just read them.Reading vs. RealizingThere's a massive difference between consuming content and implementing it. Bradley reflects on books he's read where he could share the big idea but couldn't articulate how those concepts actually changed his business or personal life. Compare that to books like The Road Less Stupid, which he references at least once a year and has profoundly impacted his decision-making.Join Us at the 2026 Above The Business Event SeriesWant to experience more transformational content like this? Join us for the 2026 Above The Business event series where we'll dive deep into the strategies, systems, and mindset shifts that help you move from Rainmaker to Architect.Get above the daily grind and design a business that can run and grow without you.Learn more at https://blueprintos.com Thanks to our sponsors...Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.More money & more freedom: that's what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here's an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They'll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they'll waive all setup fees.

Living on the Edge with Chip Ingram Daily Podcast
How to Make This Year Different

Living on the Edge with Chip Ingram Daily Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2026 30:56 Transcription Available


Frustrated by a lack of progress? Chip shares why dependency, not determination, is the key to the lasting change you desire.Threefold practice for change:Look BACKLook UPLook forwardKey areas to evaluate:Relationship with the LordMost important relationshipsPhysical healthOther relationshipsWork / Career / EducationPersonal ministryEmotional healthSet spiritual priority -Mt. 6:33Get in shape spirituallyDon't go it alone -Ec. 4:12b; Pro. 13:30Abide in Christ -John 15:5Refuse to rely on sheer willpower, habits, and hacks.Final thoughtsRefuse to COMPARE yourself with other people. -2 Cor. 10:12Refuse to be a PEOPLE pleaser. -Lk. 16:15; Gal. 1:10ConclusionEvaluateLook backLook upPrioritizeBroadcast ResourceDownload Free MP3Message NotesAdditional Resource MentionsI Choose Love BookDaily Discipleship - Psalms of HopeConnect888-333-6003WebsiteChip Ingram AppInstagramFacebookTwitterPartner With UsDonate Online888-333-6003

Sports Talk With Brodes
Will You Compare Tanner McKee to Jalen Hurts Sunday? | 94.1 Afternoons

Sports Talk With Brodes

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2026 41:07 Transcription Available


Brodes in for WIP Afternoon Show asks if you will be comparing Tanner McKee to Jalen Hurts on Sunday vs Commanders?

The Mom Room
REWIND: Relationship Compassion (don't compare your relationship to what it was pre-kids)

The Mom Room

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2026 26:03


EP567. Happy Holidays! We will be back with all new episodes on January 6th 2026! For now, please enjoy this vintage solo episode on relationship compassion!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alcohol Recovery Podcast | The ODAAT Chat Podcast
411 The Neuroscience of Anxiety, Addiction, Over Eating, And How To Break The Habit Loop With Dr Jud Brewer

Alcohol Recovery Podcast | The ODAAT Chat Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2026 57:33


Anxiety Isn't the Problem — It's the Habit Loop Behind It I recently had a conversation with psychiatrist and neuroscientist Jud Brewer that stopped me in my tracks — not because it was abstract or inspirational, but because it finally explained something I've lived with for decades. Even in long-term sobriety. Even with years of self-work, therapy, meetings, journaling, and personal development. That thing is anxiety — and more specifically, how anxiety quietly turns into habits like worrying, overthinking, scrolling, information hoarding, procrastinating, and self-judgment. What Dr. Brewer helped me see is this: Anxiety isn't a personal flaw. It's a learned habit loop. And once I saw that clearly, everything changed.     Worry Is a Behavior — Not a Personality Trait One of the most powerful reframes from our conversation was this: Worry isn't just a feeling — it's something we do. Anxiety shows up as a sensation in the body. Worry is the mental behavior we use to try to control that sensation. And here's the trap: Worry feels productive. It feels like we're doing something. That tiny sense of relief is enough to reward the brain — which means the loop gets reinforced. Anxiety → Worry → Temporary relief → Repeat Over time, this becomes automatic. So automatic we don't even realize we're doing it. That's the definition of a habit.     Why "Why Am I Like This?" Keeps Us Stuck As someone in recovery, I'm very familiar with the idea of "getting to the root cause." Childhood trauma, identity, shame, conditioning — all of that matters. But here's what surprised me: Dr. Brewer says the "why" is often the least important part when it comes to changing anxiety. Not because the past doesn't matter — but because focusing on why often keeps us stuck in our heads instead of helping us change what we're doing right now. When anxiety hits, the more helpful question isn't: "Why am I like this?" It's: "What am I getting from this behavior?" That question shifts us from self-blame to curiosity — and curiosity is where real change begins.     The Default Mode Network (AKA: The Overthinking Machine) We also talked about the brain's default mode network — the system that activates when we're not focused on a task. This network lights up when we: Worry about the future Replay the past Judge ourselves Compare ourselves to others Crave, resist, or ruminate In other words: it's the "me, me, me" network. When fear (an urge to act now) gets crossed with planning (thinking about the future), we get anxiety. Anxiety doesn't help us act. It freezes us. That's why so many high-achievers know exactly what to do — and still don't do it.     The Three Gears of Change (This Is the Part That Actually Helps) Dr. Brewer's work focuses on a simple but profound process he calls the three gears: ⚙️ Gear 1: Awareness Notice the behavior. Worrying. Scrolling. Self-judging. Avoiding. No fixing. No shaming. Just noticing. If it's automatic, it's a habit — and habits can be changed.     ⚙️ Gear 2: Ask "What Am I Getting From This?" This is the most overlooked step. Not: "What should I be doing?" "What's wrong with me?" "Why can't I just stop?" But: What is this giving me right now? Safety? Distraction? Avoidance of shame? Temporary relief? When we see clearly that the reward is small — and the cost is high — the habit starts to lose its power.     ⚙️ Gear 3: Find the Bigger, Better Offer This is where things shift. Instead of numbing, distracting, or fighting anxiety, we learn to meet it differently — and that feels better than the habit itself. That's where the RAIN practice comes in.     RAIN: A Way to Be With Anxiety Without Escaping It RAIN stands for: R – Recognize what's happening A – Allow it to be there I – Investigate with curiosity (What does this feel like in my body?) N – Note what's happening moment to moment Here's the surprising part: When we stop trying to get rid of anxiety and simply observe it, it often passes on its own. Cravings peak and fall. Sensations rise and fade. Even when they feel like they'll last forever — they don't.     Action Steps (Try This This Week) If anxiety, overthinking, or procrastination are showing up in your life, try this: Catch the Habit Notice when anxiety turns into worrying, scrolling, or self-judgment. Ask One Question What am I getting from this right now? Practice RAIN Don't fix. Don't flee. Just observe. Change the Language Instead of "I am anxious," try: "I'm noticing anxiety in my body." Let the Wave Pass You don't have to do anything for it to end.     Resources Mentioned Unwinding Anxiety by Jud Brewer Trigger–Habit–Outcome Mapping (free worksheet referenced by Dr. Brewer) RAIN mindfulness practice Going Beyond Anxiety program (Dr. Brewer's advanced work)     Final Thought You're not broken. You're not failing. You're not missing some secret piece of information. Your brain learned a habit — and habits can be unlearned. With awareness, curiosity, and kindness, anxiety doesn't have to run your life. It can become a signal — not a sentence.

Voice of the DBA
Finding Motivation

Voice of the DBA

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 2:57


I ran across a tweet (are they still tweets?) on X/Twitter that was titled: how to ruin yourself. It had these items, which seem to be coming from a young person. Either a student or in their first job. Stay on your phone all day. Feel sad for no clear reason. Stop eating well and ignore your studies. Sleep super late and wake up in the afternoon. Let sadness take over everything. Always look at others' lives and feel yours isn't enough. Keep blaming yourself for the past but never try to let it go. Compare your progress with people who started years before you. Get stuck imagining outcomes instead of creating them. Keep waiting for motivation instead of building discipline. What was interesting to me is I saw people doing similar things when I was younger. Either adults with careers or fellow students. I'd change "sad" to "anger", which I saw a lot in the 80s. Replace the phone with TV, as I saw lots of people start to invest a lot of time in TV with the growth of cable and 24-hour channels in the early 80s. Eating well was less of a thing, but drinking more was a thing. However, many people stagnated, or maybe ruined, themselves in similar ways. Read the rest of Finding Motivation

VPR News Podcast
Leila Fadel and Jenn Jarecki compare notes on 'Morning Edition' hosting, journalism and Vermont

VPR News Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 7:47


NPR Morning Edition host Leila Fadel recently sat down with Vermont Public Morning Edition host Jenn Jarecki to talk about the show, working in daily news, and Fadel's reporting visit to Vermont this past April.

Money Matters With Wes Moss
Retirement Planning in Real Life: Rule of 55, Grandkids, and Going Global

Money Matters With Wes Moss

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 36:30


Want clearer context around today's most discussed retirement planning questions—without hype or shortcuts? In this episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase address listener questions and planning scenarios that illustrate how retirement income, investing decisions, and lifestyle priorities are commonly evaluated over time. • Explore how holiday traditions and intentional rest are often discussed as elements of lifestyle planning throughout retirement. • Review early retirement scenarios by outlining how asset allocation, withdrawal considerations, and legacy goals are typically framed in planning conversations. • Compare alternatives to 529 plans for grandchildren by discussing custodial Roth IRAs, joint accounts, and UTMA accounts, along with commonly referenced considerations. • Clarify how financial advisors are frequently described beyond investment selection by addressing coordination, decision-making support, and long-term planning oversight. • Explain how the Rule of 55 is commonly referenced when discussing early access to retirement accounts and retirement timing considerations. • Illustrate an international retirement example through “Almost Free Freddie,” reviewing how cost-of-living assumptions, pensions, VA income, and rental properties are often evaluated. • Discuss the role of small- and mid-cap stocks within diversified portfolios and how companies may evolve across market cycles. • Reassess the “happy retiree” home-value benchmark by placing housing inflation and mortgage status into broader retirement planning context. Designed to provide clarity, perspective, and education—not predictions—this episode adds structure to complex retirement topics. Listen to the Money Matters Podcast and subscribe for ongoing discussions centered on retirement planning, investing principles, and long-term financial decision-making.

CME in Minutes: Education in Rheumatology, Immunology, & Infectious Diseases
Tina Q. Tan, MD - Infant RSV Protection: Guiding Families Through Immunization Decisions in Clinical Practice

CME in Minutes: Education in Rheumatology, Immunology, & Infectious Diseases

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 22:05


Please visit answersincme.com/WFH860 to participate, download slides and supporting materials, complete the post test, and get a certificate. In this activity, an expert in infectious diseases discusses RSV vaccination indications, scheduling, and uptake. Upon completion of this activity, participants should be better able to: Identify the pressing need for RSV prevention in infants (≤24 months); Compare the administration schedules and clinical indications of available RSV prophylactic agents for infants; and Review strategies to address caregiver concerns and increase uptake of RSV prophylaxis in infants.

CME in Minutes: Education in Primary Care
Tina Q. Tan, MD - Infant RSV Protection: Guiding Families Through Immunization Decisions in Clinical Practice

CME in Minutes: Education in Primary Care

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 22:05


Please visit answersincme.com/WFH860 to participate, download slides and supporting materials, complete the post test, and get a certificate. In this activity, an expert in infectious diseases discusses RSV vaccination indications, scheduling, and uptake. Upon completion of this activity, participants should be better able to: Identify the pressing need for RSV prevention in infants (≤24 months); Compare the administration schedules and clinical indications of available RSV prophylactic agents for infants; and Review strategies to address caregiver concerns and increase uptake of RSV prophylaxis in infants.

X22 Report
Midterm Strategy Emerges,Trump Is Taking Down The [DS] Entire Corrupt Temple, Retribution – Ep. 3805

X22 Report

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 97:57


Watch The X22 Report On Video No videos found (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:17532056201798502,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-9437-3289"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");pt> Click On Picture To See Larger Picture[CB] around the world are dumping the Fed note, they just aren’t taking on anymore, everything is about to change. Trump’s GDP outshines Biden’s. China is now going to restrict silver, silver is used in electronics, batteries,solar panels etc. Silver prices are going to move. [CB] fraud is now exposed. The Tariff system is the future. The [DS] criminal syndicate is being exposed, it’s not just in DC it is world wide. As people learn how corrupt the system is and most of the taxes and borrowing goes to support the criminal system the people will be with Trump to remove the Fed. Trump is in the process of bringing down the entire corrupt temple on the [DS]. Trump moves closer to peace with Ukraine, 2026 is going to change everything. Economy Status of the US Dollar as Global Reserve Currency: USD Share Drops to Lowest since 1994  Central Banks diversify their holdings into dozens of smaller “non-traditional reserve currencies.”  The share of USD-denominated assets held by other central banks dropped to 56.9% of total foreign exchange reserves in Q3, the lowest since 1994, from 57.1% in Q2 and 58.5% in Q1, according to the IMF's new data on Currency Composition of Official Foreign Exchange Reserves. USD-denominated foreign exchange reserves include US Treasury securities, US mortgage-backed securities (MBS), US agency securities, US corporate bonds, and other USD-denominated assets held by central banks other than the Fed. Excluded are any central bank's assets denominated in its own currency, such as the Fed's Treasury securities or the ECB's euro-denominated securities. It's not that foreign central banks dumped US-dollar-denominated assets, such as Treasury securities. They did not. They added a little to their holdings. But they added more assets denominated in other currencies, particularly a gaggle of smaller currencies whose combined share has surged, while central banks' holdings of USD-denominated assets haven't changed much for a decade, and so the percentage share of those USD assets continued to decline.   Central banks' holdings of foreign exchange reserves in all currencies, and expressed in USD, rose to $13.0 trillion in Q3. Top holdings, expressed in USD: USD assets: $7.41 trillion Euro assets (EUR): $2.65 trillion Yen assets (YEN): $0.76 trillion British pound assets (GBP): $0.58 trillion Canadian dollar assets (CAD): $0.35 trillion Australian dollar assets (AUD): $0.27 trillion Chinese renminbi (RMB) assets: $0.25 trillion Source: wolfstreet.com (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:18510697282300316,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-8599-9832"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");  https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/2004750391435755846?s=20 https://twitter.com/ElectionWiz/status/2004928015172821228?s=20 https://twitter.com/ElectionWiz/status/2004946780216328590?s=20  Political/Rights https://twitter.com/Patri0tContr0l/status/2004590513182367845?s=20  https://twitter.com/Geiger_Capital/status/2005107085865103608?s=20 ICE: 70% Arrested Had Criminal Ties Roughly 70% of illegal migrants arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the second Trump administration reportedly had been convicted of or faced charges for criminal offenses. New data provided to the Washington Examiner shows the Trump administration arrested about 595,000 illegal immigrants between Jan. 20 and Dec. 11, according to the Department of Homeland Security. ICE said 70%, roughly 416,000, had “criminal convictions or pending criminal charges” in the United States, underscoring President Donald Trump’s promise to prioritize the “worst of the worst” in immigration enforcement. ICE officials stressed that even those without U.S. criminal records can still pose major public safety threats, the agency said, noting many are wanted abroad for violent crimes or have ties to gangs, terrorism, or other serious offenses. “This statistic doesn’t account for those wanted for violent crimes in their home country or another country, INTERPOL notices, human rights abusers, gang members, terrorists, etc. The list goes on,” an ICE spokesperson told the Examiner. Source: newsmax.com   New Files Show Epstein Was ‘Too Useful' for Banks to Drop — Trump Was ‘Too Politically Dangerous' to Keep  The newest Epstein disclosures include deposition testimony that illustrates, in unusually concrete detail, how major financial institutions assessed risk, value, and accountability. The transcript does not add new allegations about Epstein. Instead, it explains why he remained bankable long after his 2008 conviction and why his relationship with major banks survived despite generating almost no traditional revenue. That institutional logic is the same logic that later drove JPMorgan to end its ties with Trump Media, and the contrast between the two cases shows how selectively these standards are applied. In the deposition, Paul Morris—a private banker who handled Epstein's accounts at JPMorgan Chase and later Deutsche Bank—described Epstein's financial profile with unusual precision. Epstein's trading was minimal. His accounts produced limited fees. He was not a high-activity client and did not utilize the investment tools that banks rely on to generate consistent revenue. By every conventional benchmark, he was a low-value account. And yet, the relationship continued. The deposition shows why. Epstein was not retained for his financial performance but for his institutional usefulness. Morris acknowledged that Epstein facilitated introductions to ultra-wealthy individuals that the bank viewed as essential prospects. One example was Leon Black, whom Morris identified as a “priority prospect” because of Black's significant net worth and influence in the investment sector. Epstein introduced the bank to real-estate investor Andrew Farkas and discussed a potential connection involving biotech investor Boris Nikolic, who had ties to Bill Gates. These introductions were specific, documented, and initiated by Epstein, not the bank. This is the key element that many public accounts overlook. Epstein was not being managed as a traditional client. He functioned as a relationship broker inside a system where introductions to power carry more internal value than account-level returns. Source: thegatewaypundit.com  DOGE Geopolitical The EU Leaders Shouting About Visa Bans Are the Same EU Leaders Who Sent Political Operatives Into the U.S. to Support Kamala Harris  EU leaders from across the spectrum of their collective assembly, are furious with the administration of President Donald Trump for restricting their entry into the United States by blocking their visa permissions.  However, these same EU leaders are the people who sent operatives into the United States in order to interfere in our 2024 election. The Vice President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, sums up the European position: “The decision by the U.S. to impose travel restrictions on European citizens and officials is unacceptable and an attempt to challenge our sovereignty. Europe will keep defending its values — freedom of expression, fair digital rules, and the right to regulate our own space.” The “attempt to challenge our sovereignty” statement is a particular type of hubris when we consider THIS: GREAT BRITAIN (October 2024) – The British Labour Party is sending approximately 100 current and former staff members to the United States to work for Vice President Kamala Harris' campaign in key swing states. [SOURCE – LINKEDIN] Not only did the U.K attempt to challenge our sovereignty, but they also actively worked to influence the outcome of our national election in 2024. It is worth remembering the British intelligence operation, (Secret Intelligence Service (SIS), commonly known as MI6), was at the center of the Trump-Russia collusion conspiracy in 2016. The first EU political group to be targeted with the visa bans includes French former EU commissioner Thierry Breton, who was one of the architects of the EU's Digital Services Act (DSA). Also: Imran Ahmed, the British CEO of the U.S.-based Center for Countering Digital Hate, Anna-Lena von Hodenberg and Josephine Ballon of the German non-profit HateAid, and Clare Melford, co-founder of the Global Disinformation Index. https://twitter.com/GeneHamilton/status/2004656229684224393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2004656229684224393%7Ctwgr%5E91706d63d41394916634b106fbd2268d7711e121%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheconservativetreehouse.com%2Fblog%2F2025%2F12%2F27%2Fthe-eu-leaders-shouting-about-visa-bans-are-the-same-eu-leaders-who-sent-political-operatives-into-the-u-s-to-support-kamala-harris%2F https://twitter.com/GeneHamilton/status/2004656234910433405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2004656234910433405%7Ctwgr%5E91706d63d41394916634b106fbd2268d7711e121%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheconservativetreehouse.com%2Fblog%2F2025%2F12%2F27%2Fthe-eu-leaders-shouting-about-visa-bans-are-the-same-eu-leaders-who-sent-political-operatives-into-the-u-s-to-support-kamala-harris%2F Source: theconservativetreehouse.com https://twitter.com/michaelgwaltz/status/2005058695647166898?s=20 https://twitter.com/visegrad24/status/2005035840934723894?s=20 War/Peace   EIGHT, perhaps the United States has become the REAL United Nations, which has been of very little assistance or help in any of them, including the disaster currently going on between Russia and Ukraine. The United Nations must start getting active and involved in WORLD PEACE!   the United States is capable of doing. Under my leadership, our Country will not allow Radical Islamic Terrorism to prosper. May God Bless our Military, and MERRY CHRISTMAS to all, including the dead Terrorists, of which there will be many more if their slaughter of Christians continues.   DONALD J. TRUMP PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Trump Tasks Military With an ‘Oil Quarantine' Against Venezuela, as Economic Pressure Is Chosen for Now Over Military Action Venezuela's oil industry under maximum pressure.   And now that the extended holidays are over, the socialist regime will have to deal with the veritable siege imposed by the US and its unprecedented armada. Venezuela is running out of storage space for its oil production since some ships are being seized and many others turned around and left.  Now, it arises that Donald J. Trump has directed US forces to enforce ‘an oil quarantine' against Venezuela for at least the next two months. These moves lead many to think that the Trump team will focus on economic rather than military means to pressure Caracas into ousting Maduro. Reuters reported:   Read  more: Source: thegatewaypundit.com Trump Blockade Leaves $1 Billion Of Venezuelan Crude Stranded On Tankers  With a two-month “quarantine” placed on Venezuelan oil by the Trump administration in a foreign policy move called “gunboat diplomacy,” new data estimate that roughly $900 million worth of crude is currently loaded on tankers, unable to depart Venezuela due to the U.S. blockade. “Based on our visual analysis from both shore and space, we estimate that there are around 17.5 million barrels of crude oil floating onboard tankers in Venezuela which are unable to depart due to the ongoing US blockade,” independent research Tanker Trackers wrote on X. “That’s around $900M of oil.” https://twitter.com/TankerTrackers/status/2004713684871078162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2004713684871078162%7Ctwgr%5E016cd45f97095edcd74bb159f40c4e93caf9794d%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.zerohedge.com%2Fcommodities%2Ftrump-blockade-leaves-1-billion-venezuelan-crude-stranded-tankers Source: zerohedge.com Trump to POLITICO: Zelenskyy ‘doesn't have anything until I approve it' Trump's comments come ahead of his Sunday meeting with Zelenskyy, who will bring with him a new 20-point plan to end the war President Donald Trump on Friday cast himself as the ultimate arbiter of any peace deal between Ukraine and Russia, in an exclusive conversation with POLITICO. “He doesn't have anything until I approve it,” Trump said. “So we'll see what he's got.” Source: politico.com https://twitter.com/FoxNews/status/2005352028365848993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2005352028365848993%7Ctwgr%5E1588e24fb392689513bf7b2f064c646c1bf5f470%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegatewaypundit.com%2F2025%2F12%2Ftrump-says-russia-ukraine-peace-talks-entering-final%2F  Medical/False Flags 19 Blue States Sue Trump Admin to Preserve Right to Perform Child Sex Changes Last week, Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said he would cut off Medicare and Medicaid funding to any provider that offers so-called gender-affirming treatment to minors. “Under my leadership, and answering President Trump's call to action, the federal government will do everything in its power to stop unsafe, irreversible practices that put our children at risk,” Kennedy said at the time. The Oregon-led lawsuit claims that the decision “exceeds the Secretary's authority and violates the Administrative Procedure Act and the Medicare and Medicaid statutes.” A total of nineteen blue states are suing the Trump administration in a bid to protect the right to perform child sex changes. His office said in a press release: Source: thegatewaypundit.com [DS] Agenda  https://twitter.com/nickshirleyy/status/2004642794862961123?s=20   work way too hard and pay too much in taxes for this to be happening, the fraud must be stopped. https://twitter.com/MAGAVoice/status/2005011311756017964?s=20 https://twitter.com/libsoftiktok/status/2005158623442600391?s=20 https://twitter.com/DataRepublican/status/2005292438114738555?s=20  diabolical. And it’s going to work until we understand that primaries will be more important than generals from here out on. https://twitter.com/C_3C_3/status/2005016429687701811?s=20 https://twitter.com/WarClandestine/status/2005351086115405986?s=20 https://twitter.com/CynicalPublius/status/2005030256382464493?s=20  and your tribe. I spent a lot of my life in the Middle East and Central Asia, working closely with foreign contractors and foreign governments to provide support to American military operations. As a US Army officer with a big checkbook courtesy of Uncle Sam, I can't really count the sheer number of times I was offered bribes to award a contract, or falsify records to do things like create larger (fake) headcounts at places like dining facilities, or to just simply be on the take for future illegal requests. Of course I had enough sense to never comply with such requests. Moreover, they were never explicitly structured as “bribes”; instead it was usually along the lines of “Here I have these Rolexes as gifts for you and your wife to show our friendship.” (Unfortunately, too many US officers and NCOs succumbed to this siren song and ended up breaking rocks in Leavenworth.) The weird thing about this to me was that whenever I turned down such an offering, it was treated as a grave insult. I was the one in the wrong, and not the fraudster trying to bribe me. They considered it rude that I was in their country and refused to accept how things got done. After all, why did I not want to help my tribe by helping their tribe? Let me repeat: in these cultures, FRAUD IS NOT EVEN A CONCEPT. There is only what helps your tribe. Such thought processes are so alien to Americans and much of the West. We are raised on the presumption that our institutions are valid, that the rule of law always prevails, and that integrity is universal. We need these presumptions to have working governments and economies, and without those presumptions—without the mental barrier that causes us not to accept outright fraud—our nation would quickly descend into the economic and social hellscape of countries like…. ummm… you know…. SOMALIA! So when we import people en masse from cultures that accept bribery and fraud as routine, acceptable ways to advance one's tribe, we should not be surprised that things like the $8 BILLION fraud schemes of the Somali population in Minnesota happen so easily. Introducing a fraud-based culture based on tribalism into America is like introducing some sort of lethal virus into a population that has no natural immunity. The virus will spread and grow, unchecked, because it is so alien to the host. Similarly, a culture of fraud is anathema to American thinking, and it must be cut out before it consumes the host. So when you see and hear patriotic Americans decrying what is happening in Minnesota or elsewhere, and when they seek deportation of the offenders, it is not “racism,” it is not “bigotry,” it is not “xenophobia”; instead, it is preserving the American tradition of responsible institutions and national integrity. https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/2005262465190223928?s=20 https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/2005305530651189719?s=20   exploiting federal programs. Fraud that steals from taxpayers and robs vulnerable children will remain a top FBI priority in Minnesota and nationwide. To date, the FBI dismantled a $250 million fraud scheme that stole federal food aid meant for vulnerable children during COVID. The investigation exposed sham vendors, shell companies, and large-scale money laundering tied to the Feeding Our Future network. The case led to 78 indictments and 57 convictions. Defendants included Abdiwahab Ahmed Mohamud, Ahmed Ali, Hussein Farah, Abdullahe Nur Jesow, Asha Farhan Hassan, Ousman Camara, and Abdirashid Bixi Dool, each charged for roles ranging from wire fraud to money laundering and conspiracy. These criminals didn't just engaged in historic fraud, but tried to subvert justice as well. Abdimajid Mohamed Nur and others were charged for attempting to bribe a juror with $120,000 in cash. Those responsible pleaded guilty and were sentenced, including a 10-year prison term and nearly $48 million in restitution in related cases. The FBI believes this is just the tip of a very large iceberg. We will continue to follow the money and protect children, and this investigation very much remains ongoing. Furthermore, many are also being referred to immigrations officials for possible further denaturalization and deportation proceedings where eligible. https://twitter.com/ScottPresler/status/2004932316926193933?s=20 https://twitter.com/HarmeetKDhillon/status/2004976287270731981?s=20 https://twitter.com/rising_serpent/status/2005080344610177489?s=20  https://twitter.com/amuse/status/2005092720927232198?s=20  “skeptical jurors” in federal cases involving President Trump. Co-founder Alex Dodds said jurors have “enormous power” to judge the administration itself. Critics report the sessions encourage rigging trials against the administration, conduct plainly barred under 8 USC §1503. President Trump's Plan https://twitter.com/WarClandestine/status/2004653262491058216?s=20 accomplished what no one else could. When we arrived, taxpayers were about to be on the hook for nearly $5 billion for a new headquarters that wouldn't open until 2035. We scrapped that plan. Instead, we selected the already-existing Reagan Building, saving billions and allowing the transition to begin immediately with required safety and infrastructure upgrades already underway. Once complete, most of the HQ FBI workforce will move in, and the rest are continuing in our ongoing push to put more manpower in the field, where they will remain. This decision puts resources where they belong: defending the homeland, crushing violent crime, and protecting national security. It delivers better tools for today's FBI workforce at a fraction of the cost. The Hoover Building will be shut down permanently.  They Got Her: FBI Caught Hillary Clinton Talking Donations with Foreign Felon on Tape As Hillary Clinton closed in on the presidential nomination in the spring of 2016, FBI field officers advised colleagues at headquarters to press her on the foreign donations flowing to the Clinton Foundation while she steered American foreign policy and whether she had used the charity as a campaign piggy bank. But the FBI HQ in Washington — a city in which the former secretary of state and first lady wields enormous influence — let the trail go cold. FBI New York Assistant Director in Charge Diego Rodriguez advised agents in Washington to ask Clinton several questions about the foundation, which are reproduced in full in documents released to the Senate Judiciary Committee by the FBI and published on Dec. 15. The questions reveal the concerns about foreign bribery that the Clinton Foundation case — codenamed “Cracked Foundation” — had uncovered. Among the evidence available to investigators, according to their questions: A recorded conversation between Clinton and Indian hotel magnate Sant Singh Chatwal in which Clinton discussed donations to the foundation and her remaining 2008 campaign debt. The new documents confirm that the FBI had at one time been “intercepting individuals associated with the Clinton Foundation.” Source: westernjournal.com  John Brennan's Lawfare Lawyers are Revealing More Than They Intend   former CIA Director John Brennan are sending proactive letters to the Federal District Court for the Southern District of Florida {SEE HERE}.  However, some of the information included in the letters intended to be exculpatory is actually damning against their defense position. You have to go deep in the weeds to see it but if you understand the details of the events, the information being revealed by Brennan's lawyers is the opposite of helpful to his case.  As an example, there is a citation included in a footnote of the December 22, 2025, [fn #20 page 6] letter that links to a March 31, 2022, letter sent to John Durham. Here's page 6 of the 2025 letter. Compare the underlined section to the 2022 letter sent to John Durham. In 2025 Brennan is telling the Florida court the Intelligence Community Assessment (ICA) conclusion was confirmed by Special Counsel Robert Mueller in a “very serious review.”  However, in 2022 Brennan told John Durham that Robert Mueller never interviewed him or offered an assessment of the ICA; Mueller just regurgitated it. So, which is it? These contradictions are throughout both of the letters when you compare them side-by-side.  In 2022 former CIA Director John Brennan was trying to escape the Durham review.  In 2025 Brennan is trying to escape a grand jury review. [We are aware that the U.S Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Jason Reding Quiñones, has access to the CTH public library of research into all of these historic events.] There are other citations in the 2022 letter that are certainly worth reviewing because the legally binding statements made by John Brennan at the time have been shown to be false in 2025. Another of the claims in the 2022 letter to John Durham highlights why it was critical for the CIA to assist in the capture and arrest of Julian Assange in 2019. Source: thegatewaypundit.com  Trump: Upcoming Midterms Will Be ‘About Pricing’ The 2026 midterm elections will be “about pricing,” according to President Donald Trump, who said that his administration is restoring the nation’s economy after the condition in which former President Joe Biden left it. “I think it’s going to be about the success of our country,” Trump said in an interview with Politico, the outlet reported Saturday. “They gave us high pricing, and we’re bringing it down. Energy’s way down. Gasoline is way down.” Over the past two weeks, a series of positive economic reports has shown that inflation is decreasing, with the White House highlighting the latest data while addressing cost-of-living concerns nationwide. According to a Politico poll conducted last month, Americans say they are finding that the costs of groceries, utilities, healthcare, housing, and transportation are too expensive. Trump has been fighting to reframe that, however, blaming Democrats under Biden for driving prices up. He said in the interview, conducted Friday, that “electricity is down. It’s way down.” “When the gasoline goes down, and when the oil and gas go down, the electricity comes down naturally,” he said. “But it’s all coming down. It’s all coming down. It’s coming beautifully.” Source: newsmax.com https://twitter.com/WarClandestine/status/2004696380531503505?s=20   the NG will have quick response troops on standby in every state, the FBI building is being moved to a new location, the war between Russia and Ukraine is coming to an end, and all of Trump's pieces will be in place. There seems to be a shift in attitude. I think we are passing into a different phase of the operation. The shadow war will eventually have to come to the surface. (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:13499335648425062,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-7164-1323"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="//cdn2.customads.co/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");

Behind The Knife: The Surgery Podcast
Journal Review in Emergency General Surgery: Small Bowel Obstruction - What 15 Years of Data Teach Us in Tiger Country

Behind The Knife: The Surgery Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 32:45


Strap in and grab your NG tubes, because the EGS team in TIGER Country is taking you on a fast, forceful, and evidence-packed ride through 15 years of global SBO literature. From the OG 2011 Zielinski model to the latest 2025 predictive tools sweeping across Europe and North America, we're breaking down what matters when the bowel stops behaving and the clock starts ticking.  Join Dr. Rushabh Dev and the Acute Care Surgery crew at the University of Missouri as they tackle the most common EGS consult in America with humor, data, and real-world pearls. Get ready for CT red flags, strangulation scores, Gastrografin truths, and the eternal battle between “operate early” vs. “wait it out.” Whether you're a med student trying to decode your first CT or a seasoned attending debating the next Gastrografin challenge, this episode delivers the insights you need to Dominate the Day. Participants: Dr. Rushabh Dev FACS (Moderator, Surgical Attending) – Assistant Professor of Surgery, Associate PD ACS & SCCM Fellowship, SICU Medical Director, Lieutenant Commander United States Navy Reserve   Dr. Raymond Okeke; Acute Care Surgery & SCCM Fellow  Dr. Eugene Ismailov, General Surgery Resident; PGY 5 Dr. Brycen Ratcliffe, General Surgery Resident; PGY 4 Dr. Desra Flecher, General Surgery Resident; PGY 3 Objectives: 1. Identify the core clinical and CT predictors of operative need in SBO including mesenteric edema, free fluid, closed-loop obstruction, lack of enhancement, and feces sign absence — and understand how these features have remained consistent across 15 years of research. 2. Compare major international SBO predictive models (Zielinski, Geneva Severity Score, STRISK, and NOFA) and describe how they inform real-time decision-making in North American acute care surgery. 3. Apply evidence-based algorithms, including the 2025 JTACS EGS pathway to structure SBO evaluation, integrate Water-Soluble Contrast studies, and avoid delayed surgery in high-risk patients. 4. Evaluate the long-term impact of operative vs. non-operative management with emphasis on recurrence risk, timing between episodes, and how to incorporate recurrence data into patient counseling. 5. Synthesize 15 years of evolving SBO literature into practical bedside strategies by balancing red-flag findings, risk-model guidance, and individualized clinical judgment to optimize outcomes. STRISK and NOFA Calculator: Prediction Models | Clinical Abdominal Surgery Helsinki References  1. Geneva Clinical Severity Score Wassmer, C. H., Guber, J., Zeindler, J., Meier, R. P. H., Ouaïssi, M., Ris, F., Morel, P., Didier, C., & Gkikas, I. (2023). A new clinical severity score for the management of adhesive small bowel obstruction: A cohort study. International Journal of Surgery, 109, 262–270. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37026805/ 2. STRISK & NOFA Predictive Models Räty, S., Rinta-Kilpinen, E., Eklund, M., Turunen, N., Koskinen, I., Rasilainen, S., Korhonen, T., & Paajanen, H. (2025). Development and external validation of prediction risk models for strangulation or non-operative treatment failure in small bowel obstruction: A multicenter prospective study. Surgery, 178(1), 45–56. Prediction Models | Clinical Abdominal Surgery Helsinki 3. JTACS EGS Algorithm – Evidence-Based, Cost-Effective Management Livingston, D. H., Wolfson, D., Cogbill, T. H., Rice, T. W., Patel, N., et al. (2025). Evidence-based, cost-effective management of small bowel obstruction: An Emergency General Surgery Algorithms Work Group project. Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, 98(4), 512–528. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40842046/ 4. Tennessee Recurrence Study (Operative vs Non-Operative Management) Medvecz, A. J., Dennis, B. M., Wang, L., Countouris, M. E., Croce, M. A., Sharpe, J. P., Ivanova, A., & Miller, R. S. (2020). Impact of operative management on recurrence of adhesive small bowel obstruction: A longitudinal analysis of a statewide database. Journal of the American College of Surgeons, 230(4), 544–551.e1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31954815/ 5. Early Predictive SBO Work – Zielinski (2010–2011) Zielinski, M. D., Eiken, P. W., Bannon, M. P., Heller, S. F., Lohse, C. M., & Huebner, M. (2010). Small bowel obstruction—Who needs an operation? A multivariate prediction model. World Journal of Surgery, 34(5), 910–919. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20217412/ 6. Zielinski, M. D., Haddad, N. N., Cullinane, D. C., Eiken, P. W., & Huebner, M. (2011). Prospective, observational validation of a multivariate small bowel obstruction model to predict the need for operative intervention. Journal of the American College of Surgeons, 212(6), 1068–1076. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21458305/ Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://behindtheknife.org/listen Behind the Knife Premium: General Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/general-surgery-oral-board-review Trauma Surgery Video Atlas: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/trauma-surgery-video-atlas Dominate Surgery: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Clerkship: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-clerkship Dominate Surgery for APPs: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Rotation: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-for-apps-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-rotation Vascular Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/vascular-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-audio-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Download our App: Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/behind-the-knife/id1672420049 Android/Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.btk.app&hl=en_US

Hebrew Nation Online
Dr Hollisa Alewine – Footsteps of Messiah Part 176 (Noisy Doors, Leaky Roofs, and the Mark of the Beast)

Hebrew Nation Online

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 46:00


Noisy Doors, Leaky Roofs, and the Mark of the Beast Last week's newsletter was written to be very simple. This week...not simple. We're tying together our lessons on the Salt Covenant, The Scarlet Harlot, and the basic menorah pattern of Workbook One. So no, it's not simple, but it's not too difficult, either! Try printing it off and studying it over two Shabbats, referencing the suggested videos or workbooks as you go.   ***   So what do noisy doors, leaky roofs, and the mark of the beast have in common?    Excellent question! I'm glad you asked.   In order to see the connection, we have to know a little something about each of them. If you want a refresher on the Beast, consider signing up for the Creation Gospel Workbook Four class coming up with Kisha Gallagher (scroll down for info) or watching the Scarlet Harlot series on YouTube. You can also refresh your memory on the meaning of the mezuzah with our "More Than" YouTube videos. We'll cover a few basics here to tie it together.   “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me…”   Yeshua standing at the door knocking is a huge hint, especially on the heels of John's sobering prophecies of the mark of the beast in Revelation. If we can't see the link to the world commercial system as “Babylon” in Revelation, we're not trying very hard. Revelation begins with memos to the seven assemblies emphasizing their need to “overcome” the tribulations John is about to describe,   • “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me. He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” (Re 3:14-21)   We can conclude that how to overcome is described in Revelation, but we can also conclude that an ignorance of the Torah will make our understanding only partial. Revelation is written as an incredibly intricate re-telling of the Torah portions. Without an understanding of those Torah portions, it will be difficult to be identified as one of those who overcome when they “keep the testimony of Yeshua and the commandments of God.”   If Yeshua knocks on the door of one of these potential overcomers, he knocks on a door that is marked by a mezuzah, which contains summaries of the commandments. To pull in the themes of our Salt Covenant study over the last several weeks, a mezuzah is a sign that those inside the house know to be salty within, tenderly and joyfully salting their commandment-keeping. Because they are pliable to the work of the Ruach HaKodesh within the house, they are ready to meet the challenges of the Beast outside the house.   The mezuzah is their reminder that they've committed their coming and going, especially their work and business dealings, to preserving their covenant with the Father with salt, for savory salt is our faith, the tenderness we have toward His Word. It is our desire to draw close to Him through our sacrifices, not begrudgingly or to be admired by others, but to give glory to the Father. Yeshua reminds us that he also wants to draw near to our salty selves, so he stands at the door and knocks.   Just imagine that the mezuzah on your door was Yeshua standing there each day inquiring if he may accompany you in your coming and going.   Because he is. The custom is to touch one's fingers to the mezuzah and kiss the fingers. It demonstrates affection and tenderness toward the Shma and other scriptures in the mezuzah, which remind us in our coming and going Who the only Source of wealth is. The name Shaddai is inscribed on mezuzot, which is the name describing His attribute of nourishment and supply.   By touching the mezuzah, we also are reminded like the Israelites in Deuteronomy Eight: “Otherwise, you may say in your heart, ‘My power and the strength of my hand made me this wealth.' But you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who is giving you power to make wealth, that He may confirm His covenant which He swore to your fathers...”   The mezuzah on the door marks the boundary between what happens when we go into the world and how we are inside our homes. If we are at war inside our homes, then how will we war against the principalities and powers outside our homes? The shin on the tefillin reminds the person Who opens the Heavenly windows to drip down zuzim, or coins, transactions, in our lives. Zuz is found in the word mezuzah, but the letter shin is found on both the mezuzah and the prayer tefillin.   Because they are worn in prayer, it helps one to adjust those trade prayers according to Yeshua's model…daily bread…forgiveness…holiness…His will and glory on earth…protection from temptation to sin. Ever notice how many famous actors, musicians, and sports stars end up unhappy, addicted, disconnected from the real world, and just plain weird? We are not spiritually wired to receive the glory of Heaven, only to reflect the glory of Heaven outward with salt. Of course they get weird and depressed!   Our labor and business dealings outside the home must be salted and lit from within first. We must extend ourselves from within, or it will eventually be evident to the world that we did not exert ourselves according to our wealth of salvation and light.nIt is thought that the marks of tzaraat (leprosy) that appeared in a home were a result of greed and stinginess. When the priests removed everything inside to the outside to quarantine and scrape the stones, everyone would see the wealth concealed inside, especially if they'd pretended not to have enough to help the needy brother. The “best third” is where the mezuzah is placed on a door, the upper third, like an upper room. The mezuzah marks the right hand frame of the door about 2/3 of the way up: “Mezuzah guards the Covenant, and so observing the mitzvah of mezuzah leads a person to truth and faith, the faith which is absolutely necessary when conducting business.”    “And I will bring the third part through the fire, Refine them as silver is refined, And test them as gold is tested. They will call on My name, And I will answer them; I will say, ‘They are My people,' And they will say, ‘The LORD is my God.'” (Zec 13:9)   Yeshua invokes this prophecy in Zechariah when he warns the Laodiceans in Revelation Three that he is standing at the door knocking: “Because you say, “I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,” and you do not know that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked, I advise you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich…”   This is where we see another connection to the mezuzah. Zechariah prophesies of the “third part.” This is thought to be the remnant that will come through the tribulation refined by fire instead of destroyed by it. They have not succumbed to the Beast's commercial activity, buying and selling excessively or on Shabbat (see CG Workbook Four or Workbook Two). Traditionally, the mezuzah is affixed at a pointing on the right side of the door 2/3 of the way up the door. To relate the thirds, the mezuzah is like the principle of the “upper room” we've studied over the last several weeks.    Ancient Israelite houses typically had two levels, a ground level where beasts were stabled and practical household work such as cooking and weaving took place, but the family quarters were on the second floor. An extra upper room had to be built either on the second floor or atop the family quarters, making it an upper third. More simply, an upper room was where the family made space for visitors, a space that wasn't there, yet they created the space through hospitality.   Those upper rooms in Scripture were places associated with hospitality toward the righteous visitor as well as resurrection from the dead, like the stories of Elijah, Elisha, Dorcas, and Eutychus. A mezuzah reminds us not to neglect making those spaces of hospitality for the righteous visitor, who represents hospitality toward Yeshua and the Living Word. Yeshua's noisy knocking on the door is a daily reminder that when we make an “upper room” of hospitality, then we are actually tapping into the Garden of Eden. The resurrections in the upper rooms of Scripture show us this.    On the mezuzah is either the Name Shaddai, or it is in the shorthand of the first Hebrew letter shin. Not so coincidentally, the tefillin that are placed on an Israelite male's forehead and arm are also marked with a shin (see above). The mezuzah and tefillin remind each day:   • Hear, O Israel! The LORD our God, the LORD is one! And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart; and you shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. And you shall bind them as a sign on your hand and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. And you shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. (Dt 6:4-9)    Deuteronomy 8:11-19 reminds Israel not to be deceived when they become comfortable and prosperous in the Land, for their wealth will deceive them into thinking they earned it with their own hand. Remember the gumballs?   The tefillin on the hand and arm are a reminder that it is YHVH alone who gives the power to acquire wealth. Likewise, the mezuzah is marked with a shin for Shaddai, the One who provides sustenance, nourishment to Israel. Strangely, the shin is made of three Hebrew letters vav joined at the bottom. The gematria value of vav is six. 666.    Whaaaaat? Yes, it's the mark of the beast. But that's not the whole story. The mezuzah and tefillin are NOT the mark of the beast. The mark of the beast is when you get very close to being a salt covenant household or person, yet you have something lacking. Salt. Your daily work is not to acquire the wealth of the Kingdom to the glory of the Father, which can only be done through the power of the Ruach HaKodesh moving through the Word in you. The mark of the beast is when our daily work is to acquire the object of desire for our own sake. We can hear the disingenuous, unsalty believer when he says, “If God will just let me win the lottery, I'll build orphanages and feed the poor all over the world.”   And he probably will. But he will do it only in order to feed his own desires first. He's not really seeking first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. He's pursuing his own kingdom, offering God a deal that the Kingdom of Heaven will benefit from the scraps. Such a person will not give commensurately with his newfound wealth, for he is stingy at heart. Unsavory salt. Tepid. Lukewarm. Blechhhh!   The secret of the 666 is that it is only the letter of the Torah without the Ruach. The shin is like a menorah when the backlight of the Ruach shines through it (again, see Workbooks 2 & 4). Remember last week's lesson on the gumball machine? It was what you couldn't see that had to occur before what you could see. The Ruach precedes the letter of the Torah. Together, with the spiritual backlight through the literal three vavs, it yields seven, the seven- branched menorah. One tefillin has three vavs, but its mate has four! 3 + 4 = 7. Compare to the above: To be unsalty is 666. To be salty is to shine the seven spirits of Adonai described in Isaiah and Revelation:     •  wisdom   •  understanding   •  counsel   •  Spirit of Adonai   •  power   •  knowledge   •  reverence    Yeshua, the Living Word, is the doorkeeper of the overcoming household. We never want to reduce him to someone there to reward us with wealth. The word mezuzah comes from a Hebrew word meaning movement, going back and forth. The historical zuz was a coin, about a day's sustenance for one adult:   • Weight: About 4.26 grams (0.137 troy ounces) of silver. • Value: Historically equivalent to a day's wage or a portion of food/clothing, (e.g., 200 zuz was a year's support).  • Modern value would be about $20.   "Give us today our daily bread." Not the lottery.   Not so coincidentally, a mezuzah means more than movement. It is rooted as well in the movement of a beast: What starts out as a beautiful creation of spirit (upper room), soul and body (lower rooms), can degenerate into the mark of the beast. Instead of letting the Ruach drip into our lower rooms of work and family, the upper room is sealed off because of our stinginess and greed. Esau and Jacob had very different motives in asking for blessings. We can become unsavory, relentless hunters like Esau, the Red One, nicknamed Edom because he was red and hairy all over like a beast, a man of the field who loved hunting. We don't want to become marked by the Red One, never satisfied, even on Shabbat.   “…and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast or the number of his name.” (Re 13:17)   Nehemiah's struggles with those returning to rebuild Jerusalem and the Temple, especially in their continued buying and selling on Shabbat, are the reference point. He eventually had to order the gates of Jerusalem shut and locked to prevent the vendors from coming in with their goods. How glorious will it be when the gates no longer need to be shut, for no one will even entertain the idea of disobeying the King of King's command to rest and be with Him in Jerusalem on Shabbat.   Knock, knock.   In short, the mark of the beast is on one who buys and sells on Shabbat. Because there is no trust in Adonai to provide the many things we crave, we continue to work on His holy day. Someone who believes in God may have salt, but it is not savory. One who believes in God enough to do what He says is savory salt. Salt allows us to draw near the upper room of the Garden. I'm sure Yeshua is having wonderful conversations with the righteous souls of those who just didn't understand Shabbat, but they were faithful in what they knew. They are learning while they wait, not rebelling.   Ezekiel describes what went wrong in the “upper room” of the Garden of Eden, a hospitable place for those who want to draw near to the voice of Elohim, but a place from which rebels are purged. The “trader” was cast out of the heavenly fiery stones and tossed into the lower realms of strange, profane fire, that is, fire used by those estranged from the upper room fires of the Ruach above:   You were in Eden, the garden of God; Every precious stone was your covering: The sardius, topaz, and diamond, beryl, onyx, and jasper, Sapphire, turquoise, and emerald with gold. The workmanship of your timbrels and pipes Was prepared for you on the day you were created. You were the anointed cherub who covers; I established you; You were on the holy mountain of God; You walked back and forth in the midst of fiery stones. You were perfect in your ways from the day you were created, Till iniquity was found in you. By the abundance of your trading You became filled with violence within, and you sinned; Therefore I cast you as a profane thing out of the mountain of God; And I destroyed you, O covering cherub, from the midst of the fiery stones. (Eze 28:13-16; 18)   Ezekiel 28 drops a hint to where we should be vigilant: “By the abundance of your trading [H7404 rekula] you became filled with violence within, and you sinned...”   ????? rawkal' [H7402] to travel for trading   Our trade is part of work for our living, yet, the abundance is the danger zone. If our inner fire craves more wealth than we are willing to give back to Heaven commensurately, our going back and forth, zuzing about, to trade our time and effort for goods, power, and esteem becomes idolatry. In Hebrew, moving back and forth is zuz [zuz is also a coin], the root of mezuzah. The mezuzah marks the door where we travel back and forth each day to obtain our portion of wealth.   When our pursuit of wages and wealth pushes the testimony of Yeshua and the commandments of God beneath our feet instead of allowing them to drip daily from the upper room of the resurrection Ruach that raised Messiah from the dead, we sin. Our house's upper room should be designed to drip to lower floors of daily living, or we become unsavory salt.   We trade our precious lives, our time, our effort, to accumulate an abundance of things, not necessarily money, but what money will purchase: entertainment, security, comfort, esteem, power, knowledge, appeasement, etc. These things deceive us into believing they will bring joy and peace, but we know it's a lie because they never do. They are simply offered to the strange, consuming fire of the soul, but are not refinement of the spirit, which is everlasting peace and joy. It brings savory salt, light, and contentment from within.    The ancient investment advice is:   • Invest 1/3 of your income in tangible property such as real estate, durable goods, secure long-term investments  • Invest 1/3 in your daily labor, your paycheck, investments that provide a faster return, a little riskier, easily liquidated • Invest 1/3 above the mezuzah in the Kingdom of Heaven by lending to the poor, giving to needy, investing time in spiritual causes along with Torah study, prayer, service, discussing Scripture with others, etc. Even kindness is an investment!   We should not become “stingy” with Heavenly principles in the world of work, which would reflect a home's lower rooms sealed off from the upper room. The upper room should drip the testimony of Yeshua and the noisy commandments of God through the power of the resurrection Ruach. It leaks into the lower rooms of family and work!   The leaky roof is what we need to carry into the world of work and business as well as our relationships. An outwardly successful business producing wealth that can only be spent before the resurrection of the dead is not successful at all.    Preparation in the home under the disciplines of the Ruach HaKodesh will be evident in the place of business, not as a pile of 666 cash, but as peace in drawing near the Father, salt. The physical work is simply a means of building the Kingdom instead of demanding that the Father bless our work to build our own kingdoms of security, esteem, attention, comfort, intellectual stimulation, etc. Whether we have little or many zuzim, all we need to remember is that we must give commensurately with the wealth the Father drips down upon us.    If we can be responsible even with earthly money, which has no righteousness within itself, then we can be responsible with Heavenly riches.   If we can't be trusted to give commensurately with our wealth when there is no Temple service, and much freedom is granted in when and how much we give, then how can the Father trust us with His riches when the Temple on “the mountain of God” descends? The Temple services and the Land of Israel are places of extreme exactness in managing work and wealth.   Manage earthly zuzim faithfully, and we will inherit the Heavenly riches to manage.    One of my favorite movies is about a Quaker family, from the book Friendly Persuasion. One of the funniest lines is, “Friend, thee's got a squeaky door upstairs.”    Friend, thee's got a squeaky door downstairs, too. Yeshua is knocking, reminding, inquiring, requesting if we will open to his voice. It is the same voice of Elohim that walked and talked in the Garden, an upper room.   When we open our doors to him, we release the water of the Word from our upper rooms and let it fill our homes, workplaces, and relationships. If we move about, may we zuz for the glory of the Father.    Please SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter to get new teachings.

Anthony Metivier's Magnetic Memory Method Podcast
A Thriller That Teaches Memory: The Science Behind Vitamin X

Anthony Metivier's Magnetic Memory Method Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 28, 2025 55:15


Imagine for a second that Eckhart Tolle wasn't a spiritual teacher, but a deep cover operative with a gun to his head. And just for a second, pretend that Tolle’s Power of Now wasn't a way to find peace, but a survival mechanism used to slow down time when your reality is collapsing. And your memory has been utterly destroyed by forces beyond your control. Until a good friend helps you rebuild it from the ground up. These are the exact feelings and sense of positive transformation I tried to capture in a project I believe is critical for future autodidacts, polymaths and traditional learners: Vitamin X, a novel in which the world’s only blind memory champion helps a detective use memory techniques and eventually achieve enlightenment. It’s also a story about accomplishing big goals, even in a fast-paced and incredibly challenging world. In the Magnetic Memory Method community at large, we talk a lot about the habits of geniuses like Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson. We obsess over their reading lists and their daily routines because we want that same level of clarity and intellectual power. But there's a trap in studying genius that too many people fall into: Passivity. And helping people escape passive learning is one of several reasons I’ve studied the science behind a variety of fictional learning projects where stories have been tested as agents of change. Ready to learn more about Vitamin X and the various scientific findings I’ve uncovered in order to better help you learn? Let’s dive in! Defeating the Many Traps of Passive Learning We can read about how Lincoln sharpened his axe for hours before trying to cut down a single tree. And that's great. But something's still not quite right. To this day, tons of people nod their heads at that famous old story about Lincoln. Yet, they still never sharpen their own axes, let alone swing them. Likewise, people email me every day regarding something I've taught about focus, concentration or a particular mnemonic device. They know the techniques work, including under extreme pressure. But their minds still fracture the instant they're faced with distraction. As a result, they never wind up getting the memory improvement results I know they can achieve. So, as happy as I am with all the help my books like The Victorious Mind and SMARTER have helped create in this world, I’m fairly confident that those titles will be my final memory improvement textbooks. Instead, I am now focused on creating what you might call learning simulations. Enter Vitamin X, the Memory Detective Series & Teaching Through Immersion Because here's the thing: If I really want to teach you how to become a polymath, I can't just carry on producing yet another list of tips. I have to drop you into scenarios where you actually feel what it's like to use memory techniques. That's why I started the Memory Detective initiative. It began with a novel called Flyboy. It’s been well-received and now part two is out. And it’s as close to Eckhart Tolle meeting a Spy Thriller on LSD as I could possibly make it. Why? To teach through immersion. Except, it's not really about LSD. No, the second Memory Detective novel centers around a substance called Vitamin X. On the surface, it's a thriller about a detective named David Williams going deep undercover. In actuality, it's a cognitive training protocol disguised as a novel. But one built on a body of research that shows stories can change what people remember, believe, and do. And that's both the opportunity and the danger. To give you the memory science and learning research in one sentence: Stories are a delivery system. We see this delivery system at work in the massive success of Olly Richards’ StoryLearning books for language learners. Richards built his empire on the same mechanism Pimsleur utilized to great effect long before their famous audio recordings became the industry standard: using narrative to make raw data stick. However, a quick distinction is necessary. In the memory world, we often talk about the Story Method. This approach involves linking disparate pieces of information together in a chain using a simple narrative vignette (e.g., a giant cat eating a toaster to remember a grocery list). That is a powerful mnemonic tool, and you will see Detective Williams use short vignettes in the Memory Detective series. But Vitamin X is what I call ‘Magnetic Fiction.’ It's not a vignette. It's a macro-narrative designed to carry the weight of many memory techniques itself. It simulates the pressure required to forge the skill, showing you how and why to use the story method within a larger, immersive context. So with that in mind, let's unpack the topic of fiction and teaching a bit further. That way, you'll know more of what I have in mind for my readers. And perhaps you'll become interested in some memory science experiments I plan to run in the near future. Illustration of “Cafe Mnemonic,” a fun memory training location the Memory Detective David Williams wants to establish once he has enough funds. Fiction as a Teaching Technology: What the Research Says This intersection of story and memory isn't new territory for me. Long before I gave my popular TEDx Talk on memory or helped thousands of people through the Magnetic Memory Method Masterclass, live workshops and my books, I served as a Mercator award-winning Film Studies professor. In this role, I often analyzed and published material regarding how narratives shape our cognition. Actually, my research into the persuasion of memory goes back to my scholarly contribution to the anthology The Theme of Cultural Adaptation in American History, Literature and Film. In my chapter, “Cryptomnesia or Cryptomancy? Subconscious Adaptations of 9/11,” I examined specifically how cultural narratives influence memory formation, forgetting, and the subconscious acceptance of information. That academic background drives the thinking and the learning protocols baked into Vitamin X. As does the work of researchers who have studied narrative influence for decades. Throughout their scientific findings, one idea keeps reappearing in different forms: When a story pulls you in, you experience some kind of “transportation.” It can be that you find yourself deeply immersed in the life of a character. Or you find your palms sweating as your brain tricks you into believing you're undergoing some kind of existential threat. When such experiences happen, you stop processing information like you would an argument through critical thinking. Instead, you start processing the information in the story almost as if they were really happening. As a result, these kinds of transportation can change beliefs and intentions, sometimes without the reader noticing the change happening. That's why fiction has been used for: teaching therapy religion civic formation advertising propaganda Even many national anthems contain stories that create change, something I experienced recently when I became an Australian citizen. As I was telling John Michael Greer during our latest podcast recording, I impulsively took both the atheist and the religious oath and sang the anthem at the ceremony. All of these pieces contain stories and those stories changed how I think, feel and process the world. Another way of looking at story is summed up in this simple statement: All stories have the same basic mechanism. But many stories have wildly different ethics. My ethics: Teach memory improvement methods robustly. Protect the tradition. And help people think for themselves using the best available critical thinking tools. And story is one of them. 6 Key Research Insights on Educational Fiction Now, when it comes to the research that shows just how powerful story is, we can break it down into buckets. Some of the main categories of research on fiction for pedagogy include: 1) Narrative transportation and persuasion As these researchers explain in The Role of Transportation in the Persuasiveness of Public Narratives, transportation describes how absorbed a reader becomes in a story. Psychologists use transportation models to show how story immersion drives belief change. It works because vivid imagery paired with emotion and focused attention make story-consistent ideas easier to accept. This study of how narratives were used in helping people improve their health support the basic point: Narratives produce average shifts in attitudes, beliefs, intentions, and sometimes behavior. Of course, the exact effects vary by topic and the design of the scientific study in question. But the point remains that fiction doesn't merely entertain. It can also train and persuade. 2) Entertainment-Education (EE) EE involves deliberately embedding education into popular media, often with pro-social aims. In another health-based study, researchers found that EE can influence knowledge, attitudes, intentions, behavior, and self-efficacy. Researchers in Brazil have also used large-scale observational work on soap operas and social outcomes (like fertility). As this study demonstrates, mass narrative exposure can shape real-world behavior at scale within a population. Stories can alter norms, not just transfer facts from one mind to another. You’ll encounter this theme throughout Vitamin X, especially when Detective Williams tangles with protestors who hold beliefs he does not share, but seem to be taking over the world. 3) Narrative vs expository learning (a key warning) Here's the part most “educational fiction” ignores: Informative narratives often increase interest, but they don't automatically improve comprehension. As this study found, entertainment can actually cause readers to overestimate how well they understood the material. This is why “edutainment” often produces big problems: You can wind up feeling smarter because you enjoyed an experience. But just because you feel that way doesn't mean you gain a skill you can reliably use. That’s why I have some suggestions for you below about how to make sure Vitamin X actually helps you learn to use memory techniques better. 4) Seductive details (another warning) There's also the problem of effects created by what scientists call seductive details. Unlike the “luminous details” I discussed with Brad Kelly on his Madness and Method podcast, seductive details are interesting but irrelevant material. They typically distract attention and reduce learning of what actually matters. As a result, these details divert attention through interference and by adding working memory demands. The research I’ve read suggests that when story authors don't engineer their work with learning targets in mind, their efforts backfire. What was intended to help learners actually becomes a sabotage device. I've done my best to avoid sabotaging my own pedagogical efforts in the Memory Detective stories so far. That's why they include study guides and simulations of using the Memory Palace technique, linking and number mnemonics like the Major System. In the series finale, which is just entering the third draft now, the 00-99 PAO and Giordano Bruno's Statue technique are the learning targets I’ve set up for you. They are much harder, and that’s why even though there are inevitable seductive details throughout the Memory Detective series, the focus on memory techniques gets increasingly more advanced. My hope is that your focus and attention will be sharpened as a result. 5) Learning misinformation from fiction (the dark side) People don't just learn from fiction. They learn false facts from fiction too. In this study, researchers found that participants often treated story-embedded misinformation as if it were true knowledge. This is one reason using narrative as a teaching tool is so ethically loaded. It can bypass the mental posture we use for skepticism. 6) Narrative “correctives” (using story against misinformation) The good news is that narratives can also reduce misbelief. This study on “narrative correctives” found that stories can sometimes decrease false beliefs and misinformed intentions, though results are mixed. The key point is that story itself is neither “good” or “bad.” It's a tool for leverage, and this is one of the major themes I built into Vitamin X. My key concern is that people would confuse me with any of my characters. Rather, I was trying to create a portrait of our perilous world where many conflicts unfold every day. Some people use tools for bad, others for good, and even that binary can be difficult for people to agree upon. Pros & Cons of Teaching with Fiction Let’s start with the pros. Attention and completion: A good story can keep people engaged, which is a prerequisite for any learning to occur. The transportation model I cited above helps explain why. The Positive Side of Escapism Entering a simulation also creates escapism that is actually valuable. This is because fiction gives you “experience” without real-world consequences when it comes to facing judgment, ethics, identity, and pressure-handling. This is one reason why story has always been used for moral education, not just entertainment. However, I’ve also used story in my Memory Detective games, such as “The Velo Gang Murders.” Just because story was involved did not mean people did not face judgement. But it was lower than my experiments with “Magnetic Variety,” a non-narrative game I’ll be releasing in the future. Lower Reactance Stories can reduce counterarguing compared with overt persuasion, which can be useful for resistant audiences. In other words, you’re on your own in the narrative world. Worst case scenario, you’ll have a bone to pick with the author. This happened to me the other day when someone emailed to “complain” about how I sometimes discuss Sherlock Holmes. Fortunately, the exchange turned into a good-hearted debate, something I attribute to having story as the core foundation of our exchange. Compare this to Reddit discussions like this one, where discussing aspects of the techniques in a mostly abstract way leads to ad hominem attacks. Now for the cons: Propaganda Risk The same reduction in counterarguing and squabbling with groups that you experience when reading stories is exactly what makes narratives useful for manipulation. When you’re not discussing what you’re reading with others, you can wind up ruminating on certain ideas. This can lead to negative outcomes where people not only believe incorrect things. They sometimes act out negatively in the world. The Illusion of Understanding Informative narratives can produce high interest but weaker comprehension and inflated metacomprehension. I’ve certainly had this myself, thinking I understand various points in logic after reading Alice in Wonderland. In reality, I still needed to do a lot more study. And still need more. In fact, “understanding” is not a destination so much as it is a process. Misinformation Uptake People sometimes acquire false beliefs from stories and struggle to discount fiction as a source. We see this often in religion due to implicit memory. Darrel Ray has shown how this happens extensively in his book, The God Virus: How Religion Infects Our Lives and Culture. His book helped explain something that happened to me after I first started memorizing Sanskrit phrases and feeling the benefits of long-form meditation. For a brief period, implicit memory and the primacy effect made me start to consider that the religion I’d grown up with was in fact true and real. Luckily, I shook that temporary effect. But many others aren’t quite so lucky. And in case it isn’t obvious, I’ll point out that the Bible is not only packed with stories. Some of those stories contain mnemonic properties, something Eran Katz pointed out in his excellent book, Where Did Noah Park the Ark? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhQlcMHhF3w The “Reefer Madness” Problem While working on Vitamin X, I thought often about Reefer Madness. In case you haven’t seen it, Reefer Madness began as an “educational” morality tale about cannabis. It's now famous largely because it's an over-the-top artifact of moral panic, an example of how fear-based fiction can be used to shape public belief under the guise of protection. I don’t want to make that mistake in my Memory Detective series. But there is a relationship because Vitamin X does tackle nootropics, a realm of substances for memory I am asked to comment on frequently. In this case, I'm not trying to protect people from nootropics, per se. But as I have regularly talked about over the years, tackling issues like brain fog by taking memory supplements or vitamins for memory is fraught with danger. And since fiction is one of the most efficient way to smuggle ideas past the mind's filters, I am trying to raise some critical thinking around supplementation for memory. But to do it in a way that's educational without trying to exploit anyone. I did my best to create the story so that you wind up thinking for yourself. What I'm doing differently with Vitamin X & the Memory Detective Series I'm not pretending fiction automatically teaches. I'm treating fiction as a delivery system for how various mnemonic methods work and as a kind of cheerleading mechanism that encourages you to engage in proper, deliberate practice. Practice of what? 1) Concentration meditation. Throughout the story, Detective Williams struggles to learn and embrace the memory-based meditation methods of his mentor, Jerome. You get to learn more about these as you read the story. 2) Memory Palaces as anchors for sanity, not party tricks. In the library sequence, Williams tries to launch a mnemonic “boomerang” into a Memory Palace while hallucinatory imagery floods the environment. Taking influence from the ancient mnemonist, Hugh of St. Victor, Noah's Ark becomes a mnemonic structure. Mnemonic images surge and help Detective Williams combat his PTSD. To make this concrete, I've utilized the illustrations within the book itself. Just as the ancients used paintings and architectural drawings to encode knowledge, the artwork in Vitamin X isn’t just decoration. During the live bootcamp I’m running to celebrate the launch, I show you how to treat the illustrations as ‘Painting Memory Palaces.’ This effectively turns the book in your hands into a functioning mnemonic device, allowing you to practice the method of loci on the page before you even step out into the real world. Then there’s the self-help element, which takes the form of how memory work can help restore sanity. A PTSD theme runs throughout the Memory Detective series for two deliberate reasons. First, Detective Williams is partly based on Nic Castle. He's a former police officer who found symptom relief for his PTSD from using memory techniques. He shared his story on this episode of the Magnetic Memory Method Podcast years ago. Second, Nic's anecdotal experience is backed up by research. And even if you don't have PTSD, the modern world is attacking many of us in ways that clearly create similar symptom-like issues far worse than the digital amnesia I've been warning about for years. We get mentally hijacked by feeds, anxiety loops, and synthetic urgency. We lose our grip on reality and wonder why we can't remember what we read five minutes ago. That's just one more reason I made memory techniques function as reality-tests inside Vitamin X. 3) The critical safeguard: I explicitly separate fiction from technique. In Flyboy's afterword, I put it plainly: The plot is fictional, but the memory techniques are real. And because they're real, they require study and practice. I believe this boundary matters because research shows how easily readers absorb false “facts” from fiction. 4) To help you practice, I included a study guide. At the end of both Flyboy and Vitamin X, there are study guides. In Vitamin X, you'll find a concrete method for creating a Mnemonic Calendar. This is not the world's most perfect memory technique. But it's helpful and a bit more advanced than a technique I learned from Jim Samuels many years ago. In his version, he had his clients divide the days of the week into a Memory Palace. For his senior citizens in particular, he had them divide the kitchen. So if they had to take a particular pill on Monday, they would imagine the pill as a giant moon in the sink. Using the method of loci, this location would always serve as their mnemonic station for Monday. In Vitamin X, the detective uses a number-shape system. Either way, these kinds of techniques for remembering schedules are the antidote to the “illusion of understanding” problem, provided that you put them to use. They can be very difficult to understand if you don't. Why My Magnetic Fiction Solves the “Hobbyist” Problem A lot of memory training fails for one reason: People treat it as a hobby. They “learn” techniques the way people “learn” guitar: By watching a few videos and buying a book. While the study material sits on a shelf or lost in a hard drive, the consumer winds up never rehearsing. Never putting any skill to the test. And as a result, never enjoying integration with the techniques. What fiction can do is create: emotional stakes situational context identity consistency (“this is what I do now”) and enough momentum to carry you into real practice That's the point of the simulation. You're not just reading about a detective and his mentor using Memory Palaces and other memory techniques. You're watching what happens when a mind uses a Memory Palace to stay oriented. And you can feel that urgency in your own nervous system while you read. That's the “cognitive gym” effect, I'm going for. It's also why I love this note from Andy, because it highlights the exact design target I'm going for: “I finished Flyboy last night. Great book! I thought it was eminently creative, working the memory lessons into a surprisingly intricate and entertaining crime mystery. Well done!” Or as the real-life Sherlock Holmes Ben Cardall put it the Memory Detective stories are: …rare pieces of fiction that encourages reflection in the reader. You don’t just get the drama, the tension and the excitement from the exploits of its characters. You also get a look at your own capabilities as though Anthony is able to make you hold a mirror up to yourself and think ‘what else am I capable of’? A Practical Way to Read These Novels for Memory Training If you want the benefits without the traps we've discussed today: Read Vitamin X for immersion first (let transportation do its job). Then read it again with a simple study goal. This re-reading strategy is important because study-goal framing will improve comprehension and reduce overconfidence. During this second read-through, actually use the Mnemonic Calendar. Then, test yourself by writing out what you remember from the story. If you make a mistake, don't judge yourself. Simply use analytical thinking to determine what went wrong and work out how you can improve. The Future: Learning Through Story is About to Intensify Here's the uncomfortable forecast: Even though I’m generally pro-AI for all kinds of outcomes and grateful for my discussions with Andrew Mayne about it (host of the OpenAI Podcast), AI could make the generation of personalized narratives that target your fears, identity, and desires trivial. That means there’s the risk that AI will also easily transform your beliefs. The same machinery that can create “education you can't stop reading” can also create persuasion you barely notice. Or, as Michael Connelly described in his novel, The Proving Ground, we might notice the effects of this persuasion far more than we’d like. My research on narrative persuasion and misinformation underscores why this potential outcome is not hypothetical. So the real question isn't “Should we teach with fiction?” The question is: Will we build fiction that creates personal agency… or engineer stories that steal it? My aim with Flyboy, Vitamin X and the series finale is simple and focused on optimizing your ability: to use story as a motivation engine to convert that motivation into deliberate practice to make a wide range of memory techniques feel as exciting for you as they are for me and to give your attention interesting tests in a world engineered to fragment it. If you want better memory, this is your challenge: Don't read Vitamin X for entertainment alone. Read it to see if you can hold on to reality while the world spins out of control. When you do, you'll be doing something far rarer than collecting tips. You'll be swinging the axe. A very sharp axe indeed. And best of all, your axe for learning and remembering more information at greater speed will be Magnetic.

Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast
BONUS The Operating System for Software-Native Organizations - The Five Core Principles With Vasco Duarte

Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 26, 2025 27:39


BONUS: The Operating System for Software-Native Organizations - The Five Core Principles In this BONUS episode, the final installment of our Special Xmas 2025 reflection on Software-native businesses, we explore the five fundamental principles that form the operating system for software-native organizations. Building on the previous four episodes, this conversation provides the blueprint for building organizations that can adapt at the speed of modern business demands, where the average company lifespan on the S&P 500 has dropped from 33 years in the 1960s to a projected 12 years by 2027. The Challenge of Adaptation "What we're observing in Ukraine is adaptation happening at a speed that would have been unthinkable in traditional military contexts - new drone capabilities emerge, countermeasures appear within days, and those get countered within weeks." The opening draws a powerful parallel between the rapid adaptation we're witnessing in drone warfare and the existential threats facing modern businesses. While our businesses aren't facing literal warfare, they are confronting dramatic disruption. Clayton Christensen documented this in "The Innovator's Dilemma," but what he observed in the 1970s and 80s is happening exponentially faster now, with software as the accelerant. If we can improve businesses' chances of survival even by 10-15%, we're talking about thousands of companies that could thrive instead of fail, millions of jobs preserved, and enormous value created. The central question becomes: how do you build an organization that can adapt at this speed? Principle 1: Constant Experimentation with Tight Feedback Loops "Everything becomes an experiment. Not in the sense of being reckless or uncommitted, but in being clear about what we're testing and what we expect to learn. I call this: work like a scientist: learning is the goal." Software developers have practiced this for decades through Test-Driven Development, but now this TDD mindset is becoming the ruling metaphor for managing products and entire businesses. The practice involves framing every initiative with three clear elements: the goal (what are we trying to achieve?), the action (what specific thing will we do?), and the learning (what will we measure to know if it worked?). When a client says "we need to improve our retrospectives," software-native organizations don't just implement a new format. Instead, they connect it to business value - improving the NPS score for users of a specific feature by running focused retrospectives that explicitly target user pain points and tracking both the improvements implemented and the actual NPS impact. After two weeks, you know whether it worked. The experiment mindset means you're always learning, never stuck. This is TDD applied to organizational change, and it's powerful because every process change connects directly to customer outcomes. Principle 2: Clear Connection to Business Value "Software-native organizations don't measure success by tasks completed, story points delivered, or features shipped. Or even cycle time or throughput. They measure success by business outcomes achieved." While this seems obvious, most organizations still optimize for output, not outcomes. The practice uses Impact Mapping or similar outcome-focused frameworks where every initiative answers three questions: What business behavior are we trying to change? How will we measure that change? What's the minimum software needed to create that change? A financial services client wanted to "modernize their reporting system" - a 12-month initiative with dozens of features in project terms. Reframed through a business value lens, the goal became reducing time analysts spend preparing monthly reports from 80 hours to 20 hours, measured by tracking actual analyst time, starting with automating just the three most time-consuming report components. The first delivery reduced time to 50 hours - not perfect, but 30 hours saved, with clear learning about which parts of reporting actually mattered. The organization wasn't trying to fulfill requirements; they were laser focused on the business value that actually mattered. When you're connected to business value, you can adapt. When you're committed to a feature list, you're stuck. Principle 3: Software as Value Amplifier "Software isn't just 'something we do' or a support function. Software is an amplifier of your business model. If your business model generates $X of value per customer through manual processes, software should help you generate $10X or more." Before investing in software, ask whether this can amplify your business model by 10x or more - not 10% improvement, but 10x. That's the threshold where software's unique properties (zero marginal cost, infinite scale, instant distribution) actually matter, and where the cost/value curve starts to invert. Remember: software is still the slowest and most expensive way to check if a feature would deliver value, so you better have a 10x or more expectation of return. Stripe exemplifies this principle perfectly. Before Stripe, accepting payments online required a merchant account (weeks to set up), integration with payment gateways (months of development), and PCI compliance (expensive and complex). Stripe reduced that to adding seven lines of code - not 10% easier, but 100x easier. This enabled an entire generation of internet businesses that couldn't have existed otherwise: subscription services, marketplaces, on-demand platforms. That's software as amplifier. It didn't optimize the old model; it made new models possible. If your software initiatives are about 5-10% improvements, ask yourself: is software the right medium for this problem, or should you focus where software can create genuine amplification? Principle 4: Software as Strategic Advantage "Software-native organizations use software for strategic advantage and competitive differentiation, not just optimization, automation, or cost reduction. This means treating software development as part of your very strategy, not a way to implement a strategy that is separate from the software." This concept, discussed with Tom Gilb and Simon Holzapfel on the podcast as "continuous strategy," means that instead of creating a strategy every few years and deploying it like a project, strategy and execution are continuously intertwined when it comes to software delivery. The practice involves organizing around competitive capabilities that software uniquely enables by asking: How can software 10x the value we generate right now? What can we do with software that competitors can't easily replicate? Where does software create a defensible advantage? How does our software create compounding value over time? Amazon Web Services didn't start as a product strategy but emerged from Amazon building internal capabilities to run their e-commerce platform at scale. They realized they'd built infrastructure that was extremely hard to replicate and asked: "What if we offered it to others?" AWS became Amazon's most profitable business - not because they optimized their existing retail business, but because they turned an internal capability into a strategic platform. The software wasn't supporting the strategy - the software became the strategy. Compare this to companies that use software just for cost reduction or process optimization - they're playing defense. Software-native companies use software to play offense, creating capabilities that change the competitive landscape. Continuous strategy means your software capabilities and your business strategy evolve together, in real-time, not in annual planning cycles. Principle 5: Real-Time Observability and Adaptive Systems "Software-native organizations use telemetry and real-time analytics not just to understand their software, but to understand their entire business and adapt dynamically. Observability practices from DevOps are actually ways of managing software delivery itself. We're bootstrapping our own operating system for software businesses." This principle connects back to Principle 1 but takes it to the organizational level. The practice involves building systems that constantly sense what's happening and can adapt in real-time: deploy with feature flags so you can turn capabilities on/off instantly, use A/B testing not just for UI tweaks but for business model experiments, instrument everything so you know how users actually behave, and build feedback loops that let the system respond automatically. Social media companies and algorithmic trading firms already operate this way. Instagram doesn't deploy a new feed algorithm and wait six months to see if it works - they're constantly testing variations, measuring engagement in real-time, adapting the algorithm continuously. The system is sensing and responding every second. High-frequency trading firms make thousands of micro-adjustments per day based on market signals. Imagine applying this to all businesses: a retail company that adjusts pricing, inventory, and promotions in real-time based on demand signals; a healthcare system that dynamically reallocates resources based on patient flow patterns; a logistics company whose routing algorithms adapt to traffic, weather, and delivery success rates continuously. This is the future of software-native organizations - not just fast decision-making, but systems that sense and adapt at software speed, with humans setting goals and constraints but software executing continuous optimization. We're moving from "make a decision, deploy it, wait to see results" to "deploy multiple variants, measure continuously, let the system learn." This closes the loop back to Principle 1 - everything is an experiment, but now the experiments run automatically at scale with near real-time signal collection and decision making. It's Experiments All The Way Down "We established that software has become societal infrastructure. That software is different - it's not a construction project with a fixed endpoint; it's a living capability that evolves with the business." This five-episode series has built a complete picture: Episode 1 established that software is societal infrastructure and fundamentally different from traditional construction. Episode 2 diagnosed the problem - project management thinking treats software like building a bridge, creating cascade failures throughout organizations. Episode 3 showed that solutions already exist, with organizations like Spotify, Amazon, and Etsy practicing software-native development successfully. Episode 4 exposed the organizational immune system - the four barriers preventing transformation: the project mindset, funding models, business/IT separation, and risk management theater. Today's episode provides the blueprint - the five principles forming the operating system for software-native organizations. This isn't theory. This is how software-native organizations already operate. The question isn't whether this works - we know it does. The question is: how do you get started? The Next Step In Building A Software-Native Organization "This is how transformation starts - not with grand pronouncements or massive reorganizations, but with conversations and small experiments that compound over time. Software is too important to society to keep managing it wrong." Start this week by doing two things.  First, start a conversation: pick one of these five principles - whichever resonates most with your current challenges - and share it with your team or leadership. Don't present it as "here's what we should do" but as "here's an interesting idea - what would this mean for us?" That conversation will reveal where you are, what's blocking you, and what might be possible.  Second, run one small experiment: take something you're currently doing and frame it as an experiment with a clear goal, action, and learning measure. Make it small, make it fast - one week maximum, 24 hours if you can - then stop and learn. You now have the blueprint. You understand the barriers. You've seen the alternatives. The transformation is possible, and it starts with you. Recommended Further Reading Tom Gilb and Simon Holzapfel episodes on continuous strategy  The book by Christensen, Clayton: "The Innovator's Dilemma"  The book by Gojko Adzic: Impact Mapping  Ukraine drone warfare Company lifespan statistics: Innosight research on S&P 500 turnover  Stripe's impact on internet businesses Amazon AWS origin story DevOps observability practices About Vasco Duarte Vasco Duarte is a thought leader in the Agile space, co-founder of Agile Finland, and host of the Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast, which has over 10 million downloads. Author of NoEstimates: How To Measure Project Progress Without Estimating, Vasco is a sought-after speaker and consultant helping organizations embrace Agile practices to achieve business success. You can link with Vasco Duarte on LinkedIn.

The Bible Speaks to You
338 – Don't Compare Yourself to Others

The Bible Speaks to You

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 26, 2025 8:19


338 - It's Freedom FridayHow often to you compare yourself with others? How's that workin' for you?One of the things I've really had to work at over the years is not to compare myself with others.When I've seen someone who is more successful, is smarter, stronger, better looking than me, it's easy to feel inferior to them. I've felt guilty I didn't work as hard as they did, or maybe I tried but didn't succeed like they did and it adds to the guilt of feeling I'm not good enough. And sometimes I've compared the mistakes I've made in life and the sins I've committed to what other people have done and it usually paralyzes me from going forward with my life.Comparing yourself to others is rarely a good idea and usually prevents you from making progress in your own life.There's a simple way to stop comparing yourself to others.And that's what we're talking about on this episode of Freedom Fridays.∞∞∞∞∞∞∞SHOW NOTES: Read the full transcript of this episode at thebiblespeakstoyou.com/338Text me your questions or comments.Support the showIf you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify__________________James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life. Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person) Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus) Make a donation to support the show Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you Contact James here

Slam City Amateur Hour
Compare 2 Things

Slam City Amateur Hour

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 25, 2025 57:01


Gemini Jackson and Arthur Dood playtest the card game Compare 2 Things.

Mark Levin Podcast
12/23/25 - Economic Numbers Don't Lie: Trump's Policies in Focus

Mark Levin Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2025 117:43


On Tuesday's Mark Levin Show, WREC's  Ben Ferguson fills in for Mark. President Trump is smashing economic records because of the Big, Beautiful Bill. This is the result of bold leadership—tax cuts that put money back in your pocket and tariffs that put America first. The numbers don't lie: billions of dollars have flowed into the economy since Trump took office. The media won't tell you this. They're too busy fearmongering about inflation. Yes, the price index rose 2.8 percent—big deal. Some economists warn about interest rates, but the fundamentals are strong. Growth is real, and it proves the America First agenda works—better than anything Biden could ever dream of. Compare this to Biden's disaster—his stagflation nightmare. Trump has crushed that tenfold. He's delivering prosperity while Biden would have delivered misery. The fake news media will keep lying, keep spinning, and try to scare you. But the truth is undeniable: Trump is making historic, record-breaking changes to our economy, and the American people are winning because of it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Non-Eventcast
Compare & Contrast: Modern Drafting & Revision Tools for Law Firms

Non-Eventcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2025 31:45


Summary  Tune into "Adventures in Legaltech" for an engaging talk with Caspar Roxburgh, GM of Draftable. Discover how to tackle the infamous Word doc track changes mishap, get insights on law firm tech overload solutions, and explore fresh paths in legal technology innovation.

In The Loop
How Does CJ Stroud Compare To Other NFL QBs Right Now?

In The Loop

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2025 14:31


Paul Gallant & John Lopez discuss where Stroud is as a quarterback compared to other NFL QBs.

In The Loop
HR 2 - Around the NFL + How Does CJ Stroud Compare To Other NFL QBs Right Now? + What's Poppin: Christmas Edition

In The Loop

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2025 44:10


Paul Gallant & John Lopez look at the latest NFL news in Around the NFL, including Phillip Rivers doing good against the 49ers. Plus, the guys discuss where Stroud is as a quarterback compared to other NFL QBs. And then, they do a fun, Chrtistmas Edition over movies and music in What's Poppin

Money Matters With Wes Moss
Making Sense Of Inflation, Employment, And Markets—With History As The Guide

Money Matters With Wes Moss

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2025 33:33


Economic data, market trends, and retirement planning topics are often discussed without sufficient historical context. In this episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd present an educational discussion that places recent economic releases and market observations within a long-term analytical framework. • Review the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) release by situating current inflation readings within more than 80 years of historical inflation data. • Examine the historical development of the Federal Reserve's 2% inflation target by comparing it with observed inflation outcomes across multiple economic periods. • Discuss how recent government shutdowns delayed scheduled economic data releases and why temporary reporting gaps can affect short-term market narratives. • Explain commonly referenced employment metrics by outlining the differences between the household survey and the establishment survey used in labor market reporting. • Evaluate the employment-to-population ratio (EPOP), including prime working-age participation, as a frequently cited measure of labor market conditions. • Illustrate how year-over-year and multi-year inflation rates can demonstrate the compounding effect of price changes on purchasing power over time. • Compare historical inflation trends with long-term S&P 500 dividend growth to provide context on income-oriented equity characteristics. • Revisit balanced 60/40 portfolio performance in historical discussions to reinforce diversification as a commonly referenced investment framework. • Place the current bull market within a broader historical context by reviewing average cycle durations and the range of outcomes observed over time. • Observe market behavior following spring volatility, including changes in sector participation within the S&P 500. • Highlight ongoing public discussion around artificial intelligence and its potential role in productivity and efficiency across multiple economic sectors. • Review publicly reported fiscal stimulus expectations, including projected changes to tax refunds in 2026 and their possible macroeconomic implications. • Consider housing and real estate themes for the coming year by outlining economic and demographic factors commonly associated with market activity. • Summarize research-based observations on retiree well-being, including written planning approaches, engagement in meaningful activities, and social connection. For listeners seeking discussion about inflation, employment data, market history, and retirement planning concepts, this episode provides structured context grounded in long-term observations. Listen to the Money Matters Podcast and subscribe to stay informed about highly searched financial topics.

More Than a Song - Discovering the Truth of Scripture Hidden in Today's Popular Christian Music
#528: "O Come, All You Unfaithful” by Sovereign Grace Music

More Than a Song - Discovering the Truth of Scripture Hidden in Today's Popular Christian Music

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2025 24:15


Send us a textWhat happens when you change one word in the title of a classic Christmas hymn? A new perspective and a fresh reason to dive into Scripture. This week's song, “O Come, All You Unfaithful” by Sovereign Grace Music, invites us to consider the people God included in the Christmas story—and how we are just like them.This song flips the script on who is invited to come and see what God has done. Instead of calling the faithful to gather in celebration, it beckons the weary, the broken, and the unfaithful—the ones who feel disqualified. That single word change in the title opens the door for us to explore the heart of God revealed in Scripture: a God who draws near to the weak and the waiting, the guilty and the hiding, and offers hope through Christ's birth.Key PointsThe opening line of this song—“O come, all you unfaithful”—offers a perspective shift worth exploring.The lyrics list characteristics that mirror real people in the Christmas narrative: Weak and unstableBarrenWaitingWeary of prayingBitter and brokenFears unspokenGuiltyHidingGod included these kinds of people in His redemption story—and He invites us too.Hosea's prophecy reminds us of God's faithfulness despite our unfaithfulness.We are unfaithful until we are redeemed by the Faithful One—Jesus.Scriptures ReferencedMatthew 1–2 and Luke 1–2 (Christmas narrative)Luke 1:5–7; 11–20 (Zechariah and Elizabeth)Luke 2:8–9; 25; 38 (Shepherds, Simeon, and Anna)Matthew 1:18–20; 24 (Joseph's obedience)James 2:5 (God chooses the poor)Hosea 2:16–20; 6:3; 6:6–7 (God's steadfast love and faithfulness)BITEs (Bible Interaction Tool Exercises)Read in context—Matthew 1–2 and Luke 1–2Read aloud—alone or with a friendShare with a friend—Share Scripture with someone over coffee and Christmas cookiesCompare and contrast—Compare and contrast God's faithfulness with the faithlessness of His people in Hosea's prophecy Remember, the people in Scripture were real—just like usAdditional ResourcesDownload the free Episode GuideLyrics - New Release TodayBible Interaction Roadmap Bible Study - videos and assignments that will equip you with habits you can use over and over in your own Bible Study - Learn MoreLearn more about my favorite Bible Study Software with a 30-day free trial and links to my favorite Bible resources - Logos Bible Software Affiliate LinkThis Week's ChallengeRead Matthew 1-2 and Luke 1-2. I suggest reading the text aloud alone or with a friend. The story is familiar, and this habit will slow you down. Download the Episode Guide for a list of the human characteristics featured in our song, and look for these characteristics in the real people featured in the Christmas narrative. Read the prophecy of Hosea and compare and contrast the faithfulness of God to the unfaithfulness of His people. ThePurchase your copy of A Seat at the Table today! Change your music. Change your life. Join my free 30-Day Music Challenge. CLICK HERE.

The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima
Lima undersold Shedeur's performance + Is it wrong to compare Sanders to Gabriel?

The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2025 13:26


Ken Carman and Anthony Lima continue to talk about Shedeur Sanders' performance in the loss to the Bills and how it should be evaluated.

The Tom Dupree Show
AI Investment Bubble or Real Opportunity? What Ford’s $19.5B Loss Teaches Retirement Investors

The Tom Dupree Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2025 44:59


Introduction Is artificial intelligence the next investment gold rush—or are we watching another government-subsidized bubble inflate before our eyes? With Ford Motor Company writing down $19.5 billion on electric vehicles and tech giants pouring hundreds of billions into AI infrastructure, investors over 50 face a critical question: how do you separate genuine opportunity from dangerous speculation? In this episode of The Tom Dupree Show, Tom Dupree, Mike Johnson, and James Dupree examine the dramatic collapse of EV investments and the explosive growth in AI and data center buildouts. Drawing on research from Dupree Financial Group’s six-person investment committee—including direct calls with data center developers—they reveal how to evaluate hot investment trends without getting burned. With 47 years of investment experience, Tom brings hard-earned skepticism to separate sustainable opportunities from the kind of government-backed disasters that just shut down Kentucky’s Blue Oval battery plant. Ford’s $19.5 Billion EV Disaster: A Cautionary Tale Kentucky’s Battery Plant Shuts Down Ford Motor Company shocked investors with a $19.5 billion write-down on its electric vehicle business, abandoning ambitious plans for full-size EVs like the Ford Lightning pickup truck. The casualty? Kentucky’s Glendale Blue Oval Plant near Elizabethtown—once promised to employ 5,000 workers—has laid off all 1,500 current employees indefinitely. “Ford takes a 19 and a half billion dollars write down on their EV business,” Mike Johnson reported. “Essentially they are getting away from full-size electric vehicles.” Tom Dupree had predicted this outcome over a year ago: “I think it might be that guy named Tom Dupree who said a year and a half ago that that thing would never happen.” Government Mandates vs. Market Demand The Blue Oval failure illustrates a critical investment principle: government subsidies create artificial markets that collapse when support ends. “All of this was coming from government mandates. This was not driven by market demand for electric vehicles,” Mike explained. “The demand was not there because the infrastructure is not there yet. It was this heavy hand of government forcing the market to accept this product that they didn’t want.” What went wrong: Political mandates drove investment, not consumer demand EV infrastructure remains inadequate for mass adoption Manufacturing costs exceeded profitable pricing When subsidies decreased, the business model collapsed Why Toyota Won and Ford Lost While Ford chased government EV subsidies, Toyota focused on hybrid technology—matching actual consumer readiness and avoiding financial catastrophe. “You know who didn’t do that? Toyota,” Mike noted. “Toyota was focusing on hybrid. That was their core focus. And so they’re not taking a 19 and a half billion dollars write down.” Investment lesson for retirees: Companies building products consumers actually want—rather than products governments mandate—create sustainable returns. From Battery Hype to AI Hype: History Repeating? The 18-Month Investment Shift “A year and a half ago it was all about batteries,” Tom observed. “Look up some of these battery stocks, James. I bet a lot of ’em are just in the doldrums.” The investment landscape shifted with stunning speed from battery plant euphoria to AI infrastructure mania. The question: is AI different, or are investors making the same mistake twice? Inside Dupree Financial Group’s Data Center Research James Dupree coordinates research for the firm’s six-person investment committee, scheduling calls with company management and conducting initial analysis. The entire committee recently participated in a research call with Applied Digital, a data center developer leasing facilities to tech giants. “We talked about Applied Digital on the last show,” James explained. “They’re the data center landlord. They build and rent out the data centers.” The Hyperscaler Spending Analysis James’s research revealed critical distinctions between sustainable AI investment and dangerous speculation. “The first thing that the guy showed us was he pulled up a list of the hyperscalers—Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, Oracle, OpenAI, all these guys,” James reported. “And he was showing their sales and then he told us how much they’re gonna spend.” James’s assessment: “Amazon good, Microsoft good, Meta okay—they’re kind of getting on that bubble where they’re spending a little bit too much. Meta does 160 billion in sales and they’re supposed to spend 70 billion,” James detailed. “And then where it really gets dicey is Oracle. They do 50 billion in sales and they’re supposed to spend 500 billion. So that’s a red alert there.” This granular analysis—comparing capital spending to revenue—separates professional investment management from amateur speculation chasing headlines. Data Centers: Real Demand or Another Subsidy Bubble? The Power Shortage Reality Unlike EVs, data centers address a genuine infrastructure shortage: 40-90 gigawatts of power capacity needed in the United States. What makes data centers potentially valuable: Legitimate power shortage driving demand Long-term triple-net leases (Applied Digital secured 15-year, $11 billion lease) Potential conversion to REITs for steady income The critical risk—chip obsolescence: “Inside that data center, you’ll literally have $3 billion in chips in that building,” Mike explained. “And right now we don’t know exactly what the useful life of those chips are. Who’s gonna take the liability if these things only have a use life of three years instead of five years?” Government Involvement: Red Flag or Validation? James reported recent news about Core Weave, Applied Digital’s anchor tenant: “Core Weave had some big news today. That stock’s up 23% on the news. The government came out and said that they would be a part of a program related to energy, so the government’s backing that company.” But Tom immediately questioned the parallel to Ford’s disaster: “I kind of have a problem with governments picking winners and losers. That’s something that the Democrats were known as doing, and now the Republicans are doing it.” Examples of government market intervention failing: MP Materials: Government backing, stock dropped from $50+ to $15 Intel: Massive subsidies, uncertain outcomes Kentucky’s Blue Oval Plant: Complete shutdown after enormous investment Tom Dupree’s Investment Skepticism: The Voice of Experience Learning from 47 Years of Market Cycles Tom’s experience provides essential counterbalance to research enthusiasm about hot new sectors. “People are suckers for deals. If they think something’s hot, they jump on it, buy into it. They don’t spend much time thinking about whether it’s feasible or not,” Tom cautioned. “Two and a half years ago people were all over the battery plant thing. It was never gonna work. It was all just hype.” Historic bubbles Tom has witnessed: Dot-com crash (2000-2002) Housing bubble (2008) Battery/EV hype (2022-2024) Potentially: AI overinvestment (2024-?) The “Bigger Money, Bigger Dummies” Principle Tom’s most provocative observation challenges assumptions about tech giant spending: “If the seven largest companies are putting all this money in it, do you think they’re gonna go to zero? No, but the bigger the money, the bigger the dummies sometimes,” Tom warned. “They follow each other. If so-and-so’s doing it, we gotta do it. That’s FOMO. They don’t wanna get left behind.” The Picks and Shovels Strategy Rather than betting on which AI platform wins, Tom advocates investing in essential infrastructure. “I think you invest in not the project itself, but in the people that surround the project—selling picks and shovels to the gold miners,” Tom explained. “Levi’s sold workwear to the gold miners and they became a much bigger company than the gold miners ever did.” Modern picks and shovels: Cooling system manufacturers (like Vertiv) Power infrastructure companies Industrial automation suppliers Data center construction firms The Investment Committee Advantage How Six Perspectives Beat One This episode revealed Dupree Financial Group’s collaborative research process—a six-person investment committee evaluating every opportunity. “What I think is really interesting about this entire conversation is the listeners have gotten a snapshot of why, how we research companies. What information comes out of research, questions asked, and then you get the snapshot of Tom shooting holes through it.” The committee process: Research coordination (James schedules calls, conducts initial analysis) Committee participation (All six members join company calls) Analytical framework (Mike examines spending ratios, cash flow) Devil’s advocate (Tom stress-tests with historical perspective) Risk-based sizing (Committee determines appropriate positions) “With any investment, you identify what the risks are,” Mike explained. “And when you identify the risks, then you can make a better decision as to, okay, does the potential reward justify those risks? That’s why these are small positions in the portfolio, but they serve a purpose in the overall grand scheme.” Market Discipline: Encouraging Signs Investors Punishing Excessive Spending Unlike past bubbles where markets rewarded unlimited capital deployment, current market behavior shows healthy skepticism. Recent examples: Meta’s stock rewarded for reducing metaverse spending Oracle’s stock punished for excessive debt-fueled AI investments Market demands cash-flow funding, not leverage “What was scary is when the market just didn’t care,” Mike noted. “That’s when you get major issues with bubbles and speculation. And now you’re starting to see some discernment there.” Warning Signs to Watch

Carefully Examining the Text

5:17 Behold, how happy is the man whom God reproves- Ps. 94:12; Prov. 3:11-12; 23:12, 23; Heb. 12:5-11; Rev. 3:19. How happy in 5:17 is the word translated blessed in Ps. 1:1.  5:18 For He inflicts pain, and gives relief- Deut. 32:39; I Sam. 2:6; Isa.19:22; 30:26; Hos. 6:1.  Job 1:21; 2:10 Each of the speakers understood the sovereignty of God in the affairs of the world.  He wounds, and His hands also heal- The friends never resort to Satan as the answer for human suffering.  5:19 From six troubles He will deliver you- The closest way to parallel a number is to give the next highest number.  Even in seven evil will not touch you- Ps. 91:10. This is a passage like Job 2:10 where the evil refers not to sin but to calamity. 5:20 In famine He will redeem you from death- Ps. 34:23; 49:8,16; 55:19; 69:19; 71:23; 119:134. The word redeem in Psalm 49:7, 7, 15. Ps. 49:15 and Ps. 103:4 speak of God redeeming the life, or soul, of the Psalmist from Sheol, the pit, or the grave. 5:21 You will hidden from the scourge of the tongue- For the tongue as a weapon- Ps. 52:2,4; 64:3. Vicious words can destroy the one they are spoken against, and undo the one who speaks them as well (Prov. 10:8, 14; 13:3; 18:7).Neither will you be afraid of violence when it comes- Ps. 91:5-6. God can protect His servants even in the midst of a severe judgment (II Peter 2:4-9).  5:22 You will laugh at famine and violence- The verb laugh is used in Ps. 2:4; 37:13; 59:8 to speak of God's reaction to the wrongdoer.Neither will you be afraid of the wild beasts- Lev. 26:4-5; Ps. 91:13; Ezek. 34:25; Hos. 2:18-20 5:23 For you will be in league with the stones of the field- Isa. 5:2; II Sam. 3:19-25 stones present difficulties for an otherwise fruitful field or vineyard.   5:24 You will know that your tent is secure- contrast this with 4:21. Compare this with 21:7. The word secure is actually the word peace which is used as a verb in 5:23.For you will visit your abode and fear no loss- Job lost his wealth in 1:13-17. Job will say that it is the children of the wicked that are safe and secure in Job 21:8-10.The word generally translated sin is used at the end of vs. 24. Sin is the idea of missing the mark (Judges 20:16) and the proper idea behind it is experiencing loss. 5:25 You will know also that your descendants will be many- These two lines are in stark contrast to 5:4-5. They are also contrary to Job's experiences as Job lost his children in 1:18-19. And your offspring as the grass of the earth- Isa. 53:10; Job 42:16; Ps. 37:16. This will ultimately be true of Job (42:13-15). 5:26 You will come to the grave in full vigor- Premature death is considered a great disaster (Job 22:16). Are the statements of Job 5:17-27 promising too much? Notice how many things said in Job 5:17-27 sound like Psalm 91 and other PsalmsJob 5:19 God will deliver him from all troubles; Ps. 34:19 Many are afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them allJob 5:19 evil will not touch you; Ps. 91:10 No evil will befall youJob 5:22, 23 not be afraid of wild beasts, beasts of field at peace; Ps. 91:13 tread upon lion, cobra, young lion, serpentJob 5:24 your tent is secure/ Ps. 91:10 no plague near your tentJob 5:26 long life Ps. 91:16 

Money Matters with Wes Moss
Roth Conversions and Withdrawal Frameworks: Retirement Income Planning

Money Matters with Wes Moss

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2025 38:02


Looking for an educational overview of today's most commonly searched retirement planning topics? In this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase provide context around retirement income planning, tax considerations, and widely referenced financial frameworks, helping listeners better understand how these concepts are typically discussed. • Review how Roth IRA conversions are generally evaluated and why converting an entire retirement account balance in a single tax year can materially affect taxable income calculations. • Explain how marginal tax brackets apply to large conversions and why simplified terms like “tax bomb” may not fully reflect how tax liability is determined. • Highlight considerations associated with forgotten or inactive 401(k) accounts and why consolidation is often discussed from an organizational or administrative perspective. • Examine how withdrawal flexibility prior to Social Security eligibility is commonly framed when discussing early-retirement income planning. • Outline factors frequently reviewed when evaluating whether life insurance coverage remains appropriate as family and financial circumstances change. • Clarify how Secure 2.0 legislation outlines limited 529 plan–to–Roth IRA rollovers, including applicable statutory rules, eligibility criteria, and contribution constraints. • Compare the traditionally cited 4% withdrawal framework with alternative retirement income scenarios that include pensions or guaranteed fixed-rate income sources. • Discuss how “dry powder” reserves are often described using bond ETFs or money market ladders within retirement planning conversations. • Evaluate the role small- and mid-capitalization stocks may play alongside large-cap equities within diversified, long-term portfolio discussions. • Reframe home value benchmarks in an inflationary environment while noting why mortgage status is often considered when assessing retirement readiness. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing discussions that explore retirement planning concepts, market context, and long-term financial considerations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Table with Anthony ONeal
America's Money Crisis: 10 Shocking Money Statistics Nobody Talks About

The Table with Anthony ONeal

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2025 23:43 Transcription Available


If you feel stuck financially—even when you're doing everything right—this video is for you. I'm breaking down the 10 harsh money realities most Americans face in 2026, and giving you the step-by-step solutions to break free.What you'll learn:Why most savings accounts are stealing your wealth (and how to fix it)The real reason you can't get ahead—even with a good jobHow to escape debt spirals, car loan traps, and “Buy Now, Pay Later” regretThe habits and strategies that actually build wealth in 2026RESOURCES & LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS VIDEO:- High-Yield Savings Account Comparison: https://www.anthonyoneal.com/savings(Compare the best high-yield savings accounts, updated weekly. No fees, FDIC insured.)- Debt Relief Resource: https://www. anthonyoneal.com/debtrelief(If you have over $20,000 in consumer debt, see if this can help you get out faster.)- Investing Platforms (Compare & Open an Account): https://www/anthonyoneal.com/invest(SoFi, Public, MooMoo—open an account, even with $0, and start building wealth.)- AI Automation Bootcamp: https://www.anthonyoneal.com/aiautomation(Learn high-income skills that pay you back in 12 months or less.)- Therapy & Mental Health Resource: https://www.anthonyoneal.com/therapy(Mental health is wealth. Find a therapist and invest in your mind.)- LLC Formation & Business Resources: https://www.anthonyoneal.com/llc(Start your side hustle the right way—protect yourself and build real wealth.)- Estate Planning (Will & Trust): https://www.anthonyoneal.com/estate(Protect your family and legacy. Don't let the government decide who gets your money.)- Life Insurance Calculator: https://www.anthonyoneal.com/ethos- Car Insurance Savings: https://www.anthonyoneal.com/carinsurance(Stop overpaying. Get real quotes in 60 seconds.)ABOUT ANTHONY ONEAL:Anthony O'Neal is a nationally bestselling author, speaker, and host of The Table with Anthony O'Neal. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance & Banking and is a professor of Consumer Economics at Virginia Union University. Since 2014, he's helped millions of people get out of debt, build wealth, and break generational poverty. His mission is to help you maximize your income, eliminate debt, and create a life of freedom and legacy.

Calming Anxiety
The Holiday Sanctuary (Day 4) Releasing the Pressure to be Perfect

Calming Anxiety

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2025 10:11


"Good enough" is not a failure. It is a freedom.Welcome to the final day of The Holiday Sanctuary. As we reach the peak of the season, it is easy to fall into the trap of "Compare and Despair." We scroll through social media seeing perfect trees, perfect dinners, and perfect families, and suddenly, our reality feels like it's lacking. We carry the weight of impossible expectations, trying to create a magic moment at the expense of our own mental health.In today's finale, Releasing the Pressure to be Perfect, we are putting those burdens down. We are choosing connection over perfection.In this session, you will experience:4-7-8 Breathing: A deep relaxation technique (often called the "natural tranquilizer" for the nervous system) to help you exhale tension and frustration.The "Heavy Baggage" Visualization: A liberating mental exercise where we identify the heavy bags we are carrying—labeled "Expectations," "Money," and "Perfection"—and physically visualize setting them down and walking away lighter.Affirmations for Acceptance: "I release the need for perfection." "I choose presence over pressure."Thank you for taking this four-day journey with me. Remember: You are enough, exactly as you are.Series Complete. If you enjoyed The Holiday Sanctuary, please subscribe to the podcast to stay grounded as we move into the New Year.

Saving Our Women inc: Doing Life With God

HomeworkWhat matters to you?Journal the decisions you make daily and how you respond to people daily.What do you belief is wrong or right?after writing or answering these things down for at least a week. Compare your journaling of your decisions and responses, with your answers of what your values and morals were.If they do not match, offer them up to the Lord and invite him in your space and ask the Holy Spirit to help you live out a life that is pleasing and acceptable to him.Read and study the full book of Daniel.

BootstrapMD - Physician Entrepreneurs Podcast
EP324 : Why Physicians Are Co-Investing in $55M Deals with a $12B Real Estate Giant

BootstrapMD - Physician Entrepreneurs Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2025 25:26


This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You're an institution. Time to invest like one. _____________  This Episode is also sponsored by Ryze Health Every minute counts in medicine—so why waste it on clunky admin work? With Ryze Health, practice management becomes effortless. Our all-in-one platform streamlines scheduling, patient communications, and insurance verification, giving you fewer no-shows, faster check-ins, and happier patients. Free yourself from paperwork and phone tag so you can focus on what truly matters: providing care. Visit http://ryzehealth.com/BootstrapMD today and see how simple running your practice can be. ______________  What if physicians could co-invest in $55M industrial parks alongside a $12B family office without $100K consultants or high-risk leverage?  In this insightful episode, Dr. Mike Woo-Ming  interviews Jonathan Spitz from Lightstone Direct, the new direct-to-investor arm of 40-year-old powerhouse Lightstone Group. Jonathan shares the firm's vertically integrated model (25K apartments, 12M sq ft industrial, 5K hotel keys), why they commit 20% of their own capital first (5-10x industry norms), and how physicians can diversify beyond stocks or DIY rentals. He breaks down direct vs. passive CRE, asset class pitfalls (office flops vs. industrial wins), and red flags like inexperienced managers or 85% debt. With examples like their Greenville industrial deal, Jonathan proves alignment and conviction drive better outcomes empowering busy doctors to build legacy wealth safely.  If you're a high-income physician eyeing real estate for tax efficiency and passive income, this is your guide to investing like institutions without the headaches. Three Actionable Takeaways:   Decide direct vs. passive: If time-strapped, skip hands-on rentals for platforms like Lightstone Direct, vet managers on track record, cycles navigated, and skin in game (aim for 20%+). Passive reduces risks like tenant concentration; focus on assets like industrial for steady returns over volatile office or retail. Qualify and evaluate: As accredited (200K/300K income or 1M net worth), request decks/PPMs/operating agreements. Ask: Debt levels? Exit strategies? Risk mitigation? Compare projected IRRs realistically—avoid 20%+ promises tied to high leverage. Prioritize alignment where sponsors invest heavily first for shared incentives. Start the process: Visit lightstonedirect.com or email jspitz@lightstonedirect.com for discovery calls. Define goals (income vs. growth, liquidity horizon). Use a special link lightstone.com/dpn for Bootstrap MD listeners. Early incentives like 6% on parked funds make starting seamless, build long-term partnerships for 3-5 year holds. About the Show: Bootstrap MD is the ultimate podcast for physician entrepreneurs looking to escape traditional healthcare and control their financial futures. Hosted by Dr. Mike Woo-Ming, a successful physician, entrepreneur, and investor, the show delivers actionable insights on starting businesses, creating passive income, and navigating healthcare entrepreneurship. Featuring interviews with industry leaders, physicians, and experts in telemedicine and digital health, it's your guide to building a profitable, fulfilling career.  Tune in weekly at  http://bootstrapmd.com   About the Guest: Jonathan Spitz is the Head of Capital Formation at Lightstone Direct, where he connects individual investors, especially physicians, to institutional-quality real estate opportunities. With over a decade of experience spanning brokerage, lending, and private equity, Jonathan has navigated multiple market cycles and capital-raising environments. He focuses on transparency, education, and aligned incentives, helping professionals understand how private real estate can diversify portfolios, reduce taxes, and build long-term wealth.   Website:  https://lp.lightstonedirect.com/dpn Email:  jspitz@lightstonedirect.com  About the Host: Dr. Mike Woo-Ming has over 20 years of experience as a physician entrepreneur. He's built and sold multiple seven-figure companies and now leads Executive Medical, a group of clinics specializing in age management and aesthetics. Through BootstrapMD, he mentors physicians in business, content creation, and autonomy. Let's Connect: www.https://www.bootstrapmd.com   Want to start a podcast? Check out the Doctor Podcast Network!

Entrepreneur Money Stories
The Year-End Reflection Framework: The Truth About How Real CEOs Grow – Ep. 253

Entrepreneur Money Stories

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2025 22:16


Most entrepreneurs skip reflection altogether. They're busy, tired, and ready for a fresh start. But if you don't pause to reflect, you repeat the same mistakes. You carry old habits into a new season. You build goals on top of unclear patterns. Reflection is where leadership starts. It's where clarity lives. It's simple, but not easy. In this episode, Danielle walks you step-by-step through the Year-End Reflection Framework built into the Kickstart system. It's the tool that helps you understand what worked, what didn't, and where you can step more fully into your CEO role next year. Your Year-End Reflection Framework: At Kickstart, reflection is built into everything we do. It's part of the Kickstart Framework, the same system Danielle uses to run her own business every single year. Review Your Revenue Start with your total revenue for the year. Compare it to last year, then review month-by-month. Ask yourself: Which months were your strongest? What contributed to that success? Which sales/marketing efforts created reliable results? During slower months, what changed? Were you consistent or did you pivot too soon? Real growth happens when you stick with what works long enough to see the results. Reflect on Profit & Net Income Profit tells the truth about your business's health—not just what came in, but what stayed. Consider: Were profit margins healthy (10–15% after payroll)? What supported profitability this year? If profits decreased, what shifted? And remember: Profit doesn't matter if it costs you your energy, well-being, or sustainability. Examine Your Expenses Look at your total expenses year-over-year and month-by-month. Ask: What purchases supported your goals? Which investments truly helped you grow? Where did spending align—or misalign—with your intentions? Was spending driven by confidence, or by fear and FOMO? Spending isn't bad. It's information. It reveals your priorities, patterns, and beliefs. Also reflect on: What purchase made you most proud? What helped you step more fully into your CEO role? 4. Evaluate Your Cash on Hand Cash isn't everything… but it is stability and choice. Review: Cash this year vs. last year Cash month-by-month Whether changes align with the season you were in (growth vs. optimization) How many months of expenses you have saved (aim for 1–3 months) If you're not there yet, start small—even $50 a week builds momentum. Cash gives you freedom to make thoughtful, empowered decisions. 5. Look at Debt & Owner's Draws This is where clarity really clicks. Debt payments and owner's draws don't show on your P&L, but they dramatically impact cash. Ask yourself: Did I pay myself consistently? Does my compensation match my effort? Did I take on or pay off debt intentionally? Your goal is balance: Pay yourself. Manage debt. Build savings. All at once, sustainably.   Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro: Why Year-End Reflection Matters & the Year-End Reflection Framework to Use (01:20) What Kickstart Clients Receive in Their Snapshot (01:53) Year-End Reflection Framework: Review Your Revenue (05:42) Year-End Reflection Framework: Reflect on Profit & Net Income (07:53) Year-End Reflection Framework: Examine Your Expenses & Spending Patterns (09:50) Promo Break: Kickstart's "Check Your Books" Service (11:02) Spending That Builds You as a CEO & Brings Joy (13:37) Why Cutting All Expenses Isn't the Answer (14:17) Year-End Reflection Framework: Evaluate Cash on Hand & Creating Stability as a CEO (18:30) Year-End Reflection Framework: Debt, Owner's Draws & Where All the Cash Really Went (20:34) Your Role as CEO: Consistency & Ownership (21:36) Outro: Like, Share and Subscribe!   Resources: Check Your Books | kickstartaccountinginc.com/checkyourbooks  CFO Services | https://kickstartaccountinginc.com/the-cfo-solution/   Book a Call with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: https://kickstartaccountinginc.com/book-a-call/    Connect with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/Kickstartaccounting YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@businessbythebooks  Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/kickstartaccountinginc  

Money Matters With Wes Moss
AI Takes Center Stage: Market Trends, Economic Signals, And The Stories Shaping Money Today

Money Matters With Wes Moss

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2025 35:51


In this episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes Moss and Connor Miller offer an educational discussion on current financial market headlines, retirement planning considerations, and developments in artificial intelligence. • Review publicly reported details of Disney's collaboration with OpenAI and discuss how large media organizations are evaluating AI-enabled content tools. • Examine Time Magazine's recognition of the collective “Architects of AI” as 2025's Persons of the Year and what that designation reflects about technology's growing prominence. Then, reflect on past Time Person of the Year selections to provide cultural and economic context across different market eras. • Discuss widely cited data on the increase in millionaire 401(k) accounts and explain how market conditions and contribution patterns can sometimes influence account balances. • Summarize the Federal Reserve's recent monetary policy decision, often described as a “hawkish cut,” including how commentators interpret interest-rate signaling. • Compare the recent performance of the Magnificent Seven stocks with the broader S&P 500 to illustrate changes in market concentration over time. • Highlight market data showing broader participation in equity returns, with a greater share of S&P 500 companies posting positive performance. • Revisit common asset allocation discussions involving balanced portfolios, including equities and fixed income, in long-term planning contexts. • Explain how short-term and long-term interest rates can respond differently to policy changes and why those distinctions are often referenced in borrowing discussions. • Review current U.S. labor market indicators—such as jobless claims, labor force participation, and wage growth—based on widely followed economic releases. • Outline health insurance marketplace open-enrollment timelines and general considerations individuals often review when evaluating coverage options. • Discuss survey-based research identifying an association between having a written retirement plan and reported retirement satisfaction, without implying causation. • Consider how economists and analysts describe AI's potential role in productivity and economic growth, acknowledging uncertainty and variability. • Preview commonly discussed themes for 2026, including historical patterns around election cycles, market volatility, and consumer spending behavior. Listen and subscribe to the Money Matters Podcast for ongoing discussions that help frame financial topics within a broader, long-term perspective.

We Don't PLAY
Pinterest Advertising Campaigns: Image, Video, Carousel, Shopping Catalog, Leads & Quiz Strategy with Favour Obasi-ike

We Don't PLAY

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 13, 2025 71:05


Pinterest Advertising Campaigns: Image, Video, Carousel, Shopping Catalog, Leads & Quiz Strategy with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.Pinterest for business advertising, emphasizing its power as a visual search engine rather than a traditional social media platform. Favour highlights that Pinterest users exhibit a higher purchasing power and are in a planning mindset, making their minimal time spent on the platform highly intentional for conversions compared to engagement-focused sites like TikTok or Facebook. Practical advice is offered on running various ad types—including image, video, carousel, catalog, and lead/quiz ads—along with technical specifications and the importance of claiming a website to utilize Pinterest's tagging system for superior analytics and targeting, such as act-alike audiences and zip code campaigns.Ultimately, we position Pinterest advertising as a valuable, data-driven strategy for businesses seeking a high return on time and investment.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Need SEO Services? 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Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Why 90 Minutes a Month on Pinterest Beats 35 Hours on TikTokIntroduction: The Hidden Power of the Internet's Digital Vision BoardWhen you think of Pinterest, what comes to mind? For many, it's a digital scrapbook for wedding ideas, home decor inspiration, and tonight's dinner recipe. But what if this familiar facade conceals one of the most misunderstood and powerful marketing engines online? Behind the vision boards and DIY projects lies a platform built not on fleeting attention, but on deliberate intention.This episode reveals five surprising truths about Pinterest that defy conventional social media wisdom and highlight its unique, untapped value for businesses and marketers.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------1. The 90-Minute Paradox: Why Less Time on Platform Means More for BusinessIt's a counter-intuitive finding that stops most marketers in their tracks: Pinterest users spend significantly less time on the platform than users of other major networks.According to recent data, the average user spends just 1 hour and 31 minutes per month on Pinterest. Compare that to the time sinks of other platforms:• TikTok: 35 hours per month• Facebook: 29 hours per month• Instagram: 15 hours per monthThis isn't a sign of low engagement; it's a signal of high-intent, purposeful activity. Breaking it down, 91 minutes a month averages to just about 3 minutes per day. Users aren't there to endlessly scroll. In those three minutes, a user is on a mission: they might spend 30 seconds looking for an idea, a minute to find the right one, and the next minute to affirm it, save it for later, or click through to act on it immediately. This focused, goal-oriented behavior means every minute is packed with commercial intent."So if you're planning on Pinterest and you're spending less than 2 hours to be on a platform that's going to give you maximum return on your time and investment, it's worth it than spend 35 hours to do the same thing..."2. The Audience Isn't Just Browsing—They're Planning and They Have Buying PowerThe fundamental difference between Pinterest and other platforms is user mindset. While other networks thrive on a culture of passive "swiping," Pinterest is the go-to destination for active "planning." Users are there with the specific intention of preparing for something—whether it's an event, a book, a wedding, a shoe, a color, or a tip—which makes them uniquely receptive to relevant brand content and advertising.This high-intent audience also has significant financial leverage:• Approximately 45% of Pinterest users have an annual household income of at least $150,000.• Their purchasing power is 5% to 38% higher than on other social platforms.This combination of forward-looking intent and disposable income creates an environment where ads are not an interruption but a welcome part of the discovery process."It tells you that Pinterest is not a place that people are going to swipe. They're going there to plan. So when they're going there to plan, they're searching with the intention of purchasing something or planning for something."3. Forget "Lookalikes," Pinterest Is About "Actalikes"Most digital advertisers are familiar with "lookalike audiences"—the targeting method used by platforms like Meta to find users who share demographic traits with an existing customer base. Pinterest offers a more powerful alternative: the "actalike audience."An actalike audience is a group of users targeted based on their active, intentional behaviors. These are users who are thinking, planning, processing, doing, and responding. Rather than targeting people who simply look like your customers, you target people who act like them.This is a critical distinction. An actalike audience is inherently composed of users with proven intent and behavioral patterns that align with conversion. It targets an active mindset, not just a passive profile, suggesting a much higher probability of a positive outcome for advertisers.4. Your Content's Lifespan: A Marathon, Not a SprintThe ephemeral nature of social media content is a constant challenge for marketers. A post that takes hours to create can disappear from feeds in a matter of hours. Pinterest operates on a completely different timeline.The lifespan of content on Pinterest presents a stark contrast to its social media counterparts:• Pinterest Pin: 3.5 to 5 months• Instagram Post: 19 to 72 hoursContent on Pinterest functions less like a fleeting post and more like a long-term asset. Each pin acts as a durable entry point to your brand, continuing to drive traffic, discovery, and conversions for months on end. This turns content creation from a short-term sprint into a sustainable, long-term investment with compounding returns, much like traditional SEO.5. The Surprising Truth About Media OwnershipOn platforms like Instagram and TikTok, you are a perpetual tenant. You build your presence on rented land, but you never truly own your content or the space it occupies. Pinterest offers a unique and powerful path to digital property ownership.When you claim your website on Pinterest, you establish 100% ownership of your media on the platform. This is made possible by the Pinterest Tag—a piece of code on your website that connects your property to the platform, tracks conversions, and solidifies your ownership. This transforms your Pinterest business account from a simple social profile into a claimed media asset.The platform even provides a powerful tool to leverage this ownership. You can connect your Instagram business account and pull the last 365 days of content directly onto Pinterest. Think about the implications: you didn't own your content on Instagram, but now you have Instagram's content building an owned asset on Pinterest, all because you've claimed your website as a digital property."You don't own 100% of your media on Instagram... with Pinterest it's a beautiful place because when you claim your Pinterest account and you claim your website on Pinterest. What you've technically done is that you've claimed a property on an asset that you don't own but now you own..."--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Conclusion: Rethinking Attention vs. IntentionFor years, the digital marketing world has been obsessed with the attention economy—a relentless race for more screen time, more views, and more hours spent scrolling. Pinterest proves that there is a more valuable currency: intention.Its true power lies not in capturing endless hours of passive attention, but in connecting with a high-value audience during their most decisive planning and purchasing moments. The platform's unique combination of high intent, powerful demographics, action-based targeting, and content longevity makes it an unparalleled tool for businesses.As you plan your next marketing strategy, ask yourself this: What could your business achieve if you focused less on the attention economy and more on the intention economy?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Odd Couple with Chris Broussard & Rob Parker
Hour 3 - Cam Newton Can't Compare to Philip Rivers

The Odd Couple with Chris Broussard & Rob Parker

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2025 38:11 Transcription Available


Rob and Kelvin explain why Cam Newton has no right to feel slighted after the Indianapolis Colts signed Philip Rivers out of retirement to be their QB1. Plus, the guys go head-to-head in this week’s edition of Teichert’s Tower of Trivia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima
David Aldridge: It's hard not to compare Cavs' start to last year's run; Signs of 'slippage' offensively

The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2025 15:08


David Aldridge ('The Athletic') joins Ken Carman and Jason Lloyd to talk about the latest on the Cleveland Cavaliers, including the team's early-season struggles and what they can do to get themselves back on track.

KNBR Podcast
12-12 Taylor Zarzour joins Papa & Silver to compare the strengths of Tony Pollard & Tyjae Spears in the Titans' run game and break down the next steps for Cam Ward to become a successful quarterback in the NFL

KNBR Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2025 16:36


Tennessee Titans play-by-play voice Taylor Zarzour joins Papa & Silver to compare the strengths of Tony Pollard & Tyjae Spears in the Titans' run game and break down the next steps for Cam Ward to become a successful quarterback in the NFLSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

KNBR Podcast
12-12 Papa & Silver Hour 4: Greg Papa makes a bold prediction and expresses his admiration for Jeffery Simmons. Taylor Zarzour joins the show to compare the strengths of Tony Pollard & Tyjae Spears in the Titans' run game and break down the next

KNBR Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2025 23:09


12-12 Papa & Silver Hour 4: Greg Papa makes a bold prediction and expresses his admiration for Jeffery Simmons. Taylor Zarzour joins the show to compare the strengths of Tony Pollard & Tyjae Spears in the Titans' run game and break down the next steps for Cam Ward to become a successful quarterback in the NFL.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Flip Empire Show
EP38: LIVE Coaching Session - Listen to Alex Analyze a Real Storage Deal From Top to Bottom with Brandon Rickman

The Flip Empire Show

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2025 45:23


Ever look at a storage deal and think "I have no clue if this is actually a good deal or a financial disaster?" You're not alone. Most investors guess, cross their fingers, and hope they didn't just overpay by six figures. In this special live coaching episode, Alex sits down with Brandon Rickman, a successful single-family investor making the jump into self-storage. You'll hear Alex analyze a real storage deal step by step, how to spot red flags, what the numbers actually mean, and how to know if a deal is worth pursuing or walking away from. This is as close as it gets to having Alex look over your shoulder while you analyze your own deal. You'll Learn How To: Tell if a storage deal is worth a deeper look in under 10 minutes Quickly estimate what a facility is really worth Understand cap rates without the confusion Compare street rates to find hidden upside Avoid overpaying for a deal that looks good on paper What You'll Learn in This Episode: [00:00] Why most investors overthink storage deals and still get them wrong [04:00] Brandon's jump from single-family into self-storage development [08:30] The one mistake that causes investors to overpay for storage facilities [12:45] How Alex quickly estimates a deal's value using simple math [18:00] Understanding cap rates without the confusion [23:30] How to compare market rates to uncover hidden upside [30:00] What makes a storage deal worth pursuing vs. walking away [38:00] Why buying on pro forma can destroy your returns [43:30] Why they're turning this into a two-part deep dive Who This Episode Is For: Investors curious about getting into self-storage but unsure how to evaluate deals Single-family investors ready to transition into long-term cash-flow assets Anyone tired of guessing and wanting real clarity on deal analysis Why You Should Listen: If you've ever felt overwhelmed by storage numbers, cap rates, or underwriting, this episode will give you clarity. You'll hear Alex break everything down in plain English using a real deal, real questions, and real coaching. No hype, just practical insight you can actually use on your next deal. Follow Alex Pardo here: Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ Follow Brandon Rickman here:  Brandon Rickman Website:https://www.theflipgenius.com/ Brandon Rickman YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrandonRickman Have conversations with at least three to give storage owners, brokers, private lenders, and equity partners through the Storage Wins Facebook group. Join for free by visiting this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/  

The Behavioral Observations Podcast with Matt Cicoria
Smarter Study Strategies Using Cover, Copy, and Compare: Session 318 with Sarah Frampton

The Behavioral Observations Podcast with Matt Cicoria

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2025 95:54


In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Sarah Frampton, who conducts research on, amongst other things, improving how we teach, learn, and organize information using behavior-analytic strategies. We explore her career journey, her research on graphic organizers and the Cover, Copy, Compare (CCC) strategy, and the broader implications for stimulus equivalence, educational technology, and effective teaching. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How Sarah's unconventional path led her from economics and psychology into Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Why note-taking and structured learning strategies, like CCC, matter for retaining and applying complex information. How stimulus equivalence principles can enhance learning beyond direct instruction. Insights from Sarah's research combining CCC with graphic organizers, including practical takeaways for educators and learners (see Frampton, Vesely and Jackson, 2025). How visual learning tools and educational technology can improve engagement and retention. Strategies for training learners to use these approaches independently and effectively. Highlights From Our Conversation: Sarah's Path Into ABA Sarah shares how a thesis requirement and a Craigslist job posting led her to ABA, including formative experiences working with Dr. Alice Shillingsburg at the Marcus Autism Center. These experiences sparked her interest in efficient, broadly applicable learning strategies. Why Note-Taking Strategies Matter We discuss the value of graphic organizers and the Cover, Copy, Compare (CCC) strategy: Graphic organizers visually display relationships between concepts. CCC is a structured, active-response method that strengthens memory, similar to flashcards. Sarah emphasizes how behavior-analytic techniques can support higher-order thinking processes often considered "cognitive." CCC and Stimulus Equivalence Sarah walks through stimulus equivalence with clear examples, showing how teaching certain relations can produce broader learning without direct instruction. She also highlights a study where CCC and graphic organizers helped learners prepare for tests—even under intentionally challenging conditions. Graphic Organizers in Action Key findings from Sarah's research: Learners who drew more structured organizers performed better. Teaching organizer use during test conditions did not hinder performance. Visualizing relationships among stimuli predicted task success. Training Learners to Use These Strategies Sarah outlines her training sequence, including pre-tests, video instruction, practice with familiar material, and application to abstract stimuli. A core goal was strategy generalization—ensuring learners could apply CCC to new material independently. Fig. 1 from Frampton, et al. (2025) Fig. 2 from Frampton, et al. (2025) Research Findings Most participants quickly mastered abstract relations and passed post-tests after brief training. Notably, all participants used the CCC strategy—some even more meticulously than required. Educational Technology, Engagement, and Mediation Participants reported the educational technology intervention was easy to use and helpful, contrasting with high dropout rates in similar studies. Sarah also describes how participants naturally used private verbal behavior, such as naming stimuli or creating stories, to aid learning. Visual Learning Tools in ABA We discuss the broader application of visual supports—graphic organizers, flashcards, handwriting—and their role in enhancing learning efficiency for both adults and children with autism. Looking Ahead Sarah previews her upcoming presentation at the Verbal Behavior Conference, covering generative learning and assessment tools. We also explore how collaboration and community can reduce burnout and increase long-term job satisfaction in ABA in the "advice for the newly-minted" segment. Resources & Links Session 287: BiDirectional Naming with Caio Miguel. Session 80: Verbal Behavior and Relational Frame Theory, with David Palmer and Josh Pritchard. Shillingsburg, et al. (2016). A Preliminary Procedure for Teaching Children with Autism to Mand for Social Information. Frampton and Linehan (2024). The effects of a training package to teach note taking on the formation of equivalence classes. Sponsor shoutouts! Office Puzzle: A thriving ABA practice depends on systems that actually support your team, not slow them down. If you've struggled with software that's buggy, hard to navigate, or offers little support when you need it most, you're not alone. That's why so many practices are switching to Office Puzzle. Go to officepuzzle.com/bop to learn more! Frontera. Consider taking a demo of Frontera's Assessment Builder and see how the ethical application of AI technologies can help you serve clients and save you time! Your first assessment report is free. And if you use code BOP25 you'll get an additional five assessments for just $100. So head to fronterahealth.com to check it out! MindBodyBehavior's Certified Health Coach Program. If you're a BCBA looking to use your ABA skills to help people live healthier lifestyles, learn how to do it the right way, with expert instruction, mentoring, and guidance from Sarah Burby. Better still, podcast listeners can save $$$ by using the code BOP10 at check out. Click here to learn more! The 2026 Stone Soup Conference! This is one of the best values in the online conference space. I'm actually going to be one of the speakers at this year's event, along with a great cast of other characters you're probably familiar with. Save on your registration by using promo code PODCAST26! The 2026 Verbal Behavior Conference! Taking place March 26–27, 2026, in Austin, Texas, or livestream and on-demand on BehaviorLive. Presenters will include Drs. Mark Sundberg, Patrick McGreevy, Caio Miguel, Alice Shillingsburg, Sarah Frampton, Andresa De Souza, and Danielle LaFrance will share how Skinner's analysis of verbal behavior can guide the assessment and treatment of generative learning challenges in children with autism and other developmental disabilities. And don't miss the special pre-conference workshop on Wednesday, March 25.

Hans & Scotty G.
KSR Radio Host Matt Jones: University of Utah private equity deal | How does Kentucky LLC compare + MORE

Hans & Scotty G.

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2025 15:22


Thirty Minutes with The Perrys
“What's Love Got to do With it” with Jada Edwards

Thirty Minutes with The Perrys

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2025 81:08


We all have “love issues.” John 13:35 says that love is to be our identifying mark as Christians – not our wisdom or spiritual gifts or activity – but being a loving person is difficult. Jada Edwards has a new book out called A New Way to Love Your Neighbor that she wrote out of a season where she struggled to love well. The Lord revealed to her that she couldn't be the originator of grace for other people. She needed God to reveal His love for her specifically, continually, so she'd be filled up with love to give. Jada and the Perrys explore the definition of agape love in which the person initiating the love determines the value of the one they love. They talk about how Biblical love for others almost always requires decision – deciding to love – instead of affection. And ultimately, love needs wisdom to be effective. We need to slow down, pray, and ask Holy Spirit to guide us in how to love. Scripture references:John 13:351 John 4:8Connect with Jada: https://www.instagram.com/jada_edwards/ This Episode is Sponsored By: https://gominno.com — Get your first month FREE when you use code PERRY at sign up. Take advantage of this web-only exclusive offer today! https://policygenius.com/perry — Compare free life insurance quotes from top companies and see how much you could save.Check out A New Way to Love Your Neighbor: Be Curious, Free, and Brave―How to Transform your Relationship with God and Others – https://www.amazon.com/New-Way-Love-Your-Neighbor/dp/1087789184 Subscribe to the Perrys' newsletter: https://withtheperrys.myflodesk.com/zhfus4jx1sJoin Preston's discipleship community for men: https://www.patreon.com/PrestonPerry/membershipTo support the work of the Perrys, donate via PayPal: https://paypal.me/withtheperrysShop BOLD Apparel: boldapparel.shop Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.