Podcasts about Connectivity

Mailing checks to pay off a credit card in 2026 sounds like a joke, but it is still a real debt consolidation workflow at scale. Greg Myers sits down with Jose Bethancourt, Co-Founder and CEO of Method, to unpack why liability payments are uniquely messy and what it takes to make them feel as seamless as modern fintech promises.Jose shares his path from growing up in South Texas near the Mexico border to building products at UT Austin, then turning a personal problem into a company. GradJoy started as a way to help new graduates understand student loan debt, interest rates, and payoff strategies, but it quickly revealed a deeper issue: people often cannot even locate their liabilities, and credential-based financial data access is brittle. Method tackles that with an identity-based financial connectivity API that, with consent, can find student loans, credit cards, mortgages, auto loans, and personal loans, then enable two-way flows that support both reading data and sending payments to creditors.We also get into what this unlocks for underwriting, personalization, and better customer outcomes, plus how it can reduce errors and fraud compared to manual PAN entry and back-office check operations. Jose lays out a forward-looking view of AI in payments, agentic payments, and a world where an AI agent can securely analyze your debt, shop for a better APR, and execute payoffs. Finally, we step back to discuss consumer demand for speed, why ACH still shapes reality, and how RTP and FedNow may push expectations even further.

2026 Summer Appetizer Auction Day One Sponsored by Blind Information Technology Solutions (BITS) Opens Thursday, July 9 at 12:00 noon ET Closes Friday, July 10 at 12:00 noon ET Opening Bids Included Appetizer Auction Rules and Information: Contact Leslie Spoone at 407 929-9837 or 407 227-4489 or email lesliespoone@cfl.rr.com with your bid. Please provide your name, phone number, email, item number and bid amount. Bids must be in $5.00 increments. • Leslie will send out Appetizer Auction information communicating the high bid on each item at 5:00pm ET, 8:00pm ET and 9:00am ET each day. After the close of each mini auction, an email will be sent announcing who has won each item. Billing for both the appetizer and Convention auction will take place starting on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, for all the winning purchases. Billing for auction items will be paused during the convention and resume on August 5, 2026. The auction items need to be paid for by August 14, 2026. ACB Auction Disclaimer The American Council of the Blind conducts fundraising auctions to provide financial support for our programs and services. We thank those individuals, organizations, and businesses who donate items for our auctions. We make every effort to ship purchased items in a timely manner. However, due to various circumstances beyond our control, it may not be possible for items to be shipped or to arrive by a specific date. To participate as a bidder, we ask that you be courteous to one another, to those who are conducting the auction and to those who will be contacting the winning bidders to arrange for payment. It is expected that any winning bidder will, after being contacted by anyone connected to the auction, provide proper billing information prior to the auction item being sent to them. If we are unable to collect the bid amount, we reserve the right to repurpose the item for the benefit of ACB. Any individual who does not comply with these rules will be prohibited from continuing to bid in this auction and may be prohibited from participating in any future auction. Day One 300 Victor Reader Stream 3 Donated by HumanWare Opening Bid $350 Enjoy having this handheld pocket-sized digital media audio player to harness the power of wireless content access that features a fully tactile interface. The Victor Reader Stream 3 is a handheld digital audio player to enjoy your media content, and this assistive device lets you listen to books, newspapers, web radio, music, podcasts, and other online resources. This is simple to use for anyone who is blind or living with a visual impairment, the Stream talking book player packs all your media into place and gives 15 hours of battery life, leaving more time to enjoy media content. 301 Movie Extravaganza Package Donated by ACB Associate Director of Development Jo Lynn Bailey-Page Opening Bid $30 Enjoy using this $50 Regal Cinemas gift card to watch the latest audio-described movies with some friends or family. Plus, that's not all, enjoy some goodies to go along with your movie! 302 Upcycled Ladybug Purse Donated by Keri Bishop of Tucson, AZ Opening Bid $30 This one-of-a-kind handbag transforms a pair of burgundy jeans into a stylish and functional accessory which is crafted with creativity and purpose. The upper portion of the jeans has been thoughtfully repurposed, preserving the original pockets that are perfect for convenient, built-in storage. A cheerful yellow accent fabric, adorned with playful ladybugs and delicate flowers, adds a bright pop of personality. The same fabric lines the interior, creating a cohesive and charming design inside and out. The adjustable strap is cut from the denim legs and allows for versatile wear. You can comfortably wear it over the shoulder or as a crossbody for hands-free ease. It has snap closures at the top to keep your belongings secure while maintaining easy access. This upcycled purse is a celebration of sustainability, craftsmanship, and whimsical style. perfect for anyone who loves unique, eco-friendly fashion and is practical and eye-catching. 303 Pampered Chef Stainless Steel Toaster Donated by Christina Brino Opening Bid $25 Our 4-slice stainless steel toaster is built for busy days, with extra-long, extra-wide slots that welcome everything from artisanal loaves to bagels, English muffins to Texas toast. Seven browning settings put you in control, so every slice comes out just the way you like it. Our bonus warming rack keeps buns and rolls perfectly toasty, cafe-style, without over-browning. Four smart functions put you in control: Bagel, Defrost, Reheat, and Cancel. Whether your bread is fresh, frozen, or already toasted, it comes out just right. Defrost takes bread and waffles from frosty to golden in one step while Reheat warms cooled toast without extra browning. This toaster has built-in cord storage that keeps counters tidy and a removable crumb tray allows for easy cleanup, and a high-lift lever ensures safe, easy removal making this toaster ready for weekday breakfasts, weekend brunches, and busy dinnertimes. 304 Two Dozen Dreamy Chocolate Chip Cookies Donated by Jack Pinnock, Owner Dreamie Cookies Opening Bid $40 These cookies were a huge hit in the ACB Holiday Auction. Enjoy the individually wrapped yummy chocolate chip cookies with your favorite beverage. Wow, they will melt in your mouth. You can share them with friends or just keep them for yourself! 305 Silver and Red Garnet Necklace and Earring Set Donated by Claudia Aff Opening Bid $25 You will look stunning in this beautiful 30-inch necklace of acrylic garnet red and filigree silver beads with matching hoop earrings. This will dress up any outfit! 306 Handmade Lap Blanket Donated by Nancy Mareno Opening Bid $25 Enjoy snuggling up with this beautiful handmade lap blanket which measures 33 inches by 29 inches. This blanket has 3 shades of pink with interspersed white. A great blanket for those cold nights! 307 Echo Spot Donated by Leslie Spoone Opening Bid $30 Enjoy this Echo Spot with a sleek smart alarm clock with Alexa and big vibrant sound. This spot will be great for you to wake up, wind down and so much more. You can personalize your display with your favorite clock face and fun colors. Just ask Alexa to play music, podcasts, and audiobooks. Ease into the day and set up an Alexa routine that gently wakes you with music and gradual light. You can also glance at the time, check reminders, or ask Alexa for weather updates. 308 $50 Amazon Gift Card Donated by Friends in Art Opening Bid $30 It is time to treat yourself to something special and here's a gift card to help you do it. $50 in spending at Amazon! 309 Cook with Confidence Using Cookie Voice Recipes Donated by Daria Axelrod Marmer Opening Bid $25 Designed specifically for blind and low vision cooks, Cookie Voice Recipes is a fully accessible, voice-controlled cooking app that provides hands-free, step-by-step recipe guidance. Ask questions while you cook, set timers, get ingredient substitutions, and even import your own recipes. This package includes a one-year Premium Subscription, providing unlimited access to voice-guided cooking, AI cooking assistance, and recipe importing features. Must be redeemed by December 2, 2026. 310 Handmade Framed Decoupage Canvasses of Colorful Collages Donated by ACB Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs Claire Stanley Opening Bid $25 This piece of art measures 12 by 16 inches. It is framed in a light blue picture frame. The decoupage style of art includes various sizes of ovals layered on top of each other in various tones of blue, yellow, and green. The piece is covered with a final layer of gloss. What a great conversational piece! 311 ModusTech 500GB Portable Donated by The Literacy Project Pat Tussing Director Opening Bid $25 The ModusTech external hard drive delivers lightning-fast transfer speeds of up to 5 Gbps with USB 3.0 technology. You can easily back up your files, transfer data, and store important documents. It's compatible with USB 2.0 and perfect for large files like HD movies, games, videos, and it has an ultra-Fast USB 3.0 Connectivity for Effortless Data Transfers. 312 $50 Darden Gift Card Donated by Cathy Spoone Opening Bid $30 Enjoy this gift card with someone special or just splurge on yourself and don't forget those scrumptious breadsticks! 313 Monet Jewelry Turtle Two Piece Jewelry Set Donated by Melissa Dubose Opening Bid $30 The two-piece jewelry set adds a playful yet polished touch to your accessories collection. This coordinated set includes a 17-inch rope chain necklace with a 2-inch extender and matching stud earrings, designed with glass accents for subtle shine. A lobster clasp closure ensures secure wear, while post-back earrings provide a comfortable fit. It's a great gift option for special occasions or everyday styling. 314 Logitech Wired Headset, Stereo Headphones with Noise-Cancelling Microphone Donated by Dan Spoone Opening Bid $25 These stereo headphones are black and have a noise-cancelling microphone, USB connection and In Line Controls. The PC headphones with plush, padded headband and ear cups provide optimum comfort. A rotating microphone minimizes background noise to provide noise-cancelling qualities resulting in clearer calls. 315 Tantalizing Homemade Candy Donated by Patty Slaby Opening Bid $40 This scrumptious homemade candy will make your get together with friends even sweeter! You can select one type of homemade candy or three different kinds. You will receive 60 pieces of candy in total from a selection of: peanut butter balls, chocolate covered potato chips, rum balls, dipped pretzels, bugles dipped in chocolate and many, many others. Patty will contact you for your selections and shipping will be determined by the weather. 316 Mary Kay Satin Hands Set Donated by Nancy Folsom Opening Bid $30 This 3-step process will leave your hands and feet feeling soft, smooth, and luxurious! The Satin Hands set softens, exfoliates, and moisturizes each time you use it. This set is great for guys and gals to help keep your hands healthy! You will love how great your hands feel! You can use it on your feet as well. 317 Fiery Dragon Print Black T shirt Donated by Blind Girl Designs Tricia Waechter Opening Bid $30 The red tactile print features the fierce head of a dragon in profile. Its jaws are open wide, exposing sharp, curved teeth as a stream of flames which pour outward. The fire is drawn with sweeping lines that curl and twist, giving a sense of movement and heat. The dragon's eye is narrow and intense, outlined with a strong stroke that adds a menacing expression. The dragon has a large horn on its snout and additionally, horns arc backward from its skull, and a row of large, jagged spines traces down the back of its neck. This t-shirt is 100% cotton, but do not size up because there is very little shrinkage when washed. Please wash inside out in cold wash and hang to dry or tumble for a few minutes to get the wrinkles out. These t-shirts come in sizes youth small through large, adult small through five XL, tall large through three XL. All sizes are unisex. The winner gets to pick their size! Enjoy your Blind Girl Designs! 318 Hand Carved Wooden Figurines Donated by DeAnna Quiet Water Noriega Opening Bid $25 Enjoy having these hand carved wooden figurines which include: a Buddha from Indonesia, a lion, a warthog, and a lioness all from Kenya. The giraffe is a soapstone also from Kenya. Wow, these will make a great conversational piece for your mantel! 319 Friday Morning Quotations Braille Book Donated by Dorlyn Catron Opening Bid $30 You will love reading the volume two Friday Morning Quotations Braille Book compiled by kay Wilson and published by The National Braille Press. Plus, enjoy a $50 Amazon card to splurge on yourself while you are reading and relaxing! 320 Chocolate Chip Bread Donated by Becky Hawkins Opening Bid $40 Indulge in this mouthwatering homemade chocolate chip bread. The bread is decadent and will melt in your mouth! What a fantastic treat to share with friends or family! 321 COSORI Air Fryer Pro Smart Donated by Carl Richardson Opening Bid $50 Enjoy this 5.8-quart air fryer which can roast and bake. The fryer has a 3-way control and a 12-in-1 customizable function. The basket is detachable, and it works with Alexa and Google Assistant. You can get online recipes. This would make a fantastic gift for the chef in your household! 322 $50 Gift Card to Walmart Donated by Arkansas Quazar Chapter Opening Bid $30 Enjoy this opportunity to fill your basket with treats for your family and friends. This $50 gift card could provide a chance for a special gift for yourself! 323 Black and Silver necklace Donated by Koni Sims, ACB Board Director Opening Bid $25 You will look stunning in 16-inch necklace featuring faux onyx and crystal beads. It has a 3-inch extender. Plus, enjoy the earrings which are 2 inches long. What a special gift to give to someone special! 324 Daniel Terrico Carved Puzzle Box Donated by Connie Jacomini Opening Bid $25 The Daniel Terrico puzzle box sports a hand carved shark motif on top. It is perfect for trinkets. There are instructions for use of this puzzle box enclosed. What a fantastic gift for your favorite fisherman! 325 Two Dozen Homemade Shortbread Cookies Donated by Deb Trevino and Delaware Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired Opening Bid $40 Enjoy two dozen fresh-baked mouth-watering authentic shortbread cookies guaranteed to explode on your palate with luscious buttery goodness. These are great with milk, hot chocolate, coffee, or your favorite tea. Next to Walker's, these are the best I've ever tasted. 326 Handcrafted Crocheted Bunny Donated by Keri Bishop of Tucson AZ Opening Bid $25 Enjoy this whimsical handcrafted crocheted bunny in a blue dress which is delightfully soft and lovingly handmade. This charming, crocheted bunny is a timeless keepsake and is perfect for all ages and is carefully crafted in a creamy ivory yarn. This sweet bunny features long floppy ears, gentle blue eyes and a soft pink nose that give it an irresistibly tender expression. The bunny is dressed in a beautifully textured, sky-blue crocheted dress with ruffled sleeves and a full, flowing skirt and this bunny exudes simple elegance. A delicate satin ribbon at the waist adds a graceful finishing touch, making it as lovely for display as it is for cuddling. Whether gifted to a child, displayed in a nursery, or cherished as a collectible, this one-of-a-kind bunny brings warmth, comfort, and handcrafted artistry. 327 Bangle Bracelets and Six Pairs Post Earrings Donated by Judy Okraski Opening Bid $25 You will look stunning with these multi metal bangle bracelets which are perfect to match any outfit. Plus, six sets of post earrings. All the earrings are colorful with single smooth surface colors that include: 2 Coral, 2 blue, green, and light pink. A fantastic gift for yourself or for someone special! 328 $50 Gift Card to the Blind Kitchen Donated by Debra Erickson, Executive Chef and Founder of The Blind Kitchen Opening Bid $30 Welcome to The Blind Kitchen where adaptive tools, helpful strategies, and specialized knowledge are provided to blind and vision-impaired people who want to cook safely, confidently, and independently. Debra Erickson is the Executive Chef and Founder of The Blind Kitchen where she will help you enjoy splurging on either yourself or someone special with this gift card and a 30-minute consult with Debra! 329 Three Handmade Hot Pads, Protein Fudge Recipe and Amazon Gift Card Donated by Tonya Drew of Essentially Braille Opening Bid $30 Enjoy the three brown cotton magic square potholders which come in large, medium, and small. As a special treat, enjoy making a delicious protein fudge recipe for yourself or friends and family. The recipe is written in Braille on Perma Braille cards to fit in your recipe box. Also, dine or shop with a $50 Amazon gift card. 330 $100 See's Candy E Gift Card Donated by Brad and Kathy Snyder Opening Bid $60 Enjoy splurging either on yourself or friends or family with this $100 E card for See's Candy. The brand is known for its premium chocolates, truffles, brittles, and other candies. They are very yummy! 331 ACB Students Common Ground Sweatshirt Donated by Blind Girl Designs Tricia Waechter Opening Bid $30 This print features a bold, symbolic Tree of Life design in a cool teal-green tactile ink. At the heart of the artwork is a circular Celtic-style tree with flowing, interwoven branches and roots that mirror one another. The canopy forms an elegant, rounded crown, while the roots weave into intricate knot- work, visually reinforcing the message of connection and shared foundation. Arched above the tree are the words: “COMMON GROUND,” And below that is printed “common ground” in grade 1 tactile braille. Curved below the roots are the words: “DIFFERENT ROOTS” And just above these words is “different roots “in grade one tactile braille. Surrounding the circular tree design is a subtle square frame made of different style of white canes, positioned along the top, bottom, and sides. The canes form a balanced border, reinforcing themes of accessibility and inclusion. On the back, printed horizontally in the same teal ink, is the phrase “Growing towards a bright future” in a fun cursive font with grade one tactile Braille underneath it. The overall design communicates unity, diversity, inclusion, and shared humanity. Different roots, but common ground presented in a clean, high-contrast layout that stands out beautifully against the rich colored background. This cozy heavyweight crewneck sweatshirt has banded sleeves and bottom. It is made from cotton poly and will not shrink. It should be washed inside out to protect the ink and make sure it's inside out before you feel free to put it in a hot tumble dryer in order to make it nice and fluffy! These sweatshirts come in unisex sizing, youth, small through large, adult small through 5-XL, tall large through 3-XL. The winner can pick their own size! Enjoy your Blind Girl Designs! 332 Necklace and Bracelet Jewelry Set Donated by Charlotte Lang Opening Bid $25 This dainty set is classic and sparkly in black and white. Most of the set is made up of 4-millimeter faceted black spinel beads. In the center of the necklace and bracelet is a 10 millimeter round white pearl. The necklace is 18 inches long and the bracelet is 7-1/2 inches long. Both have 2-inch adjuster chains and close with lobster claw clasps. 333 Waterford Crystal Marcella Vase Donated by Connie Jacomini Opening Bid $25 The Waterford Crystal Marcella Vase is a 6-inch, high-quality, clear lead crystal vase known for its elegant design, often featuring intricate fan and wedge cuts. Typically produced in the 2010s, this hand-cut footed vase is celebrated for its clarity, weight, and ability to catch light. 334 Singing Lesson Donated by Carole Brewer Opening Bid $25 You will enjoy spending one hour on ZOOM with singer and recording artist, Carole Brewer. Learn some of Carole's many concert-tested recipes for better breathing, tone quality, and confidence building. You will receive a free copy of Carole's voice manual titled 'Cookin' Up a Song ' and explore the possibility of taking your singing up to the next level. All great singing starts here, and you can contact Carole to set up a lesson time at info@carolebrewer.com. 335 Homemade Caramel Brownies Donated by Judy Okraski Opening Bid $40 These scrumptious homemade caramel brownies come in an 8 by 11-inch pan. Pair with your favorite beverage and enjoy this delicious treat with your friends. 336 Set of Six Handknitted Dishcloths Made with love and donated by Rhonda Lang from Milwaukee, Wisconsin Opening Bid $30 Enjoy this set of six handknitted dishcloths in a variety of colors. They will bring craftsmanship and resilience to your kitchen. The dishcloths are meticulously crafted for durability and designed to manage daily cleaning tasks with ease and elegance. 337 $50 Ruth's Cris Gift Card Donated by The Literacy Project Pat Tussing Director Opening Bid $30 Enjoy splurging at convention with this Ruth's Cris gift card. You will love dining at this restaurant which offers a New Orleans-inspired menu, including seafood and signature sides and USDA Prime steaks in a sophisticated, romantic, and welcoming atmosphere. 338 Pink Macrame Apple Watch Band Donated by Keri Bishop of Tucson, AZ Opening Bid $25 This handcrafted macramé watch band is a vibrant, eye-catching accessory designed to fit Apple Watch models ranging from 38 mm through 42 mm. Made from durable 2 mm satin cord in a bright bubblegum pink, the band has a smooth, lustrous finish that adds a playful yet polished touch to any look. The design is accented with elegant ceramic beads, each hand-painted with delicate pink floral details on a clean white background. These beads provide a soft contrast to the bold pink cord, creating a charming and balanced aesthetic that highlights the handcrafted artistry of the piece. The functionality is built into the design with a fully adjustable button-and-loop closure, similar to a toggle clasp. The button side features two main cords that pass through and loop back, allowing the band to be easily lengthened or shortened. This adjustable construction ensures a comfortable, secure fit for a variety of wrist sizes while maintaining a neat and streamlined appearance and they are both stylish and practical. This macramé watch band offers a unique way to personalize your Apple Watch with a handmade accessory that combines durability, adjustability, and a cheerful pop of color. 339 Light Green Glass Bead Necklace and Earrings Donated by Claudia Aff Opening Bid $25 You will look stunning in this beautiful light green glass bead 10-1/2 inch necklace with 6 darker ceramic flower beads at the bottom. Also, matching flower bead hook earrings that measure 2 inches. What a perfect complement to that summer outfit! 340 Key West Goodies Donated by Dan Spoone Opening Bid $40 Enjoy two dozen yummy macadamia nut and chocolate chip cookies. You can either share them with a friend or just have all of them for yourself! 341 Vera Bradley Backpack Donated by Cecily Laney Nipper ACB Board Director Opening Bid $30 Want to go out in style? This slightly used Vera Bradley backpack is for you. Perfect for work or school, this 18-inch backpack with two side pockets for water or soda and two zipper pockets will comfortably hold a 16.5-inch laptop in its built-in laptop sleeve. The black background of the print sets off the vibrant pink, teal, and lime green floral print. 342 $50 Starbucks Gift Card Donated by Merrilee Hill-Kennedy Opening Bid $30 Everyone loves a good cup of coffee. It's even better with some friends or family members over some laughs! As an extra bonus, Starbucks has goodies to eat. Bid so you can enjoy all the delicious choices from a great coffee establishment. 343 Computers for the Blind Laptop Donated by Computers for the Blind Opening Bid $60 Computers for the Blind (CFTB) is dedicated to bridging the digital divide for the community of the Blind and Visually Impaired. We do this by providing affordable, accessible refurbished computers and training. The winner will receive our standard laptop which is a $250 value. The laptop includes Windows 11, 256GB SSD and 8GB RAM. To qualify for Software and Warranty, registration is required. A certificate will be included with the laptop which contains details about how to register. The winner must register within 30 days of receiving their computer. The certificate indicates the expiration date and redemption code for registration. You will receive 1-Year free license of JAWS, ZoomText, or Fusion, JAWS training and 1-Year Warranty. Contact us at service@computersfortheblind.org 344 3D “we hold these truths to be self-evident” Royal Blue T-shirt Donated by Blind Girl Designs Tricia Waechter Opening Bid $30 This classic Americana white puff ink tactile print combines bold 18th century typography with raised tactile braille. This is a very similar font that was used in the typed version of the Declaration of Independence. A circle of 13 large five-pointed stars frames the entire design, creating the look of an early American flag which was inspired by the spirit of 1776 and, of course, the 13 original colonies. At the top left and right corners of the print, the years “1776” and “2026” mark the 250-year anniversary of the United States. Beneath each year is a line of raised braille dots, adding a tactile reading element that complements the18th century fonts. Centered in the middle of the print, the famous and powerful phrase from the Declaration of Independence is stacked in dramatic vintage-style lettering “WE HOLD THESE TRUTHS TO BE SELF EVIDENT THAT ALL MEN ARE CREATED EQUAL.” Each section of text is paired with tactile braille underneath, allowing the message to be experienced both visually and through touch. The combination of distressed colonial inspired lettering and raised puff ink creates a striking and authentic dimensional effect. Below the main statement is a horizontal divider with a centered star, followed by the words: “UNITED STATES Of AMERICA.” Again, accompanied by tactile braille beneath the 18th century authentic wording the entire print is designed in clean white puff ink for a bold raised texture that stands out. The tactile surface gives the artwork depth, accessibility, and a handcrafted feel while maintaining a strong patriotic presentation. This T-shirt is 100% cotton, but do not size up because there is very little shrinkage when washed. You should wash inside out in cold wash and hang it to dry or tumble for a few minutes to get the wrinkles out. These t-shirts come in sizes youth small through large, adult small through five XL, tall large through three XL. All sizes are unisex and the winner gets to pick their own size. Enjoy celebrating our 250th anniversary with your Blind Girl Designs!!!! 345 Homemade Triple Play Oversized Cookies Donated by Brian Charlson Opening Bid $40 Here we go again; it's time for Brian's triple play oversized cookies. Those who have won this item in the past will attest to the flavor, size, and overall quality of this perennial auction favorite. You can choose one dozen from either classic chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, or peanut butter. They are packaged individually. Feel free to offer them up as additions to gift baskets or pop them in the freezer to savor them over a few months or weeks. 346 $25 Panera Gift Card and $25 Dunkin Doughnuts Gift Card Donated by Diane Scalzi and Leslie Spoone Opening Bid $30 Enjoy or share delicious soups, sandwiches, salads, and baked goods with a $25 gift card from Panera Bread. Also included is a $25 Dunkin Doughnuts gift card to enjoy with friends or family. Cards are available as electronic or physical, your choice. 347 Embroidered Apron Donated by Terry Keyson of Braille Wear Opening Bid $25 Protect your clothing while you cook by wearing this lovely knee-length maroon apron with two front pockets. It has customized embroidery that is both visual and tactile. The embroidered wording on the front of the apron in print and braille is “Serving Up 20 Years “. Wow, celebrate the auction turning 20 years with this apron and your chef will look fantastic! 348 $75 Amazon E Gift Card Donated by Blue Grass Council of the Blind Opening Bid $40 Seventy-five dollars, ready to send by email or text, It's yours in the end. A click and a smile, a gift in a flash for someone you love or your own little splash. From BCB's heart to the auction fun, Bid with cheer and may you be the one. 349 Three hours of one-on-one personal happiness coaching along with Handwritten Booklets Donated by Darian Slayton Fleming of Embrace Happiness Opening Bid $25 The booklets are entitled: My AI: Affirmations and Intentions (this booklet has 31 suggested affirmations and 31 suggested intentions. Each section is followed by instructions about how to write your own affirmations and intentions and blank pages on which you can write your own affirmations and intentions. Also, My AI: Affirming and Intentional Self Care. This booklet describes the Happy for No Reason approach to designing your own happiness and practical exercises that will help you embody happiness through intentional self-care. You can enjoy these booklets in braille, large print, or standard print. Enjoy having this time with Darian Slayton Fleming who is a Certified Happiness Trainer and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Darian will show you how to embrace happiness in these sessions. 350 Chocolate Peanut Butter Buckeyes Donated by Dan Spoone Opening Bid $40 Enjoy this 24-piece box of chocolate Peanut Butter Buckeyes. These are packed in our Ohio State Themed Buckeye box. What a yummy treat to either share with some friends or just keep them for yourself! Find out more at https://acb-convention.pinecast.co

What if IoT connectivity didn't require expensive long-term contracts or constant monitoring? In this episode, Sigfox South Africa CEO Gregory Rood explains how a new “single-use communication” model is transforming the way businesses think about connected devices. The discussion explores how ultra-low-cost IoT tags can send alerts only when critical events happen — such as a package being opened, medicine going out of temperature range, or a shipment being tampered with. Instead of continuous tracking and monthly subscriptions, businesses can deploy short-term, prepaid connectivity built around real-world operational needs. From healthcare and cold-chain logistics to freight monitoring, panic buttons, and asset protection, the episode highlights how Sigfox's AI-enhanced network and South African-built innovation are lowering the barrier to IoT adoption and enabling smarter, more affordable connected solutions.

„Iran blockiert Straße von Hormus“ – das war Anfang des Jahres 2026 eine der Schlagzeilen, die weltweit für Aufsehen sorgte. Durch den Krieg in Iran konnte vom Persischen Golf kein Öltanker mehr durch diese Meerenge in den Indischen Ozean fahren. Die Benzinpreise stiegen – nicht nur in Europa. Ein Beispiel, warum der Indische Ozean mehr mit uns tun hat, als wir oft glauben. Seit Jahrtausenden ist dieser Ozean ein bedeutender Handelsraum und ein Ort des kulturellen Austauschs. Aber er ist auch ein Meer, auf dem der Sklavenhandel schon im Mittelalter blühte, in dem westliche Kolonialmächte wie England, Portugal und die Niederlande jahrhundertelang herrschten und das uralte Handelssystem veränderten. Und dann gibt es da noch den Indischen Ozean als Sehnsuchtsort für Millionen Touristen, die jedes Jahr auf Bali, den Seychellen oder den Malediven Urlaub machen. Ein Podcast über die Kraft des Monsuns, kosmopolitische Inseln und die Frage: Warum gibt es im Indischen Ozean eigentlich so viele Erdbeben? InterviewparterInnen: Colin Devey Jürgen Nagel Himanshu Prabha Ray Beate Ratter Bernhard Schnepel Alpers, Edward A. and Burkhard Schnepel (Hg). (2018): Connectivity in motion: island hubs in the Indian Ocean world. Palgrave Series in Indian Ocean World Studies. Cham: Palgrave Macmillan. Fauconnier, Bram (2012): Graeco-Roman merchants in the Indian Ocean: Revealing a multicultural trade, in: Topoi. Orient-Occident, Suppl. 11, S. 75–109. Guyot, Alain (2021): „Le voyage de Théophile Gautier en Égypte ou les leçons d'un accident de parcours“, in: Viatica, Nr. 8, S. 1–16. Huber, Valeska (2010): Multiple Mobilities. Über den Umgang mit verschiedenen Mobilitätsformen um 1900, in: Geschichte und Gesellschaft, Jg. 36, Heft 2, S. 317–341. Mann, Michael (2011): Arbeitsnetzwerke im Indischen Ozean. Sklaven-Sträflinge-Kulis-Gastarbeiter, in: Südasien-Chronik – South Asia-Chronicle, Jg. 1, S. 7–40. Nagel, Jürgen (2025): Abenteuer Fernhandel. Die Ostindien-Kompanien. Darmstadt, Wissenschaftliche Buchgesellschaft. Nagel, Jürgen G. (2024): Indischer Ozean und Malaiischer Archipel vom 16. bis zum 20. Jahrhundert, in: Mark Häberlein und Markus A. Denzel (Hrsg.): Handbuch globale Handelsräume und Handelsrouten. Von der Antike bis zur Gegenwart, Berlin: De Gruyter, S. 341–387. Nagel, Jürgen G. (2017): Schifffahrt auf dem Indischen Ozean im 19. Jahrhundert. Technologie und Wissen in der Transportrevolution der Moderne, in: Zeitschrift für Weltgeschichte. Interdisziplinäre Perspektiven, Jg. 18, Heft 2, S. 61–80. Nagel, Jürgen (2003): Der Schlüssel zu den Molukken. Makassar und die Handelsstrukturen des Malaiischen Archipelsi m 17. und 18. Jahrhundert. Schriften zur Sozial- und Wirtschaftsgeschichte, Bd. 3. Hamburg, Dr. Kovač-Verlag. Osterhammel, Jürgen (2012): Das 19. Jahrhundert (= Informationen zur politischen Bildung, Nr. 315), Bonn: Bundeszentrale für politische Bildung. Pargas, Damian A. und Juliane Schiel (Hrsg.) (2023): The Palgrave Handbook of Global Slavery throughout History, Cham: Palgrave Macmillan. Ramseyer, Urs (2016): NUSANTARA (21). Die Gewürzkriege und ihre Auswirkungen im Indonesischen Archipel. Teil II: 15. – 17. Jahrhundert. Konsequenzen des Geschmacks. Eine kommentierte Chronologie. Online verfügbar unter: http://ursramseyer.blogspot.ch. Ratter, Beate; A. Hennig; Zahid (2024): Section 5.10. Small Island Adaption in the Maldives. In: Engels, Anita et al. Hamburg Climate Futures Outlook 2024. Conditions for Sustainable Climate Change Adaption. Cluster of Excellence “Climate, Climatic Change , and Society” (CLICCS), S. 127-130. Ray, Himanshu Prabha (2020): The Archaeology of Knowledge Traditions of the Indian Ocean World, London: Routledge India. Schnepel, Burkhard (Hg) (2017): Max Planck Fellow Group “Connectivity in Motion: Port Cities of the Indian Ocean.” Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology Report 2014/2016. Halle/Saale: Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology. Shyam, Radhey (1968): Life and Times of Malik Ambar, Delhi: Munshiram Manoharlal, S. 149–150. Ziolkowski, Tobias, Colin W. Devey und Agnes Koschmider (2025): Detecting small seamounts in multibeam data using convolutional neural networks, in: Frontiers in Marine Science, Vol. 12, Art. Nr. 105572. Internetquellen https://de.statista.com/infografik/35913/volumen-des-durch-die-strasse-von-hormus-transportierten-rohoels-nach-ziel/ https://www.britannica.com/event/Zanj-rebellion https://www.britishmuseum.org/blog/zanj-rebellion-ancient-coin-reveals-fight-freedom https://www.dw.com/de/sklavenhandel-in-ostafrika-ein-verschwiegenes-kapitel/a-50101582 https://forschung.tmw.at/70897 https://www.gutenberg.org/files/59295/59295-h/59295-h.htm https://www.mpg.de/10998872/eth-jb-2017 https://www.mpg.de/10546858/ozean-kulturraum https://www.focus.de/wissen/raetsel-um-140-millionen-jahre-altes-loch-im-indischen-ozean-geloest_531afc5a-65a2-45f9-9389-3cdc9223e0e3.html https://www.spiegel.de/wissenschaft/oase-des-friedens-a-32026fb6-0002-0001-0000-000008510067 Mehr zum Thema in der ZDF-Mediathek https://www.zdf.de/dokus/inseln-im-indischen-ozean---leben-im-bedrohten-paradies-movie-100 https://www.zdf.de/play/reportagen/collection-index-page-ard-collection-ard-dxjuomfyzdpzag93oju2ywqxywywymy2nmzmodk-226/page-video-ard-sri-lanka-perle-im-indischen-ozean-102?q=indischer+ozean https://www.zdf.de/play/reportagen/collection-index-page-ard-collection-ard-dxjuomfyzdpzag93omizmzk2zjjjnmmyzddmmdc-250/page-video-ard-290-fasching-im-indischen-ozean-100?q=indischer+ozean https://www.zdf.de/dokus/terra-x-expedition-europa-mit-colin-devey-100 Weitere Links Piraten und Freibeuter: Die Geschichte der Seeräuberei Mythos Südsee: Die Geschichte des Pazifiks Atlantik: Die Geschichte eines Weltmeeres Deutsch: Eine Sprache und ihre Geschichte Sprache: Eine Geschichte von Babbelfischen und Dichtkunst Tsunami 2004: Die Chronologie der Flutkatastrophe Tödliche Welle überlebt! Tsunami 2004 | Terra X Podcast-Tipp: NS-Cliquen: Von Menchen und Mördern. https://1.ard.de/ns-cliquen-S3?pc=txhistory Team: Moderation: Mirko Drotschmann Sprecher*innen: Juana Guschl, , Dominik Freiberger, Andrea Kath, Nils Kretschmer Buch und Regie: objektiv media GmbH, Janine Funke und Andrea Kath Technik: Sascha Schiemann Musik: Sonoton Produktion: objektiv media GmbH im Auftrag des ZDF Redaktion ZDF: Katharina Kolvenbach und Arne Peisker

The IoT connectivity market is changing rapidly. Ibraheem Kasujee, Senior Analyst at Analysys Mason, and Jon Connet, Chief Product Officer at Aeris, explore what is driving this evolution, and its impact.   Topics for discussion include: the new IoT eSIM specification, known as SGP.3, and how it will disrupt the IoT value chain how operators and IoT connectivity providers need to adapt their propositions the impact of AI on the IoT market.  For more analysis on IoT, see our IoT Services research programme. 

Expereo: Enterprises Are Racing Into AI, But the Network Still Has to Carry the Load, Podcast, “AI is no longer a debate. Enterprises are already using it. The question now is whether the network is ready to support what comes next,” says Marek Wasilewski of Expereo @Doug Green “AI is no longer a debate. Enterprises are already using it. The question now is whether the network is ready to support what comes next,” says Marek Wasilewski of Expereo. In this Cisco Live 2026 podcast, Doug Green speaks with Marek Wasilewski of Expereo about the company's 2026 Enterprise Horizons report and what it reveals about enterprise AI adoption, network readiness and the growing pressure on global connectivity. This is one of several Cisco Live podcasts worth revisiting after the initial wave of show coverage. The conversation provides interesting insights into how AI is changing the network conversation for enterprises, service providers and channel partners. According to Expereo's research, 92% of enterprises are using AI in some form, while 30% are already using it extensively. At the same time, 70% are investing in AI without carefully measuring ROI. That combination creates both opportunity and risk: enterprises are moving quickly, but many are still building on networks that were not designed for the scale, performance and resilience demands of AI-driven operations. Expereo, a global Network-as-a-Service provider, helps enterprises simplify and manage connectivity across complex international environments. In the podcast, Wasilewski explains why AI success depends not only on models, applications and cloud platforms, but also on the underlying network that connects users, data, workloads and business locations. For channel partners, MSPs and enterprise technology leaders, the message is clear: AI is making the network strategic again. Connectivity is no longer just plumbing. It is becoming a core part of digital transformation, customer experience, automation and business continuity. The conversation also explores how enterprises can think more clearly about AI investment, how global connectivity strategies are changing, and why network visibility, flexibility and reliability will matter even more as AI moves from pilot projects into production environments. Learn more: expereo.com

If you enjoy this episode, we're sure you will enjoy more content like this on The Occult Rejects.  In fact, we have curated playlists on occult topics like grimoires, esoteric concepts and phenomena, occult history, analyzing true crime and cults with an occult lens, Para politics, and occultism in music. Whether you enjoy consuming your content visually or via audio, we've got you covered - and it will always be provided free of charge.  So, if you enjoy what we do and want to support our work of providing accessible, free content on various platforms, please consider making a donation to the links provided below.  Thank you and enjoy the episode!Links For The Occult Rejectshttps://linktr.ee/theoccultrejectsOccult Research Institutehttps://www.occultresearchinstitute.org/Substackhttps://substack.com/@theoccultrejects?r=7auau0&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageCash Apphttps://cash.app/$theoccultrejectsVenmo@TheOccultRejectsBuy Me A Coffeebuymeacoffee.com/TheOccultRejectsPatreonhttps://www.patreon.com/TheOccultRejectsBiblioBernardi, Luciano, Peter Sleight, Gabriele Bandinelli, Simone Cencetti, Luciano Fattorini, Johanna Wdowczyc-Szulc, and Alfonso Lagi. “Effect of Rosary Prayer and Yoga Mantras on Autonomic Cardiovascular Rhythms: Comparative Study.” BMJ 323, no. 7327 (2001): 1446–1449.Benson, Herbert, John W. Lehmann, Mark S. Malhotra, Ralph F. Goldman, Jeffrey Hopkins, and Mark D. Epstein. “Body Temperature Changes During the Practice of g Tum-mo Yoga.” Nature 295 (1982): 234–236.Benson, Herbert, Mark S. Malhotra, Ralph F. Goldman, Gregory D. Jacobs, and Jeffrey Hopkins. “Three Case Reports of the Metabolic and Electroencephalographic Changes During Advanced Buddhist Meditation Techniques.” Behavioral Medicine 16, no. 2 (1990): 90–95.Bremer, Brandon, Lorenzo Wu, Zoran Josipovic, and colleagues. “Mindfulness Meditation Increases Default Mode, Salience, and Central Executive Network Connectivity.” Scientific Reports 12 (2022).Brewer, Judson A., Patrick D. Worhunsky, Jeremy R. Gray, Yi-Yuan Tang, Jochen Weber, and Hedy Kober. “Meditation Experience Is Associated with Differences in Default Mode Network Activity and Connectivity.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 108, no. 50 (2011): 20254–20259.Britton, Willoughby B. and colleagues. Research associated with the “Varieties of Contemplative Experience” project on meditation-related challenges, adverse effects, and safety considerations in contemplative practice.Crowley, Aleister. Liber E vel Exercitiorum sub figura IX. In the A∴A∴ training corpus. Relevant sections include asana, pranayama, and dharana as foundational magical exercises.Dennison, Paul. “Insights From an EEG Study of Buddhist Jhāna Meditation.” Frontiers in Human Neuroscience 13 (2019).Fialoke, Shantala, Helen Weng, and colleagues. “Functional Connectivity Changes in Meditators and Novices During Yoga Nidra Practice.” Scientific Reports 14 (2024).Fox, Kieran C. R., Savannah Nijeboer, Matthew L. Dixon, James L. Floman, Melissa Ellamil, Samuel P. Rumak, Peter Sedlmeier, and Kalina Christoff. “Is Meditation Associated with Altered Brain Structure? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Morphometric Neuroimaging in Meditation Practitioners.” Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews 43 (2014): 48–73.Hölzel, Britta K., James Carmody, Mark Vangel, Christina Congleton, Sita M. Yerramsetti, Tim Gard, and Sara W. Lazar. “Mindfulness Practice Leads to Increases in Regional Brain Gray Matter Density.” Psychiatry Research: Neuroimaging 191, no. 1 (2011): 36–43.Kozhevnikov, Maria, Olesya Louchakova, Zoran Josipovic, and Michael A. Motes. “The Enhancement of Visuospatial Processing Efficiency Through Buddhist Deity Meditation.” Psychological Science 20, no. 5 (2009): 645–653.Kozhevnikov, Maria, John A. Elliott, Jennifer Shephard, and Klaus Gramann. “Neurocognitive and Somatic Components of Temperature Increases During g-Tummo Meditation: Legend and Reality.” PLOS ONE 8, no. 3 (2013): e58244.Laukkonen, Ruben E., and Heleen A. Slagter. “From Many to (N)one: Meditation and the Plasticity of the Predictive Mind.” Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews 128 (2021): 199–217.Lomas, Tim, Juan Carlos Ivtzan, and Itai K. Fu. “A Systematic Review of the Neurophysiology of Mindfulness on EEG Oscillations.” Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews 57 (2015): 401–410.Lott, James P., Richard J. Davidson, John D. Dunne, Thupten Jinpa, Antoine Lutz, and colleagues. “No Detectable Electroencephalographic Activity After Clinical Declaration of Death Among Tibetan Buddhist Meditators in Apparent Tukdam.” Frontiers in Psychology 11 (2021): 599190.Lutz, Antoine, Lawrence L. Greischar, Nancy B. Rawlings, Matthieu Ricard, and Richard J. Davidson. “Long-term Meditators Self-induce High-amplitude Gamma Synchrony During Mental Practice.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 101, no. 46 (2004): 16369–16373.Lutz, Antoine, Julie Brefczynski-Lewis, Tom Johnstone, and Richard J. Davidson. “Regulation of the Neural Circuitry of Emotion by Compassion Meditation: Effects of Meditative Expertise.” PLoS ONE 3, no. 3 (2008): e1897.Matko, Karin, Peter Sedlmeier, and colleagues. “Adverse Effects of Meditation and Mindfulness in Clinical Practice.” 2025.Patanjali. Yoga Sutras. Especially Book III, traditionally describing dharana, dhyana, and samadhi.Riegner, Gretchen, Fadel Zeidan, and colleagues. “Disentangling Self from Pain: Mindfulness Meditation-Induced Pain Relief Is Driven by Thalamic-Default Mode Network Decoupling.” Pain 164, no. 2 (2023): 280–291.Tang, Yi-Yuan, Britta K. Hölzel, and Michael I. Posner. “The Neuroscience of Mindfulness Meditation.” Nature Reviews Neuroscience 16 (2015): 213–225.Vago, David R., and David A. Silbersweig. “Self-awareness, Self-regulation, and Self-transcendence: A Framework for Understanding the Neurobiological Mechanisms of Mindfulness.” Frontiers in Human Neuroscience 6 (2012): 296.Zeidan, Fadel, and colleagues. Research on mindfulness meditation, pain modulation, attention, and the neural mechanisms of pain relief.Slagter, Heleen A., Antoine Lutz, Lawrence L. Greischar, Andrew D. Francis, Sander Nieuwenhuis, James M. Davis, and Richard J. Davidson. “Mental Training Affects Distribution of Limited Brain Resources.” PLOS Biology 5, no. 6 (2007): e138. Use for: Attentional blink, limited attention, and meditation changing how the brain allocates resources.Hölzel, Britta K., James Carmody, Mark Vangel, Christina Congleton, Sita M. Yerramsetti, Tim Gard, and Sara W. Lazar. “Mindfulness Practice Leads to Increases in Regional Brain Gray Matter Density.” Psychiatry Research: Neuroimaging 191, no. 1 (2011): 36–43. Use for: Neuroplasticity, repeated practice leaving measurable marks on the brain, and the “practice writes itself into the practitioner” idea.Laukkonen, Ruben E., and Heleen A. Slagter. “From Many to (N)one: Meditation and the Plasticity of the Predictive Mind.” Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews 128 (2021): 199–217. Use for: Predictive processing, the brain as a prediction machine, meditation loosening automatic models, and the “veil” argument.Lutz, Antoine, Julie Brefczynski-Lewis, Tom Johnstone, and Richard J. Davidson. “Regulation of the Neural Circuitry of Emotion by Compassion Meditation: Effects of Meditative Expertise.” PLOS ONE 3, no. 3 (2008): e1897. Use for: Compassion meditation, loving-kindness, emotional circuitry, and training compassion as a repeatable state rather than just a moral idea.Kok, Bethany E., Kimberly A. Coffey, Michael A. Cohn, Lahnna I. Catalino, Tanya Vacharkulksemsuk, Sara B. Algoe, Marc A. Brantley, and Barbara L. Fredrickson. “How Positive Emotions Build Physical Health: Perceived Positive Social Connections Account for the Upward Spiral Between Positive Emotions and Vagal Tone.” Psychological Science 24, no. 7 (2013): 1123–1132. Use for: Loving-kindness, social connection, vagal tone, and the cautious “social nervous system” bridge.Black, David S., and George M. Slavich. “Mindfulness Meditation and the Immune System: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.” Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences 1373, no. 1 (2016): 13–24. Use for: Immune-system caution, inflammation markers, cell-mediated immunity, biological aging, and why this material should be framed as tentative rather than miracle healing.Burić, Ivana, Miguel Farias, Jonathan Jong, Christopher Mee, and Inti A. Brazil. “What Is the Molecular Signature of Mind–Body Interventions? A Systematic Review of Gene Expression Changes Induced by Meditation and Related Practices.” Frontiers in Immunology 8 (2017): 670. Use for: Stress biology, inflammatory gene expression, NF-kB-related language, and the cautious claim that mind-body practices may affect biology below ordinary mood.Also want to remind people about the website, if you're into reading we have tons of information by multiple contributors, and we got t-shirts up on the site if you're interested. Fun fact, the art is all based on the eyeball. A

John Maytham speaks to Lindsey Schutters, journalist with Daily Maverick, about the airline industry's campaign to reduce aviation taxes and charges. Using insights gathered at an IATA briefing, they discuss the debate over passenger taxes, airline profitability, consumer rights and the role air connectivity plays in supporting economic growth, tourism and trade. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Shannon Poach advises YOU on dating, relationships, emotional intelligence, and issues associated with underwhelming dating apps. Find out why TheRightOne.net is ultimately the optimal choice as a strategy to find the right, long term partner. The old, outdated swiping process, lacks personal assessment and taking inventory of your emotions and needs. TheRightOne.net helps you slow down, approaching dating with emotional compatibility....in communication, who you trust, regulation of self emotion, and increased your self awareness. Visit TheRightOne.net and learn more about yourself. Be open to the adventure. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/success-made-to-last-legends--4302039/support.

Connectivity is top of mind for many South Island voters. South Island businesses are banding together to push their priorities onto the election agenda, using a major new conference to pressure political leaders on growth, infrastructure and workforce issues. And for the average person, mobile coverage and connectivity is a big issue – with dropouts and lacking 4G/5G coverage causing problems. NZ Telecommunications Forum CEO Paul Brislen told Kerre Woodham that telco companies are reliant on the government to co-fund towers, as there's no commercial reason to put towers in places only a handful of people will use them every once in a while. He says it's very much a joint venture, and he doesn't recall anything in the Budget about more funding – but it's an election year so that may change. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He's been a prosecutor, a Yale Divinity School student, a policy advisor, a climate resilience expert, and has traveled the world studying how communities survive catastrophe. People have tried to recruit him to run for office. Instead, Andrew Doss takes the next step toward becoming an Episcopal priest. After spending years around law, politics, and power, why did he decide the questions he cared about most were spiritual ones?

In this episode of Data Driven, we're diving into the rapidly evolving world of agentic AI—where autonomous AI agents collaborate, communicate, and occasionally collide. Our guest, Vlad Luzin, co-founder and CTO of Band, joins us to explore the technical challenges and real-world implications of building collaboration layers for agents that act like distributed, non-deterministic microservices. We'll unpack the myths and realities surrounding orchestration, governance, and security, and discuss how enterprises can operationalize these agent ecosystems safely. Tune in as we share lessons learned, amusing engineering mishaps, and get a glimpse of what the future holds as agents become everyday colleagues in the digital enterprise.LinksVlad's LinkedIn Profile -https://www.linkedin.com/in/luzin/Watch this episode on YouTube -https://youtu.be/MZztFagEX_EBand Website -https://www.band.ai/Band Docs -https://docs.band.ai/Time Stamps00:00 Explaining orchestration in tech03:42 Understanding models and harnesses09:38 Misconceptions about A2A communication10:41 Understanding multi-agent systems16:18 Observability for distributed systems18:54 Agent communication and collaboration24:28 Unauthorized agent interactions25:49 Remote agent collaboration ideas28:54 How foundational AI models communicate33:20 Agent communication protocols overview35:39 Discussing tech standards and AI velocity40:53 Learning to Work with AI Agents42:41 Using Band AI tools

WSJM Afternoon News for 06-08-26See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, host Paige Hookway speaks with Carmen Redondo, Director, Global Marketing Antennas, KYOCERA AVX Components. Carmen aims to answer the question 'How is NTN (Non-Terrestrial Network) reshaping connectivity?'. 

When we talk about wireless connectivity, often what we're thinking about is WiFi, however mobile connectivity such as 5G is still important for many sectors.What happens to a business when mobile connectivity is inadequate or fails completely?On this episode of the ITPro Podcast Jane and Bobby are joined by Paul McHugh, VP of EMEA sales at Ericsson, to discuss how wireless connectivity issues can affect businesses.Sign up to the ITPro Newsletter for more content like this direct to your inbox every day.Three and Ericsson just launched a first-of-its-kind managed 5G service for businesses | IT ProePrivate 5G and partner ecosystems: The blueprint for intelligent infrastructure | ChannelPro

(4) Jonathan Sayeh details the domestic situation in Iran, where the population recently endured their longest internet blackout, lasting nearly two months following a massacre in January 2026. Once connectivity was partially restored, citizens used social media to memorialize approximately 40,000 people allegedly killed by the regime during the unrest. Sayeh suggests that the Iranian people feel abandoned by Washington's claims that the goal of regime change has already been achieved. Consequently, the population is hesitant to mobilize without a clear signal and external backing for an armed resistance.1511

Fiber Connect 2026 proved to be quite timely and significant at this point in the telecom industry with data center expansion booming, fiber builds ramping up with BEAD funding, and ongoing new tower construction.Doug Wittrock, Chief Operating Officer at Network Connex sat down with John Celentano, Inside Towers Business Editor at the event to share his perspectives and outlook on the opportunities and challenges with designing and building facilities across the range of digital infrastructure asset classes.Support the show

Dave Rubinstein, Editor in Chief of SD Times, discusses with Kumar Vikesh, Senior Product Owner at Progress Data Direct, the challenges of REST connectivity and the introduction of an AI-driven solution to automate the creation of model files for the Autonomous REST Connector. Progress Data Direct offers a standard connectivity platform with over 60 connectors and 100 data sources. The new AI-driven approach uses three agents: a generator, validator, and launcher, to create, validate, and test REST model files, reducing manual effort from days to hours. The solution is currently in an early access program, with plans for future general availability and integration with Visual Studio Code.

Unlock the secrets to building a future-proof smart home with the most comprehensive breakdown of connectivity options ever! Whether you're a beginner or looking to upgrade, discover how Wi-Fi, Thread, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and proprietary protocols each play a unique role—and how they can all coexist seamlessly. This episode unveils why Thread is gaining rapid adoption, how Matter is revolutionizing device interoperability, and why Wi-Fi isn't the only game in town anymore.Dive into this in-depth exploration as Jen Tooy from The Verge and Andrew O'Hara decode complex connectivity standards into simple choices — perfect for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals alike. You'll discover how newer protocols like Thread are addressing scalability and reliability issues older standards like Zigbee and Z-Wave struggled with, especially in large homes or remote locations. Expect concrete examples, real-world troubleshooting tips, and insights into future tech like Wi-Fi 7 and PoE.From the impact of network congestion to the benefits of mesh and multi-protocol devices, you'll get the context needed to make smarter decisions for your home automation. They break down critical hardware like border routers, hubs, and smart locks, revealing which tech you truly need—and which one just sounds cool. Plus, learn about hidden gems such as proprietary solutions from Lutron, Insteon, and specialized protocols used for security and life safety.Why does this episode matter? As the smart home landscape becomes more crowded than ever, understanding these standards can save you money, headaches, and future-proof your setup. Don't get stuck with incompatible devices or outdated tech—arm yourself with the knowledge to pick the right protocols today.Whether you're designing a new build or upgrading your existing setup, this is your essential guide to mastering the complex web of smart home connectivity. Get ahead of the curve—listen now and turn chaos into a harmonious, connected home.Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at:@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by:Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/homekit!NordStellar: Get an exclusive offer: Unlock your 10% discount on NordStellar with the coupon code: SMARTHOMEINSIDER10  - Just mention it to NordStellar!Smart Home Insider YouTube ChannelSubscribe to the Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the showAqara U500 Smart LockBest Vacuum for Your HomeCoolfly Aura Bird FeederThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

Send us Fan MailOn this episode of Connected Nation, we talk with Joseph “Joey” Wender, Executive Director of SHLB. The conversation explores the future of the Universal Service Fund, the ongoing fight to close the homework gap, cybersecurity challenges facing community institutions, and how reliable connectivity can be life-changing, and even lifesaving, for communities across the country.Recommended links:Joseph Wender LinkedInSHLB website

DOWNLOAD "BREAKING MY ALLEGIANCE" by Bernard Borghei on your favorite APP or go to:   ‎Breaking My Allegiance - Single - Album by Bernard Borghei - Apple Music Learn more about Bernard at: Bernard Borghei | LinkedIn Episode Highlights  From Tehran to Philadelphia: A Teenager's Escape from Revolution At just 12 years old, Bernard witnessed the Iranian Revolution up close. His family lost everything—their home, savings, and even his Star Wars toys were confiscated. By 13, he was fleeing across Europe, eventually finding asylum in the U.S. thanks to policy changes under the Reagan administration. The Immigrant's Fire: Why Hunger Beats Talent Bernard shares how working in pizza shops to pay for college while never attending a single basketball game or spring break fueled his relentless drive. His biggest fear? That his own children would have to experience the same survival mode he did. A Forgotten Iran: When Faith United, Not Divided Before the revolution, Iran was a secular, democratic society where Christians, Muslims, and Jewish Persians celebrated each other's holidays. Bernard recalls watching the Israeli national soccer team play in Tehran—proof that the region once thrived on coexistence. The Music That Saved Him (And the Record Exec Who Said No) Music was therapy for Bernard. He taught himself guitar on a left-handed Fender, wrote 22 songs, and almost got signed by Polygram—until an A&R guy told him, “I can't sell this face to the MTV generation.” Instead of giving up, he kept playing on weekends for decades. Breaking My Allegiance: A Song Against Weaponized Faith Bernard's first official single, releasing this Friday, is a rock anthem born from his experience with the Iranian regime. It's not against faith—it's against using religion to justify oppression. The song's message: *“If that's what your religion is, I'm breaking my allegiance.”* The Immigrant's Oath: Integrate, Follow Rules, Be Grateful Bernard offers a powerful perspective on immigration: he never hid his roots, but he worked tirelessly to learn English, pay taxes, and contribute. His advice to new immigrants? “If you want to chase a better life, respect what this country has to offer.” Show Notes 2:35

We bring together three leading experts to explore the state of broadband access in rural Pennsylvania and why it matters now more than ever. Featuring Zachary Adams (Center for Rural Pennsylvania), Jim Ladlee (Penn State), and Dr. Christopher Ali (Penn State), the conversation dives into how internet connectivity has evolved from a luxury to an essential service that underpins education, healthcare, business, and everyday life.In recognition of National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, this episode highlights the vital role of speech-language pathology and the life-changing impact of communication sciences and disorders. Guests from Marywood University—including students Bethany Burns and Cassandra “Cassie” Juliano, along with Associate Professor Andrea Novak—share insights into the field and the next generation of clinicians.

Neil Theise (thee-ss) is adjunct professor of pathology at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Through his scientific research, he has been a pioneer of adult stem cell plasticity and the anatomy of the human interstitium.  Dr. Theise's book, "Notes on Complexity: A Scientific Theory of Connection, Consciousness, and Being" calls on his studies in complexity theory to address topics such as consciousness studies and science-religion dialogue.  Recently his scientific understandings of integrative medicine have been highlighted in the New York Times, on The Telepathy Tapes, and soon in the documentary, "Phenomena Healing."  His next book, "Sarah in the In-Between", relating his mother's elder years' adventures in non-local consciousness will be published by Spiegel & Grau in 2027.  Neil's WebsiteNeil's Book: Notes On ComplexityMore on Interstitum:NY TimesRadiolabForthcoming:Phenomena Healing PodcastPhenomena Healing DocumentarySupport the show

In this episode of the AviaDev Insight Africa podcast, we delve into the strategies African airports can adopt to enhance non-aeronautical revenues and attract investment. Save the below infographic for more insights and join us at AviaDev in Botswana for further discussions. Hosted by Jon Howell, this episode features insights from Nelly Alandou, Jody Appollis, and Adam Ekman Pedersen of the NACO team. Discover how African airports can diversify revenue streams and become economic hubs. Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 01:21 - Meet the NACO Team 02:42 - Revenue Stream diversification 04:17 - Non-Aeronautical Revenue opportunities for airports 06:18 - Real Estate Opportunities for Airports 08:28 - Economic Feasibility and Investment 11:15 - Network Positioning and Connectivity 14:37 - Land Use Planning Challenges 17:23 - Governance and Economic Infrastructure 22:26 - Upcoming Aviadev Panel Discussion If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share to help spread the word about the rising opportunities in African aviation. CONNECT WITH JODY CONNECT WITH ADAM CONNECT WITH NELLY

Welcome to the May 2026 AviaDev Connectivity Update! Join host Jon Howell, Founder and CEO of AviaDev Africa, joined by Regular Guests and Aviation Consultants, Sean Mendis and Behramjee Ghadially as they dive into the latest developments in African aviation. TOPICS:  00:00 - Introduction and Overview 01:28 - Virgin Atlantic doubles down on South Africa 04:16 - KLM quietly grows Cape Town capacity 08:43 - South African Airways: new CEO, fresh cuts 16:56 - Airlink launches Cape Town–Zanzibar nonstop 25:27 - Turkish Airlines slashes African routes  35:43 - Qatar Airways' Return to Africa 39.24 - Air Tanzania's big ambitions 51:58 - Uganda Airlines' Operational Challenges 58:43 - Kenya Airways: what's new and next? 66:05 - Jambojet's low-cost regional push 76:16 - Air Botswana's Operational Issues 81:57 - Africa World Airlines eyes Conakry 83:54 - Ethiopian Airlines expands globally/ Air Congo's rapid expansion in the DRC/ Malawi Airlines adds Lubumbashi 93:49 - Air Peace cuts long-haul, buys narrowbodies 103:28 - United Nigeria eyes Johannesburg (exclusive) 106:29 - Air Côte d'Ivoire's Johannesburg Route  

We talk to Brad Hintze, EVP of Global Customer Success & Marketing for Crestron about what they will have in store for booth C7300 in the Central Hall. We also discuss their latest collaboration with Barcelona's Spotify Camp Nou stadium and the power of AV over IP systems.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if aviation's real problem was never bandwidth?    When airlines deploy new connectivity systems, installations can take years across an operational fleet. But satellite connectivity ecosystems are now evolving far faster than traditional aviation deployment cycles.    In this episode of SSPI's From Connectivity to Intelligence series, Mike Moeller, SVP of Aviation at Quvia, discusses what happens when rapidly changing connectivity environments collide with the realities of commercial aviation infrastructure.    Drawing on more than two decades in in-flight connectivity, Mike explores the industry's transition through GEO, Ka-band, Ku-band, LEO, and increasingly complex multi-orbit environments.    The topic locks in a core insight: by the time a connectivity upgrade reaches an entire fleet, the connectivity landscape itself may already have changed. Quvia has a solution. 

Chair: Akanksha Soni, news editor Speakers:    Steven Calder, head of connected buildings  Bob Allen RCDD, director – smart buildings, Block Solutions For today's occupiers, a building is only as good as its heartbeat: the digital connectivity that keeps their business alive. In this episode, we sit down with Elevate to explore how they are redefining the relationship between landlords, agents and occupiers. We move past the traditional "four-month wait" for fibre and look at how smart infrastructure, like London's innovative rooftop wireless networks, is creating zero-risk connectivity through "Ground to Cloud" resiliency. We'll dive into the story of the Preconnect® model, a partnership-led approach that removes the headache of individual installations and learn more about the Wayleave agreements that enable landlords to offer "moving-in ready" connectivity, a powerful lever for occupancy and asset value. Join us as we discuss why the future of the smart building isn't just about the hidden digital backbone or the cables in the walls, but the partnerships that ensure a tenant's first day in a new office is their most productive one. 

What happens when Widex adds a dedicated AI chip to its signature natural sound platform?Andrew Bellavia travels to WSA headquarters in Copenhagen for an early hands-on look at the new Widex Allure AI RIC and Compass Cloud 2.0. Andrew sits down with Sonnie Harris and Karen Hougs from WSA for an in-depth discussion on the technology behind the new Widex Allure AI RIC, Compass Cloud 2.0, and the future direction of the Widex platform. Along the way, he shares his impressions after testing the devices in restaurants, hotel bars, live music venues, and other real-world listening environments.Topics discussed include:How the new Allure AI RIC builds upon the existing Widex Allure platformWidex's approach to AI and why the company resisted “artificial” sounding processingThe new Clarity Boost mode and real-world speech-in-noise performance• PureSound processing and low-delay audio designMusic listening impressions from jazz, rock, and classical concertsAuracast readiness, LE Audio, and connectivity updatesBattery life and dual-chip architectureCompass Cloud 2.0 and how clinician feedback shaped the new workflow updatesThe future of cloud-based fitting systems and personalized hearing careAndrew also compares the Allure AI RIC with other premium hearing aids during real-world listening experiences, with a particular focus on live music performance and listening comfort.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

In the engineering world, we rely on sensors to acquire data from real-world processes and machines. Deciding how to use that data is very important. The right decisions impact process efficiency, system reliability, and even worker safety.   Join Control.com's David Peterson as he chats with Kate Sokolnicki of Rockwell Automation in this episode of the Moore's Lobby podcast. Sokolnicki explains the evolution of industrial sensing and the shift toward data-driven manufacturing.  They discuss many key technological advancements, including: -IO-Link as a standard: Simple sensors are transitioning into "smart" devices that provide dual-channel feedback—process data and health analytics—without typical price premiums. -Commoditized vision AI: High-end vision systems are being replaced by affordable cameras capable of quality checks and AI-driven processing at the edge or in the cloud. -Smart safety protocols: Learn how operators can now pinpoint specific faults in a daisy-chained system (e.g., identifying exactly which door is ajar), significantly reducing troubleshooting time. Sokolnicki notes that while AI is powerful, it requires robust metadata (machine, shift, and location context) to be actionable. She highlights how condition monitoring—such as tracking "heartbeats," sensor margins, or cable tension—allows plants to move from reactive repairs to proactive maintenance. She concludes by encouraging young engineers to prioritize back-of-the-napkin math and the common-sense test. Instead of relying solely on theoretical calculations, she advocates for interrogating results to ensure they align with physical reality. Rockwell Automation is committed to enabling the next generation of smart manufacturing. Under their Allen-Bradley brand, Rockwell has a broad portfolio of high-performance sensors and switches. This includes proximity and photoelectric sensors, limit switches, safety switches, and RFID and operator safety devices.  Meet Kate Sokolnicki Kate Sokolnicki is the Global Business Director for Rockwell Automation's Sensing & Safety business unit and serves as the site lead for Rockwell's Chelmsford, MA location. She oversees product portfolio strategy and is responsible for global sales growth.  Kate joined Rockwell in 2015 as a product specialist and was promoted to portfolio manager supporting Sensing, Safety, and Connectivity. Most recently, she was a business manager responsible for in-cabinet infrastructure products, including single-pair Ethernet/IP.  Prior to joining Rockwell, Kate worked in the biomedical industry as an applications engineer. Kate holds a BSc in Chemical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and lives in Chelmsford, MA. 

Join Host Paul Spain and Bill Bennett, tech and telecommunications journalist, for a wide-ranging discussion on the latest tech news from New Zealand and beyond, including:Car-sharing startup Mevo goes into liquidationRural connectivity funding reportMobile Network Outages and ResiliencyHydrogen-fuelled vehicles in New ZealandChrome's Silent AI DownloadAI backlash at US university graduationsApple's privacy moves to auto-delete Siri/AI conversationsIntel Core Ultra Series 3A big thank you to our show partners One NZ, Spark, Workday, 2degrees, Fortinet and Gorilla Technology.

This week on the Mr. Beacon Podcast, I talk with Art Tkachenko about enabling Bluetooth devices to communicate directly with satellites. We explore Hubble's hybrid terrestrial and satellite IoT network, ultra-low-cost global asset tracking, beamforming technology, AI-assisted engineering, and the future of Ambient IoT. It's a fascinating look at how space-based connectivity could dramatically expand what's possible for connected devices worldwide.Art's Top 3 Songs:“Don't Stop Me Now” by Queen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MHi9mKq0slA“Mushroom Jazz” by Mark Farina: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6k0FlHGrZE “Bicycle” by VAVAN: youtube.com/watch?v=9HNorccyEno&feature=youtu.be Mister Beacon is hosted by Steve Statler, CEO of ambientChat.ai — Using AI to connect people with places and products with an app that puts you in control of YOUR data.Our sponsor is Identiv https://www.identiv.com, whose IoT solutions create digital identities for physical objects, enhancing global connectivity for businesses, people, and the planet. We are also sponsored by Blecon http://www.blecon.net. Blecon who delivers asset tracking and condition monitoring using the devices your team already carries. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Is it not a joy to have friends come from afar?" Confucius once said.The ancient Chinese saying offers a fitting note as China welcomes Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday for his 14th visit to the country since 2013.Putin used the same phrase when recalling his first meeting with Xi Jinping, then Chinese vice-president, in Moscow in March 2010. The meeting, he wrote in a signed article published in People's Daily in 2023, was held in a "business-like and at the same time sincere and friendly" atmosphere — a style of communication that he said he personally liked.Three years following the early encounter, Xi chose Russia as the destination of his first overseas trip after taking office as Chinese president in 2013, underscoring the special weight of China-Russia relations in China's foreign policy.During that visit, President Xi said that a high-level and strong China-Russia relationship serves not only the interests of both countries, but also the international strategic balance as well as world peace and stability.More than a decade later, the two leaders are meeting again at another important moment.Putin's two-day state visit, at the invitation of Xi, comes in a landmark year marking the 30th anniversary of the China-Russia strategic partnership of coordination and the 25th anniversary of the signing of the China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation."China-Russia relations are standing at a new historical starting point. The two sides are entering a golden period of opportunity marked by stronger political trust, deeper economic integration, closer people-to-people ties and greater global influence," said Li Yonghui, a research fellow of Russian studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.She said that Putin's visit is not only a review of decades of neighborly friendship and strategic coordination, but also an opportunity for the two sides to plan the next stage of cooperation under the guidance of the two heads of state.Andrey Denisov, first deputy chair of the Russian Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs and former Russian ambassador to China, said that Putin's upcoming visit will once again demonstrate the high level and stability of Russia-China relations.He said Russia-China relations are not an alliance in the traditional sense, but the two sides maintain a high degree of mutual trust and close coordination on major international issues, which he described as the essence of the relationship.The momentum of China-Russia ties has been shaped by more than a decade of frequent head-of-state diplomacy. Since 2013, Xi has visited Russia 11 times, while Putin has traveled to China 13 times for state visits or major events. Last year, the two leaders paid state visits to each other's countries, underscoring the intensity and continuity of top-level exchanges.In a signed article published in Russian media in 2023, Xi said that high-level interactions have played an important strategic guiding role in China-Russia relations.Xi noted that he and Putin had maintained close working contact and met 40 times on bilateral and international occasions, drawing blueprints for bilateral ties and cooperation in various fields, and maintaining timely coordination on major international and regional issues of common concern.In his New Year greetings exchanged with Putin on Dec 31, 2025, Xi said he was ready to maintain close contact with Putin and jointly lead China-Russia relations in the new era toward new achievements.During a virtual meeting on Feb 4 this year, Xi noted that the day coincided with the Beginning of Spring on the Chinese calendar, which represents a new start, and expressed his readiness to work with Putin to chart a new blueprint for bilateral ties.Xi also called on the two sides to increase high-level exchanges and strengthen pragmatic cooperation in various fields.Li, from the CASS, said the frequent interactions between the two presidents have helped the two sides build consensus, set the direction of the relationship and maintain strategic steadiness despite fluctuations in the international situation."Each meeting helps reaffirm mutual support on issues concerning sovereignty, security, territorial integrity and independent development paths," she said, adding that such political mutual trust serves as a key anchor for the steady and long-term development of China-Russia relations.The close communication between the two heads of state has also helped translate political trust into practical cooperation, Li added.One notable example is trade, where top-level consensus has been translated into measurable progress. China-Russia trade exceeded $240 billion in 2024, meeting ahead of schedule the $200 billion target set by the two heads of state.People-to-people tiesThe two sides have also continued to expand cooperation in areas such as energy, agriculture, connectivity, education and people-to-people exchanges. The China-Russia Years of Education, to be launched this year, are expected to provide another platform for closer exchanges between young people from both countries.Denisov, the Russian diplomat, noted that China and Russia once set a goal of increasing two-way student exchanges to 100,000. "At the time, it seemed almost out of reach, but today it has become a reality," he said.Youth exchanges carry special significance for the long-term development of bilateral relations, he said, adding that he hopes that more young people from the two countries will participate in educational and cultural cooperation, and deepen mutual understanding and friendship through such exchanges.Andrey Kortunov, former director-general of the Russian International Affairs Council, wrote in a recent CGTN commentary that trust defines what is possible in relations among major powers.In the case of China-Russia relations, he said that strong personal relations between the two top leaders add to the stability and predictability of bilateral ties.Li, the CASS researcher, said that at a time of geopolitical conflicts and global uncertainty, the steady development of China-Russia relations serves as an important pillar for global strategic balance.Close communication between the two heads of state allows the two sides to exchange views in a timely manner, coordinate positions, manage differences and safeguard their core interests, she said. It also helps translate top-level consensus into cooperation across various fields."Such high-level engagement uses the certainty of head-of-state diplomacy to offset the uncertainty of the international environment," Li said, adding that it helps consolidate the foundation for regional and global peace and development.• Underscore /ˌʌndəˈskɔː/强调，在...之下画线• Strategic partnership of coordination /strəˈtiːdʒɪk ˈpɑːtnəʃɪp əv kəʊˌɔːdɪˈneɪʃn/战略协作伙伴关系• Pragmatic /præɡˈmætɪk/务实的，实际的• Fluctuation /ˌflʌktʃuˈeɪʃn/波动，起伏• Connectivity /ˌkɒnekˈtɪvəti/互联互通

Analysts Don Kellogg and Roger Entner discuss the new satellite joint venture agreement in principle between Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, exploring its massive implications for satellite providers and consumers alike.00:00 Episode intro 00:25 Details of the potential joint venture 02:23 Universal connectivity is on the horizon 03:36 Implications for Starlink 05:37 The U.S. may set the global standard 06:18 Are the coverage wars over? 08:22 Future satellite tech upgrades 09:23 Intent does not always materialize 10:13 Episode wrap-upTags: telecom, telecommunications, wireless, prepaid, postpaid, cellular phone, Don Kellogg, Roger Entner, AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, D2D, device-to-device, spectrum, satellite, rural, dead zones, AST, Leo, Starlink, Elon Musk, coverage, urban, 5G, VoLTE, video

From a chance meeting on a plane to recording a podcast episode, this week Conrad interviews wildlife biologist Adam Hensley. Adam shares how a childhood love for fishing evolved into a career studying fish, insects, and entire ecosystems—highlighting the power of curiosity, asking questions, and embracing a non-linear path. From switching out of criminal justice to discovering aquatic ecology, his story shows how unexpected pivots can lead to meaningful work. The conversation explores Adam's graduate research in Alaska, where he studied Dolly Varden in extreme Arctic environments. With constant water temperatures but dramatic seasonal light changes, his work reveals how fish adapt to survive harsh winters—showing just how interconnected ecosystems truly are. Along the way, Adam shares unforgettable field experiences—from helicopter access to remote tundra streams to observing wildlife like wolverines and massive fish populations—bringing listeners into the reality of field-based science. The episode wraps with reflections on career growth, resilience through rejection, and the importance of staying open to opportunities. The biggest takeaway: everything is connected—whether in nature, science, or life—and following curiosity can lead you exactly where you're meant to be. #dollyvarden #arctic #salmonid #aquaticmacroinvertebrates #flyfishing Instagram:adamchensley Email: achensley@crimson.ua.edu Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).”  

This week on ‘The Write Question,' in anticipation of her tour in Montana (Missoula, Bozeman, and Livingston), and in anticipation of NPR's Climate Solutions Week, host Lauren Korn speaks with Hillary Rosner, author of ‘Roam: Wild Animals and the Race to Repair Our Fractured World' (Patagonia Books).

This week on ‘The Write Question,' in anticipation of her tour in Montana (Missoula, Bozeman, and Livingston), and in anticipation of NPR's Climate Solutions Week, host Lauren Korn speaks with Hillary Rosner, author of ‘Roam: Wild Animals and the Race to Repair Our Fractured World' (Patagonia Books).

In this episode, Jeff Mo, U.S. mid-cap portfolio manager, explores a fundamental shift in how economies may grow over the next decade. He makes the case that after 25 years of intangible, internet-driven expansion, growth may increasingly depend on building physical things again: data centers, electrical infrastructure, factories, defense systems, satellites. Jeff walks through the forces driving this transition, from AI's voracious appetite for capital to geopolitical tensions reshaping supply chains and defense spending. The conversation examines how these macro themes connect to bottom-up stock selection, where the U.S. mid-cap team is finding opportunities today, and why maintaining inherent contradictions in the portfolio remains essential even as thematic investing dominates market behavior. • Why producing one unit of GDP today requires about a third as much oil as in the 1970s, yet capital expenditure per unit of GDP growth may be rising as the economy shifts from intangible services back toward physical infrastructure and manufacturing. • How AI data center buildouts, reshoring of manufacturing, rising defense budgets, and the expanding space economy are all driving higher demand for physical capital, commodities, and industrial capacity after a decade of underinvestment. • How the hyperscalers (Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta) are moving from massive net cash positions to net debt as they fund AI infrastructure, tightening capital availability for the rest of the economy and potentially raising interest rates and dampening consumer spending. • Where the U.S. mid-cap team is finding opportunities aligned with these themes, from companies like Northrop Grumman, SanDisk, and OSI Systems, while maintaining portfolio balance through inherent contradictions. • Why humility matters most when contemplating big-picture themes: the goal isn't predicting the future but building a diversified portfolio of wealth-creating companies that can withstand multiple scenarios.   [00:00] Introduction: From Intangible to Physical Economy [00:50] Opening Discussion with Jeff Moe [01:42] Oil Efficiency vs. Rising CapEx Requirements [03:39] Economic Growth: Labor, Capital, and Productivity [04:11] Infrastructure Investment and Reshoring Trends [06:52] Defense Spending and Capital Intensity [07:08] The Space Economy: Satellites and Connectivity [11:00] Memory Market Dynamics and Contract Changes [12:22] Cyclicality in a Capital-Intensive Economy [15:04] Consumption vs. Investment: Portfolio Implications [17:44] Connecting Themes to Bottom-Up Research [18:44] Idea Generation and Stock Selection Process [21:32] Winners and Losers: The Bits to Atoms Trade [22:00] Portfolio Construction: Inherent Contradictions [25:21] Where the Theme Might Be Wrong [26:09] Long-Term Wealth Creation and Economic Optimism [28:18] Closing and Subscription Information Host: Rob Campbell, CFA Institutional Portfolio Manager Guest: Jeff Mo, CFA Portfolio Manager This episode is available for download anywhere you get your podcasts.   Visit us at: https://www.youtube.com/@MawerInvestment https://www.mawer.com  https://www.linkedin.com/company/mawer-investment-management/  https://www.instagram.com/mawerinvestmentmanagement/   Founded in 1974, Mawer Investment Management Ltd. (pronounced "more") is a privately owned independent investment firm managing assets for institutional and individual investors. Mawer employs over 250 people in Canada, U.S., and Singapore.   #ArtOfBoring #MawerInvestmentManagement #MawerInvestment #Podcasts #capitalmarkets #geopoliticalinvesting #commodityMarkets #capitalexpenditure #physicalEconomy #GDPGrowth

Comcast Business CTO, Nitel Connectivity and Platforms, Fleming Shi, explores how AI is changing connectivity requirements across training, inference, edge computing, and cybersecurity. As autonomous systems scale, what infrastructure and operational challenges will providers need to solve next? In this Executives at the Edge episode, host Pascal Menezes explores these topics and more with Fleming... Read More The post Edge Decisions: Redefining the Connectivity Layer appeared first on Mplify Alliance.

Casey is known as “The Ideal Networker”, and has made it his mission over the years to collect and connect: he collects relationships and connects people so they can do business together. His Mastermind program, called 'The Platinum Inner Circle', creates massive results for the businesses that participate and follow his guidance. With members in numerous verticals and locations, the Inner Circle provides one of the most diverse Results-Driven programs available anywhere in the world.

In this episode, David Edwards, Chief Technology Officer, Relatient, shares how improving connectivity is unlocking innovation, where AI is delivering measurable value today, and why voice AI is transforming patient access and operational efficiency. He also discusses responsible AI adoption in healthcare and the importance of aligning technology with real business problems.This episode is sponsored by Relatient.

Imagine it's 1960, you smell smoke, and the life-saving three-digit magic of 911 doesn't exist. This week, join me Marcos as I'm uncovering the secret history of the "Neuralyzers"—the N11 phone lines that silently prevent our modern communication grid from collapsing into total chaos. From the heroic "Hello Girls" of the manual switchboard era to the AI-powered future of emergency dispatch, discover how the world's shortest phone book became our ultimate lifeline. #911History #N11 #TechHistory----------------------------------------------Follow & Support:Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-tech-and-sundry/id1527317641Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/4rC6bZ2W1mI7z8Zz8Zz8ZzYouTube – Search @LTSnco in any search bar on YouTube to find us.IG – https://bit.ly/IG-LTSLTS on X – https://bit.ly/LTSTweetsBuy Me Coffee – https://www.buymeacoffee.com/LTS2020----------------------------------------------Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Emergency Communication01:24 The Evolution of Emergency Numbers03:31 The Role of Operators in Early Telecommunications05:41 The Birth of 911 and Its Impact07:37 The N11 Family: Specialized Emergency Lines09:56 The Technology Behind Emergency Calls13:05 The Future of Emergency Communication20:13 Conclusion and Reflection on Connectivity

Get the latest on smart home industry events, product updates, and new tech launches as Shane Whatley and Andrew discuss everything from the Connectivity Standards Alliance's upcoming public event, HomeBridge 2.0, to new Govee floor lamps and SwitchBot fans. Whether you're a casual enthusiast or a tinkering DIYer, this episode covers essential updates and practical insights to keep your smart home ahead.Main Topics:Upcoming Connectivity Standards Alliance event: What it means for smart home interoperabilityHomebridge v2.0: New features, Matter support, and use casesLatest on smart lighting: Govee Floor Lamp 3, Nanoleaf, and Hue optionsNew sensors and device updates: Aqara FP400 leak detector and W200 thermostat enhancementsReview and comparison of high-end smart speakers: Denon Home vs. Apple HomePodSwitchBot circulating fan: Connectivity, Matter support, and real-world application challengesSend me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at:@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by:CleanMyMac: Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code SMARTHOME for 20% off at https://clnmy.com/SMARTHOME.Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/homekitSmart Home Insider YouTube ChannelSubscribe to the Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the showShane Whatley YouTubeCSA Unify 2026Homebridge 2.0Aqara W200 ThermostatGovee Floor Lamp 3Nanoleaf Floor LampSwitchBot Circulating Standing FanThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

What's on your mind? Let CX Passport know...What happens when a pensions company decides to fight regulatory complexity with game shows, cartoons, and podcasts? Claire Bristowe made it work ... and has 30,000 hours of employee participation, six gold awards, and a two-month waitlist for live call listening to show for it.What you'll learn in this episode:How regulation in financial services became a CX asset, not a barrierWhy fun was the only strategy that could reach the disengagedWhat 53 research sessions taught Claire before she launched anythingHow live call listening creates accountability that outlasts the sessionWhy one sentence in a letter was worth 1.3 FTECHAPTERS00:00 Regulation as a CX asset in financial services02:53 Bringing customers into legal document design05:42 64 customers applied to review three documents08:35 Why fun became the strategy ... and how it was chosen11:55 Where Claire actually started: 53 research sessions13:51 Live call listening: the highest-engaged initiative16:00 First Class Lounge19:08 Targeting the disengaged ... not just the willing22:10 Balancing immediate reaction with long-term roadmap23:21 The promoter team: 34 colleagues across the business25:48 Accountability after the session ends28:20 Small changes, real financial results30:14 Connectivity as a CX team's hidden valueConnect with Claire Bristowe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-bristowe-ccxp-102026135/Listen: https://www.cxpassport.com Watch: https://www.youtube.com/@cxpassport Newsletter: https://cxpassport.kit.com/signupI'm Rick Denton and I believe the best meals are served outside and require a passport.This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests and should not be taken as legal, financial, or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney, financial advisor, or other professional regarding your specific situation. The opinions expressed by guests are solely theirs and do not necessarily represent the views or positions of the host(s).

Dr. Richard Davidson, PhD, is a professor of psychology and psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a pioneer in the scientific study of meditation. We discuss how meditation changes your brain and body, how just 5 minutes daily can improve focus, stress resilience and your overall health, and we cover different types of meditation. We also address common myths such as the idea that meditation is to "clear your mind." And we discuss common challenges with meditation and how to overcome them. This episode offers both the science and the practical tools to build a consistent meditation practice to improve your mental and physical health and help you flourish. The episode show notes are available at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman David: https://davidprotein.com/huberman Eight Sleep: https://eightsleep.com/huberman Joovv: https://joovv.com/huberman Waking Up: https://wakingup.com/huberman Timestamps (00:00:00) Richard "Richie" Davidson (00:03:33) States of Mind vs Traits (00:09:06) Wakeful Brain Activity vs Deep Sleep (00:11:55) Sponsors: David & Eight Sleep (00:14:31) Brain Activity Across Sleep, Wakefulness, Meditation & Insight (00:19:27) Mediation & Sleep Compensation?; Meditation Timing & Liminal States (00:23:05) Types of Mediation, Shifting from Thinking to Being (00:28:32) Self-Monitoring, Undistracted Non-Mediation, "Stickiness" (00:35:30) Tool: Beginning Daily Meditation, "Richie's 5 Meditation"; Health Benefits (00:39:39) Meditation Practice History, Kindness & Nurturing Goodness (00:45:07) Sponsor: AG1 (00:46:31) Beginners, Expect Chaos in Mind, Exercise & Lactate Analogy (00:52:47) Tool: Beginning Mediation, Embrace Anxiety; Meta-Awareness, Flow (00:57:51) Creativity; Capturing Thoughts, Unconscious Mind (01:03:03) Meditation for Kids; Flourishing, Tool: Parent & Teacher Meditation (01:10:12) Sponsor: Joovv (01:11:34) Beyond Stimulus & Response (01:14:22) Meditation Need; Gaining Insight Into Mind, Transcendence (01:18:00) Contemplating Death, Long-Term Meditation (01:21:33) Richie's Meditation Practice; Tools: Pairing Meditation, Appreciation Practice (01:26:07) Consistency, Balancing Discipline vs Surrender (01:29:52) Social Media & Validating Existence, Digital Hygiene (01:37:31) Meditation & Impulsivity; Discipline & "No Go's", Phone (01:42:08) Physical Discomfort & Pain During Meditation; Retreat Practice (01:46:50) Phone Detox, Self-Control (01:52:07) Sponsor: Waking Up (01:53:29) Overcoming Resistance, Making Peace With Your Mind (01:58:37) Meditation & Connectivity; Consistency, Prayer; Sleepiness; Meta-Awareness (02:05:49) Tools: Pillars of Flourishing; Appreciation Practice, Loving-Kindness Practice (02:15:39) Awareness & Insight, Tools: Outside View; Task Connection (02:19:43) Cultivating Flourishing, Familiarity with Resistance (02:25:23) Psychedelics, Guides, Clinical vs Non-Clinical Use (02:32:15) Neuromodulation & Meditation, Sleep; Tool: Pre-Sleep Meditation (02:37:25) Open Monitoring Meditation & Creativity (02:41:12) Zero-Cost Support, YouTube, Spotify & Apple Follow, Reviews & Feedback, Sponsors, Protocols Book, Social Media, Neural Network Newsletter Disclaimer & Disclosures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices