Podcasts about consumers

It's EV News Briefly for Thursday 09 October 2025, everything you need to know in less than 5 minutes if you haven't got time for the full show. Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the EV News Daily Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/EVNewsDaily MERCEDES EV SALES RETURN TO GROWTH https://evne.ws/4ogQtTX NEW INVESTMENT TO HELP MUNRO EV SCALE M‑SERIES PRODUCTION https://evne.ws/48mukyO NEW TESLA MODEL Y STANDARD TRIM MAY COME TO THE UK https://evne.ws/42SNysn HOW TESLA MODEL Y MATCHES UP AGAINST FORD MUSTANG MACH‑E https://evne.ws/4o36xIK NISSAN OFFERS ROGUE-BASED E-POWER TO RIVALS https://evne.ws/42w801W WEAVEGRID AND LG VENTURES PARTNER ON GRID-INTERACTIVE EVS https://evne.ws/4oaqa1l VOLVO Q3 SALES SEE RISING EV SHARE AMID FALLING DELIVERIES  https://evne.ws/42y7Irk EV INTEREST MAY STAY STABLE AFTER TAX CREDIT END https://evne.ws/4oa0Sk8 LEAPMOTOR B10 TO LAUNCH IN UK  https://evne.ws/47bTQ8N GERMANY'S GREEN LEADER CRITICISES MERZ ON EV POLICY https://evne.ws/46ZCLxu INSTAVOLT UK IS UPGRADING ITS CHARGERS  https://evne.ws/4o6q1Mr CROSS-PAVEMENT EV CHARGING NOW ALLOWED IN NORTHERN IRELAND https://evne.ws/4mR6sqt AMPERE CONFIRMS 40% EV COST CUT TARGET https://evne.ws/48hPyOh BMW LAUNCHES ELECTRIC STANDUP PADDLE BOARD https://evne.ws/4pZqQs7 Mercedes-Benz EV sales return to growth   Mercedes-Benz achieved a 9% year-on-year increase in Q3 2025 electric sales after six straight quarters of decline, thanks to strong CLA demand. Electric vans also surged nearly 96% year-over-year, positioning Mercedes for further EV momentum with new models coming next year.   Munro EV scales M‑Series production   Scottish automaker Munro EV is expanding its Glasgow plant with new funding to boost M‑Series all-terrain EV production and create up to 300 jobs. The investment supports plans to build up to 5,000 rugged electric vehicles annually and strengthen Scotland's return to vehicle manufacturing.   Tesla Model Y Standard trim for UK   Tesla's new Standard trim Model Y, recently launched in the US, could reach the UK by 2026 offering improved efficiency and a lower entry price. Starting near £44,000, the new version provides a smooth, efficient design update while keeping the range close to 365 miles WLTP.   Nissan e‑Power supply plans   Nissan plans to supply its Rogue-based hybrid using e‑Power technology to partners like Ford and Stellantis to expand electrified options. The move could boost production at its Tennessee plant and give other automakers an affordable route to add hybrid powertrains.   WeaveGrid and LG Ventures partnership   LG Ventures has invested in WeaveGrid to develop smarter, grid‑interactive EV charging solutions. The partnership combines LG's battery technology with WeaveGrid's AI software to optimize energy use and strengthen grid reliability as EV adoption grows.   Volvo Q3 EV share rises  Volvo's U.S. EV deliveries jumped 71% year-over-year in Q3 2025 even as total sales dipped 9%, driven by the EX30 and EX90 models. Electrified vehicles now make up a growing share of Volvo's lineup, underscoring its steady shift to full electrification.   EV demand remains solid post‑credit   A J.D. Power report finds U.S. EV interest holding steady even as federal tax credits phase out, suggesting stable long-term demand. Consumers increasingly cite improved choice, charging access and quality as the main reasons for considering electric vehicles.  Leapmotor B10 UK launch  Leapmotor debuts the B10 electric crossover in the UK from under £30,000, boosted by a manufacturer “Leap Grant.” With 270 miles of range, rapid 168 kW charging, and premium equipment, the B10 extends affordable EV options across 53 UK dealerships.   Greens criticise Merz EV stance   German Green leader Katharina Dröge criticised Chancellor Merz's call to abandon the EU's 2035 combustion engine ban, calling it damaging to industry progress. She urged stronger EV incentives, more charging infrastructure, and social leasing to keep Germany competitive in the global transition.   InstaVolt upgrading UK chargers   InstaVolt has begun nationwide upgrades replacing older 50 kW units with faster, more accessible 120 kW chargers. The new design shortens charge times and improves convenience, backed by renewable power and near‑perfect network reliability.   Cross‑pavement charging in Northern Ireland   Northern Ireland now allows residents without driveways to install cross‑pavement home charging channels for EVs. The scheme offers much cheaper charging than public points, helping hundreds of thousands access affordable home charging for the first time.   Ampere confirms 40% cost‑cut target   Renault's EV unit Ampere reaffirmed its goal to reduce EV costs by 40% by 2028 while reaching break-even in 2025. Success would strengthen Renault's competitiveness and make its next generation of electric models more affordable.   BMW electric paddle board  BMW and SipaBoards have launched an electric self‑inflating stand‑up paddle board featuring modular batteries and digital controls. Priced at €3,990, the innovative board combines quiet motorization, safety features, and app connectivity for water sports enthusiasts.

There's a clear trend in how people are shopping today. Consumers of all income levels are seeking out bargains, changing where and how they buy everyday goods - a Clark smart reaction to inflation & tariff effects. Also today - You may need a cure for what ails you, but don't trust medical ads you see online. Scammers are using AI and other manipulative tools to pitch FAKE healthcare products that appear to be endorsed by medical professionals. Financial and physical harm can result.  Mindful Shopping: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Fake Medical Ads Online: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Axios: Dollar General shows even the affluent are seeking bargains 80-10-10 Mortgage: Meaning, Benefits and Examples The Secret to Avoiding PMI and 20% Down? A Piggyback Loan NYTimes: The Doctors Are Real, but the Sales Pitches Are Frauds What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? The Lancet | The best science for better lives Virtual Credit Cards: An Online Security Measure Worth Taking? 5 Things To Do Before You Sign Up for a Free Trial Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Download for Mobile | Podcast Preview | Full Timestamps Older Twitch VODs are now being uploaded to the new channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CastleSuperBeastArchive Parking Lot Furi: Why No White Stranger? Fk Bilewater, Fk Bilehaven, F**k Groal Every Stupid Change Xbox Just Announced 2XKO Sticker Shock (in Canadian Dollars) Gaslight Yourself Against Selfish @$$holes Watch live: twitch.tv/castlesuperbeast Go to http://shopify.com/superbeast to sign up for your $1-per-month trial period. - Level up your game and get 10% off @TurtleBeach with code CASTLE at http://turtlebeach.com/castle #turtlebeachpod - One thing to pack, five ways to power! Get 10% Off @Ridge with code SUPERBEAST at https://ridge.com/SUPERBEAST #Ridgepod Nakayama clarifying that the dev team is separate from esports division on social media Robin Williams' Daughter Tells Fans to ‘Stop Sending Me AI Videos of Dad': It's ‘Gross' and ‘Not What He'd Want' Consumers must spend $800 billion on AI within a few years, to justify investment from 2023-24 THE FURI LIVE ACTION TV SHOW LOOKS LIKE DOGSHIT 2XKO Official Cinematic: Ties That Bind ft. Courtney LaPlante of Spiritbox Warwick 2XKO Gameplay Trailer 2XKO Season 0 Patch Notes: 1.0.1 One of Game Pass's hidden changes and arguably one of the most disgusting for the future of the hobby is that they are monetizing game quality and resolution. Good to know that Game Pass was generating billions in revenue AND profitable BEFORE increasing the price by 50% Microsoft is reportedly preparing to announce free Xbox Cloud Gaming with ads.There will be around two minutes of pre-roll ads before a game is available, and up to 5 hours of free game time a month Xbox Insider says future Xbox hardware is up in the air & may not happen despite their announcements Costco isn't going to be the only major retailer pulling Xbox., More massive layoffs coming - more price hikes coming, Full 3rd party software company is the future of Xbox

A new Redfin–Ipsos survey shows that 17% of Americans are delaying a major purchase—like a home or car—because of the federal government shutdown, while 7% have canceled plans entirely. But most say it's business as usual. In this episode, we break down how suspended paychecks, political gridlock, and economic uncertainty are affecting housing demand and buyer confidence across the country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Innovation Meets Leadership, Natalie Born sits down with Doug C. Brown, CEO of CEO Sales Strategies and a sales growth expert who has generated over $900M in revenue for clients worldwide. Doug reveals how math, metrics, and automation can transform any sales organization into a predictable growth engine. From reducing refund rates by spotting hidden blind spots, to building AI-driven automation that scales follow-up and accelerates closes, Doug brings decades of experience that will challenge how you see sales. If you want your team to stop “throwing spaghetti at the wall” and start building sustainable revenue systems, this episode is for you.[00:01 - 04:00] The Power of Math in SalesHow Doug discovered “holes” in sales systems through metrics.The Tony Robbins & Chet Holmes case study: reducing refund rates from 16% to under 1%.Why blind spots exist in every business—and how to find them.[04:01 - 10:00] Lessons from Early Business and LeadershipRunning his father's business at 16 and learning optimization early.The “flat tire” analogy: why outside perspectives reveal what leaders miss.How math tells a story that leads to better decisions.[10:01 - 14:00] Shifts in Sales Post-PandemicWhy the sales process has permanently changed.The rise of conversational selling.Consumers are more educated than ever—how to adapt.[14:01 - 19:00] Three Steps to Improve Your Sales Team TodayGet truthful goals from every salesperson.Define your ideal right-fit buyer (97% of companies don't).Start measuring simple sales metrics: outreach, connections, responses, closes.[19:01 - 24:00] Automation and the Fortune in Follow-UpWhy consistent follow-up unlocks 5–15% more revenue.Automating repetitive sales tasks with CRMs and AI.Real examples: insurance sales, concierge AI, SiriusXM upsell systems.[24:01 - 29:00] AI as a Sales Multiplier, Not a Job KillerRita, the AI concierge, and how it redefined customer experience.AI's role in profiling, research, and buyer engagement.Start small: automate one repetitive task, then scale.[29:01 - 31:00] Final Insights & How to Connect with DougPractical steps to embrace automation and AI in sales.Why ignoring sales automation means falling behind competitors.Quotes“Every company has blind spots. Use math and metrics to find untapped revenue.” – Doug C. Brown“Ninety-seven percent of companies don't know their ideal buyer. That's wasted money and effort.” – Doug C. Brown“The fortune is in the follow-up. Automate it, and you'll unlock growth you didn't know you had.” – Doug C. BrownGuest LinksWebsite: ceosalesstrategies.comLinkedIn: Doug BrownNewsletter: ceosalesstrategies.com/newsletterEmail: doug@ceosalesstrategies.comLEAVE A REVIEW + help someone scale their revenue with clarity and precision by sharing this episode or click here to catch up on past episodes.

Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss how the expansion of transatlantic joint ventures has affected the U.S.-to-Europe market. Consumers now have far more choices than ever before, as airlines are operating more flights than at any time in history. But with essentially just three groups setting the fares on transatlantic routes, Sumers and Snyder ask: Is the current paradigm a good one?If you would like our audience of airline executives and decision-makers to know about your company, please get in touch with us about sponsorship opportunities on The Air Show. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to learn more.

The Cybercrime Wire, hosted by Scott Schober, provides boardroom and C-suite executives, CIOs, CSOs, CISOs, IT executives and cybersecurity professionals with a breaking news story we're following. If there's a cyberattack, hack, or data breach you should know about, then we're on it. Listen to the podcast daily and hear it every hour on WCYB. The Cybercrime Wire is brought to you Cybercrime Magazine, Page ONE for Cybersecurity at https://cybercrimemagazine.com. • For more breaking news, visit https://cybercrimewire.com

Andy Hepburn is the Co-founder of NEOLAW LLC and General Counsel at SafeGuard Privacy. He is a privacy lawyer with deep experience helping clients in the digital advertising industry navigate complex privacy laws. In this episode… Global Privacy Control (GPC) is transforming the way companies approach consumer consent. The rise of state privacy laws has fueled an explosion of cookie consent banners and other consent mechanisms that tend to confuse consumers about what they're agreeing to. GPC, also known as a universal opt-out mechanism, offers a simpler alternative by allowing consumers to set their privacy permissions once for electronic tracking at the browser level. Yet, its current all-or-nothing design raises the question: Does a single switch reflect what consumers really want?  Some consumers want to block all digital tracking, while others are open to targeted ads in specific situations, like shopping for a car or clothing. Most consumers fall somewhere in between. Earlier attempts, like the Do Not Track initiative, received pushback from the advertising industry, which argued that a simple on/off switch was too limited in capturing the diversity of consumer privacy preferences. A more nuanced approach would let individuals accept targeted ads in some areas while blocking them in others. Industry standards, such as the Interactive Advertising Bureau's Global Privacy Platform and the Multi-State Privacy Agreement, are designed to help companies ensure that consumer privacy preferences are consistently applied across publishers, advertisers, and the numerous intermediaries in the ad ecosystem. As consumer pressure and regulatory enforcement actions intensify, this may accelerate the adoption of these standards across various industries.  In this episode of She Said Privacy/He Said Security, Jodi and Justin Daniels chat with Andy Hepburn, Co-founder of NEOLAW LLC and General Counsel at SafeGuard Privacy, about whether universal opt-out mechanisms meet the needs of today's consumers. Andy explains why a single opt-out switch falls short of consumer needs and what more flexible models could enable. He highlights how industry standards can help companies and their vendors transmit privacy preferences across the ad ecosystem and why adoption will depend on consumer pressure and regulatory enforcement actions. Andy also explores the challenges smaller companies face in meeting privacy compliance requirements and how cooperation among regulators could shape the next phase of privacy enforcement.

On this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray is joined by Ricardo Ghekiere, co-founder of BetterPic. Ricardo takes us through his unconventional entrepreneurial journey, starting with running a coffee bar, dabbling in a variety of ventures, and eventually making his way into the tech space. He shares the fascinating story of how he acquired BetterPic for just one dollar, rebuilt the company from the ground up, and scaled it into a thriving AI-powered business that transforms selfies into professional headshots. Ricardo talks about navigating the challenges of transitioning from a B2C to a B2B go-to-market strategy, lessons learned from his first fundraising efforts, and his approach to metrics and profitability. We also get a sneak peek into BetterPic's expansion into the fashion industry, their recent $2.5 million seed round, and Ricardo's candid insights on scaling, pricing, and international growth. Stick around for actionable advice, behind-the-scenes stories, and a look at what's next for BetterPic and its new ventures. Show Notes: 00:00 Difficulty Attracts Talent 03:25 "Consumer-First, Expand to B2B" 08:53 Startup Secures $2.5M Funding 12:38 "Finding the Right Investors" 15:22 "B2B CRM Essential for Upselling" 17:49 Pricing Experiment Insights 20:09 Monthly Business Metrics Overview 23:52 Business Acquisition in San Francisco Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/betterpic-raises-2-5-million-in-seed-round Ricardo Ghekiere's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-ghekiere/ BetterPic's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/betterpic/ BetterPic's Website: https://www.betterpic.io/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

If you work at a so-called laptop job, there are moments every day when your work feels silly, pointless, absurd, even fake. What if you wrote an entire book that tried to inhabit and analyze that very feeling? Leigh Claire LaBerge's new book—which is part memoir, part history, with a heavy dash of dark comedy and a sprinkling of Marx—attempts to do exactly that. Drawing on her time working inside of a corporate conglomerate, LaBerge alternatively revels in and eviscerates the inanity of day-to-day white collar life. Late capitalism, she shows, might just be one long joke. The question is: who's the joke on? Workers? Consumers? The planet? Listen to this month's episode to find out.

Retail is experiencing seismic shifts, and businesses that don't adapt risk becoming irrelevant overnight. In this compelling episode of Talk Commerce, recorded live from Shop Talk Fall in Chicago, host Isaac Morey sits down with Pano Anthos, founding member of XRC Ventures, to explore how agentic AI is reshaping consumer behavior and business operations. Their conversation reveals why traditional e-commerce strategies won't survive the next wave of technological disruption.About Pano AnthosPano serves as a founding member of XRC Ventures, an investment firm operating at the intersection of consumer behavior and technology. His expertise spans venture capital, retail innovation, and emerging technology trends that impact how businesses connect with customers. Pano's investment philosophy centers on understanding consumer adoption patterns to predict corporate technology trends. He's particularly focused on agentic AI applications across supply chain management, customer support, and e-commerce optimization. His insights come from years of observing how consumers embrace new technologies before enterprises catch up. Throughout his career, Pano has maintained that studying consumer behavior provides the clearest roadmap for understanding where business technology is headed next.Episode SummaryPano explains why XRC Ventures focuses on consumer behavior as a predictor of technological advancement. "Consumers are responsible for two trillion in spend and a massive portion of our GDP," he explains. "They tend to be relatively much faster early adopters of technology than corporations." This philosophy drives their investment strategy and provides unique insights into market direction.When discussing agentic AI, Pano breaks down the concept into four essential components: autonomous planning, adaptive reasoning, tool integration, and goal orientation. "AI to figure out the rules. You have to really lay out the rules first," he emphasizes. "That's the misconception of autonomous AI is that it will make decisions within boundaries. But you have to set those boundaries or you get nothing."The conversation takes a practical turn as Pano shares examples of agentic AI in action. He describes an investment opportunity involving supply chain automation where AI intercepts and processes manufacturer communications. "There's a very set of manual tasks today," he explains. "This team out of Israel has figured out how to automate using an LLM to basically take all those messages they're going back and forth and make decisions based on the rules that have been set by the organization."For small e-commerce businesses, Pano delivers stark advice about the changing landscape. "Your website is toast," he warns. "Unless you are a fashion-oriented product where discovery is important and inspiration is important and it's truly discretionary, the chat engines are going to take over." He demonstrates this point using Perplexity Shopping, showing how consumers can research, compare, and purchase products without ever visiting a brand's website.The discussion reveals how AI-powered shopping platforms threaten traditional cross-selling strategies. "You are, you know, for that transaction, yes. To build some brand awareness, maybe. Cross-sell, absolutely not," Pano states. This fundamental shift forces businesses to reconsider their entire customer acquisition and retention strategies.Pano's advice for content teams reflects the urgency of this transition: "Start using the engines and asking all the questions that any consumer and they give you all the questions that consumers can ask and go figure out whether you're in the top three or top one or top two." He stresses the importance of understanding where brands rank in AI responses and working backward to improve visibility in source content.The conversation concludes with predictions about Google's future. "The judges in the trial that just came out last week or two weeks ago, it's pretty obvious that the judge knows that what we all know is Google search in the traditional SEO, SEM world, it's over," Pano observes. He compares Google's potential fate to previous tech giants, noting how quickly market leaders can become irrelevant when disrupted by superior technology.Key Takeaways• Consumer adoption drives innovation: Consumers spend two trillion dollars annually and adopt technology faster than corporations, making them the ultimate predictor of future trends• Process documentation is crucial: Successful AI implementation requires clearly defined rules and boundaries before automation can begin• Reddit has become the new SEO: Chat engines prioritize Reddit content over traditional website reviews, fundamentally changing how brands build credibility• Website traffic will decline dramatically: Hard goods businesses face inevitable traffic drops as consumers turn to AI-powered shopping experiences• Transparency is the new currency: AI engines expose product quality issues that brands previously could hide through marketing• Google's dominance faces serious threats: Traditional search is being replaced by conversational AI interfaces that provide instant, comprehensive answersFinal ThoughtsThe retail revolution isn't coming—it's already here, reshaping how consumers discover, evaluate, and purchase products. Pano Anthos delivers a clear message: businesses must abandon traditional web-centric strategies and embrace AI-powered commerce platforms or risk obsolescence. The winners won't be those with the prettiest websites but those who understand how to position themselves effectively within AI-driven discovery systems. As we navigate this transformation, one question remains: will your business become an agent of change or merely another victim of technological disruption?Connect with XRC Ventures:https://xrcventures.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/xrcventureshttps://www.instagram.com/xrcventuresFollow Talk Commerce on your favorite platform:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkcommerceBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/talkcommerce.bsky.socialApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talk-commerce/id1561204656Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7Alx6N7ERrPEXIBb41FZ1nTwitter: @talkingcommerceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talk-commerceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingcommerceWebsite: https://talk-commerce.com/

New taxes take effect in Washington on Oct. 1 under the 2025-27 budget, including sales tax expansion, higher B&O rates, and transportation fee increases. Lawmakers and businesses warn of confusion, compliance burdens, and costs being passed to consumers, while proponents say the changes are needed to close a budget shortfall. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/oct-1-brings-new-taxes-for-washington-businesses-and-consumers/ #Washington #Taxes #SmallBusiness #Comcast #SalesTax #BONewTax #Transportation #TheCenterSquare

The final guess at UK second quarter GDP led to some modest increases in growth—cementing the UK's position as the fastest growing G7 economy year-to-date. Better investment figures led the upgrade. Consumers' savings rate increased, suggesting consumers have resources to fund future spending (despite retailers' attempts at profit-led inflation).

Dr. Stephanie Guichard explains today's Consumer Confidence data, which came in lower than expected. There's no “clear trend,” she notes, but labor market woes may be adding more negative feelings. Consumers are also most worried about prices and inflation, with the second biggest factor being tariffs. She also talks about how confidence remains low even among top earners.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day. Subscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/ About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. California is on the verge of legalizing E15 fuel for the first time after the legislature unanimously passed Assembly Bill 30. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, talks with Geoff Cooper, President & CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), about how persistence, coalition-building, and strategy led to this milestone — and what it means for consumers, retailers, policymakers, and grain professionals. From lower costs and cleaner air to ripple effects across ethanol markets and grain demand, this conversation explores how one bill could reshape the renewable fuels landscape for decades.Geoff Cooper is President and CEO of the RFA, the leading trade association for America's ethanol industry. Since joining RFA in 2008, he has driven market growth, shaped policy, and expanded global demand for ethanol and co-products. A former U.S. Army captain specializing in fuel logistics, Geoff has served on key advisory boards and testified before state and federal bodies. He is widely recognized as a leader in the bioeconomy and a strong advocate for sustainable fuels.Key TakeawaysAB30 passed unanimously — a historic first for ethanol legislation — and includes an urgency clause to make E15 legal immediately once signed. Consumers could save ~$2.7 billion annually (about $200 per household) with E15, typically priced 10–30¢ per gallon lower than E10. Environmental benefits include reduced smog-forming emissions, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and greenhouse gases. Ethanol production is zero-waste: starch becomes fuel while protein, fat, and fiber become livestock feed. A broad coalition — retailers, farm groups, transport associations, chambers of commerce, veterans, and labor — made AB30 possible. California's decision accelerates federal momentum for year-round E15 and influences fuel policy worldwide. Market impact: 600–700 million gallons of additional ethanol demand could require 200–250 million more bushels of corn, boosting grain handling and transport.Pull Quotes“This is the first ethanol-friendly bill to move through the California legislature with unanimous support.” “E15 delivers typical pump savings of 10–30 cents per gallon — and we've seen even larger discounts.” “The ethanol process today is zero-waste — starch becomes fuel, and protein, fat, and fiber become livestock feed.” “California's move on E15 sends a signal nationwide and around the world.” Important Links & Related EpisodesRenewable Fuels Association (RFA) — https://ethanolrfa.org/Fueling the Future: The Role of Renewable Fuels in the Grain Industry with RFA's Robert White E15, Ethanol and the Future of Agriculture with Emily Skor of Growth EnergyDriving Change: TheGrain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS' website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS' Whole Grain podcast.

Video version of this episode is hereTakeawaysThe team is excited about upcoming grocery reports and innovations.AI tools are transforming the way retail professionals work.Holiday shopping is expected to grow by 3-3.5%.Consumer sentiment is cautious due to rising prices.Consumers are pulling holiday purchases forward to October.Supply chain disruptions may affect product availability.Weekly consumer surveys help gauge holiday spending expectations.Retailers are preparing for potential shortages this holiday season.CoreSight's reports are accessible to both members and non-members.Chapters00:00Introduction to Isla Meldon and Her Journey03:31The Role of AI in Graphic Design06:37Upcoming Reports and Innovations in Retail10:28Introduction to Holiday Retail Trends12:10Consumer Sentiment and Spending Expectations14:44Supply Chain Dynamics and Product Availability17:48CoreSight Research Insights and Reporting

In today's diverse and interconnected world, effective marketing requires more than clever slogans or broad demographic data—it requires understanding people. That was the heart of my conversation with Hernan Tagliani, who emphasized why representation and cultural relevance are critical to building authentic connections with consumers.Too often, brands rely on general market research and assume it will apply to multicultural audiences. The result? Campaigns that fall flat because they treat groups like the Hispanic community, for example, as one-dimensional. The reality is far more complex—language, culture, regional differences, and generational dynamics all influence consumer behavior.Why Cultural Nuance MattersA common misstep brands make is translating a campaign into another language and calling it multicultural marketing. But language alone isn't enough. Culture outweighs translation. A campaign that resonates in Mexico may not land the same way in Miami or Los Angeles, even though the audience may all identify as Hispanic. Similarly, Caribbean, American-born Black, and African immigrants each bring unique lived experiences that shape their consumer behavior. To ignore these nuances is to miss the heart of what truly connects with people.Research Beyond the BasicsReal engagement begins with research that goes deeper than age, income, or education levels. Hernan shared how understanding that many Hispanic consumers live in multigenerational households can shape campaigns that speak to both younger and older family members. Or how knowing that Hispanic consumers are highly active online informs where and how brands should show up. When companies commit to uncovering the “DNA” of their consumers—what drives them, what matters most, what builds loyalty—they uncover opportunities that generic data will never reveal.Representation at the TableRepresentation isn't just about the people in ads—it's about who makes the decisions. Diverse voices in marketing teams and leadership are essential to asking the right questions and challenging assumptions. Without them, brands risk missing cultural signals, alienating customers, and leaving revenue on the table. The data is clear: diverse communities, especially Latino and Black consumers, are not niche markets. They represent trillions in spending power and are driving much of the population and workforce growth in the U.S.Multicultural Marketing Drives GrowthBetween 2010 and 2030, Latinos alone are expected to account for more than half of new homeowners in the U.S. By 2045, White consumers will no longer be the majority. These demographic shifts aren't projections to consider “someday.” They are happening now. Brands that fail to reallocate budgets and strategies to align with multicultural growth are actively missing opportunities to build long-term loyalty and market share.And let's not forget: we live in a global economy. Consumers don't only compare brands locally—they compare experiences worldwide. A marketing campaign must resonate not just across borders of language, but across borders of culture and identity.Moving Beyond QuotasThis isn't about checking a diversity box. It's about building campaigns and teams that reflect the audiences we want to reach. It's about making cultural relevance and representation part of the core business strategy, not an afterthought. Hernan put it plainly: if you're not prioritizing multicultural marketing, you're already behind your competition.Final ThoughtsMarketing is, at its core, about connection. That connection comes from understanding people not as statistics, but as individuals with unique stories, cultures, and preferences. By investing in research, elevating diverse voices, and tailoring strategies to cultural realities, brands can create campaigns that don't just sell products but foster trust, loyalty, and meaningful relationships.Representation isn't just powerful—it's profitable. And in today's marketplace, it's no longer optional. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit deiafter5.substack.com/subscribe

Guest host Charis Hogg talks to Bruce Winder, Retail Analyst and President of Bruce Winder Retail Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Festival-related sales on e-commerce platforms are off to strong start, recording Rs 60,700 crore in the first week. Moreover, the government is working to ensure that GST rate reductions are passed on to consumers. Post-Diwali IPOs are expected to raise about $4.5 billion, with prominent issues include Groww and Lenskart.

Hello, and welcome back to Cash Flow Conversations, a new miniseries sponsored by Nova Credit. Episode 3 is my conversation with Matt Zalubowski, Chief Commercial Officer and Chief Marketing Officer at Atlanticus, a subprime lender focused on offering credit cards and personal loans.  The challenge in this market is finding more ways to fairly and responsibly say YES. Cash flow data is proving to be a natural fit, driving about a 15% lift on top of traditional bureau data while widening the credit box without adding risk (and giving consumers better terms and pricing that go beyond a simple yes/no decision). We dig into how Atlanticus uses cash flow data to bridge the gap between prime cards and payday-style products, why affiliates like MoneyLion help reduce friction in permissioning, and how cash flow data enables smarter line sizing and pricing. Plus, some early results! I learned a lot in this conversation, and I trust you will, too. Subscribe now to catch the rest of Cash Flow Conversations as it comes. This miniseries is brought to you by Nova Credit. Nova Credit is a credit infrastructure and analytics company that enables businesses to grow responsibly by harnessing alternative credit data.  The company is a CRA that leverages its unique data infrastructure, compliance framework, and credit expertise to help lenders fill in the gaps that exist in traditional credit analytics.  Deploy cash flow underwriting confidently with Nova Credit's proven platform. Check them out at www.novacredit.com. Sign up for Alex's Fintech Takes newsletter for the latest insightful analysis on fintech trends, along with a heaping pile of pop culture references and copious footnotes. Every Monday and Thursday: https://workweek.com/brand/fintech-takes/ And for more exclusive insider content, don't forget to check out my YouTube page. Follow Alex:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJgfH47QEwbQmkQlz1V9rQA/videos LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexhjohnson Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/AlexH_Johnson Follow Matt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattzalubowski/ Learn more about Nova Credit here.

New tariffs are set to target furnishings and pharmaceuticals. Greg and guest host Morgan Lyon-Cotti talk to trade attorney Michelle Schulz, Trade Attorney, Founder and Managing Partner, Schulz Trade Law PLLC Dallas, who gave them a perspective on what exactly this may mean for American consumers as well as manufacturers.

The September 29 edition of the AgNet News Hour kicked off the week with a deep dive into the future of California agriculture. Hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill sat down with John Duarte, president of Duarte Nurseries, for a conversation that blended innovation, new crops, and urgent political warnings. Duarte, whose family nursery dates back to 1989, explained how forward thinking has kept the business at the cutting edge. From pioneering virus-free grapevines to advancing clonal rootstocks for almonds and pistachios, Duarte has made science the foundation of orchard success. He revealed that Duarte's new Yorazani almond variety has broken records, producing 2,700 pounds per acre in just 36 months. “It resets the economics of almond growing,” Duarte told listeners, stressing that productivity is the key to surviving low nut prices. The nursery's work doesn't stop with almonds. Duarte said their pistachio vigor clonal rootstock has shown a 30% improvement over seedlings in long-term trials. Looking ahead, he is most excited about a new frontier: avocados in the Central Valley. With breakthroughs in micropropagation, Duarte expects to deliver widely available avocado trees to California growers by 2027. “Consumers are telling us they want avocados — and the Valley can deliver,” he said. But Duarte's optimism was tempered by political concern. He called Proposition 50 a direct threat to Central Valley farmers, warning that the measure would gerrymander rural communities out of fair representation. “If Prop 50 passes, the Valley loses its voice in Washington,” he said, urging farmers and listeners to mobilize against it. Duarte also tied California's farm challenges to the larger issue of food security. With a $32 billion agricultural trade deficit, he argued that relying on imports makes the U.S. vulnerable. “Working families are the ones paying the price,” Duarte said, noting that higher costs and lower quality imports hurt everyday Californians most. From almonds and pistachios to the promise of Central Valley avocados, Duarte continues to bring solutions at a time when agriculture needs them most. Farmers left this episode with both new ideas and a clear warning: the future of California farming depends on innovation and political engagement. Catch the full interview with John Duarte on the AgNet News Hour by clicking below, or on your favorite podcast app.

This week's guest on The Publisher Podcast is Mel McVeigh, Head of Digital at the Professional Publisher's Association (PPA). Mel has been at the PPA for the last 18 months, and her role is to support digital thinking within the organisation and its members. Mel recently worked with Enders Analysis on a report - Consumers, creators, and brands: Rewriting the media playbook. The report aims to help publishers with their plans around technology investments, as well as provoke and challenge them to think about how they're going to innovate in the long-term. Peter and Mel talk about the challenges technology brings and whether the website is really dying, but also the reasons to be cheerful, like the sustained trust enjoyed by magazine brands. She talks about platforms, processes, and product thinking, as well as the importance of editorial intuition. Read the write-up of this interview over on voices.media or by signing up to our weekly newsletter.

  Meta Connect 2025: 1:10   Apple: 15:37 - New OS's launch - 17 Air durability and battery testing - 17 Pro durability testing   Google: 35:25 - Ask Photos is now available on non Pixel 10 Android devices   Microsoft: 38:41 - Consumers can now enroll PCs in extended security updates for Windows 10   General Tech: 45:09 - Xiaomi 17 series phones - New Mediatek processors - New Qualcomm processors - Amazon proven in court to suck   Gaming: 1:03:23 - Microsoft is raising Xbox prices again - ROG Xbox Ally preorder now available - Microsoft Flight Simulator is coming to Playstation 5 - The next Forza is set to be in Japan - Steam Autumn Sale   Doom: 1:21:52 - Doom on a vape - Doom on a… database?   One More Thing: 1:27:48 - Ayaneo Pocket Air Mini     https://www.patreon.com/callingallplatforms    Merch!   Contact: podcast@callingallplatforms.com Social: Facebook Twitter YouTube   Apple Podcasts Spotify Android  

Late at night, a young professional, worn out after several days of overtime, felt a sudden pang in her stomach. Scanning her medicine cabinet, she realized her pills had expired. Desperate, she picked up her phone. Within minutes, she found what she needed on a delivery app, discovered a 24-hour smart pharmacy, and even added a warm bowl of millet porridge and some steamed buns to her order. Less than 30 minutes later, the medicine and food arrived, taking care of both her hunger and pain. "More thoughtful than my boyfriend," she thought.深夜，一位年轻职场人连续加班多日后，突然感到胃部一阵绞痛。她查看药柜，发现常备药已经过期。情急之下，她拿起手机，几分钟内就在外卖平台上找到了需要的药品，还发现了一家24小时智能药房，顺便加购了一碗热小米粥和几个包子。不到30分钟，药品和食物就送达了，既缓解了饥饿，也减轻了疼痛。她心想：“比男朋友还贴心。”In another place, a mother preparing for a family feast faced a minor crisis: key condiments like soy sauce and black vinegar were missing from her online order. The nearest supermarket was far, crowded and inconvenient. With a mix of frustration and hope, she tried a flash-sale app. Within minutes, she found the missing items as well as attractive discounts, and added yogurt and nuts for her children to the order. Fifteen minutes later, a man knocked on the door, and delivered the items at prices lower than the supermarket and with far less hassle. The family feast went on without a hitch.在另一个场景中，一位母亲正在筹备家庭聚餐，却遇到了一个小麻烦：网购的订单里漏了酱油、陈醋等关键调味品。最近的超市距离远、人又多，十分不便。她带着一丝无奈和期待，尝试打开一款闪购APP。几分钟内，她不仅找到了短缺的调味品，还发现了优惠活动，于是又给孩子加购了酸奶和坚果。15分钟后，敲门声响起，商品送达，价格比超市还低，过程也省心不少。家庭聚餐得以顺利进行。In a county home, a young man heard that an old friend was passing through and would change trains at the local railway station in an hour. He wanted to gift a taste of home to his friend, but most stores were closed for the weekend. Then he remembered the local supermarket had partnered with an instant retail platform. Immediately, he ordered a gift set of local pastries and a new but popular tea drink, adding a note: "Please deliver quickly—urgent gift." About 25 minutes later, the package arrived. He met his friend at the station and gifted him a "piece of home"—a small but valuable gesture.在一个县城里，一位年轻人得知老友途经此地，一小时后将在当地火车站换乘。他想给老友带一份家乡味道当礼物，但周末多数店铺都关门了。这时他想起，当地超市与一家即时零售平台有合作。他立刻下单了一套本地糕点礼盒和一款新款热门茶饮，并备注“急需送礼，请尽快送达”。约25分钟后，包裹送到了。他到车站见到老友，送上这份“家乡味”——虽不起眼，却情谊深厚。These stories illustrate a larger shift reshaping China's consumer market: instant consumption. Defined by online ordering and immediate offline delivery, it is changing shopping habits and driving growth. During the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25), instant consumption leapt forward, with improved infrastructure, richer consumption scenarios, and rapidly growing market scale, becoming a key driver of consumption upgrading and domestic growth.这些故事背后，折射出中国消费市场正在发生的深刻变革——即时消费。这种以“线上下单、线下即时送达”为核心的消费模式，正改变着人们的购物习惯，拉动经济增长。“十四五”时期（2021-2025年），即时消费凭借基础设施完善、消费场景丰富、市场规模快速扩大等优势实现跨越式发展，成为推动消费升级和内需增长的重要引擎。According to the China Chain Store and Franchise Association, the country's instant retail market is expected to exceed 1.4 trillion yuan ($196.3 billion) in 2025, with a projected five-year compound annual growth rate of 25 percent—a major driver of consumer vitality.中国连锁经营协会数据显示，2025年中国即时零售市场规模预计将突破1.4万亿元（约合1963亿美元），五年复合年均增长率预计达25%，成为激发消费活力的重要力量。The magic of instant consumption lies in turning fleeting, fragmented or urgent needs into actual purchases. "Want it now" becomes "get it now"; "might need it" turns into a confirmed order. By meeting immediate needs, extending shopping hours, and reaching more places, instant consumption generates new demand and reshapes both business and consumer behavior.即时消费的魅力，在于能将转瞬即逝、零散细碎或紧急迫切的需求转化为实际消费。“现在想要”变成“现在得到”，“可能需要”变成“确定下单”。通过满足即时需求、延长购物时间、拓展服务范围，即时消费不断创造新需求，重塑商家经营模式与消费者行为习惯。Time has become an even more precious commodity in busy cities. Whether it's water, a meal, medication or office supplies, instant delivery has brought down waiting time to minutes, thus reducing mental strain and freeing up hours. Beyond emergencies, it changes expectations: instant service is now standard, not a perk. Small, frequent demands—an umbrella during sudden rain, late-night snacks while working overtime—are now easily met, turning previously latent needs into real consumption.在快节奏的城市生活中，时间愈发珍贵。无论是饮用水、餐食、药品还是办公用品，即时配送将等待时间缩短至分钟级，不仅减轻了人们的心理压力，还节省了大量时间。除了应对紧急情况，即时消费还改变了人们的预期：即时服务已从“额外福利”变为“标配”。突发降雨时需要的雨伞、加班时想吃的夜宵等高频小额需求，如今都能轻松满足，原本潜在的需求转化为了实际消费。Instant consumption is also breaking the traditional boundaries of retail hours. Convenience stores and e-commerce offer 24-hour options, but instant retail provides true round-the-clock response. Workers on the nightshift, students and spontaneous shoppers can get what they want at hours when brick-and-mortar stores are closed, creating a new consumption pattern: midnight snacks, emergency hygiene products, even replacement phone chargers.即时消费还打破了传统零售的时间限制。便利店和电商虽提供24小时服务，但即时零售实现了真正的“全天候响应”。夜班工作者、学生以及临时有购物需求的人，即便在实体店铺关门时段，也能买到所需商品，催生了夜宵、应急卫生用品、手机充电器替换等新消费场景。Consumers no longer need to travel to a store; goods come to them. Urban centers, residential areas, offices and even underserved outskirts enjoy the same access. Rain or shine, umbrellas or groceries are all delivered to your doorstep. Elderly residents in remote areas can now easily get daily necessities. By removing the barriers of distance, instant consumption has made shopping more inclusive and unlocked untapped demand.消费者无需再前往店铺，商品会主动“送上门”。无论是城市中心、居民区、办公区，还是服务相对薄弱的郊区，都能享受同等便捷的服务。无论晴雨，雨伞或生鲜食材都能送达家门口；偏远地区的老年人也能轻松买到日常生活用品。通过打破距离壁垒，即时消费让购物更具包容性，释放了此前未被挖掘的需求。Digital technology is powering all this. Big data, AI and recommendation algorithms allow platforms to anticipate needs, adjust inventory and optimize delivery in real time. While hot drinks and hotpot appear on your app when temperatures suddenly drop, the right promotions pop up during holidays. Even location or weather data inform personalized suggestions. This precision doesn't just improve efficiency, it also awakens latent needs, turning spontaneous ideas into confirmed purchases and continuously creating new demand.这一切的背后，是数字技术的支撑。大数据、人工智能（AI）和推荐算法让平台能够预判需求、实时调整库存并优化配送路线：气温骤降时，APP首页会推送热饮、火锅；节假日期间，精准的促销活动主动弹窗；地理位置、天气情况等数据还能提供个性化推荐。这种精准化服务不仅提升了效率，更唤醒了潜在需求，让“突然想买”变成“确定下单”，持续创造新的消费增长点。During the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-30), instant consumption is poised to reach wider areas and accelerate innovation. As the internet of things and autonomous-driving technologies mature, drone and driverless-vehicle deliveries are likely to scale up, reducing costs and shrinking response time. Service offerings will expand beyond physical goods to include instant medical consultations, home nursing and emergency repairs.“十五五”时期（2026-2030年），即时消费将向更广泛领域延伸，创新步伐也将加快。随着物联网、自动驾驶技术的成熟，无人机、无人车配送有望规模化应用，进一步降低成本、缩短响应时间；服务范围将从实物商品拓展至即时医疗咨询、居家护理、紧急维修等领域。Anchored by green, low-carbon priorities, the sector will increasingly adopt eco-friendly packaging, route optimization and resource conservation, laying the groundwork for high-quality, sustainable growth. As digital rural infrastructure advances, instant service networks will extend into the countryside, better meeting rural residents' immediate but diverse needs, and adding to the momentum of rural vitalization.以绿色低碳为导向，即时消费行业将更多采用环保包装、优化配送路线、节约资源，为高质量可持续发展奠定基础。随着农村数字基础设施的完善，即时服务网络将向农村延伸，更好满足农村居民多样化的即时需求，为乡村振兴注入新动力。The social and economic benefits are clear. Instant consumption improves distribution efficiency, boosts fragmented and situational demand, accelerates retail digitalization, and supports local supply chains, logistics and delivery employment. Beyond economics, it enriches daily life, boosts urban resilience, and plays a key role in emergency support and care for special people. Instant consumption has become a vital part of modern urban life, illustrating how China's economic development is meeting the Chinese people's aspirations for a better life.即时消费的经济社会效益显而易见：它提升了流通效率，激活了碎片化、场景化需求，加速了零售业数字化转型，还带动了本地供应链、物流及配送行业就业。除经济层面外，它丰富了日常生活，增强了城市韧性，在应急保障、特殊群体关怀等方面也发挥着重要作用。如今，即时消费已成为现代城市生活的重要组成部分，印证着中国经济发展正不断满足人民对美好生活的向往。instant consumptionn.即时消费 /ˈɪnstənt kənˈsʌmpʃn/instant retail marketn.即时零售市场/ˈɪnstənt ˈriːteɪl ˈmɑːkɪt/

The Blaze's Joe Hanneman, Alliance for Consumers' OH Skinner, Conservative Caucus' Jim Pfaff, Do No Harm's Ian Kingsbury, Senator Ron Johnson, Wisconsin GOP Chair Brian Schimming

Is gut health still a top priority for consumers? We know that awareness continues to rise, but there's evidence that fewer people are actually taking action when it comes to their diets. In this episode of the Food Matters Live podcast, recorded at our event in Manchester in May 2025, we explore how the gut health conversation needs to evolve beyond traditional disease management messaging. We hear how stressed, burnt-out consumers are shifting focus from long-term health goals to immediate quality-of-life concerns like energy, mood, and sleep - creating an opportunity to reframe gut health benefits around these daily wellness priorities.  We also explore the critical but underexplored connection between gut health and menopause, explaining how the "estrobolome" - specific gut bacteria that metabolise estrogen - could be key to managing menopausal symptoms. From the challenge of making fibre "aspirational" like protein has become, to understanding why post-menopausal women's microbiomes become more similar to men's, our experts reveal why the gut health industry must pivot its messaging.  Can brands successfully connect the dots between digestive wellness and the energy, mood, and stress management that consumers desperately need?

The fight to protect children is gaining ground—Nationwide Children's Hospital just ended "gender-affirming" care for minors. Will Hild, Executive Director of Consumers' Research, joins CCV Executive Policy Director David Mahan and Executive Communications Director Mike Andrews on this week's episode of The Narrative to break down how this victory came about, what it reveals about the broader battle over children's health, and why parents must keep speaking up and fighting for the protection of Ohio's children. Before they share in the victory with Will, Aaron joins Mike to run through this week's most pressing news:

ResourcesClick here to view and use the Peristomal Skin Assessment Guide for Clinicians and Consumers. You can also bookmark and/or share the following web address with your colleagues and patients: psag.wocn.org.Journal of Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing (JWOCN®) articles referenced in this episode:A Randomized Controlled Trial Determining Variances in Ostomy Skin Conditions and the Economic Impact (ADVOCATE Trial)Lessons Learned About Peristomal Skin Complications Secondary Analysis of the ADVOCATE TrialThe Incidence of Stoma and Peristomal Complications During the First 3 Months After Ostomy CreationPeristomal Skin Itch: An Integrative Review Other articles referenced in this episode:Peristomal DermatologyAssessment of itch: more to be learned and improvements to be madePsychometric validation of the Ostomy Skin Tool 2.0 About the SpeakerJoyce Pittman, PhD, RN, ANP-BC, FNP-BC, CWOCN, WOCNF, FAANDr. Pittman is an Associate Professor at University of South Alabama and nurse scientist at USA Health focusing on pressure injuries, health/racial disparities, and ostomy complications. She is a certified Wound, Ostomy, Continence nurse, Adult/Family Nurse Practitioner, WOCN Fellow, past National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (NPIAP) Vice President, and the 2025-2026 Treasurer of the WOCN® Society.Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant.

This week, Sarah and Nate are joined by Alyssa Wallace, retention & lifecycle marketing pro, for a conversation that flips the usual DTC playbook on its head. Here's the hard truth: blasting 100+ AI ads and endless “buy now” emails isn't retention. It's noise. Consumers aren't dumb—they're tired, frustrated, and tuning out. Together, we dig into: Why retention is really about habit-building, not just marketing BDB - Episode 103 The difference between lifecycle vs. loyalty vs. acquisition (and why most brands get it wrong) Why your email list isn't full of “customers”—it's mostly prospects How to align ads, offers, timing, and messaging to create actual lifetime value Why silly things (like mocktail recipes or “sandwich emails”) often outperform discount blasts And why the future belongs to brands that connect emotionally, not just transactionally If you've ever wondered why your retention campaigns feel flat, how to build real loyalty, or what it actually takes to keep customers around, this episode will give you the straight answers. Season 3 is here, and we're starting loud.

Spending at fashion businesses in Ireland rose by 3% in August compared to the previous month, according to newly released cardholder data from Visa. Women's accessories and sports apparel were found to be two of the fastest-growing fashion sub-sectors over the past 12 months, according to the cardholder data. Online is the preferred way to shop for fashion While spending is on the rise at Irish fashion businesses, the way in which consumers are shopping for fashion is also changing, according to Visa, with digital channels playing a central role in growth. A consumer survey commissioned by Visa, Title Sponsor of Ireland Fashion Week (6-10 October), found that two-thirds (62%) of respondents choose to shop online for convenience. 37% prefer it over in-store shopping as it allows them to avoid crowds and queues. Consumers are using AI and social media to find fashion The Visa survey also indicates that digitalisation is changing how shoppers discover and interact with fashion brands. Over half (56%) discover new fashion labels through search engines, online browsing, and social media platforms, highlighting the importance of having a strong online presence. Emerging technologies were also found to be influencing online shopping, with 12% of surveyed shoppers already using AI tools to search for or compare fashion products, and a further 32% interested in trying AI to enhance their shopping experience. More than half (55%) of respondents surveyed by Visa prefer to shop directly on a brand's website. Supporting local, buying Irish When it comes to supporting small and medium-sized Irish fashion brands, almost a quarter (24%) of those surveyed said they prefer to buy from them over large Irish or international fashion chains. Almost two-thirds of Visa survey respondents (61%) have made a purchase from a small Irish-owned fashion brand in the past year. On average, those surveyed were found to spend €87.80 per month on fashion, with the vast majority (82%) spending up to €150 per month. The Visa-commissioned survey found that online shopping habits are also linked to consumers' values. Among surveyed respondents, 44% said they deliberately choose to shop online from small Irish fashion brands, rather than international ones, to support local jobs and communities. Conor Langford, Ireland Country Manager, Visa, said: "Digital commerce is helping open doors for small, local fashion brands to reach new customers like never before. Our data shows that spending within Ireland's fashion sector is growing, and more shoppers are seeking out, discovering, and buying from Irish fashion brands online. This is driving real growth for Ireland's economy. Visa is proud to support this momentum as Title Sponsor of Ireland Fashion Week, a platform that is celebrating local fashion talent and helping them turn their creativity into sales and new opportunities." Visa is a global leader in digital payments and Title Sponsor of Ireland Fashion Week, which kicks off next month (Oct 6th - 10th). About Ireland Fashion Week Powered by Visa As the title sponsor of Ireland Fashion Week, Visa aims to bring global recognition, industry expertise, and elevated opportunity to one of Ireland's highly anticipated cultural events. As a global leader in digital payments, Visa empowers small businesses to get online, accept and send digital payments and attract a nationwide or even international customer base - all important components to help designers grow and prosper. Visa's commitment to innovation and its alignment with Ireland Fashion Week signal a shared commitment to progress and the celebration of Irish creative talents. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podc...

BUSINESS: Businesses less confident, consumers still pessimistic | Sept. 27, 2025Subscribe to The Manila Times Channel - https://tmt.ph/YTSubscribe Visit our website at https://www.manilatimes.net Follow us: Facebook - https://tmt.ph/facebook Instagram - https://tmt.ph/instagram Twitter - https://tmt.ph/twitter DailyMotion - https://tmt.ph/dailymotion Subscribe to our Digital Edition - https://tmt.ph/digital Check out our Podcasts: Spotify - https://tmt.ph/spotify Apple Podcasts - https://tmt.ph/applepodcasts Amazon Music - https://tmt.ph/amazonmusic Deezer: https://tmt.ph/deezer Stitcher: https://tmt.ph/stitcherTune In: https://tmt.ph/tunein #TheManilaTimes#KeepUpWithTheTimes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Group Chat News is back with the biggest stories of the week including, Jimmel Kimmel makes his return to ABC, Dee shares a Gary Vee story, what if everyone drove like a Waymo, Consumers in the top 10% of the income distribution accounted for 49.2% of total US spending in Q2, Nvidia plans to invest up to $100 billion in OpenAI as part of data center buildout and everyone's favorite WINNERS LOSERS CONTENT

Ben Criddle talks BYU sports every weekday from 2 to 6 pm.Today's Co-Hosts: Ben Criddle (@criddlebenjamin)Subscribe to the Cougar Sports with Ben Criddle podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-sports-with-ben-criddle/id99676

Developing an almond tree that would rely less on honeybees and other benefits for farmers. A conversation with the head of Burchell Nursery–a leading independent tree nursery that has an in-house breeding program. 

Burt Flickinger believes Costco (COST) has a much wider moat compared to peers like Walmart (WMT) and Target (TGT). He adds that the company's cost-cutting measures will help levy tariff costs he expects Costco to pass onto vendors. Alex Coffey takes investors through the options front ahead of the company's earnings after hours Thursday.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Options involve risks and are not suitable for all investors. Before trading, read the Options Disclosure Document. http://bit.ly/2v9tH6DSubscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Higher education is at a turning point. The current model of higher education was built for the industrial era and needs to be transformed, according to Arthur Levine, author of the previously published The Great Upheaval: Higher Education's Past, Present, and Uncertain Future. He has a new book coming out in spring 2026.  He is not promoting either book at this time.  Nationally known educational thought leader and Brandeis University President Arthur Levine has been at the forefront of the changing role of higher education.  He argues that in the next 20 years, college will be reinvented.  Consumers of higher education will determine what higher education will be, and that every institution will have to change. All colleges—especially liberal arts colleges —need to be more closely tied to the needs of the workplace and must change traditional structures, curricula, programs, degree offerings, teaching methods, career education, and student support systems. The proposed changes address concerns of both parents and the needs of employers—finding workers whose skills match what they need.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-like-it-s-live--4113802/support.

Sam's Club CEO Chris Nicholas believes that consumers have remained consistent and rational despite growing uncertainty surrounding tariff effects on consumer goods. He spoke with Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec at the Bloomberg Philanthropies Global Forum to discuss consumer demand and the post tariff supply chain roadmap.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the second episode of Redefining Energy Tech, Lyle Trytten (aka the Nickel Nerd) joins host Michael Barnard to explore the controversial world of seabed mining. The discussion focuses on The Metals Company (TMC), Impossible Metals, and their efforts in the Clarion Clipperton Zone.A significant milestone was recently announced: for the first time, a pre-feasibility study claimed 50 million tons of declared reserves out of 360 million tons of identified seabed resources. While notable, the credibility of this claim is in question. Unlike Canadian and Australian standards that require independent certification, TMC's study relied on internal sources—raising concerns about transparency and trustworthiness.Mining has always carried uncertainty, and seabed operations are even riskier. Most mining projects miss their cost, scope, and timeline estimates—and deep-sea ventures amplify these risks. TMC's proposed system involves a massive vacuum operating at 4,000 meters below sea level, connected to a 7-kilometer riser pipe hauling nodules to the surface. The technology is approaching mid-to-high readiness. In contrast, Impossible Metals is developing small autonomous vehicles to pick nodules selectively. While innovative, their tech is at a lower readiness level (around 3–4) and still grappling with deep-sea navigation—more science fiction than reality for now.Even if extraction is successful, processing presents a massive challenge. TMC has an agreement with a Japanese smelter for 1 million tons per year, but global demand calls for 9 million tons of new processing capacity. Indonesia, through China-led ventures, dominates the nickel supply chain with tightly integrated mining and smelting. TMC's proposal to build two U.S. refineries underscores how far behind the West is in infrastructure and planning. History isn't encouraging either—many Western nickel laterite projects have failed, while Chinese efforts succeed due to end-to-end alignment of mining, processing, and market demand.The conversation also revealed deeper systemic issues. The West has allowed mining and metallurgy education to deteriorate. The U.S. now produces a fraction of the engineers it once did, while China graduates the majority of the world's mining specialists. Reversing that trend could take a generation. Meanwhile, seabed mining risks following the path of hydrogen for transport: overhyped, slow to materialize, and economically weak compared to better alternatives. Consumers are already pushing back on seabed minerals due to environmental and ethical concerns. If deep-sea mining ever becomes viable, China is best positioned to lead. A new global treaty could further hinder seabed mining. The High Seas Treaty—now ratified by over 60 nations and set to become international law in January—prioritizes a precautionary approach to ocean activities and aims to protect nearly a third of international waters. It also includes provisions for sharing profits from marine genetic resources. While the U.S. has signed, it has yet to ratify the agreement. Looking ahead, EV adoption continues to accelerate, but resource strategies must be grounded in reality. Pursuing high-cost, speculative mineral sources powered by clean energy doesn't make sense when direct electrification offers more immediate gains. A strong critical minerals strategy in the West will require renewed investment in education, strategic alliances, and a focus on scaling practical, proven technologies—not just what looks impressive on a slide deck.       

This Day in Legal History: Little Rock NineOn September 23, 1957, nine African American students, later known as the Little Rock Nine, were barred from entering Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, despite a federal court order mandating desegregation. This confrontation became a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement and a key test of federal authority to enforce the Supreme Court's 1954 decision in Brown v. Board of Education, which declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional.Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus had deployed the National Guard earlier that month to prevent the students from entering the school, citing concerns about public safety. On September 23, the students attempted to enter the school through a side door. Although they briefly succeeded, a growing and increasingly violent white mob outside forced officials to remove the students for their safety. The local police were unable to contain the mob, highlighting the state's failure to comply with federal law.The national spotlight turned sharply toward Little Rock, prompting President Dwight D. Eisenhower to intervene. The next day, September 24, he federalized the Arkansas National Guard and sent in the 101st Airborne Division to enforce the students' right to attend the school, which they did under armed guard on September 25.This event marked the first time since Reconstruction that federal troops were used in the South to enforce civil rights. It underscored the constitutional principle of federal supremacy and the power of the federal government to uphold civil rights against state resistance.President Trump is set to sign an executive order this week confirming that a proposed deal to restructure TikTok's U.S. operations will satisfy the 2024 law requiring divestment from its Chinese parent, ByteDance. Under the arrangement, ByteDance would retain less than 20% ownership, while American investors—including Trump-aligned figures like Lachlan Murdoch, Larry Ellison, and Michael Dell—would take control of the U.S. business. The restructuring would install a U.S.-based board with national security credentials, aiming to quell longstanding fears that TikTok user data could be accessed by the Chinese government.The executive order also pauses enforcement of the divestment mandate for 120 days, buying time to finalize the deal and secure regulatory sign-offs. While the U.S. government will not take a board seat or a “golden share,” it remains unclear whether the final agreement will involve any direct financial benefit to the federal government. Still, Trump's fingerprints are all over the transaction, from its nationalistic framing to the prominent role of political allies in the investor pool. He's even credited TikTok with helping him connect to young voters—a not-so-subtle nod to the platform's political utility heading into 2026.This deal marks rare progress in U.S.-China economic talks, which have been largely stalled amid broader trade tensions. But it also reflects a larger trend: Trump's willingness to insert the federal government directly into private sector negotiations, whether by greenlighting chip exports to China or taking equity in major tech firms. Critics argue such moves undermine free-market principles and risk long-term damage to U.S. competitiveness. Supporters, however, see it as strategic economic defense.In short, Trump's TikTok solution is part national security play, part corporate reshuffling, and part political theater. Whether it holds up legally—or operationally—may matter less than the narrative: the U.S. regaining control of a culturally dominant platform while sidelining Beijing.Lachlan Murdoch, Michael Dell, Ellison involved in TikTok deal, Trump says | ReutersTrump will sign order declaring TikTok deal meets 2024 law requirements | ReutersK&L Gates is closing its Beijing office, becoming the latest U.S. law firm to retreat from China amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and a sluggish legal market. The Pittsburgh-based firm will consolidate its Beijing operations into its Shanghai office following a leadership review of global strategy and real estate. The move comes under new global managing partner Stacy Ackermann, who took the helm in July.Though K&L Gates will maintain a presence in Shanghai, Hong Kong, and elsewhere in Asia, its exit from Beijing reflects a broader trend. Over the past two years, major U.S. firms like Wilson Sonsini, Cleary Gottlieb, and Winston & Strawn have also shuttered offices in China due to declining deal flow and increased scrutiny of foreign businesses. While some firms continue to operate in Chinese cities, the heyday of aggressive U.S. legal expansion into China—peaking about a decade ago—appears to be over. The firm's departure underscores the mounting challenges of navigating China's legal environment in an era of strategic decoupling.K&L Gates closes Beijing office as US law firms continue China market retreat | ReutersZillow is facing a new proposed class action lawsuit accusing it of deceiving homebuyers by steering them toward its own network of affiliated agents rather than the actual listing agents. Filed in Seattle, the suit claims Zillow's platform misleads users into contacting agents who financially benefit the company—sometimes giving Zillow as much as 40% of their commissions—without disclosing this arrangement to buyers or sellers.The plaintiff, an Oregon resident, argues that these tactics violate both Washington state consumer protection laws and federal real estate laws by inflating commissions and limiting consumer choice. The suit alleges Zillow's practices result in higher home prices and a lack of transparency about who truly represents the buyer's interests. The legal team behind the suit characterizes Zillow's business model as one that exploits consumers' need for housing to boost profits.Zillow has pushed back, calling the lawsuit a misrepresentation of its operations and defending its model as pro-consumer. This case adds to a growing list of legal challenges for the real estate giant, which is already battling other lawsuits over competition and marketing practices, including one from brokerage Compass and another from Homes.com owner CoStar.New lawsuit accuses Zillow of deceiving home buyers | ReutersMy column for Bloomberg this week argues that as states try to modernize sales tax rules for the digital economy, they should stop framing digital offerings as either “goods” or “services” and start taxing them based on function. The Multistate Tax Commission (MTC) is circulating a proposal to define “automated digital products” as those sold with minimal human intervention. While well-intentioned, this definition is fuzzy and risks creating more confusion than clarity. For example, how do we categorize a chatbot that occasionally escalates to a live agent, or AI tools that require ongoing human training? These gray areas aren't new—states have spent years litigating whether software is tangible, intangible, or a service, and this could be a repeat of that same cycle.Instead of defining digital products by how much human effort goes into delivering them, we should define them by what they do. A Netflix subscription is entertainment. QuickBooks is a productivity tool. Therapy on Zoom is health care. Consumers already experience digital services this way, and tax codes should align accordingly. Function-based categories would mirror existing tax practices, like how business deductions or ticket sales are handled, and would be far easier to scale to emerging technologies.It's true that a functional model still faces edge cases—ChatGPT, for instance, could be research, productivity, or entertainment depending on use. But these are better problems to have than trying to parse human involvement in the delivery pipeline. If states want to tax digital products sensibly, they need a system that reflects how people actually use these tools, not how they're coded or deployed. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

In today's marketplace, the role of multicultural consumers isn't just important—it's essential. During this week's DEI After 5 episode, I sat down with Hernan Tagliani, an expert in multicultural marketing, to unpack why brands must stop treating cultural celebrations like Hispanic Heritage Month as optional or seasonal gestures.We started by calling out something many of us notice: some companies go all out for certain commemorative months but remain silent during others. That silence is not neutral. It sends a message about who and what a brand values. Hernan pointed to companies like E.L.F. Beauty that have made multicultural marketing a core part of their DNA—and the results show in their growth. Contrast that with brands that shy away or do nothing, and you see the difference between thriving and being left behind.The data is clear. Forty-four percent of consumers today identify as multicultural, and that number will reach 48% by 2027. Among Millennials and Gen Z—the generations already shaping culture and purchasing power—over half identify as multicultural. That's not a niche market; that's the market. Ignoring it isn't just a missed opportunity, it's a risk to your brand's relevance.Hernan also highlighted the growth within the Hispanic community in particular. Sixty-seven percent of Hispanics in the U.S. are U.S.-born, and more than half live in middle and upper-class households. Eleven percent are considered affluent. This is a demographic with spending power, influence, and an expectation that brands will see them, respect them, and engage authentically.And here's the key word: authenticity. Consumers today are savvy. They know when a brand is simply checking a box versus making a real commitment. The Target backlash we discussed is a good reminder: you can't claim to support diverse communities in your marketing and then pull back when there's pushback. That erodes trust quickly.So what does authenticity look like? It's about weaving diversity into your strategy year-round, not just during heritage months. It's about investing in diverse businesses, elevating diverse voices, and building marketing campaigns that reflect the lived realities of your consumers. It's about being bold—loud and proud, as Hernan says—because your consumers are watching, and they want to know if you're willing to stand by your values.The bottom line is this: engaging multicultural consumers isn't just a marketing tactic; it's a business imperative. The brands that embrace inclusivity and cultural relevance authentically will not only deepen loyalty but also drive long-term growth. The ones that don't will find themselves struggling to keep up in a marketplace that's moving on without them.As Hernan reminds us, the time for action is now. Cultural celebrations are not checkboxes on a calendar—they are opportunities to connect, to engage, and to grow. Brands that take them seriously, with authenticity and courage, will thrive in the diverse future that's already here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit deiafter5.substack.com/subscribe

Friendly Express convenience stores redesigns its mobile app. CVS Health's Omnicare subsidiary has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. And Hispanic consumers are pulling back on c-store visits.

Consumers are craving both comfort and innovation — but how can food and beverage leaders strike the right balance? And what does that mean for brand collaborations? Menu Matters vice president Mike Kostyo joins Food Institute vice president Chris Campbell to discuss the push and pull between nostalgic favorites and bold new product launches in this inaugural episode of Food for Thought Leadership, The Food Institute's podcast featuring insights from the executives shaping the future of food. From menu innovation to shifting consumer values, the discussion explores how brands can stay relevant without losing their heritage and strategic insights designed to help executives navigate today's fast-changing marketplace. More about Mike Kostyo: Mike Kostyo is the Vice President of Menu Matters, a food industry consulting firm based in Chicago. Kostyo was a recurring guest on Fusion TV's “The AV Club Show”; has been featured on NBC Nightly News, WGN Radio, CBS Radio and Gimlet Media's “Why We Eat What We Eat” podcast; is regularly featured in newspapers and magazines; speaks at numerous conferences across the country annually; and was a judge on Food Network's “Eating America.” He has a master's degree in gastronomy from Boston University, plus certificates in the culinary arts, baking arts, wine and artisan cheese production. He is also a freelance writer, serves on the board of the International Foodservice Editorial Council, and is on the advisory committee for the Arkansas Food Innovation Center at the Market Center of the Ozarks. Follow Mike on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrkostyo/ More about Menu Matters: As avid cooks, restaurant-goers—and, yes, perpetual networkers!—our work is driven by a genuine interest in the creators and consumers who shape the world of food. So rather than deliver sterile data or impersonal insights, we strive to understand the deeper social, economic and cultural trends that drive noteworthy shifts in our industry. Whether speaking at conferences, traveling to the hottest culinary markets or investing in long-term relationships with business leaders and tastemakers, the real value of our services is rooted in our insatiable curiosity for all things F+B. We meet clients with the same people-first perspective, seeking to understand the operational concerns and stakeholder structures that influence their unique decision-making processes. Serving as an organic extension of their in-house teams, we partner closely with individuals across various fields of expertise to generate impactful solutions and identify new opportunities. By looking at business challenges from these diverse perspectives—and within a broader socio-cultural context—we can more effectively empower clients to implement innovative strategies that challenge the status quo. Learn more about Menu Matters here: https://www.menumatters.com/

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1152: Today we're talking Hyundai and GM's detailed game plan for their collab, Stellantis' new EV tech that sheds weight and adds power,, and why Americans are going bigger than ever on Halloween—even with higher prices haunting their budgets.Show Notes with links:Hyundai and GM's strategic collaboration will co-develop five vehicles aimed at growing their presence in the Americas while containing costs in a tightening market.The partnership kicks off in 2028 with an electric commercial van for North America and expands to include a compact crossover, sedan, and two pickups for Central and South America.Initial volumes are expected to hit 100,000 units, with a long-term goal of reaching 800,000 annual sales.Each company will “donate” specific models: Hyundai leads the electric van and compact vehicles, while GM heads development of midsize pickups.The duo will lean into shared logistics, propulsion systems, and battery supply chains to drive efficiency.“We are not going to mix everything to try to do a hybrid — that is not going to work. There is a donor and a receiver of a particular product.” said Hyundai CEO Jose Muñoz.Stellantis is rolling out its new Intelligent Battery Integrated System (IBIS)—a breakthrough powertrain innovation that could redefine EV architecture by baking the charger and inverter directly into the battery pack.IBIS cuts vehicle weight by about 40 kg and frees 17 liters of space, boosting aerodynamics and interior design options.The system improves energy efficiency by up to 10%, slashes charging times by 15%, and delivers 15% more power with no added battery size.Developed in partnership with Saft, Sherpa Engineering, and others, IBIS simplifies servicing and enhances battery reuse for second-life applications.A fully functional prototype is now on the road in a Peugeot E-3008 riding on Stellantis' STLA Medium platform.Consumers may be bracing for price hikes, but that's not stopping them from going big on Halloween this year—with spending expected to hit a record $13.1 billion.Top categories: $4.3B on costumes, $4.2B on decorations, and $3.9B on candy.Per-person spend is also at an all-time high: $114.45, up nearly $11 from last year.79% of shoppers expect higher prices due to tariffs, yet 73% still plan to celebrate.Pets aren't left out—$860M will be spent dressing them up as pumpkins, hot dogs, and bumblebees.Top costumes? Kids are going with Spider-Man, princesses, and witches; adults favor witches, vampires, and pirates.0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier1:00 Big Announcement on 10.011:25 Announcements2:02 Hyundai and GM To Launch 5 Co-Developed Vehicles5:25 Stellantis' New EV Tech Means Lighter Batteries and Faster Charging10:20 Halloween Spending To Hit $4Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Ralph interviews New York Times reporter, David Gelles, about his new book, “Dirtbag Billionaire: How Yvon Chouinard Built Patagonia, Made a Fortune, and Gave It All Away.” Then, we welcome back former IRS commissioner, John Koskinen, to update us on how the Trump Administration is dismantling the IRS and stealing your personal information.David Gelles is a reporter on the New York Times climate team and he leads the Times's “Climate Forward” newsletter and events series. He is the author of The Man Who Broke Capitalism: How Jack Welch Gutted the Heartland and Crushed the Soul of Corporate America—and How to Undo His Legacy, and his new book is Dirtbag Billionaire: How Yvon Chouinard Built Patagonia, Made a Fortune, and Gave It All Away.He [Yvon Chouinard] saw Patagonia as a role model for other corporations and believed that by running Patagonia in a different way, he could show that capitalism just didn't have to suck so much.David GellesThere's a paradox that runs through the pages of Dirtbag Billionaire and it's never fully resolved…It's the fact that Chouinard is an environmentalist who wants to reduce the impact of mankind on planet earth, and yet he runs a big, complicated clothing company that is taking a toll on the environment that he's trying to protect. He runs a company that in theory, he says, and in practice is largely doing, the work of funding grassroots activists and environmental conservation. But he's doing it by participating in the very capitalist system that is responsible for so much of the damage to our natural world. And the list goes on. These contradictions are what really has animated Chouinard and his executive team for all these years. They understand their own perfections. But unlike most, they are willing to really examine their own failings, to look it square in the eye, straight in the mirror, and try to figure out how to make things better.David GellesChouinard being a “dirtbag” is something he always identified as and he still does at a certain level. The great insult in his mind is being called a “billionaire.”David GellesJohn Koskinen served as the IRS Commissioner from 2013 to 2017.Lobbyists and corporations are very good at making sure that [tax advantages] always stayed. You never hear too often of tax advantages taken out of the code, what everybody argues about as new ones being put into the code.John KoskinenThese (IRS workers) are very skilled people who in fact have given up the opportunity to make two or three times more money in the private sector because they believe in public service.John KoskinenNews 9/19/25* Just weeks after David Ellison's Skydance Media completed their $8 billion takeover of Paramount Global, Ellison is setting his sights even higher – a proposed $70 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, Variety reports. If this deal proceeds, it would mean that Ellison would control CNN in addition to CBS news, the latter of which he seemingly plans to place under the supervision of “anti-woke” arch-zionist media personality Bari Weiss. While true that cable news does not possess nearly as much clout as it did just a few years ago, this would represent a nearly unprecedented consolidation in that sector. Ellison and his lieutenants would wield a tremendous amount of influence in the media, which would translate to real impacts on the political process. It remains to be seen whether the Trump administration media regulators will take any action to block this deal. Based on their actions so far, it seems unlikely.* In more media news, ABC has indefinitely suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live!, which the comedian has hosted since 2003, after he criticized Trump and his allies for “capitaliz[ing]” on the murder of Charlie Kirk to score political points, CNN reports. Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr threatened action up to and including revoking the broadcast license for ABC, which airs the program, or possibly blocking their merger with Nexstar. While Rolling Stone reports multiple executives at ABC and its parent company Disney, felt that Kimmel “had not actually said anything over the line,” they folded immediately under the threat of retaliation by the administration. This move represents a major contradiction of Carr's previously stated belief that “[the FCC] must dismantle the censorship cartel and restore free speech rights for everyday Americans.” Democrats are incensed at this attack on free speech, Congressman Ro Khanna is seeking to subpoena Carr to testify to the House Oversight Committee. Trump, feeling confident after claiming the scalp of both Kimmel and Colbert – two outspoken critics – is now calling for NBC to remove Jimmy Fallon and Seth Meyers, via Truth Social. Variety reports conservative media conglomerate Sinclair will “replace the Friday timeslot of ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!' with a Charlie Kirk tribute special on its ABC affiliate stations — and is offering the special to all other ABC stations across the country.”* Regarding social media, the Wall Street Journal reports that the U.S. and China are nearing a deal on control of TikTok, under a framework in which “an investor consortium including Oracle... Silver Lake and Andreessen Horowitz” would acquire an 80% stake. Oracle is of course run by David Ellison's father, Larry Ellison, one of the richest men in the world, while Andreessen Horowitz is the venture capital firm of Trump ally Marc Andreessen. Silver Lake is another Silicon Valley private equity firm. This deal would finally put an end to the nebulous legal limbo created by Congress passing the TikTok ban and Trump refusing to enforce it. According to this report, the new company that would be created to run TikTok in America, “would also have an American-dominated board with one member designated by the U.S. government.”* The administration is seeking to shore up support in corporate America in other ways too. Trump has renewed his 2018 push to eliminate the reports businesses are mandated to issue on a quarterly basis, moving to a biannual reporting system. Trump argues that this shift would “cut costs and discourage shortsightedness on the part of publicly traded companies.” Others however believe that this change could be harmful to the economy, making companies less transparent and therefore increasing potential investor risk. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said it is “making Trump's proposal a priority.” This from Reuters.* More troubling signs are emerging in the U.S economy. Per Bloomberg, “Consumers in the top 10% of the income distribution accounted for 49.2% of total spending,” in the second quarter of 2025. This is the highest percentage of consumer spending accounted for by that demographic going back to 1989, according to an analysis of the Federal Reserve's Financial Accounts and Survey of Consumer Finance data conducted by Mark Zandi, chief economist for Moody's. Chandan Economics reports a spike in late rent payments in August, suggesting stress in the “financial health of renter households,” while for homeowners, Polymarket reports that even more people are searching "help with mortgage" on Google than during the 2008 housing crisis. This comes as only 1.3 million home building permits were issued in August, the lowest level since the Spring of 2020, according to economist and Washington Post columnist Heather Long. Taken together, this data paints a picture of an economy flailing, and kept afloat only by the very rich.* Speaking of the very rich, the first American Pope, Leo the XIV, condemned the precipitous rise in CEO pay compared to their employees. Leo remarked that CEOs now make “600 times more than what average workers are receiving," adding "What does that mean…If [money] is the only thing that has value anymore, then we're in big trouble." Specifically, Leo was referring to the proposed new compensation package for Tesla CEO Elon Musk, which could turn the billionaire into a trillionaire. This from Yahoo! Finance. Senator Bernie Sanders echoed this sentiment, writing “The Pope is exactly right. No society can survive when one man becomes a trillionaire while the vast majority struggle to just survive — trying to put food on the table, pay rent and afford health care. We can and must do better.”* Turning to Israel and Gaza, AP reports Jerry Greenfield of Ben & Jerry's is resigning from the company after 47 years. In a letter, Jerry explains that he could not “in good conscience” remain at Ben & Jerry's because their parent company – the British conglomerate Unilever – has been constraining his ability to advocate against the genocide in Gaza. Jerry writes “For more than 20 years under their ownership, Ben & Jerry's stood up and spoke out in support of peace, justice and human rights, not as abstract concepts, but in relation to real events happening in our world…It's profoundly disappointing to come to the conclusion that that independence, the very basis of our sale to Unilever, is gone.” This is the largest, but by no means only, rupture between Ben & Jerry's and Unilever; this report notes “In March Ben & Jerry's said that its CEO was unlawfully removed by Unilever in retaliation for the ice cream maker's social and political activism.” However, as Greenfield's departure illustrates, the founders have little recourse besides their public platform and resignation.* In a sign of Israel's waning influence in the Democratic Party, POLITICO reports Democratic public affairs “megafirm” SKDK has ended their $600,000 contract with the state of Israel which was supposed to run from April 2025 through March 2026. The firm's recent focus had been “pitching guests for news shows to hear Israel's side of the war in Gaza.” The firm has been tight-lipped on this decision, saying only the work “had run its course.” Yet, this decision comes directly on the heels of reporting that Stagwell, the parent company of SKDK, was involved in “setting up a bot program ‘to amplify pro-Israel narratives on Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, YouTube, and other platforms,'” as revealed in a Foreign Agents Registration Act filing.* On Wednesday, Senator Bernie Sanders crossed a major rhetorical rubicon, labeling Israel's actions in Gaza a “genocide.” In an op-ed appropriate titled “It Is Genocide,” Sanders cites the casualty totals – noting that “The full toll is likely much higher, with many thousands of bodies buried under the rubble” – along with the Israeli blockade on the enclave and their systematic destruction of Gaza's infrastructure, including hospitals, water and sanitation facilities and schools. Sanders also cites the genocidal intent expressed by Israeli leaders, through quotes like “the Gaza Strip should be flattened, and there should be one sentence for everyone there — death. We have to wipe the Gaza Strip off the map. There are no innocents there.” Sanders concludes this piece by warning that if the world fails to act, as during the Holocaust, Netanyahu and other “demagogues” will feel emboldened. History, Sanders writes “demands that the world act with one voice to say: enough is enough. No more genocide.” After Sanders' announcement, Vermont Congresswoman Becca Balint came out with her own statement accepting the genocide label. Zeteo reports a total of 20 members of Congress now say Israel is committing genocide.* Finally, to end on a positive note, on Monday the House passed the bipartisan Mental Health in Aviation Act, which seeks to “break down…barriers and support the mental health of our aviation workforce by changing the current rules which prevent aviation professionals from seeking mental health care by imposing unfair penalties on those who do,” according to a press release by the bill's Republican sponsor Pete Stauber. A press release from the Democratic sponsor, Sean Casten, reads “Aviators should not be unfairly penalized for seeking mental health care…The current system perpetuates a culture of silence, and it's past time that changes.” Some observers have attributed some credit for the passage of this bill to the comedian Nathan Fielder's series The Rehearsal, the latest season of which dealt extensively with the issue of aviators' mental health. While congressional staff have downplayed the show's influence, it seems hard to deny that at the very least it raised the profile of this pressing issue. Either way, hopefully this bill will make it safer to fly by removing the stigma from pilots seeking mental healthcare. Get full access to Ralph Nader Radio Hour at www.ralphnaderradiohour.com/subscribe

- VW Starts Passing Tariff Costs to Consumers - EU Gets Its First Rare Earth Magnet Factory - Honda Opens New Recycling Center in Ohio - U.S. Senate Approves New NHTSA Director - Tier 1s Need Junk Bonds to Raise Capital - NVIDIA Invests in AV Company From UK - Waymo Gets into Public Transportation in Arizona - XPeng Says L4 Is Easier Than L2

- VW Starts Passing Tariff Costs to Consumers - EU Gets Its First Rare Earth Magnet Factory - Honda Opens New Recycling Center in Ohio - U.S. Senate Approves New NHTSA Director - Tier 1s Need Junk Bonds to Raise Capital - NVIDIA Invests in AV Company From UK - Waymo Gets into Public Transportation in Arizona - XPeng Says L4 Is Easier Than L2

Today on the show, the real estate industry has a reputation problem. Consumers are more informed than ever, but too many agents are still relying on outdated tactics, offering little more than door access or search filters. This isn't just inefficient—it's eroding trust in our profession. In a marketplace where clients are more informed, competition is tighter, and expectations are higher than ever, the role of the real estate agent has never been under more scrutiny.     The days of coasting on a license, a business card, and a few listings are long gone. Today's buyers and sellers demand expertise, innovation, and true value—and the agents who don't rise to the occasion risk being left behind. This conversation isn't just about survival—it's about redefining what excellence in real estate should look like. Featuring Brown Harris Steven's Executive Director, Jared Antin alongside President of Platinum Properties, Teresa Stephenson.     Filmed at Brown Harris Stevens' Studio 1873, Part of the Mastery of Real Estate (MORE) Network.     Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-new-york-real-estate-with-vince-rocco/id1645541166   Connect with Vince Rocco: https://www.bhsusa.com/real-estate-agent/vince-rocco   Connect with Jared Antin: https://www.bhsusa.com/bhs-leadership/jared-antin   Connect with Teresa Stephenson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresa-stephenson-0460b67/   Brown Harris Stevens is one of the largest privately owned real estate brokerages in the country, with more than 40 offices across four states: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Florida.   https://bhsusa.com/   #realestatebuyers #nycrealestate #realestate #vincerocco #TNYRE #theeverset #roadwaymoving #newyorkrealestate #nyc 

I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Angus Rittenburg, Co-Founder and CEO of WYNK, to explore one of the fastest-growing trends in the beverage industry: low-dose THC drinks. Angus shared his incredible journey from engineering at Tesla and SpaceX to launching a scrappy startup with a vision for healthier, more social alternatives to alcohol. What struck me most was how much of WYNK's story is about holding onto a vision—even when the path forward wasn't clear and staying scrappy, adaptable, and true to quality. In this episode, Angus and I discuss everything from his early mentor, who taught him to value education over money, to the inventive mobile production systems that helped WYNK break into multiple states, to the massive regulatory unlock that allowed hemp-derived THC beverages to finally reach mainstream shelves.  Along the way, we also explored the challenges of consumer education, the better-for-you movement in beverages, and what it takes to not just build a product but build a category. Here's what you'll learn in this episode: * How a mentor's belief in vision over money shaped Angus's entrepreneurial journey * The scrappy origins of WYNK and how a mobile canning trailer became the company's launchpad * Why low-dose THC beverages are poised to disrupt alcohol consumption trends * The regulatory shifts that allowed WYNK to expand beyond dispensaries into bars, restaurants, and liquor stores * How WYNK is investing in quality and compliance to build not just a brand, but an entire category Join me, Ramon Vela, as I listen to this fascinating episode of 'The Story of a Brand,' where we explore the vision, challenges, and triumphs behind WYNK, a brand rewriting the rules for social beverages.   For more on WYNK, visit: https://drinkwynk.com/   If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.  Plus, don't forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.  Your support helps us bring you more content like this! * Today's Sponsors: 1 Commerce: https://1-commerce.com/story-of-a-brand Scaling a DTC brand becomes harder the bigger you grow, especially when you're limited to selling on just one channel.  While you're focused on day-to-day ops, your competitors are unlocking marketplaces like Amazon, Walmart, and even retail shelf space—and capturing customers you're missing. That's where 1-Commerce comes in.  They help high-growth brands expand beyond their sites, handle end-to-end fulfillment, and scale through a revenue-share model that means they only win when you do.  As a Story of a Brand listener, you'll get one month of free storage and a strategy session with their CEO, Eric Kasper.    Color More Lines: https://www.colormorelines.com/get-started Color More Lines is a team of ex-Amazonians and e-commerce operators who help brands grow faster on Amazon and Walmart. With a performance-based pricing model and flexible contracts, they've generated triple-digit year-over-year growth for established sellers doing over $5 million per year. Use code "STORY OF A BRAND” and receive a complimentary market opportunity assessment of your e-commerce brand and marketplace positioning. 

The oil business is heading for a big bust, putting Texas in the crosshairs. While that's obviously not good for the economy as a whole, energy does tend to be a leading indicators and when the jobs starting being lost in the space in a big way it's a big red flag. Consumers know it, given what was also just reported from them, too. Eurodollar University's conversations w/Steve Van Metre---------------------------------------------------------------------------In a world where markets swing on every headline, focus matters. That's why Eurodollar University offers One Big Weekly Theme — a disciplined, thematic analysis you can count on.If you don't have the time to go all the way to the depth of Eurodollar University's comprehensive Deep Dive Analysis and want the next best thing, One Big Weekly Theme is for you. https://eurodollaruniversity.substack.com/---------------------------------------------------------------------------https://www.eurodollar.universityTwitter: https://twitter.com/JeffSnider_EDU