Person or group of people that are the final users or consumers of products and or services; one who pays something to consume goods and services produced
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Tracy Reiman, is the newly appointed President of PETA, marking a historic new chapter for the world's largest animal rights organisation — and the first leadership change in PETA's 45-year history. With more than three decades at PETA, Tracy has helped lead landmark victories against fur, circuses, and animal testing, and now she's turning her focus to leather, wool, and ... READ MORE The post PETA's Tracy Reiman: Ending Humane Washing and Creating The Next Generation Of Compassionate Consumers. appeared first on Healthification.
South African consumers have been urged to shop responsibly as retailers begin to advertise Black Friday deals, just weeks before the annual Christmas shopping rush. The warning comes as millions of consumers buckle under the pressure of a rising cost of living and high unemployment rates, which have left some shoppers unable to access much credit. Instead of impulsive buying, shoppers have been advised to maximise the savings from Black Friday deals to cover Christmas gifts or even back-to-school essentials. For more on how YOU, the consumer can navigate this period, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to National Consumer Commission Spokesperson, Pheto Ntaba
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LY2w1o-wpmQ Aaron Gallagher is the Managing Director and Head of Sales at Head of Sales Kinective Media℠ by United Airlines, the carrier's very own Media Network. He joins Daniel live from SMG and ADWEEK's Retail Media Summit UK 2025 to speak about the opportunities in this unique proposition. Tune in to hear about: The uniqueness of an airline media network and all the different touchpoints with passengers Consumers' unique behavioral pattern when traveling How they can cater a unique value premium proposition to Polaris (business) flyers Opportunities for FMCG brands And, of course, some good old aviation geeking! More Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fmcgguys/ Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fmcgguys/ Audio Mixing by Modest Ferrer Voice Acting by Jason Martorell Parsekian Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individual guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of The FMCG Guys (Dwyer Partners SL) or its partners. The FMCG Guys make no representations or warranties about the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of any information discussed, and accept no responsibility for any decisions or outcomes based on this content. Listeners are encouraged to seek their own professional advice before acting on any of the topics covered.
MRKT Matrix - Friday, November 14th Nasdaq closes higher, snapping three-day losing streak as tech stocks recover some ground (CNBC) September jobs report will be out Thursday as first data since shutdown starts to trickle out (CNBC) Fed's Hawks Seize Spotlight Making Case Against a December Cut (Bloomberg) Fewer burritos, more bargains: Consumers flash holiday warning signs (CNBC) Walmart's Doug McMillon to Step Down as CEO After Over a Decade (WSJ) Wall Street is counting on Nvidia's earnings next week to revive the AI trade (CNBC) Stress Testing Amid Rising Fears of an AI Bubble (FactSet) Who Will Pay for the AI Revolution? Retirees (WSJ) --- Subscribe to our newsletter: https://riskreversalmedia.beehiiv.com/subscribe MRKT Matrix by RiskReversal Media is a daily AI powered podcast bringing you the top stories moving financial markets Story curation by RiskReversal, scripts by Perplexity Pro, voice by ElevenLabs
Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane explain what the 'K' shaped economy is, and why it is a problem. What does our Michael Burry obsession say about us? Fewer burritos, more bargains: Consumers flash holiday warning signs. Here are the new 401(k) and IRA contribution limits for 2026. Here's how Robinhood will deliver bags of cash to your doorstep safely. Paul LaMonica (Barron's) joins the show to chat about Circle and crypto's recent wild ride.
Ari Paparo and Eric Franchi sit down with Paul Bannister, Chief Strategy Officer of Raptive, unpack new research on how audiences respond to AI-written content, why trust changes depending on labeling and experience, and what shifting traffic patterns mean for publishers. The conversation moves from consumer behavior to the realities of the open web, the role of strong brands, and how AI tools are reshaping ad operations. Takeaways Readers trust AI content less when labeling is unclear. Suspicion of AI drops trust more than actual AI writing. People struggle to identify whether content is AI or human. Heavy AI users become highly skeptical of AI content. Traffic declines hit factual verticals harder than lifestyle. Strong brands cushion publishers from search volatility. Smaller sites dependent on SEO face the greatest risk. Reducing ad clutter can improve both outcomes and revenue. AI tools are speeding up slow ad ops and campaign setup. CTV continues to drive most of the open web growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 03:00 AI and Content Trust Issues 09:00 Impact of AI on Traffic and Branding 15:00 Earnings Reports and Industry News 21:00 AI in Programmatic Advertising 27:00 Challenges for Small Publishers 33:00 The Role of Human Involvement in AI Content 39:00 Future Trends in Digital Advertising Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Retailers don't have to wait for electric vehicles to cut emissions, operational efficiency can make a difference today. Black Friday keeps getting bigger every year. In the US alone, online sales will pass $10 billion over the weekend. Millions of parcels hit the roads, releasing millions of tonnes of CO in just a few days. And Ireland is no exception. The average Irish consumer is expected to spend €329 over the Black Friday period, with 63% of sales taking place online. That means a surge in home deliveries right across the country and a sharp rise in vehicle emissions as vans race to meet tight delivery windows (PWC). Sustainability strategies for Black Friday Some of the larger retailers are trying to get greener, but their plans are far off. IKEA has targets for electric deliveries by 2028, while Amazon and Currys aim for net zero by 2040. These goals are important, but they take time. Charging infrastructure, vehicle supply, and range limitations mean electric fleets cannot scale overnight. "The problem is that everyone's waiting for the future to fix the present," says David Walsh, CEO of SmartRoutes. "If retailers focused on using what they already have more efficiently, they could cut a fifth of delivery emissions almost overnight." Smarter planning can make a big difference. By consolidating stops, reducing duplicated routes, and grouping orders efficiently, retailers can reduce total distance driven by 15 to 20 percent. Over a peak week like Black Friday, that is the equivalent of taking more than 300,000 cars off the road. "The final mile is where a lot of the waste happens," Walsh adds. "You'll see two vans from the same retailer passing each other on the same street. That is completely avoidable." Consumers are also making more sustainable choices. Many choose to group deliveries if it means fewer trips. That creates pressure for retailers to reduce delivery emissions, not just focus on packaging or product sustainability. There is also a clear business case. Every mile avoided saves fuel and time. For large retailers, the savings can be significant, while still meeting customer expectations. Black Friday is the busiest delivery period of the year, but it also offers the biggest opportunity to make a measurable difference. Electrification will shape the future, but smarter delivery planning can reduce emissions today. Author bio: Caroline Hassett is a content marketer with over seven years of experience, working with SaaS companies to communicate complex technology and business topics. She writes about trends in technology, logistics and last-mile delivery. Company bio: SmartRoutes is an Irish delivery operations platform focused on helping businesses plan efficient, lower-emission delivery routes. Its research explores ways retailers can reduce carbon emissions in logistics and the final mile. See more breaking stories here. 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 Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.
A protein journalist says the technological revolution is helping shape the buying patterns of consumers more today than over the past century. "The Retail Meat Counter; What consumers are buying and how is it changing?" was among the topics discussed as part of the Saskatchewan Pork Industry Symposium.Lisa Keefe says demographics are increasingly shaping consumer buying patterns.Pulse Canada was in China this past week. The goal was to work to maintain one-on-one relationships with business contacts in the effort to persuade the Chinese government to drop hefty tariffs on peas and canola. Pulse Canada President Greg Cherewyk spoke prior to his flight to China.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss Disney saying film studio expenses weigh on current quarter. Streaming prices are soaring, and consumers are still paying. The Nasdaq whale's Nvidia sale smells desperate. Sundar Pichai is Google's AI wartime CEO after all. Toyota doubles down on hybrids in the US. Michael Burry shuts down Scion.
Purpose Driven Entrepreneurship is about more than building companies. It is about creating businesses that align with values, serve people with excellence, and leave a lasting legacy. In a world where profit often overshadows purpose, entrepreneurs who choose to build with impact stand out as innovators and leaders. David Sauers exemplifies this philosophy. As an entrepreneur and co-founder of Royal Restrooms, his career reflects a commitment to elevating the ordinary into something extraordinary. What began as a vision to redefine the portable restroom industry has grown into a national brand recognized for transforming events, weddings, and public gatherings into experiences marked by dignity and comfort. By taking something as overlooked as restrooms and applying creativity, innovation, and service, David demonstrated what purpose driven entrepreneurship looks like in action. But his story doesn't stop there. Beyond Royal Restrooms, David has ventured into industries ranging from rugged overland campers to nonprofit initiatives abroad. In every case, his work is fueled by a belief that business should reflect more than financial return. It should represent vision, values, and service to others. That perspective not only sets his ventures apart but also highlights a model for entrepreneurs everywhere who want to grow without losing sight of what matters most. Purpose driven entrepreneurship also emphasizes resilience. David's journey underscores that challenges are part of building any enterprise, but a mission-driven mindset turns obstacles into opportunities. By viewing setbacks as temporary and aligning decisions with core values, leaders can navigate uncertainty while keeping their organizations on track. This principle resonates with entrepreneurs across industries who face constant change and competition. Another hallmark of purpose driven entrepreneurship is its impact on people. Businesses that operate with a clear sense of purpose attract teams who believe in the mission. They inspire loyalty, foster innovation, and create cultures that sustain long-term success. David's ventures are examples of how focusing on people and purpose results in stronger organizations that deliver not only profits but also meaningful contributions to communities. For business leaders and entrepreneurs, the lesson is clear: aligning profit with purpose is no longer optional—it is a competitive advantage. Consumers and employees alike are drawn to organizations that stand for something beyond transactions. Entrepreneurs who prioritize purpose position themselves to grow sustainably, differentiate their brands, and build lasting legacies. Purpose driven entrepreneurship is not about choosing between impact and income. It is about recognizing that both can and should coexist. By embedding purpose into strategy, entrepreneurs create businesses that thrive financially while serving people at the highest level. David Sauers is a prime example of how vision, creativity, and commitment to values can reshape industries and inspire others to follow suit. Entrepreneurship will always demand risk, innovation, and hard work. But when it is guided by purpose, it becomes more than a career path—it becomes a platform for influence, service, and transformation. That is the true essence of purpose driven entrepreneurship, and why leaders like David Sauers continue to stand out in today's business landscape. Join Fordify LIVE! every Wednesday at 11 a.m. Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom. About David Sauers David Sauers is an entrepreneur and co-founder of Royal Restrooms. Since 2004, he has transformed industries through ventures that elevate the ordinary into the extraordinary, from luxury portable restrooms to rugged overland campers and nonprofit initiatives abroad. His work reflects a philosophy that business is personal and that true entrepreneurship is purpose driven, creating impact and leaving a lasting legacy. Learn more at RoyalRestrooms.com and DavidSauers.com. About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator who has helped generate more than a billion dollars in sales worldwide, working with companies from start-ups to Fortune 500s. As President and CEO of Prime Concepts Group, Inc., he specializes in helping businesses attract loyal customers, expand brand awareness, and spark innovation. An entrepreneurial powerhouse, Ford has founded over ten companies, authored five books, been awarded three U.S. patents, and received numerous industry honors. His expertise also extends into artificial intelligence, where he is recognized for his work in AI prompt engineering and training AI systems to create content that drives real engagement and results. Recently featured at the "Unleash AI for Business Summit," Ford shared insights on how ChatGPT is transforming operations, marketing, sales, and customer experience. Learn more at ProfitRichResults.com and watch his TV show at Fordify.tv.
The retail consumer is struggling with a forming K-shaped economy, says Charles Schwab's Joe Mazzola. He believes the markets want to see more economic data to clear the "murky" air around the economy. However, Joe sees market breadth expanding as a signal of strength for the stock market's outlook. It comes with a doubled-edged sword: the Mag 7's lack of leadership in recent sessions.======== 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
AI agents are impacting commerce, and Katherine Black thinks they will “transform the retail industry.” She argues that consumers are “researching” on agentic platforms for deals and product quality, which she thinks will eventually move to “transacting on site.” Consumers seem interested in using the technology, particularly “price sensitive” groups. She notes, though, that the technology needs to win consumer trust.======== 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
This Day in Legal History: Happy Brandeis DayOn November 13, 1856, Louis Brandeis was born in Louisville, Kentucky. He would go on to become one of the most influential jurists in American legal history. Appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1916 by President Woodrow Wilson, Brandeis was the first Jewish justice and brought a deeply progressive and pragmatic philosophy to the bench. Long before his judicial career, he co-authored the seminal 1890 Harvard Law Review article “The Right to Privacy,” articulating a legal theory that would shape decades of constitutional interpretation. On the Court, he consistently championed civil liberties, individual privacy, and limitations on unchecked government and corporate power.Brandeis was known for his meticulous reasoning and willingness to dissent, often laying the groundwork for future majority opinions. In Whitney v. California (1927), his concurring opinion defended free speech in sweeping terms, arguing that the remedy for harmful ideas was more speech, not enforced silence—a principle that remains central to First Amendment jurisprudence. In economic cases, he frequently opposed monopolistic practices and was skeptical of concentrated financial power, earning him the moniker “the people's lawyer.” His distrust of large institutions was not ideological but rooted in a belief that democracy and individual autonomy could only flourish when those institutions were held accountable.Brandeis also advanced the use of social science and empirical data in legal arguments, exemplified by the famous “Brandeis Brief” in Muller v. Oregon (1908), which emphasized real-world facts over abstract legal theory. He believed that courts should understand the broader implications of their rulings, particularly in cases affecting labor, privacy, and civil rights. Though his views were sometimes out of step with his contemporaries, many of his ideas became mainstream in later decades. Brandeis served on the Court until 1939, leaving a legacy of principled independence and intellectual rigor.House Democrats have released emails suggesting that Donald Trump may have been aware of Jeffrey Epstein's abuse of underage girls. The documents include a 2019 email in which Epstein told author Michael Wolff that Trump “knew about the girls” and asked Ghislaine Maxwell to “stop,” as well as a 2011 message from Epstein to Maxwell claiming Trump spent significant time at his house with one of Epstein's victims. The victim's name is redacted, but the White House says it refers to the late Virginia Giuffre, who has publicly stated that Trump was not involved in any wrongdoing.Trump has consistently denied any knowledge of Epstein's crimes, emphasizing that their friendship ended years before Epstein's death in jail in 2019. The White House dismissed the email release as a politically motivated stunt and accused Democrats of constructing a “fake narrative.” Still, the controversy has stirred unease among Trump's base, with recent polling showing only 40% of Republicans support his handling of the Epstein case—far less than his usual approval ratings.Wednesday's release coincides with the swearing-in of Democratic Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva, whose vote could trigger a full House vote to declassify all Epstein-related records. Democrats, led by Rep. Robert Garcia, are pushing for full transparency, alleging that attempts to conceal the files raise deeper concerns about Trump's connection to Epstein.House Democrats release Epstein papers saying Trump ‘knew about the girls' | ReutersApple says recent fee cuts for app developers in the EU, made to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), have not led to lower prices for consumers. The company commissioned a study showing that developers kept prices the same or raised them for 90% of products, with only 9% seeing reductions—and those were consistent with typical pricing trends, not fee changes. Most of the financial benefit from reduced commissions, totaling €20.1 million, went to non-EU developers.Apple argues this undermines the DMA's goal of helping consumers and fostering competition, instead creating new hurdles for startups and potential risks for users. The European Commission has not yet commented. The DMA targets tech giants like Apple, Google, Meta, and Microsoft, aiming to level the playing field and offer users more choice.Developer fee cuts not passed on to EU users, Apple says | ReutersGoogle has filed a federal lawsuit in New York aiming to dismantle an international phishing operation it claims originated in China. According to the complaint, the group used software called “Lighthouse” to impersonate entities like Google, the U.S. Postal Service, and E-ZPass, sending fake text messages that tricked users into revealing sensitive personal and financial information. Nearly 200,000 fraudulent websites were allegedly created in just 20 days, targeting over a million people across more than 120 countries.Google accuses the 25 unnamed defendants of trademark infringement, false advertising, and racketeering, and is seeking financial damages as well as legal orders to shut the scheme down in the U.S. The company estimates the group may have stolen between 12.7 million and 115 million U.S. credit card numbers. Google's general counsel also backed proposed federal legislation to strengthen protections against similar scams.Google sues in New York to break up text phishing scheme | Reuters This is a public episode. 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Dig deeper into why Singapore's food sustainability targets have changed. Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests. The original goal was for farms here to produce 30 per cent of the country’s nutritional needs, which include fish, eggs and vegetables. Now it's 20 per cent of Singapore's fibre and 30 per cent of protein needs by 2035. Natasha speaks with Ken Cheong, chief executive of the Singapore Agro-Food Enterprises Federation and Ray Poh, founder of Artisan Green, an indoor farm that grows pesticide-free crops – about what measures are needed to help local farms grow and why egg farmers are doing well. What will help every farm become a "good farm" and should we have CDC-type vouchers to get consumers to buy local produce? Highlights (click/tap above): 1:31 Why was the initial goal so difficult to achieve? 4:37 Economies of scale lowers operational costs 7:55 Why transport is the biggest bugbear for local produce 21:56 Why local eggs are safe to be eaten half-boiled 28:52 Will CDC vouchers push more to buy local produce? Follow The Usual Place podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN Filmed by: Studio+65 Edited by: Teo Tong Kai and Chen Junyi Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis Editorial producer: Lynda Hong Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday: Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX -- #tup #tuptr See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Consumers may have revved up their spending in October, but spending more doesn't mean getting more — prices are also up this holiday season. In this episode, why most shoppers feel like they're doing less with more. Plus: Auto loan delinquencies rise, mortgage applications heat up during an often-chilly season, and Kai explains the price-earnings ratio of the S&P 500, which is at a decades-high.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.
Consumers may have revved up their spending in October, but spending more doesn't mean getting more — prices are also up this holiday season. In this episode, why most shoppers feel like they're doing less with more. Plus: Auto loan delinquencies rise, mortgage applications heat up during an often-chilly season, and Kai explains the price-earnings ratio of the S&P 500, which is at a decades-high.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.
On the podcast, we talk with Eric about the opportunities and challenges of AI for consumer apps, what you can learn from Strava acquiring Runna, and the flawed thinking around ‘subscription fatigue'.Top Takeaways:
Stocks are up. Consumers are cautious. We unpack the widening gap between Wall Street's rally and Main Street's reality, from falling consumer confidence to rising credit card balances. And how you should approach it from an investment perspective.
Two articles caught our attention. The first was in The Hollywood Reporter about a new movie theater concepts with private rooms and high end food in New York. The second was a story about the power of IMAX in the movie industry, per the Wall Street Journal. In this episode, Joe Pine, Aransas Savas, and Dave Norton discuss the evolving landscape of the movie theater experience, particularly in light of the pandemic's impact. They explore new concepts in Hollywood, such as premium movie theaters and IMAX, and how these innovations cater to changing consumer preferences. The conversation emphasizes the importance of customization, personalization, and the need for theaters to create engaging experiences that resonate with audiences. The hosts also provide valuable insights for experience strategists on how to adapt to these trends and enhance the overall consumer experience. Takeaways The pandemic significantly impacted the movie theater industry, leading to a decline in attendance. Premiumization is a key trend in the film industry, focusing on enhancing the overall experience. Customization and personalization are crucial for attracting audiences back to theaters. Consumers decide the 'when' or the situation, then watch the movie Theaters need to innovate and create engaging environments to compete with home viewing. Experience strategists should measure the money value of time (MVT) in their offerings. The integration of social components can enhance the movie-going experience. Chapters 01:23 Hollywood's New Movie Theater Concepts 02:38 The Impact of the Pandemic on Movie Theaters 04:47 Premiumization in the Film Industry 06:40 Customization and Personalization of Movie Experiences 08:57 Consumer Preferences Post-COVID 11:38 The Role of IMAX and Alternative Experiences 16:41 Innovations in the Theater Space 20:15 Key Takeaways for Experience Strategists Read More: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/inside-metro-private-cinema-tim-league-movie-theater-1236311204/ https://www.wsj.com/business/media/imax-movie-release-trend-6f4587a2?st=PKpj1G&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink Podcast Sponsors: Learn more about Stone Mantel https://www.stonemantel.co Sign up for the Experience Strategist Substack here: https://theexperiencestrategist.substack.com
Join Fast Casual Nation hosts Paul Barron and Cherryh Cansler as they sit down with Stephanie Perdue, VP of Brand Marketing at Chipotle Mexican Grill, to discuss how the fast casual leader is navigating industry challenges. Learn about Chipotle's accelerated menu innovation strategy, including fresh sauces made daily and the new Build Your Own meal for groups. Discover how they're winning back Gen Z through gamification, the Chipotle U rewards program, and transparent food storytelling. Stephanie shares insights on digital transformation with 38% of sales now digital, AI initiatives empowering crew members, and the strategic roadmap for 2026 amid industrywide headwinds.#FastCasual #RestaurantIndustry #ChipotleEpisode Highlights0:00 - Intro & fast casual overview0:19 - Economic shifts & traffic decline0:46 - Guest: Stephanie Perdue, VP of Brand at Chipotle1:17 - Rise of “micro meals” & snacking trend3:10 - How fast casual brands are adapting4:20 - Gen Z habits & fewer restaurant visits5:12 - Inside Chipotle's marketing & menu innovation7:46 - Gen Z's love for bold flavor & customization8:00 - New family meal concept & digital ordering10:05 - Convenience for families & busy lifestyles12:00 - Connecting with Gen Z through rewards & authenticity13:49 - Balancing quality, value, and rising costs14:38 - Using creators to highlight real ingredients15:55 - Portion size debate & customer perception17:34 - Rewards, nutrition goals & app experience19:46 - Listening to customers & TikTok hacks20:30 - New sauces & flavor innovationGet Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
Consumers across Ireland and the EU are benefiting from a new energy label on smartphones and tablets, that rates devices on energy efficiency, durability, and repairability. This initiative is part of the new Ecodesign and Energy Labelling Regulations introduced in June 2025, which will empower consumers to make choices that go beyond the price tag. Research shows that consumers consistently rank longevity and reliability of appliances and electronic goods among their top decision factors, alongside price, brand, and warranty. However, until recently, consumers had to rely on their own research to evaluate these factors for smartphones and tablets. The new EU-wide label provides clear, comparable information on how products perform in areas that matter most: Energy efficiency: rated from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) Battery life and endurance: how long your device lasts between charges and over its lifetime Durability: including resistance to drops and protection from dust or water Repairability class: showing how easily devices can be fixed and spare parts accessed The label is now mandatory in-store and online, providing an easy-to-understand guide to help consumers make their purchasing decisions. "These new labels give consumers a clear comparison on key factors when buying a new smart device. Choosing a phone or tablet with better energy efficiency and durability isn't just about fewer charges or a tougher screen. It's about getting more value and creating less waste. Devices that last longer and are easier to repair help consumers save money and are more sustainable", Tim Stokes, Market Surveillance Programme Manager at the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, explained. "Empowering consumers with better information through the new energy label can significantly influence energy use, especially given the vast number of devices in circulation. By choosing longer-lasting, repairable products, individuals help reduce waste, conserve resources, and lower lifecycle energy consumption. When millions make these informed choices, small actions will create major impact. This behavioural shift to more sustainable consumption model supports both national and EU-wide efforts toward a circular economy, where products last longer, cost less over time, and have a reduced environmental footprint", Stokes added. With the new energy label, consumers are better equipped than ever to choose smartphones and tablets that last longer, perform better, and support a more sustainable future. To learn more about the energy label for smartphones and tablets, visit our website.
Join Charlotte Forkes-Rees, Hannah Clarke and Tom Spencer as they take a deep dive into a recent AHDB report that found British consumer trust in farmers has reached a record high.The trio also catch up with Lancashire farmer Eden Hill, who understands the importance of that trust and combined with the power of social media is successfully selling her meat boxes.And our F.I.E.L.D. agents begin their quest to jargon bust. No acronym is safe (even ours).Some useful bits from the episode:Consumer trust in British agriculture and farmers reaches record high | AHDBLancashire Lamb Boxes | Our Story — Lancashire Lamb BoxesCharlotte, Hannah and Tom are very keen to hear your feedback, comments, stories and suggestions for future topics to discuss in the show. You get can in touch with the team by emailing agshow@ahdb.org.uk.Sign up to the AHDB Preference Centre so that you can:Easily update your preferences and contact informationGet information on the latest AHDB events, webinars, market insights and moreReceive important updates such as disease alerts
A defining feature of the creeping leftism the country has experienced over the last several years is just that: It's creeping, coming in on padded feet behind the scenes until Americans began to see it everywhere, in boardrooms, schoolrooms, and entertainment options. Now, there's real concern that emerging technology like AI is embracing the ideology of woke on the sly, bringing it into the very information people seek online. Fortunately, there are organizations monitoring these things on behalf of consumers, such as Consumers Research via their Woke Alerts, which very recently sounded the alarm about a partnership between Anthropic AI and Salesforce that they say could make it easier to push left-wing ideologies on technology consumers.Here to discuss is Will Hild, Executive Director of Consumers' Research.Consumer protection organization warns of partnership between two 'woke' tech companiesWoke alertMarc BenioffSam Bankman-FriedEffective Altruism Animal Welfare Fund
This week on Beyond the Shelf, we're joined by Carter Zwick, Partnerships and Insights Lead at Snag, a retail activation platform helping brands get in front of the Gen Z shopper with smarter sampling and real-world insights.College students are some of the most valuable—and most overlooked—shoppers in the market today. So how do you reach them early and build brand loyalty that lasts?Carter shares how his own caffeine habits were shaped in a college dorm room, why brands need to meet students where they are (physically and emotionally), and how to turn sampling into something measurable, actionable, and long-term.What You'll Learn:Why the college campus is one of the most powerful—and underutilized—marketing arenasHow early brand experiences shape long-term loyaltyWhat new brands can do to win share from legacy competitorsWhy product sampling isn't just for awareness—it's a long gameConnect with Carter on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker
The November 11 edition of the AgNet News Hour featured an in-depth conversation with Ryan Jacobsen, President and CEO of the Fresno County Farm Bureau, who joined hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill to reflect on the past year in agriculture and look ahead to 2026. Jacobsen, a fourth-generation Central Valley farmer, described 2025 as “one of the most unique and challenging years in decades.” He noted that while the weather was remarkably mild for most of the year, the harvest season tested farmers' patience and endurance. “We had about seven different storms roll through during harvest,” he said. “Farmers were working like madness between each one, trying to dry crops, pick what they could, and prepare for the next round of rain.” Despite the setbacks, Jacobsen praised growers' resilience and credited advancements in meteorology for helping minimize losses. “We get far more heads-up now than we did 20 years ago,” he said. “That preparation made all the difference this year.” Jacobsen also addressed the growing complexity of farming in an urbanized state. “We're still dealing with the same core issues—water, labor, and regulation—but the complexity of each has skyrocketed,” he said. “It's more difficult to farm today than it's ever been, but we keep finding ways to adapt.” Representing more than 1.8 million acres of farmland, Jacobsen said he feels an enormous responsibility to be a voice for California agriculture. “We grow nearly 350 different crops here,” he said. “California's diversity in crops and people is unmatched anywhere else in the world, and it's our job to protect it.” He expressed concern over increasing imports that undermine local farmers. “When I was a kid, imported food made up less than 10 percent of our supply. Today, it's over 40 percent,” he said. “Consumers want quality, but many still buy based on price. That's the challenge — we produce the safest, most sustainable food in the world, but we need fair policies and informed consumers who understand that value.” Jacobsen also discussed the need for education and outreach to reconnect Californians with farming. “So many people have no idea how food gets to their table,” he said. “Some think almonds grow underground or that chocolate milk comes from brown cows. We've got to bridge that gap.” On labor and immigration reform, Jacobsen was cautiously optimistic. “I'm hopeful this administration will finally bring common-sense reform,” he said. “If we can secure the border, recognize the people already working productively in agriculture, and support fair trade, California can thrive again.” He ended the conversation with gratitude for the people who make agriculture possible — from growers to packers, truck drivers, and farm employees. “We're entering a season of thankfulness,” Jacobsen said. “Every meal we enjoy is thanks to thousands of people working behind the scenes. That's what makes California agriculture so special.”
SBS Finance Editor Ricardo Gonçalves speaks with Westpac's Matt Hassan about a dramatic rise in consumer confidence, despite reaccelerating inflation and diminishing prospects of lower interest rates; plus the day on the sharemarket with Jamie Hannah from VanEck, including a closer look at the Commonwealth Bank's latest profit result.
In this episode of the Fearless Sellers podcast, host Joie Roberts speaks with Hitha Herzog, chief research officer at H Squared Research, about the current landscape of retail intelligence and consumer behavior. They discuss key trends that Amazon sellers need to be aware of, including the resilience of consumers, the importance of understanding credit card spending, and the role of influencers in shaping purchasing decisions. Herzog emphasizes the need for sellers to marry brand performance with data insights and to leverage AI for dynamic pricing strategies. The conversation also touches on the missed opportunities in Amazon storefronts and the importance of staying informed about market trends to succeed in the competitive retail environment. Takeaways Retail sales in the U.S. grew by 5% year over year, exceeding expectations. Consumers are resilient despite economic uncertainties, particularly older generations. Gen Z and millennials are more cautious with credit card spending due to limited savings. Amazon sellers should focus on credit card spending trends to inform their strategies. Marrying brand messaging with performance data is crucial for long-term success. Influencers continue to play a significant role in consumer purchasing decisions. Dynamic pricing on Amazon can change rapidly, requiring sellers to stay agile. AI can help sellers optimize their pricing strategies and marketing efforts. Sellers should analyze geographic demographics to better target their products. Staying informed through business news is essential for understanding market trends.
Most brands treat consumer feedback like a necessary evil. Chris Bellinger, Chief Creative Officer at PepsiCo Foods US, reveals how top creative teams turn feedback into their secret weapon. Chris bridges the gap between bold creative vision and consumer truth, transforming how iconic brands like Lay's and Doritos connect with audiences. In this episode hosted by Nataly Kelly, CMO at Zappi, Chris walks us through the strategies and tactics that will save your best creative ideas from dying in focus groups. Discover Chris' 70-20-10 framework for balancing proven strategies with breakthrough risks, learn the "bulletproofing" method that strengthens ideas without killing creativity, and understand why the best feedback comes from in-environment testing rather than traditional focus groups. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The latest in business, financial, and market news and how it impacts your money, reported by CNBC's Peter Schacknow Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of Energy Newsbeat Daily Standup, Stu Turley and Michael Tanner break down why U.S. drilling success still comes down to “location, location, location.” They analyze breakeven costs across major basins, rising LNG demand and natural gas prices, and the growing acceptance of natural gas as a “clean” fuel. The hosts discuss Pine Gate Renewables' bankruptcy, Orsted's mounting losses, and the ripple effects of inflation on ConocoPhillips' Willow project. They wrap with insights on rig counts, production strategies, and why smart investors are turning back to oil and gas for real returns.Subscribe to Our Substack For Daily Insights Want to Add Oil & Gas To Your Portfolio? Fill Out Our Oil & Gas Portfolio Survey Need Power For Your Data Center, Hospital, or Business? Follow Stuart On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuturley/ andTwitter: https://twitter.com/STUARTTURLEY16 Follow Michael On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelta... andTwitter: https://twitter.com/mtanner_1 Timestamps: Highlights of the Podcast 00:00 - Intro00:14 - U.S. Drilling Programs Are Resilient, but It Depends on the Location03:57 - U.S. Natural Gas Futures Up on Record LNG Export Demand, and Low Storage Numbers07:51 - UK, Japan, Germany and Other Countries Sign Declaration to Support a Global Market for Natural Gas with Lower Methane Emissions10:25 - Pine Gate Renewables files for bankruptcy, selling solar business and project portfolio15:53 - Market Updates17:12 - Rig Counts in the United States are Up, but What Does This Mean for Investors and Consumers?20:22 - ConocoPhillips Lifts Dividend 8% and Raises 2025 Output – What Should Investors Look For?24:30 - Outro Links to articles discussed:U.S. Drilling Programs Are Resilient, but It Depends on the LocationU.S. Natural Gas Futures Up on Record LNG Export Demand, and Low Storage NumbersUK, Japan, Germany and Other Countries Sign Declaration to Support a Global Market for Natural Gas with Lower Methane EmissionsPine Gate Renewables files for bankruptcy, selling solar business and project portfolioRig Counts in the United States are Up, but What Does This Mean for Investors and Consumers?ConocoPhillips Lifts Dividend 8% and Raises 2025 Output – What Should Investors Look For?
FraudSMART, the fraud awareness initiative led by Banking & Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI), is issuing a fresh warning to consumers, particularly those over the age of 50, to be on alert as highly convincing investment scams, promising guaranteed and profitable returns, continue to rise. The latest trend has seen a marked increase in the use of pop-up adverts online and on social media, featuring fake, AI-generated endorsements from celebrities as FraudSMART joins forces with football legend Niall Quinn to launch a new awareness campaign. Niamh Davenport, Head of Financial Crime with BPFI, said: "Scammers are continually finding new and complex ways of luring people into investment scams, often targeting people over 50 who may be looking for an opportunity to top up their finances ahead of retirement or to boost their current pension. In recent months, FraudSMART members have noticed a particular rise in 'pop-up' adverts featuring fake, AI-generated endorsements from well-regarded and trusted celebrities. These scams can promote a wide range of supposed investment opportunities, from cryptocurrencies to more traditional options such as bonds or shares. They can be difficult to recognise as fake, leading to an increasing number of people falling victim." Describing how fraudsters are catching people out, Ms Davenport continued: "Consumers who click on "Learn More" in the pop-up advert are asked to fill in a short form with their contact details so that they can receive more information. This is followed by a call, needless to say not from the featured celebrity, but from a so-called 'financial advisor' of an investment company. The 'advisor' often uses the names and branding of well-recognised banks and investment firms, with some fraudsters even going so far as to create a 'copy-cat' profile on social media of a real employee or 'agent' from an investment firm to convince people of their legitimacy and may even send an email with a link to what looks like a high-end and very convincing brochure. Once the victim is convinced to make an investment and has authorised the payment, as soon as the money has reached the criminal's account, the criminal will quickly transfer the money onwards to numerous other accounts, often abroad, where it is then cashed out." Gardaí have recorded a 21% increase in investment scams in the three months up to October 2025 Niall Smith, Detective Sergeant at the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau, stated: "Last year, almost €31 million was reported stolen in Ireland through investment fraud, up from €14 million in 2021. While overall reports of investment fraud have remained consistent with 2024 levels, a concerning 21% increase has been recorded in the three months up to October 2025, with large sums of money reported stolen. Losses can start anywhere from €250 on a crypto scam, but for bigger investment scams involving bonds and shares, average individual losses are ranging between €30,000 - €40,000, and unfortunately, there are victims who have lost multiples of this. While the amounts may be high, victims are not necessarily wealthy, but often people who have worked hard to build up a pension and are looking for a last opportunity to top up their finances ahead of or during retirement. We would like to advise all members of the public, particularly those over the age of 50, to be on alert for these scams and if you believe you may be victim of investment fraud, to report it to your bank and An Garda Síochána as soon as possible. Always seek trusted advice before making any investments, and if an offer sounds too good to be true, then unfortunately it probably is." FraudSMART joins forces with football legend Niall Quinn to launch national awareness campaign FraudSMART has joined forces with football legend Niall Quinn to launch a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about these investment scams, the red flags to look out for and tips on how people can protect themselves. Mr Quinn stated:...
It's been quite the year for Obsidian Entertainment. Following three major releases in one year with Avowed, Grounded 2 (Early Access), and The Outer Worlds 2. Obsidian finds itself discussing their future and relevance in a world where "Microsoft Gaming" exists. Cog and Hoeg discuss the significance of revisiting the Pillars of Eternity universe with their latest turn based announcement. What does the future also hold for this studio? In addition to all the latest news in the world of Xbox! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro0:02:50 - Health Is Wealth0:05:01 - Does Cog Really Hate Exclusives?0:17:14 - Xbox Hybrid Future?0:33:59 - Cancelling Game Pass Ultimate?0:40:32 - Destiny 2 New Renegades expansion0:49:39 - Nintendo's Patent in Palworld Dispute is Being Re-examined1:03:54 - Devs believe Steam has a monopoly on PC games?1:14:03 - Consumers spend more on remakes than remasters1:22:42 - Battlefield 6 Has Reportedly Sold Over 10 Million Copies1:31:21 - Arc Raiders early success & roadmap1:40:33 - Black Ops 7 ROG Xbox Ally X Support1:44:22 - Expedition 33 & Final Fantasy VII Remake event1:52:52 - What We Are Playing2:11:36 - Obsidian announces Pillars of Eternity Turn-Based Mode & talks future2:42:41 - Xbox Q1 hardware sales down2:54:20 - Xbox - Ex-Boxer commercial Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Inter IKEA, which supplies the Swedish furniture franchise's stores, suffered a 26% drop in annual operating profit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back to Snafu with Robin Zander. In this episode, I'm joined by Kevan Lee and Shannon Deep, co-founders of Bonfire – a creative studio reimagining what it means to build brands, tell stories, and live meaningful lives. We talk about how Bonfire began as a "Trojan horse" – a branding agency on the surface, but really a vehicle for deeper questions: What does fulfilling work look like? How do we find meaning beyond our careers? And how can business become a space for honesty, connection, and growth? Kevan and Shannon share how their partnership formed, what it takes to build trust as co-founders, and how vulnerability and self-awareness fuel their collaboration. We explore their path from tech and theater to building Bonfire, hosting creative retreats, and helping founders tell more authentic stories. We also dive into how AI is changing storytelling, the myth of "broetry" on LinkedIn, and why transparency is the future of marketing. If you're curious about what's next for creativity, leadership, and meaningful work, this episode is for you. And for more conversations like this, stay tuned for Responsive Conference 2026, where we'll be continuing the dialogue on human connection, business, and the evolving role of AI. Start (0:00) How Bonfire Started (14:25) Robin notes how transparent and intentional they've been building their business and community Says Bonfire feels like a 21st-century agency – creative, human, and not traditional Invites them to describe what they're building and their vision for it Kevan's response: Admits he feels imposter syndrome around being called an "entrepreneur" Laughs that it's technically true but still feels strange Describes Bonfire as partly a traditional branding agency They work with early-stage startups Help with brand strategy, positioning, messaging, and differentiation. But says the heart of their work is much deeper "We create spaces for people to explore what a fulfilling life looks like – one that includes work, but isn't defined by it." Their own careers inspired this – jobs that paid well but felt empty, or jobs that felt good but didn't pay the bills Bonfire became their way to build something more meaningful A space to have these conversations themselves And to invite others into it This includes community, retreats, and nontraditional formats Jokes that the agency side is a Trojan horse – a vehicle to fund the work they truly care about Shannon adds: They're agnostic about what Bonfire "does" Could be a branding agency, publishing house, even an ice cream shop "Money is just gas in the engine." The larger goal is creating spaces for people to explore their relationship to work Especially for those in transition, searching for meaning, or redefining success Robin reflects on their unusual path Notes most marketers who start agencies chase awards and fame But Shannon and Kevan built Bonfire around what they wished existed Recalls their past experiences Kevan's path from running a publication (later sold to Vox) to Buffer and then Oyster Shannon's shared time with him at Oyster Mentions their recent milestone – Bonfire's first live retreat in France 13 participants, including them Held in a rented castle For a two-year-old business, he calls it ambitious and impressive Asks: "How did it go? What did people get out of it?" Shannon on the retreat Laughs that they're still processing what it was They had a vibe in mind – but not a fixed structure One participant described it as "a wellness retreat for marketers" Not wrong – but also not quite right Attendees came from tech and non-tech backgrounds The focus: exploring people's most meaningful relationship to work Who you are when you're not at your desk How to bring that awareness back to real life — beyond castles and catered meals People came at it from different angles Some felt misaligned with their work Others were looking for something new Everyone was at a crossroads in their career Kevan on the space they built The retreat encouraged radical honesty People shared things like: "I have this job because I crave approval." "I care about money as a status symbol." "I hate what I do, but I don't know what else I'd be good at." They didn't force vulnerability, but wanted to make it safe if people chose it They thought deeply about values – what needed to be true for that kind of trust Personally, Kevan says the experience shifted his identity From "marketer" to something else – maybe "producer," maybe "creator" The retreat made him realize how many paths are possible "Now I just want to do more of this." Robin notes there are "so many threads to pull on" Brings up family business and partnerships Shares his own experience growing up in his dad's small business Talks about lessons from Robin's Cafe and the challenges of partnerships Says he's fascinated by co-founder dynamics – both powerful and tricky Asks how Shannon and Kevan's working relationship works What it was like at Oyster Why they decided to start Bonfire together And how it's evolved after the retreat Kevan on their beginnings He hired Shannon at Oyster – she was Editorial Director, he was SVP of Marketing Worked together for about a year and a half Knew early on that something clicked Shared values Similar worldview Trusted each other When Oyster ended, partnering up felt natural – "Let's figure out what's next, together." Robin observes their groundedness Says they both seem stable and mature, which likely helps the partnership Jokes about his own chaos running Robin's Café – late nights, leftover wine, cold quinoa Asks Shannon directly: "Do you still follow Kevan's lead?" Shannon's laughs and agrees they're both very regulated people But adds that it comes from learned coping mechanisms Says they've both developed pro-social ways to handle stress People-pleasing Overachievement Perfectionism Intellectualizing feelings instead of expressing them "Those are coping mechanisms too," she notes, "but at least they keep us calm when we talk." Building Trust and Partnership (14:54–23:15) Shannon says both she and Kevan have done deep personal work. Therapy, reflection, and self-inquiry are part of their toolkit. That helps them handle a relationship that's both intimate and challenging. They know their own baggage. They try not to take the other person's reactions personally. It doesn't always work—but they trust they'll work through conflict. When they started Bonfire: They agreed the business world is unpredictable. So they made a pinky swear: Friends first, business second. The friendship is the real priority. When conflict comes up, they ask: "Is this really life or death—or are we just forgetting what matters?" Shannon goes back to the question and clarifies Says they lead in different ways. Each has their "zone of genius." They depend on each other's strengths. It's not leader and follower – it's mutual reliance. Shannon explains: Kevan's great at momentum: He moves things forward and ships projects fast. Shannon tends to be more perfectionist: Wants things to be fully formed before releasing. Kevan adds they talk often about "rally and rest." Kevan rallies, he thrives on pressure and urgency. Shannon rests, she values slowing down and reflection. Together, that creates a healthy rhythm. Robin notes lingering habits Wonders if any "hangovers" from their Oyster days remain. Kevan reflects At first, he hesitated to show weakness. Coming from a manager role, vulnerability felt risky. Shannon quickly saw through it. He realized openness was essential, not optional. Says their friendship and business both rely on honesty. Robin agrees and says he wouldn't discourage co-founders—it's just a big decision. Like choosing a spouse, it shapes your life for years. Notes he's never met with one of them without the other. "That says something," he adds. Their partnership clearly works—even if it takes twice the time. Rethinking Marketing (23:19) Kevan's light moment: Asks if Robin's comment about their teamwork was feedback for them. Robin's observation Notes how in sync Shannon and Kevan are. Emails one, gets a reply CC'd with the other. Says the tempo of Bonfire feels like their collaboration itself. Wonders what that rhythm feels like internally. Kevan's response Says it's partly intentional, partly habit. They genuinely enjoy working together. Adds they don't chase traditional agency milestones. No interest in Ad Age lists or Cannes awards. Their goal: have fun and make meaningful work. Robin pivots to the state of marketing (24:04) Mentions the shift from Madison Avenue's glory days to today's tech-driven world. Refers to Mad Men and the "growth at all costs" startup era. Notes how AI and tech are changing how people see their role in work and life. Kevan's background Came from startups, not agencies. Learned through doing, not an MBA. Immersed in books like Hypergrowth and Traction. Took Reforge courses—knows the mechanics of scaling. Before that, worked as a journalist. Gained curiosity and calm under pressure, but also urgency. Admits startup life taught him both good and bad habits. Robin notes Neither lives the Madison Avenue life. Kevan's in Boise. Shannon's in France. Shannon's background Started in theater – behind the scenes as a dramaturg and producer. Learned how to shape emotion and tell stories. Transitioned into brand strategy in New York. Worked at a top agency, Siegel+Gale. Helped global B2B and B2C clients define mission, values, and design. Competed with big names like Interbrand and Pentagram. Later moved in-house at tech startups. Saw how B2B marketing often tries to "act cool" like B2C. Learned to translate creative ideas into language that convinces CFOs. Says her role often meant selling authentic storytelling to risk-averse execs. Admits she joined marketing out of necessity. "I was 27, broke in New York, and needed a parking spot for my storytelling skills." Robin connects the dots Notes how Silicon Valley's "growth" culture mirrors old ad-world burnout. Growth at all costs. Not much room for creative autonomy. Adds most big agencies are now owned by holding companies. The original Madison Avenue independence is nearly gone. Robin's reflection Mentions how AI-generated content is changing video and storytelling. Grateful his clients still value human connection. Asks how Bonfire helps brands tell authentic stories now that the old model is fading. Kevan's take Says people now care less about "moments" and more about audiences. It's not about one viral hit—it's about building consistency. Brands need to stand for something, and keep showing up. People want that outcome, even if they don't want the hard work behind it. Shannon adds Notes rising skepticism among audiences. Most content people see isn't from who they follow, it's ads and algorithms. Consumers are subconsciously filtering out the noise. Says that's why human storytelling matters more than ever. People crave knowing a real person is behind the message. AI can mimic tone but not authenticity. Adds it's hard to convince some clients of that. Authentic work isn't fast or easily measured. It requires belief in the process and a value system to match. That's tough when your client's investors only want quick returns. Robin agrees "Look at people's incentives and I'll tell you who they are." Shannon continues Wonders where their responsibility ends. Should they convince people of their values? Or just do the work and let the right clients come? Kevan says they've found a sweet spot with current clients. Mostly bootstrapped founders. Work with them long-term instead of one-off projects. Says that's the recipe that fits Bonfire's values and actually works. The Quarter Analogy (35:36) Robin quotes BJ Fogg: "Don't try to persuade people of your worldview. Look for people who already want what you can teach, and just show them how." He compares arguing with people who don't align to "an acrobat arguing with gravity – gravity will win 100% of the time." The key: harness momentum instead of fighting resistance. Even a small, aligned audience is better than chasing everyone. Kevan shares Bonfire's failed experiment with outbound sales: They tried reaching out to recently funded AI companies. "It got us nowhere," he admits. That experience reminded him how much old startup habits – growth at all costs, scale fast – still shape thinking. "I thought success meant getting as big as possible, as fast as possible. That meant doing outbound, even if it felt inauthentic." But that mindset just added pressure. Realizing there were other ways to grow – slower, more intentional – was a relief. Now they've stopped outbound entirely. Focused instead on aligned clients who find them naturally. Robin connects it to a MrBeast quote. "If I'm not ashamed of the video I put out last week, I'm not growing fast enough." He says he doesn't love the "shame" part but relates to the evolution mindset – Looking back at work from six months ago and thinking, I'd do that differently now. Growth as a visible, measurable journey. Robin shifts to storytelling frameworks: Mentions Kevan and Shannon's analogies about storytelling and asks about "the quarter analogy." Kevan explains the "quarter" story: A professor holds up two quarters: "Sell me the one on the right." No one can – until someone says, "I'll dip it in Marilyn Monroe's purse." That coin now has emotional and cultural value. Marketing can be the same – alchemy that turns something ordinary into something meaningful. Robin builds on that: You can tell stories about a coin's history – "Lincoln touched it," etc. But Kevan's version is different: adding new meaning in the present. "How do you imbue something with value now that makes it matter later?" Shannon's take: It's about values and belonging. "Every story implicitly says: believe this." That belief also says: we don't believe that – defining who's in your tribe. Humans crave that – community, validation, connection. That belonging is intangible but real. "Try selling that to a CFO who just wants ROI. Impossible — but it's real." Kevan adds: Values are one piece – authenticity is another. Some brands already have a genuine story; others want to create one. "We get asked to dip AI companies into Marilyn Monroe's purse," he jokes. The real work is uncovering what's true or helping brands rediscover it. The challenge: telling that story consistently and believably. Robin mentions Shannon's storytelling framework of three parts – Purpose → Story frameworks → Touch points. Shannon breaks it down: Clients usually come in with half-baked "mission" or "vision" statements. She uses Ogilvy's "Big Ideal" model: Combine a cultural tension (what's happening in the world) with your brand's best self. Then fill in the blank: "We believe the world would be a better place if…" That single sentence surfaces a company's "why us" and "why now." It's dramaturgy, really — same question as in theater: "Why this play now?" "Why us?" Bonfire's own version (in progress): "We believe the world would be a better place if people and brands had more room to explore their creativity." Kevan adds: it's evolving, like them. Robin relates it back to his own story: After selling Robin's Café, he started Zander Media to tell human stories. He wanted to document real connections — "the barista-customer relationships, the neighborhood changing." That became his north star: storytelling as a tool for change and human connection. "I don't care about video," he says. "I care about storytelling, helping people become more of who they want to be." Kevan closes the loop: A good purpose statement is expansive. It can hold video, podcasts, even a publishing house. "Maybe tomorrow it's something else. That's the beauty — it allows room to grow." Against the Broetry (49:01) Kevan reflects on transparency and values at Bonfire He and Robin came from Buffer, a company known for radical transparency — posting salaries, growth numbers, everything. Says that while Bonfire isn't as extreme about it, the spirit is the same. "It just comes naturally to invite people in." Their openness isn't a tactic – it's aligned with their values and mission. They want to create space for people to explore – new ideas, new ways of working, more fulfilling lives. Sharing their journey publicly felt like the obvious, authentic thing to do. "It wasn't even a conversation – just who we are." Shannon jumps in with a critique of business culture online Says there's so much terrible advice about "how to build a business." Compliments Robin for cutting through the noise – being honest through Snafu and his newsletter. "You're trying to be real about what selling feels like and what it says about you." Calls out the "rise and grind" nonsense dominating LinkedIn: "Wake up at 4 a.m., protein shake at 4:10, three-hour workout…" Robin laughs – "I'll take the three-hour workout, but I'll pass on the protein shake." Shannon and Kevan call it "broetry" The overblown, performative business storytelling on social media. "I went on my honeymoon and here's what I learned about B2B sales." Their goal with building in public is the opposite: To admit mistakes. To share pivots and moments of doubt. To remind people that everyone is figuring it out. "But the system rewards the opposite – gatekeeping, pretending, keeping up the facade." Shannon says she has "no patience for it." She traces that belief back to a story from college Producer Paula Wagner once told her class: "Here's the secret: nobody knows anything." That line stuck with her. Gave her permission to question authority. To show up confidently even when others pretend to know more. After years of watching powerful men "fail upward," she realized: "The emperor has no clothes." So she might as well take up space too. Transparency, for her, is a form of connection and courage – "When people raise their eyes from their desks and actually meet each other, that's power." Robin thanks Shannon for the kind words about Snafu. Says their work naturally attracts people who want that kind of realness. Then pivots to a closing question: "If you had one piece of advice for founders – about storytelling or business building – what would it be?" Kevan's advice: "Look beyond what's around you." Inspiration doesn't have to come from your industry. Learn from other fields, other stories, other worlds. It builds curiosity, empathy, and creativity. Robin sums it up: "Get out of your silos." Shannon's advice: "Make the thing you actually want to see." Too many founders copy what's trendy or "smart." Ask instead: What would I genuinely love to consume? Remember your audience is human, like you. And remember, building a business is a privilege. You get to create a small world that reflects your values. You get to hire people, pay them, shape a culture. "That's so cool, and it should make you feel powerful." With that power comes responsibility. "Everyone says it's about making the most money. But what if the goal was to make the coolest world possible, for as many people as possible?" Where to find Kevan and Shannon (57:16) Points listeners to aroundthebonfire.com/experiences. That's where they host their retreats. Next one is April 2026. "We'd love to see you there." Companies/Organizations Bonfire Buffer Oyster Vox Zander Media Siegel+Gale Interbrand Pentagram Reforge Robin's Café Books / Frameworks / Theories Traction BJ Fogg's behavioral model Ogilvy's "Big Ideal" Purpose → Story Frameworks → Touch Point People Paula Wagner BJ Fogg MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson) David Ogilvy Newsletters Snafu Kevan's previous publication
Consumer sentiment — as in, how everyday people feel about the economy — fell to a low not seen since 2022, according to the University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers. The decline was consistent across demographics, except among the wealthiest Americans (as measured by volume of stock market holdings). In other words, economic mood just became another k-shaped indicator. Also in this episode: Colleges shutter satellite campuses to cut costs and small and midsize businesses shrink their headcounts.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.
Consumer sentiment — as in, how everyday people feel about the economy — fell to a low not seen since 2022, according to the University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers. The decline was consistent across demographics, except among the wealthiest Americans (as measured by volume of stock market holdings). In other words, economic mood just became another k-shaped indicator. Also in this episode: Colleges shutter satellite campuses to cut costs and small and midsize businesses shrink their headcounts.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.
Plus: Nexperia microchips start leaving China again after being held hostage in a trade war. And IKEA profit plunges 32%. Zoe Kuhlkin hosts. Sign up for WSJ's free What's News newsletter. An artificial-intelligence tool assisted in the making of this episode by creating summaries that were based on Wall Street Journal reporting and reviewed and adapted by an editor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Learn how Tighthead is bringing cask-ale pub culture to Illinois and how they make IPAs that changed Cody's entire perspective on beer. Plus: hear a traditional rugby song!Tighthead Brewing Company Owner/Brewer Bruce Dir and Brewmaster Billy Oaks share the fascinating story behind their Mundelein, Illinois brewery, from rugby roots and homebrewing origins to crafting balanced, award-winning beers. They discuss everything from scaling up recipes and mastering pub culture to developing new hemp-infused beverages.They share their humble beginnings from the Lake County homebrew club, learning the ropes of judging beer competitions, and why Irish Red Ales deserve more love. Plus: the messy first batch of Scarlet Fire Irish Red, opening-day chaos, and the now-legendary story of Metra trains waiting so commuters could grab a growler.After the break, they dive into Boxcar Porter and the fine line between porter and stout, explore balance in recipe design, and detail how their collaboration with Chicago Bears legend Patrick Mannelly led to the Long Snapper IPA, a “crushable” West Coast style brewed with Cascade and Centennial hops. They also taste Irie IPA, a 7.8% “hop candy” of 100+ IBUs that challenges IPA skeptics, and introduce listeners to pub culture and cask conditioning, explaining how natural carbonation creates creamy texture and warmth in a hand-pulled pint. Plus: in a Crafty Brewers first, hear Bruce sing the rugby drinking song “Biddy McGraw”!0:00 Tighthead Brewing interview intro2:29 What is a tighthead? Rugby 1014:48 The first beer Tighthead brewed6:38 From homebrew club to brewing buddies9:20 What's it like to judge a beer competition?12:42 Why aren't Irish Red Ales more popular?15:26 What were the challenges of scaling up brewing operations?16:40 The story of opening day and how things started24:36 Metra trains would wait for customers to buy beer25:39 Boxcar Porter and what sets a porter apart from a stout29:05 What separates a good beer from a great beer31:59 Longsnapper IPA beer collab with former Chicago Bears player Patrick Mannelly38:45 Achieving “hop candy” flavor with Irie IPA, 7.8% ABV and 100+ IBUs44:16 What is “pub culture” and what is a beer engine?45:57 How cask conditioning changes the way a beer tastes49:28 Bruce sings Biddy McGraw, a rugby drinking song (Irish folk song)51:54 What makes a good beer festival for brewers? Consumers?58:40 Might As Well sparkling hemp beverage for today's consumer1:01:53 How a sparkling hemp beverage is made1:04:30 Final four questions1:13:38 Final toastAbout Tighthead Brewing Company: Tighthead Brewing Company is a craft brewery with pub culture, located in the same parking lot as the Metra station in the Chicago suburb of Mundelein, Illinois. Learn more on their website at https://www.tightheadbrewing.com/ —You can learn more about Crafty Brewers and get in touch with us on our official website, https://craftybrewerspod.com Crafty Brewers is a production of Quantum Podcasts, LLC. Is your brewery or business looking to capture a loyal audience to drive business results with the power of podcasting? Then visit https://quantum-podcasts.com/ to learn more.Our executive producer and editor is award-winning podcaster Cody Gough. He insists that we tell you that in this episode, you'll learn about: Scarlet Fire Irish Red Ale, Boxcar Porter, Irie IPA, Longsnapper IPA, hop candy IPA, West Coast IPA, Cascade hops, Centennial hops, porter vs stout, cask conditioning, beer engine, pub culture, craft beer Illinois, Mundelein brewery, homebrewing, Lake County homebrew club, beer competitions, BJCP judging, Irish Red Ale, American ale yeast, caramel malt, roast barley, craft beer collaboration, rugby beer culture, Biddy McGraw song, Mundelein Craft Beer Festival, Might As Well hemp beverage, hemp seltzer, THC beverage, Perfectly Dosed emulsion, craft beverage innovation, hop balance, West Coast style, and cryo hops.
Today's podcast features the second part of a recent webinar produced on September 24, 2025, titled: "A New Era for Banking: What President Trump's Debanking Executive Order and Related State Laws Mean for Financial Institutions, Government, and Banking Customers." In Part 2, we discuss the following topics: 1. What are the areas of uncertainty with respect to the Executive Order, including: · Defining an "unlawful business" or "religion and why those definitions are important. · What regulator or regulators will issue regulations or other guidance? 2. What is the role of the Small Business Administration ("SBA") 3. Intersection with AML/BSA 4. Intersection with state debanking statutes and experience of the states 5. Pending Federal legislation 6. What should financial institutions be doing now to prepare for regulator review? 7. Is the Executive Order good or bad policy? 8. Is there a proven need for the Executive Order? Is there any empirical evidence of need based on complaints submitted to states with debanking statutes, SBA or other federal banking prudential regulators or is it all anecdotal? Our presenters, who hold diverse views on the wisdom of the Executive Order, are: · Jason Mikula Founder and Publisher, Fintech Business Weekly Jason Mikula is an independent fintech and banking advisor, consultant, and investor. He also publishes Fintech Business Weekly, a newsletter analyzing trends in banking and fintech. He opposes the Executive Order. · Brian Knight Senior Counsel, Corporate Engagement, Alliance Defending Freedom Brian Knight serves as Senior Counsel on the Corporate Engagement Team at Alliance Defending Freedom. His work focuses on issues of financial access, debanking, and preventing the politicization of financial services. He opposes the Executive Order. · Todd Phillips Assistant Professor of Law, J. Mack Robinson College of Business, Georgia State University Todd Phillips is an assistant professor of law at Georgia State University. His areas of expertise include bank capital and prudential regulation, deposit insurance, and the laws governing federal regulators. He opposes the Executive Order. · Will Hild Executive Director, Consumers' Research Will Hild is the Executive Director of Consumers' Research, the nation's oldest consumer protection organization. He has led efforts to combat ESG and what he considers "woke capitalism," including launching the Consumers First campaign. He supports the Executive Order. · Graham Steele Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions, U.S. Department of the Treasury Graham Steele serves as the Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions at the U.S. Department of the Treasury. He is an expert on financial regulation and financial institutions, with over a decade of experience working at the highest levels of law and policy in Washington, D.C. He opposes the Executive Order. Alan Kaplinsky, the founder and first practice group leader and now Senior Counsel of the Consumer Financial Services Group at our firm, moderated the webinar. We released Part 1of this webinar on October 30, 2025
This episode is audio from Nancy Mahon's keynote address to the Engelberg Center's Conspicuous Consumers Symposium. It was recorded on October 16 , 2025.
The Outer Worlds 2, Ninja Gaiden 4 and more – Geekoholics Anonymous Video Game Podcast 509 On this weeks episode we blab about the following Games and topics: Whatcha Been Playing? Outer Worlds 2 15:56 Fortnite Simpsons 23:45 Ninja Gaiden 4 30:52 Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles 39:40 News: Cross Platform / PC / Misc. Olympics ends Esports plans with Saudi Arabia after just one year 47:28 Consumers spend twice as much on video game remakes than remasters, according to research 53:22 Original Saints Row designer says unloved 2022 reboot "missed the mark", but the big news is Embracer wants him to pitch a revival 58:58 Steam Deck finally has a low-power, display-off download mode 1:03:40 Vampire Survivors crossing over with Warhammer 1:06:00 Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons springs back to life next year with Switch 2 Edition, major free content update, and Lego collaboration 1:09:01 Switch poised to overtake DS and become Nintendo's best-selling console - and it could take the all-time crown from PS2 PlayStation Cloud Streaming officially arrives on PlayStation Portal today, with new support for digital PS5 Games in your library 1:18:20 PSA's: Epic Games Store Freebies: Felix the Reaper, Idle Champions of the Forgotten Realms D&D freebie Free 4 All Harry Potter rewatch 1:47:52 Windows Full Screen Experience 1:24:39 Dracula Untold 1:43:07 Help support the show: - Subscribe to our Twitch channel http://twitch.tv/geekoholics - Use our Epic Creator Code: GEEKOHOLICS when purchasing items in Fortnite or buying games on the Epic Games Store - Please review the show (bit.ly/geekoholics) on Apple Music, Apple Podcasts and to share with your friends. Reviews help us reach more listeners, and the feedback helps us to produce a better show. Join our Discord server: CLICK HERE Don't forget to follow our Social Media Feeds to keep up to date on our adventures: Youtube Twitter Instagram Facebook Thanks for listening and have a great weekend! You can reach me on Twitter @RicF
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Robert Gray, Associate Professor of University Pedagogy at the University of Bergen in Norway, to explore a fundamental question about the purpose of higher education: should learning be an act of consumption or production? Maybe the best learning experiences don't simply ask students to absorb information—they invite students to actively re-write and co-create knowledge with the teacher.Dr. Gray's research draws on Roland Barthes' concepts of "readerly" and "writerly" texts, arguing that valuable learning happens when students are encouraged to "re-write" their classroom materials and become active producers of meaning. We discuss how students bring diverse perspectives and contexts to shared texts and lectures, creating something new and innovative from the materials we provide. As educators, we are challenged to foster an active, collaborative campus culture where learning becomes genuinely additive and co-creative.Learn more about Dr. Gray's research in his article: “Learning Is [Like] an Act of Writing: The Writerly Turn in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education”Other materials referenced in this episode include:Barthes, R. (1975). The pleasure of the text (R. Miller, Trans.). Hill and Wang. (Original work published 1973).
Learn how shifting from selling to understanding is the real edge of influence, as told by Dave McCaughan.
Daniel Francis, NYU School of LawDoha Mekki, UC Berkeley LawEric Posner, University of Chicago Law SchoolScott Hemphill, Engelberg Center on Innovation Law & Policy, NYU School of Law (moderator)
Kevin Moss, editor of the Consumers' Checkbook Guide to PSHBP Plans, joins Bob to discuss strategies to choosing a health insurance plan during the Postal Service Health Benefits Program Open Season (November 10 - December 8). Kevin and Bob talk about how to maximize health coverage, premium increases and benefit changes. In addition, they explore how Medicare participants may exercise their health plan options. Also, Bob talks about 2026 Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) cost-of-living-adjustments.
Krystal and Saagar discuss consumers cut staple grocery spending, Elon tell Rogan AI will take all jobs, Trump denies knowing Binance CEO he pardoned. Logan Phillips: https://www.racetothewh.com/ To become a Breaking Points Premium Member and watch/listen to the show AD FREE, uncut and 1 hour early visit: www.breakingpoints.comMerch Store: https://shop.breakingpoints.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel: youtube.com/@mreapodcastWe're sitting down with researcher and industry truth-teller, Mike DelPrete, to cut through the noise on tech, AI, and what clients really want from us. Mike's work has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times, and The Economist. He teaches, studies the business, and backs every take with data.We dig into the psychology behind home sales and why our industry is harder to “disrupt” than startups think. Mike shares fresh findings from secret-shopper research: Half of online and in-person leads never get a follow-up. We connect that to the three client traits that win listings and loyalty: 1. Be patient, 2. Be knowledgeable, and 3. Be transparent.We also explore AI in two simple buckets. Bucket one includes an operating-expense buster that helps us work faster and cleaner. Bucket two shows a shift in how people search. Then we get tactical by explaining how reviews are trust signals, why a tight niche can help you, and when a cadence of communication that matches each client's expectations builds value.If you're ready to trade opinions for proof, this episode gives you a clear playbook to act on today.Resources:Mike DelPrete's research hub: MikeDP.comListen: Context podcast by Mike DelPreteRead $100M Offers by Alex HormoziOrder the Millionaire Real Estate Agent Playbook | Volume 3Connect with Jason:LinkedinProduced by NOVAThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.WARNING! You must comply with the TCPA and any other federal, state or local laws, including for B2B calls and texts. Never call or text a number on any Do Not Call list, and do not use an autodialer or artificial voice or prerecorded messages without proper consent. Contact your attorney to ensure your compliance.
Tariffs as a Consumer Tax and the Inflationary Impact Guest: Professor John Cochrane Professor John Cochrane explains that tariffs effectively function as a tax on American consumers and create a temporary bump in inflation throughout the economy. Retailers are currently absorbing substantial cost increases but will likely pass these expenses on to consumers after the Christmas holiday season. Cochrane notes the Federal Reserve faces a challenging policy dilemma: tariffs increase prices, yet there is mounting political pressure to lower interest rates. He characterizes tariffs as a potentially costly geopolitical weapon with uncertain strategic benefits. 1917
Tariffs as a Consumer Tax and the Inflationary Impact Guest: Professor John Cochrane Professor John Cochrane explains that tariffs effectively function as a tax on American consumers and create a temporary bump in inflation throughout the economy. Retailers are currently absorbing substantial cost increases but will likely pass these expenses on to consumers after the Christmas holiday season. Cochrane notes the Federal Reserve faces a challenging policy dilemma: tariffs increase prices, yet there is mounting political pressure to lower interest rates. He characterizes tariffs as a potentially costly geopolitical weapon with uncertain strategic benefits.