Podcasts about consumers

Late last year, the federal government announced the Rural Health Transformation Program, a $50 billion initiative looking to improve the health of rural residents and to offset more than $900 billion in reduced Medicaid spending over 10 years from Republicans' sweeping 2025 tax and spending law. This morning, we hear how Louisiana is focusing some of that cash toward tech firms. Also on the show: spending on electronics and Kevin Warsh's inaugural Jackson Hole address.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace Morning Report 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.Stories included in this episode:Consumers are finding room for electronics in their budgetsStates bet big on rural health startups, with a Silicon Valley twist

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Nidhi Singhvi. Co-founder and CEO of OnVault, an AI-powered financial platform designed to help consumers value, track, and sell their gold jewelry. The conversation explores how millions of Americans may be sitting on untapped wealth in the form of jewelry and other precious metal assets without realizing their true value. Singvi discusses the mission behind OnVault: transforming personal jewelry from a forgotten possession into a transparent, trackable financial asset. By combining artificial intelligence, mobile technology, and financial education, OnVault aims to empower consumers to understand, manage, and monetize the value of their jewelry. Purpose of the Interview The interview was designed to: Introduce OnVault and explain how AI is changing jewelry valuation. Educate consumers about the hidden value of gold jewelry and tangible assets. Promote financial literacy through asset awareness. Explain how technology can provide transparency in jewelry sales and valuation. Challenge the negative perceptions associated with pawn shops and traditional jewelry resale. Demonstrate how dormant assets can become tools for financial flexibility and wealth-building. Key Takeaways 1. Many Americans Are Sitting on Hidden Wealth Nidhi Singvi estimates that hundreds of billions of dollars in gold jewelry are sitting unused in homes across America. Most people view jewelry as sentimental possessions rather than financial assets. 2. Jewelry Should Be Treated Like Other Assets Consumers regularly track the value of stocks, homes, cars, and collectibles. Singvi argues that jewelry should be viewed similarly, especially gold jewelry whose value fluctuates with market prices. 3. AI Makes Valuation Easier and More Accessible OnVault allows users to upload photos of their jewelry and receive an AI-generated valuation. The platform analyzes factors such as: Gold content Weight Construction type Age and style of the piece Current gold market prices This eliminates the need for expensive appraisals or visits to jewelry stores. 4. Transparency Is the Company's Core Differentiator Singvi repeatedly emphasizes transparency as a key advantage over traditional resale channels. Customers receive: Detailed valuation reports Video documentation of inspections Explanations of how offers are calculated Breakdowns of gold, gemstone, and diamond values 5. The Traditional Pawn Shop Experience Needs Reinvention A major theme of the discussion is the emotional discomfort people often associate with pawn shops. Singvi believes technology can remove the stigma, uncertainty, and lack of transparency that consumers frequently experience. 6. Financial Literacy Should Include Tangible Assets The interview highlights that financial education often focuses on: Budgeting Saving Investing Credit Singvi believes consumers should also understand the value of physical assets they already own. 7. Gold Remains an Important Asset Class Singvi explains that gold has experienced significant appreciation and has outperformed many traditional investment indexes over extended periods. She encourages consumers to understand how gold pricing affects jewelry values. 8. OnVault's Long-Term Vision Extends Beyond Jewelry Sales The company's vision includes helping consumers: Track jewelry values Sell jewelry Access loans using jewelry-backed portfolios Obtain insurance coverage Manage jewelry as part of a broader financial plan 9. AI Vision Technology Created the Opportunity Advances in AI image recognition now allow OnVault to analyze a simple photograph and estimate a jewelry item's dimensions and value with a high level of confidence. 10. Convenience Drives Adoption Users can complete the valuation process from home using only a smartphone and a web browser, removing many of the barriers traditionally associated with jewelry appraisal and resale. Notable Quotes On OnVault's Mission "We want to start with the education of gold and jewelry as an asset." On Consumer Empowerment "We want people to understand their jewelry before they even think of selling it." On Transparency "We send you the entire video of the process." On Understanding Value "That entire evaluation is just for the customer to know a little bit more before selling their jewelry." On Financial Awareness "Jewelry is actually one of the most real assets you can own." On Consumer Education "First is understand it, then you can sell wherever you want to sell." On Hidden Wealth "There is a lot of gold in the U.S. We think of it as an asset class." On the Company's Mission "We want there to be respect in this process of understanding the value and then selling jewelry." On Future Services "We can help you sell your jewelry. We can give you loans on top of it. We can help you insure it." On AI's Role "We could actually take a photo of a ring and understand its dimensions." On Accessibility "We don't want you to leave home. We want you to do that piece at home so that everything else becomes easier." On Simplifying Wealth Discovery "The process takes 60 seconds." On Long-Term Impact "We are changing people's perception on jewelry." Bottom Line The interview positions OnVault as a modern financial technology platform that seeks to unlock the hidden value of personal jewelry through AI, transparency, and financial education. Nidhi Singvi's central message is that many consumers already own valuable assets but lack the tools to understand and leverage them. By making valuation simple, transparent, and accessible, OnVault aims to transform jewelry from a forgotten possession into a meaningful component of personal wealth and financial planning. #BEST #SHMS #STRAW Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success. Business Podcast Entrepreneurship Small Business Business Growth Financial Literacy Wealth Building Black Entrepreneurs Minority Business Leadership Executive Leadership Business Funding Marketing Strategies Personal Development Startup Advice Sales Training CEO Interviews Founder Stories Professional Development Economic Empowerment Business Success Networking Brand Building Innovation How to start a business Small business funding Entrepreneur success stories Business leadership podcast Wealth building strategies Black entrepreneur podcast Minority business development Marketing for small businesses Business growth strategies Startup funding opportunities Executive leadership training Financial literacy education Success mindset podcastSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Nidhi Singhvi. Co-founder and CEO of OnVault, an AI-powered financial platform designed to help consumers value, track, and sell their gold jewelry. The conversation explores how millions of Americans may be sitting on untapped wealth in the form of jewelry and other precious metal assets without realizing their true value. Singvi discusses the mission behind OnVault: transforming personal jewelry from a forgotten possession into a transparent, trackable financial asset. By combining artificial intelligence, mobile technology, and financial education, OnVault aims to empower consumers to understand, manage, and monetize the value of their jewelry. Purpose of the Interview The interview was designed to: Introduce OnVault and explain how AI is changing jewelry valuation. Educate consumers about the hidden value of gold jewelry and tangible assets. Promote financial literacy through asset awareness. Explain how technology can provide transparency in jewelry sales and valuation. Challenge the negative perceptions associated with pawn shops and traditional jewelry resale. Demonstrate how dormant assets can become tools for financial flexibility and wealth-building. Key Takeaways 1. Many Americans Are Sitting on Hidden Wealth Nidhi Singvi estimates that hundreds of billions of dollars in gold jewelry are sitting unused in homes across America. Most people view jewelry as sentimental possessions rather than financial assets. 2. Jewelry Should Be Treated Like Other Assets Consumers regularly track the value of stocks, homes, cars, and collectibles. Singvi argues that jewelry should be viewed similarly, especially gold jewelry whose value fluctuates with market prices. 3. AI Makes Valuation Easier and More Accessible OnVault allows users to upload photos of their jewelry and receive an AI-generated valuation. The platform analyzes factors such as: Gold content Weight Construction type Age and style of the piece Current gold market prices This eliminates the need for expensive appraisals or visits to jewelry stores. 4. Transparency Is the Company's Core Differentiator Singvi repeatedly emphasizes transparency as a key advantage over traditional resale channels. Customers receive: Detailed valuation reports Video documentation of inspections Explanations of how offers are calculated Breakdowns of gold, gemstone, and diamond values 5. The Traditional Pawn Shop Experience Needs Reinvention A major theme of the discussion is the emotional discomfort people often associate with pawn shops. Singvi believes technology can remove the stigma, uncertainty, and lack of transparency that consumers frequently experience. 6. Financial Literacy Should Include Tangible Assets The interview highlights that financial education often focuses on: Budgeting Saving Investing Credit Singvi believes consumers should also understand the value of physical assets they already own. 7. Gold Remains an Important Asset Class Singvi explains that gold has experienced significant appreciation and has outperformed many traditional investment indexes over extended periods. She encourages consumers to understand how gold pricing affects jewelry values. 8. OnVault's Long-Term Vision Extends Beyond Jewelry Sales The company's vision includes helping consumers: Track jewelry values Sell jewelry Access loans using jewelry-backed portfolios Obtain insurance coverage Manage jewelry as part of a broader financial plan 9. AI Vision Technology Created the Opportunity Advances in AI image recognition now allow OnVault to analyze a simple photograph and estimate a jewelry item's dimensions and value with a high level of confidence. 10. Convenience Drives Adoption Users can complete the valuation process from home using only a smartphone and a web browser, removing many of the barriers traditionally associated with jewelry appraisal and resale. Notable Quotes On OnVault's Mission "We want to start with the education of gold and jewelry as an asset." On Consumer Empowerment "We want people to understand their jewelry before they even think of selling it." On Transparency "We send you the entire video of the process." On Understanding Value "That entire evaluation is just for the customer to know a little bit more before selling their jewelry." On Financial Awareness "Jewelry is actually one of the most real assets you can own." On Consumer Education "First is understand it, then you can sell wherever you want to sell." On Hidden Wealth "There is a lot of gold in the U.S. We think of it as an asset class." On the Company's Mission "We want there to be respect in this process of understanding the value and then selling jewelry." On Future Services "We can help you sell your jewelry. We can give you loans on top of it. We can help you insure it." On AI's Role "We could actually take a photo of a ring and understand its dimensions." On Accessibility "We don't want you to leave home. We want you to do that piece at home so that everything else becomes easier." On Simplifying Wealth Discovery "The process takes 60 seconds." On Long-Term Impact "We are changing people's perception on jewelry." Bottom Line The interview positions OnVault as a modern financial technology platform that seeks to unlock the hidden value of personal jewelry through AI, transparency, and financial education. Nidhi Singvi's central message is that many consumers already own valuable assets but lack the tools to understand and leverage them. By making valuation simple, transparent, and accessible, OnVault aims to transform jewelry from a forgotten possession into a meaningful component of personal wealth and financial planning. #BEST #SHMS #STRAW Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success. Business Podcast Entrepreneurship Small Business Business Growth Financial Literacy Wealth Building Black Entrepreneurs Minority Business Leadership Executive Leadership Business Funding Marketing Strategies Personal Development Startup Advice Sales Training CEO Interviews Founder Stories Professional Development Economic Empowerment Business Success Networking Brand Building Innovation How to start a business Small business funding Entrepreneur success stories Business leadership podcast Wealth building strategies Black entrepreneur podcast Minority business development Marketing for small businesses Business growth strategies Startup funding opportunities Executive leadership training Financial literacy education Success mindset podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inflation in July remained stubbornly elevated, the personal consumption expenditures price index showed; it was up 3.7% overall. Consumers have faced massive increases in the costs of energy, insurance, electronics, and more over recent months. What does this "stubborn" and "sticky" inflation mean for the central bank as its leaders meet this week in Jackson Hole, Wyoming? Also on the program: lessons from Chicago on trying to raise money when tax revenue crashes.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace Morning Report 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.

Inflation in July remained stubbornly elevated, the personal consumption expenditures price index showed; it was up 3.7% overall. Consumers have faced massive increases in the costs of energy, insurance, electronics, and more over recent months. What does this "stubborn" and "sticky" inflation mean for the central bank as its leaders meet this week in Jackson Hole, Wyoming? Also on the program: lessons from Chicago on trying to raise money when tax revenue crashes.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace Morning Report 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.

Will Hild, Executive Director of Consumers' Research, joined us on the Guy Benson Show today with guest host Pete Mundo to discuss data centers and AI infrastructures! Hild argued that the issue with big tech's development of data centers is its sense of entitlement and condescension toward middle America. He then elaborated with Mundo on what big tech hasn't done a good job in, how rural communities benefit from tax breaks and incentives, the overblown energy and water concerns, and more. Listen to the full interview with Hild and Mundo below! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Nidhi Singhvi. Co-founder and CEO of OnVault, an AI-powered financial platform designed to help consumers value, track, and sell their gold jewelry. The conversation explores how millions of Americans may be sitting on untapped wealth in the form of jewelry and other precious metal assets without realizing their true value. Singvi discusses the mission behind OnVault: transforming personal jewelry from a forgotten possession into a transparent, trackable financial asset. By combining artificial intelligence, mobile technology, and financial education, OnVault aims to empower consumers to understand, manage, and monetize the value of their jewelry. Purpose of the Interview The interview was designed to: Introduce OnVault and explain how AI is changing jewelry valuation. Educate consumers about the hidden value of gold jewelry and tangible assets. Promote financial literacy through asset awareness. Explain how technology can provide transparency in jewelry sales and valuation. Challenge the negative perceptions associated with pawn shops and traditional jewelry resale. Demonstrate how dormant assets can become tools for financial flexibility and wealth-building. Key Takeaways 1. Many Americans Are Sitting on Hidden Wealth Nidhi Singvi estimates that hundreds of billions of dollars in gold jewelry are sitting unused in homes across America. Most people view jewelry as sentimental possessions rather than financial assets. 2. Jewelry Should Be Treated Like Other Assets Consumers regularly track the value of stocks, homes, cars, and collectibles. Singvi argues that jewelry should be viewed similarly, especially gold jewelry whose value fluctuates with market prices. 3. AI Makes Valuation Easier and More Accessible OnVault allows users to upload photos of their jewelry and receive an AI-generated valuation. The platform analyzes factors such as: Gold content Weight Construction type Age and style of the piece Current gold market prices This eliminates the need for expensive appraisals or visits to jewelry stores. 4. Transparency Is the Company's Core Differentiator Singvi repeatedly emphasizes transparency as a key advantage over traditional resale channels. Customers receive: Detailed valuation reports Video documentation of inspections Explanations of how offers are calculated Breakdowns of gold, gemstone, and diamond values 5. The Traditional Pawn Shop Experience Needs Reinvention A major theme of the discussion is the emotional discomfort people often associate with pawn shops. Singvi believes technology can remove the stigma, uncertainty, and lack of transparency that consumers frequently experience. 6. Financial Literacy Should Include Tangible Assets The interview highlights that financial education often focuses on: Budgeting Saving Investing Credit Singvi believes consumers should also understand the value of physical assets they already own. 7. Gold Remains an Important Asset Class Singvi explains that gold has experienced significant appreciation and has outperformed many traditional investment indexes over extended periods. She encourages consumers to understand how gold pricing affects jewelry values. 8. OnVault's Long-Term Vision Extends Beyond Jewelry Sales The company's vision includes helping consumers: Track jewelry values Sell jewelry Access loans using jewelry-backed portfolios Obtain insurance coverage Manage jewelry as part of a broader financial plan 9. AI Vision Technology Created the Opportunity Advances in AI image recognition now allow OnVault to analyze a simple photograph and estimate a jewelry item's dimensions and value with a high level of confidence. 10. Convenience Drives Adoption Users can complete the valuation process from home using only a smartphone and a web browser, removing many of the barriers traditionally associated with jewelry appraisal and resale. Notable Quotes On OnVault's Mission "We want to start with the education of gold and jewelry as an asset." On Consumer Empowerment "We want people to understand their jewelry before they even think of selling it." On Transparency "We send you the entire video of the process." On Understanding Value "That entire evaluation is just for the customer to know a little bit more before selling their jewelry." On Financial Awareness "Jewelry is actually one of the most real assets you can own." On Consumer Education "First is understand it, then you can sell wherever you want to sell." On Hidden Wealth "There is a lot of gold in the U.S. We think of it as an asset class." On the Company's Mission "We want there to be respect in this process of understanding the value and then selling jewelry." On Future Services "We can help you sell your jewelry. We can give you loans on top of it. We can help you insure it." On AI's Role "We could actually take a photo of a ring and understand its dimensions." On Accessibility "We don't want you to leave home. We want you to do that piece at home so that everything else becomes easier." On Simplifying Wealth Discovery "The process takes 60 seconds." On Long-Term Impact "We are changing people's perception on jewelry." Bottom Line The interview positions OnVault as a modern financial technology platform that seeks to unlock the hidden value of personal jewelry through AI, transparency, and financial education. Nidhi Singvi's central message is that many consumers already own valuable assets but lack the tools to understand and leverage them. By making valuation simple, transparent, and accessible, OnVault aims to transform jewelry from a forgotten possession into a meaningful component of personal wealth and financial planning. #BEST #SHMS #STRAW Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success. Business Podcast Entrepreneurship Small Business Business Growth Financial Literacy Wealth Building Black Entrepreneurs Minority Business Leadership Executive Leadership Business Funding Marketing Strategies Personal Development Startup Advice Sales Training CEO Interviews Founder Stories Professional Development Economic Empowerment Business Success Networking Brand Building Innovation How to start a business Small business funding Entrepreneur success stories Business leadership podcast Wealth building strategies Black entrepreneur podcast Minority business development Marketing for small businesses Business growth strategies Startup funding opportunities Executive leadership training Financial literacy education Success mindset podcastSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Another month, another PCE report that put annual core inflation meaningfully above the Fed's 2% target. The central bank has been fighting high inflation for more than five years now. At a certain point, you might start to wonder, does the Fed even have the power to fix it? Also in this episode: Consumer confidence falls, transportation durable goods orders tick up, and Arizona's Great Recession-era bid to save the state budget offers insight into how AI might change our tax structure.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.Read the stories in today's episode:Inflation is stuck above 2%. Can the Fed really do anything about it?Consumers are pessimistic about the next six monthsHow Arizona's "Capitol-ism" points to a potential tax fix for the AI ageWhat's driving an increase in orders for transportation equipment?Running a historic motel off Route 66 is no easy pursuitThe Gila River Indian Community "walks the walk" on water conservation

Another month, another PCE report that put annual core inflation meaningfully above the Fed's 2% target. The central bank has been fighting high inflation for more than five years now. At a certain point, you might start to wonder, does the Fed even have the power to fix it? Also in this episode: Consumer confidence falls, transportation durable goods orders tick up, and Arizona's Great Recession-era bid to save the state budget offers insight into how AI might change our tax structure.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.Read the stories in today's episode:Inflation is stuck above 2%. Can the Fed really do anything about it?Consumers are pessimistic about the next six monthsHow Arizona's "Capitol-ism" points to a potential tax fix for the AI ageWhat's driving an increase in orders for transportation equipment?Running a historic motel off Route 66 is no easy pursuitThe Gila River Indian Community "walks the walk" on water conservation

An earthquake sets off a massive wall of water along the Nepal-China border. Meta has agreed to settle a landmark case over claims of social media harms to children. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates is sounding the alarm about artificial intelligence in an interview with CNN. Consumers were a little more selective with their spending in July – we'll explain why. And a new study suggests BMI readings can be misleading.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why has JD Vance been on a crusade against the economics profession recently? Phil Magness joins the podcast to discuss why JD Vance thinks the concept of GDP is fake, why he's skeptical that consumers having a lot of affordable goods is a good thing, and why the right is turning to 'post-liberal' economics. Further reading:  https://www.theargumentmag.com/p/hillbilly-economics Support the podcast and get involved with your local chapter by becoming a member of the Center for New Liberalism. Join at https://cnliberalism.org/become-a-member Got questions? Send us a note at mailbag@cnliberalism.org. Follow us at: https://twitter.com/CNLiberalism https://cnliberalism.org/ https://www.instagram.com/cnliberalism/

After President Trump announced new tariffs on some Canadian goods, Canada's prime minister, Mark Carney, said his country would match them "dollar for dollar." We look at what's behind the escalation, and the economic & political impacts it will have on the U.S. economy.This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, White House correspondent Emily Feng, and chief economics correspondent Scott Horsley.This podcast was produced and edited by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show's perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Zach Shefska. Co-founder of CarEdge, a consumer-focused automotive platform he launched with his father in 2019. CarEdge was created to bring greater transparency, fairness, and efficiency to the car-buying experience through pricing data, negotiation tools, consumer education, and AI-powered resources. The conversation explores the current automotive market, rising vehicle prices, strategies for buying and selling cars, the role of AI in negotiations, and practical advice for consumers seeking to avoid costly mistakes. Purpose of the Interview 1. Educate Consumers About Car Buying Zach's primary objective was to help consumers become smarter car buyers by understanding vehicle pricing, trade-ins, inspections, warranties, financing, and negotiation tactics. 2. Promote Transparency in the Automotive Industry CarEdge was founded to level the playing field between dealerships and consumers by providing tools and information that reduce confusion and increase buyer confidence. 3. Showcase the Power of AI and Technology Zach discussed how AI is being used to assist consumers with vehicle negotiations and purchasing decisions, making the process more accessible and less intimidating. 4. Share an Entrepreneurial Success Story The interview highlights how Zach and his father transformed a simple YouTube channel into a nationally recognized platform that helps hundreds of thousands of consumers each year. Key Takeaways 1. Car Prices Have Reached Historic Levels One of the most eye-opening parts of the discussion was Zach's explanation of today's automotive market. Average new vehicle prices exceed $50,000. Average used vehicle prices exceed $28,000. Affordable entry-level vehicle options have become increasingly rare. Lesson: Consumers need to carefully budget and research before making a vehicle purchase. 2. Never Skip a Pre-Purchase Inspection Zach repeatedly emphasized that a pre-purchase inspection is the most important step when buying a used vehicle. An independent mechanic can uncover issues that may not appear on vehicle history reports. Lesson: Spending a small amount upfront on an inspection can prevent major repair expenses later. 3. Do Most of Your Homework Before Going to a Dealership Today's buyers can complete much of the purchasing process online. Consumers should: Research prices Compare vehicles Review financing options Understand ownership costs The dealership visit should mainly be for the test drive and final inspection. Lesson: Preparation creates leverage and confidence. 4. Think Beyond the Monthly Payment Many consumers focus only on monthly payments when evaluating vehicles. Zach recommends considering: Depreciation Insurance Fuel expenses Maintenance Repairs Financing costs Lesson: The true cost of ownership extends far beyond the monthly note. 5. Extended Warranties Can Be Negotiated Many consumers assume warranty packages and protection plans are fixed-price products. Zach explains that buyers should: Ask for the total cost Understand what is covered Negotiate the price if interested Lesson: Everything in the finance office is part of the negotiation process. 6. Separate Trade-Ins from Vehicle Purchases A major strategy discussed was treating a trade-in as a separate transaction. Before visiting a dealership: Obtain offers from CarMax Obtain offers from Carvana Use those offers as leverage Lesson: Negotiating the purchase and trade separately helps maximize value. 7. Reliability Matters More Than Ever When discussing dependable vehicle brands, Zach highlighted: Toyota Honda Mazda He noted that reliability should be a major factor in purchasing decisions because maintenance and repair costs significantly impact long-term ownership expenses. Lesson: A lower-maintenance vehicle often provides better long-term value. 8. Driving Cars Longer Is a Smart Financial Strategy Rather than frequently upgrading, Zach recommends keeping vehicles longer and extracting maximum value from them. Lesson: Reducing depreciation is one of the easiest ways to save money over time. Notable Quotes On Entrepreneurship "Being an entrepreneur is scary. Putting your name associated with something, there's a lot of responsibility associated with that." On Car Shopping "Do your wants versus needs analysis." On Used-Car Purchases "Get a pre-purchase inspection." On Ownership Costs "The cost of a car is not just your monthly payment." On Extended Warranties "Ask them what the actual price is of the coverage." On Trade-Ins "Treat buying a car and selling a car as two separate transactions." On Affordability "Don't be spending more than 20% of your gross take-home income on your car." On Long-Term Ownership "Drive your car into the ground." On Reliability "Toyota, Honda, Mazda." The CarEdge Value Proposition CarEdge is built around four core principles: Transparency Providing real-time pricing insights and market data. Consumer Empowerment Giving buyers the information and negotiating tools needed to make informed decisions. AI-Powered Assistance Using technology to simplify vehicle buying and negotiation. Consumer Education Helping people avoid common mistakes that cost buyers time and money. Overall Assessment This interview serves as both a practical consumer guide and an entrepreneurial case study. Zach Shefska explains how CarEdge is helping consumers navigate an increasingly expensive and complex automotive marketplace while using technology to make the car-buying process more transparent. The central message is simple: informed buyers make better decisions. Whether purchasing a new vehicle, shopping for a used car, negotiating a warranty, or evaluating a trade-in, success comes from research, preparation, and understanding the full cost of ownership before signing on the dotted line. #SHMS #STRAW #BEST Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success. Business Podcast Entrepreneurship Small Business Business Growth Financial Literacy Wealth Building Black Entrepreneurs Minority Business Leadership Executive Leadership Business Funding Marketing Strategies Personal Development Startup Advice Sales Training CEO Interviews Founder Stories Professional Development Economic Empowerment Business Success Networking Brand Building Innovation How to start a business Small business funding Entrepreneur success stories Business leadership podcast Wealth building strategies Black entrepreneur podcast Minority business development Marketing for small businesses Business growth strategies Startup funding opportunities Executive leadership training Financial literacy education Success mindset podcastSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Zach Shefska. Co-founder of CarEdge, a consumer-focused automotive platform he launched with his father in 2019. CarEdge was created to bring greater transparency, fairness, and efficiency to the car-buying experience through pricing data, negotiation tools, consumer education, and AI-powered resources. The conversation explores the current automotive market, rising vehicle prices, strategies for buying and selling cars, the role of AI in negotiations, and practical advice for consumers seeking to avoid costly mistakes. Purpose of the Interview 1. Educate Consumers About Car Buying Zach's primary objective was to help consumers become smarter car buyers by understanding vehicle pricing, trade-ins, inspections, warranties, financing, and negotiation tactics. 2. Promote Transparency in the Automotive Industry CarEdge was founded to level the playing field between dealerships and consumers by providing tools and information that reduce confusion and increase buyer confidence. 3. Showcase the Power of AI and Technology Zach discussed how AI is being used to assist consumers with vehicle negotiations and purchasing decisions, making the process more accessible and less intimidating. 4. Share an Entrepreneurial Success Story The interview highlights how Zach and his father transformed a simple YouTube channel into a nationally recognized platform that helps hundreds of thousands of consumers each year. Key Takeaways 1. Car Prices Have Reached Historic Levels One of the most eye-opening parts of the discussion was Zach's explanation of today's automotive market. Average new vehicle prices exceed $50,000. Average used vehicle prices exceed $28,000. Affordable entry-level vehicle options have become increasingly rare. Lesson: Consumers need to carefully budget and research before making a vehicle purchase. 2. Never Skip a Pre-Purchase Inspection Zach repeatedly emphasized that a pre-purchase inspection is the most important step when buying a used vehicle. An independent mechanic can uncover issues that may not appear on vehicle history reports. Lesson: Spending a small amount upfront on an inspection can prevent major repair expenses later. 3. Do Most of Your Homework Before Going to a Dealership Today's buyers can complete much of the purchasing process online. Consumers should: Research prices Compare vehicles Review financing options Understand ownership costs The dealership visit should mainly be for the test drive and final inspection. Lesson: Preparation creates leverage and confidence. 4. Think Beyond the Monthly Payment Many consumers focus only on monthly payments when evaluating vehicles. Zach recommends considering: Depreciation Insurance Fuel expenses Maintenance Repairs Financing costs Lesson: The true cost of ownership extends far beyond the monthly note. 5. Extended Warranties Can Be Negotiated Many consumers assume warranty packages and protection plans are fixed-price products. Zach explains that buyers should: Ask for the total cost Understand what is covered Negotiate the price if interested Lesson: Everything in the finance office is part of the negotiation process. 6. Separate Trade-Ins from Vehicle Purchases A major strategy discussed was treating a trade-in as a separate transaction. Before visiting a dealership: Obtain offers from CarMax Obtain offers from Carvana Use those offers as leverage Lesson: Negotiating the purchase and trade separately helps maximize value. 7. Reliability Matters More Than Ever When discussing dependable vehicle brands, Zach highlighted: Toyota Honda Mazda He noted that reliability should be a major factor in purchasing decisions because maintenance and repair costs significantly impact long-term ownership expenses. Lesson: A lower-maintenance vehicle often provides better long-term value. 8. Driving Cars Longer Is a Smart Financial Strategy Rather than frequently upgrading, Zach recommends keeping vehicles longer and extracting maximum value from them. Lesson: Reducing depreciation is one of the easiest ways to save money over time. Notable Quotes On Entrepreneurship "Being an entrepreneur is scary. Putting your name associated with something, there's a lot of responsibility associated with that." On Car Shopping "Do your wants versus needs analysis." On Used-Car Purchases "Get a pre-purchase inspection." On Ownership Costs "The cost of a car is not just your monthly payment." On Extended Warranties "Ask them what the actual price is of the coverage." On Trade-Ins "Treat buying a car and selling a car as two separate transactions." On Affordability "Don't be spending more than 20% of your gross take-home income on your car." On Long-Term Ownership "Drive your car into the ground." On Reliability "Toyota, Honda, Mazda." The CarEdge Value Proposition CarEdge is built around four core principles: Transparency Providing real-time pricing insights and market data. Consumer Empowerment Giving buyers the information and negotiating tools needed to make informed decisions. AI-Powered Assistance Using technology to simplify vehicle buying and negotiation. Consumer Education Helping people avoid common mistakes that cost buyers time and money. Overall Assessment This interview serves as both a practical consumer guide and an entrepreneurial case study. Zach Shefska explains how CarEdge is helping consumers navigate an increasingly expensive and complex automotive marketplace while using technology to make the car-buying process more transparent. The central message is simple: informed buyers make better decisions. Whether purchasing a new vehicle, shopping for a used car, negotiating a warranty, or evaluating a trade-in, success comes from research, preparation, and understanding the full cost of ownership before signing on the dotted line. #SHMS #STRAW #BEST Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success. Business Podcast Entrepreneurship Small Business Business Growth Financial Literacy Wealth Building Black Entrepreneurs Minority Business Leadership Executive Leadership Business Funding Marketing Strategies Personal Development Startup Advice Sales Training CEO Interviews Founder Stories Professional Development Economic Empowerment Business Success Networking Brand Building Innovation How to start a business Small business funding Entrepreneur success stories Business leadership podcast Wealth building strategies Black entrepreneur podcast Minority business development Marketing for small businesses Business growth strategies Startup funding opportunities Executive leadership training Financial literacy education Success mindset podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Zach Shefska. Co-founder of CarEdge, a consumer-focused automotive platform he launched with his father in 2019. CarEdge was created to bring greater transparency, fairness, and efficiency to the car-buying experience through pricing data, negotiation tools, consumer education, and AI-powered resources. The conversation explores the current automotive market, rising vehicle prices, strategies for buying and selling cars, the role of AI in negotiations, and practical advice for consumers seeking to avoid costly mistakes. Purpose of the Interview 1. Educate Consumers About Car Buying Zach's primary objective was to help consumers become smarter car buyers by understanding vehicle pricing, trade-ins, inspections, warranties, financing, and negotiation tactics. 2. Promote Transparency in the Automotive Industry CarEdge was founded to level the playing field between dealerships and consumers by providing tools and information that reduce confusion and increase buyer confidence. 3. Showcase the Power of AI and Technology Zach discussed how AI is being used to assist consumers with vehicle negotiations and purchasing decisions, making the process more accessible and less intimidating. 4. Share an Entrepreneurial Success Story The interview highlights how Zach and his father transformed a simple YouTube channel into a nationally recognized platform that helps hundreds of thousands of consumers each year. Key Takeaways 1. Car Prices Have Reached Historic Levels One of the most eye-opening parts of the discussion was Zach's explanation of today's automotive market. Average new vehicle prices exceed $50,000. Average used vehicle prices exceed $28,000. Affordable entry-level vehicle options have become increasingly rare. Lesson: Consumers need to carefully budget and research before making a vehicle purchase. 2. Never Skip a Pre-Purchase Inspection Zach repeatedly emphasized that a pre-purchase inspection is the most important step when buying a used vehicle. An independent mechanic can uncover issues that may not appear on vehicle history reports. Lesson: Spending a small amount upfront on an inspection can prevent major repair expenses later. 3. Do Most of Your Homework Before Going to a Dealership Today's buyers can complete much of the purchasing process online. Consumers should: Research prices Compare vehicles Review financing options Understand ownership costs The dealership visit should mainly be for the test drive and final inspection. Lesson: Preparation creates leverage and confidence. 4. Think Beyond the Monthly Payment Many consumers focus only on monthly payments when evaluating vehicles. Zach recommends considering: Depreciation Insurance Fuel expenses Maintenance Repairs Financing costs Lesson: The true cost of ownership extends far beyond the monthly note. 5. Extended Warranties Can Be Negotiated Many consumers assume warranty packages and protection plans are fixed-price products. Zach explains that buyers should: Ask for the total cost Understand what is covered Negotiate the price if interested Lesson: Everything in the finance office is part of the negotiation process. 6. Separate Trade-Ins from Vehicle Purchases A major strategy discussed was treating a trade-in as a separate transaction. Before visiting a dealership: Obtain offers from CarMax Obtain offers from Carvana Use those offers as leverage Lesson: Negotiating the purchase and trade separately helps maximize value. 7. Reliability Matters More Than Ever When discussing dependable vehicle brands, Zach highlighted: Toyota Honda Mazda He noted that reliability should be a major factor in purchasing decisions because maintenance and repair costs significantly impact long-term ownership expenses. Lesson: A lower-maintenance vehicle often provides better long-term value. 8. Driving Cars Longer Is a Smart Financial Strategy Rather than frequently upgrading, Zach recommends keeping vehicles longer and extracting maximum value from them. Lesson: Reducing depreciation is one of the easiest ways to save money over time. Notable Quotes On Entrepreneurship "Being an entrepreneur is scary. Putting your name associated with something, there's a lot of responsibility associated with that." On Car Shopping "Do your wants versus needs analysis." On Used-Car Purchases "Get a pre-purchase inspection." On Ownership Costs "The cost of a car is not just your monthly payment." On Extended Warranties "Ask them what the actual price is of the coverage." On Trade-Ins "Treat buying a car and selling a car as two separate transactions." On Affordability "Don't be spending more than 20% of your gross take-home income on your car." On Long-Term Ownership "Drive your car into the ground." On Reliability "Toyota, Honda, Mazda." The CarEdge Value Proposition CarEdge is built around four core principles: Transparency Providing real-time pricing insights and market data. Consumer Empowerment Giving buyers the information and negotiating tools needed to make informed decisions. AI-Powered Assistance Using technology to simplify vehicle buying and negotiation. Consumer Education Helping people avoid common mistakes that cost buyers time and money. Overall Assessment This interview serves as both a practical consumer guide and an entrepreneurial case study. Zach Shefska explains how CarEdge is helping consumers navigate an increasingly expensive and complex automotive marketplace while using technology to make the car-buying process more transparent. The central message is simple: informed buyers make better decisions. Whether purchasing a new vehicle, shopping for a used car, negotiating a warranty, or evaluating a trade-in, success comes from research, preparation, and understanding the full cost of ownership before signing on the dotted line. #SHMS #STRAW #BEST Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success. Business Podcast Entrepreneurship Small Business Business Growth Financial Literacy Wealth Building Black Entrepreneurs Minority Business Leadership Executive Leadership Business Funding Marketing Strategies Personal Development Startup Advice Sales Training CEO Interviews Founder Stories Professional Development Economic Empowerment Business Success Networking Brand Building Innovation How to start a business Small business funding Entrepreneur success stories Business leadership podcast Wealth building strategies Black entrepreneur podcast Minority business development Marketing for small businesses Business growth strategies Startup funding opportunities Executive leadership training Financial literacy education Success mindset podcastSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Billionaires are easy to hate. And there are several efforts underway to get them to pay their “fair share.” In this episode, Max argues that focusing on taxing billionaires is the wrong discussion and distracts from attaining the tax policy we truly need. Instead of focusing on the individual billionaires, focus on preventing individuals from becoming billionaires. The real story is corporate taxes. Resources Legal Information Institute: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) Center on Budget and Policy Priorities: The 2017 Trump Tax Law Was Skewed to the Rich, Expensive, and Failed to Deliver on Its Promises Tax Policy Center: What is the TCJA repatriation tax and how does it work? Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System: U.S. Corporations’ Repatriation of Offshore Profits: Evidence from 2018 The White House: White House Office of Management and Budget’s Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs Releases End of Year Deregulatory Stats: Showing the Trump Administration Has Best Deregulation Year in History The Washington Times: Impact of Trump’s 646 deregulatory actions diluted by tariffs, executive orders Federal Reserve Bank of New York: Who Is Paying for the 2025 U.S. Tariffs? Elizabeth Warren: Warren Pushes Giant Corporations to Give Billions in Tariff Refunds Back to Consumers npr: Companies are getting tariff refunds of up to $2 billion from the Trump administration CNN: Corporate America got billions of dollars in tariff refunds. Where’s your cut? Congressional Budget Office: Monthly Budget Review: February 2026 Wall Street Journal: Tariff Revenue Exceeded Corporate Taxes as 2025 Ended npr: Proposed California wealth tax sparks debate: Will billionaires leave the state? The New York Times: Founders Wade Into the Wealth Tax Debate Democratic Socialists of America Democracy: A Journal of Ideas: Why Corporations Must Pay More UNFTR Resources Video: Why Taxing Billionaires Won’t Save Us. Essay: Don’t Tax the Rich. Cut Them Off. Episode: Updated Tax Evasion Figures. Video: On The Record 8-17-26 (The AI Bubble is About to Burst | Corporate Control of Trump.) 5 Non-Negotiables -- If you like #UNFTR, please leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify: unftr.com/rate and follow us on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram at @UNFTRpod. Visit us online at unftr.com. Become a member at unftr.com/memberships. Buy yourself some Unf*cking Coffee at shop.unftr.com. Visit our bookshop.org page at bookshop.org/shop/UNFTRpod to find the full UNFTR book list, and find book recommendations from our Unf*ckers at bookshop.org/lists/unf-cker-book-recommendations. Access the UNFTR Musicless feed by following the instructions at unftr.com/accessibilitySupport the show: https://www.unftr.com/membershipsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dental amalgam is approximately 50% mercury by weight, and it releases a vapor that can be inhaled and absorbed, with children's developing neurological systems potentially more sensitive to its effects Since 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has advised dentists to avoid mercury fillings in children under 6 and other higher-risk patients, but the recommendation carries no obligation and no penalty for ignoring it Access to mercury-free care remains unequal, with low-income children, children of color, indigenous communities, Medicaid patients, service members, and institutionalized people often having fewer choices about the materials used Forty-six countries have banned amalgam by law, the European Union (EU) barred it for children under 15 in 2018, and the Minamata Convention set December 31, 2034 as the global end date Consumers for Dental Choice is leading the effort to end amalgam use in children, and I will match every donation dollar for dollar through August 22, 2026, up to $150,000

Today on CarEdge Live, Ray and Zach discuss the latest news from Edmunds. Tune in to learn more! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Dark Horse of Consumer SpendingRetail is obsessed with the next consumer.What does Gen Z want? How will younger shoppers change stores? Which brands, experiences, and trends will win their attention?But while everyone looks ahead, retail may be overlooking one of the most powerful consumers in the market right now.Gen X accounted for $15.2 trillion in global consumer spending in 2025 - that's more than the entire spending power of ChinaGen X are in their peak earning years, but that's only part of the story. Many are making purchasing decisions for households that stretch in both directions, from their children to their aging parents.That makes Gen X more than a valuable demographic. It gives them outsized influence over where money is being spent and what consumers need from the places they visit.And we may already be seeing the impact in retail real estate.The growth of service tenants, demand for health and wellness concepts, the value placed on convenience and quality, and the evolution of shopping centers into places where consumers can accomplish multiple things in one trip all align with the needs of a generation with money to spend and very little time to waste.“Gen X is the overlooked generation that is kind of a spending dark horse,” said Natalie Chambers, Executive Creative Director at The Dealey Group in her conversation on Retail Retold with Chris Ressa. “Retail real estate, in particular, should pay attention to what Gen X is looking for.”Because understanding who is spending is only the beginning.The bigger opportunity is understanding what that spending power changes: the brands that grow, the services consumers seek out, the tenant mixes that drive repeat visits, and ultimately, what makes a shopping center more relevant to the communities it serves.Gen X may be the forgotten generation.Retail can't afford to forget about them.What You'll HearWhy Gen X is retail's “dark horse”The power of the “sandwich generation”What's driving the rise of services in retailWhy Gen X may be the bridge between analog life and AIThe connection between Gen X and the longevity boomThe growing value and influence of consumer reviewsHow shopping centers are evolving for multiple generationsWhy intentional spending is gaining groundChapters01:16 — The consumer signals worth watchingNatalie breaks down the Dealy Group's mid-year trend work and the signals that put Gen X on the radar.01:52 — Why Gen X is suddenly having a momentFrom fashion to pop culture, Gen X influence is showing up in places marketers may not expect.03:16 — The $15.2 trillion wake-up callThe spending data that changes the conversation about how much attention Gen X deserves.04:51 — The consumer in the middle of everythingWhy being the “sandwich generation” gives Gen X influence over spending across multiple age groups.07:38 — What Gen X actually valuesQuality, efficiency and clarity; and why “worth the money” may matter more than simply buying more.09:02 — Is Gen X driving the rise of services?Natalie connects Gen X behavior to service-oriented leasing, while Chris offers another explanation for the shift.12:12 — Why repeat visits matterHow landlords are using service tenants to build retail ecosystems consumers need to visit again and again.13:08 — The generation between analog and AINatalie argues Gen X occupies a unique cultural position. Chris challenges whether that advantage will last.18:36 — Why analog is backVinyl, film, BMX bikes and nostalgia reveal a growing appetite for experiences outside the digital world.25:01 — Longevity is becoming retailWhy wellness concepts focused on staying healthier longer could be another expression of Gen X demand.27:24 — Do online reviews deserve our trust?Chris and Natalie debate who actually writes reviews; and whether those people represent the consumers relying on them.35:02 — Designing retail for three generations at onceWhy green space, restaurants, services and gathering places can solve a very practical Gen X problem.36:49 — Consumers are getting more intentionalFunctional gifts, planning around sales and buying for utility point toward a more deliberate spending mindset.37:43 — The Gen X opportunityNatalie's final argument: retail real estate should pay closer attention to what this overlooked but influential consumer wants.

Jacob Kosior has over ten years of experience in the multifamily housing industry, spanning operations, marketing, and centralization efforts across conventional, student housing, affordable housing, and build-to-rent communities. He previously served as Vice President of Centralized Services at Cardinal Group Management and has held leadership positions with BH Management, The Dinerstein Companies, and CA Ventures. In 2022, while founding a centralized services team at Cardinal Group, Jacob began testing AI tools across the housing space and co-developed a delinquency AI product for rent collection with the EliseAI team. Today he is at EliseAI, where he works with operators of all sizes to implement AI tools, manage the change required for the technology to stick, and rethink how work gets structured across a portfolio. In this episode, Jacob Kosior breaks down how multifamily operators are actually deploying AI, where to start, and what agentic AI changes about the way workflows get built. Drawing on a decade in operations before moving to the technology side, Jacob explains why leasing is the natural entry point, why speed is becoming the metric that matters more than conversion rate alone, and why owners who call their own properties tend to misjudge voice AI. He and John also work through the harder question operators face once automation is in place: what the human team should be doing instead.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Start with leasing, where the tasks are repetitive and already documented Build AI workflows on the same follow-up cadence you train your onsite teams on Track speed alongside conversion rates, because faster cycles compound Decide where human touchpoints serve the customer, not just the org chart Redeploy the hours AI frees up into experience or revenue generating work Ask questions early, since lacking internal AI talent is the most common barrier     Topics From Operations to the Technology Side Jacob spent over a decade in multifamily operations before moving into AI Founding a centralized services team at Cardinal Group in 2022 pushed him to demo every tool available He co-developed a delinquency AI tool and a centralized call center product with EliseAI before joining the company What Agentic AI Actually Changes Generative AI answers prompts; agentic AI follows a workflow toward a defined goal Goals map to work teams already do: book the tour, collect the rent, sign the renewal Operators now control the steps the AI follows, mirroring how they train staff onsite Why Leasing Is the Place to Start Leasing represents the repetitive, high-volume work teams handle every day The old five point follow-up has become 8 to 9 touches per prospect to convert AI works the weekend leads so agents start Monday on tours instead of backlog Who EliseAI Serves The platform crossed 6 million units earlier this year, roughly 1 in 6 US apartments Clients range from top 50 operators to regional operators with a few hundred units Over a billion AI conversations give the platform context on industry edge cases Speed as the Metric Owners Miss The industry tracks conversion rates closely and speed almost not at all A 20% lead-to-tour rate achieved in two hours beats the same rate in two days An assistant manager calls one delinquent resident at a time; AI calls the building Faster cycles give owners earlier visibility into collections, renewals, and leasing velocity Rethinking the ROI Question Operators who never calculated the ROI of a leasing agent struggle to value the AI doing that work The 2025 conversation was about ROI; the 2026 conversation is about creating value Freed capacity opens the door to restructuring teams, not just cutting tasks Deciding Where Humans Step In Human Touch Automations let operators choose where staff enter the customer journey One example is a personal call two hours before a scheduled tour The test is whether the customer wants that touchpoint, not whether the team is used to it Automating administrative work finally gives teams room to deliver the service they advertise The Voice AI Misconception Owners calling their own properties judge voice AI against old press-one phone trees Consumers using AI daily are increasingly comfortable talking to it on the phone Voice AI routes callers to the right person instead of forcing them through a menu Regional dialects lifted both engagement and tour bookings in beta testing What Voice AI Replaces After-hours answering services and overflow call centers become optional Call scoring rates every leasing agent call against a rubric, replacing quarterly mystery shops Self-learning feeds those conversations back into the AI to improve automation rates    

The health and wellness space is crowded, with a lot of companies selling products that they claim will keep you healthier and more active into old age. To differentiate themselves, one company has organized an entire sporting event featuring elite athletes, but with a twist: competitors are allowed to use performance enhancing substances. Max Martin is the Co-founder and CEO of Enhanced, an elite sports competition and performance products company that trades on the NYSE under the symbol ENHA. With a unique background spanning technology, investment banking at Morgan Stanley, and entrepreneurial leadership, Max brings a distinctive perspective on building and scaling disruptive businesses at the intersection of technology, finance, and emerging markets.Today, Max takes us inside Enhanced, their groundbreaking sporting event, their unique product offerings, and why the emergence of peptides could create major tailwinds for the business.Highlights:What is Enhanced and How It Started (2:20)The Enhanced Games Explained (10:05)A Billion Eyeballs on Year One (11:25)Athletes as a Customer Acquisition Engine (12:50)The Peptide Opportunity (14:45)How to Become a Customer (17:05)Standing Out in a Crowded Market (20:25)How Big Is the Market (22:35)Why Enhancement Is for Everyone (25:05)What's Next for Enhanced (27:00)Links:Max Martin LinkedInEnhanced LinkedInEnhanced WebsiteICR LinkedInICR TwitterICR Website Feedback:If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, joe@lowerstreet.co

JPMorgan's stark warning about 2027 blackouts is spurring a 28% surge in home battery installations—and it's reshaping how Americans think about energy security. Steven Wang, CEO of Jackery Americas, stops by the Energy News Beat podcast.The United States faces an unprecedented energy challenge. Electricity demand is surging at a pace the nation's grid infrastructure simply cannot match. JPMorgan Chase recently issued a dire warning: rolling blackouts are coming to America by 2027. But unlike previous energy crises that left consumers helpless, a quiet revolution is underway in garages and basements across the country—one that's putting power literally back into people's hands.The numbers tell the story. Home battery installations surged 28% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026, a remarkable growth rate that defies conventional wisdom. This isn't happening because of government mandates or renewable energy subsidies—in fact, it's accelerating after those subsidies began phasing out. Instead, Americans are waking up to a simple reality: energy security starts at home.https://www.jackery.com/Why Now?The convergence of three forces is driving this shift. First, grid instability is no longer a theoretical concern—it's a lived experience. Natural disasters, wildfires, and typhoons are causing increasingly frequent blackouts. Second, electricity costs are climbing, making backup power economically rational even for middle-class households. A single blackout that spoils a refrigerator's worth of food can pay for a home battery system. Third, the technology has finally matured. Modern power stations are reliable, safe, and genuinely user-friendly—no engineering degree required.Beyond Tesla: The Untapped MarketWhile Tesla's Powerwall has become synonymous with home energy storage, it's designed for larger homes (1,200-3,000 square feet) and carries a premium price tag comparable to a car. This leaves vast segments of the market underserved: apartment dwellers, renters, owners of smaller homes, and those seeking affordable backup for critical appliances.Companies like Jackery are filling this gap with innovative solutions. Their "Fridge Guard" product, for example, offers apartment residents their first real option for permanent backup power—something that was literally impossible just years ago. At $600-$1,000 per unit, multiple units can be deployed throughout a living space for under $2,000, providing comprehensive home backup power.A Global Problem Demands Global SolutionsThis isn't an American problem alone. Brazil, one of the world's most populous nations, faces even worse blackouts than the US. In parts of Africa, grid operators simply shut off power at predetermined times each day. Geopolitical instability is compounding these challenges worldwide. As battery costs continue their dramatic decline—dropping from nearly $1,000 per kilowatt-hour five years ago to just over $500 today—distributed energy storage is becoming economically viable in developing nations too.The Grid Gets SmarterPerhaps most intriguingly, home battery systems are evolving from individual backup solutions into a distributed network that can actually help the grid. Innovative programs like Jackery's partnership with Con Edison in New York demonstrate this potential. Consumers receive free power stations and subsidized electricity in exchange for allowing utilities to draw power during peak demand hours. During scorching summer days when everyone's air conditioning strains the grid, these home batteries discharge to the grid, preventing blackouts and reducing the need for expensive grid expansion.This is peak shaving—and it's a win-win. Utilities get demand flexibility without building new infrastructure. Consumers get free or cheap backup power. The grid becomes more resilient.What Comes NextThe next decade will be defined by three priorities: affordable self-sustainability (off-grid living for the masses), universal backup power (especially for underserved markets), and grid-scale peak shaving (turning millions of home batteries into a virtual power plant).The 2027 blackout warning isn't a death knell—it's a wake-up call. And Americans are answering it, one home battery at a time. The question is no longer whether you need backup power. It's how soon you'll install it.This podcast is with Steven Wang, CEO of Jackery Americas, on the Energy Newsbeat podcast, discussing the convergence of grid instability, technological maturity, and economic incentives driving the home energy storage revolution.We cover how Stu has been using Jackery products for years, and they are not only rock-solid; they can also save lives and money. A shout-out to Steve Reese and the Reese Energy Consulting group for sponsoring the Podcast https://reeseenergyconsulting.com/.Data2 if you have any business systems, can you trust A? Well, they have the patent on validation. . https://data2.zoholandingpage.com/energyAnd we have WellDatabase rolling in as a new sponsor. https://welldatabase.com/

Gas is back at the center of the energy debate. Surging demand for electricity to power new data centres, and growing fears about global energy security resulting from the conflict in the Middle East, are raising some urgent questions for the US gas industry. Consumers want to know whether the US can produce enough gas for the world without losing the price advantage that has benefited American consumers for many years? Can a new era of gas growth strengthen energy security abroad and support cutting-edge technological innovation at home, while also maintaining affordability for most Americans?Host Ed Crooks and regular contributor Amy Myers Jaffe of NYU are joined by Toby Rice, Chief Executive of EQT, one of the largest natural gas producers in the US. Toby argues that America has the resources both to meet rising domestic demand and to supply much more gas to international markets, without sending prices soaring. He sets out EQT's case for US gas to drive growth, affordability, reliability and geopolitical influence. He also makes the case for the environmental benefits of gas as a replacement for coal in power generation.The Trump administration often talks about “energy dominance”. Toby says. He prefers to describe the goal as “energy abundance”.US gas prices have been low by international standards for most of the past 20 years. The big question is whether that price advantage can persist, in the face of rising LNG exports and growing power demand from AI. Ed raises the prospect that continued growth in demand for gas could eventually push up domestic prices, weakening one of the US economy's biggest competitive advantages.Toby's answer is that the shale resource base is deep enough to respond. He argues that at the right price signal, producers can bring on enough supply to support both the domestic market and a much larger export system. He also makes the case that increased US LNG export capacity can strengthen American energy security by creating more flexibility in times of stress, rather than simply exposing Americans to global volatility. Amy highlights the increased global focus on energy security. If countries are becoming more anxious about imported energy after recent geopolitical shocks, will they still want more LNG, even if it comes from a reliable supplier such as the US? Or will they step up investment in domestic alternatives, including renewables, batteries, nuclear, and even coal?Finally, Toby talks about his work with Energy Corps, the nonprofit organization he founded to bring energy abundance to emerging markets. It aims to deploy technologies including renewables, gas and propane for clean cooking, to increase access to modern energy, and demonstrate ways to improve the quality of life for billions of people around the world.More information about Energy Corps is available at its website: www.energycorps.com This episode of Energy Gang is brought to you by ENGIE, the smarter energy supplier. ENGIE doesn't just provide the power to run your business — they supply the energy to move it forward, with reliable, flexible solutions built for what's next. Learn more at engieresources.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, host Andy Leonard sits down with Ilan Man, founder and CEO of Paradox Machines, a full-stack data and AI company based in Brooklyn. Ilan shares his fascinating journey from an actuarial career to the dynamic field of data science, exploring the rise of big data, the art of translating complex mathematics into code, and the importance of numeracy in society. Together, they discuss the paradoxes at the heart of data and AI, the challenges of decision-making under uncertainty, and why intuition, risk management, and storytelling remain critical in a world driven by data. Whether you're a data enthusiast, decision-maker, or just curious about how numbers shape our lives, this conversation delivers valuable insights and a healthy dose of skepticism about the limits, and possibilities, of analytics.Linkshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ilanman/Time Stamps00:00 Starting a career in data science03:34 Discovering a career in actuarial science08:17 Learning coding and joining Squarespace11:40 Understanding Probability in Code15:36 Questioning Confidence in Decision-Making20:06 Discussing COVID vaccine effectiveness21:09 Understanding vaccine effectiveness24:41 Consumers interacting with unpredictable AI29:35 Discussing disease perception and interpretation33:01 Casino audiobook and extra details35:41 Balancing data-driven decisions40:07 Career journey to founding Paradox40:49 Building a data platform with AI46:41 Data's Role in Decision Making47:30 Value and limits of data-driven decisions

August 16 through 22, 2026, we celebrate our 16th Mercury-Free Dentistry Week. Consumers for Dental Choice has engineered a tectonic shift in dentistry — modern dentists no longer place mercury-based dental fillings (amalgam) — and aware consumers shun them Unlike a decade ago, neither the U.S. Food and Drug Administration nor the World Health Organization defends amalgam, and major dental products companies have stopped making it During the last 16 years, I have watched my friend Charlie Brown, executive director for Consumers for Dental Choice, build a powerhouse national and international force that is changing dentistry 180-degrees, from mercury-based to mercury-free In early February 2026, the U.S. Indian Health Service announced it will "end the use of mercury-containing dental amalgam in its facilities by 2027, transitioning to mercury-free restorative materials across IHS and tribal dental program" In July 2026, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services sent a notification urging – but not requiring – all state Medicaid directors to phase out the use of mercury-containing dental fillings by restricting or ending their state's Medicaid coverage for amalgam But the fight is far from over. Amalgam is still routinely used in government programs serving our military, the institutionalized, and low-income families. To end this morally unacceptable system of choice for the rich and mercury for the poor, once again I put my money where my mouth is. Until midnight on August 22, 2026, I will match your gift to Consumers for Dental Choice, dollar for dollar. I'm all in with this cause and ask you to join me!

How should finance leaders measure AI ROI when adoption has slowed and the cost of models, tokens and disconnected tools remains difficult to predict? In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I welcome Jeremy Ung, Chief Technology Officer at BlackLine, back to the podcast to discuss how businesses can move from finance AI experimentation to operational deployment. Figures supplied for the interview show AI adoption in finance rising from 37% in 2023 to 58% in 2024, before moving only slightly to 59% in 2025. Jeremy argues that this apparent plateau reflects several pressures, including uncertainty around cost, regulatory requirements, auditability and the continuing debate over whether companies should build their own AI capabilities or purchase them through established platforms. Token spending is part of the problem. Unlike traditional software costs, model usage can be difficult to predict and allocate. Finance leaders want to understand whether applying AI to a workflow will produce enough value to justify that uncertainty. Jeremy believes companies should avoid creating artificial AI ROI metrics. The business measurements already exist. Is AI helping the company close its books faster? Is transaction matching becoming more accurate? Are collections improving? Is the work being completed faster or with fewer manual steps? We discuss what operationalizing AI in finance looks like in practice. Many processes still require employees to contact vendors, collect information, reconcile data and coordinate with other departments. Traditional software struggled with the variation found in these workflows, while AI can adapt to different processes and communication requirements. Accuracy and oversight remain necessary. Jeremy explains why companies need visibility into the prompts, reasoning, models, data, tools and permissions used by every AI agent. That information creates an operating record that finance teams, auditors and regulators can examine later. His analogy with food labeling provides a useful way to understand AI auditability. Consumers can inspect ingredients, calories and sourcing information before buying food. Finance leaders should expect comparable information about the models and data involved when an agent performs financial work. We also discuss the problem of fragmented data. Jeremy acknowledges the familiar rule of garbage in, garbage out, but argues that AI can help connect legacy platforms and mainframe systems that businesses previously found difficult to integrate. The role of finance professionals will change as agents perform additional work. Employees may spend less time completing individual tasks and more time setting goals, reviewing results, approving actions and directing teams of agents. Should CFOs continue buying additional AI tools, or concentrate on embedding existing investments into the financial workflows that determine business performance? Please share your thoughts with me.

Functionality is everywhere – but are consumers buying the benefit or seeing right through it?  This week, we dig into the rise of protein- and fiber-enhanced snacks from Khloud, Doritos and Smartfood, the growing buzz around colostrum, and a troubling new study on avocado oil authenticity. Plus, we explore the enduring appeal of pickle flavor, Grillo's winning collaboration strategy, premium dates and the surprising technology behind Air Up.  Show notes: 0:20: Ken's Leftovers. A Function-Forward Discussion. Educate Me. It's Not What You Bought. Slurp Up. – Ray digs into a grab bag The Beverage Whisperer left behind after his recent visit to the office, including a zero-sugar sports drink from the U.K. that sparks a conversation about better-for-you sports drinks and the growing popularity of alcoholic sports beverages. The hosts then turn to functionality, sampling Khloud's new protein- and collagen-enhanced chips, Doritos Protein chips and Smartfood Fiber popcorn. They discuss whether consumers actually care about added functionality in familiar products – or if brands are simply layering trendy benefits onto legacy favorites. The conversation continues with the growing buzz around colostrum and the education required to make sense of increasingly popular functional ingredients. The episode then moves to a troubling study on avocado oil, the enduring popularity of pickle flavor and Grillo's remarkable track record of brand collaborations, before wrapping with premium Rancho Meladucco dates and Air Up's unusual approach to flavoring water through scent. Brands in this episode: Posca, Super Lyte, Goldilocks, Khloud, Quest, Doritos, Smartfood, Ancient Nutrition, Mission Craft Cocktails, Grillo's, Firehook, Ithaca, PBR, V8, Utz, Liquid I.V., Pop-Up Bagels, Burt's Bees, Hippeas, Rancho Meladucco Date Farm, Date Fix, Air Up, Szent

Marc Dizard, CIO at Huntington Bank, shares his bullish outlook for the second half of the year, citing strong earnings, a healthy consumer, and growing AI adoption. He also discusses inflation, Fed expectations, and portfolio holdings including Vertiv (VRT), ServiceNow (NOW), CrowdStrike (CRWD), Intel (INTC), Target (TGT), Coca-Cola (KO), and Clorox (CLX).======== 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

The slight downtick in July retail sales is something Eric Brackman didn't expect to see. He expresses concerns on how it could be the start of consumers becoming more selective with purchases as the overhang of inflation pressures spending. Eric explains the impacts he expects to see in consumer spending and how AI plays a role in the outlook. ======== 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

Tim Holland, CIO at Orion, examines the latest inflation data and what it means for the economy and markets. He highlights the strength of the U.S. consumer and labor market, while explaining how America's energy profile may help buffer the impact of geopolitical tensions and potential oil price spikes.======== 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

Rage. That's what consumers are feeling right now. A new survey found consumer complaints hit a record high this year. Another from last year found a huge share of consumers felt ‘rage' with a product or service problem. Just think about the modern consumer experience: hidden fees, ballooning customer support wait times (perpetually experiencing higher call volumes than usual) … shrinkflation! Argh!! What's going on? On today's show, unpacking consumer rage. And Heather Timmons, who covers consumer rights for The Guardian, talks about what we might do about it.Fact checking by Sierra Juarez.Your Next Listen — Petty! Econ! Grievances!Connect with The Indicator — Sign up for The Indicator's weekly newsletter!— Buy the Planet Money book— Find our socials, YouTube and more!For sponsor-free episodes, subscribe to NPR+ Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show's perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Zach Shefska. Co-founder of CarEdge, a consumer-focused automotive platform he launched with his father in 2019. CarEdge was created to bring greater transparency, fairness, and efficiency to the car-buying experience through pricing data, negotiation tools, consumer education, and AI-powered resources. The conversation explores the current automotive market, rising vehicle prices, strategies for buying and selling cars, the role of AI in negotiations, and practical advice for consumers seeking to avoid costly mistakes. Purpose of the Interview 1. Educate Consumers About Car Buying Zach's primary objective was to help consumers become smarter car buyers by understanding vehicle pricing, trade-ins, inspections, warranties, financing, and negotiation tactics. 2. Promote Transparency in the Automotive Industry CarEdge was founded to level the playing field between dealerships and consumers by providing tools and information that reduce confusion and increase buyer confidence. 3. Showcase the Power of AI and Technology Zach discussed how AI is being used to assist consumers with vehicle negotiations and purchasing decisions, making the process more accessible and less intimidating. 4. Share an Entrepreneurial Success Story The interview highlights how Zach and his father transformed a simple YouTube channel into a nationally recognized platform that helps hundreds of thousands of consumers each year. Key Takeaways 1. Car Prices Have Reached Historic Levels One of the most eye-opening parts of the discussion was Zach's explanation of today's automotive market. Average new vehicle prices exceed $50,000. Average used vehicle prices exceed $28,000. Affordable entry-level vehicle options have become increasingly rare. Lesson: Consumers need to carefully budget and research before making a vehicle purchase. 2. Never Skip a Pre-Purchase Inspection Zach repeatedly emphasized that a pre-purchase inspection is the most important step when buying a used vehicle. An independent mechanic can uncover issues that may not appear on vehicle history reports. Lesson: Spending a small amount upfront on an inspection can prevent major repair expenses later. 3. Do Most of Your Homework Before Going to a Dealership Today's buyers can complete much of the purchasing process online. Consumers should: Research prices Compare vehicles Review financing options Understand ownership costs The dealership visit should mainly be for the test drive and final inspection. Lesson: Preparation creates leverage and confidence. 4. Think Beyond the Monthly Payment Many consumers focus only on monthly payments when evaluating vehicles. Zach recommends considering: Depreciation Insurance Fuel expenses Maintenance Repairs Financing costs Lesson: The true cost of ownership extends far beyond the monthly note. 5. Extended Warranties Can Be Negotiated Many consumers assume warranty packages and protection plans are fixed-price products. Zach explains that buyers should: Ask for the total cost Understand what is covered Negotiate the price if interested Lesson: Everything in the finance office is part of the negotiation process. 6. Separate Trade-Ins from Vehicle Purchases A major strategy discussed was treating a trade-in as a separate transaction. Before visiting a dealership: Obtain offers from CarMax Obtain offers from Carvana Use those offers as leverage Lesson: Negotiating the purchase and trade separately helps maximize value. 7. Reliability Matters More Than Ever When discussing dependable vehicle brands, Zach highlighted: Toyota Honda Mazda He noted that reliability should be a major factor in purchasing decisions because maintenance and repair costs significantly impact long-term ownership expenses. Lesson: A lower-maintenance vehicle often provides better long-term value. 8. Driving Cars Longer Is a Smart Financial Strategy Rather than frequently upgrading, Zach recommends keeping vehicles longer and extracting maximum value from them. Lesson: Reducing depreciation is one of the easiest ways to save money over time. Notable Quotes On Entrepreneurship "Being an entrepreneur is scary. Putting your name associated with something, there's a lot of responsibility associated with that." On Car Shopping "Do your wants versus needs analysis." On Used-Car Purchases "Get a pre-purchase inspection." On Ownership Costs "The cost of a car is not just your monthly payment." On Extended Warranties "Ask them what the actual price is of the coverage." On Trade-Ins "Treat buying a car and selling a car as two separate transactions." On Affordability "Don't be spending more than 20% of your gross take-home income on your car." On Long-Term Ownership "Drive your car into the ground." On Reliability "Toyota, Honda, Mazda." The CarEdge Value Proposition CarEdge is built around four core principles: Transparency Providing real-time pricing insights and market data. Consumer Empowerment Giving buyers the information and negotiating tools needed to make informed decisions. AI-Powered Assistance Using technology to simplify vehicle buying and negotiation. Consumer Education Helping people avoid common mistakes that cost buyers time and money. Overall Assessment This interview serves as both a practical consumer guide and an entrepreneurial case study. Zach Shefska explains how CarEdge is helping consumers navigate an increasingly expensive and complex automotive marketplace while using technology to make the car-buying process more transparent. The central message is simple: informed buyers make better decisions. Whether purchasing a new vehicle, shopping for a used car, negotiating a warranty, or evaluating a trade-in, success comes from research, preparation, and understanding the full cost of ownership before signing on the dotted line. #SHMS #STRAW #BEST Money Making Conversations Master Class with Rushion McDonald is America's premier entrepreneurship, business leadership, financial literacy, and wealth-building podcast featuring successful entrepreneurs, executives, founders, celebrities, and industry experts sharing actionable insights for professional and financial success. Business Podcast Entrepreneurship Small Business Business Growth Financial Literacy Wealth Building Black Entrepreneurs Minority Business Leadership Executive Leadership Business Funding Marketing Strategies Personal Development Startup Advice Sales Training CEO Interviews Founder Stories Professional Development Economic Empowerment Business Success Networking Brand Building Innovation How to start a business Small business funding Entrepreneur success stories Business leadership podcast Wealth building strategies Black entrepreneur podcast Minority business development Marketing for small businesses Business growth strategies Startup funding opportunities Executive leadership training Financial literacy education Success mindset podcastSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is there a crisis quietly building in the U.S. auto industry? Car prices surged. Monthly payments exploded. Consumers took on larger loans at higher interest rates—and now we're starting to see signs of stress. In today's episode, we're diving into a great viewer question about the health of the U.S. auto market and, more specifically, the growing concern surrounding auto loan delinquencies and defaults. The numbers deserve attention. U.S. auto loan balances have climbed to roughly $1.7 trillion, while serious delinquencies remain elevated. At the same time, consumers originated a record $211 billion in new auto loans during the second quarter of 2026. So the big question is: Are we looking at normal consumer-credit stress—or the early stages of something much bigger? On today's show, we'll break down: Why auto loans have become increasingly difficult for consumers to afford What rising delinquencies and defaults are telling us How higher interest rates changed the economics of buying a vehicle What happens when borrowers become upside-down on their car loans Whether repossessions could create additional pressure on used-car prices How falling used-car values could ripple through lenders and dealerships Which parts of the auto industry may be most vulnerable Whether this could become a broader problem for the U.S. economy We'll also look at the investment side of the equation. If stress in auto credit continues to build, who gets hurt first? Automakers? Dealerships? Used-car retailers? Banks? Subprime lenders? And perhaps more importantly... Where could the trading opportunities be? One thing is important to keep in perspective: the data doesn't currently prove that we're facing an auto version of the 2008 housing crisis. The New York Fed's latest data shows that the flow of auto loans entering serious delinquency has recently been relatively stable, even though overall stress remains elevated. That's exactly why this topic is so interesting. The warning lights are flashing—but that doesn't necessarily mean the engine is about to blow. We'll separate the social-media hype from the actual numbers and determine just how concerned traders and investors should be. For additional research, check out the New York Fed Household Debt and Credit Report, which tracks auto loans, credit cards, mortgages and consumer delinquencies. Listen now:

1. Why Life Planning Should Come Before Financial Planning Why you need to understand the life you want to create before deciding how your money should support it. Using a lifetime cash flow plan to identify future liabilities and the assets needed to fund them. 2. Looking Beyond Investments to Understand Total Wealth Why traditional financial planning can focus too heavily on regulated investments rather than the full picture of someone's wealth. Looking at property, pensions, savings, investments and future earnings as part of a wider wealth plan. 3. The Overlooked Value of Human Capital Understanding human capital as the skills, property, intellectual property, networks and other assets that can generate earnings. How leveraging human capital can create entrepreneurial opportunities, income and financial capital over time. 4. Taking Back Control Through Financial Agency What Steve means by financial agency and why people should have greater ownership of their financial decisions. How proportional planning can provide expert support during complexity, stress or major life changes without creating permanent dependency. 5. How AI Could Change Financial Planning Why AI is reducing the information gap between financial institutions and consumers. How individuals can use AI as a co-pilot to improve their financial capability and productivity while retaining human judgement. 6. Understanding Fees and Making Better Financial Decisions Why consumers should take a closer look at the charges attached to pensions, investments and financial products. How AI-powered tools could help people identify hidden terms, charges and potential red flags so they can make more informed decisions. 7. The Future of Financial Advice and Wealth Transfer How changing consumer expectations, technology and the Great Wealth Transfer could reshape the traditional financial advice model. Why greater financial capability, combined with professional support when genuinely needed, could give future generations more control over their wealth. Resources: The Academy of Life Planning - Navigate life with confidence WealthBuilders - Build, protect and transfer your wealth WealthBuilders Membership: Free access to guides, webinars, and community Connect with Us: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey:   Join the WealthBuilders Facebook Community Schedule a 1:1 call with one of our team Become a member of WealthBuilders If you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk, please leave us a review!

New regulations begin today (Wednesday July 15th) for shoppers using Buy Now Pay Later. Consumers using services like Klarna and Clearpay will now be given more protection but also a greater risk of rejection, as new affordability checks begin. BNPL schemes often provide interest free payment options over several months and have proved immensely popular. Experian estimates that a 100mn transactions were made that way last year, adding up to about £7bn. Meanwhile, new data from one of the country's largest free money advice services, Money Wellness, shows BNPL has become an increasingly common feature of customers' finances over the past four years, with June recording 4,520 customers seeking help with BNPL debt. That's the highest June on record and second only to the traditional post-Christmas spike seen in January.Presenter Felicity Hannah talks to the Financial Conduct Authority to find out if the new rules are going to improve things for shoppers. She's joined by an expert panel answering listener questions – Mick McAteer of The Financial Inclusion Centre, a UK not-for-profit policy and research group. and Matthew Sheeran from Money Wellness.Presenter: Felicity Hannah Producer: Craig Henderson Editor: Jess Quayle Senior News Editor: Sara WadesonPhoto credit: Pakorn Supajitsoontorn via Getty Images. (This episode of Money Box Live was first broadcast on BBC Radio Four at 3pm on Wednesday 15th July)

In this episode, founder of the For Farmers Movement Dana DiPrima talks about the disconnect between end consumers and farmers and what they do.   Subscribe for more content on sustainable farming, market farming tips, and business insights!   Get market farming tools, seeds, and supplies at Modern Grower. Follow Modern Grower:  Instagram  Instagram Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network:  Carrot Cashflow  Farm Small Farm Smart  Farm Small Farm Smart Daily  The Growing Microgreens Podcast  The Urban Farmer Podcast  The Rookie Farmer Podcast  In Search of Soil Podcast Check out Diego's books:  Sell Everything You Grow on Amazon   Ready Farmer One on Amazon **** Modern Grower and Diego Footer participate in the Amazon Services LLC. Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Today on CarEdge Live, Ray and Zach discuss the latest news on credit availability. Tune in to learn more! 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 Take-Away with Sam Oches, Sam talks with Josh Smith, the founder and owner of Neon Greens, a St. Louis business that opened in 2024 as both a fast-casual salad restaurant and a working farm. The restaurant is attached to a hydroponics operation where Neon Greens grows its greens before sending it to the kitchen via conveyor belt. Not only does this create a great show for guests, but it also provides them with high-quality, hyperlocal produce at a time when food-borne illnesses are making consumers lose trust in the supply chain. Josh joined the podcast to talk about the state of the farm-to-table movement, why our supply chain needs to be decentralized, and why restaurants must have a clear “why” that drives their growth.In this conversation, you'll find out why:Restaurants are telling a story, and the operator's conviction in that story determines its successThe supply chain needs to diversify, and hydroponics is just one solution Consumers crave transparency in their relationship with foodEvery menu item has a story, and your employees should know how to tell itThe nexus of quality, value, and experience will drive the future of restaurants Your “why” isn't just your purpose; it's your decision-making compassBig, transformative ideas don't need scale to make an impactHave feedback or ideas for Take-Away? Email Sam at sam.oches@informa.com.

In this episode of youngadults.today, Josiah and Micah sit down with David Wright, College Pastor at Life.Church Stillwater, to unpack how their Late Night college service is turning college students from spiritual consumers into spiritual contributors. David shares the story behind Late Night, why Sunday night church for college students works in a college town, how they retain and develop student leaders, and why simple, repeatable systems and clear discipleship pathways are critical for young adult ministry. If you're dreaming about reaching college students or launching a young adult ministry in your context, this conversation will give you both vision and practical handles. More about us: www.youngadults.today Resources & Action Steps: Sign up for the West Coast Leader Gathering August 12-13th, 2026 in Irvine, CA: https://www.youngadults.today/west-coast-conference Give to the mission of youngadultstoday: https://tithe.ly/give?c=5350133 Resources: Free eBook "10 Steps to Starting a Successful Young Adult Ministry: https://www.youngadults.today/book/starting-a-successful-young-adult-ministry Join our FaceBook Group Community with 2500+ leaders: https://www.facebook.com/groups/796270437396021 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youngadults.today/ 

Your 60-second money minute. Today's topic: All America Survey On Consumers Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What happens when roughly a million people working legally in the U.S. suddenly lose that right to stay here? We're starting to find out in places like Miami, Florida, home to one of the largest Haitian communities in the country. There, we talk to people on what the end of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) means for their businesses and the wider economy. Fact checking by Sierra Juarez.Your Next Listen — Your American Dream is pending reviewConnect with The Indicator — Sign up for The Indicator's weekly newsletter!— Buy the Planet Money book— Find our socials, YouTube and more!— For sponsor-free episodes, subscribe to NPR+ Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show's perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

In episode 2103, Miles and guest co-host Blake Wexler are joined by writer, podcaster, and creator of JennaWorld, Molly Lambert, to discuss… Janine Pirro vs REALITY, David Ellison’s Paramount-Warner Merger Has Full Support Of David Ellison, MAGA’s Laziest Propaganda Yet? Taylor Farms’ Explosive Diarrhea Scandal Now Includes “Forced Labor” And “Death” and more! Trump: "We have photographs or tapes -- like moving cameras, right? -- where people are on the side cutting it with a box knife." Side by side video of Trump contradicting himself on reflecting pool Paramount and Warner Bros pause $110bn merger amid legal challenge David Ellison: In Defense of the Paramount-Warner Deal The fight for Warner Bros. gets hostile. Consumers have a lot to lose. AMC-coded MAGA AI Slop Commercial First two people die in US from explosive diarrhea cyclosporiasis outbreak Sen. Blumenthal calls for Taylor Farms investigation amid deadly cyclospora outbreak Former Taylor Farms Tenn. President accused of stealing $32M in fraud case The Diarrhea Lettuce Company Has Been Linked to Forced Labor Captive Labor Exploitation of Incarcerated Workers Prisoners in the US are part of a hidden workforce linked to hundreds of popular food brands Cheap Jail and Prison Food Is Making People Sick. It Doesn’t Have To. Billion-dollar California salad company exploits undocumented migrants, say workers and Teamsters Taylor Farms, Big Food Supplier, Grapples With Frequent Recalls The Real Trump Scandal in the Explosive Diarrhea Outbreak Story LISTEN: Tree's Root by S!RENESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US electricity prices are rising at well above the general rate of inflation. The data center investment boom, by adding to electricity demand, points to further upward pressure in the future. Consumers are feeling the strain, and they want politicians and regulators to do something about it. One proposed solution is that the rules around competitive power markets need radical reform. In this episode, the Energy Gang looks at PJM, the largest power market in the US, and debates a possible way to add to electricity supplies without pushing bills even higher.Host Ed Crooks and regular contributor Amy Myers Jaffe of NYU are joined by Carim Khouzami, Executive Vice President for Transmission and Development at Exelon, one of the largest US utility groups. Carim explains why the landscape of the US power industry has changed fundamentally over the past five years: electricity demand is rising at a pace the sector has not seen in decades, driven by data centres, electrification, and broader economic growth. And that demand surge is colliding with an electricity system that was designed for a very different era.Competitive markets such as PJM were meant to bring down costs for consumers and send the right signals to the industry for new investment. But Carim argues that in many markets, those signals are no longer working as intended. Customers are seeing higher bills and the reliability of the system is under threat. Reserve margins are getting tighter, and the industry is struggling to bring new generation online quickly enough.PJM offers one of the clearest examples of how those tensions are playing out. The region is grappling with soaring demand, especially from data centres, while trying to manage affordability and reliability at the same time. Carim, Amy and Ed explore why PJM has raised concerns with among state governors, federal regulators and the White House. And they explain why its challenges echo similar problems elsewhere.The central issue is about the market structures that will be best able to meet those challenges in the future. How can the next wave of infrastructure can be built in ways that support both the reliability and the affordability of electricity supplies? Carim makes the case that regulated utilities such as Exelon, which are often prevented by state rules from owning generation capacity, should be allowed to run their own power plants. His proposal opens up a wider debate about the future of power markets and electricity systems generally. There is plenty of evidence that competitive markets have delivered benefits for consumers. But can they meet the needs of the new world of AI-driven demand growth? And if not, is utility ownership of power plants the right solution? Amy highlights the risks of overbuilding new power plants, and asks whether alternative solutions such as batteries are being given a fair chance to compete.Carim defends his proposal as the best way to secure reliability and value for customers. The current model is not working, he says, and reform is now the best option. PJM, as it has operated until now, may not be ready for the demands that AI, electrification and the energy transition are about to place on it. Politicians and regulators across the US and around the world will be watching to see how it responds.This episode of Energy Gang is brought to you by ENGIE, the smarter energy supplier. ENGIE doesn't just provide the power to run your business — they supply the energy to move it forward, with reliable, flexible solutions built for what's next. Learn more at engieresources.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Head of US Public Policy Strategy Ariana Salvatore and US Thematic Strategist Michelle Weaver, alongside Senior Economist and Strategist in Morgan Stanley's Private Wealth Management Sarah Wolfe, examine the economics of the AI datacentre boom, the pushback and the policy implications.Read more insights from Morgan Stanley.----- Transcript -----Ariana Salvatore: Welcome to Thoughts on the Market. I'm Ariana Salvatore, Head of Public Policy Research at Morgan Stanley. Michelle Weaver: I'm Michelle Weaver, U.S. Thematic and Equity Strategist. Sarah Wolfe: And I'm Sarah Wolfe, Senior Economist and Strategist with Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. Ariana Salvatore: Today: the politics, economics, and market implications of America's AI data center build-out. It's Tuesday, August 4th at 10am in New York. AI infrastructure spending is becoming a major force in the U.S. investment cycle. But as you've heard on this podcast in recent weeks, local resistance to data centers is growing, and projects worth hundreds of billions of dollars are being canceled or delayed. More than 300 local moratoria have passed since 2023, and restrictions now touch 40 states. Now, most are temporary pauses, not outright bans, but the community opposition is tangible. For investors, the key question is how these local pressures shape the broader build-out. So, I wanted to talk to you both because, Sarah, you've looked at this on the local level, and Michelle, you've been leading some of our thematic work on this topic. So, Sarah, maybe we'll start with what happens when a data center comes to town. How does a large project ripple through a local economy, especially when so much of the expensive hardware is imported? Sarah Wolfe: I think we need to look at the data center build-out from two lenses. First, at the national level, and then what's really happening at the local level, county by county. So, at the national level, the headline investment can actually overstate the contribution to GDP because a lot of the components that go into data centers – think chips, servers, networking equipment – most of that is imported. So, it's actually an offset in the GDP accounting.But when we analyze the AI build-out at a local level, we see that the town experiences the project very differently. A data center still needs a physical shell, concrete, steel, electricians, construction workers, and then the restaurants that feed the construction workers. So, the local multiplier depends on how much of that spending around the data center stays nearby. Workers are going to get paid, local suppliers win contracts, and nearby businesses will see more demand. And then importantly, governments may collect more property and business tax revenue. When we look at county-level research on the AI data center build-out, we do see positive effects on employment, business formation, wages, income, and tax returns. So, these data centers are significant. They do have significant multipliers. But we need to dig a little bit deeper and look at how it affects different counties. Ariana Salvatore: So, it sounds like there are some local economic benefits. How durable do you think those are? Sarah Wolfe: Some of the effects are durable and some aren't. The largest and most important effects come through employment in the near term. If we look at the construction phase of these projects, let's look at a data center that's 250,000 square foot, in Virginia. That supports more than 1,500 workers during construction. But then, if we look at what happens after construction is done, there's only about 50 full-time workers once it's operating. And I will say I think that's a high-end estimate. If you look at how many workers these data centers employ state by state, some numbers are 10, some numbers are 20, and some are 30 employees. So, 50 is maybe on the higher end. So, the bottom line is that the labor market multiplier actually fades after the facility comes online. What does persist, are the smaller share of data center processing jobs, ongoing supplier and service activity, and then importantly, of course, the property tax base. But even that fiscal benefit depends on how the incentive package is designed. If a locality, for example, grants a very large, long-lived sales or property tax exemption, it may give away much of the revenue that made the project attractive in the first place. So, the job story is real, but it's much more front-loaded. And then the tax revenue story is real too, but it really matters on how the locality negotiated the incentive package. Ariana Salvatore: So, it sounds like there are some benefits and some potential drawbacks. How do you think communities should judge whether a trade-off like that is worth it? Sarah Wolfe: I think communities should be asking this question of how much spending and tax revenue actually stays local after all the incentives? How many jobs remain after construction? Who pays for new generation transmission, water system, and roads? And who bears the spillovers through utility bills, housing costs, or land use? The evidence does suggest that data center growth can lift incomes and expand the tax base. But it also raises home prices. And as we know, it raises electricity prices as well. A typical AI data center may use as much electricity as 100,000 homes, so cost allocation is critical. The strongest agreements make benefits durable and costs explicit through transparent reporting, sunset dates or claw backs on incentives, infrastructure cost-sharing, and protections that keep the household from subsidizing this build-out. The test is really whether the community captures enough lasting value to justify the demands on land, power, water, housing, and public finances. Ariana Salvatore: Michelle, I want to bring you in here. The local picture that Sarah describes helped explain why the politics can be so uneven. How are moratoria and other local restrictions changing the pace and the location of the build-out, maybe on a national scale? Michelle Weaver: I think you have to think about just the different type of moratoria themselves even. So, we're not seeing them uniform across different states in what's been proposed.However, the majority of moratoria are a pause, not a[n] outright ban on construction. So, they might say, "Okay, we want one year," or "We want three years to do local impact studies and, and think about the way these data centers are going to impact communities." So, the primary risk is really to the pace of the build-out, and as more and more of these moratoria pop up, you have to start to think about how that could shift the geography and the location of where these data centers will ultimately be built. We are seeing a shift towards more data centers being placed in rural locations. This also has implications for the international data center build-out. You're seeing more and more of these data centers go up in Canada and in Australia to serve U.S. needs. Ariana Salvatore: The polling data show us that voters are increasingly skeptical of AI. Specifically, they're worried about electricity prices and local costs. How should investors read that concern? Michelle Weaver: Well, there's a couple things we have to unpack here. First is really around perception. So, in certain areas where you have both high data center activity as well as unregulated utility markets; yes, it's true, there is some of this raised cost ending up on consumer power bills from data center activity. But in other areas with unregulated utility markets and lower data center activity, you don't see the same link between consumer power bills and what's going on with data center electricity consumption. But perception is what really drives politics and given that this perception is becoming spread across different states with both regulated and unregulated utility markets, politicians are reacting to it. And the second thing this gets at is affordability. Consumers have been stressed by inflation for years now and elevated prices. And given that they think that data center costs are now winding up on their power bills, it's not surprising that you're seeing this big reaction, and that anything having to do with affordability has become a huge issue for voters. Ariana Salvatore: Translating that into how we think things evolve from here, what industry and financing trends do you think matter most going forward? Michelle Weaver: We recently identified the three main bottlenecks for the data center build-out as power, people, and politics. This whole episode has been about that third P, politics, but let's unpack power and people. On power, we still think there's a potential shortfall of around 38 gigawatts needed through 2028. So, power is going to remain a huge bottleneck, and as the politics layer gets placed on top of the power layer, you're seeing more and more of an issue there. And so, what that really argues for is for data centers to be off grid. That way they can say, "Okay, there's no way we can potentially impact consumer power bills if we're not even connected to the grid." The second P, people, is another big bottleneck, and we're seeing a very tough time for data centers to get skilled laborers. It's very hard to find electricians right now and other skilled laborers needed to set up these data centers. Ariana, that brings us to the policy debate. Why is data center opposition moving from town halls into state houses and Congress? And what does this mean for a conditional build-out? Ariana Salvatore: Yes, I think the points that you both touched on really explain why we're seeing this sort of pushback evolve, right?Local communities are concerned about their electricity prices. Again, we see that on more a regional than a national basis. They're concerned about quality-of-life concerns. They're concerned about the environmental impacts. And so, all of that has caused these efforts to sort of cross state lines. We see it in both Democrat-held state legislatures as well as Republican-held. So, it's definitely resonating with voters, and this is an issue that we think is going to be a key wedge issue into the midterm elections. It started to move into Congress rhetorically, but we still think something like a federal ban or a federal moratorium is very unlikely. And that's because we see a different incentive structure for lawmakers in Congress from the state and local level. Principally, I'm talking about the U.S.-China relationship. So, when you look at the geopolitical backdrop to this debate, there are certain things that you can't ignore. And one of those things is that the U.S. and China are locked in this race for AI supremacy at the moment. And I think federal lawmakers have more of an incentive to respond to those policy demands and those policy needs, meaning they want to keep facilitating the build-out.So that's why you're seeing the national level still relatively supportive of this build-out. We're seeing permitting reform. We're seeing Defense Production Act being leveraged by the president. We're seeing still an overall very favorable environment trying to unlock, sort of, that power bottleneck, for example. So that's kind of what brings us to this conditional build-out. Now, what does that mean? We think that the hyperscalers in these companies are going to have to offer some concession to local communities to facilitate the build-out. And that could be a number of things. I think it depends on the state's concern or the local community's concern principally, but we see a few different options. One of those things is behind-the-meter power generation. So on-site power is one of the clear kind of offsets to this debate. Another thing would be improving utilization rates. So, our sustainability analysts found that the capacity utilization rates are actually quite low at some of these data centers in the range of 30 to 40 percent. So maybe that can be increased. We've got some potential new regulations or transparency requirements around water usage. So, the short of it is, there's not going to be a one-size-fits-all solution here. But we think there's enough on the policy side that these companies can do or offer essentially to local communities. So that the entire build-out doesn't get delayed or doesn't get stopped. And, and that's kind of why we still expect elevated AI CapEx, not just this year, but next year as well. We think that the risks are skewed to the upside for those numbers.Sarah Wolfe: Ariana, I want to touch back to the comment you made on low odds of a nationwide ban on AI data center build-out – and tie it to this broader competition between the U.S. and China, with global supremacy in AI. Can you talk a little bit more about how competition with China is going to prevent a nationwide ban and some of the national security concerns around that? Ariana Salvatore: This ties into the theme of sovereign AI, which is something that we've been focused on recently, especially with all these discussions of more tech restrictions and controls between the U.S. and China. And specifically, it's one of the reasons that we think the geographical build-out will be constrained to either just the U.S. domestically or countries that we are closely aligned with. And really the point I want to make here is that there's three geopolitical realities that are going to form, we think, the incentive structure for federal lawmakers and that are slightly different from the things that state and local policymakers tend to focus on. The first is that we're seeing China leverage its supply chain position to pressure the physical inputs required for AI infrastructure, right? So, we're seeing that tit-for-tat escalation in the context of a broader strategic détente, but there's still a competitive aspect there. The second is that we know China's accelerating its own physical AI build-out. Reporting indicates they're spending something like $300 billion over five years on its own domestic network, so very much full steam ahead in terms of its own domestic potential. And the third is that research has identified China-linked influence operations that use an American frontier model to generate social media posts, comments, and political cartoons linking the data center construction to rising energy prices. So, there's still a little bit of uncertainty as to whether or not those campaigns actually influence public opinion at scale. But in our view, it really underscores the linkage between national security and geopolitics and the AI data center build-out. All these developments together we think underscore the physical component of the AI race and make something like a national data center ban or federal legislation toward those ends really difficult to reconcile with the growing bipartisan strategic imperative around AI, which is something that we think persists past the midterms as well. But at the end of the day, the pace of the AI build-out will depend not just on demand, but on how well projects address the concerns of the communities hosting them. That's why we think this conditional build-out is probably the right base case for now. Michelle and Sarah, thanks so much for taking the time to talk. Michelle Weaver: Great speaking with you both. Sarah Wolfe: Thank you, Ariana. Ariana Salvatore: And thanks for listening. If you enjoy Thoughts on the Market, please leave us a review wherever you listen and share the podcast with a friend or colleague today.*****Sarah Wolfe is a member of Morgan Stanley's Wealth Management Division and is not a member of Morgan Stanley's Research Department. Unless otherwise indicated, her views are her own and may differ from the views of the Morgan Stanley Research Department and from the views of others within Morgan Stanley.

Tom Szaky built TerraCycle into a recycling giant, then decided recycling wasn't good enough. His new venture, Loop, aimed to replace disposable packaging with reusable containers for brands like Tide and Häagen-Dazs. Consumers loved it. Retailers loved it. So why did it nearly die in four out of five test markets? Szaky breaks down the hidden flaw that almost killed Loop, and the simple insight that finally made it scale. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since 2020, the cost of groceries has risen 26%. But contrary to what you might think, cash-strapped consumers aren't necessarily staying away from pricier options. In this episode, why Americans are doubling down on organic — even as the cost of their overall grocery haul rises. Plus: Why more customers are choosing chargebacks, what economists predict about inflation two years from now, and how a Maine nonprofit is bringing lobstering to the next generation.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.Read the stories in today's episode:The Fed doesn't have an inflation crystal ball, but it does have "sticky-price CPI"In spite of price hike fatigue, consumers are still snapping up organic foodsCredit card chargebacks are on the rise — part of the reason is fraudMultiple wars drive up the price of diesel"Never would have expected to be here": Young Mainers consider the lobster

Since 2020, the cost of groceries has risen 26%. But contrary to what you might think, cash-strapped consumers aren't necessarily staying away from pricier options. In this episode, why Americans are doubling down on organic — even as the cost of their overall grocery haul rises. Plus: Why more customers are choosing chargebacks, what economists predict about inflation two years from now, and how a Maine nonprofit is bringing lobstering to the next generation.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.Read the stories in today's episode:The Fed doesn't have an inflation crystal ball, but it does have "sticky-price CPI"In spite of price hike fatigue, consumers are still snapping up organic foodsCredit card chargebacks are on the rise — part of the reason is fraudMultiple wars drive up the price of diesel"Never would have expected to be here": Young Mainers consider the lobster

This week's headlines all point to one important question. Private listings are expanding. Buyers are wondering how to find every available home. Sellers are hearing more about selling without an agent. Brokerages are debating listing policies, and ethics complaints are making national news. So here's the question. Are consumers getting the full story?   Resources for this episode https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ExaK3ixAvI   Join the Conversation Live Thanks for spending part of your day with me. Every Thursday at 9:00 AM ET, I go live on YouTube to talk through the week's biggest housing and real estate headlines. The best part is hearing your questions and perspectives while we're live. I'd love for you to join the conversation. Subscribe and turn on notifications here:

This week, Aaron is MIA so the guys are joined by Lee Kimbrell from the Life Of Dad podcast and Greg Warren from The Consumers podcast. Brian updates the guys on how his special is doing, Greg reveals (to Dusty's pleasure) that he's getting into grounding and Lee gives his take on Skyline Chili. Plus the guys learn a little bit about the Seven Wonders Of The World.IIElevenLabs: elevenlabs.io/NATELAND-If you run a business with any kind of customer operation, support, sales, or onboarding, you can start with a demo at elevenlabs.io/NATELANDSuperpower: Superpower.com Head to Superpower.com and use code NATE at checkout for $20 off your membership. Get 100+ biomarkers tested every year, plus a personalized health plan and on-demand care team. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpod #adEthos: https://ethos.com/natelandProtect your family with life insurance from Ethos. Get up to $3 million in coverage in as little as 10 minutes at https://ethos.com/nateland. Application times may vary. Rates may vary. Trustpilot rating as of 6/1/2025.Ultra Pouches: takeultra.comDon't sleep on @ultrapouches. New customers get 15% Off with code NATELAND at takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad

Discover if the economy is weakening. Consumer confidence declined modestly in July as Americans expressed greater concern about business conditions, the labor market, and the cost of living. Despite weaker sentiment, consumer spending has remained resilient, suggesting feelings and economic behavior are not perfectly aligned. Key Takeaways Consumer confidence fell to 90.8, below expectations. Views of current business conditions and the labor market weakened. Grocery prices remain a major source of inflation concern. Consumers are still planning travel, dining out, and major purchases. Soft sentiment data doesn't always predict hard economic outcomes. AI-driven productivity gains could continue supporting lower inflation and stronger long-term growth. Are you on track for financial freedom...or not? Financial freedom is a combination of money, compounding and time (my McT Formula). How well you invest can make the biggest difference to your financial freedom and lifestyle. If you invested well for the long-term, what a difference it would make because the difference between investing $100k and earning 5 percent or 10 percent on your money over 30 years, is the difference between it growing to $432,194 or $1,744,940, an increase of over $1.3 million dollars. Your compounding rate, and how well you invest, matters!  INVESTING IS WHAT THE BE WEALTHY & SMART VIP EXPERIENCE IS ALL ABOUT - Invest in digital assets and stock ETFs for potential high compounding rates - Receive an Asset Allocation model with ticker symbols and what % to invest -Monthly LIVE investment webinars with Linda 10 months per year, with Q & A -Private VIP Facebook group with daily community interaction -Weekly investment commentary -Extra educational wealth classes available -Pay once, have lifetime access! NO recurring membership fees. -US and foreign investors are welcome -No minimum $ amount to invest -Tech Team available for digital assets (for hire per hour) For a limited time, enjoy a 50% savings on my private investing group, the Be Wealthy & Smart VIP Experience. Pay once and enjoy lifetime access without any additional recurring fees. Pay once and you're done! Invest with our successful community for years to come. Enter "SAVE50" to save 50% here: http://tinyurl.com/InvestingVIP Or set up a complimentary conversation to answer your questions about the Be Wealthy & Smart VIP Experience. Request an appointment to talk with Linda here: https://tinyurl.com/TalkWithLinda (yes, you talk to Linda!). SUBSCRIBE TO BE WEALTHY & SMART Click Here to Subscribe Via iTunes Click Here to Subscribe Via Stitcher on an Android Device Click Here to Subscribe Via RSS Feed LINDA'S WEALTH BOOKS 1. Get my book, "3 Steps to Quantum Wealth: The Wealth Heiress' Guide to Financial Freedom by Investing in Cryptocurrencies". 2. Get my book, "You're Already a Wealth Heiress, Now Think and Act Like One: 6 Practical Steps to Make It a Reality Now!" Men love it too! After all, you are Wealth Heirs. :) International buyers (if you live outside of the US) get my book here. WANT MORE FROM LINDA? Check out her programs. Join her on Instagram. WEALTH LIBRARY OF PODCASTS Listen to the full wealth library of podcasts from the beginning.  SPECIAL DEALS #Ad Apply for a Gemini credit card and get FREE XRP back (or any crypto you choose) when you use the card. Charge $3000 in first 90 days and earn $200 in crypto rewards when you use this link to apply and are approved: https://tinyurl.com/geminixrp This is a credit card, NOT a debit card. There are great rewards. Set your choice to EARN FREE XRP! #Ad Protect yourself online with a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Get 3 MONTHS FREE when you sign up for a NORD VPN plan here.  #Ad To safely and securely store crypto, I recommend using a Tangem wallet. Get a 10% discount when you purchase here. #Ad If you are looking to simplify your crypto tax reporting, use Koinly. It is highly recommended and so easy for tax reporting. You can save $20, click here. Be Wealthy & Smart,™ is a personal finance show with self-made millionaire Linda P. Jones, America's Wealth Mentor.™ Learn simple steps that make a big difference to your financial freedom.  (This post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission. There is no additional cost to you.)