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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Should licensed broadcast radio and television stations have to give equal time to competing political candidates?" A Stephen Colbert interview with Texas Senate candidate James Talarico has reignited debate over the FCC's nearly century-old equal time rule. After CBS lawyers raised concerns about triggering the regulation, Colbert cried foul — and the controversy exploded online. Michael breaks down what the rule actually says, how it differs from the Fairness Doctrine, and whether “spectrum scarcity” still justifies government oversight in today's media landscape. Is this selective enforcement, political pressure, or simply the law being applied? And in an era of unlimited media choices, should balanced coverage be the government's job — or ours? Listen here, then vote, and please rate, review, and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
AWS Morning Brief for the week of February 23rd, with Corey Quinn. Links:Amazon Bedrock expands support for AWS PrivateLinkAWS CloudWatch Alarm Mute Rules eliminate alert fatigueAmazon EC2 supports nested virtualization on virtual Amazon EC2 instancesAnnouncing Amazon DocumentDB long-term support (LTS) on 5.0AWS Certificate Manager updates default certificate validity to comply with new guidelinesClaude Sonnet 4.6 now available in Amazon BedrockKiro is now available in AWS GovCloud (US) RegionsAmazon EC2 Hpc8a Instances powered by 5th Gen AMD EPYC processors are now availableIntroducing VPC encryption controls: Enforce encryption in transit within and across VPCs in a RegionMigrating from AWS App Runner to Amazon ECS Express ModeIntroducing Agent Plugins for AWSBuild unified intelligence with Amazon Bedrock AgentCoreReduce unexpected AWS costs: Tracing AWS billing charges with log correlation techniques
For two decades, organisations have invested heavily in ERP and procurement platforms to digitise source-to-pay. Yet many procurement leaders still find themselves managing critical processes in Excel, chasing approvals over email, and relying on experience rather than real-time intelligence to negotiate with suppliers. The uncomfortable truth? Most enterprise systems were built for control and record-keeping, not optimisation. Unfortunately, we now live in a world increasingly defined by margin pressure, supply chain volatility, and investor scrutiny. So archaic, clunky, limited technology is no longer good enough, especially in Europe with strong economic headwinds, that will last for several years and rapid growth of AI disruption. CFOs Want Efficiency. Procurement Is Under-Resourced. Today's forward thinking CFO's are laser focused on cost discipline, working capital, OpEx/CapEx optimisation, and resilience. Global advisory firms consistently reinforce this and amplify the need for urgent digital transformation and efficient implementation of AI technology across all functions, especially procurement. McKinsey & Company highlights that digital procurement leaders can unlock 5–10% cost savings while improving speed and compliance. PwC points to AI-driven automation reducing manual effort and improving decision quality across finance and procurement. Deloitte emphasises that procurement must move from transactional processing, to insight-led value creation to meet modern CFO expectations. The ambition is there. The problem is structural. Procurement teams are often: Lean relative to spend under management Burdened with manual processes Operating across fragmented systems Dependent on legacy ERP architecture Even when CFO's fully support cost efficiency initiatives, procurement leaders struggle to execute because they lack manpower, clean data, optimal process and intelligent tooling. The ERP Illusion: Control Without Intelligence Multinational ERP platforms — such as SAP S/4HANA, Oracle ERP Cloud, or Microsoft Dynamics 365 — are incredibly powerful financial engines. But they are not purpose-built data driven intelligence platforms, especially for areas such as procurement. They: Capture transactions. Enforce controls. Process invoices. Store supplier records. What they do not do well is: Continuously benchmark pricing. Detect commercial leakage, proactively. Provide dynamic, AI-driven negotiation insights. Surface supplier optimisation opportunities automatically. Remove friction from Supplier relationships. Worse, these systems are extremely expensive and complex. Companies often pay for vast feature sets they never fully deploy, let alone understand. Customisation is costly. Implementation cycles are long and upgrades can be highly disruptive. As a result, procurement teams have no choice but to revert to: Excel models. Offline bid comparisons. Manual supplier evaluations. Email-driven approvals. Even pen and paper in parts of the workflow. The industry becomes digitally "enabled", but not digitally optimised. Even Major Procurement Suites Have Limitations Many of the major procurement platforms such as Coupa, SAP Ariba, and Jaggaer have advanced the market significantly. Yet challenges remain: Rigid workflows. Heavy configuration. Limited/Non existent contextual AI. Fragmented modules across sourcing, contracts, and P2P. High total cost of ownership. They digitise process, but often stop short of delivering continuous, embedded intelligence. Procurement becomes systemised, but not truly strategic. AI Changes the Equation Artificial intelligence shifts procurement from reactive administration to proactive optimisation. Instead of merely recording what has happened, AI answers: Where are we overpaying? Which suppliers present commercial risk? Which contracts contain value leakage? Where can we renegotiate based on real-time market data? Which spend categories are fragmented and unleveraged? AI can: Benchmark pricing at ...
Japan just sent a message the West has forgotten how to send. Enforce the law, defend the nation, and protect the culture. As Japanese police detain and deport foreign agitators after a historic right-wing election, global elites push something far darker. From engineered meat allergies via ticks to American politicians openly cheering chaos and intimidation. This episode connects the dots between biological control and border control, and why nationalism is roaring back across the world.
In this special emergency edition of The Right Idea, TPPF's Brian Phillips, Robert Henneke, and Mandy Drogin react to the recent wave of student walkouts protesting immigration enforcement.Hundreds of students — including middle schoolers — left campuses during school hours, with some districts allegedly facilitating or failing to stop the disruptions. Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Education Agency (TEA), and Attorney General Ken Paxton have launched investigations, threatened funding cuts, and warned of educator accountability for enabling these actions.0:00 – Intro: Massive Texas student walkouts protesting ICE1:00 – Gov. Abbott, TEA & AG response: Funding threats & investigations2:12 – Rob Henneke: First Amendment rights vs. school discipline rules4:55 – Why schools MUST enforce rules — no "protest exception"6:49 – Mandy Drogin: As a parent — terrified & furious at the dangers7:52 – Indoctrination in schools: Low civics scores & Marxist influences10:52 – What school leaders SHOULD do: Enforce consequences immediately13:11 – Kids unsupervised downtown — safety failures exposed16:47 – Abuse of power by administrators facilitating walkouts19:40 – Investigations: Holding teachers & districts accountable22:39 – Where is the line between neutrality & active support?26:09 – Planned in advance — prior warnings ignored31:02 – Consequences needed: Funding cuts & license revocations34:49 – Parents: File complaints with TEA Inspector General37:33 – Fight back: 90th Legislative Session & parent empowerment39:21 – School choice explosion — alternative to failing districts42:40 – It's not too late for parents to act & protect kids47:16 – Rob's closing: Join the parent army to retake education
'Other apps have filled in the gap,' says Julie Smith of Webster University following Australia's social media ban for kids and teens. She says it is like, 'herding cats, playing whack-a-mole,' as kids 'Down Under' figure a way around the bans. She encourages teaching kids about social media instead of banning it.
I sit down with Chris Case, a firefighter who spent 25 years in Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service before making the leap to Canada and becoming Fire Chief of Chatham-Kent in Ontario.This is not a career-timeline conversation. It is a deep exploration of leadership, identity, and the personal cost of doing complex work in complex systems.We talk about moving beyond the cookie-cutter career, the curse of competence, and what happens when professionalism becomes a golden cage. Chris shares hard-won lessons from counter-terrorism, multi-agency command, senior leadership, and governance, but also from parenting, failure, anxiety, and learning when to stop optimising everything.We explore why managers enforce rules but leaders enforce values, why undefined expectations become premeditated resentments, and why senior officers eventually trade tools for words. We talk about ambition, burnout, anger as fuel, and the danger of confusing progress with peace.This episode is for firefighters at every rank who are trying to do meaningful work without betraying themselves in the process.Connect with Chris Case HEREAccess all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HEREPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE our partners supporting this episode.GORE-TEX Professional ClothingFIRST TACTICAL- tactical gear for elite operatorsMSA The Safety CompanyJAFCOIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD Send us a textSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew
A bill to force state and local law enforcement to comply with federal immigration efforts passes out of committee. Hoosier students join nationwide walkouts to protest ICE, with the Indiana Department of Education and GOP lawmakers condemning the students. A long-time member of the Indiana GOP leaves his party and will run as an independent candidate for mayor of New Albany. Host Jill Sheridan is joined by Democrat Terri Austin, Republican Mike O'Brien, Oseye Boyd of Mirror Indy, and Ben Thorp of WFYI to debate and discuss this week's top stories.
The cabinet have agreed a complete ban on scramblers in public places. This is after the death of 16-year-old Grace Lynch in Finglas recently. The Minister for Transport, Darragh O'Brien, said the legislation will be in place in a matter of weeks. Saying we owe it to Grace and her family. But how widespread are Scramblers in communities in Dublin and how difficult will it be to enforce? Henry McKean joined Shane and Ciara.
The National Security Hour with Col. Mike and Dr. Mike – Calls grow for decisive action as unrest spreads across American cities, with claims of an organized insurrection undermining law, sovereignty, and constitutional order. The focus centers on political leadership, foreign influence, immigration, and national security, urging immediate enforcement of existing laws to preserve the republic...
The National Security Hour with Col. Mike and Dr. Mike – Calls grow for decisive action as unrest spreads across American cities, with claims of an organized insurrection undermining law, sovereignty, and constitutional order. The focus centers on political leadership, foreign influence, immigration, and national security, urging immediate enforcement of existing laws to preserve the republic...
Watch The X22 Report On Video No videos found (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:17532056201798502,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-9437-3289"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");pt> Click On Picture To See Larger PictureThe [CB] are trying to fight back, Trump continues to counter them by using tariffs. They will never learn. Blue states are feeling the economic pain, they are following the globalist plan and they will fail. Trump is changing the economic calculations. Inflation is below 1%. Trump nominates Kevin Warsh to restructure the Fed. The [DS] is panicking. They tried to trap Trump in the Epstein files, that did not work, the other part of the plan is to muddy the waters but this also failed. Trump is now preparing for mass round ups across the country. DHS is purchasing warehouses to hold the illegals. Trump is leading the [DS] down the path of no return. The insurrection is coming and Trump is preparing the counterinsurgency. Economy through this very same certification process. If, for any reason, this situation is not immediately corrected, I am going to charge Canada a 50% Tariff on any and all Aircraft sold into the United States of America. Thank you for your attention to this matter! DONALD J. TRUMP PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:18510697282300316,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-8599-9832"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs"); https://twitter.com/DC_Draino/status/2016988052317409756?s=20 like he did in my First Term. I am confident that Brett has the expertise to QUICKLY fix the long history of issues at the BLS on behalf of the American People. Brett Matsumoto is a Brilliant, Reputable, and Trusted Economist who will restore GREATNESS to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Congratulations Brett! https://twitter.com/USTradeRep/status/2017747044350280104?s=20 extensive research in the field of Economics and Finance. Kevin issued an Independent Report to the Bank of England proposing reforms in the conduct of Monetary Policy in the United Kingdom. Parliament adopted the Report’s recommendations. Kevin Warsh became the youngest Fed Governor, ever, at 35, and served as a Member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System from 2006 until 2011, as the Federal Reserve’s Representative to the Group of Twenty (G-20), and as the Board’s Emissary to the Emerging and Advanced Economies in Asia. In addition, he was Administrative Governor, managing and overseeing the Board’s operations, personnel, and financial performance. Prior to his appointment to the Board, from 2002 until 2006, Kevin served as Special Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, and Executive Secretary of the White House National Economic Council. Previously, Kevin was a member of the Mergers & Acquisitions Department at Morgan Stanley & Co., in New York, serving as Vice President and Executive Director. I have known Kevin for a long period of time, and have no doubt that he will go down as one of the GREAT Fed Chairmen, maybe the best. On top of everything else, he is “central casting,” and he will never let you down. Congratulations Kevin! PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP Warsh has compared Bitcoin favorably to gold as a “sustainable store of value,” indicating a positive view of gold’s role in the financial system. However, his nomination led to sharp declines in gold and silver prices (e.g., silver fell up to 26% in one day), as markets interpreted him as an inflation hawk who might pursue tighter monetary policy, reducing the appeal of precious metals as inflation hedges. This reaction stemmed from fears of less dovish Fed actions, which had previously driven gold’s rally amid uncertainty over Fed independence. Warsh’s broader hawkish stance on inflation aligns with “hard money” principles that could indirectly support gold, but his emphasis on shrinking the Fed’s balance sheet and normalizing policy suggests he prioritizes institutional reform over promoting gold as a standard. Is Kevin Warsh Pro-Sound Money?Yes, Warsh is a strong advocate for sound money principles, emphasizing disciplined, anti-inflationary monetary policy. He views inflation as a “monetary phenomenon” and “a choice” driven by excessive government printing and spending. As a former Fed Governor, he was often the most hawkish voice, opposing aggressive rate cuts during crises due to inflation risks. He criticizes the Fed’s “mission creep,” oversized balance sheet, and reliance on quantitative easing (QE), arguing these enable fiscal irresponsibility and distort markets. Warsh calls for “regime change” at the Fed, shifting away from Keynesian models toward rules-based policy that incorporates money supply considerations and reduces interventionism. He stresses credibility, clear rules, and accountability to maintain sound money. In a 2025 Hoover Institution paper, he advocated scrutinizing monetary policy under a framework that could include constitutional measures for prosperity and idea diffusion. Warsh has been vocal against Powell’s leadership, echoing Trump’s frustrations with high interest rates and calling for “regime change” at the Fed. He has moderated his hawkish stance to support lower rates, arguing AI-driven productivity allows growth without inflation. Credibility and Market Reassurance: Warsh is seen as a “traditional” pick with Fed experience, reassuring investors amid fears of a loyalist appointment that could undermine independence. Trump highlighted Warsh’s ability to deliver lower rates and growth, though some economists note Warsh’s independence could lead to tensions if he prioritizes data over demands. Analysts suggest the pick balances Trump’s desire for cuts with a credible figure. Political/Rights https://twitter.com/EndWokeness/status/2017774819823984722?s=20 Trump Administration Begins Suing Illegal Migrants Who Have Not Self-Deported The Trump administration has begun suing individual illegal migrants for ignoring removal orders and refusing to self-deport back to their home countries, a report says. The administration has filed suit against an illegal migrant living in Virginia, and is seeking $941,114 plus interest, alleging that Marta Alicia Ramirez Veliz has remained in the country despite being told her request for admittance was rejected by a Justice Department appeals panel in 2022, Politico reported. The filing notes that Veliz has refused to pay a $998 per-day fine for the 943 days since she was told to return to her home country, and reveals that Immigration and Customs Enforcement sent her an official notice of her total fine in April. The lawsuit describes Veliz as “an individual and noncitizen residing in Chesterfield County, Virginia,” and does not identify her nationality. source: breitbart.com https://twitter.com/KanekoaTheGreat/status/2017404446230323358?s=20 BREAKING: Disturbing photos in the Epstein files appear to show Prince Andrew on all fours over a woman lying on the ground. https://twitter.com/HansMahncke/status/2017792445979791448?s=20 for everyone, or is connected through some opaque web of professional and personal ties. A supposedly random figure from the squalor of Uganda rises all the way to mayor of New York, only for it to later emerge that his mother is deeply embedded in elite circles. The same pattern shows up again and again. James Comey's daughter just happened to be a lead federal prosecutor on the Epstein case. The judge who presided over the trial of Hillary Clinton's lawyer, the one who helped seed the Russiagate hoax, is married to Lisa Page's lawyer. Page, of course, was involved with Peter Strzok, who is one of the central figures in that same hoax. And to complete the circle, Merrick Garland officiated their wedding. None of this requires conspiracy theories. It requires only acknowledging how small, closed, and self-protecting these elite worlds are. Fix elite incestuousness, and a lot of other problems will disappear on their own. https://twitter.com/KanekoaTheGreat/status/2017734119334232544?s=20 https://twitter.com/KanekoaTheGreat/status/2017474860700877105?s=20 https://twitter.com/CynicalPublius/status/2017762585878069630?s=20 https://twitter.com/KanekoaTheGreat/status/2017694490614763591?s=20 written from Nikolic's perspective. At the time, Nikolic was Gates's top scientific investment advisor. The emails suggest Gates was firing Nikolic in response to marital problems with Melinda. In June 2013, Nikolic emailed Gates and asked if he wanted to go to the “legendary Crazy Horse in Paris” an erotic show, while they were in France. Gates declined, saying he would be too tired and didn't want to take the risk, adding that he might have done it when he was younger. On July 1, 2013, Gates emailed Nikolic: “We should meet on Wednesday to discuss your job. There is going to have to be a transition. I feel very bad about it but I don’t see a way around it.” Nikolic shared these emails with Epstein. Epstein later commented on the Paris erotic show email, writing: “This is pretty bad and might have been the cause of her bad mail in paris.”—apparently referring to Melinda. Nikolic appeared unhappy about being fired while potentially being used as a scapegoat, and he sought greater financial compensation as he prepared to leave and launch his own investment fund. In these emails, Epstein—writing as Nikolic—references alleged knowledge of Gates's extramarital affairs, STDs allegedly contracted from Russian women, and drug use as justification for why Nikolic deserved more money. Taken together, it appears Jeffrey Epstein was drafting or shaping a message for Boris Nikolic that effectively functioned as blackmail, pressuring Bill Gates for financial compensation. It remains unclear whether Nikolic ultimately sent these messages to Gates. However, later emails suggest Gates helped Nikolic launch his next investment fund and maintained a working relationship with him afterward. Epstein later listed Nikolic as a backup executor of his will, indicating the two were close confidants. https://twitter.com/Breaking911/status/2017769194159210784?s=20 Billionaire Reid Hoffman, Who Bankrolled the E. Jean Carroll Lawsuit Against Trump, Is Featured Extensively in the New Epstein Files, Visiting Zorro Ranch and Pedophile Island Hoffman went to the Island. A man who used his fortune to bankroll a lawsuit against President Donald J. Trump is now featured extensively in the new DOJ-released Jeffrey Epstein documents. The three and a half million documents from the latest – and apparently last – have been released by the DOJ following the approval of the House Resolution 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Documents from this massive release show the close ties between LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman and the late pedophile. The pair ‘discusses visits to Epstein's infamous private island, his New Mexico ranch, and his New York apartment'. The New York Post reported: “'Reid will spend the night at 71st', according to one email from Hoffman's team included in the latest Justice Department dump of Epstein files, in reference to his Upper East Side townhouse.” A 2014 memo states that Epstein hosted will have (venture capitalist) Joi Ito and Reid Hoffman on the infamous Zorro Ranch for a weekend. “An email Epstein penned to his assistant Saida Sapieva under the heading ‘Trip to the Island' states: ‘Reid will take a Virgin America Flight from SFO to Fort Lauderdale, departing at 8:20 am, landing at 4:40 pm'. In 2023, Hoffman visited to Epstein's former Caribbean private island, Little St. James, also known as ‘pedophile island', The Post previously reported.” Source: thegatewaypundit.com https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/2017106848311366064?s=20 https://twitter.com/MikeBenzCyber/status/2017789344103145647?s=20 https://twitter.com/MikeBenzCyber/status/2017772724093849926?s=20 https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/2017930408650772495?s=20 https://twitter.com/Cernovich/status/2017329765863039432?s=20 Israel had Trump by the balls so much that… Epstein was arrested? Ghislaine Maxwell was arrested? Jean Luc Brunel was arrested? Les Wexner stepped down? NXIVM sex cult ended? And now we're getting those files? These people don't think very hard https://twitter.com/JD_Cashless/status/2017349780922408973?s=20 https://twitter.com/TaraBunner2/status/2017619821634977889?s=20 https://twitter.com/Jordan_Sather_/status/2017399510809645263?s=20 https://twitter.com/TheStormRedux/status/2017789280693735748?s=20 politically. “I didn't see it myself but I was told by some very important people that not only does it absolve me, it's the opposite of what people were hoping – you know, the radical left. Wolff, who's a 3rd rate writer, was conspiring with Jeffrey Epstein to hurt me politically or otherwise…” Don't fall for all the clickbait doomers pushing the anti-Trump narratives. It's all bullshit. Lots of people not looking good though after today's release. Will be interesting to see how this plays out. To muddy the waters is an idiom that means to make a situation, issue, or discussion more confusing, unclear, or complicated—often deliberately. For example: “The politician’s vague statements only muddied the waters during the debate.” It originates from the idea of stirring up mud in water, making it murky and hard to see through. DOGE Geopolitical War/Peace Iran Hits Back At EU: Designates European Armies As ‘Terrorist Entities’ Iran is saying two can play at the West’s game: on Friday the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council blasted the EU’s decision to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a “terrorist organization,” warning that Europe’s own militaries would now be viewed through the same lens. “The European Union certainly knows that… the armies of countries that have participated in the European Union’s recent resolution against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps are considered terrorist entities,” Ali Larijani wrote in a post on X. He added bluntly: “Therefore, the consequences of that shall be borne by the European countries that undertook such an action.” However, there’s probably nothing in the way of European military assets for the Islamic Republic to sanction, so this ‘action’ by Tehran will remain largely symbolic. Iran does have assets held in various places of Europe though. EU foreign ministers agreed on Thursday to formally classify the IRGC as a “terrorist organization” and urged member states to implement the designation without delay – after a few longtime holdouts flipped. source: zerohedge.com [DS] Agenda https://twitter.com/rhodeislander/status/2017361344018739231?s=20 https://twitter.com/nicksortor/status/2017331445195211254?s=20 at Place of Worship COUNT 2: 18 U.S.C. § 248(a) (b), § §2(a) – FACE Act: Injure, Intimidate, and Interfere with Exercise of Right of Religious Freedom at a Place of Worship. Full indictment in replies. https://twitter.com/amuse/status/2017755569097003394?s=20 https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2017426372860190991?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2017426372860190991%7Ctwgr%5Efafd5c6b893c0c4815868b0fd8490482712f780e%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.breitbart.com%2Ft%2Fassets%2Fhtml%2Ftweet-5.html2017426372860190991 Maxine Waters Incites Violent Leftist Rioters in Los Angeles – Threatens ICE, “We're Going to Fight You Every Inch of the Way” (VIDEOS) Far-left Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA) was in Los Angeles on Friday, inciting her radical left followers to riot against law enforcement before several were arrested. Rioters were seen hurling objects at shielded federal agents who pushed back with pepper balls and nonlethal munitions. Via ABC 7: Anti-ICE Rioters Clash with Federal Agents and Local Police Outside Los Angeles ICE Facility Eventually, the rioters moved a dumpster toward the entrance of the ICE detention facility and set it ablaze. Over 100 Los Angeles Police officers reportedly responded in riot gear to quell the violence. Multiple videos circulating on social media show Maxine Waters at the front lines of the riot as leftists were told to disperse for surrounding the federal building, trespassing on federal property, and later assaulting federal officers. After pepper spray was deployed, Waters returned to the front of the riot with a mask and continued leading the insurrection. Waters was seen pulling up to the scene early in the day in a black SUV before stepping out to rally her troops, flailing her arms and leading chants of “ICE Out of LA.” Source: thegatewaypundit.com https://twitter.com/DOGEai_tx/status/2017736355665641700?s=20 Martinez's gang alliance pitch isn't just reckless; it's a calculated distraction from ICE's indiscriminate sweeps that tear families apart over paperwork. Federal law requires deportation for specific crimes, yet bureaucrats weaponize broad mandates to meet quotas. The solution? Enforce existing laws precisely, stop manufacturing crises, and end the performative politics that put both officers and communities at risk. President Trump's Plan https://twitter.com/EricLDaugh/status/2017769322723082564?s=20 constitutional dike, It is so ORDERED” – “Feb. 31” doesn’t exist – LinkedIn shows he liked a TDS post about ICE today – Includes a photo of the kid in the order – Unprofessionally antagonistic language WTF?! This is a JUDGE?! @ElonMusk and @NayibBukele were right all along. We can’t have a saved republic until we mass impeach the courts. H/t @BillMelugin_ https://twitter.com/ElectionWiz/status/2017574838143959310?s=20 https://twitter.com/nicksortor/status/2017636699157811696?s=20 one of the safest cities in America – Likewise, numerous other once very dangerous cities! Republicans, don't let these Crooked Democrats, who are stealing Billions of Dollars from Minnesota, and other Cities and States from all over the Country, push you around. They are using this aggressive protest SCAM to obfuscate, camouflage, and hide their CRIMINAL ACTS of theft and insurrection. They should all be in jail. I was elected on Strong Borders, and Law and Order, among many other things. Thank you to Secretary Kristi Noem. Remember, ELECTIONS HAVE CONSEQUENCES!!! PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP Federal Government Property. There will be no spitting in the faces of our Officers, there will be no punching or kicking the headlights of our cars, and there will be no rock or brick throwing at our vehicles, or at our Patriot Warriors. If there is, those people will suffer an equal, or more, consequence. In the meantime, by copy of this Statement, I am informing Local Governments, as I did in Los Angeles when they were rioting at the end of the Biden Term, that you must protect your own State and Local Property. In addition, it is your obligation to also protect our Federal Property, Buildings, Parks, and everything else. We are there to protect Federal Property, only as a back up, in that it is Local and State Responsibility to do so. Last night in Eugene, Oregon, these criminals broke into a Federal Building, and did great damage, also scaring and harassing the hardworking employees. Local Police did nothing in order to stop it. We will not let that happen anymore! If Local Governments are unable to handle the Insurrectionists, Agitators, and Anarchists, we will immediately go to the location where such help is requested, and take care of the situation very easily and methodically, just as we did the Los Angeles Riots one year ago, where the Police Chief said that, “We couldn't have done it without the help of the Federal Government.” Therefore, to all complaining Local Governments, Governors, and Mayors, let us know when you are ready, and we will be there — But, before we do so, you must use the word, “PLEASE.” Remember that I stated, in the strongest of language, to BEWARE — ICE, Border Patrol or, if necessary, our Military, will be extremely powerful and tough in the protection of our Federal Property. We will not allow our Courthouses, Federal Buildings, or anything else under our protection, to be damaged in any way, shape, or form. I was elected on a Policy of Border Control (which has now been perfected!), National Security, and LAW AND ORDER — That's what America wants, and that's what America is getting! Thank you for your attention to this matter. PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP he will use DHS/ICE and, if necessary, the US MIL to protect federal property. It sounds like Trump knows something is coming. It sounds like the Dems want DHS/ICE to get caught up in policing these riots, hoping more of their deranged followers take it too far and get shot. Trump is instead going to hold and force local Democrat politicians to police their own riots, or agree to work with him. And if the Dems choose to not police these riots, they will force Trump to use the US MIL to suppress the chaos. https://twitter.com/unseen1_unseen/status/2017334056292143173?s=20 https://twitter.com/StephenM/status/2017585812599087241?s=20 EXCLUSIVE: Atlanta Field Office Special Agent in Charge Allegedly Removed For Slow-Walking Election Fraud Investigation Reports are emerging on social media that Paul Brown, the FBI Special Agent in Charge at the Atlanta Field Office, was “forced out of that job earlier this month,” according to MSNOW's Ken Dilanian. According to MSNOW, Brown “was forced out this month after questioning the Justice Department's renewed push to probe Fulton County's role in the 2020 election” after “expressing concern” about “unsubstantiated allegations of voter fraud” in Fulton County. Source: thegatewaypundit.com https://twitter.com/TheStormRedux/status/2017632517596045581?s=20 of evidence that the judge authorized us to collect. And what we're gonna do next is go through the voluminous amounts of information collected and continue our investigation. At this point there's not much more I can say publicly because we have to go through a lot more material. But it was predicated on a finding of probable cause by a judge in Georgia.” Time for people to go to jail! We all watched it stolen in real time, and we're all still pissed off about it! https://twitter.com/TheStormRedux/status/2017201516768026738?s=20 the election safe, and she's done a very good job. And as you know, they got into the votes. You've got a signed judges order in Georgia and you're gonna see some interesting things happening.” We've waited a long time for this. Let's get it. https://twitter.com/JoeLang51440671/status/2017668286196932654?s=20 https://twitter.com/Rasmussen_Poll/status/2017631484908024035?s=20 (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:13499335648425062,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-7164-1323"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="//cdn2.customads.co/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");
LAPD Chief says he won't enforce the California mask ban, he doesn't think it was well thought out. Visit the Howie Carr Radio Network website to access columns, podcasts, and other exclusive content.
Federal agents arrest former CNN anchor Don Lemon in LA. The LAPD will not enforce mask bans for federal agents. Murders in the city of LA are at their lowest levels in nearly six decades. Plus, more from Morning Edition. Support The L.A. Report by donating at LAist.com/join and by visiting https://laist.comSupport the show: https://laist.com
Rainforest enables vertical software companies to embed payment processing directly into their platforms - solving the complexity that previously forced software companies to direct customers to separate banks or resellers for payment processing. Founded by Joshua Silver, who spent nearly 20 years in payments starting with PatientCo (a healthcare billing company that scaled to process billions for major healthcare organizations), Rainforest now serves as the enabling layer for thousands of vertical software companies. In this episode of BUILDERS, Joshua shares the unconventional GTM decisions that shaped Rainforest's trajectory: from making contracts a product feature to implementing a zero bugs policy, and why he measures podcast success by qualified lead conversion rather than download counts. Topics Discussed: The embedded payments opportunity: why software companies stopped directing customers to banks Building in highly regulated environments where traditional MVP approaches fail The extended foundation-building phase required before processing the first payment Transitioning from 2.5-3 years of founder-led sales to a scalable GTM motion Using contract terms as competitive differentiation rather than negotiation leverage Implementing a zero bugs policy and its impact on service costs and retention Building thought leadership through the Payment Strategy Show and Vertex conference Lead quality metrics over vanity metrics for content investments GTM Lessons For B2B Founders: Hire from the industry and invest disproportionately in technical onboarding: Rainforest maintains one of the highest concentrations of payments talent on a percentage basis—nearly everyone has worked in payments or payments-adjacent roles. But hiring isn't enough. Joshua obsesses over training because in complex sales, prospects ask detailed technical questions and "the moment that you give bad answers or don't know your stuff, they're going to detect that and that's going to detract a lot from the trust." When selling technical infrastructure, surface-level product knowledge kills deals. Every touchpoint—engineers, support, account execs—must understand not just how the product works, but why it works that way. Engineer your standard contract to eliminate negotiation cycles: Joshua inverted conventional wisdom by making Rainforest's standard contract "overly favorable to the client"—no hidden terms, no punitive clauses, no exclusivity provisions. The result: "We don't have to spend a lot of legal time going back and forth. We don't have to invest a lot of time and by the way, burning a lot of goodwill too in contract negotiations." Prospects consistently report the legal process was shockingly easy compared to competitors. This isn't about being naive—it's strategic capital allocation. Joshua's philosophy: "Pick the fights that really matter and everything else is just rounding." Time spent in legal negotiations is wasted time that could be spent onboarding customers. Embed sales capabilities into your customer success function: Rainforest trains their CS team on negotiation tactics, value selling, and objection handling—competencies rarely developed in post-sale teams. Joshua noted the primary goal is customer assistance, but growth is an underlying objective. This isn't about making CS "do sales"—it's about equipping them to have commercial conversations when customers naturally express expansion interest. The key enabler: strong product-market fit means "we don't have to sell it that much. It's really a conversation about solutioning." Enforce a zero bugs backlog in high-stakes environments: Joshua's unofficial core value—"don't f with the money"—manifests in their zero bugs policy. It's not that they never create bugs; it's that "we don't tolerate living with them. We don't have a backlog of bugs to fix." When a bug is validated, they fix it immediately. His head of engineering recently discussed this on a podcast because people find it radical. The payoff: "When you have a higher quality product, you don't have to invest as much in service because the product just works and you have naturally happy customers." For infrastructure products where errors cascade into customer incidents, the accumulated cost of technical debt vastly exceeds the upfront investment in quality. Qualify content success by whether it's converting your ICP: Joshua rejects vanity metrics entirely. When asked about podcast ROI, he said: "I'd rather have 100 highly qualified listeners that are great targets for us than have 100,000 listeners and not have 100 qualified ones." They track this rigorously—every inbound lead is asked how they discovered Rainforest, and an increasing percentage cite the podcast. Prospects explicitly say "we heard the podcast and nobody else is putting this content out there." The metric isn't downloads; it's whether qualified buyers are self-identifying through your content and entering sales conversations pre-educated and pre-sold. Build ecosystem assets without demanding immediate attribution: Rainforest launched Vertex—a curated conference for vertical software founders and operators—that explicitly isn't a Rainforest sales event or user conference. Joshua doesn't track lead conversion from the conference: "That's not one of the key metrics. We actually look at NPS score as one of the key metrics. Did people find value in the conference?" They're running it twice this year because attendees report it's the highest-quality conference they attend annually. His philosophy: "Go create value, legitimate, genuine value for the ecosystem and they will come to us." They deliberately limit attendance to several hundred and choose venues that physically can't accommodate massive scale—maintaining intimacy as a forcing function against growth-for-growth's-sake. Plan for extended pre-market build phases in regulated industries: Joshua's advice for payments founders: "Make sure you know what you're getting into. It's a big build and there's very low tolerance for misses." Before processing their first payment, Rainforest had to achieve PCI compliance, SOC2 compliance, and implement comprehensive security infrastructure. Only then could they begin customer development with close network contacts. He contrasts this with his standard founder advice: build an MVP, sell quickly, get feedback, iterate. In payments, that playbook doesn't work—"you actually have to build so much of the foundation first just to process your very first payment." Founders in regulated spaces need patient capital and realistic timelines that acknowledge compliance infrastructure isn't optional. Institutionalize "ruthlessly simplify" as an operating principle: One of Rainforest's core values is ruthless simplification, which Joshua applies to "the legal contract, the engineering documentation, anything." He asks his team repeatedly when reviewing anything: "Can we simplify it? Can we simplify it? Can we simplify it?" The output quality dramatically improves. He references the Tim Ferriss framing: "What would this look like if it were simple?" When applied consistently, it cuts approximately 50% from plans, strategies, and deliverables—even when the creator thought they were already building simply. // Sponsors: Front Lines — We help B2B tech companies launch, manage, and grow podcasts that drive demand, awareness, and thought leadership. www.FrontLines.io The Global Talent Co. — We help tech startups find, vet, hire, pay, and retain amazing marketing talent that costs 50-70% less than the US & Europe. www.GlobalTalent.co // Don't Miss: New Podcast Series — How I Hire Senior GTM leaders share the tactical hiring frameworks they use to build winning revenue teams. Hosted by Andy Mowat, who scaled 4 unicorns from $10M to $100M+ ARR and launched Whispered to help executives find their next role. Subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/53yCHlPfLSMFimtv0riPyM
Despite having a "nice" conversation with President Trump, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, says he will not enforce federal immigration law. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
We have by now seen the murders of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. We have seen the way communities have been torn apart. We have seen how 'law enforcement' in the USA has so often been a blanket term to explain away systemic racism and prejudice. The ICE has now brought all of those facts out into the open and people are waking up to what African-American communities have known for centuries – a badge does not mean justice and if definitely doesn't award fair treatment under the law. People watching from around the world need to ensure that nothing like ICE ever comes to our communities. Not the mask wearing thugs, the badges with impunity nor the politicians who lie to defend these atrocities.I welcome opinions of every kind so please come and find me on social media at:Instagram: TwoandaMicTwitter: TwoandaMic1TikTok: Twoandamic2Should I really have to ask?
Confirm uses organizational network analysis to surface hidden high performers and toxic actors that traditional performance reviews miss - identifying the quiet contributors everyone relies on and the problematic employees who manage up effectively. In this episode of BUILDERS, I sat down with David Murray, Cofounder & CEO of Confirm, to dissect their most painful go-to-market lessons. David shares why leading with methodology superiority torpedoed their early sales, the specific discovery framework that flipped their win rate, and how they segment the four distinct HR buying motions that require completely different sales approaches. Topics Discussed: Why traditional performance reviews are 60% manager bias according to research by Maynard Goff How organizational network analysis identifies introverted high performers and manages-up toxic actors The catastrophic early GTM mistake: positioning against existing processes Discovery frameworks for conservative buyers in compliance-heavy functions Talk ratio targets and silence techniques from clinical psychology applied to enterprise sales Channel testing methodology that identified LinkedIn ads as their primary acquisition driver The four-quadrant framework for HR sales: CHRO vs line manager, company-wide vs HR-only tools Messaging strategies that balance shock factor with substantive education GTM Lessons For B2B Founders: Discovery trumps differentiation in category creation: Confirm's design partner had promoted toxic employees and lost quiet high performers in the same cycle—a perfect case study for their ONA methodology. But when they pitched other HR leaders with "here's why your approach is broken," they hit walls. The shift: stop selling methodology, start diagnosing pain. Reference what you've observed at similar companies—"Some folks at your size tell us they struggle with X, is that true for you?"—then let prospects surface their version of the problem. Only after they've articulated their pain do you map your differentiated approach to their specific context. Target buyer timing, not just buyer titles: Confirm identified a specific trigger: HR leaders in their first 1-2 months at a new company. These leaders are hired to make change and need early wins. The outreach question: "How are you looking to make your mark?" This surfaces whether they're hungry for innovation or managing political capital. A newly hired CHRO has different motivations than a 5-year veteran protecting their process choices. Map your outreach to career timing, not just seniority. Enforce 50/30/20 talk ratios in discovery: David's target: prospects speak 60-80% of discovery calls, with 50% being acceptable. If you're talking more than half the time, you're pitching, not discovering. The clinical psychology technique: positive encouragers ("yeah," "huh") plus deliberate silence after open-ended questions. Prospects will fill silence with the real issues—budget constraints, political dynamics, past vendor failures. This intel is gold for multi-threading and objection handling later. Test channel-message fit with minimal spend: Confirm's approach: "do everything a little bit and see what sticks." They found LinkedIn ads with precise targeting (title, company size, recent job changes) delivered qualified pipeline cost-effectively, while other channels didn't. The framework: allocate 10-15% of budget across 5-6 channels for 60 days, measure cost-per-qualified-meeting, then concentrate spend. Plan for 3-6 month creative refresh cycles as audiences develop ad fatigue—this isn't set-and-forget. Map your product to the HR buying matrix: David identifies four distinct quadrants: (1) CHRO buyer, company-wide deployment = traditional enterprise sale, 6-18 month cycles, heavy multi-threading required; (2) CHRO buyer, HR-only tool = shorter cycles but still executive selling; (3) Line manager buyer, company-wide = requires bottom-up adoption mechanics; (4) Line manager buyer, HR-only = SMB-style transactional sale. Confirm operates in quadrant 1—the longest, most complex sale. Most founders don't explicitly map which quadrant they're in, leading to mismatched sales motions and blown forecasts. Use provocative messaging with technical substance: "One-click performance reviews" generated meetings because it triggered both excitement (managers hate writing reviews) and concern (is AI replacing human judgment?). The key: the shock factor gets the meeting, but you need depth on the call. Confirm's explanation: the AI aggregates data from Asana, Jira, OKRs, peer feedback, and self-reflections to reduce recency bias, then generates a draft managers edit. The dystopian concern becomes a feature when you explain the data anchoring. Surface-level shock without technical credibility burns trust. Adjust for organizational risk tolerance by function: HR and healthcare share conservative buying cultures due to compliance, documentation, and legal requirements. David contrasts this with selling to CTOs or engineers who "kick tires and want to break things." This affects everything: longer evaluation cycles, more stakeholders in legal/compliance, emphasis on security and data handling, reference checks weighted heavily. If you're selling to risk-averse functions, adjust your content (white papers, compliance documentation), your timeline expectations, and your change management positioning. Reframe education as extraction, not instruction: David's mental model shift: "I need to learn from them" replaced "I need to educate them." In practice: "I've heard from others that calibration meetings consume 10+ hours per cycle with unclear outcomes. They tried approaches like forced ranking or manager-only decisions. Have you experimented with either?" This positions you as a pattern-matcher across their peer group, not a lecturer. They become receptive to alternatives because you've demonstrated you understand their world through other customers' experiences. // Sponsors: Front Lines — We help B2B tech companies launch, manage, and grow podcasts that drive demand, awareness, and thought leadership. www.FrontLines.io The Global Talent Co. — We help tech startups find, vet, hire, pay, and retain amazing marketing talent that costs 50-70% less than the US & Europe. www.GlobalTalent.co // Don't Miss: New Podcast Series — How I Hire Senior GTM leaders share the tactical hiring frameworks they use to build winning revenue teams. Hosted by Andy Mowat, who scaled 4 unicorns from $10M to $100M+ ARR and launched Whispered to help executives find their next role. Subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/53yCHlPfLSMFimtv0riPyM
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Beyond the Horizon, we sit down with Maj. Erik Minshall, director of inspections at the 178th Wing, and Tech. Sgt. Mark Staten, a security forces specialist assigned the the 178th Security Forces Squadron, to discuss why it's important to enforce standards as one of the Ohio Adjutant General's 19 Fundamentals for the Soldiers and Airmen of the Ohio National Guard.You can connect with us on: Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/178WingInstagram: http://instagram.com/178th_wingYou can write to us at: beyondthehorizonpodcast@gmail.com
LISTEN and SUBSCRIBE on:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/watchdog-on-wall-street-with-chris-markowski/id570687608 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2PtgPvJvqc2gkpGIkNMR5i WATCH and SUBSCRIBE on:https://www.youtube.com/@WatchdogOnWallstreet/featured Waste and immigration go hand in hand—and pretending otherwise is how we ended up here. This isn't about hating immigrants or cheering heavy-handed enforcement. In fact, Chris doesn't like the optics of masked ICE agents or the chaos we're seeing play out. There was a better way to handle this, long before it reached this point.The truth is simple: incentives matter. If you build a massive welfare state, hand out benefits, provide free healthcare, housing, and allow illegal work, people will come. That's not ideology—that's human nature. Eliminate the incentives, and illegal immigration collapses overnight.Billions of dollars in taxpayer money are flowing through refugee assistance, rental programs, NGOs, and government agencies—with officials admitting they don't even know where much of it's going. That's not compassion; that's waste, grift, and failure.You want to fix immigration? Start with this rule: if you come here illegally, you get nothing. No handouts. No benefits. No taxpayer-funded hotels. Enforce that, cut the waste, and the magnet disappears.We can't afford this system—and it's not working.
Guest: Gregory Copley. Following the arrest of Maduro, Venezuela is controlled by four competing "crime families." Copley notes the absence of a clear U.S. plan for citizens facing food and medical insecurity. The U.S. seeks to enforce an oil embargo against Cuba, which is currently suffering from infrastructure collapse and electric grid failures.1902 CARACAS
KMOX Legal Analyst Brad Young, a partner at Harris, Young and Kayser, joins Megan Lynch. They discuss push back from states surrounding ICE enforcement, and monkeys on the loose.
You signed the divorce agreement. You thought it was over. But for many people, the real problems begin after the ink dries, when they discover that what they negotiated is not actually enforceable. In this essential episode of Divorce & Beyond, Susan Guthrie is joined by Kelly Lise Murray, a nationally recognized legal scholar whose work focuses on what happens when divorce settlements fall apart in real life, particularly in cases involving homes, mortgages, retirement assets, and complex property divisions. This conversation is especially important during divorce season, when many listeners are early in the process and assuming that reaching agreement automatically means protection. It does not. What You'll Learn Why a signed divorce agreement does not guarantee you will receive what you were promised How enforcement failures leave people owed money or assets they never receive Why homes and retirement accounts are the highest-risk areas in divorce settlements How missing deadlines and contingencies quietly undermine agreements The questions you should ask your lawyer before signing anything About the Guest Prof. Kelly Murray, J.D. is a legal scholar, former law professor, and serial entrepreneur advancing Realty Asset Dispute Resolution nationwide. She earned her undergraduate degree Phi Beta Kappa from Stanford University and her law degree cum laude from Harvard Law School, and served for 18 years as faculty at a Top 20 U.S. law school. Kelly is the Lead Investigator and Faculty Member for the National Family Court Project on Housing and Financial Justice, where her work focuses on preserving homeownership eligibility and financial stability in family disputes, including divorce, trusts, elder law, and probate matters. Her expertise is grounded in real litigated cases involving enforcement failures, not theory. She is also the host of the Wealth Litigated Podcast. Blog Article + Free Resource To help you go deeper, Susan has written a companion blog article for this episode:
PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY: Rebecca Grant evaluates Canada's role as a NATO ally in the Arctic, balancing domestic responsibilities with North American defense. While the US lacks sufficient icebreakers to enforce claims, relations remain strong despite minor friction, though care is needed to avoid inadvertently pushing Canada closer to China.1925 GREENLAND
In this episode of Design Business Freedom, Melissa Galt - interior designer, firm owner, and industry veteran of nearly 30 years - details the contract clauses interior designers secretly wish they could include, and what those wishes reveal about where your agreement needs to be stronger. From unpaid redesigns and client indecision to boundary violations, scope creep, and emotional labor, these real-world scenarios are costing interior design firms time, profit, and peace of mind. Melissa walks through the professional contract language and structural fixes that protect designers while elevating client experience, without sounding harsh or unapproachable. This episode is especially for established interior designers and design firm principals generating $200K+ annually who are ready to lead with authority, protect their expertise, and stop absorbing stress that doesn't belong to them. You'll learn how to: (03:09) Prevent endless revisions and unpaid labor (04:25) Maintain design authority with high-end clients (06:22) Enforce communication boundaries with trades and clients (10:45) Stop client-created emergencies and urgency (18:35) Strengthen your interior design agreement as your business grows Your contract doesn't just protect you—it teaches clients how to treat you. If you're ready to stop hoping for better behavior and start designing better boundaries, this episode will change how you think about your interior design agreement forever. Connect with Melissa Instagram Facebook Linkedin Website
COVID-19 AND THE EMPOWERMENT OF UNELECTED BUREAUCRATS Colleague Victor Davis Hanson. Hanson asserts that the COVID-19 pandemic empowered unelected bureaucrats to enforce lockdowns that disproportionately crushed the middle class while enriching large corporations and the "Zoom class." He claims the scientific consensus was manipulated to protect China regarding the virus's origins and that early dissenters who questioned the efficacy of lockdowns and masks have since been vindicated. The response highlighted a deep divide between the "essential" working class and the insulated elites who managed the crisis from safety. NUMBER 8
Bo and Beth welcome Cyber Security Expert Theresa Payton to get her thoughts on the newest form of "slop" as well as Malaysia's new social media restrictions for children. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Most men obsess over goals - the outcomes, the achievements, the shiny targets. But goals don't build men. Standards do. In today's Field Notes, Ryan breaks down why standards define your identity, how they outperform goals in every way, and why your life only changes when you elevate the rules you live by. He shares powerful examples, including recovering from a major injury, why men fail when they rely on motivation, and how to build standards that make you unshakable. Ryan also outlines a four-step framework to reset your identity, eliminate weak standards, and cement the behaviors that transform your life. If you want 2026 to be different, this episode explains exactly where to start. Key Takeaways Goals are emotionally dependent, standards are identity-based. Standards keep you anchored in the present - goals keep you trapped in the future. Goals collapse under adversity; standards strengthen you because they're non-negotiable. A man becomes powerful when he lives by a code with zero negotiation. Your life changes when your identity upgrades, not when your goals get bigger. Four-step framework to build standards that stick: -Identify the man you refuse to be. -Build non-negotiables in all four quadrants (Calibration, Connection, Condition, Contribution). -Build accountability. -Enforce consequences when you violate your own standards. 00:00 - Introduction 00:09 - Why Most Men Get Goals Backwards 01:20 - Goals Don't Build Men — Standards Do 02:33 - Examples of Weak vs. Strong Standards 04:34 - Ryan's Pec Tear: Standards in Adversity 06:24 - A Man Rises or Falls to His Standards 07:50 - Why Goals Fail Men 09:33 - How Goals Delay Action and Keep Men Stuck 11:23 - Goals Collapse Under Stress 12:57 - Standards Create Structure and Strength 14:38 - How Standards Transform a Man 16:10 - Standards Prevent Moral Drift 17:32 - Building Trust Through Consistency 18:57 - Standards Make Men Anti-Fragile 21:03 - Stop Waiting for "All Green Lights" 22:43 - Identity Before Action 23:28 - Fast Progress Comes From Identity Shifts 24:26 - The "Light Yourself on Fire" Lesson 25:14 - Reverse Engineering Goals Into Standards 25:57 - Step 1: Identify the Man You Refuse to Be 27:38 - Making Weak Behaviors Repulsive 29:31 - Step 2: Non-Negotiables in the Four Quadrants 31:32 - Step 3: Accountability 33:00 - Step 4: Enforce Consequences 33:42 - Final Challenge: Raise Your Standards 35:45 - Iron Council Promotion 36:33 - Preview Call Details Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready
A “world-leading” social media ban has been enforced by the Australian government, to prevent under-16s from accessing social media sites, including Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube. Platforms that do not comply risk fines of up to $49.5m.Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the move as "the day when Australian families are taking back power from these big tech companies". The ban has garnered worldwide attention, with several nations indicating they will adopt a ban of their own, including Malaysia, Denmark and Norway.But could similar legislation be introduced in the UK? We're joined by Daisy Greenwell - founder of Smartphone Free Childhood, a movement of families standing together to delay smartphones and social media - to discuss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1. European Union vs. Elon Musk and Free Speech The EU fined Elon Musk’s platform X (formerly Twitter) $140 million under the Digital Services Act (DSA) for failing to comply with transparency and moderation requirements. Ben and the Senator argue this is an attack on free speech, claiming the EU wants to impose censorship globally, including on American platforms. They highlight a letter from the EU in August 2024 urging Musk to censor content related to Donald Trump’s interview, framing it as an attempt to silence political discourse. The discussion emphasizes the contrast between U.S. First Amendment protections and Europe’s regulatory approach, warning of potential ripple effects on American free speech. There’s a call for the Trump administration to retaliate with sanctions against the EU, such as tariffs, to prevent foreign influence on U.S. speech norms. 2. Tucker Carlson’s Ties to Qatar Tucker Carlson’s visit to Qatar, where he interviewed the Prime Minister during the Doha Forum. Ben and Senator Cruz criticize Carlson for allegedly failing to ask tough questions about Qatar’s: Support for Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood. Funding of anti-American and anti-Semitic propaganda, including protests on U.S. campuses. Lobbying efforts in Washington and influence campaigns targeting conservative figures. Restrictive policies on women’s rights. They express concern over Carlson reportedly buying property in Qatar, framing it as aligning with a regime hostile to U.S. interests. The commentary portrays Carlson as sympathetic to authoritarian leaders (similar to his interviews with Putin and Iran’s president), undermining American values and Trump’s foreign policy. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Australia's underage social media ban hailed as an example for the world; A Muslim civil rights group branded a foreign terrorist organisation in the United States; Pat Cummins back in Australia's squad for the Ashes.
Clark County Today Editor Ken Vance responds to recent ICE activity in Clark County and a viral cell phone video of an arrest in Vancouver. Citing statements from local police, federal officials, and those close to the individuals detained, he argues that enforcing immigration laws is not an act of racism, supports deportation for those in the country illegally, and urges local law enforcement agencies to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-i-dont-understand-how-it-is-an-act-of-racism-to-enforce-our-immigration-laws/ #ClarkCounty #ICE #Immigration #Opinion #KenVance
AP correspondent Naeun Kim reports on the countdown to Australia's under-16 social media ban.
Joyce talks about a comprehensive assessment of the 12 day war between Israel and Iran, the DOJ Civil Rights Division to also focus on gun rights, and President Trump orders the FBI to investigate six lawmakers who made a video telling the military to undermine him. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Judge Murphy noted that the school district was “wrong” to consider biological pronouns as something abusive. Constitutional expert, lawyer, author, pastor, and founder of Liberty Counsel Mat Staver discusses the important topics of the day with co-hosts and guests that impact life, liberty, and family. To stay informed and get involved, visit LC.org.
EPA enforcement cases have plummeted, even as non-compliance rates climb. Now, a major staffing cut at the Justice Department's environmental section and a federal shutdown that paused inspections leave enforcement at a crossroads. Federal News Network's Eric White spoke with Former EPA Deputy Assistant Administrator Stacy Geis about the resource drain crippling environmental enforcement and whether states can fill the widening gap.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
They call it greedy. We call it boundaries. This is Greedy Bitch — where groomers stop settling, stop explaining, and start living life on their own terms. I'm your host, River Lee — and listen, if your hands hurt, your phone won't stop buzzing, and your clients are already asking to be squeezed in before the holidays… friend, I feel you. We are about to be in the thick of it. It's the season of over-caffeinated chaos. Fur is literally everywhere. You've got bows in places bows were never meant to be. And somehow, even with all this “holiday cheer,” you're starting to feel… tapped out. Because here's the thing no one tells you about gratitude season: it can make you forget your own limits. You start thinking, “I should be thankful. I should say yes. I should just push through.” But that's not gratitude — that's martyrdom dressed like a turkey. True gratitude doesn't mean saying yes to everything. It means respecting yourself enough to say no when you need to. So today, we're going to talk about something most groomers struggle with — especially this time of year — and that's boundaries. Because friend, boundaries are not mean. Boundaries are not selfish. Boundaries are how you say, “I'm grateful for what I have — and I want to protect it.” So grab that cold cup of coffee from this morning, take a deep breath, and let's talk about how “no” can actually be the kindest form of “thank you.” Let's be real. Groomers have a hard time saying no. Some of us will spend hours dematting a dog so we don't have to send them home as a shaved naked sacrificial lamb for the holidays… Then someone squeezes in that once a year husky or the doodle who canceled the last 2 months appointments… then, SURPRISE! They have to get in now because it's an emergency. It seems like the holidays mean handling cranky clients —God forbid you tell someone you can't squeeze them in? That you'll have to shave their dog like a naked mole rat? Suddenly we're hiding in the back room so we don't have to make eye contact with the customer we know is going to be pissed or turning the ringer off so you don't have to avoid the call from ‘you know who.' Why? Because we're scared. Scared of losing clients. Scared they'll bad-mouth us online. Scared they'll think we don't care about their pets we sacrifice so deeply for. And then there's the guilt. “Oh, they've been coming here forever.” “Oh, their dog's so sweet, I'll just squeeze them in.” “Oh, it's just one more little Shih Tzu — what's the harm?” The harm is your sanity. Every “just one more” chips away at your patience, your body, and your joy. And let's not forget the soft yes. You know the one: “Let me see what I can do.” “If someone cancels, I'll call you.” Or my personal favorite: “I'll try to fit you in somewhere.” No you won't. You're already booked up to your eyeballs. You're lying to yourself out of guilt. Here's what happens — you say yes out of kindness, but then you're angry the whole time you're grooming that dog. You try to smile when they come to pick up but you know they don't actually appreciate how much you did for them. You're rushing, your back hurts, you're starving, and you're muttering under your breath like, “I swear, next year I'm not doing this again.” But you will — unless you start recognizing that saying yes to everyone else means saying no to yourself. You think you're being grateful, but what you're really doing is giving your peace away in tiny little pieces — one soft yes at a time. And listen, if you've ever found yourself crying in your car between grooms, eating gas station snacks for lunch, and wondering why you're so tired — it's not because you're weak. It's because you've been saying “yes” when your soul and body has been begging you to say “no.” Alright— let's reframe this whole thing. What if saying “no” was actually the most loving thing you could do? Think about it this way: When you say no to an overbooked day, you're saying yes to the dogs already on your table. You're saying yes to doing your best work. When you say no to last-minute chaos, you're saying yes to your health, your family, your peace. That's not rejection — that's respect. Boundaries are love with structure. You know how we have grooming loops to keep dogs safely on grooming tables and in tubs? Boundaries are the emotional version of that. They keep your career from falling off the table. Let me tell you a quick story. A few years ago, I had a client — sweet lady, older and a terrible planner. Every thanksgiving AND christmas, she'd call me in a panic: “Oh River, I forgot to book! Can you just squeeze in Bailey? Just this once?” And every year, I'd cave. I'd stay late, skip dinner, and tell myself, “It's fine, it's the holidays.” One year, I was so behind that I actually forgot to eat for 12 hours. I was shaky, dehydrated, and trying to not shave down the ancient skin tag riddled bichon because ‘surely this is the last time' while convincing myself I was being kind. Spoiler alert: I wasn't. I was exhausted, cranky, and if I'm honest, Bailey could feel it. The following year, I said no. Kindly. Firmly. “I'm so sorry, I'm not accepting grooming clients in November or December if they had not received a full groom in September or October. Let's pre-book for next time so this doesn't happen again.” She huffed. She whined. And then? She booked ahead. Because clients adjust to the boundaries you teach them. That's when it hit me: Every time you say yes to something that hurts you, you're teaching clients that your time and energy don't matter. But every time you say no with confidence, you teach them that they're working with a professional — not a pushover. Boundaries don't scare away the right clients. They filter out the wrong ones. Alright, let's talk about how to actually do this. Because it's one thing to nod along, and it's another to hit “send” on that text that says, “I can't fit you in.” Here's where to start: Step one: Decide your limits before the chaos hits. Know the last booking date before the holiday. Are you working the morning of thanksgiving? Are you closed christmas eve morning? Then decide limitations like no full grooms the week of Thanksgiving or Christmas. Maybe set limits of how many dogs per day you'll groom and see what feels healthy. Write it down — because when you're tired, when you feel pressure, your boundaries get fuzzy. Step two: Communicate clearly. You can be kind and firm. Try something like: “Hey! I'm fully booked for the holidays, but I'd love to add you to my cancellation list or get you on the schedule for January.” That's not rude — that's clear boundaries. Step three: Use your tools. Post booking reminders on social media. Use automated messages. And if writing those texts stresses you out — don't worry, I've got you covered. I created a Free Holiday Boundaries Script with word-for-word responses for every “Can you squeeze me in?” and “But I forgot to book!” message you'll get this season. You can grab it right now at SavvyGroomer.com/HolidayBoundaries Step four: Enforce your boundaries. Once you set them, stick to them. Because if you don't respect your own limits, no one else will. You teach people how to treat you — and that includes your clients. Before we wrap up, I just want you to remember this: Boundaries are not barriers — they're bridges. They connect who you are to the life you actually want to live. When you say “no” from a place of love, you're saying, “I want to keep doing this career I adore, without losing myself in it.” That's not selfish. That's sacred. So this week, I want you to pick one small boundary to hold. Maybe it's no texting after hours. Maybe it's saying “no” to a same-day request. Maybe it's taking a lunch break — a real one, with food that didn't come from a gas station or dunkin donuts. Whatever it is, do it for you. Because gratitude without boundaries is just burnout in a cute outfit. You deserve peace. You deserve rest. And you deserve to be respected — by your clients and by yourself. Alright, that's it for this week's episode of Greedy Bitch. If this hit home, share it with a fellow groomer who needs permission to say “no” without guilt. And don't forget to grab your Free Holiday Boundaries Script at SavvyGroomer.com/HolidayBoundaries Until next time — stay grateful, stay gritty, and as always… stay greedy, bitch.
Your Parenting Mojo - Respectful, research-based parenting ideas to help kids thrive
You've told your parents you're not available during work hours. They keep calling anyway. You've asked them not to comment on your weight. They bring it up again on the next visit. You've said no to those random Amazon gifts. Another package arrives at your door. Many parents know how to set boundaries, but get stuck when someone won't respect them. In this summary episode, therapist Nedra Glover Tawwab shares practical strategies for enforcing boundaries when people repeatedly ignore or dismiss them. You'll learn about the "fire extinguisher method" for stopping uncomfortable conversations before they spiralhow to embody your boundaries through your actions (not just your words)how to navigate the especially tricky situation where you rely on someone for childcare but they won't respect your limits. Nedra also discusses her new children's book and works through real scenarios about unwanted gifts, body-shaming comments, and what to do when setting a boundary means potentially losing support you need. This conversation gets honest about the hard choices enforcing boundaries sometimes requires. Can you really maintain a boundary with someone you depend on? What do you do when the person provides childcare for you? Nedra offers a clear framework for deciding when to stand firm, how to take action when words aren't working, and why allowing people to be upset with you is part of the process. Questions this episode will answer How do you deal with someone who doesn't respect boundaries? Enforce the boundary through your behavior, not just your words. If someone keeps calling during work hours after you've asked them not to, don't answer the phone. If they bring unwanted gifts, donate them immediately or return them to the gift-giver. You can't control what they do, but you can control what you do. Why is setting boundaries so hard? We often learned in our families of origin that setting boundaries leads to rejection or anger. We worry about people being mad at us, the relationship ending, or being seen as selfish. These fears come from early experiences where our caregivers responded poorly when we tried to express our needs and boundaries. How do you enforce boundaries when words aren't working? Use behavioral enforcement. Stop answering calls during the times you've said you're unavailable. Use the "fire extinguisher method" to interrupt conversations the moment they start heading toward topics you've said are off-limits. Show through your actions that you meant what you said. What is the fire extinguisher method for boundaries? Jump in to stop conversations before they get going, the way you'd use a fire extinguisher on a small flame before it spreads. When someone starts bringing up a topic you've clearly said you won't discuss, interrupt them immediately: "I know where this is going, and I don't want to talk about it.” Why do people get upset when you set boundaries? Some people are used to being able to say or do whatever they want in the relationship. Your boundary ‘brushes up against' their expectation of having full access to you or being able to speak freely. They may also genuinely believe you need to hear what they have to say. Should you be with someone who doesn't respect your boundaries? This depends on the severity of the violation and your level of dependence. If someone provides childcare but also body shames you, you may need to find alternative childcare to truly maintain the boundary. Sometimes you have to choose between the support someone offers and having your boundaries respected. You might accept that certain behaviors come as part of the "package," or you might want to reduce your...
Global Investors: Foreign Investing In US Real Estate with Charles Carillo
Bad tenants can destroy your profit, your property, and your peace of mind. In this episode, Charles Carillo reveals exactly how to avoid bad tenants before they ever move in, using proven tenant screening systems that have kept his multifamily business profitable and stress-free since 2006. You'll learn the step-by-step tenant screening process used by top landlords: from background checks and income verification to lease design, move-in inspections, and early enforcement strategies. Whether you manage one unit or an entire multifamily portfolio, these insights will help you protect your rentals, reduce turnover, and maximize cash flow. Key Takeaways: • Strong tenant screening prevents 90% of landlord problems • Set clear expectations before move-in through walkthroughs and documentation • Enforce lease policies immediately and consistently • Keep all communication in writing to stay professional and protected • Treat landlording like a business — use systems, not guesswork Links Referenced in Episode: SS189: Tenant Screening Questions - https://youtu.be/x_ZbhapSPYU Connect with the Global Investors Show, Charles Carillo and Harborside Partners: ◾ Setup a FREE 30 Minute Strategy Call with Charles: http://ScheduleCharles.com ◾ Learn How To Invest In Real Estate: https://www.SyndicationSuperstars.com/ ◾ FREE Passive Investing Guide: http://www.HSPguide.com ◾ Join Our Weekly Email Newsletter: http://www.HSPsignup.com ◾ Passively Invest in Real Estate: http://www.InvestHSP.com ◾ Global Investors Web Page: http://GlobalInvestorsPodcast.com/
Are you constantly battling your teen over screen time — especially when it's time for dinner or bed?In this quick-hit episode of The Single Parenting Reset Show, Tess dives into a real-life parenting challenge: how to reset screen time limits when you've let things slide. Whether your teen is gaming all night or ignoring curfews, this episode offers tactical advice that's both compassionate and firm.Discover the exact words to use when setting (or re-setting) screen time boundaries.Learn how to use tech tools to shut off access—without a power struggle.Hear what really works to get your teen to cooperate—without yelling or threats.Hit play now to learn how to reset screen time limits and get back on track with your parenting goals—before the next meltdown.⭐Got screen time problems at home, get the Tech Reset Agreement here
4pm: In Studio Guest – Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison // Seattle City Attorney challenger won’t enforce banishment zones including Capitol Hill’s SODA // SPD soars toward hiring goals as recruitment surges // What the hell is going on in Venezuela? // US sought to lure Nicolás Maduro’s pilot into betraying the Venezuelan leader // Why Trump is ‘telegraphing’ military action against Venezuela // 'No doubt' Trump wants to topple our government, Venezuelan official tells BBC // Responding to texts about Snap
While a ton of attention has been focused on the federal government shutdown and Chicago's budget battle, south suburban Harvey is currently managing its own budget crisis and partial shutdown including layoffs and furloughs. Harvey World Herald founder Amethyst Davis is here to break down the latest. Plus, WBEZ's Mariah Woelfel joins to discuss the fallout from ICE raids in Little Village and Cicero earlier this week. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Oct. 24th episode: The Other Art Fair Broadway in Chicago Deborah's Place Window Nation MUBI Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
9th Circuit Hands Trump Sweeping Win Over Newsom — Trump Can Federalize California National Guard To Enforce Deportations! Plus, Top Democrat Brags That The Shutdown Is Designed To Make People SUFFER
Burnout has become the quiet epidemic of modern work. We tell people to “set better boundaries” or “take more time off,” but the real problem isn't a lack of self-care—it's that most organizations are designed to exhaust their people. Fear-based cultures, unclear priorities, and performative busyness have turned overwork into a badge of honor, leaving even the most capable teams running on fumes. In this episode, Rodney and Sam unpack the systemic roots of burnout and why it thrives inside traditional hierarchies. They explore how teams accidentally reinforce it, how leaders unknowingly reward it, and share real steps to change the system instead of blaming individuals. -------------------------------- Ready to change your organization? Let's talk. Get our newsletter: Sign up here. Follow us: LinkedIn Instagram -------------------------------- Mentioned references: "77% of professionals feel burned out" Prisoner's dilemma Theory Y "American teen experiences as much anxiety as 1950s psych patient" "job market hellscape article" Herbert Freudenberger and 12 stages of burnout "4 day workweek better human outcomes" 00:00 Intro + Check-In: What'a silly or inconsequential project to you've done just for fun? 03:23 The Pattern: Systemic burnout keeps being met with individual solves, which leads to more burnout 08:21 Team burnout red flag 1: Overhelptfulness 11:10 Team burnout red flag 2: Defeatism 14:04 Team burnout red flag 3: Procrastination 16:44 Team burnout red flag 4: Overwork on busywork 20:41 Team burnout red flag 5: Impatience 23:35 Burnout is tied to short-termism and fear 27:30 Bureaucracy and gaslighting 29:10 Idea 1: Combat busyness with an outcome audit 32:49 Idea 2: Clarify ways of working to cut through bureaucracy 34:29 Idea 3: Design defaults and rules that reduce systemic burnout 36:14 Idea 4: Learn your own burnout symptoms to steer the ship before you reach critical mass 42:00 Idea 5: Enforce work-in-product limits for your team 45:55 Wrap up: Leave us a review and share the show with your colleagues Sound engineering and design by Taylor Marvin of Coupe Studios.
BIO: Thomas J. Powell, founder of The Powell Perspective™, is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and advocate for founders, bringing clarity, strategy, and resilience to leaders building at scale.STORY: Thomas invested $3.6M in a friend's cannabis company, where he ignored his own due diligence framework. Because he skipped key governance protections and didn't document alignment or exit terms, the investment became frustrating, hard to control, and nearly impossible to fix—proving that breaking your own rules is the most expensive mistake.LEARNING: Never mix friendship and business. Make sure both you and the founder are solving the same problem. “They say good fences make good neighbors, good documents keep good friendships.”Thomas Powell Guest profileImagine navigating the high-stakes world of capital, strategy, and legacy with a guide who has raised billions and structured ventures worldwide. Thomas J. Powell, founder of The Powell Perspective™, is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and advocate for founders, bringing clarity, strategy, and resilience to leaders building at scale.Worst investment everYou've probably heard the saying, “Never mix friendship and business.” Thomas learned that lesson the hard way.His story starts with good intentions. When his kids' grandmother battled breast cancer, cannabis was the only thing that eased her treatment side effects. So when medical marijuana became legal in a few US states, investing in the cannabis industry felt like the right thing to do.But here's where things went wrong.A close friend brought him the deal, and because of that personal connection, Thomas skipped many of the due diligence steps he usually followed through his family office. No detailed governance clauses. No proper reporting framework. No accountability structure.It wasn't a small investment either—about $3.6 million. As time went on, the cracks began to show. The company missed financial reports, accounting systems were weak, and when COVID hit, things only got messier. To make matters worse, taking over the business wasn't even an option since he didn't have a cannabis license. The emotional toll of this situation was significant, as Thomas had to face the reality of his investment failing due to trusting a friend blindly.The worst part? Having to look a friend in the eye, knowing he'd broken his own investment rules.Lessons learnedVerify alignment: Make sure both you and the founder are solving the same problem, and that you share the same exit goals. Ask questions like, “If someone offered to buy this company for $25 million today, would you sell?” If your answers don't match, you're not aligned.Watch the hubris: Just because you're smart or successful doesn't mean you can see around every corner. Understand the legal and regulatory landscape before investing, especially in industries like cannabis, where compliance is complex.Enforce accountability: Set clear reporting expectations from day one and include consequences for missed deadlines. Thomas admits that if his deal had stricter enforcement clauses, it would've saved him time, money, and frustration later on.Andrew's takeawaysMany startups underpay themselves. It might sound noble, but it actually distorts valuation and creates problems later.Make sure founders are paying themselves a market-rate salary. That way, when the business is valued or...