Podcasts about FTC

Several stories have put government power over speech and technology back in the spotlight. In this episode, we break down the Pentagon's targeting of the AI company Anthropic, the push for government-mandated age verification technologies, and the Department of Justice's raid on a Washington Post reporter's home. We are joined by: Jennifer Huddleston, senior fellow in technology policy at the Cato Institute Mike Godwin, AI and privacy expert, first staff counsel at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, first full-time general counsel at Wikimedia, and author of two books on internet law and policy Greg Lukianoff, president and CEO of FIRE   Timestamps:  00:00 Intro   03:19 The Pentagon vs. Anthropic? 22:40 The FTC, Congress, and age verification laws 48:15 Is it unusual for the DOJ to seize a reporter's computer? 59:46 Outro   Don't miss the free speech event of the year! Get your tickets and learn more about the Soapbox Conference here. Enjoy listening to the podcast? Donate to FIRE today and get exclusive content like member webinars, special episodes, and more.  If you became a FIRE Member through a donation to FIRE at thefire.org and would like access to Substack's paid subscriber podcast feed, please email sotospeak@thefire.org.  

When the FTC fines Infomercial kingpin Kevin Trudeau $37.6 million for all of his get-rich-quick schemes, Trudeau hatches his most shameless scheme by claiming he's flat broke; Remington Financial Group's nightmare "advance fee" scam has cost small business owners their dreams and millions of dollars. (Original television broadcast: 7-10-2015) Want to binge watch your Greed? The latest episodes at: https://www.cnbc.com/american-greed/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

You might be working on your bone density, but are you training your balance in the right way to prevent falls and fractures?  Today, I'm talking about something that determines whether we stay independent and fracture-free as we age: balance. Yes, bone density matters, but preventing falls is what really protects us. I walk you through the three essential types of balance training. I also dive into dual tasking and why this strengthens the brain-body connection while improving reaction time and coordination. This should not be confused with multitasking, which is known to increase fall risk. And finally, I share something most people overlook: toe strength. Research shows that toe strength is one of the strongest predictors of falls, and I explain how to improve it. Balance might decline as you age, but with simple daily practice, you can maintain and even improve it.   "Toe strength was the single most predictor of falls, and each 1% increase in force under the big toe reduced fall risk by 7%." ~ Margie Bissinger   In this episode: - [01:30] - Static balance training (single leg, tandem stance) - [02:38] - Dynamic static balance and weight shifting - [04:51] - Dynamic moving balance and obstacle practice - [06:39] - Dual tasking vs. multitasking - [09:57] - Toe strength and fall prevention research - [11:54] - How to safely progress balance training   Resources - Fullscript Supplements at a Discounted Price - https://tinyurl.com/supplementsforless - Margie's Membership (includes all of these classes) at $29/month - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/bones-club - Free Osteoporosis Exercises to Prevent Fractures and Strengthen Your Bones - http://tinyurl.com/osteoporosisexercises  - Balance Classes: 1. Bone Strong Qi Gong - Balance and Stability Focused with Dr. Matt Jeffs - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/more-bone-strong-qi-gong-balance-stability-focused-on-demand - Balance and Brain Boost Classes with Cammy Dennis- https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/balance-and-brain-boost - Step Training for Agility and Balance with Joan Pagano - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/step-training-for-agility-balance-and-bone-strength-on-demand - Steady on Your Feet with Dr. Kavita Patel- https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/steady-on-your-feet-on-demand-class - New Ways to Strengthen Your Foot and Ankle with Dr. Claudia Tamas - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/new-ways-to-strengthen-your-foot-and-ankle-to-prevent-on-demand-class - Podcast - Toe Strengthening for Fall Prevention with Dr. Tom Michaud - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqNNKEDTq2o - ToePro - Use coupon code "happy-bones" for a 10% discount on all Dr. Michaud's products - https://www.humanlocomotion.com/?hl=margieb   More about Margie - Website - https://margiebissinger.com/  - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/  - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en    DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast. *In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.

Over the last few decades, prior approval requirements were considered an extraordinary remedy in merger settlements, yet their use has fluctuated in agency enforcement across recent administrations. Where do the FTC and DOJ stand in their current practice? Bilal Sayyed, a Counsel at the Cadwalader law firm, and antitrust professor and former FTC policy leader, speaks with Anora Wang and Jeny Maier about the role of prior approval provisions in modern merger enforcement and what their recent rise—and retreat—signals about agency policy. Listen to this episode to learn how prior approval differs from traditional HSR review, when agencies have relied on such provisions, and what the evolving approach means for merging parties and future dealmaking. With special guest: Bilal Sayyed, Counsel, Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft Related Links: 2021 FTC Statement on Use of Prior Approval Provisions in Merger Orders Bilal Sayyed, U.S. Antitrust Agency Merger Roundup & Commentary: FTC Reverses Routine Use of Prior Approval Requirements in Merger Settlements, Trump Antitrust Leadership Continues Departure from Antitrust Merger Policies of Previous Administration (July 15, 2025) Hosted by: Anora Wang, Arnold & Porter and Jeny Maier, Axinn, Veltrop & Harkrider

Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS redefines profitable SEO as more than just rankings — it is profit multiplied by time. He introduces the concept of a foundational evergreen operating system: being where people are, staying ever-ready, and building connections that compound. The episode covers the SEO quadrant and its four pillars, why your contact database is your most valuable SEO asset, and how first-party data from email lists outperforms second-party data from platforms like LinkedIn, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Jonathan shares how NewsBreak and Medium drive backlinks and high domain authority, while Dr. Martin highlights the BlackNews.com story — a site built in 1999 on pure HTML that became the top black news site in the world because Google could easily crawl it. Favour performs a live Semrush audit, explains authority scores, and breaks down how commercial-intent articles like "top 10" lists build domain dominance the way Yelp does. The conversation also covers the new FTC rule on fake reviews, why your website must be the cornerstone of all marketing, and how SEO is ultimately about being the person of remembrance.Book SEO Services? Save These Quick Links for Later>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book SEO Services with Favour Obasi-ike⁠>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠>> Read SEO Articles>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online>> Favour Obasi-ike Quick Links>> Start Recording your Podcast with Riverside Today | Sign Up with My Affiliate Link HereTimeline and Timestamps[00:07] Introduction — profit times time formula.[03:04] The SEO quadrant: mastering the four pillars of SEO.[04:06] Foundational evergreen operating system explained.[07:23] Jonathan on writing for NewsBreak and generating backlinks.[09:05] How NewsBreak articles drive local SEO and 50M monthly users.[10:14] Funneling: 250 words on NewsBreak, full article on your website.[15:55] Associating your brand with related brands for SEO value.[17:01] Profitable SEO: measuring profit in time and money.[19:42] Profitable SEO measured by total contacts in your database.[22:08] First-party vs. second-party data — LinkedIn, Spotify, Apple.[30:40] Live Semrush audit — authority score of 24, 3.7K organic traffic.[34:08] What is domain authority and how to build it.[36:34] Commercial-intent articles: the Yelp strategy for SEO dominance.[42:09] FTC new rule on fake reviews and fake followers.[43:03] BlackNews.com — 25 years of domain authority on pure HTML.[48:31] SEO is about being the person of remembrance.[51:00] Problem aware to solution aware to product aware funnel.[54:00] Answer questions on your website, not just social media.[60:08] On-the-spot audits announcement — turning 5% learning into 90%.Memorable Quotes"Profitable SEO is measured by the total amount of contacts you have in your database.""SEO is letting you be the person of remembrance.""When you're building a house, you don't start from the windows. You start from the thought.""Don't give them the full article on LinkedIn. Give them a little bit, then they click through.""Clubhouse is just 5% acquisition of learning. We want to turn that to 90%."FAQs AnsweredWhat does profitable SEO mean?It is profit multiplied by time — measuring both the monetary return and the time saved through organic search visibility and relationship building.What is domain authority?A proprietary metric measuring a domain's dominance based on years of indexed content, quality backlinks, and organic search traffic.Why is first-party data important for SEO?Platforms like LinkedIn and Spotify own your subscriber data. Building your own email list gives you direct access to your audience through your domain.How do commercial-intent articles help SEO? "Top 10" and comparison articles keep visitors on your site longer, build authority, and capture searches where users are ready to take action.Key TakeawaysBuild your contact database — it is your most valuable SEO asset. Create commercial-intent articles to capture high-value searches. Use platforms like Newsbreak and Medium for backlinks but always funnel traffic to your website. Your website is the cornerstone — answer questions there, not just on social media. SEO is a long game: do the groundwork, and your business will eventually fly on autopilot.Keywordsprofitable SEO, domain authority, SEMrush, backlinks, first-party data, email marketing, Newsbreak, commercial intent, contact database, SEO quadrant, authority score, organic traffic, content funneling, evergreen content, website optimizationSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“The fatal error is ours. Legislators set out a regulatory regime that keeps regulation at bay. The only other industry with a similar protection is the gun industry.” — Olivier SylvainThere are certain words in book titles that provoke. “Reclaiming”, for example. My guest today is happy to defend the provocation. Fordham law professor and former FTC senior advisor Olivier Sylvain argues in his new book, Reclaiming the Internet, that the internet was never really ours to begin with—and that the story about user control, free speech, and digital democratisation was always more nostalgia than reality.But Sylvain's argument in Reclaiming the Internet: How Big Tech Took Control—and How We Can Take It Back is not the usual big-tech-is-bad narrative (yawn). He doesn't blame the companies. He blames us—or rather, Congress. The fatal error, he says, was Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, passed in 1996, which created a blanket immunity from liability for companies trafficking in user-generated content. The only other industry with comparable legal protection, he says, is the gun industry. That immunity enabled the attention economy's business model. Infinite scrolling = infinite advertising = infinite profit.What follows from that error is now everywhere: autoplay, algorithmic recommendation—design features engineered to hold your attention, not to facilitate free speech. Sylvain insists these companies aren't really platforms. They are, instead, services delivering content pursuant to their bottom line. And now the same Nineties playbook—innovation, user control, free speech—is being replayed with AI. Companies are deploying chatbots before they're ready, racing each other to market. A young man killed himself after a Gemini chatbot told him to and Google invoked the First Amendment in its defence.The fix, Sylvain argues, is not to abolish Section 230 but to attend to the business model itself: data minimisation, purpose limitations, and the kind of product-safety regulation that every other industry—from automobiles to toys to food—already accepts. I should disclose that my wife runs litigation at Google, so I'm all too familiar with the counter argument. But Sylvain makes a persuasive case even if his reclamation project is still a little too Rousseauean for my Hobbesian taste. Five Takeaways•       The Fatal Error Was Ours, Not Theirs: Sylvain doesn't blame big tech. He blames us—or rather, Congress. Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act created a blanket immunity from liability for user-generated content. The only other industry with comparable protection is the gun industry. That legal shield became the business model.•       These Are Not Platforms: The word “platform” implies a neutral conduit connecting users. Sylvain says that's wrong. These are companies engineering your experience—infinite scroll, autoplay, algorithmic recommendation—to hold your attention and serve their bottom line. The free speech story is cover for a commercial design.•       The Same Mistake Is Happening with AI: The nineties playbook—innovation, user control, free speech—is being replayed with AI. Companies are deploying chatbots before they're ready, racing each other to market. Internal documents show they knew the dangers. A young man committed suicide after Gemini told him to. Google invoked the First Amendment in its defence.•       Data Protection Is the Real Fix: Sylvain argues for data minimisation and purpose limitations—rules that would only allow companies to collect information consistent with the purposes a consumer signed up for. Not to monetise it for opaque reasons. That would dampen the incentive to engineer addiction without touching free speech.•       There's a Bipartisan Consensus—but Only for Children: Something is shifting. Courts are rejecting Section 230 defences. Legislators on both sides agree something must be done. But the consensus only extends to protecting children. Sylvain thinks that's a mistake: a 36-year-old man just killed himself after talking to a chatbot. Adults are vulnerable too. About the GuestOlivier Sylvain is a professor of law at Fordham University, a former senior advisor to the Chair of the Federal Trade Commission, and a Senior Policy Research Fellow at Columbia University's Knight First Amendment Institute. His new book is Reclaiming the Internet: How Big Tech Took Control—and How We Can Take It Back (Columbia Global Reports).ReferencesReferences and previous Keen On episodes:•       Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act (1996) and its evolution into blanket immunity for tech companies•       Gonzales v. Google (2023)—the Supreme Court case that declined to rule on Section 230 but allowed the merits to proceed•       The Character AI / Gemini chatbot suicide cases—ongoing litigation against Google•       Tim Wu on the extractive economics of platform capitalism — previous Keen On episode•       Julia Angwin, Zephyr Teachout, and Stewart Brand—referenced in the conversationAbout Keen On AmericaNobody asks more awkward questions than the Anglo-American writer and filmmaker Andrew Keen. In Keen On America, Andrew brings his pointed Transatlantic wit to making sense of the United States—hosting daily interviews about the history and future of this now venerable Republic. With nearly 2,800 episodes since the show launched on TechCrunch in 2010, Keen On America is the most prolific intellectual interview show in the history of podcasting.WebsiteSubstackYouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction: What does “reclaiming” the Internet mean? (03:06) - The layered stack: pipes, platforms, and consumer-facing apps (06:01) - Was user control ever real? The ideology of the nineties (09:32) - The fatal error: Section 230 and blanket immunity (14:51) - Facebook as punching bag—and why Sylvain doesn't blame the companies (17:31) - Addiction, self-harm, and the design features that hold your attention (22:00) - The attention economy and the Gonzales v. Google case (26:35) - How we can take it back: data minimization and purpose limitations (29:02) - “These are not platforms” (31:21) - Europe, the First Amendment, and the right to be forgotten (33:06) - AI business ...

On this episode of Astonishing Healthcare, Lloyd Fiorini, General Counsel & Chief Compliance Officer at Judi Health, returns to the studio for a discussion about the barrage of regulatory changes shaping the pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) landscape in early 2026. Within just two weeks, the Department of Labor announced new proposed rules, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026 became law, and the FTC's announced a settlement with Express Scripts. Then, to top it all off, TrumpRx went live.Lloyd offers clear, helpful explanations of the key takeaways from each of these concurrent reforms aimed at improving transparency and how PBMs operate and interact with the other stakeholders in the supply chain, from independent pharmacies to patients and plan sponsors (employers). Whether you're responsible for a self-funded plan or overseeing a Medicare Part D plan, this episode provides the detail and insights about where the puck is going that you need. As Lloyd said, "I think we've made a great step forward, but the work isn't done."It's also worth giving a shoutout to previous guest Jim Winkler, as "Change is Imminent" is in the title of AH090!Episode HighlightsThe Department of Labor's historic proposed rules on PBM disclosures fills a gap left by the CAA of 2021The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026 redefines the financial alignment of pharmacy benefits beyond just Medicare Part Patient/plan member protection seems to be what the FTC's recent settlement was all aboutTrumpRx signals a broader shift toward transparent, cost-plus pricing models, but it's just for cash-paying customers, at least for nowDelinking and efforts to block vertical integration are hotly contestedRelated ContentAH095 - What's in Store for the New Year? A Special Round-Robin Episode of Astonishing HealthcareHow to obtain Rx data and what to do with itAH096 - A Quick Government Programs Update: The IRA & MPPP, Managing D-SNPs, and More, with Jason BarrettoSigns it is time to change your PBM vendor, and how to overcome common hesitationsReference LinksUS Department of Labor proposes historic pharmacy benefit manager fee disclosure rule (January 29)PBM Reforms Signed Into Law, Reshaping Medicare Part D Drug Pricing Transparency (February 3)FTC Secures Landmark Settlement with Express Scripts to Lower Drug Costs for American Patients (February 4)TrumpRx Launches (February 6)For more information about Judi Health and this episode, please visit Judi Health - Insights.

This Day in Legal History: Boston MassacreOn March 5, 1770, a confrontation between British soldiers and American colonists in Boston turned deadly in what became known as the Boston Massacre. Tensions had been rising for months as British troops occupied the city to enforce parliamentary taxes that many colonists believed were unjust. On that evening, a crowd gathered near the Boston Custom House and began taunting a British sentry, shouting insults and throwing snowballs and debris. As the situation escalated, additional soldiers arrived to support the guard, but the crowd continued to press in. In the confusion and fear of the moment, the soldiers fired into the crowd. Five colonists were killed and several others were wounded, including Crispus Attucks, who is often remembered as the first casualty of the American Revolution.The incident quickly became a flashpoint in colonial politics, with patriot leaders using it as evidence of British tyranny. Yet the legal response that followed was notable for its commitment to due process despite intense public anger. British Captain Thomas Preston and eight soldiers were arrested and charged with murder. Future president John Adams agreed to defend the soldiers, arguing that the rule of law required even deeply unpopular defendants to receive a fair trial. During the proceedings, Adams emphasized the evidence suggesting the soldiers had been surrounded and threatened by a hostile crowd. The jury ultimately acquitted six soldiers and convicted two of the lesser charge of manslaughter.The trials demonstrated an early American commitment to the principle that legal judgments should be guided by evidence rather than public pressure, even during moments of political upheaval.The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that New Jersey cannot use sovereign immunity to protect New Jersey Transit from personal injury lawsuits filed by riders injured outside the state. The unanimous opinion, written by Sonia Sotomayor, resolved a conflict between the Pennsylvania Supreme Court and the New York Court of Appeals over whether the transit agency qualifies as an “arm of the state.” The dispute arose from two lawsuits filed by passengers injured in NJ Transit bus crashes that occurred outside New Jersey.The justices focused heavily on how the agency was structured. During oral argument, several members of the Court questioned why New Jersey created NJ Transit as a corporation with the ability to sue and be sued while also disclaiming responsibility for its debts. Some justices suggested those design choices undermined the state's argument that the agency should receive sovereign immunity protections.New Jersey's lawyers argued that the agency's independence is largely formal and that the governor maintains significant control over the system. They also warned that allowing such lawsuits could subject the state to litigation in other states' courts. However, the Court appeared unconvinced by those arguments and emphasized that the plaintiffs were private individuals seeking compensation rather than other states trying to regulate New Jersey.The ruling ultimately sided with the New York court's earlier decision and overturned the Pennsylvania ruling, allowing the personal injury lawsuits to proceed.Supreme Court Rejects NJ Immunity Defense In NY, Pa. SuitsRegulators are increasingly focusing on dynamic or algorithmic pricing, a practice that uses personal data—such as location, browsing history, and purchasing behavior—to set individualized prices for consumers. The approach has raised concerns among privacy and consumer protection regulators because it relies on large amounts of personal data and may affect price transparency. Although grocery pricing has drawn the most attention, the practice is also used in industries like travel, financial services, and online retail.The Federal Trade Commission has been studying the issue but has not clearly stated whether dynamic pricing violates any specific federal law. In 2024, the agency issued subpoenas to companies that develop pricing algorithms to learn how they collect consumer data, train their systems, and influence the prices consumers see. A preliminary research summary released in 2025 confirmed that these tools rely heavily on consumer data and can adjust prices in real time, but it did not identify specific legal violations.While the federal approach remains uncertain, state regulators are taking more direct action. The office of Rob Bonta, the California attorney general, launched an investigative sweep in January 2026 to examine how companies use consumer data to personalize prices. Investigators sent letters to retailers, grocery stores, and hotels requesting information about pricing algorithms, data sources, and disclosures to consumers.Meanwhile, the New York Attorney General's Office is investigating companies' compliance with the state's new Algorithmic Pricing Disclosure Act. The law requires businesses to clearly inform consumers when prices are generated using algorithms that rely on their personal data. Regulators have warned that disclosures hidden behind hyperlinks may not satisfy the law's requirement that notices be clear and conspicuous.Other states are considering similar legislation, including proposals targeting surveillance-based pricing or banning dynamic pricing in certain industries. As scrutiny increases, companies that use personalized pricing tools are being urged to review their data practices, pricing disclosures, and compliance with emerging state privacy laws.Amidst uncertainty from FTC, states zero in on dynamic and algorithmic pricing | ReutersThe U.S. civilian federal workforce decreased by about 12% between September 2024 and January 2026, according to newly released government data. The reductions reflect efforts by Donald Trump's administration to shrink federal agencies, a policy he promoted as a way to reduce government size and increase efficiency.Several major departments experienced significant staffing losses. The U.S. Department of the Treasury saw its workforce drop by roughly 24%, while the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services lost about 20% of its employees during the same period. These reductions represent some of the largest declines across federal agencies.One notable exception was the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which slightly increased its workforce by less than 1%. The agency's growth reflects the administration's continued focus on immigration enforcement and deportation efforts.Overall, the data indicates that the administration's push to cut federal staffing has had a broad impact across much of the government, significantly reducing the number of civilian employees in many departments.US government workforce shrunk by 12% since September 2024 | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Imagine a blueprint so ambitious it aims to remake the entire federal government in the image of one person's vision. That's Project 2025, a 900-page manifesto from the Heritage Foundation and former Trump officials, as detailed in its core document, Mandate for Leadership. According to the Heritage Foundation's plan, it seeks to restore "self-governance to the American people" by centralizing power in the presidency under the unitary executive theory, which grants the president near-total control over the bureaucracy.Fast forward to 2026, and its ideas are no longer hypothetical. President Trump's executive orders have brought them to life with startling speed. Take Schedule F: Project 2025 called for reinstating this Trump-era order to strip job protections from up to 50,000 civil servants, replacing experts with loyalists. The White House's January 2025 order, Restoring Accountability to Policy-Influencing Positions Within the Federal Workforce, did just that, as reported by Government Executive. Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, has fired tens of thousands, targeting diversity offices and agencies like USAID and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau—both Project 2025 priorities—though courts have reinstated some workers amid lawsuits from the ACLU and unions.Concrete examples abound. The plan urges eliminating the Department of Education, a goal Trump advanced via executive order, challenged by teachers' unions. It proposes weaponizing the DOJ against rivals, expanding political appointees there, and ending independence for agencies like the FCC and FTC by overruling Supreme Court precedents, per the Center for American Progress analysis. DOGE has slashed Health and Human Services by 20,000 jobs and gutted IRS civil rights offices, aiming to "traumatically affect" workers, as OMB Director Russell Vought stated.Experts warn of dire implications. The ACLU describes it as a "radical restructuring" threatening civil rights, while the American Federation of Government Employees fears up to a million job losses, crippling services for rural families and seniors. Proponents see efficiency; critics, an imperial presidency eroding checks and balances.As lawsuits pile up and agencies submit reorganization plans by April, the real test looms: Will Congress rein in these moves, or will DOGE hit its $1 trillion savings goal by July? The battle for America's governance rages on.Thanks for tuning in, listeners. Come back next week for more.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Microsoft keeps stepping on that rake. The FTC is investigating them for monopolistic and "anti-Christian" practices, their new Windows 11 updated made it impossible for some computers to get online via ethernet and now they've had to shut down their Copilot Discord because everyone kept spamming it with the term "Microslop." You can't make this up... Watch the podcast episodes on YouTube and all major podcast hosts including Spotify.CLOWNFISH TV is an independent, opinionated news and commentary podcast that covers Entertainment and Tech from a consumer's point of view. We talk about Gaming, Comics, Anime, TV, Movies, Animation and more. Hosted by Kneon and Geeky Sparkles.Get more news, views and reviews on Clownfish TV News - https://more.clownfishtv.com/On YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/ClownfishTVOn Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4Tu83D1NcCmh7K1zHIedvgOn Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/clownfish-tv-audio-edition/id1726838629

Did you know that your posture plays a crucial role in your overall health? In case you missed it, we're bringing back one of our most popular episodes with Dr. Claudia Tamas, an expert in bone health and movement. We cover some surprising facts, including the impact of posture and kyphosis on your vital organs and how certain postural changes are linked to decreased bone density. Dr. Claudia explains how a simple yet powerful exercise can actually increase bone density and prevent fractures, especially in the hip and femoral neck. You'll also learn about key exercises, such as the squat and chin retraction, that can help you strengthen your muscles and improve posture. These exercises are not only simple to perform but also offer immense benefits in maintaining bone health as we age. Whether you're new to this episode or want to refresh your memory, now's the perfect time to check it out in full on YouTube.  Watch The Best Exercises to Prevent Fractures and Strengthen Bones | Dr. Claudia Tamas & Margie Bissinger - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FLlEykJ1kg   "For patients with osteoporosis, posture and postural architecture collapse are a matter of life and death." ~ Dr. Claudia Tamas   In this episode: [02:08] - The consequences of poor posture: kyphosis and its effects on bones and vital organs [07:02] - The importance of posture analysis and working with a physical therapist [09:43] - How bad posture impacts lung capacity and recovery from fractures [12:33] - Case studies showing the impact of posture correction on bone density [15:54] - Recommended support for nursing home residents [17:04] - The three most important exercises for recovery [21:23] - How squats can strengthen bones, especially the femoral neck [24:05] - Demonstration of proper squat form and its benefits for bone health   Resources - Mastering Core Activation for Weight Training and Life - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/mastering-core-activation-for-weight-training-and-life - Join Dr. Claudia's On-Demand Classes: New Ways to Strengthen Your Foot and Ankle to Prevent Falls - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/new-ways-to-strengthen-your-foot-and-ankle-to-prevent-on-demand-class Core, Posture & Gym Equipment for Osteoporosis-Safe Exercise - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/core-posture-gym-equipment-for-osteoporosis-safe-exercise-on-demand Osteoporosis Home Exercise Fundamentals On-Demand Class - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/osteoporosis-home-exercise-fundamentals-on-demand-class - Osteoporosis ONERO™ Program in Somerset, NJ -  https://www.nmrnj.com/our-services/osteoporosis-onero-program/ Fullscript supplements at a discounted price - https://tinyurl.com/supplementsforless - Happy Bones Club (Margie's membership) - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/bones-club - MORE Natural Approaches To Osteoporosis and Bone Health Summit (free 8 day access) - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/osteoporosis-bone-health-summit   More about Margie - Website - https://margiebissinger.com/  - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/  - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en    DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast. *In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.

Every day there are stories and alerts shared of new scams reminding us that the fraud landscape changes quickly. To stay safe, it's important to build good habits, improve your digital security, and use helpful tools to avoid, report, and recover from scams.  Links: Explore more resources for Consumer Protection Week Report scams at Identitytheft.gov Know your rights as a consumer when recovering from identity theft Explorer Triangle's Better Checking account with ID Protect Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union **Note: Better Checking is not an insurance product. Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.  It's National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), a time of year devoted to maintaining personal security and fighting fraud. Hosted by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), this important awareness week was established to help people better understand their consumer rights and take proactive steps to protect themselves.   This year, the FTC's message is clear: Avoid. Report. Recover. Practicing these three steps regularly can make you much more resilient to today's fraud tactics.  In this tip, we'll explain more about how you can “stay faster than fraud” by putting these actions into practice.   The first action, Avoid, is a reminder to help spot the fraud before it causes you to act.    Scammers rely on urgency. They want you to react fast instead of thinking things through. To avoid scams, try making small changes, like pausing before clicking a link, checking if a request is real, and seeing urgency as a warning sign. These quick pauses can help you avoid falling for scams.  Another way to avoid fraud is to learn about the types of scams that target consumers. Scams are always changing, so it's important to stay up to date. Common scams include identity theft, impostor scams, job scams, and phishing. They also use current events to make their tricks seem more believable.  Looking ahead, experts warn that in 2026, scammers are expected to use new hooks tailored to economic anxiety, like relief‑payment scams, bogus job offers, and highly personalized AI‑powered impersonation schemes. Knowing these patterns and warning signs ahead of time helps protect you and others from becoming the next victim.  Keep in mind that fraudsters also take advantage of digital weaknesses, so it's important to strengthen your security. Use strong, unique passwords with a trusted password manager, turn on multi-factor authentication when you can, keep your devices and software updated, and avoid doing financial transactions on public Wi-Fi. These steps greatly lower your risk of account takeovers and data theft.  And of course, it's important not to share too much personal information on social media or respond to unexpected requests for details. Scammers may send emails or texts that look like they're from people or organizations you trust. Being careful and a bit skeptical helps keep your information safe.  The next part of the FTC's action plan is to report any scams you encounter.   Many people don't report scams because they think it won't help. But the FTC says the opposite is true. Reporting scams helps spot trends, guide enforcement, and warn others about new threats. Sharing your experience helps the fight against fraud.  For identity theft cases, the FTC offers a dedicated resource website: IdentityTheft.gov. This one‑stop site hosts a collection of resources for consumers to use to report fraud. The site can help you generate an official FTC Identity Theft Report and provides a customized recovery plan, both of which are extremely useful when working with companies to dispute fraudulent activity.   Experts say that many fraud cases go unreported and scams are getting more advanced. Reporting scams not only helps you take back control, it also raises awareness and protects your community.  The last part of the FTC's plan is recovery. This means using tools and steps to help people recover after experiencing fraud.  If you become a victim of fraud, recovery can seem overwhelming. The FTC provides tools to guide you step by step through closing compromised accounts, contacting affected businesses, and stopping further misuse. It's no doubt that having a clear plan makes the process easier and faster.  Recovery also includes checking your credit reports often to spot any suspicious activity. If needed, you can set up fraud alerts or freeze your credit to stop new accounts from being opened in your name. This is a good reason to think about getting identity theft protection. There are many options available, and if you're a Triangle member, you could consider a Triangle Better Checking account with ID Protect. For $4.99 a month, members get identity theft protection that includes identity monitoring, credit score tracking, credit reporting, a dedicated case manager, and reimbursement for recovery costs. See the link in the show notes for more details.  A final, important part of recovery is knowing your rights as a consumer if money goes missing. Many people don't realize that you have specific rights when unauthorized transactions happen, including the right to ask your bank for reimbursement if money is taken without your approval. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) shares resources that explain these protections, so victims don't have to cover the losses themselves. If you want to learn more, check the link in the show notes.  When it comes to fighting fraud, you cannot sit on the sidelines. Start protecting yourself today. Review your habits, strengthen your security, and use new tools. Let Consumer Protection Week inspire you to act. Follow the FTC's advice: Avoid, Report, and Recover. By practicing these steps, you'll become more confident and resilient in a changing digital world.   If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.           Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast. 

Over the past few weeks, Legal Speak has featured a series of interviews from our sister podcast, "Supreme Court Brief." In this final installment, Supreme Court Brief host Jimmy Hoover interviews Bill Kovacic, a former chairman of the Federal Trade Commission during the late Bush and early Obama administrations. Kovacic speaks with Jimmy about the "disappointing" aspect of a Supreme Court hearing in Trump v. Slaughter about whether President Donald Trump should be allowed to fire members of so-called "independent agencies" like the FTC.  The case centers around Trump's purported firing of Democratic FTC member Rebecca Slaughter. It could spell the end of roughly a century of Supreme Court precedent upholding removal restrictions for members of multi-member government commissions.   Hosts: Cedra Mayfield & Patrick Smith Special Guest Host: Jimmy Hoover Guest: Bill Kovacic Producer: Charles Garnar  

States have become increasingly active participants in merger enforcement, often conducting independent analyses and, at times, intervening alongside federal agencies in high-profile cases. What goes into states' analyses and decisions to intervene? Anthony Mariano, Chief of the Antitrust Division at the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General, speaks with Lexi Michaud and Anora Wang about how states approach merger enforcement in parallel with the DOJ and FTC, the importance of independent state scrutiny, and, using the HPE–Juniper transaction to guide the discussion, how the Tunney Act promotes transparency and public interest oversight of federal settlements. With special guest: Anthony Mariano, Antitrust Division Chief, Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General Hosted by: Lexi Michaud, Fried Frank and Anora Wang, Arnold & Porter

The FTC is sounding the alarm on a big wave of tax season phone scams. Protect your cash and your peace with this quick tip. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This weeks energy is about constant change. To ensure you don't get stuck and make bad decisions, the key is to slow down. Allow yourself time to adjust to the energy.

This month is full of changing energies plus deception. Not just intentional deception, but unintentional and being deceptive with ourselves.The best way to manage is to be adaptable, don't make assumptions and focus on understanding yourself.

Entrepreneurship isn't just about growth — it's about what holds when everything is tested. In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford speaks with entrepreneur and author Anik Singal about one of the most challenging periods of his career: navigating an extended FTC investigation that forced him to shut down operations just weeks before a major company acquisition. Anik walks through: What an FTC investigation is really like Why compliance and substantiation are critical at scale The dangers of building fast without the right guardrails How reputation and brand can protect you in the worst moments Turning professional setbacks into purpose and clarity This conversation is a powerful reminder that success isn't defined by how fast you grow — but by how well you're prepared when things go wrong. Host & Guest Info Ryan Alford Host, Right About Now Website: https://ryanisright.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanalford Anik Singal Entrepreneur & Author Website: https://dontsaythat.com Compliance Software: https://complylly.com

Amazon may be testing a major review change, with some shoppers seeing only 10 reviews unless they apply for more. Amazon clarifies its multiple account policy. Plus, it's Episode 500 of the AM/PM Podcast! We're back with another episode of the Weekly Buzz with Helium 10's VP of Education and Strategy, Bradley Sutton. Every week, we cover the latest breaking news in the Amazon, TikTok Shop, Walmart, and E-commerce space, talk about Helium 10's newest features, and provide a training tip for the week for serious sellers of any level. In this episode, we're switching things up with a fresh new look, and it's the perfect time because this is Episode 500 of the AM/PM Podcast! Join us for a quick trip down memory lane as we celebrate nearly 10 years of the AM/PM Podcast and keep Manny Coats' classic “How cool is that? Pretty cool, I think.” spirit alive. Amazon reviews might be acting weird again, and it could be more than just the usual “dog page” error some shoppers have seen for months. In this week's first story, Bradley shares a new test showing up on certain customer accounts where you can only view 10 reviews and then have to “apply” to see more, with Amazon promising an email response within five business days. If this expands, it could push more shoppers toward Rufus-style review summaries rather than reading reviews directly, and it could significantly impact how sellers and tools analyze review data. Especially after Amazon's crackdown that removed Helium 10's Review Insights. The good news: the Helium 10 team is working on a new, fully “Amazon-compliant” version that still provides high-quality review insights, and Bradley asks viewers to share in the comments if they're seeing the same review limits and whether they think it could roll out more widely. Amazon Seller Central: Account health tips for multiple selling accounts https://sellercentral.amazon.com/seller-news/articles/QVRWUERLSUtYMERFUiNHVVFVQ1RDRThCSlJXUUhK Helium 10 New Feature Alert! Check out the new upgraded Cerebro with new Sponsored Rank filters, so you can instantly spot keywords where multiple competitors are bidding top of search. It's a fast way to see which terms rivals are fighting for most, and what should be on your ad radar next. Amazon Seller Central: Upload Images now provides faster uploads and more flexibility https://sellercentral.amazon.com/seller-news/articles/QVRWUERLSUtYMERFUiNHTE5HMzJYWTlMRExVUUha Seamlessly reach relevant audiences with enhanced targeting capabilities from Amazon Ads https://advertising.amazon.com/en-us/resources/whats-new/amazon-ads-introduced-enhanced-targeting-capabilities/ Next week brings a free AI monthly workshop with expert Andrew Bell showcasing Helium 10's revamped Listing Builder, now an all-in-one “8-in-1” workflow that combines keyword research with AI optimization, including Rufus question targeting. Register here: http://h10.me/aim3226 If you're in New York City, you can also catch Bradley in person at the ASGTG conference in Brooklyn on Thursday, March 5. It's the 12th ASGTG event and his first time attending in eight years, so it's a rare chance to meet up, network with sellers, and hear from a lineup of strong speakers. And yes, it's famous for the food, apparently “Michelin-starred for an Amazon conference” levels, so come for the content and connections, and stay for the bites. Register here: http://h10.me/asgtg Thanks for tuning in! Check back next week for more buzzing updates and strategies to help you stay ahead in e-commerce. In episode 500 of the AM/PM Podcast and Weekly Buzz, Bradley talks about: 00:00 - Introduction 00:44 - Episode 500 of the AM/PM Podcast! 03:07 - Is Amazon Hiding Reviews From All Amazon Customers? 07:35 - Amazon Multiple Account Policy Clarification 10:45 - How To See What Keywords Competitors Are Advertising Top Of Search 13:06 - Amazon Seller Central Image Upload Update 14:27 - Faster Way to Search Amazon Brand Analytics 18:19 - Amazon Ads Display and Video AI Targeting 20:10 - Upcoming Webinar and New York Event Enjoy this episode? Want to be able to ask questions to Leo Sgovio live in a small group with other 7 and 8-figure Amazon sellers?  Join the Helium 10 Elite Mastermind and get quarterly workshops, monthly training, and networking calls with Leo at h10.me/elite Make sure to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you listen to our podcast!  

I am Rolf Claessen and together with my co-host Ken Suzan I welcome you to Episode 172 of our podcast IP Fridays. Today's interview guests are Co-Founder & CEO of Inception Point AI, Jeanine Whright, and Mark Stignani, who is Partner & Chair of Analytics Practice at Barnes & Thornburg LLP. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeaninepercivalwright https://www.linkedin.com/in/markstignani Inception Point AI But before the interview I have news for you: The Unified Patent Court (UPC) ruled on Feb 19, 2026, that specialized insurance can cover security for legal costs. This is vital for firms, as it eases litigation financing and lowers financial hurdles for patent lawsuits by removing the need for high liquid assets to enforce rights at the UPC. On Feb 12, 2026, the WIPO Coordination Committee nominated Daren Tang for a second six-year term as Director General. Tang continues modernizing the global IP system, focusing on SMEs, women, and digital transformation. His confirmation in April is considered certain. An AAFA study from Feb 4 reveals 41% of tested fakes (clothing/shoes) failed safety standards. Many contained toxic chemicals like phthalates, BPA, or lead. The study highlights that counterfeiters increasingly use Meta platforms to sell unsafe imitations directly to consumers. China's CNIPA 2026 report announced a crackdown on bad-faith patent and trademark filings. Beyond better examination quality, the agency will sanction shady IP firms and stop strategies violating “good faith” to make China’s IP system more ethical and innovation-friendly. Now, let's hear the interview with Jeanine Whright and Mark Stignani! How AI Is Rewiring Media & Entertainment: Key Takeaways from Ken Suzan's Conversation with Jeanine Wright and Mark Stignani In this IP Fridays interview, Ken Suzan speaks with two repeat guests who look at the same phenomenon from two angles: Jeanine Wright, Co-Founder & CEO of Inception Point AI, as a builder of AI-native entertainment, and Mark Stignani, Partner and Chair of the Analytics Practice at Barnes & Thornburg LLP, as a lawyer advising clients who are trying to use AI without stepping into a legal (or ethical) crater. What emerges is a clear picture: generative AI is not just “another tool.” It is rapidly becoming the default infrastructure for creative work—while the rules around ownership, consent, and accountability lag behind. 1) What “AI-generated personalities” really are (and why that matters) Jeanine's company is not primarily “cloning” real people. Instead, Inception Point AI creates original, fictional personalities—characters with backstories, ambitions, and evolving arcs—then deploys them into the world as podcast hosts and content creators (and eventually actors and musicians). Her key point: the creative work still starts with humans. Writers and creators define the concept, tone, audience, and story engine. What AI changes is speed, cost, and iteration—and therefore what is economically feasible to produce. 2) The “generative content pipeline” isn't a magic button A recurring misconception Ken raises is the idea that someone “pushes a button” and content pops out. Jeanine explains that real production looks more like a hybrid studio: A creative team defines character, voice, format, and storyline. A technical team builds what she calls an “AI orchestration layer” that combines multiple models and tools. The “stack” differs by format: the workflow for a long-form audio drama is different from a short-form beauty clip. This matters because it reframes AI content not as a single output, but as a pipeline decision: which tools, which data sources, which QA, and which governance steps are used—and where human review happens. 3) The biggest legal questions: origin, liability, ownership, and contracts Mark doesn't name a single “top issue.” He describes a cluster of problems that repeatedly show up in client conversations: Training data and “origin story” Clients keep asking: Can I legally use AI output if the tool was trained on copyrighted works? Even if the output looks new, the unease is about whether the tool's capabilities are built on unlicensed inputs. Liability for unintended harm Mark flags risk from AI content that inadvertently infringes, defames, or carries bias. The legal exposure may not match the creator's intent. Ownership and protectability He points to a big gap: many jurisdictions are still reluctant to grant classic IP rights (copyright or patent-style protection) to purely AI-generated material. That creates uncertainty around whether businesses can truly “own” what they produce. Old contracts weren't written for AI A final, practical point: many agreements—talent contracts, author clauses, data licenses—predate generative AI and simply don't address it. That leads to disputes about scope, permissions, and—crucially—indemnities. 4) Are we at a tipping point? The “gold rush” vs. “next creative era” views Jeanine frames AI as “the world's most powerful creative tool”—comparable to previous step-changes like animation, special effects, and CGI. For her, the strategic implication is simple: creators who learn to use AI well will expand what they can build and test, faster than ever. Mark's metaphor is more cautionary: he calls the moment a “gold rush” where technology is sprinting ahead of law. Courts are getting flooded with foundational disputes, while legislation is fragmented—he notes that states may move faster than federal frameworks, and that labor agreements (e.g., union protections) will be a key pressure point. 5) Democratization: more creators, more niche content, more experimentation One of the most concrete themes is access. Jeanine argues AI will: Lower production barriers for independent filmmakers and storytellers. Reduce the need for “hit-making only” economics that dominate Hollywood. Make micro-audience content commercially viable. Her example is intentionally niche: highly localized, specialized content (like a “pollen report” for many markets) that would never have made financial sense before can now exist—and thrive—because the production cost drops and personalization scales. 6) Likeness, consent, and “digital performers”: what happens when AI resembles a real actor? Ken pushes into a sensitive area: what if someone generates a performance that closely resembles a living actor without consent? Mark outlines the current (imperfect) toolbox—because, as he emphasizes, most laws weren't built for this scenario. He points to practical claims that may come into play in the U.S., such as rights of publicity and false endorsement-type theories, and notes that whether something is parody or “too close” can become a major fault line. Jeanine explains her company's operational approach: They focus on original personalities, designed “from scratch.” They build internal checks to avoid misappropriating known names, likenesses, or recognizable identities. If they ever work with real people, the model would be licensing their likeness/voice. A subtle but important business point also appears here: Jeanine expects AI-native characters themselves to become licensable assets—meaning the entertainment economy may expand to include “celebrity rights” for fully synthetic personalities. 7) Ethics: the real line is “deception,” not “AI vs. human” The ethical core of the conversation is not “AI is bad” or “AI is good.” It's how AI is used—especially whether audiences are misled. Mark highlights several ethical risks: Misuse of tools to manipulate faces and content (“AI slop” and political misuse). Displacement of creative workers without adequate transition support. A concern that AI often optimizes toward “statistical averages,” potentially flattening originality. Jeanine agrees ethics must be designed into the system. She describes regular discussions with an ethicist and emphasizes a principle: transparency. Her company discloses when content or personalities are AI-generated. She argues that if people understand what they're engaging with and choose it knowingly, the ethical problem shifts from “AI exists” to “Are we tricking people?” Mark adds a real-world warning: deepfakes are now credible enough to enable serious fraud—he references a case-like scenario where a synthetic video meeting deceived an employee into authorizing a payment. The point is clear: authenticity and verification are no longer optional. 8) The “dead actor” hypothetical: legal permission vs. moral intent Ken raises a provocative scenario: an actor's estate authorizes an AI-generated new performance, but the actor opposed such technology while alive. Neither guest offers a simplistic answer. Jeanine suggests that even if the estate holds legal rights, a company might choose to avoid such content out of respect and because the ethical “overhang” could damage the storytelling outcome. She also notes the harder question: people who died before today's capabilities may never have been able to meaningfully consent to what AI can now do—raising questions about how we interpret legacy intent. Mark underscores the practical contract problem: many rights are drafted “in perpetuity,” but that doesn't automatically settle the ethical question. 9) Five-year forecast: “AI everywhere,” but audiences may stratify Ken closes with a prediction question: in five years, how much entertainment content will significantly involve AI—and will audiences care? Jeanine predicts AI becomes the default creative layer for most content creation. Mark is slightly more conservative on the percentage, but adds an important nuance: the market will likely stratify. Low-cost, high-volume content may become saturated with AI, while premium segments may emphasize “human-made” as a differentiator—especially if disclosure norms become standard. Bottom line for business leaders and creators This interview lands on a pragmatic conclusion: AI will change how content is made at scale, and the competitive edge will go to teams that combine creative taste, operational discipline, and legal/ethical governance. If you're building, commissioning, or distributing content, the questions you can't dodge anymore are: What's the provenance of the tools and data you rely on? Who is responsible when output harms, infringes, or misleads? What rights can you actually claim in AI-assisted work? Do your contracts and disclosures match the new reality? Ken Suzan: Thank you, Rolf. We have two returning guests to the IP Friday’s podcast. Joining me today is Janine Wright and Mark Stignani. Our topic for discussion, how is AI transforming the media and entertainment industries today? We look at the issues from differing perspectives. A bit about our guests, Janine Wright is a seasoned board member, CEO, global COO and CFO. She’s led organizations from startup to a $475 million plus revenue subsidiary of a public company. She excels in growth strategy, adopting innovative technologies, scaling operations and financial management. Janine is a media and entertainment attorney and trial litigator turned technologist and qualified financial expert. She is the co-founder and CEO of Inception Point AI, a growing company that is paving new ground with AI-generated personalities and content through developing technology and story. Mark Stignani is a partner with Barnes & Thornburg LLP and is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He is the chair of the data analytics department with a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence, machine learning, cryptocurrency and ESG. Mark combines the power of artificial intelligence and machine learning with his skills as a corporate and IP counsel to deliver unparalleled insights and strategies to his clients. Welcome, Janine and Mark to the IP Friday’s podcast. Jeanine Whright: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you so much for having me and fun to be back. It feels nostalgic to be here. Ken Suzan: That’s right. And you both were on the program. So it’s fantastic that you’re both back again. So our format, I’m going to ask a question to Janine and or Mark and sometimes to both of you. So that’s going to be how we proceed. Let’s jump right in. Janine, your company creates AI-generated actors. For listeners who may not be familiar, can you briefly explain what that means and what’s now possible that wasn’t even two years ago? Jeanine Whright: Sure. Yeah, we are creating AI-generated personalities. So new characters, new personalities from scratch. We design who these personalities are and will be, how they will evolve. So we give them complex backstories. We give them hopes and dreams and aspirations. We every aspect of them, their families, how they’re going to evolve. And in the same way that, say, you know, Disney designs the character for its next animated feature or, you know, an electronic arts designs a character for its next major video game. We are doing that for these personalities and then we are launching them into the world as podcast hosts, content creators on social platforms like YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. And even in the future, you know, actors in feature length films, musicians, etc. Ken Suzan: Very fascinating. Mark, from your practice, what’s the single biggest legal question or dispute you’re seeing clients wrestle with when it comes to AI and media creation? Mark Stignani: Well, I think that, you know, it’s not just one thing, it’s like four things. But most of them tend to be kind of the origin story of AI data or AI tools that they use because, you know, but for the use of AI tools trained on copyrighted materials, the tools wouldn’t really exist in their current form. So a lot of my clients are wondering about, you know, can I legally use this output if it’s built upon somebody else’s IP? The second ask, the second flavor of that is really, is there liability being created if I take AI content that inadvertently infringes or defames or biases there? So there’s the whole notion of training bias from the training materials that comes out. The third phase is really, you know, can I really own this? Because much of the world does not really give IP rights into AI-generated inventions, copyrighted materials. It’s still kind of a big razor. Then at the end of the day, you know, if it’s an existing relationship, does my contract even contemplate this? So everything from authors contracts on up to just use of data rights that predate AI. Ken Suzan: And Janine and Mark, a question to both of you. How would you describe where we are right now in the AI revolution in media and entertainment? Are we approaching a tipping point? And if so, what are the things we need to watch for? Jeanine Whright: Yeah, I definitely think that we’re at a phase where people are starting to come to the realization that AI is the world’s most powerful creative tool. But that, you know, storytelling and point of view is what creates demand and audiences. And AI doesn’t threaten or change that. But it does mean that as people evolve in this medium, they’re very likely going to need to adopt, utilize and figure out how to hone their craft with these AI-generated content and these AI-generated toolings. So this is, you know, something that people have done certainly in the past in all sorts of ways in using new tools. And we’ve seen that make a significant change in the industry. So you look at, you know, the dawn of animation as a medium. You look at use of special effects, computer-generated imagery in the likes of Pixar. And this is certainly the next phase of that evolution. But because of the power of the tool and what will become the ubiquity of the tool, I think that it’s pretty revolutionary and all the more necessary for people to figure out how to embrace this as part of their creative process. Ken Suzan: Thank you, Janine. Mark, your thoughts? Mark Stignani: Yeah, I mean, I liken this to historically to like the California gold rush right now, because, you know, the technology is so far outpaced in any of the legal frameworks that are available. And so we’re just trying to shoehorn things in left and right here. So, I mean, the courts are beginning to start to engage with the foundational questions. I don’t think they’re quite there yet. I just noticed Anthropic got sued again by another group of people, big music group, because of the downloaded works they’ve done. I mean, so the courts are, you know, the courts are certainly inundated with, you know, too many of these foundational questions. Legislatively, hard to tell. I mean, federal law, the federal government is not moving uniformly on this other than to let the gold rush continue without much check and balance to it. Whereas states are now probably moving a lot faster. Colorado, Illinois, even Minnesota is attempting to craft legislation and limitations on what you can do with content and where to go with it. So, I mean, the things we need to watch for any of the fair use decisions coming out here, you know, some of the SAG-AFTRA contract clauses. And, you know, again, the federal government, I just, you know, I got a big shrug going as to what they’re actually going to come up with here in the next 90 to 100 days. So, but, you know, I think they’ll be forced into doing something sooner than later. Ken Suzan: Okay, let’s jump into the topic of the rise of generative content pipelines. My first question to Janine. Studios and production companies are now building what some call generative content pipelines. This is where AI systems produce everything from scripts to visual effects to voice performances. What efficiencies and creative possibilities does this unlock for the industry? Jeanine Whright: Yeah, so this is quite a bit of what we do. And if I could help pull the curtain back and explain a little bit. Ken Suzan: That’d be great. Jeanine Whright: Yeah, there’s this assumption that, you know, somebody is just sitting behind a machine pushing a button and an out pops, you know, what it is that we’re producing. There’s actually quite a bit of humans still in the loop in the process. You know, we have my team as creators. The other half of my team is the technologists. And those creators are working largely at what we describe as the the tip of the sphere. So they’re, of course, coming up with the concepts of who are these personalities? What are these personalities, characters, backgrounds going to be a lot of like rich personality development? And then they’re creating like what are the formats? What are the kind of story arcs? What is the kinds of content that this this character wants to tell? And what are the audiences they’re desiring to reach and what’s most going to resonate with them? And then what we built internally is what we refer to as an AI orchestration layer. So that allows us to pull from basically all of the different models and then all of these different really cool AI tools. And put those together in such a way and combine those in such a way that we can have the kind of output that our creative team envisions for what they want it to be. And at the end of the day, what you what the stack looks like for, say, a long form audio drama, like the combination of LLMs that we’re going to use in different parts of scripting and production and, you know, ideating and all of that. And the kinds of tooling that we use to actually make it and get it to sound good and have the kinds of personality characteristics that we want to be in an authentic voice for a podcast is going to be different than the tech stack and the tool stack that we might use for a short form Instagram beauty tip reel. And so there’s a lot of art in being able to pull all of these tools together to get them to do exactly what you want them to do. But I think the second part of your question is just as interesting as the first. I mean, what is what possibilities is this unlocking? So of course you’re finding efficiencies in the creative production process. You can move faster. You can do things were less expensive, perhaps, and you were able to do it before. But on the creator side, I think one thing that hasn’t been talked about enough is how it is really like blown wide the aperture of what creators can do and can envision. Traditionally, you know, Hollywood podcasting, many of these businesses that become big businesses have become hit making businesses where they need to focus on a very narrow of wide gen pop content that they think is going to get tens of millions, hundreds of millions in, you know, fans and dollars in revenue for every piece of content that they make. So the problem with that is, is that it really narrows the kinds of things that ultimately get made, which is why you see things happening in Hollywood, like the Blacklist, which is, you know, this famous list of really exceptional content that remains unpredited, unproduced, or why you see things like, you know, 70 to 80% of the top 100 movies being based on pre-existing IP, right? Because these are such huge bets that you need to feel very confident that you’re going to be able to get big, big audiences and big, big dollars from it. But with AI, and really lowering the barrier to entry, lowering the costs of production and marketing, the experimentation that you can do is really, really phenomenal. So, you know, my creative team, if they have an idea, they make it, you know, they don’t have to wring their hands through like a green lighting process of, you know, should we, shouldn’t we, like we, we can make an experiment with lots of different things, we can do various different versions of something. We can see what would this look like if I placed it in the 1800s, or what if I gave this character an Australian accent, and it’s just the power of being able to have this creative partner that can ideate with you and experiment with you at rocket speed. With the creators that are embracing it, you can see how it is really fun for them to be able to have this wide of a range of possibility. Ken Suzan: Mark, when you hear about these generative pipelines, what are the immediate red flags or concerns that come to mind from a legal standpoint? How about ethics underlying all of this? Well, Mark Stignani: that was not, that’s the number one red flag because I mean, we are seeing not just that in the entertainment industry, but it literally at political levels, and the kind of the phrase, to turn the phrase AI slop being generated, we’re seeing, you know, people’s facial expressions altered. In some cases, we’re seeing AI tools being misused to exploit various groups of individuals and genders and age groups. So I mean, there’s a whole lot of things ethically that people are using AI for that just don’t quite cover it. Especially in the entertainment industry, I mean, we’re looking at a fair amount of displacement of human workers without adequate transition support, devaluation of the creative labor. I mean, the thing though that I’m always from a technical standpoint is AI is simply a statistical average of most everything. So it kind of devalues the benefit of having a human creator, a human contribution to it. That’s the ethical side. But on the legal side, I see chain of title issues. I mean, because these are built on very questionable IP ownership stages, I mean, in most of these tools, there has been some large copying, training and taking of copyrighted materials. Is it transformational? Maybe. But there’s certainly not a chain of title, nor is there permission granted for that training. I mentioned SAG-AFTRA earlier, I think there’s a potential set of union contract aspects to this that if you know many of these agreements and use sub-licenses for authors and actor agreements, they weren’t written with AI in mind. So that’s another red flag. And also I just think in indemnification. So if we ultimately get to a point where groups are liable for using content without previous license, then who’s liable? Is the tool maker the liable group or the actual end user? So those are probably my top four red flags. But I think ethics is probably my biggest place because just because we can do something from an ethical standpoint doesn’t mean we should. Jeanine Wright: Yeah, if I can respond to both of those points. I mean, one from a legal perspective, just to be very clear, I mean, we are always pulling from multiple different models and always pulling from multiple different sources. And we even have data sources that we license or use for single source of truth on certain pieces of information. So we’re always pulling things together from multiple different sources. We also have built into our process, you know, internal QAing and checking to make sure that we’re not misappropriating the name or likeness of any existing known personality or character. We are creating original personalities there. We design their voice from scratch. We design their look from scratch. So we’re not on our personality side, we’re not pulling or even taking inspiration from existing intellectual property that’s already out there in creating these personalities. On the ethical side, I agree. I mean, when we came out of stealth, we came out of stealth in September. There was certainly quite a bit of backlash from folks in my—I previously co-founded a company in the audio space. I mean, there’s been many rounds of layoffs in audio and in many other parts of the entertainment industry. So I’m very sensitive to the feedback around, like, is this job displacement? I mean, I do think that the CEO of NVIDIA said it right when he said, you’re likely not going to lose your job to AI, but you will lose your job to somebody who knows how to use AI. I think these tools are transforming the way that content is made and that the faster that people can embrace this tooling, the more likely they’re going to be having the kinds of roles that they want in, you know, in content creation and storytelling in the future. And we are hiring. I’m hiring AI video creators, AI audio creators. I’m hiring AI developers. So people who are looking for those roles, I mean, please reach out to me, we would love to work with you and we’d love to grow with you. We also take the ethics very seriously. For the last few months or so, I’ve met regularly with an ethicist, we talk about all sorts of issues around, you know, is designing AI-generated people, you know, good for humanity? And what about authenticity and transparency and deception, and how are we in building in this space going to avoid some of the problems that we’ve seen with things like social media and other forms of technology? So we keep that very top of mind and we try to build on our own internal values-based system and, you know, continue to elevate and include the humanity as part of the conversation. Ken Suzan: Thank you, Janine. Janine, some argue that AI content pipelines will level the field for filmmaking, giving independent creators access to tools that were once available only to major studios. Is that the future you envision? Jeanine Wright: I do think that with AI you will see an incredible democratization of access to technology and access to these capabilities. So I do think, you know, rise of independent filmmakers, you won’t have as many people who are sitting on a brilliant idea for the next fantastic script or movie that just cannot get it made because they will be able to with these tools, get something made and out there, at least to get the attention of somebody who could then decide that they want to invest in it at a studio kind of level in the future. The other thing that I think is really interesting is that I think, you know, AI will empower more niche content and more creators who can thrive in micro-communities. So it used to be because of this hit generation business model, everything needed to be made for the masses and a lot of content for niche audiences and micro-communities was neglected because there was just no way to make that content commercially viable. But now, if you can leverage AI—we make a pollen report podcast in 300 markets, you know, nobody would have ever made that before, but it is very valuable information, a very valuable piece of content for people who really care about the pollen in their local community. So there’s all sorts of ways that being able to leverage AI is making it more accessible both to the creator and to the audience that is looking for content that truly resonates with them. Ken Suzan: Mark, let’s talk about the legal landscape right now. If someone creates an AI-generated performance that closely resembles a living actor without their consent, what legal recourse does that actor have? Mark Stignani: Well, I mean, I think we can go back to the OpenAI Scarlett Johansson thing where, you know, if it’s simply—well, the “walks like a duck, quacks like a duck” type of aspect there. You know, I think it’s pretty straightforward that they need to walk it back. I mean, the US doesn’t have moral rights, really, but there’s a public visage right, if you will. And so, one of the things that I find predominantly useful here is that these actors likely have rights of publicity there, we probably have a Lanham Act false endorsement claim, and you know, again, if the performance is not parody, and it’s so close to the original performance, we probably have a copyright discussion. But again, all of these laws predate the use of AI, so we’re going to probably see new sets of law. I mean, we’re probably going to see “resurrection” frameworks, we’ll probably have frameworks for synthetic actors and likenesses, but the rules just aren’t there yet. So, unfortunately, your question is largely predictive versus well-settled at this point. Ken Suzan: Janine, your company works with AI actors. How do you navigate the questions of consent and likeness compensation when creating digital performers? Jeanine Wright: I mean, if we—so first of all, if we were to work with a person who is an existing real-life person or was an existing real-life person, then we would work with them to license their name and likeness or their voice or whatever aspects of it we were going to use in creating content in partnership with them. Not typically our business model; we are, as I said, designing all of our personalities from scratch and making all of our content originally. So, we’ve not had to do that historically. Now, you know, the flip side is: can I license my characters as if they’re similar to living characters? Like will I be able to license the name and likeness and voice of my AI-generated personalities? I think the answer is yes and we’re already starting to do that. Ken Suzan: Let’s just switch gears into ethics and AI because I find this to be a really fascinating issue. I want to look at a hypothetical. And this is to both of you, Janine and Mark: an AI system creates a new performance by a beloved actor who passed away decades ago, and the actor’s estate authorizes it, but the actor was known to have expressed opposition to such technology during their lifetime. Is this ethical? Jeanine Wright: This feels like a Gifts, Wills, and Trusts exam question. Ken Suzan: It sounds like it, that’s right. Jeanine Wright: Throwing me back to my law school days. Exactly. What are your thoughts? It’d be interesting to see like who has the rights there. I mean, I think if you have the legal rights, the question is around, you know, is it ethical to go against what you knew was somebody’s wishes at the time? I guess the honest answer is I don’t know. It would depend a lot on the circumstances of the case. I mean, if we were faced with a situation like that where there was a discrepancy, we would probably move away from doing that content out of respect for the deceased and out of a feeling that, you know, if this person felt strongly against it, then it would be less likely that you could make that storytelling exceptional in some way—it would color it in a way that you wouldn’t want in the outcome. And I feel like there’s—I mean, certainly going forward and it’s already happening—there are plenty of people I think who have name, likeness, and voice rights that they are ready to license that wouldn’t have this overhang. Ken Suzan: Mark, your thoughts? Mark Stignani: Yeah, I mean, again, I have to kind of go back to our property law—the Rule Against Perpetuities. You know, from a property standpoint to AI rights and likenesses—since most of the digital replica contracts that I’ve reviewed generally do talk about things in perpetuity. But if it’s not written down for that actor and the estate is doing this—is it ethical? You know, that is the debate. Jeanine Wright: Well, gold star to you, Mark, for bringing up the Rule Against Perpetuities. There’s another one that I haven’t heard for many years. This is really taking me back to my law school days. Ken Suzan: It’s a throwback. Jeanine Wright: The other thing that’s really interesting is that this technology is really so revolutionary and new that it’s hard to even contemplate now what it is going to be in a decade, much less for people who have passed away to have contemplated what the potential for it could be today. So you could have somebody who is, perhaps, a deceased musician who expressed concerns about digital representations of themselves or digital music while they were alive. But now, the possibility is that you could recreate—certainly I could use my technology to recreate—that musician from scratch in a very detailed way, trained on tons of different available data. Not just like a digital twin or a moving image of them, but to really rebuild their personality from scratch, so that they and their music could be reintroduced to totally new generations in a very respectful and authentic way to them. It’s hard to know, with the understanding that that is possible, whether or not somebody who is deceased today would or would not agree to something like that. I mean, many of them might want, under those circumstances, for their music to live on. These deceased actors and musicians could live forever with the power of AI technology. Mark Stignani: Yeah, I really just kind of go to the whole—is deep-faking a famous actor the best way to preserve them or keep them live? Again, that’s a bit more of an ethical question because the deep fakes are getting good enough right now to create huge problems. Even zoom meetings in Hong Kong where a CFO was on a call with five synthetic actors who all looked like his coworkers and they sent a big check out based upon that. So again, the technology is getting good enough to fool people. Jeanine Wright: I think that’s right, Mark, but I guess I would just highlight the same way that it always has been: the ethical line isn’t AI versus human, the ethical line is about deception. Like, are you deceiving people? And if people know what it is that they’re getting and they’re choosing to engage with it, then I think it isn’t about the power of the technology. In our business, we have elected—not everybody has—but we have elected to be AI transparent. So we tell people when they listen to our show, we include it in our show notes, we include it on our socials. Even when we’re designing our characters to be very photo-realistic, we make an extra point to make sure that people know that this is AI-generated content or an AI personality. Like, our intention is not to deceive and to be candid. From a business model perspective, we don’t need to. I mean, there’s already people who know and understand that it is AI, and AI is different than people. Because it is AI, there’s all sorts of things that you can do with it that you would not be able to do with a real person. You know, we get people who ask us on the podcast side, we get all sorts of crazy funny requests. You know, people who say, “Can I text with this personality? Can I talk to them on the phone? Can they help me cook in the kitchen? Can they sing me Happy Birthday? Can they show up at my Zoom meeting today because I think my boss would love it?” You know, all sorts of different ways that people are wanting to engage with these characters. And now we’re in the process of rolling out real-time personalities so people will be able to engage with our personalities live. It is a totally different way that people are able to engage with content, and people can, as they choose, decide what kind of content they want to engage with. Ken Suzan: Jeanine and Mark, we’re coming to the end of this podcast. I would love to keep talking for hours but we have to stay to our timetable here. Last question: five years from now, what percentage of entertainment content do you predict will involve significant AI generation, and will audiences care about that percentage? Jeanine? Jeanine Wright: I mean, I would say 99.9%. I mean, already you’re seeing—I think YouTube did a survey—that it was like 90% of its top creators said that they’re using AI as material components of their content creation process. So, I think this will be the default way that content is created. And content that is not made with AI, you know, there’ll be special film festivals for non-AI generated content, and that will be a special separate thing than the thing that everybody is doing now. Ken Suzan: Mark, your thoughts? Mark Stignani: Yeah, I go a little lower. I mean, I think Jeanine is right that we’re seeing, especially in the low-quality content creation and like the YouTube shorts and things like that, you know, there’s so much AI being pushed forward that the FTC even acquired an “AI slop” title to it. I do think that disclosure will become normalized, that the industries will be pushed to say when something is AI and what is not. And I think it’s very much like, you know, do you care about quality or not? If you value the human input or the human factor in this, there will be an upper tier where it’s “AI-free” or low AI assistant. I think that it’s going to stratify because the stuff coming through the social media platforms right now—I can’t be on it right now just because there’s so much nonsense. Even my children, who are without much AI training at all, find it just too unbelievable for them. So, I think it will become normalized, but I think that we’re going to see a bunch of tiers. Ken Suzan: Well, Jeanine and Mark, this has been a fantastic discussion of an ever-evolving field in IP law. Thank you to both of you for spending time with us today on the IP Friday’s podcast. Jeanine Wright: Thank you so much for having me. Mark Stignani: Appreciate your time. Thank you again.

Five Eyes flags active exploitation of Cisco SD-WAN flaws. Ransomware incidents surge, but fewer victims are paying. The FTC eases its stance on COPPA to encourage age verification. Authorities in Poland and Germany charge 11 in a Facebook credential harvesting scheme. Top UK news outlets unite on AI licensing standards, as the UK touts gains in cyber resilience. Researchers say a hacker abused Anthropic's Claude to breach Mexican government networks. Gamers revolt over AI in game development. On our Industry Voices, we are joined by Linda Gray Martin, Chief of Staff and SVP, and Britta Glade, SVP of Content and Communities, from RSAC sharing what is new at RSAC 2026. In Moscow, a man is accused of impersonating an FSB officer to shake down the Conti ransomware gang.  Remember to leave us a 5-star rating and review in your favorite podcast app. Miss an episode? Sign-up for our daily intelligence roundup, Daily Briefing, and you'll never miss a beat. And be sure to follow CyberWire Daily on LinkedIn. CyberWire Guest Today on our Industry Voices, we are joined by Linda Gray Martin, Chief of Staff and SVP, and Britta Glade, SVP of Content and Communities, from RSAC sharing what is new at RSAC 2026. Selected Reading Cisco SD-WAN Is Actively Exploited by UAT-8616, Five Eyes Alliance Agencies Issue Warning (TechNadu) Ransomware payments dropped in 2025 as attack numbers reached record levels: Chainalysis (The Record) FTC Softens Enforcement of Rule Protecting Children Online, Ostensibly to Protect Children Online (Gizmodo) Poland Cybercrime Unit Uncovers Scheme Stealing 100,000 Facebook Logins (The 420) UK news giants form 'NATO for news' group to control AI scraping (Press Gazette) Government cuts cyber-attack fix times by 84% and launches new profession to protect public services (GOV.UK) Hacker Used Anthropic's Claude to Steal Sensitive Mexican Data (Bloomberg) AI Mistakes Are Infuriating Gamers as Developers Seek Savings (Bloomberg) Moscow man accused of posing as FSB officer to extort Conti ransomware gang (The Record) AIs can't stop recommending nuclear strikes in war game simulations (New Scientist) Share your feedback. What do you think about CyberWire Daily? Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts with us by completing our brief listener survey. Thank you for helping us continue to improve our show. Want to hear your company in the show? N2K CyberWire helps you reach the industry's most influential leaders and operators, while building visibility, authority, and connectivity across the cybersecurity community. Learn more at sponsor.thecyberwire.com. The CyberWire is a production of N2K Networks, your source for strategic workforce intelligence. © N2K Networks, Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a recent episode of the award-winning Consumer Finance Monitor podcast, Alan Kaplinsky was joined by Nick Bourke, Kate Griffin, and Ballard Spahr partner Joseph Schuster to discuss a groundbreaking new report from the Aspen Institute Financial Security Program: United We Stand: A National Strategy to Prevent Scams. The episode builds on Nick and Kate's prior appearance on the podcast last July, when the report was still in development. Now finalized, the report offers one of the most comprehensive frameworks to date for addressing what has become a systemic threat to American households and the broader financial system. The Scope of the Problem: A Systemic Threat Frauds and scams are no longer isolated consumer protection issues. According to the report, U.S. households are losing an estimated $196 billion annually to scams — roughly $1 billion every couple of days. One in five American adults reports having lost money to an online scam. As Nick Bourke explained, today's scams are: ·                 Technology-enabled ·                 Highly organized and industrialized ·                 Often operated by transnational criminal organizations ·                 Accelerating due to AI and faster payment systems The so-called scam "lifecycle" includes four stages: 1.     Lead – Hooking the victim 2.     Deceive – Building trust (often through impersonation or relationship-building) 3.     Bleed – Extracting funds 4.     Clean – Laundering proceeds, often through cryptocurrency or offshore channels Different sectors see only fragments of this lifecycle; social media platforms may see the "lead," financial institutions the "bleed," and law enforcement the "clean." That fragmentation allows criminals to scale operations while defenders remain siloed. Why Scams Are Rising Despite Heavy Investment As Kate Griffin noted, industry and government are investing heavily in prevention. Yet scams continue to grow. Why? ·                 Fragmentation across sectors: No single actor sees the entire attack sequence. ·                 Outdated reporting infrastructure: Federal systems at agencies like the FBI and FTC remain manual and technologically antiquated. ·                 Regulatory uncertainty: Financial institutions and technology platforms face unclear expectations about what data they can use and share. ·                 Speed of modern payments: Faster money movement means faster losses. Joseph Schuster emphasized that many financial institutions are strongly incentivized to prevent fraud as they often bear reputational and financial risk when scams succeed. But legal ambiguity, especially under statutes like the Fair Credit Reporting Act, can chill data-sharing and innovation. Core Recommendations from the Aspen Report The report outlines both high-level national reforms and granular operational improvements with more than 180 specific ideas. 1. Elevate Scam Prevention to a National Priority The report calls for: ·                 A designated federal lead (or "czar") to coordinate strategy ·                 A whole-of-government approach ·                 Clear national goals and metrics Without centralized leadership, enforcement and regulatory actions remain fragmented.  2. Modernize Law Enforcement Reporting Systems Federal reporting portals, including Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs), the FBI's complaint systems, and the FTC's databases, require modernization. The report recommends: ·                 Streamlined, automated reporting ·                 Backend data interoperability across agencies ·                 Advanced analytics and AI tools for enforcement 3. Establish Clear Duties to Act Paired with Safe Harbors One of the most important themes discussed was the need for: ·                 Clear expectations for banks, telecom companies, and digital platforms ·                 Safe harbors that protect companies when sharing scam intelligence in good faith Countries like Australia have already codified such frameworks. The U.S. has yet to establish similarly coordinated standards. 4. Build a Cross-Sector Information-Sharing Ecosystem Effective scam prevention requires: ·                 Exchange of scam indicators (malicious URLs, compromised phone numbers, device patterns) ·                 Interoperable information-sharing platforms ·                 Privacy-preserving architecture ·                 Legal clarity to mitigate antitrust and consumer reporting concerns Joseph noted that industry appetite for collaboration is strong but clarity and guardrails are essential. 5. Consider a U.S. National Anti-Scam Center The report explores the idea of a centralized "front door", potentially something like stopscams.gov, that would: ·                 Serve as a national reporting hub ·                 Provide victim resources ·                 Facilitate coordination among law enforcement ·                 Support public education campaigns Social Media and Platform Responsibility The discussion also addressed the evolving role of digital platforms. Scam activity frequently originates through: ·                 Paid advertisements ·                 Dating applications ·                 Direct messaging ·                 Fake investment websites Compared to banks, social media companies operate within a less clearly defined regulatory structure. Courts are increasingly developing theories of "platform liability," but statutory clarity is lacking. The report urges policymakers to define reasonable expectations for platforms — paired with safe harbors and practical tools that empower prevention rather than merely assign blame. What Happens Next? The key question: who implements this strategy? Kate Griffin emphasized that this is a whole-of-society problem requiring coordinated action by: ·                 Federal leadership ·                 Congress ·                 Financial institutions ·                 Telecom and digital platforms ·                 Law enforcement ·                 Civil society There have been encouraging developments, including: ·                 Treasury and State Department sanctions targeting transnational scam networks ·                 A joint DOJ–FBI–Secret Service initiative targeting Southeast Asian scam operations o   But much more remains to be done. Nick Bourke suggested that, one year from now, real success would include: ·                 A designated federal anti-scam lead ·                 A congressional commission ·                 Measurable national prevention goals ·                 Corporate adoption of formalized anti-scam strategies Joseph Schuster added that industry innovation is ongoing, particularly in artificial intelligence, biometrics, and authentication, but warned that fragmented state-level regulation could complicate progress. Key Takeaways Alan Kaplinsky closed the episode with several important observations: ·                 Fraud and scams are now a systemic threat, not a niche compliance issue. ·                 Prevention, not just reimbursement, must be the organizing principle. ·                 Coordination matters as much as authority. ·                 Good-faith companies need regulatory clarity, not just enforcement pressure. ·                 Reducing scams strengthens trust in the U.S. financial system and digital economy. The Aspen report reframes the debate. Rather than assigning blame, it calls for aligned incentives, shared responsibility, and coordinated national action. If the title of the report, United We Stand, becomes reality, the United States may finally begin to bend the curve on one of the most costly and fast-growing threats facing consumers today. For more insights on consumer financial services developments, visit Ballard Spahr's Consumer Finance Monitor blog and explore the full Aspen Institute report here. Consumer Finance Monitor is hosted by Alan Kaplinsky, Senior Counsel at Ballard Spahr, and the founder and former chair of the firm's Consumer Financial Services Group. We encourage listeners to subscribe to the podcast on their preferred platform for weekly insights into developments in the consumer finance industry.

Chris breaks down the backlash to Ring's Super Bowl “Search Party” ad, which aimed to help find lost pets but reignited privacy concerns over AI-powered neighborhood surveillance. He also explores the surge of AI-themed Super Bowl ads, Apple's delayed Siri overhaul, rising DDR5 RAM prices driven by AI demand, SpaceX's Crew-12 launch, and the record-breaking sale of a rare Pokémon card. -Want to be a Guest on a Podcast or YouTube Channel? Sign up for GuestMatch.Pro -Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Email Chris if you want to get in touch! Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page. Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes Get 1Password Full Summary – Main story — Ring Search Party: Chris summarizes Ring's first Super Bowl ad (viewed by “over 120 million”) which promoted “Search Party,” a feature that lets users upload a photo of a missing pet and alerts neighborhood Ring cameras if they spot it. He explains the ad was intended as wholesome but provoked fast backlash: viewers and privacy advocates (including the ACLU and lawmakers) warned the tech could be repurposed to track people. Chris recounts Ring's prior controversies (police partnerships, an FTC settlement in 2023 over employee access to videos) and says the ad brought those issues back into focus. He reports that four days after the ad, Amazon canceled a planned integration with Flock Safety (Amazon called it a resources-and-timing decision). He notes Search Party is opt-in for pets but emphasizes the potential scale of surveillance when aggregated across millions of Ring devices and that the underlying AI capability isn't going away. – Super Bowl AI ads and Anthropic vs. OpenAI: Chris says AI-related ads made up about 23% of Super Bowl commercials. He describes Anthropic's debut ads (titles like “betrayal, deception, treachery, and violation”) positioning Claude as ad-free for paying users and taking a shot at OpenAI's ad plans; Sam Altman criticized those ads as dishonest. He mentions Svedka ran a primarily AI-generated Super Bowl ad and that Anthropic saw a ~6.5% traffic jump and an ~11% rise in daily active users after the game. Chris frames the ads as a sign the AI assistant wars have moved to mainstream consumer marketing and raises the question of whether AI assistants will be ad-supported or paid/ad-free. – Sponsor spot: A lengthy GoDaddy sponsorship read with pricing and offers: economy hosting $6.99/month for a year with free domain, email, and SSL; WordPress hosting $12.99/month with same inclusions; domain names $11.99; GoDaddy website builder offers a 30-day free trial for certain plans. Chris urges listeners to use the provided promo links to support the show. – Apple March 4 event and Siri delay: Chris reports Apple confirmed a March 4 product launch (iPhone 17e, MacBook Pros with M5 Pro and M5 Max, an 8th-gen iPad Air and a 12th-gen iPad). He says the AI-powered Siri overhaul planned for iOS 26.4 hit testing snags and some features were pushed to iOS 26.5 in May and iOS 27 in September. He notes Apple claims Siri improvements are still coming in 2026 but have been repeatedly delayed, and frames Apple as focusing on hardware and on-device processing. – DDR5 RAM price surge: Chris covers a global memory shortage driven by AI data-center demand. He explains manufacturers shifted production to high-bandwidth AI memory with much higher margins, reducing consumer DDR supply and forcing adoption of DDR5. He gives figures: DDR5 64 GB kits rose from around $200 in mid-2025 to over $1,000 (a ~300% increase across six months, with another ~50% spike in the last month). He says inventories have fallen to about eight weeks and analysts don't expect meaningful relief until late 2027 or 2028. He warns PC builders and buyers to brace for higher upgrade and system prices. – SpaceX Crew-12 launch: Chris recounts NASA Crew-12 as a replacement following an earlier medical evacuation that left ISS short-staffed. He reports SpaceX launched four astronauts on Feb. 13 aboard a Falcon 9 with the Dragon capsule Freedom (liftoff at 5:15 AM EST) and docked on Valentine's Day. Crew named: NASA commander Jessica Mayer, NASA pilot Jack Hathaway, ESA mission specialist Sophie Adadott, and Russian cosmonaut Andrei (Andrei Fedoo/Fedu — host stumbles on the name). The mission is planned for eight months; the Falcon 9 first stage landed back at pad 40. Chris frames the launch as good news and notes ongoing reliance on SpaceX. – Pokémon card/collectibles auction: Chris discusses a record trading-card sale. He refers to Logan Paul and the Pikachu Illustrator card (one of 39 ever made). He mentions earlier reports of card sales (at first saying a card sold for “like six and a half million dollars,” then later saying Logan Paul sold one for “sixteen point five million dollars”) and then details a live auction via Golden in which the card sold for “sixty million four hundred ninety two thousand dollars,” called a new Guinness World Record for the most expensive trading card sold at auction. Chris notes Logan Paul bought his PSA 10 card in 2021 for $5.2M, the auction had about 97 bids, and the buyer was venture capitalist Adrien Scaramucci (who had the card placed on a $75,000 diamond necklace). Chris comments on collectors vs. investors, how wealthy buyers and influencers can drive pricing, and cautions that most fans shouldn't expect to find such returns. Show Links Ring Search Party – Official Feature Page Ring Super Bowl Ad Sparks Privacy Backlash Super Bowl 60 AI Ads: Anthropic, Svedka, and the AI Marketing Push SpaceX Launches NASA Crew-12 to the ISS Apple Confirms March 4 Event — Cheaper iPhone Expected DDR5 RAM Prices Surge Over 300% Amid AI Demand Logan Paul Pokémon Card Sets Record at Auction The post Ring Search Party Sparks Privacy Backlash #1858 appeared first on Geek News Central.

עו״ד יהודית פינטוב ועו״ד שאול זוסמן שירתו יחדיו לפני 15 שנה בטייסת 100 של חיל האויר. פינטוב עברה לאחר השירות לגור בלונדון וזוסמן עבר לניו יורק. אבל רק בשבוע שעבר הם נפגשו באקראי בניו יורק וגילו שמסלולי הקריירה שלהם לקחו את שניהם למקום מאוד ייחודי: מאבק בענקיות הטכנולוגיה ובהרס שהן זורעות בדמוקרטיות ברוב העולם המערבי. זוסמן מונה לפני 5 שנים על-ידי לינה קהאן, יו״ר ה-FTC האמריקאית ליועץ משפטי שהוביל כמה מהתביעות ההיסטוריות של הרשות נגד ענקיות הטכנולוגיה כמו פייסבוק ואמזון ופינטוב, שמובילה את האסטרטגיה בבית הספר למנהל עסקים של לונדון, החלה לחקור את הנזקים שהרשתות החברתיות גורמות לדמוקרטיה ולבני נוער. השבוע הצטרפו השניים מלונדון וניו יורק לשיחה בפודקאסט ה״מרקרים״ עם גיא רולניק על התרומה של הרשתות להצלחת מנהיגים כמו נתניהו, על חלקן באנטישמיות ובעיקר על מה שלא מבינים הצעירים הישראלים שהולכים לעבוד בגוגל ובמטא. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are the FTC’s 2026 priorities in the areas of consumer protection, privacy, and artificial intelligence? This panel will discuss FTC's enforcement, policymaking, and rulemaking priorities and how they may differ from those in the Biden Administration. The panel is happy to take questions from the audience in advance of the webinar. Please send any questions to matthew.sawtelle@fed-soc.org by February 12th.Featuring:Brian Berggren, Acting Associate Director, Division of Enforcement, Federal Trade CommissionSvetlana Gans, Partner, Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher, LLPTodd Zywicki, George Mason University Foundation Professor of Law, George Mason University, Antonin Scalia Law School(Moderator) Asheesh Agarwal, Antitrust Consultant, American Edge Project and U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Doug McHoney (PwC's International Tax Services Global Leader) is joined by Wade Sutton, a PwC principal who leads the International Tax Team in PwC's Washington National Tax Services Practice and previously served as Deputy International Tax Counsel at the US Department of the Treasury. Doug and Wade discuss late-2025 Treasury and IRS guidance implementing cross-border provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), focusing on transition and compliance mechanics that surface on 2025 returns. They walk through Notice 2025-72 (CFC year-end conformity and short-period foreign tax allocation), Notice 2025-75 (final-year coordination of the 'hot potato' rule with Section 951A(2)(B) as the regime shifts to pro rata attribution), Notice 2025-77 (a 10% foreign tax credit haircut for taxes tied to certain previously taxed distributions), and Notice 2025-78 (limits on deduction-eligible export income for certain property and IP sales). They close with downstream interactions (especially CAMT and loss/FTC limitations) and how Pillar Two 'side-by-side' dynamics may influence structuring.

Xylitol, FTC Censorship, and the Oral–Heart Health Connection: Nathan Jones, CEO and founder of Xlear, Inc., makers of xylitol-based nasal and dental hygiene products, and a health freedom advocate, discusses Jones' ongoing legal battle with the FTC. He addresses the difficulty of making health claims for hygiene products (including toothpaste and nasal sprays), the role of “weasel words” in supplement marketing, and concerns about regulatory double standards versus pharmaceuticals. He also reviews xylitol's benefits for dental caries and respiratory/ear infections, including references to studies and public-health examples (e.g., Finland and a Belize program reducing dental caries costs), and Jones' efforts to encourage Utah to implement xylitol gum programs in schools. He contrasts fluoride's enamel-strengthening approach with xylitol's effect on the underlying bacterial cause of tooth decay, discusses Utah's fluoride policy change and claims about fluoride's limited benefit, and highlights a correlation between poor oral health and cardiovascular risk via inflammation and bacterial translocation into the bloodstream, including pathogens found in atherosclerotic plaque, and links also discussed for dementia and Parkinson's.  They close with commentary on health advocacy in the “MAHA era,” the challenges of entrenched federal bureaucracy, and Jones' preference for advocacy groups that teach industry to push back rather than comply.

Did you know your skincare products could be affecting your bones and overall health? In this episode, I sit down with Cynthia Garcia, founder of Rewritten Beauty, as we dive into how the skincare products you use can impact your bones and overall health. Cynthia shares insights from her extensive research into the science of aging and the dangerous endocrine disruptors found in common beauty products. We discuss why skincare isn't just about appearance but also plays a role in your body's health, including the hormonal balance critical to maintaining strong bones.  Cynthia explains how aging (zombie) cells deplete collagen and cause inflammation in the skin and offers a revolutionary solution that not only targets these zombie cells but also helps regenerate new, healthy skin.  Plus, we talk about how to create a healthy skincare ritual that supports both beauty and well-being. You won't want to miss Cynthia's practical tips for avoiding harmful ingredients and rewriting the narrative around aging.   "I knew we had to rewrite the story about aging first and foremost, then we had to give people a great product." ~ Cynthia Garcia   In this episode: - [02:40] - The statement that started it all - [04:05] - One of the causes of aging and the role of zombie cells - [05:37] - The prevalence and dangers of endocrine disruptors in beauty products - [11:35] - The "Rewritten" approach to clear zombie cells and rejuvenate skin - [21:09] - Bathroom cabinet audit + skincare rituals for beauty and well-being - [26:14] - Lessons from Cynthia's experience: How to rewrite your story  - [36:23] - The importance of community for transforming your life - [41:52] - Details about Cynthia's coaching programs    Resources mentioned - If you want to try Rewritten's anti-aging senolytic serum, head to rewrittenbeauty.com and use code HAPPYBONES for 15% off — or subscribe and stack the code for 30% off for life - Fullscript supplements at a discounted price- https://tinyurl.com/supplementsforless - Happy Bones Club (Margie's membership) - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/bones-club   More about Margie - Website - https://margiebissinger.com/  - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/  - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en    DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast. *In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.

The Trump Administration challenges based on DEI continue. Join David Fortney and Nita Beecher as they discuss the latest developments, including the FTC letter warning 42 law firms about participating in the Mansfield Certification program; the EEOC's subpoena enforcement litigation filed against several large employers challenging their failure to provide detailed information on DEI programs; and, DOJ's litigation claims against state of Minnesota's affirmative action requirements. Contact Fortney & Scott: Tweet us at @fortneyscott Follow us on LinkedIn Email us at info@fortneyscott.com Thank you for listening! https://www.fortneyscott.com/

 Cyber threats don't just target large corporations, small and mid-sized businesses are often the most vulnerable. In this episode, Julina and cybersecurity expert Sam Disraelly, CEO of Your Tech Department, explore the financial, legal, and reputational risks business owners face and the proactive steps that can significantly reduce exposure. If you own a business, serve clients, or manage a team, this conversation is essential listening. Timestamps:04:00 – One click can cost hundreds of thousands08:30 – The “blast radius”: how one employee mistake spreads11:30 – Why small & mid-sized businesses are prime targets (10–100 employees)17:30 – What ransomware actually looks like in real life18:20 – The 170-day problem: hackers lurk before they strike21:00 – The true cost of a breach (downtime, legal, PR, reputation)24:00 – FTC reporting requirements & legal exposure31:00 – The NIST framework: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, Recover32:30 – The non-negotiables: your cybersecurity “stack”36:20 – The cloud myth: Microsoft's shared responsibility model37:45 – Cyber insurance: what most business owners misunderstand41:30 – How to vet your IT provider44:30 – Cybersecurity as fiduciary responsibility48:20 – What to do in the first 24 seconds of a breach53:20 – Emerging risks: AI, shadow IT & data ownershipThe information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. The statements and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the author. PWP cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any statements or data. For current PWP information, please visit the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov by searching with PWP's CRD #290180

On today's episode of AD Nauseam, Amy and Daniel explain when trade names can be treated as advertising claims and challenged as misleading, focusing on how the FTC and NAD handle expressly false versus implied claims. They highlight key cases, especially in health and wellness, and offer practical guidance on when bold or hyperbolic names are allowed and when a name change may be required.Questions & Comments: amudge@bakerlaw.com or dkaufman@bakerlaw.com

Steve Hayes is joined by Jonah Goldberg, David French, and Megan McArdle to discuss Stephen Colbert's “pulled” interview with Texas U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico and whether the Trump administration is seriously considering bringing back the Fairness Doctrine. Plus: Are military strikes on Iran imminent? The Agenda:—The FCC and equal time rules—Should the government control airwaves?—FTC's threat to Apple News—Military escalation with Iran—Plausibility of regime change—NWYT: Going to the moon? Show Notes:—Paul Matzko's The Radio Right—Megan McArdle's podcast The Dispatch Podcast is a production of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Dispatch⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a digital media company covering politics, policy, and culture from a non-partisan, conservative perspective. To access all of The Dispatch's offerings—including access to all of our articles, members-only newsletters, and bonus podcast episodes—⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you'd like to remove all ads from your podcast experience, consider becoming a premium Dispatch member ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠by clicking here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of PWTorch ‘90s Pastcast, Patrick Moynahan and Alex McDonald discuss issue #374 of the PWTorch including all the mostly good and some bad of WCW SuperBrawl VI featuring two cage matches, WWF files a formal FTC complaint against TBS, Flair wins the title as Miss Elizabeth turns on Savage, and much more. Contact us with questions, reactions, and more at torchpastcast@gmail.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/pwtorch-dailycast--3276210/support.

A federal judge vacates the FTC's expanded premerger notification rules. Humana makes a significant primary care acquisition. And new data show primary care telehealth use has stabilized after its pandemic peak.These stories and more on today's episode of The Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did you know that bone loss doesn't start in your bones but often starts with hidden inflammation? In this episode, you'll learn why bone density loss is often a downstream effect of systemic inflammation and how identifying root causes can shift your results. Today's guest, Dr. Ann Shippy, explains the connection among autoimmunity, nutrient absorption, and the body's repair mechanisms, and shares practical strategies to calm inflammation naturally. By understanding the underlying biological drivers of bone loss, you can move beyond symptom management and begin rebuilding resilience from the inside out. This conversation offers a powerful reminder that stronger bones come from restoring whole-body balance and not just focusing on calcium.   About the Guest: Dr. Ann Shippy is a board-certified Internal Medicine physician and certified Functional Medicine practitioner based in Austin, Texas. With a background in chemical engineering and a successful career at IBM, she transitioned to medicine after facing complex health challenges. This experience fuels her passion for uncovering and addressing the root causes of illnesses. Her work centers on four key areas of expertise: longevity; health span; improving outcomes through personalized, data-driven care; and preconception support for couples preparing to conceive the healthiest baby possible. Using advanced testing and epigenetic insights, Dr. Ann empowers patients to activate the body's innate ability to heal, thrive, and even reverse chronic conditions. Dr. Ann authored The Preconception Revolution, a hope-filled guide that empowers couples to take control of their fertility and future family health.    "The things that help you help your bones are going to help the rest of you as well." ~ Dr. Ann Shippy   In this episode - [05:21] - Inflammation and bone loss connection - [07:06] - Telltale signs of chronic inflammation - [13:50] - Lab testing that reveals root causes - [24:05] - Dr. Ann's process for helping patients heal - [29:11] - Health impacts of homocysteine - [33:38] - How to work with Dr. Ann - [34:50] - The importance of addressing inflammation - [37:05] - A book that empowers couples to take control of their fertility - [42:35] - Testing for toxins and environmental triggers   Resources mentioned - The Preconception Revolution by Dr. Ann Shippy - thepreconceptionrevolution.com - Dr. Ann Shippy's websites  - annshippymd.com and everybabywell.com  - Osteoporosis Exercises to Strengthen Your Bones and Prevent Fractures - http://tinyurl.com/osteoporosisexercises  - Happy Bones Club (Margie's membership) - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/bones-club   More about Margie - Website - https://margiebissinger.com/  - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/  - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en    DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast. *In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.

A messy battle in the self-cleaning litter box market has spilled into federal court. Meowant alleges that rival PetPivot enlisted TikTok influencers to post fake or misleading reviews claiming Meowant's products malfunction — while directing viewers to PetPivot's TikTok Shop. The complaint asserts unfair competition, false advertising, defamation, trademark dilution, and tortious interference, and seeks injunctive relief and damages. In this episode, we unpack what the case signals for brands working with influencers. Even if a company doesn't script or directly control influencer content, regulators like the FTC and NAD have made clear that brands can still be held responsible. The dispute serves as a reminder that influencer oversight, clear guidance, and monitoring aren't just best practices — they may be critical to staying out of court. Hosted by Simone Roach. Based on a blog post by Gonzalo E. Mon.

This week we talk about mass surveillance, smart doorbells, and the Patriot Stack.We also discuss Amazon, Alexa, and the Super Bowl.Recommended Book: Red Moon by Benjamin PercyTranscriptIn 2002, in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, the US government created a new agency—the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, operating under the auspices of the US Department of Homeland Security, which was also formed that year for the same general reason, to defend against 9/11-style attacks in the future.As with a whole lot of what was done in the years following the 9/11 attacks, a lot of what this agency, and its larger department did could be construed as a sort of overcompensation by a government and a people who were reeling from the first real, large-scale attack within their borders from a foreign entity in a very long time. It was a horrific event, everyone felt very vulnerable and scared, and consequently the US government could do a lot of things that typically would not have had the public's support, like rewiring how airports and flying works in the country, creating all sorts of new hurdles and imposing layers of what's often called security theater, to make people feel safe.While the TSA was meant to handle things on the front-lines of air transportation, though, X-raying and patting-down and creating a significant new friction for everyone wanting to get on a plane, ICE was meant to address another purported issue: that of people coming into the US from elsewhere, illegally, and then sticking around long enough to cause trouble. More specifically, ICE was meant to help improve public safety by strictly enforcing at times lax immigration laws, by tracking down and expelling illegal immigrants from the country; the theory being that some would-be terrorists may have snuck into the US and might be getting ready to kill US citizens from within our own borders.There's not a lot of evidence to support that assertion—the vast majority of terrorism that happens in the US is conducted by citizens, mostly those adhering to a far-right or other extremist ideologies. But that hasn't moved the needle on public perception of the issue, which still predominantly leans toward stricter border controls and more assiduous moderation of non-citizens within US borders—for all sorts of reasons, not just security ones.What I'd like to talk about today is an offshoot of the war on terror and this vigilance about immigrants in the US, and how during the second Trump administration, tech companies have been entangling themselves with immigration-enforcement agencies like ICE to create sophisticated surveillance networks.—In mid-July of 2025, the US Department of Defense signed one of its largest contracts in its history with a tech company called Palantir Technologies. Palantir was founded and is run by billionaire Peter Thiel, who among other things is generally considered to be the reason JD Vance was chosen to be Trump's second-term Vice President. He's also generally considered to be one of, if not the main figure behind the so-called Patriot Tech movement, which consists of companies like SpaceX, Anduril, and OpenAI, all of which are connected by a web of funding arms and people who have cross-pollinated between major US tech companies and US agencies, in many cases stepping into government positions that put them in charge of the regulatory bodies that set the rules for the industries in which they worked.As a consequence of this setup and this cross-pollination, the US government now has a bunch of contracts with these entities, which has been good for the companies' bottom lines and led to reduced government regulations, and in exchange the companies are increasingly cozy with the government and its many agencies, toeing the line more than they would have previously, and offering a lot more cooperation and collaboration with the government, as well.This is especially true when it comes to data collection and surveillance, and a great deal of that sort of information and media is funneled into entities like Palantir, which aggregate and crunch it for meaning, and then send predictions and assumptions, and make services like facial-recognition technologies predicated on their vast database, available to police and ICE agents, among others such entities.There has been increasingly stiff pushback against this melding of the tech world with the government—which has always been there to some degree, but which has become even more entwined than usual, of late—and that pushback is international, even long-time allies like Canada and the EU making moves to develop their own replacements for Amazon and Google and OpenAI due to these issues, and the heightened unpredictability and chaos of the US in recent years, but it's also evident within the US, due in part to Trump's moves while in office, but also the on-the-ground realities in places like Minneapolis, where ICE agents have been brutalizing and blackbagging people, sometimes illegal immigrants, sometimes US citizens, usually non-white US citizens, and the ICE agents are being rewarded, getting bonuses, for beating up and kidnapping and in some cases murdering people, whether or not any of these people are actually criminals—and it's illegal to do that kind of thing even if they are criminals, by the way.All of which sets the scene for what happened following the Super Bowl, this year.Ring is a home security and smart home device company that is best known for its line of smart doorbells, but which also makes all sorts of security cameras and other alarm system devices.Even though smart doorbells, complete with cameras and other sorts of functionality, existed before Ring, this company basically created the smart doorbell industry as it exists today back in 2014, when it received a round of equity investment and changed its named from Doorbot to Ring. It was bought by Amazon four years later, in 2018, for a billion dollars.One of Ring's premier features is related to its camera: you can use your phone or other smart home device to see who's at your door when they ring the bell, but it can also be set to record when it detects movement, which makes it easy to check and see who stole your Amazon package from your porch when you weren't at home, for instance, and resultingly Ring door camera footage has become fundamental to reporting, and on occasion pursuing, some types of crime.As a direct result of that utility, Ring introduced its Neighbors service in mid-2018, this service serving as a sort of social network that allows Ring device users to discuss local issues, especially those related to safety and security, anonymously, while also allowing them to share photos and videos taken by their devices. This service also created relationships with local law enforcement, and allowed police to jump onto the network and request footage from Ring customers, if they thought these doorbell cams might have photos or video of someone escaping with a stolen car, for instance, which might then help the police catch that crook.It's generally assumed that Amazon probably bought Ring, at least in part, to entrench itself as the lord of the internet of things world, as it launched its Amazon Sidewalk platform in 2020, which allowed all Amazon devices, including Ring devices, to share a wireless mesh network, all of them communicating with each other and all using Amazon's Alexa as an interface.In 2023, Ring was sued by the FTC for $5.8 million because it allowed its employees and contractors to access private videos by failing to have basic security and privacy features in place—so not only could any Ring employee view their customer's private video feeds, hackers could easily access all this media and data, as well. Just one example surfaced in that lawsuit shows that a Ring employee viewed thousands of video recordings of at least 81 different female users over the course of a few months in 2017.So Amazon was building a surveillance network that worked really well, in the sense that it was predicated on popular, at times quite useful devices that people seemed to love, but which was also quite leaky, giving all sorts of people access to these supposedly private feeds, and it was shared with law enforcement via that social network. It's also been alleged that Ring (and Amazon) have used users' footage without further permission for things like facial recognition and AI training. Their partnership with police agencies also allegedly created incentives for the police to encourage citizens to buy Ring cams and other security devices for their homes, creating perverse incentives. And again, these devices connect wirelessly to other internet of things devices, expanding their reach and the potential for abuse of collected user data.In late 2025, Ring announced a new partnership with Flock Safety, a company that's best known for its security offerings, including automated license plate readers and gunshot detector systems.These are mass surveillance tools used by some governments and law enforcement entities, and they use cameras and microphones to capture license plates, people's faces, and sounds that might be gunfire and aggregate that data to be used by police, neighborhood associations, and in some cases private property owners.This sort of technology is incredibly useful to companies like Palantir, which again, aggregates and crunches it, on scale, and then shares that information with police, ICE, and other such agencies.These tools can sometimes help flag areas where guns are being fired or where crimes are being committed, but they're also imperfect and at times biased against some groups of people and areas, and some data show that not only is crime not reduced by the presence of these systems, but there's a fair bit of evidence that this data often falls into the hands of hackers or is used by employees for nefarious, stalkery purposes, as was the case with Ring's cameras. So most civil liberties groups, like the ACLU and the Electronic Frontier Foundation are vehemently against them, but governments like the second Trump administration like them, because they create a surveillance mesh they can tap into and use for, for instance, figuring out where to deploy ICE agents, or, in theory at least, spying on your political enemies or ex-spouses for abuse or blackmail purposes.Ring's late-2025 announcement wasn't widely reported, but in early 2026 the company bought a Super Bowl ad to announce a new feature called Search Party, enabled by their partnership with Flock.The ad showed a neighborhood coming together to find a lost dog, using the web of doorbell cameras on all the homes in the area to track the dog and figure out where it went—all the cameras activated at once to create a surveillance mesh of live footage.This ad landed with a resounding thud,, as to many people it felt more menacing than heartwarming, the new feature overtly raising the potential that government agencies, including ICE, could tap into it to surveil and track their neighbors. The response was so negative that Ring quickly issued a statement saying that it was no longer moving forward with its Flock partnership, attempting to reassure its customers that “integration never launched, so no Ring customer videos were ever send to Flock Safety.”This result is notable in part because it's a rare instance of a major tech company backtracking on a major feature decision due to public backlash, but also because it suggests backlash against ICE is reverberating through other aspects of life and interconnected industries.Ring device users mostly buy these things for their surveillance capabilities, but the increasing, and increasingly hostile and violent acts committed by members of ICE seem to have nudged the conversation so that folks are more worried about these agents than about the porch pirates and other criminals that these devices and this partnership could ostensibly help them identify.It's too early to say what this might mean for the burgeoning patriot stack of tech companies and government agencies, but it does suggest there are limits to what people will put up with, even when those in charge are adhering to a playbook that has typically worked well for them, in the past, and the devices and services they're using to build their surveillance network are otherwise beloved by those who use them.Show Noteshttps://restofworld.org/2026/big-tech-backlash-alternatives-upscrolled/https://europeancorrespondent.com/en/r/trumps-power-switchhttps://www.authoritarian-stack.info/https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/11/realestate/smart-home-cameras-nest-ring-privacy.htmlhttps://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2026/02/platforms-bend-over-backward-to-help-dhs-censor-ice-critics-advocates-say/https://www.theverge.com/report/879320/ring-flock-partnership-breakup-does-not-fix-problemshttps://www.theverge.com/news/878447/ring-flock-partnership-canceledhttps://www.404media.co/with-ring-american-consumers-built-a-surveillance-dragnet/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Immigration_and_Customs_Enforcementhttps://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/children-of-color-projected-to-be-majority-of-u-s-youth-this-yearhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ring_(company)https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flock_Safetyhttps://www.wired.com/story/ice-expansion-across-us-at-heres-where-its-going-next/https://www.wired.com/story/social-security-administration-appointment-details-ice/https://www.wired.com/story/security-news-this-week-ring-kills-flock-safety-deal-after-super-bowl-ad-uproar/https://www.wired.com/story/ice-crashing-us-court-system-minnesota/https://www.wired.com/story/palantir-ceo-alex-karp-employee-questions-on-ice/https://www.wired.com/story/inside-the-ice-forum-where-agents-complain-about-their-jobs/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letsknowthings.substack.com/subscribe

Send a textWhy are once-booming D2C brands like The Honest Company and Traeger pulling out of direct-to-consumer—and what does it mean for your business? In this episode, Mark Goldhart and Trevor Crump break down real-time e-commerce challenges, from Meta ad bugs to the shifting economics of retail vs. online sales. They discuss how consumer behavior and marketing efficiency are evolving, and why clinging to old tactics could stall your growth. Plus, they share insights on authentic user-generated content, the rise of live selling, and what every brand needs to know to stay profitable in today's changing landscape.Connect with The Unstoppable Marketer® on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, X, and YouTube @unstoppablemarketerpodcast, and let us know how you're telling your brand story this year!00:13 – Online advertising has been harder since 2012  01:55 – Meta bugs impacting performance  02:54 – Waiting before making ad changes  06:42 – UGC and AI ad trends  08:23 – FTC risks with AI testimonials  12:17 – Honest Company shuts D2C  16:31– Honest Company's billion-dollar valuation  35:16 – Adjust strategy for new growth

Au programme :Les US en ce moment: this is fineTikTok est toujours aussi populaire aux USLe reste de l'actualité : Apple event, Mistral en Suède, OpenClaw chez OpenAILe podcast dont je parle en intro: https://www.radiofrance.fr/franceculture/podcasts/questions-du-soir-le-debat/les-annees-30-nous-aveuglent-elles-8094566Infos :Animé par Patrick Beja (Bluesky, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok).Co-animé par Marion Doumeingts (Instagram, Bluesky, Twitter).Co-animé par Benoît Curdy (X, Niptech)Produit par Patrick Beja (LinkedIn) et Fanny Cohen Moreau (LinkedIn).Musique libre de droit par Daniel BejaLe Rendez-vous Tech épisode 653 – This is fine – FTC, DHS, Pentagon, TikTok USLiens :---Liens :

Listen to a recap of the top stories of the day from 9to5Mac. 9to5Mac Daily is available on iTunes and Apple's Podcasts app, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast players. Sponsored by Stuff: Stuff helps you get everything out of your head and into a simple, elegant system—closing open loops and reducing mental stress. Use code 9TO5 at checkout for 50% off your first year. New episodes of 9to5Mac Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they're available. Stories discussed in this episode: FTC chair questions Tim Cook over alleged Apple News bias Tesla is still working on CarPlay support, but here's why it hasn't launched yet Apple launching 5+ new products over the next several weeks Report: Apple's upcoming low-cost MacBook will come in 'fun colors,' launch next month Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Overcast RSS Spotify TuneIn Google Podcasts Subscribe to support Chance directly with 9to5Mac Daily Plus and unlock: Ad-free versions of every episode Bonus content Catch up on 9to5Mac Daily episodes! Don't miss out on our other daily podcasts: Quick Charge 9to5Toys Daily Share your thoughts! Drop us a line at happyhour@9to5mac.com. You can also rate us in Apple Podcasts or recommend us in Overcast to help more people discover the show.

Howie Kurtz on the Homeland Security funding remaining the major obstacle in the ongoing government shutdown, journalist Don Lemon getting indicted for his actions at a protest in Minnesota, and the FTC investigating Apple News for potential bias. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After Nina “sings” the theme song to The Electric Company and Cori talks about his cats, we discuss last week's news: gender-critical lawyer Glenna Goldis's hiring by the FTC post-firing by NY State Attorney General Letitia James, and detransitioner Fox Varian's $2M lawsuit victory. Living up to our promise of quality content, we look up things on the Internet while recording. Then it's time to talk Terffles: artisanal chocolates handmade (not handmaiden!) by a canceled TERF witch but inclusive of everyone. Will the Urbana Farmer's Market accept Nina's delicious Amaretto Amarena Amazeballs? Plus: “The age of Free Software is ending,” DEI parasites, PaleGray Labs, team names for a cat Cute-Off, Cory's real name, and more!Links:Glenna Goldis hired by FTC: https://www.dailywire.com/news/trump-admin-hires-glenna-goldis-lawyer-fired-by-letitia-jamesFox Varian $2M lawsuit: https://www.economist.com/united-states/2026/02/06/lawsuits-over-transgender-medicine-for-minors-could-be-hugeBenjamin Ryan, journalist: http://www.benryan.net/ASPS Statement: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/health-policy/positions/2026-gender-surgery-children-adolescents.pdfAMA statement: https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2026-02-06/american-medical-association-says-gender-surgeries-for-minors-should-waitThe Banality of Stupid (2017): https://ninapaley.com/2017/03/23/the-banality-of-stupid/Hannah Ahrendt: https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/tag/banality-of-evilInformed Dissent podcast: https://informeddissentpodcast.substack.com/The Lunduke Journal: https://lunduke.com/Rhapsody in BlueVirtuoso tap dancing:Disabling Impairments cards: https://store.ninapaley.com/product/disabling-impairments/ Get full access to Heterodorx Podcast at heterodorx.substack.com/subscribe

Media Research Center President David Bozell exposes how "The Big Four" (Apple, Google, Yahoo, MSN) are secretly rigging your news feed. Discover the "curious case" of Newsweek's sudden revival, why Apple News has ghosted conservative outlets for 100 straight days, and how the FTC is finally getting involved. Plus, on a lighter note: meet Cosmo the Springer Spaniel, the newly appointed "Ambassador Dog" currently running the US Embassy in South Africa. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode of This Week in AML, Elliot and John unpack a wide-ranging set of global developments impacting financial crime compliance. They preview key agenda items from the FATF Plenary in Mexico City, including new mutual evaluations and technology-focused initiatives. The conversation also examines Transparency International's 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index, highlighting troubling downward trends among high-scoring democracies, including the U.S. Elliot and John also explore the EU's proposed sanctions package targeting Russian crypto activity, the FTC's latest ransomware oversight report, new OFAC actions related to Hezbollah, recent enforcement in the crypto fraud space, and ongoing gaps in U.S. regulation of the antiquities market. Additional topics include global efforts to combat illicit gold trafficking, Jersey's move toward comprehensive modern slavery legislation, and seasonal warnings about romance‑investment scams.

2026 could make or break Roblox. That's because the multi-billion dollar children's video game company is mired in dozens of private lawsuits on top of multiple probes from several state governments, the FTC and the DOJ. In this episode of The Capitol Forum Investigates, reporter Ethan Ehrenhaft sits down with Arjun Singh to talk about the future of Roblox in the wake of major allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse on its platform.Follow The Capitol Forum on Bluesky or Linkedin

In the episode of the Consumer Finance Monitor podcast we are releasing today, we examine what may be the most consequential development in New York consumer protection law in nearly half a century: the enactment of the New York State Fair Business Practices Act (the FAIR Act). Signed into law in December 2025 and taking effect on February 17, 2026, the FAIR Act represents the first comprehensive overhaul of New York General Business Law § 349 in almost 50 years. Long focused primarily on deceptive acts and practices, Section 349 has now been expanded to expressly prohibit unfair and abusive business practices as well—bringing New York law far closer to the federal UDAAP framework under the Consumer Financial Protection Act. To explore what changed, why it matters, and how the law will be enforced in practice, Alan Kaplinsky (founder and former leader of the Consumer Financial Services Group at Ballard Spahr LLP and now Senior Counsel and host of Consumer Finance Monitor) is joined by two senior officials from the New York Attorney General's Bureau of Consumer Frauds and Protection who were directly involved in shaping and implementing the statute: ·        Jane Azia, Chief of the Bureau of Consumer Frauds and Protection ·        Alec Webley, Assistant Attorney General and one of the attorneys who helped shepherd the FAIR Act through the legislative process What followed was a wide-ranging and unusually candid discussion of the statute's origins, scope, enforcement implications, and practical lessons for businesses operating in, or affecting, New York. From Deception to Unfairness and Abusiveness For decades, New York's consumer protection regime lagged behind most other states and federal regulators by focusing almost exclusively on deception. As Jane Azia explained, deception alone often fails to capture conduct that is plainly harmful to consumers, particularly where disclosures technically exist but are obscured, consumers are subjected to high-pressure tactics, or businesses exploit significant informational or power asymmetries. The FAIR Act closes those gaps by expressly prohibiting: ·        Unfair practices, modeled closely on the FTC's longstanding unfairness framework ·        Abusive practices, drawing heavily on more than a decade of CFPB enforcement experience Importantly, while the statute borrows from federal concepts of unfairness and abusiveness, New York is not bound to follow future CFPB reinterpretations. As Alec Webley emphasized, the legislature carefully chose its language, expressly incorporating only certain federal elements (such as the FTC's "substantial injury" concept) while deliberately declining to tether New York law to future federal regulatory shifts. Broader Scope Than Federal Law One of the most significant differences between the FAIR Act and federal consumer protection law is scope. Jane Azia pointed out that unlike the federal Consumer Financial Protection Act, which applies primarily to financial services, the FAIR Act applies to all business activity occurring in, or affecting consumers in, New York. That means unfair or abusive conduct by non-financial businesses now squarely falls within the Attorney General's enforcement authority. The statute also avoids many of the preemption constraints that can limit state enforcement against national banks under federal law, because it is a law of general application rather than a banking regulation. No Rulemaking—But Clear Signals The FAIR Act does not grant the Attorney General rulemaking authority, and the AG's office does not currently plan to issue formal regulations or written guidance. Instead, businesses should expect the meaning of "unfair" and "abusive" to be fleshed out through enforcement actions, settlements, and existing federal precedent. That said, the Attorney General has already identified categories of conduct likely to draw scrutiny, including: ·        Steering borrowers into unnecessarily costly repayment options ·        High-pressure sales tactics ·        Obscured or misleading pricing ·        Exploitation of consumers with limited English proficiency ·        Misleading marketing in health care, auto sales, and emerging financial products Several examples discussed on the podcast, including enforcement actions involving e-cigarettes, earned wage access products, and savings account practices, illustrate how the AG's office has already been applying unfairness and abusiveness theories under existing authority, and how the FAIR Act now allows those claims to be brought directly under state law. Remedies and Enforcement Tools The FAIR Act does not dramatically alter the remedies available to the Attorney General, but it reinforces a powerful enforcement arsenal, including: ·        Injunctive relief ·        Restitution ·        Civil penalties ·        Disgorgement ·        Expedited "special proceedings" that can allow the AG to move quickly in court to halt unlawful conduct As a reminder, recent amendments to Article 22-a of the general business law also significantly increased civil penalties for violations of section 349 occurring during disasters or abnormal market disruptions, an issue businesses should not overlook. Extraterritorial Reach and Coordination with Other Regulators The discussion also addresses a recurring compliance question: when New York law applies beyond New York's borders. In general, the statute applies where conduct occurs in New York or where New York consumers are harmed. It can also apply to out-of-state consumers harmed by New York-based businesses. By contrast, purely out-of-state conduct with no meaningful New York nexus typically falls outside the statute's reach. The episode also explores how the Attorney General coordinates with: ·        Other state attorneys general in multi-state investigations, ·        The New York Department of Financial Services, ·        The New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, and ·        Federal agencies such as the FTC. Even as federal consumer protection enforcement ebbs and flows, the states, and New York in particular, remain active and increasingly influential. Practical Takeaways for Businesses A central theme of the discussion was that the FAIR Act is not a reason to relax compliance efforts—quite the opposite. As Alec Webley noted, statutes like this create an opportunity for companies and their counsel to step back, reassess business practices, and ask hard questions: ·        Are consumers complaining about this practice? ·        Is it genuinely necessary to the business? ·        Does it obscure costs or risks? ·        Would the company be comfortable seeing it described on the front page of a major newspaper? Practices that may have survived under a narrow deception standard could now pose real enforcement risk under broader unfairness and abusiveness principles. Looking Ahead Both guests emphasize that the FAIR Act was drafted with care and restraint, and that early enforcement actions are likely to fall squarely within the statute's text and intent. At the same time, emerging technologies, particularly digital marketing, fine-print disclosures on mobile devices, and the use of AI, are clearly on the Attorney General's radar. The bottom line is clear: the FAIR Act marks a fundamental shift in New York consumer protection law. With its February 17, 2026 effective date now here, businesses operating in or affecting New York should be taking this development seriously by reviewing practices, strengthening compliance frameworks, and preparing for a more expansive and assertive enforcement environment. We will continue to track developments under the FAIR Act and report on key enforcement actions and interpretations as they unfold. Consumer Finance Monitor is hosted by Alan Kaplinsky, Senior Counsel at Ballard Spahr, and the founder and former chair of the firm's Consumer Financial Services Group. We encourage listeners to subscribe to the podcast on their preferred platform for weekly insights into developments in the consumer finance industry.

Confused about which osteoporosis supplements actually work and which ones may be doing more harm than good? In this episode, we clear up the supplement confusion as Dr. Kim Millman returns to discuss the most important supplements for osteoporosis and the common mistakes people make when taking them.  From calcium forms to magnesium ratios, vitamin D optimization, vitamin K2, genistein, and protein, we clarify what supports bone health and what could increase cardiovascular risk. Dr. Millman explains the "calcium paradox," why more calcium is not always better, and how to determine the right amount based on your lab values.  We also explore vitamin K's role in directing calcium into bones (and out of arteries), research on genistein compared with Fosamax, and why adequate protein is essential to prevent sarcopenia and bone loss. If you want evidence-based guidance on building stronger bones safely and effectively, this episode gives you exactly that.   "You really need to have enough protein to fuel your muscles. Without it, sufficient rebuilding is not possible." ~ Dr. Kim Millman   In this episode: - [02:01] - Best forms of calcium or other minerals (and what to avoid) - [05:01] - The calcium paradox: how much calcium is too much?  - [08:30] - Should you stop taking calcium if the CAC score is high? - [11:40] - Magnesium, zinc: types and correct ratios - [15:27] - Optimal vitamin D blood levels - [18:19] - Why vitamin K2 is essential for the bones - [24:45] - Genistein vs. Fosamax research - [30:22] - Protein, sarcopenia, and bone strength - [33:45] - Dr. Millman's consults, courses, and bone health programs   Resources mentioned - Restore & Rebuild: 100 Days to Healthier Bones - https://themillmanclinic.com/randr - use coupon code HappyS26100 for $100 discount - Certified Integrative Bone Health Practitioner Program - https://www.thebonehealthacademy.com  - Contact Dr. Millman's office - (408) 218- 9301 and DrKim@TheMillmanClinic.com - Get quality supplements at Margie's Fullscript dispensary for a discounted price - https://tinyurl.com/supplementsforless   More about Margie - Website - https://margiebissinger.com/  - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/  - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en    DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast. *In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.

ZeroDayRAT delivers full mobile compromise on Android and iOS. The UK warns infrastructure operators to act now as severe cyber threats mount. Russia moves to block Telegram. The FTC draws a line on data sales to foreign adversaries. Researchers unpack DeadVax, a stealthy new malware campaign, while an old-school Linux botnet resurfaces. BeyondTrust fixes a critical flaw. And in AI, are we moving too fast? One mild training prompt may be enough to knock down safety guardrails. Our guest is Omer Akgul, Researcher at RSA Conference, discussing his work on "The Case for LLM Consistency Metrics in Cybersecurity (and Beyond)." A pair of penned pentesters provoke a pricey payout.  Remember to leave us a 5-star rating and review in your favorite podcast app. Miss an episode? Sign-up for our daily intelligence roundup, Daily Briefing, and you'll never miss a beat. And be sure to follow CyberWire Daily on LinkedIn. CyberWire Guest Today we are joined by Omer Akgul, PhD, Researcher at RSA Conference, discussing his work on "The Case for LLM Consistency Metrics in Cybersecurity (and Beyond)." Selected Reading New ‘ZeroDayRAT' Spyware Kit Enables Total Compromise of iOS, Android Devices (SecurityWeek) NCSC Issues Warning Over “Severe” Cyber-Attacks Targeting Critical National Infrastructure (Infosecurity Magazine) Russian Watchdog Starts Limiting Access to Telegram, RBC Reports (Bloomberg) FTC Reminds Data Brokers of Their Obligations to Comply with PADFAA (FTC) Dead#Vax: Analyzing Multi-Stage VHD Delivery and Self-Parsing Batch Scripts to Deploy In-Memory Shellcode (secureonix) New ‘SSHStalker' Linux Botnet Uses Old Techniques (SecurityWeek) BeyondTrust Patches Critical RCE Vulnerability (SecurityWeek) Critics warn America's 'move fast' AI strategy could cost it the global market  (CyberScoop) Microsoft boffins figured out how to break LLM safety guardrails with one simple prompt (The Register) County pays $600,000 to pentesters it arrested for assessing courthouse security (Ars Technica) Share your feedback. What do you think about CyberWire Daily? Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts with us by completing our brief listener survey. Thank you for helping us continue to improve our show. Want to hear your company in the show? N2K CyberWire helps you reach the industry's most influential leaders and operators, while building visibility, authority, and connectivity across the cybersecurity community. Learn more at sponsor.thecyberwire.com. The CyberWire is a production of N2K Networks, your source for strategic workforce intelligence. © N2K Networks, Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's In the News.. a look at the top headlines and stories in the diabetes community. This week's top stories: T1D in the Olympics & Superbowl, Trump RX goes live, Ozempic pill available soon, tech updates from Medtronic, Beta Bionics, Eversense 365 and more! Announcing Community Commericals! Learn how to get your message on the show here. Learn more about studies and research at Thrivable here Please visit our Sponsors & Partners - they help make the show possible! Omnipod - Simplify Life All about Dexcom  T1D Screening info All about VIVI Cap to protect your insulin from extreme temperatures The best way to keep up with Stacey and the show is by signing up for our weekly newsletter: Sign up for our newsletter here Here's where to find us: Facebook (Group) Facebook (Page) Instagram Check out Stacey's books! Learn more about everything at our home page www.diabetes-connections.com  Episode transcription with links: Welcome! I'm your host Stacey Simms and this is an In The News episode.. where we bringing you the top diabetes stories and headlines happening now. A reminder that you can find the sources and links and a transcript and more info for every story mentioned here in the show notes. Quick reminder: We are just over one week from our first Moms' Night Out event of the year. While the plans are all set – the speakers, the vendors, the raffles and the fun is ready to go, it's always amazing how many people hear of these event last minute. That's fine, they're welcome! But if you're thinking of attending a future event – registration is open for We're going to Nashville next March 6-7 and Detroit in September – no need to wait. And we've got Club 1921 events for health care professionals and patient leaders in 6 cities this year! All the info is over at diabetes-connetionss.com events/   Okay.. our top story this week: XX Gotta be a quick shout out to some incredible T1D athletes – we had TWO in the super bowl this past weekend – Chad Muma of the New England Patriots and Logan Brown of the Seattle Seahawks AND there are at least two athletes with type 1 competing at the Winter Olympics. Hannah Schmidt competes in ski cross for Canada – she was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 12 years old.  Anna FarnSchadt Fernstäd a Czech skeleton racer diagnosed in 2022 after she'd already been to several Olympics. We wish them all the best!   https://english.radio.cz/skeleton-racer-anna-fernstadtova-overcoming-adversity-headfirst-down-ice-8876699 XX The government website TrumpRx.gov is live..  the website does not sell prescription drugs. Instead, it allows people to look up their drugs and then navigate to buy them elsewhere, either from a major drug company or a pharmacy. The 43 drugs listed on the site have prices ranging from $3 to over $5,500. TrumpRx does include warnings that the site may not be the best option to save money on prescriptions. Each product page advises: "If you have insurance, check your co-pay first — it may be even lower." For now, the website says its prices are for people paying with their own money, rather than going through insurance. The only insulin listed right now is Lilly's insulin lispro – and it's the same price as you'd find through Illy's insulin value program. I looked up diabetes meds.. For example, if you have an insurance co-pay of $25 a month for Farxiga, a drug often used for diabetes, you would be paying $182 on TrumpRx. As you can imagine, though ,this is complicated and as with most of our healthcare system, it may be good in some cases and not much help in other.  I'd suggest calling your local pharmacist or checking with your human resource dept. https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/06/health/trumprx-prescription-drug-prices-consumers.html XX Novo Nordisk will launch some doses of its oral semaglutide for diabetes under the brand name Ozempic pill in the second quarter of this year. The company said the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Ozempic tablets in three different doses. Novo says The new Ozempic name is intended to help patients and health care professionals more easily recognize the available treatment options for type 2 diabetes Semaglutide tablets have been available under the brand name Rybelsus Ruh BELL sis for diabetes since 2019 but with different dosing. The pill is also approved to reduce the risk of certain cardiovascular conditions in adults with type 2 diabetes who are at high risk for these events. The FDA had approved the new doses based on a bioequivalence study and the clinical trial data for Rybelsus, Novo said. https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/novo-launch-ozempic-pill-diabetes-second-quarter-this-year-2026-02-04/ XX https://www.contemporarypediatrics.com/view/early-screening-for-type-1-diabetes-found-effective-in-children XX Possible new way to identify and track the progress of type 1 diabetes before clinical onset. A recent study published in Science Advances described the application of subcutaneous microporous scaffolds. These are inserted and have been shown to  identify changes in cancer, multiple sclerosis, and T1D by capturing changes of immune cells over the course of a disease. This is a proof of concept study in mice.. so very early days. https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260204/Implantable-immune-scaffold-predicts-type-1-diabetes-weeks-before-symptoms.aspx XX A large global genetics study shows that many key drivers of Type 2 diabetes operate outside the bloodstream. In a major international project led in part by the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Helmholtz Munich in Germany, researchers linked hundreds of genes and proteins to the disease. The work, published in Nature Metabolism, points to a key challenge in diabetes research: the biology behind rising blood sugar does not play out the same way in every part of the body. It also shows why including people from many backgrounds matters, since genetic clues that stand out in one population may be faint or invisible in another. Huge study, 2.5 million people worldwide comparing patterns across seven tissues tied to diabetes and four global ancestry groups, then asked a simple question: what do you miss if you only measure blood? Across the seven tissues, the researchers found causal evidence pointing to 676 genes. Yet overlap with blood was limited: only 18% of genes with a causal effect in a primary diabetes tissue, such as the pancreas, showed a matching signal in blood. At the same time, 85% of genetic effects observed in diabetes-relevant tissues were completely absent from blood-based analyses. The findings lay out a roadmap for future research aimed at understanding the biological pathways underlying Type 2 diabetes and developing more effective treatments. https://scitechdaily.com/massive-global-study-rewrites-the-biology-of-type-2-diabetes/ XX Express Scripts settled the U.S. Federal Trade Commission's claims its insulin pricing practices violated antitrust and consumer protection laws, and agreed to changes aimed at lowering costs for patients, insurers and small pharmacies The settlement, first reported by Reuters, fits with that goal, and allows the FTC to pare down a case brought by the former Biden administration against Cigna's Express Scripts, UnitedHealth Group Inc's (UNH.N), Optum unit and CVS Health Corp's (CVS.N), CVS Caremark. The case against Optum and Caremark is ongoing. Pharmacy benefit managers, which set how drugs are covered by health insurance, have faced a decade of scrutiny from regulators and lawmakers over pricing practices. While the industry has already made reforms, the settlement gives the FTC power to enforce broader changes at Express Scripts. The 10-year agreement restricts Express Scripts' ability to engage in practices critics say contribute to high costs, like pocketing rebate payments from drugmakers based on the list price of drugs. The FTC estimates the agreement could save patients as much as $7 billion over a decade. https://www.reuters.com/world/cigna-settles-ftc-insulin-case-commits-overhauling-drug-pricing-2026-02-04/ XX Audio? Congress has passed bipartisan legislation to extend and strengthen the Special Diabetes Program (SDP), a cornerstone of Federal investment in type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. The President signed the legislation and it is now law. Extends the SDP through December 31, 2026, and increases funding from $160 million to $200 million annually. Strengthens overall funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) by $415 million. Increases diabetes research funding at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) by $10 million. Created by Congress and administered by the NIH, the SDP has contributed nearly $3.6 billion to T1D research and has played a role in nearly every major breakthrough in the field. A recent study conducted by Avalere Health shows that of the nearly 3.6 billion invested into the SDP by Congress since the establishment of the program, the Federal Government has realized $50 billion in healthcare savings through improved health outcomes from the use of SDP driven therapies and devices https://www.breakthrought1d.org/news-and-updates/congress-passes-bipartisan-extension-of-the-special-diabetes-program-securing-critical-t1d-research-funding/ XX Dexcom is rolling out what they're calling AI-enabled enhancements to Stelo, further transforming how users track and understand their glucose health. Expanded Smart Food Logging including a comprehensive nutrition database of more than 1M meals that provides a breakdown of calories, carbohydrates, protein, fat, dietary fibers, and more. More ways to meal track including text search, barcode scanning or taking a photo of the meal, creating a seamless and intuitive meal tracking solution. A redesigned Daily Insights feature which will introduce a new interface with more personalized recommendations. The newest features will launch nationwide in the coming weeks.  XX Beta Bionics has received a warning letter from the Food and Drug Administration following an inspection last year, the company disclosed on Friday. The diabetes technology company said in a securities filing that the warning letter concerns non-conformities with the company's quality management system, medical device reporting, and correction and removals. The warning letter has not yet been posted by the FDA.   The company said in the filing that it has already taken actions to improve the processes described in the warning letter, and it is working on a written response to the FDA.   The firm does not expect the warning letter to affect the planned launch of a new insulin patch pump by the end of 2027. Beta Bionics unveiled a prototype of the device, called Mint, last year at the American Diabetes Association's Scientific Sessions. The company also does not expect the warning letter to affect its financial results. https://www.medtechdive.com/news/beta-bionics-receives-fda-warning-letter/811140/?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Issue%3A+2026-02-04+MedTech+Dive+%5Bissue%3A81423%5D&utm_term=MedTech+Dive&fbclid=IwY2xjawPwhDZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFaUUcyYmNQWldjZ2xudElic3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHouF8M3IstTyslPRgeHWUWVVdOAGOtzPWt_yNFcj9eYruqSPz3e86Iwcbpt8_aem_7q4D97vJVjHKfEwvoyUpgw XX Sequel Med Tech is reviewing co-founder Dean Kamen's ties to Jeffrey Epstein after recently released documents revealed new details about the longstanding relationship between the two men. The documents show that Kamen visited Epstein's island, and remained in contact with him for years after Epstein was convicted of sex crimes involving minors. Kamen has not been accused of any wrongdoing. In a statement, Sequel Med Tech said the Manchester-based company is aware of the documents pertaining to Kamen and – quote - "Sequel's Board of Directors has unanimously decided to engage an external law firm to review these disclosures and provide recommendations aligned with our mission to serve people living with diabetes," Kamen has not issued a statement regarding his reported connection to Epstein.   https://www.bostonglobe.com/2026/02/04/metro/nh-dean-kamen-jeffrey-epstein-review/ https://www.bostonglobe.com/2026/02/04/metro/nh-dean-kamen-jeffrey-epstein-review/ https://www.nbcboston.com/news/local/nh-inventor-placed-on-leave-after-epstein-messages-surface-report-says/3888569/ XX Abbot reports 860 serious injuries linked to the recall of some of its glucose monitoring sensors. We told you about this recall late last year, these numbers are an FDA update.     Abbott said the sensors can provide incorrect glucose readings over extended periods, which could lead to users making dangerous treatment decisions, including eating excessive carbohydrates along with skipping or delaying insulin doses, potentially leading to serious health risks. The company said it has identified and resolved the cause of the issue, which relates to one production line among several that make Libre 3 and Libre 3 Plus sensors.   https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/abbott-recalls-glucose-sensors-after-seven-deaths-linked-faulty-readings-2026-02-04/ XX Updates from Medtronic & Senseonics – and a first from Nick Jonas.. right after this..   I'm excited to share that the FDA has cleared the MiniMed 780G system with the Instinct sensor, made by Abbott, for people with type 2 diabetes.  Medicare has also now approved coverage for the Instinct sensor for use with the MiniMed 780G system. This clearance and expanded coverage mean more people will have access to pairing our most advanced automated insulin delivery technology with the Instinct sensor, that offers a smaller, 15-day sensor experience.  They're also launching the MiniMed 780G system Pump Evaluation Program.  This program gives individuals living with diabetes the ability to try the full MiniMed 780G system at no cost for 30 days.† This includes the pump, the sensor of their choice, one month of infusion sets and reservoirs, everything but the insulin. They'll contact your doctor for you to get a prescription and get the process rolling. https://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/pump-evaluation-program XX Senseonics announced today that its Eversense 365 continuous glucose monitor (CGM) system received CE mark approval – that's European clearance.  This comes on the heels of the launch of Eversense 365 with Sequel Med Tech's twiist pump, marking the first pump integration for the CGM. Senseonics plans to launch Eversense 365 in Germany, Italy, Spain and Sweden in the coming months. Meanwhile, Senseonics continues to work toward an FDA investigational device exemption (IDE) submission for its next-generation Gemini transmitter-less CGM by the end of this year. https://www.drugdeliverybusiness.com/senseonics-ce-mark-eversense-365-cgm/ XX A huge shout out to Dr. Emily Blum, who just accomplished riding 100 miles in Antarctica for Breakthrough T1D! Despite having no direct connection to Type 1 Diabetes, Emily has been riding and fundraising for BreakthroughT1D for 10 years now. She is an integral part of the Georgia Ride team, training and riding many miles, and most importantly has raised tens of thousands of dollars to support the cause of ridding the world of T1D. She is surgeon and deeply involved with medical innovation, with an incredibly busy schedule, but jumped at the chance to take on the challenge of riding a century on every continent. Having already completed North America, Europe, Australia, Asia, and now Antarctica, only Africa and South America remain. Emily rides on and continues to be an inspiration to everyone who meets her. XX   https://diabetes-connections.com/t1d-connection-and-people-magazine-elise-zach-share-their-story/ XX Nick Jonas's becomes the first artist ever to wear a CGM on an album cover - new upcoming solo album Sunday Best, releasing Feb. 6.  The release says: This marks a powerful step forward in normalizing diabetes and raising awareness for the condition on a global scale. This moment adds to the growing visibility of diabetes in pop culture, alongside milestones like a Type 1 diabetes Barbie and Pixar characters wearing diabetes technology.

Senators Ted Cruz and Josh Hawley grill Netflix and Warner executives over a proposed $72B streaming merger, sparking debate on media bias, children's content, market power, and FTC approval. The PBD Podcast panel breaks down politics, entertainment, and the future of streaming wars.