Podcasts about Good Hope

Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.

This lecture explores the theme of fear in The Path to Perfection, examining how fear can both hinder and guide personal growth. It will discuss the different forms fear takes—such as fear of failure, judgment, and the unknown—and how these emotions can distance individuals from spiritual and personal fulfillment. The session will also highlight practical ways to confront and transform fear into a tool for self-awareness, resilience, and inner strength on the journey toward perfection. Dr. Mufti Abdur-Rahman presents a reflective and insightful talk centered on Shaykh Masihullah Khan's The Path to Perfection, focusing on the chapter “Love of the World.” Through a moving reading of the text and thoughtful commentary, he brings its timeless spiritual lessons into conversation with the realities of modern life. The talk offers clear, practical guidance on navigating today's challenges while cultivating sincerity, balance, and a deeper connection to what truly matters. In this series Dr. Mufti Abdur-Rahman covers the book titled, 'Essentials of Islamic Spirituality' previously known as 'The Path to Perfection'. Link to book: https://www.whitethreadpress.com/publication/essentials-of-islamic-spirituality/

Today we'll talk about Cape Town, South Africa, Part 1 of 2 Welcome to the  Dr. Mary Travelbest Guide podcast. A few weeks ago, I returned from a 90-day journey around the world, and I'm excited to connect with fellow travelers and share experiences. The FAQ is: Carolyn asked me about traveling and how to improve her posture while traveling. I thought about all of the times I look down at my screens and slouch as a habit I want to break, too. So thanks for the question, Carolyn. To improve posture, here is my response. Answer: Here is a short routine for neck mobility and posture, because "tech neck" and looking down at phones can worsen the appearance of neck lines and make the area muscles tighter. Cleveland Clinic recommends regular neck movement and posture work for tech neck, and Harvard notes posture-focused stretching can help mobility. A simple travel routine you do a few minutes a day while on the go. Chin tuck: Sit tall, pull your head straight back like you are making a double chin. Hold 5 seconds, repeat 8–10 times. Neck rotations: Slowly turn right, center, left. Repeat 5 times on each side. Cleveland Clinic also describes slow neck circles/rotations for the neck area. Side neck stretch: Ear toward shoulder, hold 15–20 seconds each side, 2 rounds. Shoulder blade squeeze: Pull shoulder blades gently back and down for 5 seconds, 10 reps. Seated chest stretch: Clasp hands behind you and lift slightly to open the chest; Harvard describes this as a posture stretch. Hold 10 seconds, repeat 2–4 times. Those exercises help mobility, tension, and posture, which can make your neck look better, One small caution: stop the stretches if you get pain, tingling, numbness, dizziness, or headaches, and get checked if neck stiffness is severe or persistent. Neck mobility work should feel gentle, not aggressive.   60-second confidence challenge Your challenge today, Confidence Challenge in Cape Town, Part 1 of 2  If you like today's Confidence Challenge, my book series delves into how to get exercise while traveling. See the 5 steps to solo travel, from easy to more challenging, with tips and all of my mistakes, too See Book A for healthy travel, and Book B for great destinations. Soon, C will be joining them with adventures for you to experience around the world. Find it on the website​​ at https://www.5stepstosolotravel.com/ or on Amazon. Look for the pre-order info for Book C. It will be available for pre-order soon.   Today's destination is Cape Town, South Africa, Part 1 of 2 Start with Table Mountain. You should not skip Table Mountain. The day I went was foggy, cold, and rainy, but the views were still great. On the way up the cable car, I met two guys who were planning to BASE jump off the mountain, which is a bit like skydiving but from a mountain. See the link. It's very dangerous. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3C4csBc90V8 A safer alternative is to take the cable car if conditions are clear or almost clear. It was a joy to be taken up to the top and explore the views from above, learn the history, and even have lunch there if you like. And here's the catch: weather changes fast. If you wait for the "perfect day," you may miss it. So go early. Stay flexible. I recommend you take the Hop-on Hop-off bus around Cape Town and explore with a guided tour from the double-decker. I did that, plus the wharf, art museums, Aquarium with jellyfish and shark exhibits, and the beach, of course. The Red line takes you to Table Mountain. Robben Island was closed for repairs, so it should be open now. Worth seeing is Robben Island, located in Table Bay near Cape Town, South Africa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous as the former maximum-security prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 18 years of his 27 years in prison. Now a museum symbolizing the triumph of democracy over apartheid, it offers tours guided by former political prisoners.  The wharf was excellent. Sea-faring boats such as those you would see in San Francisco or Boston. Let's talk about the beach. Along Camp Bay, I walked on the beach. I saw lots of artists selling paintings here. They were mostly people who were starving and unemployed, so they became entrepreneurs. People standing in the street with cups for coins.  Drive—or hire a driver—to experience: ●      Chapman's Peak Drive ●      Cape of Good Hope https://www.sanparks.org/parks/table-mountain/what-to-do/attractions/cape-of-good-hope-cape-point   Now, let's be practical. Cape Town is not a "wander anywhere" city. Stick to: ●      V&A Waterfront ●      Sea Point Promenade https://www.waterfront.co.za/? Clifton and Camps Bay are stunning. But don't confuse beauty with safety. Go during the day. Stay aware. Leave before dark. I swam in Fish Hoek, and it was chilly, but so refreshing and safe, too. https://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/see-all-city-facilities/our-recreational-facilities/Beaches/Fish-Hoek-Beach  My missteps: Travel Mistakes to Avoid: TSA delays   This around-the-world trip had a few TSA security stops, but in the last few years I have been stopped for bringing all kinds of items across the border. The most recent stop was for spices, traveling in a sealed container, at the border.  Next time I carry spices, I'll check that bag. The TSA spent 5 minutes checking my spice for tampering on the way to Taiwan last month.   AI was used to select some of the suggestions for this episode.   Connect with Dr. Travelbest 5 Steps to Solo Travel website Dr. Mary Travelbest X Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group Dr. Mary Travelbest Instagram Dr. Mary Travelbest Podcast Dr. Travelbest on TikTok Dr.Travelbest on YouTube In the news

As Gulf leaders look to Beijing for guarantees Washington no longer seems able to give, China is suddenly at the centre of diplomacy around the Strait of Hormuz. The UAE's Mohammed bin Zayed and Iran's foreign minister both arrived in Beijing within days of each other, seeking a way out of a blockade that has choked shipping routes, pushed tankers around the Cape of Good Hope, and rattled global markets.So where does this leave Donald Trump's efforts to revive a deal that could reopen the Strait, and what does the collapse of Project Freedom reveal about America's standing with its allies in the Gulf and Europe?In this episode of The Fourcast Indicators, Matt Frei and Mark Urban are joined by former Senior Director at the US National Security Council during Donald Trump's first administration Fiona Hill to examine China's growing leverage over Iran, the Gulf states' deepening unease with Washington, and the diplomatic pressure building ahead of the delayed Trump-Xi summit.

Title: Calm seas don't make skilled sailorsSpeaker: Pastor Denis MurphyDate: 22nd March 2026Location: Liverpool, UK "Calm seas never made skilled sailors." This episode takes a close look at the story of Jonah and what it reveals about obedience, trouble, and the kind of hope that does not waver when the waves rise. Starting in Jonah chapter one, the message walks through what happens when someone runs in the opposite direction from what God has clearly said to do. The storms that followed Jonah were not random. They were the direct result of his own choices. But the story does not stop there. It moves through Jonah's prayer from inside the fish, the repentance of Nineveh, and the surprising anger Jonah felt when mercy was shown to people he had written off. The contrast between Jonah's response and God's consistent mercy is striking. From there, the episode connects to Luke 8, Romans 5, 1 John 3, and Revelation 7 to build a picture of what it looks like to travel through hard things with Jesus in the boat. Trouble may come whether you are going the right way or the wrong way. The difference is what you are carrying inside, and where you are headed. The Cape of Good Hope was once called the Cape of Storms. Once sailors learned to navigate it, an entire ocean of opportunity opened up. That is the picture of faith moving through tribulation toward a hope that does not disappoint. Key Points: Running from a clear instruction from God does not change the instruction. It only adds unnecessary trouble to the journey. Repentance is not just a feeling or a sentiment. In Nineveh, it showed up as changed behavior, and God responded to that. Faith is active. Accessing grace requires action, just as Noah had to pick up the hammer and actually build the ark. Reference Scriptures: Jonah 1-4 Luke 8:22-25 Romans 5:1-8 1 John 3:1-3 Revelation 7:9-17 Listen to the entire Podcast Revival library by visiting https://podcastrevival.com The Revival Fellowship is a Bible-directed, Spirit-filled Church and we welcome visitors to our meetings at any of our locations worldwide. To find your nearest venue visit https://therevivalfellowship.com © 2026 The Revival Fellowship. All Rights Reserved.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Marathon Running Podcast, we dive deep into the vibrant world of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon. We are joined by expert ambassadors Caitlyn Choi Hood and Jade Jacobs, who share their insider knowledge on the "Spirit of Resilience," the best local running crews, and where to find the city's most legendary post-race treats. Whether you are chasing a PB on this fast, scenic course or looking for the perfect safari day trip, we have you covered with the latest updates and expert insights to keep you informed on the latest in running and competitive sports.The World Major Journey: Why the race moved to May and what the candidate status means for runners.Logistics & Arrival: Navigating CPT, currency tips for the South African Rand (ZAR), and why you must stay alert because they drive on the left.Race Weekend Essentials: A full guide to the DHL Stadium Expo, the two-start system, and the critical five-wave start process.The Course: A play-by-play of the 380m elevation gain and iconic sights like the Mouille Point Lighthouse and the Castle of Good Hope.Cape Town Culture: Expert culinary tips on the "Gatsby" and smashburgers, plus safety protocols and the "5-meter wildlife rule".Community & Parties: Where to find the best shakeout runs and after-parties with local crews like The Nine Four and Community Track Club.Why You Should Listen: To gain a competitive edge with a full course breakdown and local logistical hacks that ensure a stress-free race weekend.Our guests this episode: * Caitlyn Choi Hood: Official Ambassador and community leader.Jade Jacobs: Official Ambassador and local culinary guide.Official Race Website: https://capetownmarathon.com/Our website: https://www.marathonjournal.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/runningpodcastYouTube: https://youtube.com/@marathonjournalFollow us on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/30798607The Nine Four: @theninefourCommunity Track Club: @communitytrackclubMust Love Hills Run Crew: @mustlovehills_runcrewSlow and Steady CPT: @slowandsteadycptRunning Late Club: @runninglateclubEpisode HighlightsImportant InformationConnect with UsLocal Run Crews to Follow

Original Episode Transcript FollowsStephanie Hansen:Hello, everybody, and welcome to Dishing with Stephanie's Dish, the podcast where we talk to people in the food space. And also today, we're going to talk travel, because whenever I travel, food's always a big part of it. I'm here with my friend Michael Kenny, and he owns the travel agency Defined Destinations. And Michael and I met and have gone on a number of trips. We've gone to Croatia together. We're just about to embark on Turkey. We are also planning a new trip that we just launched, that is a trip to South Africa. And a lot of times the best way to get people excited about these trips is to talk about them.And Michael does more than that. He scouts them out for me first. So, Michael, you went to this trip?Michael Kenney:I did. I'm your personal scout, but I love it. There's not a. There's not a better deal than being able to do that and then going on with you and Kurt and with everybody else. So we've had some fun adventures. But, yes, I recently got back with my family. We went scouted this South Africa trip out, or Southern Africa, I should say that we visit four different countries. And it was.I've been on a safari before, but it was in. In Kenya, which was fabulous as well. But this is a whole different experience. So I brought my wife and my two kids, and we had one of the best experiences, from seeing Cape Town to Johannesburg and then all the wildlife, different lodges and on boats. So we do all these different sorts of transportation and see four different countries. And it was unbelievable. I came back really, really excited. I was excited in the beginning, but having gone on it and then really first experiencing it firsthand was phenomenal.And. And I knew you and Kurt would love it. And of course, everyone that follows you as well. It was just. It's really a trip of a lifetime.Stephanie Hansen:So we put the trip out there. It is a more expensive trip, and we had a limited number of seats we had that could join the trip. And, you know, I've never done a trip that is on the higher end like that in terms of expense. And you're just. You have a lot of in flight situations within the country. You have a lot of different lodging situations. There's a boat, like, in order to do all the things we wanted to do, there were a lot of moving parts.Michael Kenney:Yep.Stephanie Hansen:So we put the trip out there and it sold out, like, right away. Right. So then Michael was like, okay, do we want to try and do another one? And of course we do, because I want you guys to have as many of these experiences as we can put together. Because I think traveling this way is great. I love traveling in a group for destinations that maybe I'm not comfortable in fully by myself. So Michael has secured another trip, a second round that is the same itinerary, but they leave. I think it's a day later.Michael Kenney:Yes. And let me just touch on that. You hit some good points in there. Yeah. One reason the trip, it's, it's. It's definitely at the highest price point we've ever offered a trip. But I think if you're going out there and you're shopping in African safari, you see that as well. So the value is there with all the different.Essentially all the meals are included where we're at on, on this trip, the inner flights inside the countries as well. From a couple smaller bush planes to the larger flights that go from Cape Town to Johannesburg, Johannesburg up towards Victoria Falls, etc. Those are already included in all the transfers. And this is a different trip too, Stephanie, because it's not like a typical motor coach group that you're going with all these big lodges and motor coaches coming in. This trip is. Can only take 16 people. It's not because we design it that way, it's the ship only handles 16 people. So if you go on our website, you take a look at it, you'll see this small intimate cruiser on this river slash lake, Lake Kariba, which is part of the Zambezi.Stephanie Hansen's @StephaniesDish Newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Michael Kenney:And in the game lodge that we stayed at too for four nights as well there, there's only eight cabins for 16 people. So it's a real intimate experience and it will only be for our group. Same thing for your departure on May 8 and the 1 that we still have, there's only. We just sold one another cabin online just, just now. So there's four cabins left May 9th through the 25th of 2027. Same thing is gonna be true for that. It's only gonna be our group as well. So there's no other groups going to be in, on, on the ship and then in the lodge too.Michael Kenney:So it's a real small intimate experience and it's just real, real lovely.Stephanie Hansen:Can you walk us through like some of the high points having done this trip?Michael Kenney:Yeah. Oh, what do you start? I think this is just. Sometimes you use the word potpourri too much, but it's, it's really a bit of different. You know, you think you go to Africa just for the safari itself, but we go in and we visit Cape Town and Cape Town blew me away. It was one of the most beautiful cities and I'm not necessarily a city person, but it was just beautiful sitting under Table Mountain. We'll go up to Table Mountain, we'll go visit the areas around it, we'll go visit some vineyards. South African wine is to die for. We'll visit that.We have a wine tasting included. We get to see penguins on this penguin beach in South Africa, which I didn't know there was penguins in, in South Africa. So we're actually good to go see those. And you actually get up pretty close too, so that was a real highlight. Nelson Mandela's home in the prison, we're going to go visit that. So we have a cultural experience as well. But then we fly into Johannesburg. We'll get to hear the history in Johannesburg for a night.And then we fly further north and we go into the. Our game lodge. We spend for four days right on the Zambezi River. You'll absolutely love this place. You're. You're really well taken care of. You eat really well and you see the wildlife all around you right from your lodge. You sit in your plunge pool and there could be hippos down below you.It's incredible. It's just a real amazing experience. And then we fly to Lake Kariba, we get on the boat itself and we have four nights again. There's just 16 of us total. And it's. This is where it's really different. You glide up into shore and there can be elephants, giraffes, lions feeding in the water itself. It's.This isn't a zoo. This is incredible. You are right there with it. That a real slow experience. You're really able to take it in. So I invite, you know, anybody that's watching this to go online. Just take a look at our photos. It's free to do that and we pride ourselves.The majority of all the photos on it were taken while on the trip, especially with me and my family. So you'll get to really see what it really was, was like. So say you've done a trip to Tanzania or Kenya and have done a safari. This is. This is different. You see four different countries. It's a slower pace, smaller groups. It lovely.So those are really the experiences that I enjoyed the most, were the penguins seeing around Cape Town. Of course, the different game drives all the different wildlife. Victoria Falls, which is one of the most stunning waterfalls you'll ever see. It was. It was really enlightening and it was fabulous and everything's taken care of for you. So to Be able to do something on this on your own. To do the same trip would be really difficult. Putting all the flights together, the meals, what are we going to do? We've taken care of all of that.All you have to do essentially is register for the trip and then we can help you with getting international airfare when it does come available later in the summer for this May 9th through the 25th, 2027 trip. So it, it was just an amazing experience.Stephanie Hansen:So can you talk a little bit about the food? Because I have no idea what African food is going to be like.Michael Kenney:Yeah, I, I think this, it's not like we're out eating street food, you know, in some of the villages we're not doing that. It's all in a controlled environment from the salads to things like that because you want to drink bottled water. We never got sick while on the trip itself, but it's, it's real, it's westernized, let's say that. So a lot of meat and potatoes and fish and different things like that. So there won't be anything a little bit, I think outside of your comfort zone. So I, we really, really. Well, like lots of beef, chicken, sometimes there'd be lamb, but you can have choices too. So they're really great with diets with that.But again, the food was really safe. Nothing too exotic. You have a chance. Maybe you want to try ostrich or something like that. You can do that. But it's a real, it's really high level too. Especially at the lodges and the boats itself. All sit down plated meals.Really, really nice. But again it's, it's, it's safer on the meat and potato side on that. But it's, it's really nice high end food which you'll, I think I, I know you'll enjoy.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah. And was there different fruit?Michael Kenney:Yeah, some of the fruits, I can't remember. You'd be like, well, what is that? I don't know. Honestly, I wish I had the list on there. Like, well, what is that? Well, let's, let's try it. If you're in the markets and things like that. But they, they do, especially in the mornings they'll bring some fruits on, on the plate and you'll have, you're like, well what? And you just try it. So yeah, I'm not really good to help you on that. I'm sorry.No, but it's there exotic fruits wheneverStephanie Hansen:we're traveling because we went to Thailand together. We've been to Vietnam, Cambodia, whenever we're Traveling in these countries, there's always fruits that I've never, I don't even know what they are like. I'm just always amazed by how many fruits there are in the world.Michael Kenney:Yeah, it's crazy. Like I said, you go through and you're like, what is that? Especially on our Vietnam, Cambodia trip here, it's, that's, that's really exotic with the food. This is a little bit different, but yeah, we're in the southern hemisphere, right down to the Cape of Good Hope, which you'll actually see too. So you see different, different foods for sure, so they'll point that out too. But it's. The main course is definitely not exotic, but you'll see some really neat, neat, different fruits, things like that.Stephanie Hansen:We talked about South African wines, so I'm glad we're doing that because that was a blast. So this second itinerary leaves a day later. Will there ever be an opportunity where I will overlap and interact with the second? It's kind of hard to tell at this point.Michael Kenney:Yeah, it, it really is. And we'll know a little bit more later on because we're in, in contact because we'll have they. The ships. We have two different ships on it and it's just a day apart, like you said. But we're in the lodge for four days. Our lodges are different, they're close by. But we're working on trying to see maybe if we get a couple game drives together, maybe maybe a meal somewhere that we could see each other once or twice during, or maybe even three times with Cape Town too, that we could run into each other as well. So if you decide to book, because you won't be on the second trip, the second departure, we're hoping two or three times we'll be able to, to, to run in each other.But again, it's not guaranteed. But we're very hopeful because both of the ships are completely ours. So I'm sure we can, we can do a little overlapping in our two lodge stays. They're relatively close, but they're, they're different from each other. So we might be able to pop in and visit each other maybe for a happy hour on one of our boats, because each lodge has got like its own beautiful pontoon to go out and go look at the wildlife and we might run into that too, but. Yeah, but other than that, and you're not being on the second one, their tenders are the same, just different lodges. And they're both very, very amazing, high quality lodges. And again, if you go Online, you can see both the different boats and the lodges too, which you'll absolutely love.Stephanie Hansen:I love too, Michael, that you actually took these trips. When I travel with you, you're very upfront about what, you know, what, you don't know. We get in country guides if we need more expertise, and a lot of times you want that because you want a local person to share with you the local feel of the place and to give you information based on their perspective of living there or being familiar with the country.Michael Kenney:Yeah, I think that that's, that's, that's really important. People want to not just get the information to make sure it's correct, but just like what's life like being you're from Namibia or Zimbabwe or South Africa and we have these local guides. We have, you know, the folks with us in the lodge and when we're doing the game drives a professional that will tell you, you know, what you're seeing, how they, you know, migration or whatever they're doing and what they consume, all of that. So you've got that, that credibility too. So we have that throughout, from our city guides to our, our on land folks as well. You'll really get that expertise. So you'll, you'll come back feeling, you know, about the people itself, which there's. We could have different podcast talking about that.I loved it. And then, you know, the animals that you're going to sing like, oh, I didn't know. It's, it's a really educational but rewarding, relaxing trip as well, which you, you, I know you'll, you'll enjoy.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah, I'm looking forward to it. And people say that the African people are like just fabulous.Michael Kenney:They are it. And again, I've been to Africa a few times not, not to, to these parts. The people are wonderful. And I don't know if you're going to bring it up, but the languages. So revisiting different four countries and, and they, they speak different dialects of in. In the different countries and different languages as well, from English to African and wherever, you know, from where their group is from. But they use English as kind of the common language. So you'll.If we have a little overlap with some of our guides from Namibia to Botswana, they're going to speak English with each other, which was. I was like, oh, wow. I didn't, you know, really realize that. So the language is never a problem. Everything's in English. Even in. Through all of the countries visited. You would see the road signs.It's all in English, which was like, oh, wow, that's interesting. But then you get to hear them speaking with each other, their languages and they'll talk about that too. But I was, I was really surprised about the whole language situation being it really a lot of English.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah, I'm excited about that. Okay, so when we say expensive, can you just say on the podcast how much the trip is? Because I don't want people not to explore it.Michael Kenney:Oh yeah.Stephanie Hansen:You get so many things and a lot of people that are, you know, TV hosts and that sort of thing are hosting week long trips places and they cost more than this trip costs.Michael Kenney:So yeah, for the, for the land only per person It's $12,000. And so you, other than that you just need to get your international airfare to and from South Africa. And we have that all written down if you want to look at and for it yourself. But like I mentioned earlier, rates don't come out availability about 10 months prior to departure. So it'll be sometime later this summer, maybe in July that you'll start seeing what rates would be to fly into to Cape Town with that. But again the value is really there. It's typically double the price that we usually have for our trips going to Europe and other places like that. But I think if you go through it and if you've done your research, if you've looked at trips to Africa before, you'll see the value there with all the, all the flights, all the meals, all that included and it, like you said it, it's sold out right away.People I think understand that too. And we only have a few cabins left on the second departure so hopefully you're able to join it. But take a look at the website again, it's free to do that. Look at all the things that we offer, all the inclusions. I think everyone will see the value there for sure.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah, I was just noticing another person going somewhere for a week and it was like 15,000. And I was like, wait, we're going to Africa, we're doing all of this great stuff, all the meals are included, it's over, it's two week long trip and we're going on all these game drives. Like this is more than maybe most people would spend on a vacation. But like for a trip of a lifetime it's very, I thought really well priced. And I went and looked at Nat Geo. I looked at some of the other trips were actually cheaper than those too.Michael Kenney:Yeah. And I think a lot of people are just looking when you, you first look at it too, you want to make sure you're comparing apples to Apple. So, you know, we encourage you to go out there and shop and look at other companies because I know you'll come back and you'll see our value. A lot of them are just maybe doing similar game drives that we're doing, but they're not including like Cape Town in it and we are, which is huge. Again, you might not be a city person, but you're gonna love Cape Town. Not just the city itself, the drives around there, going to, to see the penguins and to go up into the area where the, the vineyards are, it's abso stunning. So there's a lot to it. So I encourage everybody to take a look and you'll again see the value and all the different experiences you'll haveStephanie Hansen:on this trip and the vibes. Because I'll be there on the first trip, hopefully I'll get to overlap with you on the second trip. I don't want to make any promises we can't keep, but I feel good that I'll see you at least once and then we can like talk about all the stuff that we saw when we get back. So it's going to be just great vibes.Michael Kenney:Exactly. And I already know the majority of the people that from previous trips that have already booked the second departure. So if you're thinking about it, I'm looking at the name list. There's some really good people on this, on this trip. So you're going to have fun. You'll have a great guides throughout. So it's yes, they won't have you incurred on the trip, which is sad, but I think at the same time you're really going to love, if you're going for this experience, you're absolutely going to love it for sure. And we encourage.Send an email to us. Give me a call. I'd be happy to talk to you about the trip itself. But again, having just a few cabins left, I know this one will sell out too. So if you're on the fence again, give me a call, send me an email. I'd be happy to get you on it because this will be our Last one for 2027, so we'd love to have anybody else join.Stephanie Hansen:I'll put all that information in the podcast release. Also, it pays to be traveler with us because we have a pretty good list now of people that are repeat travelers and I think that says a lot about you as someone coordinating these trips. I think it says a lot about me as someone that is fun to go on these trips with, like we have someone that's coming up on, this will be their fourth trip with us. They're, they're high end experiences, they're fun. We don't take ourselves too seriously. We have a good time. The pacing is right. If you need to peel off because you need a day to just relax, you can usually do that at the different places.It really, I, I feel like while we're leading a trip, we also understand it's your trip, not ours. So if you need to do, you know, like, I remember when we did a cooking class, Lori standing up on the bus and saying, well, who wants to do that? And everyone went except for her. And then Kurt went with her, so she wasn't alone. But again, if the cooking class isn't your jam, then you can find some way to do something else. So just to see a good time?Michael Kenney:No, it is if this is your vacation. But I honestly think everything that's in this itinerary, you're going to want to, to join in. And again, this is a relaxed pace too. But sometimes we have some earlier game drives to, to go see the animals that are out there early in the morning, which you want to do. But then we'll usually have the afternoon free that you can go into your plunge pool, sit by one of the beautiful trees and have having a cocktail or something like that. So it's really relaxed as well and you have time to take it in and I think that's really important. Sometimes everything's just go, go, go and see how much you can see and do. I mean, we are, we're going, but we still have that time to sit back and relax.And that's what's really fun about even being on the ship. Second, because we're moving around and, and popping into small little bays and seeing when animals come up through these savannahs. It's stunning. You're like, you're in the comfort of a beautiful boat and you're going up and there's, you know, elephants coming down to water, which I loved, or the hippos just down below you. We go fishing one time or a couple times, whatever we want to do. And just the wildlife around you. And it's like, oh, I'm not in a Minnesota northern lake right now. It's, it's pretty spectacular.Michael Kenney:So, Kurt, no swimming off the boat, please. Unlike Kariba with, with knowing, uh, there's a tiger fish in there. There's these world famous fish that people like to fish for, the sharp teeth, but it's more so you got to watch out for those hippos. Of course.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah. Are there crocodiles?Michael Kenney:Yes, there are. So, yes, there's the crocodiles and the hippos in there. So don't go in the water.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah.Michael Kenney:But it's fun to be on our big boat, so it's, it's safe and you get up really up close to everything, which is super cool.Stephanie Hansen:All right, well, I'm looking forward to it, Michael. Again, I'll put all the information in the podcast notes here. Thanks for joining us and I'll see you. Well, I won't see you tomorrow because I'm leaving for Turkey a few days early because I like to get there and get fresh before you guys all arrive so that I have a personality. But I'll see you in a couple days in Turkey.Michael Kenney:That sounds great. Thanks so much, Stephanie.Stephanie Hansen:Okay, bye. Bye.Stephanie Hansen's @StephaniesDish Newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stephaniehansen.substack.com/subscribe

Original Episode Transcript FollowsStephanie Hansen:Hello, everybody, and welcome to Dishing with Stephanie's Dish, the podcast where we talk to people in the food space. And also today, we're going to talk travel, because whenever I travel, food's always a big part of it. I'm here with my friend Michael Kenny, and he owns the travel agency Defined Destinations. And Michael and I met and have gone on a number of trips. We've gone to Croatia together. We're just about to embark on Turkey. We are also planning a new trip that we just launched, that is a trip to South Africa. And a lot of times the best way to get people excited about these trips is to talk about them.And Michael does more than that. He scouts them out for me first. So, Michael, you went to this trip?Michael Kenney:I did. I'm your personal scout, but I love it. There's not a. There's not a better deal than being able to do that and then going on with you and Kurt and with everybody else. So we've had some fun adventures. But, yes, I recently got back with my family. We went scouted this South Africa trip out, or Southern Africa, I should say that we visit four different countries. And it was.I've been on a safari before, but it was in. In Kenya, which was fabulous as well. But this is a whole different experience. So I brought my wife and my two kids, and we had one of the best experiences, from seeing Cape Town to Johannesburg and then all the wildlife, different lodges and on boats. So we do all these different sorts of transportation and see four different countries. And it was unbelievable. I came back really, really excited. I was excited in the beginning, but having gone on it and then really first experiencing it firsthand was phenomenal.And. And I knew you and Kurt would love it. And of course, everyone that follows you as well. It was just. It's really a trip of a lifetime.Stephanie Hansen:So we put the trip out there. It is a more expensive trip, and we had a limited number of seats we had that could join the trip. And, you know, I've never done a trip that is on the higher end like that in terms of expense. And you're just. You have a lot of in flight situations within the country. You have a lot of different lodging situations. There's a boat, like, in order to do all the things we wanted to do, there were a lot of moving parts.Michael Kenney:Yep.Stephanie Hansen:So we put the trip out there and it sold out, like, right away. Right. So then Michael was like, okay, do we want to try and do another one? And of course we do, because I want you guys to have as many of these experiences as we can put together. Because I think traveling this way is great. I love traveling in a group for destinations that maybe I'm not comfortable in fully by myself. So Michael has secured another trip, a second round that is the same itinerary, but they leave. I think it's a day later.Michael Kenney:Yes. And let me just touch on that. You hit some good points in there. Yeah. One reason the trip, it's, it's. It's definitely at the highest price point we've ever offered a trip. But I think if you're going out there and you're shopping in African safari, you see that as well. So the value is there with all the different.Essentially all the meals are included where we're at on, on this trip, the inner flights inside the countries as well. From a couple smaller bush planes to the larger flights that go from Cape Town to Johannesburg, Johannesburg up towards Victoria Falls, etc. Those are already included in all the transfers. And this is a different trip too, Stephanie, because it's not like a typical motor coach group that you're going with all these big lodges and motor coaches coming in. This trip is. Can only take 16 people. It's not because we design it that way, it's the ship only handles 16 people. So if you go on our website, you take a look at it, you'll see this small intimate cruiser on this river slash lake, Lake Kariba, which is part of the Zambezi.Stephanie Hansen's @StephaniesDish Newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Michael Kenney:And in the game lodge that we stayed at too for four nights as well there, there's only eight cabins for 16 people. So it's a real intimate experience and it will only be for our group. Same thing for your departure on May 8 and the 1 that we still have, there's only. We just sold one another cabin online just, just now. So there's four cabins left May 9th through the 25th of 2027. Same thing is gonna be true for that. It's only gonna be our group as well. So there's no other groups going to be in, on, on the ship and then in the lodge too.Michael Kenney:So it's a real small intimate experience and it's just real, real lovely.Stephanie Hansen:Can you walk us through like some of the high points having done this trip?Michael Kenney:Yeah. Oh, what do you start? I think this is just. Sometimes you use the word potpourri too much, but it's, it's really a bit of different. You know, you think you go to Africa just for the safari itself, but we go in and we visit Cape Town and Cape Town blew me away. It was one of the most beautiful cities and I'm not necessarily a city person, but it was just beautiful sitting under Table Mountain. We'll go up to Table Mountain, we'll go visit the areas around it, we'll go visit some vineyards. South African wine is to die for. We'll visit that.We have a wine tasting included. We get to see penguins on this penguin beach in South Africa, which I didn't know there was penguins in, in South Africa. So we're actually good to go see those. And you actually get up pretty close too, so that was a real highlight. Nelson Mandela's home in the prison, we're going to go visit that. So we have a cultural experience as well. But then we fly into Johannesburg. We'll get to hear the history in Johannesburg for a night.And then we fly further north and we go into the. Our game lodge. We spend for four days right on the Zambezi River. You'll absolutely love this place. You're. You're really well taken care of. You eat really well and you see the wildlife all around you right from your lodge. You sit in your plunge pool and there could be hippos down below you.It's incredible. It's just a real amazing experience. And then we fly to Lake Kariba, we get on the boat itself and we have four nights again. There's just 16 of us total. And it's. This is where it's really different. You glide up into shore and there can be elephants, giraffes, lions feeding in the water itself. It's.This isn't a zoo. This is incredible. You are right there with it. That a real slow experience. You're really able to take it in. So I invite, you know, anybody that's watching this to go online. Just take a look at our photos. It's free to do that and we pride ourselves.The majority of all the photos on it were taken while on the trip, especially with me and my family. So you'll get to really see what it really was, was like. So say you've done a trip to Tanzania or Kenya and have done a safari. This is. This is different. You see four different countries. It's a slower pace, smaller groups. It lovely.So those are really the experiences that I enjoyed the most, were the penguins seeing around Cape Town. Of course, the different game drives all the different wildlife. Victoria Falls, which is one of the most stunning waterfalls you'll ever see. It was. It was really enlightening and it was fabulous and everything's taken care of for you. So to Be able to do something on this on your own. To do the same trip would be really difficult. Putting all the flights together, the meals, what are we going to do? We've taken care of all of that.All you have to do essentially is register for the trip and then we can help you with getting international airfare when it does come available later in the summer for this May 9th through the 25th, 2027 trip. So it, it was just an amazing experience.Stephanie Hansen:So can you talk a little bit about the food? Because I have no idea what African food is going to be like.Michael Kenney:Yeah, I, I think this, it's not like we're out eating street food, you know, in some of the villages we're not doing that. It's all in a controlled environment from the salads to things like that because you want to drink bottled water. We never got sick while on the trip itself, but it's, it's real, it's westernized, let's say that. So a lot of meat and potatoes and fish and different things like that. So there won't be anything a little bit, I think outside of your comfort zone. So I, we really, really. Well, like lots of beef, chicken, sometimes there'd be lamb, but you can have choices too. So they're really great with diets with that.But again, the food was really safe. Nothing too exotic. You have a chance. Maybe you want to try ostrich or something like that. You can do that. But it's a real, it's really high level too. Especially at the lodges and the boats itself. All sit down plated meals.Really, really nice. But again it's, it's, it's safer on the meat and potato side on that. But it's, it's really nice high end food which you'll, I think I, I know you'll enjoy.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah. And was there different fruit?Michael Kenney:Yeah, some of the fruits, I can't remember. You'd be like, well, what is that? I don't know. Honestly, I wish I had the list on there. Like, well, what is that? Well, let's, let's try it. If you're in the markets and things like that. But they, they do, especially in the mornings they'll bring some fruits on, on the plate and you'll have, you're like, well what? And you just try it. So yeah, I'm not really good to help you on that. I'm sorry.No, but it's there exotic fruits wheneverStephanie Hansen:we're traveling because we went to Thailand together. We've been to Vietnam, Cambodia, whenever we're Traveling in these countries, there's always fruits that I've never, I don't even know what they are like. I'm just always amazed by how many fruits there are in the world.Michael Kenney:Yeah, it's crazy. Like I said, you go through and you're like, what is that? Especially on our Vietnam, Cambodia trip here, it's, that's, that's really exotic with the food. This is a little bit different, but yeah, we're in the southern hemisphere, right down to the Cape of Good Hope, which you'll actually see too. So you see different, different foods for sure, so they'll point that out too. But it's. The main course is definitely not exotic, but you'll see some really neat, neat, different fruits, things like that.Stephanie Hansen:We talked about South African wines, so I'm glad we're doing that because that was a blast. So this second itinerary leaves a day later. Will there ever be an opportunity where I will overlap and interact with the second? It's kind of hard to tell at this point.Michael Kenney:Yeah, it, it really is. And we'll know a little bit more later on because we're in, in contact because we'll have they. The ships. We have two different ships on it and it's just a day apart, like you said. But we're in the lodge for four days. Our lodges are different, they're close by. But we're working on trying to see maybe if we get a couple game drives together, maybe maybe a meal somewhere that we could see each other once or twice during, or maybe even three times with Cape Town too, that we could run into each other as well. So if you decide to book, because you won't be on the second trip, the second departure, we're hoping two or three times we'll be able to, to, to run in each other.But again, it's not guaranteed. But we're very hopeful because both of the ships are completely ours. So I'm sure we can, we can do a little overlapping in our two lodge stays. They're relatively close, but they're, they're different from each other. So we might be able to pop in and visit each other maybe for a happy hour on one of our boats, because each lodge has got like its own beautiful pontoon to go out and go look at the wildlife and we might run into that too, but. Yeah, but other than that, and you're not being on the second one, their tenders are the same, just different lodges. And they're both very, very amazing, high quality lodges. And again, if you go Online, you can see both the different boats and the lodges too, which you'll absolutely love.Stephanie Hansen:I love too, Michael, that you actually took these trips. When I travel with you, you're very upfront about what, you know, what, you don't know. We get in country guides if we need more expertise, and a lot of times you want that because you want a local person to share with you the local feel of the place and to give you information based on their perspective of living there or being familiar with the country.Michael Kenney:Yeah, I think that that's, that's, that's really important. People want to not just get the information to make sure it's correct, but just like what's life like being you're from Namibia or Zimbabwe or South Africa and we have these local guides. We have, you know, the folks with us in the lodge and when we're doing the game drives a professional that will tell you, you know, what you're seeing, how they, you know, migration or whatever they're doing and what they consume, all of that. So you've got that, that credibility too. So we have that throughout, from our city guides to our, our on land folks as well. You'll really get that expertise. So you'll, you'll come back feeling, you know, about the people itself, which there's. We could have different podcast talking about that.I loved it. And then, you know, the animals that you're going to sing like, oh, I didn't know. It's, it's a really educational but rewarding, relaxing trip as well, which you, you, I know you'll, you'll enjoy.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah, I'm looking forward to it. And people say that the African people are like just fabulous.Michael Kenney:They are it. And again, I've been to Africa a few times not, not to, to these parts. The people are wonderful. And I don't know if you're going to bring it up, but the languages. So revisiting different four countries and, and they, they speak different dialects of in. In the different countries and different languages as well, from English to African and wherever, you know, from where their group is from. But they use English as kind of the common language. So you'll.If we have a little overlap with some of our guides from Namibia to Botswana, they're going to speak English with each other, which was. I was like, oh, wow. I didn't, you know, really realize that. So the language is never a problem. Everything's in English. Even in. Through all of the countries visited. You would see the road signs.It's all in English, which was like, oh, wow, that's interesting. But then you get to hear them speaking with each other, their languages and they'll talk about that too. But I was, I was really surprised about the whole language situation being it really a lot of English.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah, I'm excited about that. Okay, so when we say expensive, can you just say on the podcast how much the trip is? Because I don't want people not to explore it.Michael Kenney:Oh yeah.Stephanie Hansen:You get so many things and a lot of people that are, you know, TV hosts and that sort of thing are hosting week long trips places and they cost more than this trip costs.Michael Kenney:So yeah, for the, for the land only per person It's $12,000. And so you, other than that you just need to get your international airfare to and from South Africa. And we have that all written down if you want to look at and for it yourself. But like I mentioned earlier, rates don't come out availability about 10 months prior to departure. So it'll be sometime later this summer, maybe in July that you'll start seeing what rates would be to fly into to Cape Town with that. But again the value is really there. It's typically double the price that we usually have for our trips going to Europe and other places like that. But I think if you go through it and if you've done your research, if you've looked at trips to Africa before, you'll see the value there with all the, all the flights, all the meals, all that included and it, like you said it, it's sold out right away.People I think understand that too. And we only have a few cabins left on the second departure so hopefully you're able to join it. But take a look at the website again, it's free to do that. Look at all the things that we offer, all the inclusions. I think everyone will see the value there for sure.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah, I was just noticing another person going somewhere for a week and it was like 15,000. And I was like, wait, we're going to Africa, we're doing all of this great stuff, all the meals are included, it's over, it's two week long trip and we're going on all these game drives. Like this is more than maybe most people would spend on a vacation. But like for a trip of a lifetime it's very, I thought really well priced. And I went and looked at Nat Geo. I looked at some of the other trips were actually cheaper than those too.Michael Kenney:Yeah. And I think a lot of people are just looking when you, you first look at it too, you want to make sure you're comparing apples to Apple. So, you know, we encourage you to go out there and shop and look at other companies because I know you'll come back and you'll see our value. A lot of them are just maybe doing similar game drives that we're doing, but they're not including like Cape Town in it and we are, which is huge. Again, you might not be a city person, but you're gonna love Cape Town. Not just the city itself, the drives around there, going to, to see the penguins and to go up into the area where the, the vineyards are, it's abso stunning. So there's a lot to it. So I encourage everybody to take a look and you'll again see the value and all the different experiences you'll haveStephanie Hansen:on this trip and the vibes. Because I'll be there on the first trip, hopefully I'll get to overlap with you on the second trip. I don't want to make any promises we can't keep, but I feel good that I'll see you at least once and then we can like talk about all the stuff that we saw when we get back. So it's going to be just great vibes.Michael Kenney:Exactly. And I already know the majority of the people that from previous trips that have already booked the second departure. So if you're thinking about it, I'm looking at the name list. There's some really good people on this, on this trip. So you're going to have fun. You'll have a great guides throughout. So it's yes, they won't have you incurred on the trip, which is sad, but I think at the same time you're really going to love, if you're going for this experience, you're absolutely going to love it for sure. And we encourage.Send an email to us. Give me a call. I'd be happy to talk to you about the trip itself. But again, having just a few cabins left, I know this one will sell out too. So if you're on the fence again, give me a call, send me an email. I'd be happy to get you on it because this will be our Last one for 2027, so we'd love to have anybody else join.Stephanie Hansen:I'll put all that information in the podcast release. Also, it pays to be traveler with us because we have a pretty good list now of people that are repeat travelers and I think that says a lot about you as someone coordinating these trips. I think it says a lot about me as someone that is fun to go on these trips with, like we have someone that's coming up on, this will be their fourth trip with us. They're, they're high end experiences, they're fun. We don't take ourselves too seriously. We have a good time. The pacing is right. If you need to peel off because you need a day to just relax, you can usually do that at the different places.It really, I, I feel like while we're leading a trip, we also understand it's your trip, not ours. So if you need to do, you know, like, I remember when we did a cooking class, Lori standing up on the bus and saying, well, who wants to do that? And everyone went except for her. And then Kurt went with her, so she wasn't alone. But again, if the cooking class isn't your jam, then you can find some way to do something else. So just to see a good time?Michael Kenney:No, it is if this is your vacation. But I honestly think everything that's in this itinerary, you're going to want to, to join in. And again, this is a relaxed pace too. But sometimes we have some earlier game drives to, to go see the animals that are out there early in the morning, which you want to do. But then we'll usually have the afternoon free that you can go into your plunge pool, sit by one of the beautiful trees and have having a cocktail or something like that. So it's really relaxed as well and you have time to take it in and I think that's really important. Sometimes everything's just go, go, go and see how much you can see and do. I mean, we are, we're going, but we still have that time to sit back and relax.And that's what's really fun about even being on the ship. Second, because we're moving around and, and popping into small little bays and seeing when animals come up through these savannahs. It's stunning. You're like, you're in the comfort of a beautiful boat and you're going up and there's, you know, elephants coming down to water, which I loved, or the hippos just down below you. We go fishing one time or a couple times, whatever we want to do. And just the wildlife around you. And it's like, oh, I'm not in a Minnesota northern lake right now. It's, it's pretty spectacular.Michael Kenney:So, Kurt, no swimming off the boat, please. Unlike Kariba with, with knowing, uh, there's a tiger fish in there. There's these world famous fish that people like to fish for, the sharp teeth, but it's more so you got to watch out for those hippos. Of course.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah. Are there crocodiles?Michael Kenney:Yes, there are. So, yes, there's the crocodiles and the hippos in there. So don't go in the water.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah.Michael Kenney:But it's fun to be on our big boat, so it's, it's safe and you get up really up close to everything, which is super cool.Stephanie Hansen:All right, well, I'm looking forward to it, Michael. Again, I'll put all the information in the podcast notes here. Thanks for joining us and I'll see you. Well, I won't see you tomorrow because I'm leaving for Turkey a few days early because I like to get there and get fresh before you guys all arrive so that I have a personality. But I'll see you in a couple days in Turkey.Michael Kenney:That sounds great. Thanks so much, Stephanie.Stephanie Hansen:Okay, bye. Bye.Stephanie Hansen's @StephaniesDish Newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stephaniehansen.substack.com/subscribe

How do you like to see wild animals? From the comfort of a guided safari vehicle? What about driving by yourself or perhaps by ebike? Host Belle Jackson tried all three options in South Africa recently, and shares her successes. We're talking the all-inclusive and exceptionally knowledgeable experiences provided by leading luxury safari company Sabi Sabi Game Reserve; sabisabi.com And also, what it's like to self-drive through Kruger National Park, with expert travel planner Travel Africa Your Way and about spotting ostriches and kudu while e-biking to the Cape of Good Hope, South of Cape Town, thanks to new tour company Cape Point Bike Tours, led by its enthusiastic owner Neil Kohler;  capepointebiketours.com; travelafricayourway.com.auWe're also announcing the winner of our giveaway of a night & buffet breakfast at the Novotel Melbourne Airport! Thanks to everyone who entered, it was a hard-fought comp!  See https://all.accor.com/hotel/B327/index.en.shtml Also, why Gen Z's lost interest in taking an overseas working holiday, according to new research from Southern Cross Travel Insurance. And finally, Crusader Caravans shares tips on how road trippers can manage increasing fuel prices.  Download SAILY in your app store and use our code 'theworldawaits' at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase; see saily.comSend us Fan MailSupport the showVisit us at https://theworldawaits.au

Explore the most haunted places around the world in our latest video, "Uncovering the Dark Secrets of Haunted Places." Join us as we delve into the Paranormal activities and ghost-hunting adventures in these abandoned sites. From true scary stories in the Bridgewater Triangle and the eerie Hockomock Swamp to the chilling tales of Monte Cristo Homestead and Myrtles Plantation, we cover it all. Discover the mysteries behind the Castle of Good Hope and the infamous Bishop's Room. If you're a fan of the bright side of ghostly mysteries, this video is for you! Let's uncover the unexplained phenomena and delve deep into the mystery of these haunted places. Stay tuned for a spine-chilling journey with our perspectives on the paranormal! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Motheo Khoaripe speaks to Japie Fullard, CEO Glencore Alloys about Eskom’s heavily discounted, time‑bound power deal for the ferrochrome industry and what the amended Negotiated Power Agreement means for jobs, energy‑intensive smelters and South Africa’s struggling ferroalloys sector. In other interviews, Timothy Walker, Senior Researcher on Maritime Security at the Institute for Security Studies talks about whether South Africa’s ports particularly Cape Town are truly equipped to handle the surge in global shipping traffic as vessels reroute around the Cape of Good Hope amid ongoing disruptions due to the Middle East conflict. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 to 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Motheo Khoaripe speaks to Timothy Walker, Senior Researcher on Maritime Security at the Institute for Security Studies about whether South Africa’s ports particularly Cape Town are truly equipped to handle the surge in global shipping traffic as vessels reroute around the Cape of Good Hope amid ongoing disruptions due to the Middle East conflict. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pack your bags, we're heading to Cape Town. The views are gorgeous, the history is messy, and the castle looks way too cheerful for what went down inside. We've got colonial drama, questionable decisions, a dungeon called the Dark Hole (subtle), and a governor who may have been taken out by karma mid-power trip. We'd appreciate it if you took a moment to help our podcast by rating and reviewing on apple and NOW on Spotify! Leave us a comment on how you liked the episode or where we should cover next! Don't forget to check our show notes for our social links! Definitely check out our Instagram (@hauntedorhoaxpod). We post all photos and videos talked about in the show there! Haunted or Hoax Social Medias: Website Instagram Facebook Sources for this Episode: TELEVISION & MEDIA: WEBSITES: https://ghostadventures.fandom.com/wiki/Hauntings_of_Vicksburg:_McRaven_Mansion_(episode) https://www.bumpinthenight.net/night-at-mcraven-house https://usghostadventures.com/haunted-stories/americas-most-haunted-south/vicksburgs-mcraven-mansion/ https://www.mcraventourhome.com/ghosts https://www.visitvicksburg.com/blog/mcraven-house-vicksburgs-most-haunted-mansion/

CBIC waives full customs duty on critical petrochemical products The Finance Ministry has announced a complete customs duty waiver on 40 petrochemical products, effective through June 30, 2026, in a strategic move to insulate domestic manufacturers from supply chain disruptions and price volatility triggered by the ongoing West Asia conflict. These products serve as essential raw materials across various industrial sectors, and the intervention aims to stabilise production costs amid regional instability. According to official estimates, this tax break is expected to result in a revenue loss of approximately Rs 1,800 crore to the national exchequer over the three-month period. The Ministry clarified that the decision was prompted by the escalating West Asia conflict and the resulting turbulence in global supply chains. By removing these trade barriers, the government aims to shield the domestic market from external shocks. This is third measure from Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs. First, last week. It slashed excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 a litre as it looked to shield consumers from the impact of rising global crude prices amid the ongoing war, also imposed an export duty of Rs 21.50 per litre on diesel and Rs 29.50 per litre on Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF). Excise duty on petrol has been slashed to Rs 3 a litre, while on diesel it is zero currently. GE faces penalty action for missing multiple Tejas engine deadlines With GE Aerospace missing multiple deadlines for supply of F404-IN20 engines for powering Tejas LCA Mk1A, penalty against the US-based company outlined in the August 2021 contract with the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited will be automatically invoked for breach of delivery timeline per engine. Of the overall 99 engines contracted for a cost of $716 million, GE has supplied 5 engines and the 6th is on way to India. The delivery was supposed to start in 2023 but it got delayed for about two years and the first engine was supplied only in March 2025. A subsequent contract was also inked with GE on November 7, 2025, for approximately $ 1 billion, to support 97 more LCA Mk1A jets, and the deliveries are supposed to take place from 2027 and end in 2032. As per the ‘pessimistic assessment,' GE has promised to supply 20 of 99 F404-IN20 engines towards December, this year, as they claim to have overcome global supply chain issues, top HAL sources revealed. The best case scenario, however, is for shipment of 25 engines by the end of the year, they added. Hormuz crisis chokes shipping, sends freight rates soaring fivefold More than a month into the West Asia crisis triggered by the US–Iran conflict, shipping and trade remain in deep turmoil, marked by extreme volatility and uncertainty. The disruption of the Strait of Hormuz — a critical artery for global energy flows — has severely impacted maritime traffic, pushing freight rates up nearly fivefold, inflating war-risk insurance premiums by 10X, and imposition of emergency surcharges across key trade lanes. Prior to the crisis, around 150 vessels transited the strait daily; that number has now dropped to just four or five. Similarly, deliveries are now arriving two to three weeks behind schedule, as vessels reroute via longer passages such as the Cape of Good Hope, increasing both transit time and costs. FMCG firms likely to hike prices by 3-4% in June quarter due to raw material cost pressures: Nuvama report FMCG companies are likely to hike prices by 3-4 per cent in the June quarter to mitigate raw material cost pressures, according to a report by Nuvama Institutional Equities. It added that in categories such as paints, edible oils, soaps and detergents, it could be even higher. “In our view, companies typically maintain 30–45 days of raw material and finished goods inventory. Hence, we forecast price hikes are likely to be in Q1 FY27. Higher crude oil prices and rupee depreciation have raised input cost pressures, mainly through higher packaging costs, which comprise about 20 per cent of costs. We forecast at least 3–4 per cent price hikes in Q1 FY27 if current raw material inflation persists. Paints, edible oil, soaps and detergents could see even higher hikes,” Abneesh Roy, Executive Director & Head of Research Committee, Nuvama Institutional Equities, stated in the report. He added that to manage rising input costs, FMCG companies are recalibrating pricing strategies and packaging structures through grammage reduction in smaller packs to maintain affordability and price hikes in larger packs, where consumer sensitivity is lower.

PS Nikki Nucifora Continues the series of Hope of the World talking about Why Friday is Good - 3rd April 2026

As fuel prices surge, DA finance spokesperson Dr Mark Burke argues government should cushion the shock by cutting the general fuel levy and Road Accident Fund levy. We then track a busy corporate update: Standard Bank sets ambitious growth targets built around AI, payments and fintech, while Woolworths ties its incoming CEO's big share award to demanding performance hurdles. Bloomberg reports a landmark jury verdict finding Meta and Google liable in a social-media addiction case, and we close with a Good Hope story on hearX — the South African health-tech firm pushing newborn screening and teacher training via mobile tools.

Stephen Grootes speaks to Francois Rossouw, CEO Of the Southern African Agricultural Initiative and John Steenhuisen, Minister of Agriculture, about the growing legal battle in which farmers argue that strict state-controlled vaccine rules are delaying South Africa’s foot-and-mouth disease response, threatening livestock, livelihoods, and the wider agricultural economy. In other interviews, Timothy Walker, Senior researcher on maritime security at the ISS talks about the shifting dynamics in global shipping, as vessels increasingly reroute around the Cape of Good Hope amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The diversion of traffic away from traditional routes like the Suez Canal is driving increased activity along Africa’s coastline, positioning the region as a growing bunkering hub, while also highlighting the opportunities and constraints shaping South Africa’s role in this evolving maritime trade landscape. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 to 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen Grootes speaks to Timothy Walker, Senior Researcher on maritime security at the ISS, about the shifting dynamics in global shipping, as vessels increasingly reroute around the Cape of Good Hope amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The diversion of traffic away from traditional routes like the Suez Canal is driving increased activity along Africa’s coastline, positioning the region as a growing bunkering hub, while also highlighting the opportunities and constraints shaping South Africa’s role in this evolving maritime trade landscape. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 to 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

⛵ You'd think that with GPS, modern ships, and mega-container vessels, sailing around Africa would be no big deal today. But here's the twist: even in the 21st century, captains still try to avoid that route whenever possible. Why? Because the waters around the Cape of Good Hope are some of the most dangerous on Earth. Towering waves, unpredictable storms, and brutal currents have wrecked countless ships through history — and they still pose a threat today.

Advertising SponsorThis episode is brought to you by Arcadia Green Coffee, Colombian coffee exporters taking fresh green coffee from Colombia to the world — farm to roastery, direct.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arcadiagreencoffee/WhatsApp: https://wa.me/353877871523Episode DescriptionThis is Part 2 of a five-part series: War, Trade, and Coffee — What the Middle East Conflict Means for the Global Coffee Industry.In this episode, Lee Safar explores the shipping system that moves coffee around the world and explains why disruptions in West Asia could have significant implications for the global coffee industry.Approximately 80–90% of global trade moves by sea, and coffee is deeply dependent on those maritime logistics systems.Lee explains the importance of several key trade routes that shape global coffee movement, including the Strait of Hormuz, Bab al-Mandeb, and the Suez Canal. These waterways connect Africa, Asia, and Europe and carry enormous volumes of global trade.When shipping routes become unstable due to conflict, ships may be forced to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, adding thousands of nautical miles and weeks of travel time. This increases fuel costs, freight prices, insurance premiums, and supply chain uncertainty.The episode also explores why these disruptions affect different coffee supply chains differently. Coffee moving from East Africa and Asia toward Europe relies heavily on the Red Sea corridor, while some Latin American routes may be less directly affected.Understanding these logistics systems is essential for coffee professionals trying to navigate the uncertainty created by geopolitical conflict.In the next episode, Lee explores who is likely to be hit first in the coffee value chain as these disruptions unfold.Connect with Lee Safar and Map It Forward here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/leesafar/https://mapitforward.coffeehttps://www.instagram.com/leesafarhttps://www.instagram.com/mapitforward.coffee ***************************************About Map It Forward The Daily Coffee Pro is produced by Map It Forward, supporting coffee professionals globally across the supply chain.Website: https://mapitforward.coffeeMailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglistPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/mapitforwardInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mapitforward.coffee/Contact: support@mapitforward.org

Advertising SponsorThis episode is brought to you by Arcadia Green Coffee, Colombian coffee exporters taking fresh green coffee from Colombia to the world — farm to roastery, direct.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arcadiagreencoffee/WhatsApp: https://wa.me/353877871523Episode DescriptionThis is Part 2 of a five-part series: War, Trade, and Coffee — What the Middle East Conflict Means for the Global Coffee Industry.In this episode, Lee Safar explores the shipping system that moves coffee around the world and explains why disruptions in West Asia could have significant implications for the global coffee industry.Approximately 80–90% of global trade moves by sea, and coffee is deeply dependent on those maritime logistics systems.Lee explains the importance of several key trade routes that shape global coffee movement, including the Strait of Hormuz, Bab al-Mandeb, and the Suez Canal. These waterways connect Africa, Asia, and Europe and carry enormous volumes of global trade.When shipping routes become unstable due to conflict, ships may be forced to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, adding thousands of nautical miles and weeks of travel time. This increases fuel costs, freight prices, insurance premiums, and supply chain uncertainty.The episode also explores why these disruptions affect different coffee supply chains differently. Coffee moving from East Africa and Asia toward Europe relies heavily on the Red Sea corridor, while some Latin American routes may be less directly affected.Understanding these logistics systems is essential for coffee professionals trying to navigate the uncertainty created by geopolitical conflict.In the next episode, Lee explores who is likely to be hit first in the coffee value chain as these disruptions unfold.Connect with Lee Safar and Map It Forward here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/leesafar/https://mapitforward.coffeehttps://www.instagram.com/leesafarhttps://www.instagram.com/mapitforward.coffee ***************************************About Map It Forward The Daily Coffee Pro is produced by Map It Forward, supporting coffee professionals globally across the supply chain.Website: https://mapitforward.coffeeMailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglistPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/mapitforwardInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mapitforward.coffee/Contact: support@mapitforward.org

Think river cruising is just castles and cobblestones? Think again. In this episode of All Things Travel, travel advisors Ryan and Julie explore river cruising destinations across four continents — no Europe required.Asia – Mekong River (Vietnam & Cambodia) AmaWaterways' 7-night Riches of the Mekong cruise from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City offers a rare window into Southeast Asian culture. Highlights include a walking tour of a Cambodian village untouched by the Khmer Rouge, a visit to Silk Island on the Mekong River, the Royal Palace and Central Market in Phnom Penh, Cambodia's Killing Fields genocide museum, and a bird and forest sanctuary with 70+ species.Africa – Chobe River & Rail (Botswana, Namibia, South Africa & Zambia) A 13-night Rivers and Rails of Africa journey combining a safari river cruise, Victoria Falls, and a luxury rail journey on Rovos Rail. Highlights include Cape Town's Cape of Good Hope, Boulder's Beach African penguins, open-top 4x4 safari for elephants, giraffes, zebra and cape buffalo, a sunset cruise near Victoria Falls, and a scenic rail journey through Zimbabwe.South America – Magdalena River (Colombia) AmaWaterways' 7-night Magic of Colombia cruise from Barranquilla to Cartagena — the only river cruise currently operating on this route. Highlights include village immersions with local families, handcrafted local wares, Spanish colonial architecture, and a tour of UNESCO-recognized Cartagena, including San Felipe Castle and the colorful Getsemaní neighborhood.Ryan and Julie also share a client trip spotlight: a spring break family adventure through Sedona and Flagstaff, Arizona.Tune in next: US river cruise destinations — coming in a few weeks.Plan your river cruise: WonderAndBeyondTravel.comKeywords: river cruising, river cruise beyond Europe, Mekong River cruise, Africa river cruise, Colombia river cruise, AmaWaterways, Chobe River safari, Magdalena River, Victoria Falls cruise, Rovos Rail, exotic river cruises, travel podcast, Wonder and Beyond Travel, All Things TravelSupport the showLove the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!

Explore the most haunted places around the world in our latest video, "Uncovering the Dark Secrets of Haunted Places." Join us as we delve into the Paranormal activities and ghost-hunting adventures in these abandoned sites. From true scary stories in the Bridgewater Triangle and the eerie Hockomock Swamp to the chilling tales of Monte Cristo Homestead and Myrtles Plantation, we cover it all. Discover the mysteries behind the Castle of Good Hope and the infamous Bishop's Room. If you're a fan of the bright side of ghostly mysteries, this video is for you! Let's uncover the unexplained phenomena and delve deep into the mystery of these haunted places. Stay tuned for a spine-chilling journey with our perspectives on the paranormal! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

────────────────────────────────────────00:01:15:08 — Strait of Hormuz Crisis Threatens Global Shipping and Oil SupplyRising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are described as placing global trade and energy flows in jeopardy, with shipping companies reconsidering routes and operations.────────────────────────────────────────00:02:15:23 — Maersk Halts Cargo Bookings Across the Persian GulfThe world's largest container shipper suspends bookings across much of the Gulf region due to security concerns, signaling a major disruption to global logistics.────────────────────────────────────────00:03:25:14 — Global Supply Chain Domino Effect From Gulf Shipping DisruptionShipping executives warn that even small disruptions in major routes can cascade through global logistics networks, causing widespread delays and cost increases.────────────────────────────────────────00:07:06:15 — Shipping Companies Reroute Around Africa at Massive CostMajor carriers begin diverting vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, adding up to two weeks to shipping times and roughly $1 million in additional fuel costs per voyage.────────────────────────────────────────00:13:42:21 — U.S. Navy Quietly Signals No Escort Ships AvailableShipping and insurance industry officials reportedly receive word that the U.S. Navy cannot provide the promised escorts for commercial vessels.────────────────────────────────────────00:14:33:14 — Potential Energy Shock Compared to OPEC Oil EmbargoThe disruption is compared to the 1970s oil embargo but described as potentially far larger because a full closure of Hormuz would remove about 20% of global oil supply.────────────────────────────────────────00:17:01:26 — New 15% Global Tariff Introduced After Supreme Court SetbackFollowing a court loss over tariff authority, Trump escalates global tariffs to 15% for 150 days, intensifying economic tensions.────────────────────────────────────────01:18:28:23 — American Casualties Framed as Sacrifice for IsraelCriticism emerges after comments suggesting U.S. soldiers killed in the war died in defense of Israel rather than American interests.────────────────────────────────────────01:21:08:08 — Iranian School Bombing Kills Over 160 Girls and TeachersReports describe a bombing of a girls' school that allegedly killed over 160 students and teachers, raising accusations that Western media is ignoring civilian casualties.────────────────────────────────────────01:27:24:29 — Senate Rejects War Powers Resolution to Limit Iran ConflictThe U.S. Senate votes down a War Powers resolution that would have forced Trump to end strikes on Iran or seek congressional authorization.────────────────────────────────────────01:30:00:23 — Thomas Massie Delivers Constitutional Argument Against WarRepresentative Thomas Massie argues that the Constitution gives Congress—not the president—the authority to initiate war and criticizes military escalation without a vote.────────────────────────────────────────01:53:23:23 — Jeffrey Sachs Claims Long-Running CIA–Mossad Plan Targeted IranEconomist Jeffrey Sachs argues that U.S. involvement in Middle East conflicts reflects a long-term strategy aimed at weakening Iran and maintaining regional dominance.──────────────────────────────────────── Money should have intrinsic value AND transactional privacy: Go to https://davidknight.gold/ for great deals on physical gold/silver For 10% off Gerald Celente's prescient Trends Journal, go to https://trendsjournal.com/ and enter the code KNIGHT Find out more about the show and where you can watch it at TheDavidKnightShow.com If you would like to support the show and our family please consider subscribing monthly here: SubscribeStar https://www.subscribestar.com/the-david-knight-showOr you can send a donation throughMail: David Knight POB 994 Kodak, TN 37764Zelle: @DavidKnightShow@protonmail.comCash App at: $davidknightshowBTC to: bc1qkuec29hkuye4xse9unh7nptvu3y9qmv24vanh7Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-david-knight-show--2653468/support.

────────────────────────────────────────00:01:15:08 — Strait of Hormuz Crisis Threatens Global Shipping and Oil SupplyRising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are described as placing global trade and energy flows in jeopardy, with shipping companies reconsidering routes and operations.────────────────────────────────────────00:02:15:23 — Maersk Halts Cargo Bookings Across the Persian GulfThe world's largest container shipper suspends bookings across much of the Gulf region due to security concerns, signaling a major disruption to global logistics.────────────────────────────────────────00:03:25:14 — Global Supply Chain Domino Effect From Gulf Shipping DisruptionShipping executives warn that even small disruptions in major routes can cascade through global logistics networks, causing widespread delays and cost increases.────────────────────────────────────────00:07:06:15 — Shipping Companies Reroute Around Africa at Massive CostMajor carriers begin diverting vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, adding up to two weeks to shipping times and roughly $1 million in additional fuel costs per voyage.────────────────────────────────────────00:13:42:21 — U.S. Navy Quietly Signals No Escort Ships AvailableShipping and insurance industry officials reportedly receive word that the U.S. Navy cannot provide the promised escorts for commercial vessels.────────────────────────────────────────00:14:33:14 — Potential Energy Shock Compared to OPEC Oil EmbargoThe disruption is compared to the 1970s oil embargo but described as potentially far larger because a full closure of Hormuz would remove about 20% of global oil supply.────────────────────────────────────────00:17:01:26 — New 15% Global Tariff Introduced After Supreme Court SetbackFollowing a court loss over tariff authority, Trump escalates global tariffs to 15% for 150 days, intensifying economic tensions.────────────────────────────────────────01:18:28:23 — American Casualties Framed as Sacrifice for IsraelCriticism emerges after comments suggesting U.S. soldiers killed in the war died in defense of Israel rather than American interests.────────────────────────────────────────01:21:08:08 — Iranian School Bombing Kills Over 160 Girls and TeachersReports describe a bombing of a girls' school that allegedly killed over 160 students and teachers, raising accusations that Western media is ignoring civilian casualties.────────────────────────────────────────01:27:24:29 — Senate Rejects War Powers Resolution to Limit Iran ConflictThe U.S. Senate votes down a War Powers resolution that would have forced Trump to end strikes on Iran or seek congressional authorization.────────────────────────────────────────01:30:00:23 — Thomas Massie Delivers Constitutional Argument Against WarRepresentative Thomas Massie argues that the Constitution gives Congress—not the president—the authority to initiate war and criticizes military escalation without a vote.────────────────────────────────────────01:53:23:23 — Jeffrey Sachs Claims Long-Running CIA–Mossad Plan Targeted IranEconomist Jeffrey Sachs argues that U.S. involvement in Middle East conflicts reflects a long-term strategy aimed at weakening Iran and maintaining regional dominance.──────────────────────────────────────── Money should have intrinsic value AND transactional privacy: Go to https://davidknight.gold/ for great deals on physical gold/silver For 10% off Gerald Celente's prescient Trends Journal, go to https://trendsjournal.com/ and enter the code KNIGHT Find out more about the show and where you can watch it at TheDavidKnightShow.com If you would like to support the show and our family please consider subscribing monthly here: SubscribeStar https://www.subscribestar.com/the-david-knight-showOr you can send a donation throughMail: David Knight POB 994 Kodak, TN 37764Zelle: @DavidKnightShow@protonmail.comCash App at: $davidknightshowBTC to: bc1qkuec29hkuye4xse9unh7nptvu3y9qmv24vanh7Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-real-david-knight-show--5282736/support.

Lester Kiewit speaks to GOOD party MPL Brett Herron about the sale of pockets of land by the City of Cape Town including the Good Hope Centre. It has been widely reported that New World Faith Ministries also known as Spirit Revelation Ecclesia, are the new owners of the Good Hope Centre. The City has now also come out to clarify that they have not accepted bids for any of the sites as yet. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is a podcast of the CapeTalk breakfast show. This programme is your authentic Cape Town wake-up call. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is informative, enlightening and accessible. The team’s ability to spot & share relevant and unusual stories make the programme inclusive and thought-provoking. Don’t miss the popular World View feature at 7:45am daily. Listen out for #LesterInYourLounge which is an outside broadcast – from the home of a listener in a different part of Cape Town - on the first Wednesday of every month. This show introduces you to interesting Capetonians as well as their favourite communities, habits, local personalities and neighbourhood news. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit. Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays between 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Good Morning CapeTalk with Lester Kiewit broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/xGkqLbT or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/f9Eeb7i Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk5See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Muizenberg Magistrates’ Court has imposed the maximum sentence in a serious animal cruelty case, marking a major victory for animal protection. Lester Kiewit speaks to Jaco Pieterse, the former Chief Inspector of the Cape of Good Hope now candidate attorney at Gishen McLeod Attorneys, about the significance of the ruling, what it means for future prosecutions, and how communities can help prevent animal abuse. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is a podcast of the CapeTalk breakfast show. This programme is your authentic Cape Town wake-up call. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is informative, enlightening and accessible. The team’s ability to spot & share relevant and unusual stories make the programme inclusive and thought-provoking. Don’t miss the popular World View feature at 7:45am daily. Listen out for #LesterInYourLounge which is an outside broadcast – from the home of a listener in a different part of Cape Town - on the first Wednesday of every month. This show introduces you to interesting Capetonians as well as their favourite communities, habits, local personalities and neighbourhood news. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit. Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays between 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Good Morning CapeTalk with Lester Kiewit broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/xGkqLbT or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/f9Eeb7i Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk5See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Maytham is joined by Buhle Booi, Head of Political Organising and Campaigns at Ndifuna Ukwazi, an organisation that has long advocated for the use of public land to address inequality in Cape Town – to discuss the City’s plans to release landmark Good Hope Centre and other properties at an upcoming auction. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are you looking for in this life? Are you looking for that blessed hope? What is “that blessed hope”? It is the coming of our Savior! Listen to this message taken from God's word on how we MUST be living towards His imminent coming and be ready for it!

We arrive at the Cape of Good Hope, receive Jack's true orders, and witness the immediate elevation—and corresponding pressure—that comes with the new post of Commodore Aubrey.  Meanwhile there's a surprise reunion with a couple of old Jack Aubrey followers, and a protestant parrot.

The logistics sector is sending mixed signals in early 2026, with some data pointing to a boom while other indicators suggest fragility. On the growth side, 3PLs are dominating industrial leasing as corporations aggressively outsource their complex supply chains. Financial metrics back up this optimism, with Triumph Financial reporting rising invoice sizes and the addition of major fleets like J.B. Hunt to their network. This consolidation suggests big players are circling the wagons around platforms that provide stability and value. Operational efficiency is also improving, as C.H. Robinson uses AI agents to automate ready-checks and reduce unnecessary return trips by 42%. These technological advancements are helping stabilize networks by cutting out pure waste like fuel and driver time. However, friction remains in the air cargo sector, where Alaska Airlines is dissatisfied with its Amazon contract due to pilot scheduling issues and thin margins. The airline is looking to renegotiate terms or exit the deal as it struggles to optimize utilization between passenger and cargo operations. Regulatory and geopolitical risks are also mounting, highlighted by a court decision denying a reprieve for non-domiciled CDL renewals in California. Furthermore, global trade lanes face renewed uncertainty after Houthis threatened new attacks in the Red Sea, potentially forcing ships back around the Cape of Good Hope. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The logistics sector is sending mixed signals in early 2026, with some data pointing to a boom while other indicators suggest fragility. On the growth side, 3PLs are dominating industrial leasing as corporations aggressively outsource their complex supply chains. Financial metrics back up this optimism, with Triumph Financial reporting rising invoice sizes and the addition of major fleets like J.B. Hunt to their network. This consolidation suggests big players are circling the wagons around platforms that provide stability and value. Operational efficiency is also improving, as C.H. Robinson uses AI agents to automate ready-checks and reduce unnecessary return trips by 42%. These technological advancements are helping stabilize networks by cutting out pure waste like fuel and driver time. However, friction remains in the air cargo sector, where Alaska Airlines is dissatisfied with its Amazon contract due to pilot scheduling issues and thin margins. The airline is looking to renegotiate terms or exit the deal as it struggles to optimize utilization between passenger and cargo operations. Regulatory and geopolitical risks are also mounting, highlighted by a court decision denying a reprieve for non-domiciled CDL renewals in California. Furthermore, global trade lanes face renewed uncertainty after Houthis threatened new attacks in the Red Sea, potentially forcing ships back around the Cape of Good Hope. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In late 2023, one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints effectively broke. After Hamas' October 7th attack on Israel, Houthi militants began targeting commercial shipping in the Red Sea. Initially, their target was Israel-linked vessels, then they increasingly started targeting anything that passed through. What followed was a near-collapse of confidence in the Suez Canal, a route that normally handles roughly 10–12% of global seaborne trade. Ocean carriers rerouted thousands of ships around the Cape of Good Hope, adding weeks, cost, fuel burn, and complexity to global supply chains. Fast forward to late 2025 and early 2026, and something quietly significant happened: Maersk, the world's second-largest container carrier, sent ships back through the Red Sea. It wasn't a full return or a declaration of victory, but it was a meaningful test. In this episode of the Art of Supply podcast, Kelly Barner covers:  Why Maersk's Red Sea test voyages matter more than they may appear The economic and capacity pressures pushing carriers back toward Suez Why a "safe reopening" may still create winners and losers What procurement and supply chain leaders should be watching for next Links: High Stakes in the Red Sea Kelly Barner on LinkedIn Art of Supply LinkedIn newsletter  Art of Supply on AOP Subscribe to This Week in Procurement  

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#196 - What does it really take to walk away from a peak career, point your bow into headwinds, and chase a goal so big it scares you? I sat down with Malaysian sailor Fabian Fernandez, who circumnavigated the globe on his own terms—eschewing the easy “milk run” to round the Cape of Good Hope and steer straight into the kind of weather that makes legends and humbles egos.Fabian's story isn't a montage of perfect beaches. It's a masterclass in planning, patience, and purpose. He breaks down how years of engineering and manufacturing shaped his voyage like a mega-project: route windows, finances, maintenance, and timing all choreographed to create momentum without gambling safety. He shares why he stopped often, how he used seasons to his advantage, and why the planning was harder than the sailing. You'll hear a frank take on destinations—why French Polynesia felt overrated, why the Cook Islands and South Africa stole his heart, and why he scouted the Beagle Channel only to choose the Panama Canal after weighing joy against endurance in subpolar cold.At the core is a spiritual journey. Thirty-two days alone across the Pacific stripped away the “white noise” of modern life and surfaced a simple truth: meaning grows when you give back. Fabian talks about faith, the courage to quit a prescribed path, and the cruising community's radical kindness that ignores borders, race, and creed. He also honors the ocean's cost, recounting the loss of a careful solo sailor friend—a reminder that respect and preparation are nonnegotiable.We wrap with what comes next: talks on mental resilience, a short documentary, and a book that reframes adventure as an inner stretch, not a postcard. If you need a push to set your own big, hairy, audacious goal—and the practical playbook to make it real—this conversation will nudge you from someday to start. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this with someone who's ready to trade comfort for courage.To learn more about Fabian check out his website www.destinydawnsailing.com and give him a follow on Instagram @destinytwelve.Be sure and check out my Instagram for clips from the show and some snippets into my personal journey @journeywithjakepodcast. Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out. Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.

More than two years has passed since the hijacking of car carrier Galaxy Leader by the Houthis, which signalled the advent of a campaign of terror from the Yemeni rebel group on international shipping. In that time, several vessels have been sunk and many seafarers have unfortunately lost their lives. The impact on global shipping has of course been sizeable, with most key container carriers deciding to reroute services via the Cape of Good Hope instead. But Houthi activity has quelled in recent weeks, with no vessels attacked since Eternity C. in July, after a ceasefire was agreed between Israel and Hamas; the Houthis' purported aim is to support the people of Gaza. Whispers of a return have grown into murmurs, with comments from Maersk suggesting a return to the Red Sea may be sooner rather than later. The Danish giant said it would “take steps” to return to the Suez Canal and Red Sea “as soon as conditions allow” after a meeting with the Suez Canal Authority. So, should we expect a return to the Red Sea imminently then? Joining Joshua on the podcast this week are: Ian Ralby, founder and chief executive, IR Consilium Jakob Larsen, chief security and safety officer, BIMCO Bridget Diakun, senior risk and compliance analyst, Lloyd's List Take the Outlook survey here: https://lloydslist.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1X5A55mVBKM156m

The U.S. Department of Transportation issued an emergency order on September 26th mandating that states immediately stop issuing or renewing non-domiciled commercial learner's permits and CDLs, targeting licenses often held long after their legal authorization to be in the U.S. had expired. This crackdown follows a nationwide Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration audit that linked at least five fatal crashes this year to improperly issued licenses. Industry analysis predicts a significant surge in bankruptcies especially among small and mid-size carriers who built their business models on skirting the law by using non-compliant labor willing to run severe hours-of-service violations. Capacity issues are also global, as ongoing geopolitical uncertainty keeps ocean carriers away from the critical Suez Canal choke point. Maersk's CEO, Vincent Clerc, stated that shipping firms are unlikely to return until security is “reliably restored” due to unacceptably high risks to crews and vessels. This continued rerouting around the Cape of Good Hope has caused container revenue for the Suez Canal Authority to plummet by as much as 60%, locking in elevated costs and longer transit times across the entire global supply chain. Connecting these domestic compliance costs and global operational headwinds, Werner CEO Derek Leathers recently characterized freight rates as "stably horrible" for years in the address, noting that potential tariffs on Class 8 trucks made in Mexico could further inflate equipment costs and cap future capacity. Ultimately, this market reset is being structurally guaranteed not by a sudden demand boom, but by the simultaneous removal of illegal low-cost capacity domestically and persistent geopolitical risk that maintains a high operational cost ceiling globally. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The U.S. Department of Transportation issued an emergency order on September 26th mandating that states immediately stop issuing or renewing non-domiciled commercial learner's permits and CDLs, targeting licenses often held long after their legal authorization to be in the U.S. had expired. This crackdown follows a nationwide Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration audit that linked at least five fatal crashes this year to improperly issued licenses. Industry analysis predicts a significant surge in bankruptcies especially among small and mid-size carriers who built their business models on skirting the law by using non-compliant labor willing to run severe hours-of-service violations. Capacity issues are also global, as ongoing geopolitical uncertainty keeps ocean carriers away from the critical Suez Canal choke point. Maersk's CEO, Vincent Clerc, stated that shipping firms are unlikely to return until security is “reliably restored” due to unacceptably high risks to crews and vessels. This continued rerouting around the Cape of Good Hope has caused container revenue for the Suez Canal Authority to plummet by as much as 60%, locking in elevated costs and longer transit times across the entire global supply chain. Connecting these domestic compliance costs and global operational headwinds, Werner CEO Derek Leathers recently characterized freight rates as "stably horrible" for years in the address, noting that potential tariffs on Class 8 trucks made in Mexico could further inflate equipment costs and cap future capacity. Ultimately, this market reset is being structurally guaranteed not by a sudden demand boom, but by the simultaneous removal of illegal low-cost capacity domestically and persistent geopolitical risk that maintains a high operational cost ceiling globally. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating Non-Rev Travel: Insightful Stories and Pro Tips with John and LisaIn this episode, John and Lisa share their captivating experiences and expert advice on non-rev travel, featuring their adventurous journeys, including attending Dork Fest and the Cape of Good Hope. They delve into John's blog, Fly Run Fun, which chronicles his unique travel experiences interlinked with running marathons across continents. Discussing their expertise in using ZED fares, they provide invaluable tips for travelers looking to travel non-rev efficiently. The couple also recounts unique travel stories, including their visit to North Korea, and offers a cohesive travel strategy that has enriched their family life.00:00 Welcome to the Lounge00:57 Introducing Special Guests: John and Lisa01:53 John's Running Adventures06:57 Non-Revenue Travel Tips16:21 Aviation and Personal Stories29:30 Cape Town Travel Tips42:32 Long Haul Flights and Goodie Bags43:32 Virgin Atlantic Experience45:07 Gifting Etiquette and Experiences47:13 Complex Travel Routes50:17 Z Fares and Travel Tips54:37 Private Jet Adventures01:07:05 North Korea Travel Story01:16:19 Traveling with Family01:16:38 Conclusion and Blog Promotionhttps://www.flyrun.fun/https://www.flyrun.fun/p/a-zed-fare-primerStaffTraveler is offering a 10% code for any of our listeners who buy their eSIM.Use the Promo code ST10NONREVLOUNGE  https://share.stafftraveler.com/nrl-esim✈StaffTraveler is a great app that can assist your non-rev travels! Use it to find the loads for your non-rev travel! Use this to sign up:https://stafftraveler.com/nonrevlounge

I have to say a big thank you to Adi and Janice who hosted me at their farm Kalmoesfontein this week as part of the Swartland Revolution events they're running— I was invited to give a little talk about Jan Smuts of the Swartland and relished the opportunity to delve deeply into a Great South African's early life. And to the folks that came to ask questions and be part of the event, thank you too for such a warn reception. We're going to deal with two main topics in the years 1871 leading into 1872 - One was the installation of Sir John Molteno as the First Prime Minister of the Cape of Good Hope which marked the start of responsible government in the territory. But the other really big event of 1872 was the death of Zulu king Mpande kaSenzangakhona, leaving the way open for Cetshwayo kaMpande to seize the reins of power. It wasn't going to be that simple of course. Let's have a quick squizz at what was going on globally in 1871. The Franco-Prussian war ended, leading to the Proclamation the German Empire in January. The North German federation and South German States were united in a single nation state and the King of Prussia was declared as the German Emperor Wilhem the first. Germany officially came into being for the first time. Otto von Bismarck would soon become the First Chancellor of the German Empire. In French Algeria, the Mokrani Rebellion against colonial rule broke out in March 71, in March the Paris Commune was formally established in France. The Commune governed Paris for two months, promoting an anti-religious system, an eclectic mix of many 19th-century schools of thought. Policies included the separation of church and state, the reduction of rent and the abolition of child labor. The Commune closed all Catholic churches and schools in Paris and a mix of reformism and revolutionism took hold — a hodge podge of folks who pushed back against the French establishment. By late May 71 the commune had been crushed in the semaine sanglante, the Bloody Week, where at least 15 000 communards were executed by loyalist troops. More than 43 000 communards were imprisoned. The Paris Commune left an indelible mark on Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels — two men who, in turn, would go on to cast a long, indirect shadow over the course of world history. In June 1871, the United States launched an assault on the Han River forts in Korea, hoping to pry open Korean markets for American trade. Washington wasn't bothering with tariffs that year — gunboats were quicker. Charles Babbage died on boxing Day, 26 December 1871. A man of many labels—mathematician, philosopher, inventor, mechanical engineer—but one overriding legacy: he imagined the computer before electricity even entered the equation. Babbage's difference engine was the first mechanical attempt to automate calculation - it was his analytical engine that quietly cracked open the future. It carried, in brass and gears, the essential ideas of the modern digital computer—logic, memory, and even programmability. His inspiration? The Jacquard loom, which used punched cards to weave patterns into silk. Babbage observed this and thought: if a loom could follow instructions to weave flowers, why not numbers? Hidden in that question was the dawn of the information age—and even the first glimmer of a printer. The popular movement towards responsible government had arisen in the early 1860s, led by John Molteno - and in a future podcast I will spend more time on his life - a fascinating character who was the first South Africa to attempt to export fruit. He married a coloured woman called Maria in 1841 but catastrophe struck when she and their young son died in childbirth and stricken by grief, he joined a Boer Commando fighting in one of the early Frontier Wars. So it was then that on 22nd October 1872 Cetshwayo summoned all the indunas and izikhulu to kwaNondwengu to announce that King Mpande had died.

Service excellence emerges when businesses solve problems others avoid tackling. This week I spoke with Zohra Shroff from Sealink Logistics, a freight forwarding company that started in 2005 from a one-bedroom apartment in LA. Zohra joined the family business in 2006 and has helped grow it into a comprehensive logistics provider. Our conversation walked through the complete journey of shipping a container from Houston to India. Zohra detailed every step of the freight forwarding process, from initial customer vetting through final container return at destination. Their technology platform allows customers to book shipments, track cargo, and manage payments through their mobile app, maintaining this edge for over six years with live tracking and monthly rate updates. Their approach evolved from simply moving freight to becoming a complete logistics partner handling sea freight, air freight, and domestic transportation under one portal. When customers face problems like container mix-ups or space constraints, Zohra's team works directly with steamship lines to resolve issues rather than leaving customers stranded. This service model applies to any business where customer problems become your competitive advantage. When others walk away from complex situations, stepping in to solve them builds lasting relationships and premium pricing power. The freight forwarding industry reminded me that behind every simple transaction sits a web of coordination most people never see. Zohra's passion for helping customers navigate these complexities shows why service businesses thrive when they embrace the hard parts.     SHOW HIGHLIGHTS I explore Sealink's journey as a logistics company founded in 2005, emphasizing its deep family roots and innovative approach to the shipping industry. I discuss the complexities of the international shipping process, including filing shipping instructions with US Customs and securing an AES number. We highlight the challenges and financial implications for shippers when consignees refuse to pick up shipments, emphasizing the importance of financial due diligence. In our conversation, we examine the role of freight forwarders and the critical importance of service levels and customer support in the logistics industry. We delve into Zohra's entrepreneurial journey, from the jewelry industry in India to co-founding Sea Link in the U.S., illustrating the courage and determination required for such ventures. She provides insights into maritime routes and their impacts on transit times, including the choice between the Panama Canal and the Cape of Good Hope.   Contact Details LinkedIn - Zohra Shroff (https://www.linkedin.com/in/zohra-shroff-383276172/) LINKSShow Notes Be a Guest About IC-DISC Alliance About Sealink International Inc GUEST Zohra ShroffAbout Zohra TRANSCRIPT (AI transcript provided as supporting material and may contain errors) Dave: Good morning Zohra. How are you today? Zohra: Good morning, I'm well. How are you I? Dave: am good Now. Are you calling in from San Francisco, or is that just a background you have? Zohra: No, it's just a background I have. Dave: Where are you calling in from? I am San. Zohra: Antonio Texas. San Antonio Texas. Dave: Yeah, soft spot for me. I went to high school in a suburb of San. Zohra: Antonio, oh, that's really nice. It's a great city, you know, small growing, not too big yet, but I guess eventually getting there. Dave: Yeah, Now are you a native of San Antonio. Zohra: I've been here almost 22 years now, so I think I am. Dave: Okay, and what about originally when? Zohra: are you from? Originally from India, Migrated to the US in the early 2000 and came into Jersey. Stayed there for a couple of years and then moved to San Antonio, Got married and moved to San Antonio. Dave: That's awesome. Zohra: So been here since then. Yes, so it's home now. Dave: That is great. So my wife is a native Texan. I'm what I choose to call a naturalized Texan. We have a saying. I got here as quick as I could. Zohra: I think I can say that now too. You know it's been wonderful, and it's home now. So yeah, it's great. Dave: That is great. So tell me about SeaLink. When did the company start? What prompted it to start? Who started it? Kind of a whole story. Zohra: Sure, sure, definitely. So. Sealink was started by Shaizad. He is my cousin and the forwarding business has been in our family for three generations now. Okay, india. And then my father took it over in the early 80s and 90s and then Shaizad joined him as well after he graduated from college. So he worked in the Indian market on at that point we used to do a lot of brick bulk vessels and we used to do containerized vessels as well. So that's how it all began. And then when Shaizad moved to the US I want to say in 2001, he was working for one of the forwarders and stuff for a few years and then he decided that we should, that he should start on his own. So he started Sealink in 2005 from LA, from his one bedroom apartment, just handling freehand cargo that our sister company back in India was anyways consigning to different agents in the US. And so then we took over that business and that's how we started. And then from there we are here today, grown to a fully export plus import oriented forwarder. So I think that's awesome. Dave: And when did you join the company? Zohra: I joined very early on 2006. So it was yeah, not very late on, so started in 2005. I joined in. I think we were September 2005,. If I'm not mistaken, I think I joined March 2006. Dave: Okay, so Shaizad gets credit for the first six months. Zohra: Yes, Shaizad gets credit for it. Dave: But you get credit for all the growth starting in 2006, right? Zohra: I wish I could take all the credit, but he is a visionary. He is a visionary and without his vision or without his farsightedness on you know what like, we don't want to just be called a forwarder. I don't like saying Sealink is just a forwarder. Because of that, because of his vision, I think we are so ahead of the market in terms of our competitors also and in terms of our vendors also, like overall, I think, for the shipping industry. I think we have it one notch up at, I think, at any given point. You know, just because we have because of his vision. I should again say that, because of Shaizad's vision of not only moving freight but making sure that we are giving service with the service industry and also making sure that we are making sure that we are giving the standard of service with the competitive rates at all time, and I think that is one thing that puts Seelink above. Of course, our technology is our greatest selling point. We've had our app I think so for over six years now six to seven years and you can do everything on our Seelink app you can book, you can give your documents, you can download an invoice, you can download an invoice, you can pay an invoice. You can track and trace your cargo. You can do everything on that app so you are not stuck to see that. Okay, what is going on on my shipment? You know where is my shipment. Why do I need to like hassle bustle and call somebody and someone's not answering the phone? So we have live tracking and tracing that shows on your website that your that your shipment has been delayed or there is a vessel delay or there is a longer transshipment hold. All of that information is available on our app, ready to go. Every month we update our rates so the customers know that in February, if my rate from place A to place B was $500, then we know that March 1st that rate is either going to be $400, depending on the market, or $600. So they have visibility of all of this, which is giving them ease of business. They can make their deals. They can look and then get a figure that, okay, you know what, my freight is going to be so much and my material is going to cost so much. This is what I need to do and this is how I can sell. So we give them all that information. Also, not only we are providing a sea, water services or sea services, we are even providing air freight, we are providing domestic, we are providing trade services. So, for example, if I have a customer who wants to move from Atlanta, atlanta into into Moondra, so I have a rate through the vendor from Atlanta to Moondra to Mundra, so I have a rate through the vendor from Atlanta to Mundra. But if he has a facility in Duluth, atlanta, and then wants to get into on the rail, so we provide that drage service as well. So he can put in his zip code that I need to pick up from so and so zip code, take it to the rail and then it'll go out, you know. So we provide that part of draGE as well, which is really helpful for our customers if they want to go ahead and offer that to their suppliers or to their clients as well. So everything is under one portal and easy access. That's what I can say. Dave: That sounds great. So even though I've been in this business for 20 years, working with exporters, I never really understood how the freight moved. So what I would love for you to do is let's imagine that I'm a brand new scrap broker, scrap metal broker, and I have my first load ready. It's in a container and it's at the Port of Houston. And so let's just imagine like, help me just understand all the steps. So I call you up and I say, zohra, how I've got this uh load of uh of scrap metal at the port in houston and I need to get it to uh, um, what would be a good, a good port in india. Zohra: That that, mundra, let's say. Dave: Let's say, so, walk me through like all the things that that like, just walk me through all the steps that have to happen okay. Zohra: So initially, if I'm onboarding a new scrap customer, we we have an onboarding process that goes into place. You know we we run their credit scores. We, you know, ask for references, we make sure the company is in good standing. Because we do all these thorough checks? Because in the end we don't want a long standing container in some other country where then Seelink is responsible. So we have a thorough vetting process. So it's not like you know, somebody didn't just come to me and say, hey, you know what, I want to move one box of scrap and please help me. It doesn't work like that anymore Because you know there has been so many people who have not done the right thing while moving metal scrap. You know they say that it is metal scrap, but they load something else and it happens. It's just the way the industry is right. So, first and foremost, when we onboard a customer, there is a whole onboarding process. We go ahead, we make sure that the customer is vetted completely. For some reasons, if there is no scores, we ask them for their financials, three years financials and sometimes we even ask for a deposit, depending on the situation of the customer. That's how our onboarding process works. Once the onboarding process is done, then they can go on the website or the app and they can see what port pairs they are moving this freight on. Now, for example, if they are buying from Houston and they want to move from Houston to Moondra, they will plug in on my website Houston to Moondra 120 footer metal scrap and they will see all the steamship lines that I have rates on. It could be MSC, maersk, capagloid, you know all of these top three, four lines where I can say that, ok, this is what your price will. If you want to ship with Maersk, your price is A. If you want to ship with MSC, your price is B. It will give them the transit time. Some of the shippers are very, very, very, very concerned about the transit time. Shippers are very, very, very, very concerned about the transit time. It depends on what they're shipping. If they're shipping ferris and it is, like you know, maybe five boxes they might not be very concerned. But if they're shipping non-ferris, they might be like okay, zohra, I need a 45 day transit. So then I'm telling them okay, choose Maersk or MSC, because their transit is somewhere between 45 to 46 days, you so so let's say so. Dave: Let's say I pick mursk mursk. Zohra: Yes, so then you go on my app and then you hit book. Once you hit book, I get a notification saying abcd has made a booking request from houston to mundra for next week's cutoff for 120 footer. I come inside, I come into play, my team goes ahead, makes the booking on Maersk and turns it around and about. I want to say we want to try to keep it under two hours, so we go ahead and we send a booking confirmation that has all the information of this load. So, the customer exactly knows that, okay, this load needs to get picked up, the empty container needs to get picked up at Bayport Terminal. Okay, once the trucker picks it up at Bayport Terminal, they go to their facility, they get it loaded If the customer is doing their own trucking. If the customer says, or I don't have a trucker in Houston, do my trucking, then I'll offer him, I'll say give me your zip code in Houston, I'll give you a dredge rate and then I can go pick up, schedule your trucking. So I will schedule the trucking, get the container loaded, bring it back to the port, return it loaded at the port and then from there it will sit on the port on the day of the cutoff and then from there we will go ahead and make sure that it gets loaded on the ship. There. We will go ahead and make sure that it gets loaded on the ship. Now, that is where the whole process is working in terms of getting this container into the port. Now, once it's into the port, then it is the customer's responsibility to go ahead and send me shipping instructions. Who is he shipping to? Who is his shipper? Who is his consignee? What is the container number? What is the weight. What is the weight? What is the seal? Dave: is there a name for that set of documents? Zohra: yes, it's called shipping instructions the shipping instructions. So those shipping instructions are given to, given by the, the customer, to us. We go ahead and we put it. Dave: I'm sorry, I don't mean to interrupt. I just really want to make sure understand yeah so those instructions? Is that done electronically through your website? Zohra: We can do it electronically. There are lots of customers who send us emails also, so, however, they are comfortable. Dave: Okay. Zohra: If they feel comfortable, there is a way on our website to go ahead and save their shipper and consignees as well, so they can just click, click and say that, okay, this is my shipper, this is my consignee, and then they just change the container name or the container number and weight and seal number. Dave: Okay, so I've given you the shipping instructions. Zohra: Yes, Now you've given me the shipping instructions, I'm going to go back and send you. I'm going to put everything on the BL and I'm going to send you a draft bl. I'm going to say, hey, this is what your draft, a draft bl will look. So you will go ahead and get a draft bl from ceiling and you will check everything your shipper, your consign what is bl? a bill of lading okay yes, the bill of lading, but this is a draft copy, okay, so we, so we can still make changes. If you say, oh, you know what, I don't want to write metal scrap, I want to write heavy metal scrap. So can you edit that for me? Or if your consignee says you know what, I want to add a notify party, so we're going to be like, ok, we'll add a notify party. So we send you a draft copy and stuff like that and we tell you that, okay, please look at it thoroughly, this is what your draft, this is what your bl is going to look like. Okay, so once they check everybody is in order, we go ahead, we take and we file those shipping instructions with the us customs. We tell them that, hey, this person is shipping this cargo from here to here. These are the details. And then we file the entry into the US Customs. They come back with an AES number for us where it is that OK, you know what. The customs has approved your shipment. This is your AES filing number and now you're good to go. Dave: And what does AES stand for? Zohra: It's an automated uh-oh export system export uh automated export documentation okay, yeah yeah. So it's like uh, it's like an ams that you file from the import side, and where does the and then the uh container number? Is that going to be? Dave: in shipping instructions yeah, so it'll still end up on the bill of lading. Zohra: Yes, yes, everything. All this information, shipper consignee, container number, weight, seal, what commodity you have shipped. Everything will appear on the bill of lading, All of this instructions, so everybody has clarity on what has shipped, who has shipped and where is it going. Dave: Okay. Zohra: Also, and if Seelaling has done the trucking for this customer, then I'm not even asking him for the container number because the trucker will give me. He's my trucker, so he's going to be like hey, I pulled this container number. Once I load it, I'll give you the weight and seals. So once we send out the draft BL, it is approved, we go ahead and we send all the information to the Steam ship line, whichever vendor you chose, and we file everything. Dave: We ask the Now where does it, I'm sorry. When does it ship? From being a draft to being a final After the customs process? Zohra: After sailing, after sailing. So once the customs is processed, we have all our information. Once the shipment is sailed, then the steamship line will be like okay, your shipment has sailed, Everything looks good. This is your original bill of lading. Dave: And sailed is a reference to 200 years ago, right With ship that sails Does it? Just mean it's departed the port. It has departed the port, yes. Zohra: So once it is sailed and then after, I think most of the time, they give us a draft in two days of sailing. The original bill will come out in two days of sailing and then from there, once we have the original bill, the customer does have a choice that if he wants a complete set of original bill of ladings, so that means that's a paper copy, or else he wants a telex, which would be an electronic copy. And then he can say that oh, you know what, I don't mind, my consignee doesn't mind a telex release. So if you can go ahead and update this to a telex release, and is the telex? Dave: is it truly going through the old telex system or is it just being electronic? Zohra: It's through the old telex system or does it just mean electronic? It's just meaning electronic. There's no funny how the language just stays around. Right, yeah, okay, all right, so go ahead. Yeah, so once. So then they have a choice to either have some of the guys if they have an lc, they would like the obl so that way they have control on the cargo, they have control on the money, and then they release the bills once they get paid and if they are confident, if they are a regular shipper and a regular consignee, they might go in for a telex release which is just electronic Gotcha. Dave: So then it leaves Houston, and I'm guessing does it go through the Panama Canal. Zohra: Depends on the routing. Some go through the Panama Canal, some do not, so it just depends on what route the steamship line is taking. Dave: I'm just curious. So if it's going from Houston to Moondra, I mean it's got to get around South America. Zohra: Yeah, yeah. So it would go through the canal and if not, because of all the issues that we're going through now, a lot of steamship lines have been routing it to the Cape of Good Hope. Dave: So they've been going that direction, that direction Around Africa. Zohra: Okay, yes, yes, so that makes it a little bit transit longer, but just the safety was more important at that point. Dave: So a lot of routes. Zohra: At least it's a predictable amount of time even though it's longer, and so if it goes, around Houston to Mondra by the Cape under Cape of Good Hope. Dave: How many days does that typically I? Zohra: think it added. I think it added 15 days to the transit. Dave: So what would that? Be total transit so about 60 days about 60 days. Zohra: Yeah, so I think first it was 45 days and then it became 60 days when they were doing, uh, the cape of good hope. Um, I and you know what, sometimes it even is a little bit shorter. I did see a couple of vessels that were doing 55 days also. So I think it just depends on you know how, how how delayed the vessel is, or if there is any any issues on any transshipment ports and stuff like that. So sometimes it's hard to say if it's going to be like anywhere between 40 to 60 days okay, so now it's on the water, is there just no activity at this point? Dave: is there any? Zohra: hopefully you don't want any activity, you just want everything to be good. But there are things that happen, like you heard about the Baltimore issue that happened early last April. I want to say it's going to be a year that everything was good to go. The vessel was ready to sail and it hit the bridge right and that was disastrous and that lasted for six months. Containers, fellers, fell in the water and you know some got damaged and then you know those things. Yeah, we don't want those things to happen, but of course it is. It is an inevitable. Like you know, hazards happen sometimes, so you would want that. Dave: Yeah, I'm sorry. Yeah, I'm sorry. I know you know this really well and so I'm sorry I have to keep stopping you for such basic questions. Zohra: No, no, not at all Do the containers these days. Dave: Do they have any electronic tracking on the containers? Zohra: Some do and some don't. Okay, so the ones that do like. Dave: Is it RF tracking or a different type of electronic tracking? Zohra: I don't believe they have an RF tracking. Most of our containers do not have a tracker because the lines will only give us 10 plus old, 10 plus year containers to load scrap, I see. So we don't get the nice fancy containers. So, most of us are not trackable. Okay, so my scrap load, load. Dave: It's not being tracked but it's on the boat it's on the boat, and so it's sailing, and then now it shows up in mundra. And what happens now? Zohra: so once it shows up in mundra, the steamship line that you have picked is going to send an arrival notice, five to seven days, to your consignee in India or your forwarder in India, whoever you have put on the BL instructions, so you will get an arrival notice. Dave: Now will you be? Will you be the forwarder in India? Zohra: No, no, we do have our own office in India, but most of metal scrap moves on a master bill, so there is really no requirement of a forwarder per se needed when your shipment reaches destination. Dave: They just need a broker and they can clear their shipment and pick it up at the port. Okay, so the ship arrives, and then that starts the arrival notice. Time clock. Zohra: Yeah. Dave: From the time it's actually lands. No, so the arrival notice you will get from the time it's actually lands? Zohra: no, so the arrival notice you will get five to seven days before arrival. So it gives you it gives you ample of time to say that okay, you know what my shipment is coming in. Let me get my docks ready and file it with the Indian customs. Because you can file, I want to say, four days before your shipment is arriving. Dave: So you're not scrambling, and how do we know that the ship is five to seven days away? Zohra: Is there tracking of the ship? Yes, yes, you can track it. Dave: Does the captain get on the radio? Call Zohra. Yeah, hey, I'm about five days away. Zohra: Yeah, no, so the shipment can be tracked on the steam ship lines website also, and plus on ceilings, on ceilings website as well. so you, will see, definitely that your shipment is arriving in three days or five days. If there is a delay, it will blink red and say that hey, there is a delay. And then when you get your arrival notice from the steam ship line, also it will have a date of arrival. It will be like, okay, you know this shipment is arriving on so and so date, so you are prepared that. Okay, you know what. My shipment's coming in five days. Let me get all my documents ready. Dave: Let me have it send it to my broker, you can start and you can start the process with the india customs four days before. I want to go four to five days before so that way, when the ship lands, the you can you already have your entry done and you already know that. Zohra: You know there are no holds of customs and you've paid your freight and you can go along and say that, okay, you know what, I just need the ship to berth. Once they unload my containers, then you know I can just send my trucker to go pick it up. Everything will show green released. You know, unless they have not paid ceiling, then I'll hold the cargo. Dave: Yeah, okay, and help me understand, because I'm an accountant by training. Help me understand the payment of the shipping. At what point do I pay for the shipping? Zohra: Okay, so we have. I want to say 90% of our customers are cash customers. So, when they need their original bill of lading after sailing. We generate an invoice after two days of sailing most of the time, because the line will give us a BL and an invoice in a couple of days. We go ahead, we generate that, we give it to the customer and when he wants to release his shipment he makes a payment to us. So whether it is an OBL or a DELEX, it doesn't matter. When he will tell me okay, zohra, he can go on my website and say release bill. He can go ahead and it will show him that you owe so-and-so amount for this shipment in order to get your release. He can go make a payment and then within 24 hours he will get a release from us. Dave: Okay, Because without that release will the Indian customs not unload. Zohra: No, the Indian customs doesn't really have any control on that. The Indian customs is only getting involved, saying, okay, I have a vessel that has 200 containers coming into India. I need documents to just make sure that it is what they are claiming it is. So they don't have anything to do with our BL release. They only work with customs release. So if I said that I have moved metal scrap and if there is battery in that box, that's a flag for the US customs and I mean for the Indian customs and they will be like I'm going to hold this box. So at that point that box is on a customs hold. Customs will not worry about a BL hold. There are two types of hold. One is a BL hold where either I or the steamship line is holding it for payment, holding it for payment, and then the customs hold is because there is an exam or there is some kind of uh inspection they want to do on the container or if they find some misdeclarations and stuff like that okay yeah, okay, yeah and then, so it shows up, it goes through customs. Dave: Uh, the freight forwarder there puts it on a truck, yeah, and then the truck goes to the warehouse or wherever they need to originally drop. Zohra: They go ahead, they unload the goods off the container. They make sure everything is weight and the weight is matching to what they had claimed it was. Sometimes the weight has shifted or sometimes they feel like, okay, the weight is less, then internally they will file a claim. It doesn't happen a lot, but some things sometimes do happen. And then, once the shipment has been unloaded, they have to make sure it is their responsibility to return the empty container back to the depot. So, once this empty container is returned back in India, that's when my shipment is closed here. Dave: That okay, you know what. Zohra: My empty container has been returned. This has been picked up. Everything is good, payment is good. We are good to close this file. Okay so one file can be open anywhere from 45 days to 60 days, okay, and then if you have issues with that shipment, then it can go longer. If the consignee refuses to pick up the shipment, the consignee abandons, you know, the shipment and says, oh, I don't, I don't have money to pay for it, I can't pick it up. That's when we get into different problems. You know that. Okay, then we need to figure out what we want to do and we all have to keep in mind that every country, every destination country, gives you a few days of free days. So when my shipment arrives in India with my contracts I have 14 free days. So for 14 days I'm not going to get billed for that container sitting at the port. But on that 15th day the clock will start and then, you know, all those charges for demurrage will start occurring for port charges, and then that becomes an expensive, you know, charge that will be billed back to the shipper here because he will have to take accountability of why his consignee didn't pick up the shipment or whatever happened. Dave: You know, and this is part of why you do your financial due diligence on the customers, because you need to make sure that they're a solid business. Solid business, the customer is going to pick it up. Yeah. Zohra: And sometimes we do the due diligence on the shipper part and you know we don't really know what the consignees are in different countries. So now we've started even collaborating with the US customs and you know we run the consignees also through our AES system and if there is like a faulty consignee, then that gets flagged in our system. This is something very new that we have started and we are proud to say that now we are going to run them also to make sure that you know what. There is utmost ease in this process, you know, not to say that when I run the check he's a good consignee and then in the 30 days or the 60 days of the transit something went wrong. Right, I'm not saying that's not going to happen, but at least at the time of the shipment we know everything is a green check, you know. So that's one extra step that we have started taking now, because of so much long standing in different countries are happening due to consignee abandonments. You know, people not paying the banks, lc issues, frauds, people have said that, oh, they are going to do it and then they don't do it. So because of that we are trying to do this extra check where at least the shipper is also at ease. We are also at ease at the time of shipment, and we have this great tool that the US customer is offering us, and so we've started using that as well. Dave: Okay, yeah. So let's instead imagine that this first container is by a friend of mine. Let's say he tells me oh Dave, these freight forwarders are just so expensive, I'm just going to do this all myself. Sure, I would say to them good luck, yes. I would say good luck, because this sounds like an impossible thing to try to do on your own Virtually impossible. Zohra: So a lot, a lot of customers or BCOs that I can say is like the direct shippers, like, of course, the Walmarts and the targets they have, they have a shipping department that does this, of course. But if you have, like, a small trader who's sitting out of Houston or probably New York, it is not worth his headache to do this, because there are lots of small nitty gritty things that are happening along the way, like, for example, I gave you this booking, okay, from Houston to Moondra. Now you have arranged for a trucker, the trucker is trying to pull an empty and my booking is not on file. Okay you are sitting and making a phone call to that line saying, oh, my booking is not on file. I have a trucker. Your trucker is charging you $65 because he's in line for an hour, gets to the terminal and the booking is not on file. I have a trucker. Your trucker is charging you $65 because he's in line for an hour, gets to the terminal and the booking is not on file. They're not going to let him wait there. He will have to go back in the line. So doing business with a forwarder is bringing you ease of these kind of kinks that are going to cost you financially. It is going to cost you a $65 dry run fee or a $65 detention fee for that guy to turn around and stand back in the line With us. We go ahead and we make sure that their booking is on file. Most of the time the depots are filled with containers. And again, I'm not saying that things don't happen. Of course things happen. But if you are a guy who's moving five to seven boxes a week, you don't have the time to sit and call for every booking and say, hey, is my booking on file? Is my trucker standing there? Do we have chassis, you know? Do the container depots have containers mounted on chassis? Do I have to take my own chassis? What's going on, at least with with us? We are telling them okay, your pickup is here, your booking is on file, go ahead, send the trucker again. Sometimes, when the trucker is there, some things happen. Then we can go ahead and fix it. I just feel like, because we are, our relationships are so much more deeper with the lines, you know what we can try to solve problem faster than someone trying to do this first time on their own or even if they've been in the business. Because these are painstaking things you know, like getting appointments to return. Like APM terminal in New York, it is a nightmare right now. It is a nightmare to get an appointment to return your box. So think about it. It. You pulled a box, you loaded it. Now you need to return it and your trucker is trying to get an appointment right and everything is showing full. Your cutoff is tomorrow. So you know those kind of hassles come in, which all come with the financial costs, and I'm not saying that you know what. Every time we will be coming to the rescue, but I feel like we have. So we have a good leverage to come to solve your problems, to make it easy to ship for you guys. You know our job is to make it easy to ship and you can have, you can have, you can be stress-free and you can concentrate on the growth of your business instead of worrying about how one container is going to move. You know yeah now, that's where we come in well, you've sold me. Dave: When I, if I ever get into the scrap metal business and ship to mundra, you'll be the first call thank you now I understand this now. This may be shocking, but I understand that there are other freight forwarders besides Sealink. Oh yes, oh yes, but help me understand, though I imagine that on the surface it's funny. Every business like when you're an outsider, it looks like a commodity, right, you know, it just looks like they're all the same. So if you don't know anything about, I don't know whatever like, let's say, farming equipment. To me, all farming equipment looks the same. I'm sure there's differences between them. Some do better at some things than others. Some are more expensive, some are cheaper, and so I'm sure that it's like that in the freight forwarding world. So give me an example that it's like that in the freight forwarding world. So give me an example. I'm sure that from time to time you get a call from somebody and says Zohra, my current freight forwarder dropped the ball once again and I'm fed up with them. I want to start using you all. Let's think back to maybe an example of that. And of course you don't mention the customer name or the prior freight forwarder. But what's a typical fact pattern that makes them shift from somebody else to you all? Zohra: so in in all these years of of me being at ceiling, the the majority people turn back to us is because of service levels. If there is a problem, I'm not going to run away. I'm going to sit with my customer, explain to them that this is an issue and we need to work together. It is going to cost. Let's come to that understanding that it is going to cost. Am I going to do my very best to make the cost minimal? Yes, yes, of course, though I know that the customer is at fault or the trucker is at fault, it doesn't matter. But we at Sealing believe that we are not going to haggle our customers when they are in problems to make a quick buck. We're not going to do that. We are never going to do that. So we make sure that if a customer is stranded like I'll give you an example right now, I have a situation I have a booking from A-Line Okay, and we got a container loaded. Okay, we got a container loaded. When the container got returned at the port, we got an email from the A-Line saying hello, this container doesn't belong to us. So then we started digging. We started digging, we found out that my customer had used another forwarder's booking for a line that ceiling doesn't work with. Okay. So there are seven, eight vendors we work with and two, three vendors we don't work with. Okay. So now I have a situation where I have a container loaded sitting in the port which my line is saying Zohra, I can't move it, it's not my box, I can't on hire this box because they won't let me. Though it is a partner box, they won't let me. You need to go to this line and figure out what you want to do. Now, zohra or ceiling doesn't work with this line. And my customer is frustrated because his forwarder, who gave him this booking, is saying oh, I can't do anything. You pulled a box now and my booking I gave it to somebody else so that booking is full. Now okay so now he has no space to accommodate this box here, okay, okay. So I'm not going to tell my customer. Oh, you know what? You got a booking from another forwarder on a line that ceiling doesn't work with. You figure out your stuff, because this container here is already accumulating demurrage, sitting sitting on the boat, which is $250 a day. So now yesterday what I did is I called the line that I don't work with and I gave them the whole rundown. I gave them the container number. I told them see, this is what is going on. I understand we don't work with you guys, but can you go ahead and help us? So yesterday they said okay, you know what, we can help you all. We are going to try to see we can reach out to the other forwarder and increase his booking and make sure that this can get returned at that point. Would that that other forwarder should have taken that step to help his customer, who is also my customer, but because of the service failure, or because maybe he doesn't, he was not able to understand how to problem solve this or troubleshoot this, or probably he just didn't have the resources to do it? I don't know. But if my customer came to me and is stranded. I am going to offer that help. I'm not going to be looking here to make a quick buck and say, hey, I don't work with this guy. Pay these 200 demurrage or go ahead and dray out the container. Pay $900 to dray out the container and then go back reloaded in my Steam Ship Lines box. Dave: I see so what happened in that scenario? Zohra: So now today I mean this is very live. This just happened like two days ago. So now today, hopefully you know, the line that I'm not working with has talked to that forwarder and hopefully we have increased his original booking and now we can attach this container to his booking. Go ahead and tell that line. Okay, please move this. Tell my customer. Go ahead, I have increased your booking. Please go to your forwarder, submit your shipping instructions and make sure your container gets on water on the next vessel. You will have some demerit charges which you will have to settle directly with the port, so they had to find space on the line that owned the container. Yes. Dave: Okay. Zohra: Yeah, the line that owned the container. So right now, because of so much of vessel shiftings, right, every vendor in the market whether it is Maersk, hapag, lloyd, zim, msc, all these lines are relocating services, they're readjusting services. Someone is coming into a new alliance, someone has come out of an alliance. There are lots of new vessels come into the market, larger ships come into the market, so everyone is adjusting a lot of vessels. So that is why it is very space, a space constraint. Right now. There are blank sailings, you know, to make sure that these new services are well adjusted for april. So, uh, so that is why there is this space issue. If there was no space issue, right, there wouldn't be a problem I see the other forwarder could pick up the phone and get it right right and the containers are owned by the shipping lines yes, the container. Dave: That's why, when I see a railroad when I'm sitting at a rail stop yeah comes by. Zohra: I see the maersk yeah, the big blue, because that's one of their containers yes, a musk or any, or a costco hat bag, they they all they all own their containers. Yes, correct, wow. Dave: So how, uh, it sounds like you have to work 168 hours a week, I mean, if you're in the service business yeah, tell me if I'm wrong, but I think moondraw is on a different time zone. Zohra: Yes, yes, yeah it's almost end of working day for them right now. Actually, before this, I was on my india office call. We have our own office in india as well, so we have a call with them once a week to just see what's going on, how's business, what can we do to support from here. So they were already, like you know, getting ready to go home, because it's almost eight o'clock in the night over there so is it safe to assume that you, that eight to five is not the sole hours that you work? there is no eight to five in this industry. No, there isn't. Dave: No, I mean my business you know, is to somewhat the same way. I mean, what I tell my clients is all you need to know about the ic disc is my mobile number. Yeah, that's it. That's all you need to know. Just call me, I'll take care of it. Zohra: Yeah, that's how we are, that's how we are. Customers call us, whatsapp us, email us and we try to service. We try to service. We are in the service industry. We believe our service is, is on top and if, and and I'm not saying c-link is the cheapest, I'm not saying that even at but we thrive on it because we know that. You know our customers, and hats off to our customers. Their support has got us here and they are willing to pay us an extra $25 for what we offer. We offer the app, we offer the service. All my sales reps are very in touch with the customers. They just don't sell and then you never see them. It's not. That doesn't work here. You know we do trade shows. We see our customers there make it a point at least two times a year. We are seeing our customers. We have FaceTime with them. So it's not like you're going to like have a salesperson. Dave: They sell you a rate and then they are gone. It's not going to be like that. Zohra: Your point of contact is your salesperson. Of course we don't want our salespeople to get in operations which they don't. Their work is to sell. But customer is not going to feel like isolated saying that, oh you know what. So, and so was my salesperson at ceiling. They sold me a rate and now have all these problems and I don't know who to go to. You know that problem will never arise. Like you say that problem will never arise like you say that, uh, your cell phone number is what they need for us. It's just just email email me or email one of my reps, and you will get a response, like I can promise that well, you all have a booth at the rima san diego show. Dave: I'll be sure to stop by, will you be wow? Yes, I'm gonna be there I'll be sure to stop by. Oh, that'll be awesome, yeah, we do rima every year? Yeah, we've been doing it for the past several years now okay, yes, so uh, uh, wow, I can't believe how the time has flown. Zohra: Yeah, it's um, it wasn't that bad, like I thought it would, I know. Dave: So, so a couple, so last couple questions what? What do you enjoy the most about your job, like what's the most satisfying part of your role within C-Link. Zohra: Helping my customers. Dave: Okay, I had a feeling that was it? Zohra: I really, really find it satisfying when I see an email saying you know, thanks, Zohra, you saved my life, you know, or you know like. Dave: Chad, he's our sales director. Zohra: You know, thanks, zohra, you saved my life, you know, or you know, like Chad, he's our sales director. You know he'll send out an email saying, okay, you're a miracle worker, not to me, but to my teams as well, right, because sometimes it's, it's very frustrating to get small things done right, and when that small thing gets done, then everything flows. So I feel like once you get them that ease, that, okay, now their cargo is going to flow. I feel, I feel satisfied, my teams feel satisfied, right. So I think, just helping out and making sure we are there, that's, you know, that's, I think, is very important, because if you're missing in this chain, your customer is just going to be stranded, you know. Dave: Yeah, no, that makes makes sense. So last two questions. So one's kind of serious and the last one's fun. So the serious one is um, if you could go back 20 years, and what year did you say you came to the uS? Zohra: I came in 2000. Dave: Okay, so if you could go, if you had a time machine and you could go back and you could give advice to yourself back in the year 2000, what advice or pep talk or insight, would you tell yourself? Zohra: you tell yourself that I should have started this earlier. I did. Dave: I don't know why I waited till 2006, okay, so yeah that you know that's the answer that every client gives yeah, that they, they didn't start the business, or they didn't do this because they were afraid or there was risk or whatever. And the advice they always, almost always, give is don't be afraid, take the risk, do it. Zohra: Yes, yes, I agree. So I'll give you a little background. So before I joined Shaizad, I was working at a wholesale jewelry place. We had, you know, huge wholesale and we had a lot of mexican um imported jewelry. You know, we used to sell a lot like. It was a very different, different field altogether. We used to supply to all the big stores and stuff like that. And then when shazad started this, you know, he told me he's like I don't know if I can, like we'll be able to afford a salary, or you know how it's going to be, because I'm just starting and and and we don't know. You know how it's going to work because right now I don't have overhead expenses. So think about it, right. So, like I said, he's a visionary, right. And he just told me one thing he's like I promise you that you will not regret, right. And at that point I feel he, he was all. He already taken the risk, he had already taken the risk, he had left his job at at another forwarder and taken the risk to start this. And when he told me that you know you won't regret, I just I just took the leap of faith and said you know what? This is it. If I think I would have like thought a little bit more and said, oh, I won't. I don't know how I'm going to replace my income or what's going to happen. I don't know if this is going to work. I feel like maybe we wouldn't be here. So I think sometimes you just take that leap and then leave it up to the big man up and I think it all works out with your hard work. But you have to put in the work, I feel. Dave: Sure, that is great. Well, my last question, a fun one. So in Houston we have a thriving Indian community and I have a lot of great Indian restaurants to choose from. So two questions. One if you want really good Indian food in San Antonio, do you have to go to your kitchen? Zohra: Or are there some good Indian restaurants in San Antonio? Actually, now there are a couple of good Indian restaurants in San. Antonio, I can say that you know. Dave: Because I'm guessing the Indian population in San Antonio is a lot smaller than Indian. Zohra: Yes, it is a lot smaller, but I can now say if you would ask me this five years ago, I would be like nothing my kitchen but, now I can say actually we just went to one day before yesterday and it was pretty nice. Dave: So yes, yeah, I think I am heading to Houston, uh, next week. Zohra: so I'm going to make it a point to go to one of the nice restaurants Indian restaurants to know, get some food, that's great, which I think. Dave: I think the yellow curry is my favorite. What's your favorite curry? Zohra: I think I'm not very fond of curries, but I think I'm not a big. I'm not a big curry person, so, but I think my favorite Indian food would be biryani. Dave: Okay. Zohra: Yeah, the rice with the meat. Yeah, yeah, I think that that is awesome. Dave: Well, Zohra, thank you again for coming on the show sharing your story, the SeaLink story and uh and sharing your passion. It really comes through that you and uh and Shaizad both have a passion for serving your customers, and that's really. It's always fun to hear that somebody's just really enjoying what they do. Zohra: Yes, yes, thank you. Thank you for having me and thank you for letting me talk about sealing, and I hope that whoever listens to this, you know, comes to us and uses us. Thank you. Dave: That sounds great. You have a great day. Zohra: You too, you too. Special Guest: Zohra Shroff.

US-China trade tensions sent shockwaves through the LPG freight markets this spring, triggering route diversions, new trade flows and a surge in freight rates. Uncertainty continues to cloud the market even after a temporary tariff reprieve. Listen to Yohanna Pinheiro, LPG Freight Reporter at Argus, and Freight Editor John Ollett as they unpack how shifting trade dynamics, cautious Chinese buyers, and longer voyages via the Cape of Good Hope are reshaping the global LPG freight.

Keith Weinhold plays a “financial superhero”, defending investors against the "greedy landlord" myth. A Zillow survey reveals the secret sauce of rental success: budget, location, and bedroom count - with pets stealing the show as the ultimate tenant dealbreaker. He exposes the dollar's sneaky inflation plot, showing how savvy investors can turn borrowing into a wealth-building adventure. Imagine homes that cost half their gold price from 100 years ago - mind-blowing!  Real estate investing isn't just a strategy - it's an epic journey of wealth creation!  Resources: GREmarketplace.com/OklahomaCity GREmarketplace.com/Tulsa Show Notes: GetRichEducation.com/episode/557 For access to properties or free help with a GRE Investment Coach, start here: GREmarketplace.com GRE Free Investment Coaching: GREinvestmentcoach.com Get mortgage loans for investment property: RidgeLendingGroup.com or call 855-74-RIDGE  or e-mail: info@RidgeLendingGroup.com Invest with Freedom Family Investments.  You get paid first: Text FAMILY to 66866 Will you please leave a review for the show? I'd be grateful. Search “how to leave an Apple Podcasts review”  For advertising inquiries, visit: GetRichEducation.com/ad Best Financial Education: GetRichEducation.com Get our wealth-building newsletter free— text ‘GRE' to 66866 Our YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/c/GetRichEducation Follow us on Instagram: @getricheducation Complete episode transcript:   Automatically Transcribed With Otter.ai    Keith Weinhold  0:01   Welcome to GRE I'm your host, Keith Weinhold. Are Real Estate Investors greedy by nature? Learn why? In a sense, today's homes are actually half price compared to 100 years ago. Then results from a huge tenant survey that reveals the amenities that you must give renters or else they will leave how media headlines can trick you and more today on get rich education.   Mid south home buyers, I mean, they're total pros, with over two decades as the nation's highest rated turnkey provider. Their empathetic property managers use your ROI as their North Star. So it's no wonder that smart investors just keep lining up to get their completely renovated income properties like it's the newest iPhone. They're headquartered in Memphis and have globally attractive cash flows and A plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and now over 5000 houses renovated. There's zero markup on maintenance. Let that sink in, and they average a 98.9% occupancy rate, while their average renter stays more than three and a half years. Every home they offer has brand new components, a bumper to bumper, one year warranty, new 30 year roofs. And wait for it, a high quality renter, remember that part and in an astounding price range, 100 to 180k I've personally toured their office and their properties in person in Memphis, get to know Mid South. Enjoy cash flow from day one. Start yourself right now at mid southhomebuyers.com that's mid south homebuyers.com   Corey Coates  1:56   You're listening to the show that has created more financial freedom than nearly any show in the world. This is get rich education.   Keith Weinhold  2:12   Welcome to GRE from Cape Hatteras, North Carolina to the Cape of Good Hope, South Africa and across 188 nations worldwide. I'm Keith Weinhold, and this is get rich education. 100 years ago, you could buy the average home with eight kilos of gold. Today, it only costs you four more on that later. But first, as a real estate investor, has a critic or a tenant ever insinuated some form of these two questions to you, either, is it ethical for you to own multiple homes, or even, are you greedy? Now, I doubt that you're going to be asked that question directly, but sometimes you can feel that that's the vibe that someone else is on. Well, there sure are greedy people in the world. You could be rich and greedy, or you could be poor and greedy. Even the definition of greed is an excessive and selfish desire for more wealth than one needs, often driven by a destructive motive. All right, that's the definition like you're willing to destroy other people in the pursuit of wealth that is rather different than acquiring wealth, which is usually done only when you first fulfill the needs of others. All right? Well, say that your critic makes $60,000 per year. Oh, well, then that means that they're in the top 1% of global income earners. I mean, sheesh, then they're like the Jeff Bezos of the developing world. So to help even things out, should your critic have to send half of their salary to Senegal or Mauritania or Burkina Faso if the critic's home has more than one bathroom in it, or they even own one car. Well, then they're fabulously wealthy by world standards. Then do they have to give it away to avoid being greedy? What if they ever worked overtime for extra money? Like is that evidence of certain greed? All that stuff is ridiculous, preposterous amounts don't create greed Spirit does. There is no implicit Machiavellian intent. If you have more wealth than average, where would you even draw the line? Like, once you hit seven rental properties? Oh, that's just fine, but eight of them is too many, or once you live in a home that costs 50% more than an area's median, then is that when it becomes greed? I mean, this doesn't make sense. Higher housing prices these past five years has to do with the lack of housing supply and with the. Abundance of dollar printing. It's those two things. The culprits aren't rental property owners. The culprits are burdensome development regulations and the Federal Reserve printing all the dollars, not your local landlord. Responsible landlords provide and maintain sound housing, and they do that for complete strangers, they're taking a lot of faith. Oh, so then could the tenant actually be the greedy one, if they both resent and expect that treatment from a stranger for free? I mean, real estate investors, hey, we take on risk, DEBT, TAXES, maintenance, insurance, market volatility, and we have the responsibility of building and maintaining a good credit score in most cases. I mean, you're the one that's truly invested in the property, not a tenant that can choose to move out in 30 or 60 days. Landlords are a bit like umpires. They're rarely appreciated, and they only get noticed when they do something wrong. I know I mentioned to you before that when I buy a property pretty soon, I casually mention to my tenant that, you know, each month, I just have to make them aware. Each month I make a big mortgage payment and I have to pay for property tax and insurance on this place. I mean, it's amazing to see how far that little mention goes with both timely rent collection and that they don't resent you as a landlord over time. See, tenants often don't know this because they've never owned property themselves, and actually, as you know, since I use property managers now, I don't make this mention to tenants anymore. See, to tenants often it can feel like they're just sort of renting air, and the rent payments they make to you are very visible to them. What's invisible to them are all of your expenses. You're the one as the investor that's contributing to communities. You are the good steward of a neighborhood's housing stock, and you provide homes for people who either can't or don't want to buy the myth of the evil landlord. It really just ignores realities. I mean, mom and pop investors own 72% of single family rental homes, and the typical landlord owns fewer than three units. Many don't have 401 Ks. I mean, rental properties are their retirement plan. So most landlords, real estate investors, they're not cigar chomping tycoons twirling mustaches atop piles of gold like Scrooge McDuck. They're regular people. So perspectives like this that can really help you ward off both critics and unaware tenants. And you know what odds are, if they had the opportunity, they would often do the same thing at a time when pensions are rare and inflation runs rampant. Who could blame anyone for seeking assets that grow in value and generate income. Here's what you need to know. Everyone plays the financial game in the context of their own economy. You Your critic and your tenant, your awareness and your mindset from listening to the show is merely more broad than others. If everyone understood that being wealthy is actually a choice like you do, we would all be better off. So the bottom line here is that real estate investors are not villains. They're just people trying to build a financial life raft in a financial ocean that is full of icebergs. Rich people aren't necessarily greedy, just like poor people aren't necessarily lazy. Greed exists in somebody's spirit, not in the amount of your net worth or whatever your income level is,.    All right., Well, heading into the summer here, there are more tenant moves than any other season. Rental demand has stayed fairly strong, not super strong, just fairly strong, with rents only up about 2% annually. When you amalgamate single family rentals and apartments, the share of rentals with a concession is dropping because the rental market is fairly strong, and when renters find a place, a lot of them are staying put, like it's the last lifeboat off the Titanic. Of course, these are all phenomena on a national level, and each local area is different. I mean that right, there is something that I could say on nearly every episode with low affordability, the home ownership rate is down and renter numbers are up. Now. I told you a while ago that it would go down that home ownership rate, and in the latest quarter ended, that home ownership rate has dropped from 65.7 down to 65.1 Percent. And that might not sound like much, but homeownership down six tenths of 1% in just a quarter. That means that there are at least about 500,000 new renters in America. More renters means more rental demand, more occupancy, and it's crucial for you to know what those renters want so that you can best serve them again. You're not greedy. You're trying to serve them as well as you can now, Zillow has an arm. It's called the Zillow group population science. It's something I hadn't even heard of until recently. What Zillow did with this group is they surveyed 36,000 US renters of both single family rentals and apartments to find out what trends are and what renters want. And I read their entire lengthy report. I think it was 40 pages, so that you don't have to and what I did is I pulled out the most salient pieces to help you attract and retain tenants, and the top three criteria that renters really consider essential when deciding whether or not to rent your property are the first thing, and 95% said this is that it's got To be within their budget, second, at 85% preferred location. Hmm, does that mean near tacos and coffee shops? And then the third most important thing renters consider essential at 84% is the preferred bedroom count. After that, the Floor Plan and the layout that fits their preferences was most important. After that, it's the preferred number of bathrooms. So note that the preferred number of bedrooms, then, is more important in making the rental decision than the preferred number of bathrooms, although they both matter. And then after that, in order of decreasing importance, is broadband internet, allowing pets and having common amenities like a gym, a business center, a rooftop and a lounge and those things, those common amenities, they were substantially more important for apartment renters than for single family home renters, as you would imagine. And here's key, a separate survey question was asked, What is the main reason that you passed on a particular property and decided not to rent it. Number one easily was that the property prohibited pets. The second biggest choice had to do with pets as well. It was that the property restricted the pet breed or size. The reasons that renters passed on a particular property are so centered around pets. What do pets rule this housing market? Now, that's kind of how it seems. Now, another thing that this survey revealed is like, gosh, it also seems like the age for doing almost anything in America is up. The median renter is age 42 did you have any idea there? 42 probably older than you thought. And the older people are, generally, the quieter they are, and the less they move. The most common application fee paid is $50 that's what the survey found. Hey, maybe that's one thing that hasn't been slapped with tariffs. It's an online world. The typical renter surveyed reported taking only one in person tour. Everything else is swiping, scrolling or going deep on Google Street View. Basically what tenants do is they check out everything online, and then once they've chosen the place that they want to rent, they often make that decision right there online, and then basically that one in person visit is just them showing up to confirm that there aren't any red flags at that place, that they mostly know that they won. And this is good for you if you're self managing and you're showing the places yourselves. I mean, there are just fewer tire kickers than there were back in the day. I mean, hey, talk to your parents. 25 years ago, rental ads were like four lines in a newspaper, no photos at all, so tenants then they had to show up in person to see what a rental place even looked like. Let's look at the percent of renter households in America by household income, less than $50,000 57% of renters were in that range, 50 to 100k 29% and 100k or more, 15% as far as how much security deposit you need to give, 75% of renters said their first month's rent was required to Secure the rental, and only 25% said that they also had to fork over last month's rent to secure it. In a really strong rental market, you can more often ask for that both first and last month's rent to get in. 40% reported getting their entire security deposit back at the end of the rental. Hmm, I guess the. Others pay for that mysterious carpet stain. Most pay additional fees on the rental, 58% and that's things like water, sewer, garbage, recycling or other utilities. And it even includes payment processing. There some landlords charge for that. And again, what I'm talking about here is single family rentals and apartments combined. All right, so more single family renters are going to pay for separate utilities on top of the rent. Of course, about half of American renters have renter's insurance. At 48% I suppose the others are living dangerously. A typical renter uses four websites or apps in their search and as I'm continuing on here with the results from this Zillow Rental survey of 36,000 renters, it also showed that the top three reasons that current renters say that they decide to stay long term are and this is big. I mean, this is about your retention rate. 72% stay long term because they say rental costs are a good deal, that's why they stay next most important is quiet neighbors. Yes, no drum kits or free range toddlers will help in apartments. One noisy neighbor can upset a lot of tenants, but a noisy neighbor that might not be a problem at all when people are dispersed in a single family rental and then the third most important thing in long term retention is 68% of renters stay in a unit because they can't afford to move elsewhere. Two thirds of tenants said their landlord or property manager notified them of a rent increase in the past two years, 37% of renters said they would be very or extremely likely to buy a home if mortgage rates fell. All right, that's about three in eight renters say that as far as the length of leases in America, 64% signed on for a one year lease, and 24% said their lease is longer than a year. So really, to summarize what you've learned here from that survey is that you need to know your audience, 42 year olds with pets and a strong preference for quiet neighbors. Keep your pricing competitive. Embrace tech. People want to apply and pay and do things online, and your tenants will stick around longer. You can either give a man a fish and feed him for a day, or teach a man to fish and feed him for a lifetime.    Here at GRE, we do both get riched occasion.com. Is where you learn through this very show and our videos over there, and our blog articles and more. The name gre marketplace.com is where you take action and see the markets and providers that make the best income properties nationwide. GRE marketplace is also where you get access to our totally free investment coaching strategy sessions with a real human being that has both an MBA and investing experience. And that's something we added three or four years ago that really helps you be profitable as an investor, get paid five ways so that you can have more income and wealth and perhaps even retire early. We help you find the right exact property addresses. That's what we help you do compared to 100 years ago, homes are half price today. This is fascinating. I'll get into that shortly. I'm Keith Weinhold. You're listening to get rich education.    The same place where I get my own mortgage loans is where you can get yours. Ridge lending group NMLS, 42056, they provided our listeners with more loans than anyone because they specialize in income properties. They help you build a long term plan for growing your real estate empire with leverage. Start your pre qual and even chat with President Caeli Ridge personally while it's on your mind, start at Ridge lendinggroup.com. That's Ridge lendinggroup.com. You know what's crazy?    Your bank is getting rich off of you. The average savings account pays less than 1% it's like laughable. Meanwhile, if your money isn't making at least 4% you're losing to inflation. That's why I started putting my own money into the FFI liquidity fund. It's super simple. Your cash can pull in up to 8% returns, and it compounds. It's not some high risk gamble like digital or AI stock trading. It's pretty low risk because they've got a 10 plus year track record of paying investors on time in full every time. I mean, I wouldn't be talking about it if I wasn't invested myself. You can invest as little as 25k and you keep earning until you decide you want your money back. No weird lockups or anything like that. So if you're like me and tired of your liquid funds, just say. They're doing nothing. Check it out. Text family to 66866, to learn about freedom. Family investments, liquidity fund again. Text family to66866   Speaker 1  20:17   what's up? Everyone? This is HGTV. Tarek al Musa. Listen to get rich education with Keith Weinhold, and don't quit your Daydream.   Keith Weinhold  20:35   Welcome back to get rich Education. I'm your host. Keith Weinhold, the headlines say homes are so expensive that you'd think millennials would be forced to live in IKEA showrooms. Now, a year or two ago, here on the show, I think I mentioned to you that at that time, it took eight kilos of gold to buy the average home, about 100 years ago, and at that time, only six. Well today, it took eight kilos of gold to buy an average home in 1920 but it's only four kilos now, in terms of gold, homes are half the price today, and I sent you that pretty shocking image showing this in our newsletter a month or two ago. So what in the monetary twilight zone has happened in the past 100 years? Well, a lot of things. The 1913 creation of the Federal Reserve inflated away your dollar's purchasing power over time. This was basically like giving your teen a credit card with no limit and hoping for the best, then removing the dollar's last link to gold redeemability in 1971 that freed the rains for unlimited dollar creation. And Robert Kiyosaki was here to discuss exactly that on the show with us on episode 358 go back and listen to episode 358 if you haven't heard it and you want to. Before long, dollars got so flimsy that dive bars started stapling them to the wall as decor, and it seems like the next stop for the dollar is kindling for your backyard fire pit. Now, there is, however, an affordability problem today that keeps renters staying as renters. But part of the calculus here is that homes only seem expensive because their values are usually compared to dollars. But that's faulty, because dollars are a moving measuring stick. This is like saying that an hour has 60 minutes in it this year and next year, it'll only have 55 minutes in it. That doesn't work. I mean, she should a few years, everyone would run a marathon in under an hour at that rate. Okay, so changing the measuring stick defeats the very purpose of a measuring stick. Here's what's even more amazing than that fact about the gold, despite that, homes only cost half as much today as they did in 1920 in terms of gold, you also get more home today. Today's homes have smaller lot sizes, smaller yards, but otherwise they have amenities that people couldn't have even dreamed of in 1920 I mean, this is really interesting. Let's compare a typical 1920 new home to a 2025 new home. We've gone from 1048 square feet up to 2411 so the size has more than doubled. Back then there was no Garage. Today you've got a heated garage. Back then you had one bathroom or even an outhouse in 1920 Oh, today you have two or three or even more indoor bathrooms in just the average new build home back in 1920 you had a wood burning stove that you had to keep loading, and you're like splitting and stacking firewood and storing that somewhere. Today, you have central heating. Just push a button. Back more than 100 years ago, you had no AC. Today, AC is completely standard. You had no insulation a lot of times in 1920 homes today you've got smart insulation. You used to have a very basic kitchen. Today you've got a center island and granite and quartz countertops. You had an ice box back in 1920 and a nice refrigerator or two. Today, back then, you had no dishwasher or garbage disposal. Today, you have both. Back in 1920 you had to use a washboard in a ringer to wash and dry your clothing. Can you imagine that today you have a washing machine? You had an outdoor clothesline back then today you have a dryer back in. 1920 you had these claw foot bathtubs, and often no shower. Today you have both bathtubs and showers, and several of them. Back then you had nothing where today you have a dedicated laundry room, and a lot of times a home office, and sometimes even a gym. I mean, so all those changes right there over the last 105 years. This really puts the exclamation point on the fact that homes are cheaper today. In terms of the value that you get, today's homes might be a third or a quarter of the price that they were a century ago. You can't point to mortgage rates either. They're still below their long run average of 7.7% per Freddie Mac the thing you've got to point to, the big problem here, the elephant in the room, is that salaries have not kept up with inflation, and that is the real crux of the problem in hurting homes affordability. Look, and this could be a real epiphany for you here that affordability fact is even more reason to move today's depreciating dollars into real assets and move that with emphasis and with urgency, dollar savers are just such massive losers. All right, so then, what is the opposite of saving dollars? Some people think it's spending dollars. No, the opposite of saving is not spending. It's borrowing dollars. That's how you go negative on that. The opposite of spending is not saving, it is borrowing. That is how you go negative and short the falling dollar. This really it's all just a fresh approach on what people need to consider doing. Borrow dollars, own income property, let tenants pay your debt, let inflation also shrink your debt like a cheap shirt that spends too much time in a clothing dryer, and just watch inflation pump up your asset price at the same time. Now you are just winning all over the place. You are racking up more wins than Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open. That's why I am resolute about saying what no one else out there says real estate done right is not an inflation hedge. A hedge is a defensive investing strategy where you break even. I mean, no one plays a game hoping for an outcome of a tie, spending money as an inflation hedge. That's why I refer to borrowing for income property as inflation profiting. That's the reason why. And see, other people's money pays down your debt, both the tenant and the inflation are whittling that away for you. Oh, and hey, for my fellow math weirdos, in 1920 a new home cost $6,300 and there are 35 ounces in a kilo of gold, and you can figure out the rest from there to see that homes cost half as much in gold. Now the bottom line here is that the real estate market is not broken. The dollar is and that dollar measuring stick is so miserably distorted and perverted that some people can't even see what's going on anymore. I've got another interesting way of helping you see this.    Let's look at something more recent than 1920 let's go back 30 years. Do you have any idea what the median us home price was then? Any guess 30 years ago, that's kind of charming. It was a modest $130,000 All right, with an 80% loan and zero principal pay down your mortgage balance would be a featherweight 104k today, that is a clear way of seeing how inflation debases your debt. And of course, the tenant would have paid it off for you by now as well. But I mean a loan balance of $104,000 without any principal pay down, sheesh, that's less than some people's American Express card limit. Really think about that by removing the principal pay down component, you can really see with transparency and lucidity the effect of inflation whittling down a loan balance to 104k and that is just 25% of today's median home price of $416,900 that is a stark example of inflation profiting, how your debt got relentlessly debased by the Fed. And of course, rental properties tend to be less expensive than this median number that I'm talking about. So the typical rental property is. In this scenario, you might just have a loan balance of 75k today, here, 30 years later, and the property would be worth, say, 300k inflation makes your loan balances feel like a featherweight over time. All right, now let's go somewhat further back in time again, 1950s Florida.    Last month, in our newsletter, I sent you those fascinating old newspaper clippings from a real estate sales ad from 1955 in the Miami area and a two bedroom, single family home, one bath, screened porch and a carport. Its price was $7,450 for the entire Miami area home. And the ad also showed that your monthly payment is $48 and then, okay, so that was a two bedroom, single family home this Miami area, three bed, one bath home with a screen porch, $7,900 so only an extra 450 bucks for an extra bedroom, that is the purchase price of the entire asset. And the monthly payments on this three bedroom are 50 bucks a month, a little more than the 48 bucks a month that it was for the two bedroom. And here's the thing, the monthly payment amount, as shown in this old newspaper advertisement, $48 and $50 that was principal, interest, taxes and insurance all together, a jaw dropping sub 8k for a Miami area home, not just Florida, but pricier Miami. I mean, can you imagine a Florida couple's home buying conversation in the mid 1950s there at Florida, honey, you're crazy if you think we're going to pay an extra $2 per month for a third bedroom. I mean, this is just astonishing. And yeah, my apologies for leaving you flabbergasted so many times in one episode. Gosh. Now to be sure, wages were lower back then, but back then, only one parent had to work. They still managed to buy homes, raise a family, and even pay for a milkman who actually delivered the milk. And now, you know, if we fast forward to the future, future generations, they're going to marvel at today's incredibly low median home price of 400 to 450k Yes, therefore you will be the one doing the flabbergasting, and you'll leave people From 2070 feeling abjectly flabbergasted when the median home price is $4 million then, I mean, it realistically could be, it could be more than that. It's the same way that today we're astonished at 1960s McDonald's menus where a burger was 15 cents. Yes, 15 cents is seriously how much McDonald's hamburger cost in the 60s. And of course, this is when restaurants also serve real meat and french fries cooked in tallow rather than seed oils, and shakes had real cream in them. That's all evidence of simultaneous skimpflation. But getting back to the monetary inflation, you know, as recently as 2011 we can even feel dazed and amazed about how the median home price, then was just $211,100 Yes, as recently as 2011 you're surely dazed and stupefied here, one thing I know, though, is that this did not leave you slack jawed, because Between you and I, we know there's only one slack job between us, and we know full well that that's not you. The bottom line, the bottom line here is that zooming out over time reveals a clear, uncomfortable truth. Savers get roasted, borrowers get rich. This is just a new way of looking at it.    And if you're a newer listener and you don't get our newsletter yet, it is free, full of value, and I write every word myself. There are more AI generated newsletters out there. That is not what this is. This is me to you, and to get the newsletter right now. Text. GRE to66866, 66866, we don't send you a bunch of texts that would be intrusive. It's an email newsletter. You can get it by texting GRE to 66866   Now, earlier this year, I talked with you about how home sales have crashed. When people read a media headline like that, home sales crash. You know, some people think that home prices are falling, but that's not. What that means is, you know, it means that the quantity of sales has fallen a lower transaction volume. With that in mind, to help you out in the future, when you're reading. For real estate and economic headlines, I jotted down a few fictitious headlines here, but yet they're the same type that you've seen before, and you'll see these again in the future, and they can be misleading. So let's straighten this out. Okay, here's the first fictitious yet realistic sounding headline, what people often think it means and what it really means. Developer uses tax loophole to deliver 200 unit apartment complex All right. Now, some people read that and they think that the developer is doing something nefarious or underhanded. No. Sometimes reporters use this word loopholes to describe legally created incentives to get much needed housing built. Reporters are often doing yeoman's work on behalf of NIMBYs. If this thing is producing more housing, then we need more loopholes, which are really incentives just like it. Here's another misleading headline. Now, almost all of the 50 states have a lower level of housing inventory than they did pre pandemic, but this headline says, Tennessee housing supply 4% more than pre pandemic levels. All right, some might see that headline and think, Oh, I guess that housing is a little oversupplied. Now, no, not necessarily, because most states had a scarce supply of inventory even before the pandemic hit back in 2020 the next headline is existing home sales fell off a cliff. All right, Did you note that this only includes existing homes, meaning resale homes, because, again, the headline is existing home sales fell off a cliff. So this doesn't include new builds. And there's nothing inherently falsified about some of these headlines. They just get misinterpreted. Softwood lumber prices hit all time record high. Okay, well, with persistent inflation, this might not be reason for alarm. Is it even an inflation adjusted high or not? Here's a headline, California leads the nation in out migration. All right, some people see this and assume that the California population is dropping. Well, maybe, maybe not. Again, the headline was, California leads the nation in out migration? Well, raw numbers aren't per capita. Cali is the largest state by population at almost 40 million. And also, if their in migration exceeds this out migration, well then they had positive net migration. And all of this doesn't even count births or deaths. You'd have to factor that in as well. The next headline is foreclosures Spike 50% year over year. Ooh, that sounds bad. And although this is a fake headline, just like the other ones that I'm telling you about, a phenomenon like this did recently occur, actually, but it's still at a really low level. It just rose from an extremely low level, two tenths of 1% up to three tenths of 1% that's a 50% gain. Here's a headline. You might see mortgage rates have dropped 2% this year. Maybe you'll see that in the future. Most people read something like this, and they assume that real estate values will resultantly soar. Well, maybe, maybe not. It sounds like homes are more affordable, and they would be, but the Fed might be cutting rates because the economy needs the help. It could mean we're in a recession. So if wages are down, even if mortgage rates are down, it might not actually be less affordable. The next fictitious headline is Philadelphia new build home prices surge 8% Oh, you're thinking that's got to be good, right? Well, I don't know what if new build Philly homes are constructed with 10% more square footage this year, but the price is only up 8% so they're actually selling at a lower cost per square foot. And this is also why existing home price change is more meaningful. The next fictitious headline is unemployment claims jump 30% in a week. All right? Well, this usually doesn't mean that there are mass layoffs and some economic Armageddon. If initial jobless claims rise from 200 up to 260k that's a 30% jump, but it's still low relative to recession levels, which are typically 400k plus and the last fictitious headline, Warren Buffett, b, u, F, F, E, T, invests $10 billion in apartment REITs. Oh, well, Buffett was spelled with only 1t Buffett should be spelled with a double T. Have you ever noticed that it is the most frequently misspelled name in financial media that's all for the headlines, so having the wherewithal about these sorts of things can help you better interpret what's happening in Real Estate's Future and the economy's future.    One of the most inexpensive national markets, I'll say, outside the Midwest, where you can own income property, where the numbers really make sense. An investor advantage place is in the state of Oklahoma. Some of these Oklahoma properties that we've begun dealing with here, they're pretty small. Like check out this single family rental I want to tell you about that's just 864 square feet. You know, more tenants desire this type of housing. Family sizes are smaller today, yet they want separation in the privacy of a single family home. And this one is brand new build, two beds, two baths, and the price is, get this $155,000 for new build. Yes, you heard that, right, and the projected rent is really strong. $1,250 I mean, this sort of cottage sized new build home is the type of product that can make the best rental, because if it were double the size, you might only get 50 or 60% more in rent. Now there's no garage on this new build 155k property, and you get all the finishes that you would expect from new construction. The second Oklahoma property to tell you about is this Tulsa duplex. This one really stands out. And Tulsa has over a million people in the metro. It was built just several months ago, $2,900 rent on a purchase price of about 360k and these ones, they've consistently appraised in the 375 to 380k range. So you could very well get some built in equity here with this duplex, where the numbers work pretty well as it is, each side of this new duplex has over 1300 square feet, three beds, two baths on each side, free management the first year, $3,000 cash to you post closing, all the nice finishes you'd expect with new build in this Tulsa duplex. So these two properties I've discussed here are really investor advantaged all new build. And that 155k single family rental was in Chickasaw, Oklahoma. And then the Tulsa duplex in the mid to high three hundreds. The next one is the last one. I'll mention. It's not as good of a deal, but it does look nicer because it's a brick faced new build single family rental for 320k in Lawton, Oklahoma. Lawton is more southwestern Oklahoma, with $2,400 rent, and it's 1800 square feet in this new build and just a little positive cash flow. The property tax rate is 1.1% property insurance is just 1250, a two car garage, all the types of finishes that you would expect with new build. So a property like this is if you're looking for a better quality tenant. Oklahoma City has had more happening than usual. You might have heard that the tallest building in the United States is planned to be built in Oklahoma City, yes, taller than anything in New York or Chicago. The Oklahoma City Thunder NBA team has been performing well. You know, those things are merely interesting and have almost nothing to do with the investor advantage. Rental properties, again, all three that I mentioned, there are new build. Not only are we in this persistent national housing shortage, but these entry level homes that make the best rentals, they're the ones that are in even shorter supply. That's a fact I probably don't mention to you often enough. The home ownership rate is down because of strained affordability, so you may very well have a long term tenant in these properties, and then you layer on the fact that they're new build, and it really looks promising for tenants wanting to stay for the long term. Check out the market and the provider. Learn more at either gre marketplace.com/oklahomcity or slash Tulsa. Yes, new build Oklahoma properties, if you're not sure about the exact address, that's going to provide you with the highest returns, our free investment coaching can help you with that as well borrow dollars with long term fixed interest rate debt that both tenants and inflation just relentlessly pay down for you while your expected price appreciation. Can leverage dollars at the same time. Start at gre marketplace.com/oklahoma, city or slash Tulsa until next week. I'm Keith Weinhold. Don't quit your Daydream.   Speaker 2  44:52   Nothing on this show should be considered specific personal or professional advice. Please consult an appropriate tax, legal, real estate, financial or business professional. Additional for individualized advice. Opinions of guests are their own. Information is not guaranteed. All investment strategies have the potential for profit or loss. The host is operating on behalf of get rich Education LLC exclusively.   Keith Weinhold  45:16   You know, whenever you want the best written real estate and finance info, Oh, geez. Today's experience limits your free articles access, and it's got pay walls and pop ups and push notifications and cookies disclaimers. It's not so great. So then it's vital to place nice, clean, free content into your hands that adds no hype value to your life. That's why this is the golden age of quality newsletters. And I write every word of ours myself. It's got a dash of humor, and it's to the point because even the word abbreviation is too long, my letter usually takes less than three minutes to read, and when you start the letter, you also get my one hour fast real estate video. Course, it's all completely free. It's called the Don't quit your Daydream letter. It wires your mind for wealth, and it couldn't be easier for you to get it right now. Just text gre 266, 866, while it's on your mind. Take a moment to do it right now. Text, gre 266, 866,   The preceding program was brought to you by your home for wealth, building, getricheducation.com.

John Maytham is joined by Warwick Eccles, Development Executive at award winning South African production house Mannequin Films, to explore the chilling world of Good Hope, the debut political thriller by Nick Clelland, recently optioned for screen adaptation. Set in a dystopian version of Cape Town, now an independent and heavily surveilled Cape Republic, the novel imagines a society where public executions coincide with the Noon Gun and only the qualified may vote Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The guys take a quick deep dive down to Cape Town, South Africa…Haunted Castle of Good Hope!!! https://thelittlehouseofhorrors.com/castle-of-good-hope/ https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_of_Good_Hope https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=1Hh8ScA5qB0 https://seeksghosts.blogspot.com/2016/03/castle-of-good-hope.html?m=1

On this episode, Tony Brueski digs into the enigmatic history of the Castle of Good Hope, South Africa's oldest surviving colonial building. Built in the 17th century by the Dutch East India Company, this formidable fortress has been the epicenter of Cape Town's military and political life. Beyond its historical significance, the castle is shrouded in tales of paranormal activity, from the restless spirit of Governor van Noodt to the mysterious ringing of the sealed bell tower.  Join Tony as he unravels the layers of history and mystery, exploring the events that have solidified the Castle of Good Hope's reputation as one of the most haunted sites in the Southern Hemisphere.

On this episode, Tony Brueski digs into the enigmatic history of the Castle of Good Hope, South Africa's oldest surviving colonial building. Built in the 17th century by the Dutch East India Company, this formidable fortress has been the epicenter of Cape Town's military and political life. Beyond its historical significance, the castle is shrouded in tales of paranormal activity, from the restless spirit of Governor van Noodt to the mysterious ringing of the sealed bell tower.  Join Tony as he unravels the layers of history and mystery, exploring the events that have solidified the Castle of Good Hope's reputation as one of the most haunted sites in the Southern Hemisphere.