Podcasts about gpo

No Economic Block on Irish UnityIn recent years there have been encouraging signs of growing support for Irish unity in successive electoral results, demographic changes, contributions from civic society, in opinion polling and in public commentary. Unsurprisingly, any debate on unity quickly focuses on practical issues like the economic viability of a united Ireland as well as on the future of a health and care system, governance structures, education, the environment and other matters.Sinn Féin's Commission on the Future of Ireland recently held a successful conference examining the issue of health in a new Ireland and the party produced a widely welcomed health and care document looking to a future all-island model. It is available at  https://sinnfein.ie/the-case-for-an-irish-national-health-and-care-service/And now we have the report by Professor John Doyle of Dublin City University – ‘The Projected Public Finances of the Early Years of a United Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Subvention.' The report is the product of joint research by Dublin City University and Ulster University's Economic Policy Centre. It succeeds in cutting through much of the jargon associated with economics to present a cogent explanation of the economic benefits of a united Ireland.The Future of the GPOMicheál Martin's ten-year plan for the GPO site in Dublin is shameful. His effort to sell the plan as a flagship project for Dublin City Centre, that will protect the historic and cultural significance of the GPO, was described by the Irish Times as “vague and ill-defined.” Mary Lou McDonald and others have been much more vocal and direct in their condemnation of the government's plans. Martin's proposal, for example, that the upper floors of the GPO will be turned into office space, makes no sense when much of the available office space in central Dublin is currently unused and vacant.The reality is that the GPO holds a special place in the nation's soul. It may have been a Post Office for all of its two hundred years but it is more than just another of those Dublin buildings that reflect the capitals colonial past. It is acknowledged by generations of Irish people as the birthplace of the Republic, as envisaged in the Proclamation. For over one hundred years it has symbolised the hopes, aspirations and vision of that historic document and of the courage of the men and women who risked everything in April 1916.World Premier in Galway of ‘A Ballymurphy Man'This weekend I will be in Galway for the 37th annual international Galway Film Fleadh/Festival. The Fleadh runs for a week every July.  This year it's between 8 July and 13 July. It was established in 1989 as a place for Irish filmmakers to exhibit their work to their peers.  This year it will host World, International and Irish Premieres in the Town Hall Theatre and Pálás Cinema.It will feature 31 World Premieres, 11 International/European Premieres and 46 Irish Premieres from 44 countries, featuring 96 feature films in totalJoin the campaign to “Save the GPO”. Sign the petition which calls for the development of a 1916 Cultural Quarter in the area around the GPO, O'Connell Street and Moore Street and the implementation of the Moore Street Preservation Trust plan. We must fight to save the GPO together.Sign the petition here:

Public sector retirees impacted by the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset should see their benefits fully updated by November. The majority of affected beneficiaries already began receiving their increased monthly benefit amounts in April. But the Social Security Administration says it's still working through some of the more complex cases. The Social Security Fairness Act, signed into law in early January, eliminated both the WEP and GPO. The two longstanding Social Security provisions had been reducing or eliminating benefits for many public sector annuitants.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Government has been accused of "showing complete disdain" for the heritage of the GPO on Dublin's O'Connell Street amid calls for the building to be redeveloped into a significant cultural quarter.Peadar Toibin, TD for Meath-West and Leader of Aontú, and James Geoghegan, Fine Gael TD for Dublin Bay South, join The Last Word to debate what should be done to revamp the historic site.Catch the full chat pressing the 'Play' button on this page!

At long last New South Wales has a female Government Architect. At the same time, the Government Architect's role has gone from making buildings, like the GPO on Martin Place, to offering Ministerial advice. As Government Architect, Abbie Galvin has promoted Design with Country, low-rise mixed-use development and is generating the much-debated NSW Pattern Book. Abbie Galvin joins Elizabeth Farrelly on The Sydneyist podcast to [...]Read More... from ABBIE GALVIN GOVERNMENT ARCHITECT

With Wimbledon well underway we get a masterclass in this year's viral trend: the strawberry and cream sandwich!We chat to architect Roisin Murphy on the changes to the GPO and whether it's a good idea to turn an historical building into a shopping mall Our summer series on great Irish gardens begins and this week we take a look at Mount Congreve in Co WaterfordAnd if you are renovating the smallest room in the house Denise O'Connor has lots of tips.

PalestineThe Israeli forces as part of their on going genocide, in the last 24hrs have killed 142 Palestinian civilians, and injured 487. InternmentA British Supreme Court judgement in 2020 ruled that almost 400 internees were unlawfully detained under British law in the 1970s.  These internees are now elderly and some are quite poorly.  They were victim of appalling treatment at the hands of the British state forces and were held in shameful conditions.‘British Prime Minister Keir Starmer made his views clear earlier this year when he told the British Parliament that he would block compensation.Internment was an abuse of power and a denial of human rights by the British state.  This was compounded for these 400 because the British government breached even its own law.The original injustice endured by the internees will be deepened by the stupidity of a vindictive British government which doesn't accept its own law.  Another example of the British waiving the rules when it suits their political agenda Defend the GPOThe Dublin GPO and the streets and laneways around it are forever linked with the Easter Rising of 1916. This is a Battlefield site of major historic and international significance which successive Irish governments have failed to develop properly. Successive promises of investment and planning in Moore St have come to nothing. Succesive governments have reduced the National Monument to four houses leaving the rest of the historic area to be destroyed by a London based developer.In keeping with this shameful approach the Irish government last week published a 10-year plan which will see the General Post Office (GPO) become a mixed-use development. The spin from Government is that the GPO will become a flagship project, including retail and office components with a Designated Activity Company being established. Uachtarán Shinn Féin Mary Lou McDonald TD described it well when she said the government's proposal as “another shameful betrayal of Ireland's proud revolutionary history.” In any other city in the world we would see visionary, ambitious plans to develop the site, preserving our history with a national museum, arts and culture, education, tourism and homes to make it a living, breathing area.So, join the battle to Save the GPO and Moore St. Sign up to the petition and support the campaign of the Moore St. Preservation Trust for a modern historical quarter – shaped around the GPO, Moore Street Battlefield site and O'Connell Street. The link is: https://outreach.sinnfein.ie/save-the-gpo/ Kneecap AbúWell done to Kneecap and those other performers at Glastonbury who stood up to the British political and media establishment and courageously spoke out against the Israeli genocide in the Gaza Strip and the west Bank. Well done also to the tens of thousands who applauded and cheered as Mo chara, Móglaí Bap and DJ Próvaí, demanded ceasefires, an end to the mass murder of Palestinian people and stood up to the censorship of the British Broadcasting Corporation. Féile an Phobail – A festival extravaganzaThis week I was given a copy of the minutes of a meeting held on the 22nd June 1902 in the Catholic Boys Hall on the Falls Road to establish a league for junior hurlers. The venue was the Catholic Boys Hall. So far I have three locations for this hall. One is off Dunlewey Street not far from

Parce que… c'est l'épisode 0x606! Préambule Nous avons rencontré un problème technique durant l'enregistrement. L'équipement a cessé de fonctionner, sans que nous nous en rendions compte. Nous avons conservé le segment qui est utilisable. Shameless plug 12 au 17 octobre 2025 - Objective by the sea v8 10 au 12 novembre 2025 - IAQ - Le Rendez-vous IA Québec 17 au 20 novembre 2025 - European Cyber Week 25 et 26 février 2026 - SéQCure 2026 Description Ce podcast enregistré lors de NorthSec réunit l'animateur et Martin Dubé pour une discussion nostalgique sur l'évolution de la communauté cybersécurité québécoise, particulièrement autour du Hackfest et de NorthSec. Les débuts du Hackfest et l'innovation des CTF Martin Dubé raconte ses débuts en 2010 au Hackfest, alors qu'il était étudiant en deuxième année d'université. À cette époque, l'événement était très différent d'aujourd'hui : les organisateurs transportaient des serveurs physiques hébergés chez eux jusqu'à l'hôtel, utilisant des technologies comme Proxmox et VMware. Cette période artisanale contraste fortement avec l'automatisation moderne mise en place par des équipes comme celle de Laurent au NorthSec. L'innovation majeure de cette époque fut l'introduction du format “attaque-défense” pour les CTF, remplaçant le traditionnel format “jeopardy” (matrice de challenges par catégories). Ce nouveau format permettait aux participants d'attaquer les infrastructures des autres équipes tout en défendant la leur, créant une dynamique plus réaliste et complexe. Leadership et apprentissage par la pratique Martin souligne l'importance de l'aspect leadership dans son rôle de responsable des CTF. Gérer une équipe de bénévoles non rémunérés lui a enseigné des compétences précieuses en gestion d'équipe, motivation par la reconnaissance et coordination de projets complexes. Cette expérience s'est révélée cruciale pour sa carrière professionnelle, démontrant que l'implication dans la communauté offre bien plus que des compétences techniques. Il encourage fortement les nouveaux arrivants dans le domaine à s'impliquer dans de tels événements, car cela permet de garnir son CV d'expériences pertinentes et facilite l'entrée sur le marché du travail. Cette recommandation reste valable aujourd'hui, même si le domaine s'est professionnalisé. L'innovation de la track Windows Un moment marquant fut la création de la “track Windows” au NorthSec, une innovation que Martin et Stéphan Sigman considèrent comme pionnière. Contrairement aux challenges synthétiques habituels, cette track simulait un véritable environnement d'entreprise avec Active Directory, partages réseau mal configurés, GPO contenant des mots de passe, et autres vulnérabilités typiques des infrastructures corporatives. Cette approche répondait à une critique importante : les CTF traditionnels développaient des compétences sur des challenges artificiels, tandis que les vrais pentesters doivent attaquer des réseaux d'entreprise réels. La track Windows a forcé les participants à développer des compétences directement applicables au Red Teaming et aux tests d'intrusion internes. Évolution technologique et impact de l'IA La discussion aborde l'évolution technologique du domaine. Martin observe que la sécurité par défaut s'est considérablement améliorée depuis les années 2010, rendant les vulnérabilités basiques moins fréquentes. L'arrivée de l'intelligence artificielle transforme également le paysage professionnel, mais plutôt comme un assistant qu'un remplaçant pour les pentesteurs. L'IA automatise certains aspects du travail de sécurité, notamment dans les outils de défense comme Sentinel pour l'analyse de logs. Cependant, Martin et l'animateur s'accordent sur le fait que l'IA reste un multiplicateur de force nécessitant une direction humaine, particulièrement en Red Team et pentest. Expérimentations mémorables Le podcast évoque plusieurs expérimentations marquantes, notamment les CTF avec des maquettes physiques comme le barrage hydroélectrique de 2013, précurseur des préoccupations actuelles sur la sécurité IoT et OT. Ces innovations visuelles permettaient aux non-participants de comprendre concrètement ce qu'était le hacking. L'expérience la plus mémorable reste les éditions “taupes” : des CTF 12 vs 12 ou 20 vs 20 où certains participants étaient secrètement des espions pour l'équipe adverse, simulant l'espionnage industriel. Ces expérimentations, bien que créatrices de “drama”, démontraient l'importance de prendre des risques calculés pour innover. Communauté et networking professionnel Un aspect crucial souligné est la valeur du réseau professionnel créé par ces événements. La communauté cybersécurité québécoise, bien que pas nécessairement composée d'amis proches, forme un réseau où chacun connaît les autres et peut interagir facilement. Cette connectivité s'avère particulièrement précieuse lors des transitions de carrière ou des périodes de recherche d'emploi. Cette dimension communautaire devient encore plus importante dans le contexte économique actuel, où les restrictions budgétaires entraînent des licenciements même dans le secteur technologique traditionnellement stable. Gestion des risques et culture d'apprentissage La conversation aborde la culture du risque et de l'erreur dans la communauté. Martin prône une approche permettant l'expérimentation et l'erreur, créant un “safe space” pour les bénévoles. Il partage un exemple récent où un bénévole a rencontré des difficultés opérationnelles, et comment son expérience lui a permis d'accompagner cette personne pour désamorcer le stress et trouver une solution. Cette philosophie s'oppose à l'élitisme parfois présent dans la communauté cybersécurité. Les deux interlocuteurs s'accordent sur l'importance de permettre aux nouveaux arrivants de faire des erreurs et d'apprendre, condition essentielle pour éviter la stagnation communautaire et favoriser l'inclusion. Réflexions sur l'humilité et l'évolution Le podcast se termine sur une note d'humilité, évoquant comment Olivier (probablement le président sortant de NorthSec) a publiquement reconnu avoir peut-être poussé trop fort ses équipes de bénévoles vers la perfection. Cette reconnaissance publique illustre la maturité croissante de la communauté et l'importance de l'équilibre entre excellence et bienveillance. Martin partage également ses propres “blessures de guerre” professionnelles, ces erreurs passées qui, bien que parfois encore douloureuses, constituent un apprentissage précieux qu'il souhaite transmettre aux générations suivantes. Conclusion Ce podcast offre un regard privilégié sur l'évolution de la cybersécurité québécoise, montrant comment l'innovation, la prise de risques calculés et la construction communautaire ont façonné l'écosystème actuel. Il souligne l'importance de maintenir un équilibre entre excellence technique et bienveillance humaine, tout en continuant à expérimenter pour faire évoluer le domaine. L'expérience de Martin Dubé illustre parfaitement comment l'implication bénévole peut catalyser une carrière professionnelle tout en contribuant significativement au développement d'une communauté technique dynamique et inclusive. Collaborateurs Nicolas-Loïc Fortin Martin Dubé Crédits Montage par Intrasecure inc Locaux réels par Northsec

Recently we've been looking at the future of Dublin's O'Connell Street, including the Government approving plans to redevelop the GPO for mixed-use. Now Aontú are planning a protest next week against plans to turn the GPO into so-called “cheap, tawdry commercial centre”. Shane asked Peadar Toibin, Aontú Leader and TD for Meath West why he is against the plans.

Anton hosts a debate between Pearse Doherty, Sinn Féin's Finance Spokesperson, and Fine Gael TD for Dublin Bay South, James Geoghegan over the government's controvsersial plans to redevelop the GPO in Dublin city centre.Listen here.

Recently we've been looking at the future of Dublin's O'Connell Street, including the Government approving plans to redevelop the GPO for mixed-use. Now Aontú are planning a protest next week against plans to turn the GPO into so-called “cheap, tawdry commercial centre”. Shane asked Peadar Toibin, Aontú Leader and TD for Meath West why he is against the plans.

Health systems eligible for 340B savings must strike a balance by staying compliant with purchasing rules while also maximizing the amount of eligible savings they can obtain to invest in patient care. Angela Campitelli, the director of the pharmacy 340B program at MetroHealth System in Cleveland, explains how a hospital system such as hers implements a purchasing strategy that achieves that balance.Following rules for 340B purchasesDisproportionate share (DSH) hospitals, children's hospitals, and cancer hospitals are subject to a group purchasing organization (GPO) prohibition that bars them from buying covered outpatient drugs on GPO accounts. That requires maintaining a purchasing system that involves buying drugs at wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) for neutral inventory and then replenishing at 340B, WAC, or GPO pricing depending on how the drug is used.How the cycle can break downPurchasing drugs outside of the outlined processes could cause violations of the GPO prohibition or other 340B rules, which could lead to sanctions that might include losing eligibility for 340B. That is why health systems such as MetroHealth use staff education, regular auditing, and other safeguards to ensure they are purchasing and replenishing drugs on the correct accounts.Investments in the strategyCampitelli recommends 340B hospital teams bring their senior leadership on board to invest in auditing and other resources to ensure a strong purchasing strategy. Such investments will help avoid potential rule violations while ensuring that hospitals are not walking away from 340B savings to which they are entitled.Resources340B Health Appeals Rebate Ruling; Federal Court Agrees to Fast-Track Drugmaker Appeals

Plans approved by the government to redevelop the GPO into a mixed use precinct, with retail components, offices, and a post office has received criticism from Sinn Féin. We were joined by Sinn Féin's Louise O'Reilly and Fine Gael's James Geoghegan to discuss the matter.

A muslim socialist just won the democratic primary for the New York mayoral race against all the odds and against all the establishment money plus the Irish government want to turn the holy site of the GPO in Dublin into apartments.

Architect and conservationist, Roisin Murphy, and UCD history professor, Conor Mulvagh join The Hard Shoulder to discuss why so many of Ireland's heritage buildings are deteriorating.This comes after a viscious row erupted in the Dáil between Simon Harris and Sinn Féin on plans to redevelop the GPO.Listen here to hear if these plans will be positive, or yet another failure in the state acknowledging the past and present.

Government today launched a new agency tasked with revitalising Dublin City Centre. Its targets include redeveloping the GPO, regenerating social housing, converting derelict sites, and creating a new 'Cultural Quarter'. Sean Canney, Minister of State in the Department of Transport was part of the launch of this 10-year plan today.

The GPO on O'Connell Street could be turned into a national museum to regenerate what is seen as ‘the troubled part' of the capital, according to a report from the Dublin City Taskforce. All to talk about with Richard Guiney, CEO of Dublin Town.

The Dublin City Taskforce has been given the go-ahead by government in a bid to clean up the capital.A number of measures are set to be introduced over a 10-year plan. These include revitalising O'Connell Street, turning the GPO into a cultural destination and bringing derelict buildings back into use.Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie has been following the developments today and has spoken with those who are working, living and visiting Dublin.

New proposals going to cabinet this week suggest an entire revamp of the GPO complex.According to early plans, the site would house a major museum, with room for arts events, exhibitions, office spaces, and even some retail, making it a vibrant, mixed-use destination.Is this what we need to fix O'Connell Street?Andrea is joined by listeners to discuss.

The GPO on O'Connell Street could be turned into a national museum to regenerate what is seen as ‘the troubled part' of the capital, according to a report from the Dublin City Taskforce. All to talk about with Richard Guiney, CEO of Dublin Town.

Today we're going back to a time when the greatest show on earth came to Ireland. It was July 1972, and against all odds — and with the help of a strongman named Butty Sugrue — Muhammad Ali touched down in Dublin to fight Al ‘Blue' Lewis at Croke Park.It was a week like no other: Ali jogging through Wicklow, dropping into pubs, charming street cleaners, even getting a crash course in Irish history outside the GPO. Ireland was spellbound.Journalist and author Dave Hannigan joins me today to talk about his newly updated and re-released book The Big Fight, which tells the inside story of that glorious mayhem — and how one of the most famous athletes in history left a mark on the Irish psyche that's never faded. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The most recent changes to Social Security have left many Americans with questions—and for good reason. A landmark bipartisan bill has repealed the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), placing more money into the pockets of retirees across the country. But what do these changes really mean for retirees? In this episode, SHP Financial's co-founder Matthew Peck is joined by Chase Reardon to unpack the impact of these legislative changes. Chase has helped hundreds of clients navigate the complexities of Social Security—and today, he's breaking down the WEP and GPO repeal, who it affects, and what actions (if any) need to be taken. In this conversation, you'll learn how repealing the WEP and GPO affects both individual and spousal benefits, who may now be eligible for payments when they were previously denied, and what to do if you suspect you're impacted. They'll also touch on the broader retirement income strategy, including the pros and cons of working past retirement age, and how Social Security fits into your withdrawal plan. In this podcast interview, you'll learn: What the WEP and GPO provisions were and why they were repealed in 2025. Who benefits from the repeal and how payments are being issued. What actions spouses may need to take to receive additional benefits. Why the timing of your Social Security claim can significantly impact your income. How to use breakeven analysis to make a confident, data-backed filing decision. Want the Full Show Notes? To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast Connect With Us on Social Facebook LinkedIn YouTube

May 2025 During World War Two, Bletchley Park collaborated with several external engineering institutions in developing the famous codebreaking machines, such as the Bombes and Colossus. One such institution was the Post Office Research Station at Dollis Hill in London. In 2022, the previously secret war diary of the Research Station were released online to the public by BT, the successor to GPO Telecommunications. In this episode we are joined by James Elder, an archivist from BT Group Archives, as well as our own Research Historian, Dr David Kenyon, to find out what information the diaries can reveal about this secret collaboration. Many thanks to Dr Ben Thomson for voicing extracts from the War Diary. Image: © Courtesy of BT Group Archives (TCB 473/P 5105) #BPark, #Bletchleypark, #WW2, #Enigma, #BT, #GPO,

Twenty-five years after co-founding Corporate United, the first indirect GPO in the United States, David McCarty points out an inconvenient truth: the very tools procurement once developed to leverage spend are no longer as effective in today's supplier-dominated landscape. In this episode of "Buy: The Way…To Purposeful Procurement," David joins co-hosts Philip Ideson and Rich Ham to discuss the evolution of Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs), from their early promises of dramatic savings (15-30% back in the early 2000s) to their current state, where GPOs are much more limited in their ability to determine and optimize spend.  With refreshing candor and a healthy dose of optimism about today's forward-thinking GPO leaders, David confirms what many procurement leaders have long suspected: most GPOs are less effective today than when they were founded, partly because they've become a kind of checkbox solution that gives procurement a "false sense of security" rather than a true route to optimized expense management.  For procurement leaders who are worried that their suppliers might be gaming the GPO system, David provides realistic guidance on how to select the right GPO partner (from looking at contract age and rebidding frequency to volume transparency and customization options). He also points out the key areas where GPOs can still deliver differentiated value, but only if they are leveraged appropriately and procurement puts the time and effort into measuring the value they expect to receive.  While there are still benefits to using this model, it's clear, says David, that in 2025, strategic procurement through GPOs requires a more discerning, purpose-driven approach than ever before. Links: David McCarty on LinkedIn Rich Ham on LinkedIn Learn more at FineTuneUs.com  

The GPO is one of the country's most significant historical buildings. A charity which helps Irish veterans wants it to be turned into a National Veterans Centre. The government has signalled its intention to reimagine the role for the building, but no decision has yet been taken on its future.

Few agencies have changed as much as what's now called the Government Publishing Office. It still has vestiges of the old Government Printing Office. Yet now its head is called director, and not the public printer, a reflection of just how much communications technology has changed. For an update, that director who's appeared several times here on the Federal Drive over the years joins me for his final appearance in my own tenure. We welcome GPO director Hugh Halpern.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

 Kathleen Lynn – a Rebel WomanI hope you all had an enjoyable Easter. Across the island and further afield commemorations were held at countless locations to remember those who fought in the 1916 Easter Rising and in all of the generations of the freedom struggle. The Belfast turnout was big and Pearse Doherty, who made an exceptional speech, was given a very warm welcome. I saw no mention of his remarks or those of other republican speakers on RTE, BBC or other broadcasters. So much for public service broadcasting! The story of Easter 1916 reverberates with many remarkable accounts of courage as a small band of Irish Republicans took on the largest Empire ever to have existed in human history. They include many women. Among these are Julia Grenan, Winifred Carney and Elizabeth O'Farrell who were in the GPO and in Moore St. when the decision to surrender was taken. Winifred Carney's statue now stands proudly in front of Belfast City Hall.  Finding their place in a new IrelandIn his Easter remarks at the Republican Plot in Milltown Cemetery Teachta Pearse Doherty referenced the fact that the “momentum for Irish Unity grows stronger every day…. it is fast becoming the defining political project of our generation.” Pearse also addressed the importance of preparing for unity and in doing so the imperative of engaging with the unionist section of our people. He said: “There are many issues for republicans and unionists to talk about. We need to address the genuine fears and concerns of unionists in a meaningful way.”That means examining what they mean when they say they are British. We must be willing he said; “to explore and be open to new ideas. We need to look at ways in which the unionist people can find their place in a new Ireland.”  A Barren Landscape of DeathThe Gaza Strip is one eighth the size of County Antrim and has a population three times larger. Imagine if Belfast north of the River Lagan and including Mallusk and Newtownabbey were levelled to the ground. No schools, no hospitals, no homes – just tents – no churches, no shops, no transport system, no sewage system. A barren levelled landscape of death. Gaza City has been under strict Israeli siege for seven weeks. No bread, no water, no fuel, no medicines have been allowed to enter the area. The people – the children – are starving.  And all the time the international community with a few honourable exceptions does nothing – is complicit in this genocide.All that FussA friend of mine in County Tyrone was taking her seven year old daughter to her local Gael Scoil when the child drew her attention to the road sign for Londonderry. Someone had drawn a line through the London bit.‘Why is that  like that Mammy?' She asked. So Mammy gave a children's explanation. ‘But they are both wrong' the child replied ‘It's not Londonderry or Derry. Its Doire.'And that dear readers is why there is all that fuss about Irish or bilingual signage. 

Today, Hamilton Morales, Senior ​VP and ​Social ​Security ​Strategist ​at FIG, is taking over as host to walk through some important Social Security changes taking place in 2025. He explains the newly signed Social Security Fairness Act, which eliminates the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). This change restores full Social Security benefits to millions of public sector workers who were previously penalized and even offers retroactive payments dating back to January 2024. He also covers important annual updates, including higher taxable wage bases, earnings limits for early retirees, and the new cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). Plus, he previews potential legislation that could eliminate taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security benefits altogether, while raising important questions about how to protect Social Security's long-term solvency.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode:

 Wear an Easter LillyI did not think Easter is almost upon us. It has crept up on me. For Irish republicans Easter holds a special significance. It is synonymous with the 1916 Easter Rising and the heroism over a century ago of those who rose up against the British Empire and declared for a Republic. It is also a time when we remember all of those women and men – over countless generations – who gave their lives in pursuit of Irish sovereignty and independence.In the course of my activism I have travelled widely. I have visited many countries. Time and again I have been struck by the determination of nations to honour the patriots and freedom fighters who gave meaning to their desire for freedom and self-determination.Across the world there are countless memorials to those who fought in wars against colonialism. National ceremonies of remembrance are held. Buildings or lands and even prisons associated with struggles for freedom are protected and used as aids to teach young people the value of citizenship and the importance of freedom and democracy.Across this island and beyond there are many such monuments to Irish patriots. Next Sunday tens of thousands of people in towns, villages and cities, at country crossroads and at lonely hillside graveyards across the country, will gather for commemorations. They will gather also in Britain, Australia, Canada, the USA and many other places.Most will wear an Easter Lily. This is a symbol of our enduring commitment to the ideals of 1916 and of the Proclamation of the Republic and is a mark of respect for all those, from every generation, who paid with their lives in the cause of Irish freedom.  Micheál Martin and Moore St.Micheál Martin visited 14-17 Moore St. last week. Number 16 is where the leaders of the Rising held their last meeting before their execution. Numbers 14-17 are the planned location for a National Monument to those who fought in the 1916 Easter Rising and who evacuated to that street as the GPO was in flames. Martin's visit comes 12 years after he called for the "protection and enhancement" of Moore Street. It comes 19 years after the Fianna Fáil government of Bertie Ahern designated 14-17 Moore St. as a National Monument. During that time the buildings lay derelict and have fallen into a dangerous state of disrepairNow almost two decades later Martin takes an interest, on the cusp of Easter, in a site that his government has starved of funding. Moreover, Martin has backed the plan by the London based developer Hammerson to obliterate the Moore St. Battlefield site, including historic buildings that are part of that period.The rumour was that he was to make a public statement about this. Representatives of the Moore Street Preservation Trust were there to respond, including the grandson of James Connolly, James Connolly Heron. James presented An Taoiseach with the Trusts plan for a 1916 historic and Cultural Quarter. This encompasses the preservation, restoration and management of the Moore Street Battlefield Area, as designated by the High Court in 2016 “the lands, buildings, streets and lanes within an area including Moore Street, Henry Place, O'Rahilly Parade and Moore Lane, in which the 1916 Rising Volunteers travelled after evacuating the GPO”.  Two different Voices on UnitySpeaking of Micheál Martin, the Fianna Fáil leader was interviewed for the Belfast Telegraph last week. I was disappointed but not surprised by his assertion that he wasn't even thinking of a ‘border poll'. When pushed about the constitutional future of Ireland in 50 years-time he couldn't even bring himself to utter the words ‘united Ireland.' In the 15 years he has been leader of Fianna Fáil Martin has engaged in a deliberate strategy of obfuscation when it comes to unity. His current excuse for not pursu

LevelBlue's latest Threat Trends Report pulls no punches: phishing, malware, and ransomware attacks are not just continuing—they're accelerating. In this episode of ITSPmagazine's Brand Story podcast, hosts Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli are joined by Kenneth Ng, a threat hunter and lead incident responder on LevelBlue's Managed Detection and Response (MDR) team, to unpack the findings and recommendations from the report.Phishing as a Service and the Surge in Email CompromisesOne of the most alarming trends highlighted by Kenneth is the widespread availability of Phishing-as-a-Service (PhaaS) kits, including names like RaccoonO365, Mamba 2FA, and Greatness. These kits allow attackers with little to no technical skill to launch sophisticated campaigns that bypass multi-factor authentication (MFA) by hijacking session tokens. With phishing attacks now leading to full enterprise compromises, often through seemingly innocuous Microsoft 365 access, the threat is more serious than ever.Malware Is Smarter, Simpler—and It's Spreading FastMalware, particularly fake browser updates and credential stealers like Lumma Stealer, is also seeing a rise in usage. Kenneth points out the troubling trend of malware campaigns that rely on basic user interactions—like copying and pasting text—leading to full compromise through PowerShell or command prompt access. Basic group policy configurations (like blocking script execution for non-admin users) are still underutilized defenses.Ransomware: Faster and More Automated Than EverThe speed of ransomware attacks has increased dramatically. Kenneth shares real-world examples where attackers go from initial access to full domain control in under an hour—sometimes in as little as ten minutes—thanks to automation, remote access tools, and credential harvesting. This rapid escalation leaves defenders with very little room to respond unless robust detection and prevention measures are in place ahead of time.Why This Report MattersRather than presenting raw data, LevelBlue focuses on actionable insights. Each major finding comes with recommendations that can be implemented regardless of company size or maturity level. The report is a resource not just for LevelBlue customers, but for any organization looking to strengthen its defenses.Be sure to check out the full conversation and grab the first edition of the Threat Trends Report ahead of LevelBlue's next release this August—and stay tuned for their updated Futures Report launching at RSA Conference on April 28.Learn more about LevelBlue: https://itspm.ag/levelblue266f6cNote: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.Guest: Kenneth Ng, threat hunter and lead incident responder on LevelBlue's Managed Detection and Response (MDR) team | On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngkencyber/ResourcesDownload the LevelBlue Threat Trends Report | Edition One: https://itspm.ag/levelbyqdpLearn more and catch more stories from LevelBlue: https://www.itspmagazine.com/directory/levelblueLearn more about ITSPmagazine Brand Story Podcasts: https://www.itspmagazine.com/purchase-programsNewsletter Archive: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/tune-into-the-latest-podcasts-7109347022809309184/Business Newsletter Signup: https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-business-updates-sign-upAre you interested in telling your story?https://www.itspmagazine.com/telling-your-story

With homeless figures reaching record highs – the latest statistics revealing that 15,286 individuals are homeless, including 4,603 children…Proposals to further regulate street food kitchens including soup runs have been hit with criticism from the charity sector.The Muslim Sisters of Éire do a weekly soup kitchen at the GPO every Friday evening, feeding up to 675 people – three times as many as they did pre-Covid...Lorraine O'Connor from the Muslim Sisters of Éire joins Seán to discuss.

Jim and Chris answer listener questions on Social Security records, GPO, QCD timing, annuity costs, and excess IRA contributions. (10:30) Georgette asks about fixing gaps in her Social Security record. (19:30) The guys discuss how a listener's spousal Social Security benefits work after the repeal of GPO. (28:30) George seeks clarification on the timing of […] The post Social Security records, GPO, QCD Timing, Annuity Costs, and Excess IRA Contributions: Q&A #2511 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.

How can small dental practices leverage big-business buying power?In this episode, we chat with Mike McCoy, the visionary behind Dental Collective, who helps independent practices save big on high-end dental products and services. Raised in a family immersed in the dental sales sector, Mike shares his personal journey and expansive experience working with industry giants like Komet USA and Align Technology. These roles unveiled the secrets of sales and pricing, laying the foundation for Dental Collective. The heart of the discussion reveals how McCoy's group purchasing organization (GPO) empowers smaller practices to enjoy the pricing benefits once reserved for larger dental service organizations (DSOs.) Mike demystifies the working process of GPOs and dismantles myths surrounding deal access in the dental market, advocating for a level playing field.The episode takes a deep dive into the economic advantages of joining Dental Collective. Mike explains how engaging with a GPO is not just about saving on supplies but also capitalizing on extensive resources like marketing, IT, and insurance negotiations. He paints a vivid picture of practices pocketing considerable savings on expenses like credit card merchant fees and third-party financing, thanks to skillful negotiation and streamlined processes. As Mike shares compelling case studies, he invites dentists to take a proactive stance in their GPO membership to maximize gains.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How Mike's journey and industry acumen shaped Dental Collective.The role and benefits of a group purchasing organization in modern dentistry.Common misconceptions about dental deal accessibility and pricing structures.The financial impact of GPO memberships on overhead costs.Strategies for leveraging GPO services beyond traditional supply discounts.Real-life examples demonstrating significant cost savings through Dental Collective.The importance of active engagement in maximizing GPO benefits.The broad spectrum of resources available to Dental Collective members.Join us for an enlightening discussion on transforming your dental practice's financial health!‍‍Sponsors:‍CareStack: Modern, Secure, Cloud-Based Dental Software for Growing Your Practice! With state-of-the-art features including Online Appointments, Integrated Payments, Text Reminders and more. Click the link here for a special offer: thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/carestack‍Guest: Mike McCoyBusiness Name: Dental CollectiveCheck out Mike's Media:‍Website: Dental Collective | Your Go To Partner for Savings on Dental Supplies(Use coupon code DCTRIAL1 at checkout for a 1-month trial of Dental Collective. You can cancel at anytime if you don't find it to be a good fit for your practice.)Email: dcsales@dental-collective.comPhone: 781-701-6707Instagram: instagram.com/dentalcollectivedpoLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaelrmccoy-100419Book a Consultation: calendly.com/dcsales-2fs/30minVendor Partners: Partner Vendors | Start Saving Money Today with Dental Collective‍Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!‍Other Mentions and Links:‍Terms:GPO - Group Purchasing Organization‍Businesses/Brands:Komet USAAlign TechnologyInvisalignBioclearBrasseler USAPattersonBencoCostcoDental CityApexToothioCherryUltradentKettenbach USAUptime Services‍Sports Teams:New York Yankees‍Products:3M Filtek Composite‍Host: Michael Arias‍Website: The Dental Marketer Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Please don't forget to share with us on Instagram when you are listening to the podcast AND if you are really wanting to show us love, then please leave a 5 star review on iTunes! [Click here to leave a review on iTunes]‍p.s. Some links are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Please understand that we have experience with these products/companies, and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions we make if you decide to buy something. Please do not spend any money unless you feel you need them or that they will help you with your goals.‍

Brian Skrobonja breaks down the repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO).  He covers how retirees can strategically use their lump sum to create long-term financial stability, the impact of the repeal on spousal and survivor benefits, and the broader financial strain on the Social Security system.  Tune in to hear essential insights into how to adapt your financial strategy and take full advantage of this game-changing reform. Brian starts by explaining why the repeal of the WEP and the GPO is a big deal for retirees. A good example of how this repeal affects retirees is higher Social Security benefits--retirees can now reduce reliance on personal savings and investment withdrawals. Brian talks about the impact on spousal and survivor benefits. The repeal eliminates the harsh reductions that often left surviving spouses with little to no income. Brian explains why retirees need a strategy for their lump sum payments. Instead of spending it impulsively, consider reinvesting in assets that create long-term financial security. How the repeal changes retirement planning for government workers. Formerly penalized for having a pension, they can now receive full Social Security benefits without reductions. Brian highlights why this repeal adds financial strain to the Social Security system. The Congressional Budget Office projects billions in additional costs, worsening the program's long-term stability. Brian reveals the biggest challenge Social Security now faces. Recalculating benefits for millions of retirees while managing retroactive payments creates an administrative nightmare for the Social Security office. Brian highlights the fairness issue with this change. Government employees with brief private-sector work history may now receive benefits exceeding lifelong private-sector workers with similar earnings. How younger workers may bear the financial burden of this repeal. Without a payroll tax increase, the long-term cost shifts onto the next generation of retirees. Understand how to make the most of this new opportunity. With higher benefits, retirees should rethink their tax strategy, pension withdrawals, and investment plans. Brian shares the best way to maximize Social Security benefits. Coordinating Social Security payments with pension income, investment distributions, and annuities can optimize cash flow for you in retirement. Brian explains the tax implications of higher Social Security benefits and how increased payments could push retirees into higher tax brackets. According to Brian, this change creates new financial planning opportunities. Retirees can explore strategies like Roth conversions or delaying withdrawals to reduce tax burdens. Brian explains how ignoring these changes could cost you and potentially derail your retirement. The repeal is a game changer and failing to adapt your financial strategy means missing out on valuable benefits or paying more in taxes.      Mentioned in this episode: BrianSkrobonja.com SkrobonjaFinancial.com SkrobonjaWealth.com BUILDbanking.com Common Sense Financial Podcast on YouTube  Common Sense Financial Podcast on Spotify     References for this episode: https://www.nea.org/resource-library/faq-social-security-fairness-act#:~:text=Impacted%20individuals%20will%20see%20an%20estimated%20average%20increase%20of%20%24360,vary%20based%20on%20employment%20history https://hayes.house.gov/2025/1/social-security-fairness-act-legislation-co-sponsored-by-hayes-signed-into-law-by-president-biden#:~:text=Additionally%2C%20the%20CBO%20estimates%20that,for%20380%2C000%20impacted%20spouses%20and https://www.cbpp.org/research/social-security/repealing-social-securitys-wep-and-gpo-rules-would-be-misguided https://www.cbo.gov/publication/60392#:~:text=In%20CBO's%20projections%2C%20the%20balance,the%20balance%20of%20the%20Disability     Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. (MAS), Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals through Skrobonja Wealth Management (SWM), a registered investment advisor. Tax services offered only through Skrobonja Tax Consulting. MAS does not offer Build Banking or tax advice. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Tax Consulting, and Build Banking are not affiliated with MAS. Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC is a registered investment adviser. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. The firm is a registered investment adviser with the state of Missouri, and may only transact business with residents of those states, or residents of other states where otherwise legally permitted subject to exemption or exclusion from registration requirements. Registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any state securities authority does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Our firm is not endorsed by or affiliated with any government agency.

The complexity of Social Security calculations can cause some confusion around when someone eligible should file and claim their benefit. There are a lot of variables to consider and acronyms to decipher that can make Social Security feel like a confusing hedge maze. Let's cut through some of the noise and clarify some of the most pressing questions around Social Security benefits and what questions you need to consider to determine what's best for you and your family. Social Security has many layers, and the concept of eligibility can be pretty complex. It's not always clear when and how someone should begin taking their benefits because being eligible doesn't necessarily mean you should turn that benefit on. Social Security benefits can be turned on as early as age 62. Each year the benefit is delayed, you receive what is called a delayed retirement credit or DRC. These DRCs guarantee an automatic 8% increase in your Social Security benefit every year you delay up to age 70. There is also your full retirement age. This is the age when you are eligible to receive the full benefit without any offset for having earned income. Earned income being income from employment, which is different from income received from investments, pensions or annuities. For those born in 1960, or later, your FRA is age 67. Benefits are calculated by the Social Security Administration by taking 35 years of earnings that are indexed for inflation. Any years you didn't work are counted as a zero in your average earnings calculation. These annual amounts are then totaled and divided by four and 20 months to arrive at the monthly figure known as your average indexed monthly earning. This number is different from your benefit amount. The SSA then applies a formula to that number which determines your primary insurance amount or PIA and this is your monthly Social Security benefit. If you choose to take your benefit before your FRA while employed, there's an offset that can significantly reduce the benefit if your income exceeds $21,240 in 2023. This reduction is $1 for every $2 of earned income over the limit. In the year you reach your FRA, the limit increases to $56,520 in 2023, with a benefit reduction of $1 for every $3 of earned income over the limit. After you've reached your FRA there's no earning limits and you receive the full benefit with no income offsets. Provisional income comes into play after your benefits are activated. Your provisional income is calculated by taking your adjusted gross income plus half of your Social Security benefit. If that total is less than $25,000, your Social Security benefit is not subject to federal tax. If it is  above 25,000, but below 34,000, 50% of the benefit is taxed, and if it's above 34,000, 85% of the benefit is taxed. If you're a government employee, there's something called a Windfall Elimination Provision, or WEP. And there's also a Government Pension Offset, or GPO. There are three common conversations we have with clients when it comes to Social Security. The first thing is determining the breakeven point. One method for deciding when to take Social Security benefits involves calculating the breakeven point, this is the future point in time when the value of one option equals that of another. For example, if your FRA benefit is $2,000 a month, and $1,400 at age 62, there's a $600 a month difference. When compared to waiting the five years and taking the full amount, the breakeven point would be 11.6 years. Something else to keep in mind is that by taking a benefit early, you reduce the amount of spousal benefit made available since the benefit in and of itself has been reduced and this could be an important consideration. The second consideration relates to one's health and longevity. If you don't expect to live past that breakeven point, taking the benefit early might make more sense. From this perspective, it could be a win-win situation if they start receiving benefits early and they live longer than expected because the payments continue. We can't know our lifespan for certain, but if you're in poor health, taking benefits early might be a reasonable option. The third consideration involves a person's retirement income requirement. Many clients we work with see Social Security simply as a piece of the retirement income strategy, and aren't necessarily concerned with breakeven points as much as they are with maximizing their assets and the resources. Many clients opt to turn their Social Security benefits on instead of tapping into their assets in order to maintain growth. Using assets to generate income in retirement also comes with variables that are hard to predict, like the conditions of the stock market and economic policy. Social Security, in comparison, is stable and easy to predict. Figuring out your retirement income requires careful planning, which is why it's crucial to work with a professional that understands Social Security and its role in your retirement plan.     Mentioned in this episode: BrianSkrobonja.com Common Sense Financial Podcast on YouTube  Common Sense Financial Podcast on Spotify BrianSkrobonja.com/Resources - Free Resources To Help You Protect Your Financial Future Common Sense: YOUR Guide to Making Smart Choices with YOUR Money by Brian Skrobonja SSA.gov   References for this episode: SSA.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/agereduction.html SSA.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/delayret.html SSA.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/agereduction.html SSA.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/whileworking.html SSA.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/whileworking.html SSA.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/taxes.html   Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. (MAS), Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered  individuals through Skrobonja Wealth Management (SWM), a registered investment advisor. Tax services offered only through Skrobonja Tax Consulting. MAS does not offer Build Banking or tax advice. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Tax Consulting, and Build Banking are not affiliated with MAS. The firm is a registered investment adviser with the state of Missouri, and may only transact business with residents of those states, or residents of other states where otherwise legally permitted subject to exemption or exclusion from registration requirements. Registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any state securities authority does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. This website is solely for informational purposes. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be  rendered by Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC unless a client service agreement is in  place. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC provides links for your convenience to websites produced by other providers of industry related material. Accessing websites through links directs you  away from our website. Users who gain access to third party websites may be subject to the copyright and other restrictions on use imposed by those providers and assume responsibility and risk from use of those websites. Any references to protection, safety or  lifetime income, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the  issuing carrier. This is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole  basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual's situation. Our firm is not permitted to offer, and no  statement made on this site shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency. The information and  opinions contained here in provided by third parties have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed by our firm. Any media logos and/or trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners and no endorsement by those owners of Brian Skrobonja is stated or implied. The awards, accolades and appearances are not representative of any one client's experience and is not indicative of future performance. Each of these awards have set criteria for their nominations and eligibility requirements. “Best Wealth Managers” and “Future 50 Company” are annual surveys conducted by Small Business Monthly. The winner is chosen by an online vote of the general public and no specific criteria is utilized to determine the winner other than number of votes. Some voters may not be clients of Brian Skrobonja and Skrobonja Financial Group. These awards are not representative of any one client's experience and is not indicative of future performance.

Barbara O'Neill, CFP®, AFC® and Scott Dauenhauer CFP® break down the recently passed Social Security Fairness Act and what it means for some educators. They cover why the WEP and GPO were first put in place and what it's repeal means for: Those currently collecting Social Security benefits Those new eligible to collect Social Security benefits Those lacking enough credits to qualify for Social Security benefits At the conclusion of the recording of this episode Scott got a call from a family member who he had helped apply for this new benefit who shared the good news that she had just received a Social Security check for more than $9,000.  The Social Security Fairness Act: A Holiday Season Miracle Social Security Administration Social Security Fairness Act 403(b) Plans and Social Security  Guardians of SS FBG WEP Chart note: Link mentioned in pod mysteriously stopped working the day after recording. A web search for new link is recommended.  Opinion: Social Security Fairness Act will be tricky to implement Learned by Being Burned - Short pod series about how teachers got burned then got wise to the 403(b) Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise.org Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). 

Join special guest Kurt Czarnowski (Czarnowski Consulting) for a deep dive on the impact of the Social Security Fairness Act.  Some 2,000,000 current Social Security recipients are impacted by this legislation, not to mention those who previously thought they were ineligible under Government Pension Offset (GPO).  This legislation does away with GPO and Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP).  Advisors will want to learn more about these changes and which of their clients may be impacted.  Always entertaining and a wealth of information, join Kurt and host Chris Boyd for timely episode of the Wicked Pissah Podcast.    Kurt.Czarnowski@gmail.com www.czarnowskiconsulting.com Cell: 774-571-3256   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurt-czarnowski-20598729/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-christopher-boyd-b932169/   https://www.fpanewengland.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-planning-association-of-massachusetts/posts/?feedView=all   https://www.financialplanningassociation.org/  

Show Notes: Jim Ettamarna, a renowned expert in commercial excellence, defines it as incorporating commercial efficacy and efficiency. He believes that there are two key branches to drive down in this area, and it holds tremendous potential for clients and organizations. Jim's framework for commercial excellence is value creation, which involves understanding market demand, go-to- market models, market growth, and demand trends with a focus on each specific industry. A Six Sigma Lean Framework Jim uses a lean framework, starting with Six Sigma, to standardize the right work and ensure associates and employees are conducting the right activities and behaviors. He also emphasizes the importance of systems in psychology in commercial results, as it helps design standardized systems for onboarding talent, enhancing team engagement, and engaging with customers. In sales, motivation is crucial, and the human element of having a team is essential. However, dealing with complex buying processes can be challenging, so it is essential to tune processes and approaches to the specific needs of the customers. A Go-to-market Model The go-to-market model is a linkage between strategy and execution and commercial excellence. It should be tuned for the company's strategy and the strategic context. For example, a $300 million middle market private equity-backed company serving the Durable Medical Equipment market that sold to 5,000 independent organizations and specialty retailers. The company had to strategically think through market growth, accounts to capture, and the buying cycle for customers. To drive efficiency and effectiveness, the company had a set of building blocks, including an online component, independent sales reps, an inside sales team, and specialty sales people. The strategy piece involved determining what would drive value, growth, renewals, base volumes, and pricing. The go-to-market model was designed around these building blocks, and commercial excellence was driven by optimizing these aspects. Components of Commercial Excellence Jim discusses the importance of breaking down commercial excellence into various components, including channels, sales operations, content, and management systems. He emphasizes the need for segmentation at the top level to understand what will drive value and optimize the go-to-market model for the business. Within this model, he suggests ways to optimize each element, such as sales enablement, which includes training, scripts, and engagement strategies. He also emphasizes the importance of benchmarking and understanding the nuances of sales teams. He shares an example of a furniture retailer where he worked with 2500 full-time employees and 1000 part-time employees. The performance of the company was analyzed using Pareto curves, but some outliers were more successful than averages. To replicate these outliers, he spent time in the field with the best sellers and identified their backgrounds and profiles. He also highlights the importance of identifying B+ and A minus players and setting them as standards. The A plus players are often unique individuals that can be difficult to replicate, but they can still learn from them. Segmentation is crucial in understanding customer nuances. Value Mapping and Needs-based Segmentation In the past, value mapping and needs-based segmentation were crucial for designing sales teams and engaging with customers. This was particularly important when selling software into hospital systems, where hospitals may make localized decisions or have a system or GPO that drives these decisions. The CIO or clinical or nursing professional may specify the solution, and the CIO and finance will negotiate it. Jim cites a case where a big client involved segmenting the market and designing selling approaches based on how customers operated and how they bought. This involved investing in customer success research, conducting field interviews, and conducting surveys to understand their usage of the product. The consultant rolled out five archetypes and profiles for four segments, which were then rolled into product development and product teams. Different teams focused on different segments, such as geographic, size, SMB, or enterprise, and focusing on needs-based and purchasing behavior-based segmentation. The go-to-market model was designed around these archetypes, with territory design considering geographic, size, SMB, or enterprise boundaries. There is no right or wrong answer to this, but it is essential to consider these factors when designing the go-to-market model. This approach helps to understand the value in use and what drives value for customers. Diagnostics and Metrics The conversation turns to commercial excellence in organizations, particularly in B2B industrial or SaaS sectors. Jim emphasizes the need for a diagnostic assessment to understand opportunities and challenges. A diagnostic should focus on input and output metrics, such as sales reps' success, territories, and numbers. He suggests that data from sales operations and rev ops can be used to conduct quick diagnostics. Additionally, examining spreads and distributions to identify right spots and dark spots, which are indicators of opportunities and challenges. For example, he could work with a labeling client and identify bright spots where individuals were selling unique markets and promoting innovative products. These best practices could be disseminated among the team. A diagnostic should involve analytics, cost, interviews with sales people, and customer visits to gather customer feedback. The goal is to identify three to five things that can be done to achieve commercial excellence. Jim also offers tips on how to work with the sales department.  The Role of a Sales Playbook in Commercial Excellence Jim talks about the importance of rolling out a sales playbook and its role in commercial excellence. He shares an example of a software company that he helped develop a sales playbook for, which focused on making standard work and minimizing waste. The company had three different sales processes, and they trained employees on territory management, account management, and prospecting. They created a set of 10 difference makers based on actual activities performed by the best people, which were rolled out in a fun, gamified way to encourage adoption and recognition. Some of the key difference markers included prospecting, owning territory, and using Salesforce to drive compliance.  Metrics to Monitor in Sales Jim mentions the importance of having the right input and output metrics, such as the number of meaningful meetings and demonstrations per week, to ensure the right outbound results. By tracking these metrics, the sales team can make necessary adjustments to improve their performance and drive more profitable deals. To drive results in sales, Jim highlights metrics such as deal size, velocity, win rates, attachment, cross, sell, and upsell. He also emphasizes the importance of driving customer success and retention. He mentions that, in one case, key initiatives were displayed at the office, allowing for a competitive dynamic. The metrics were then distilled down to the board, with some metrics for frontline commercial team members and others for the board pack. The goal was to turn the dial on sales enablement, resulting in better win rates and accelerated funnel velocity. Jim also highlights the importance of gamification, making it fun, and rewards to encourage employees to work harder and drive competitive juices.  Timestamps: 01:32: Value Creation Framework  04:18: Go-to-Market Model  07:24: Tangible Elements of Commercial Excellence  11:10: Segmentation and Customer Nuances 14:18: Practical Segmentation Approach  18:18: Diagnostic Approach to Commercial Excellence  24:04: Sales Playbook and Metrics  29:50: Customer Success and Competitive Dynamics Links: Company website: https://www.suttongrowth.com/ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/jimettamarna   Unleashed is produced by Umbrex, which has a mission of connecting independent management consultants with one another, creating opportunities for members to meet, build relationships, and share lessons learned. Learn more at www.umbrex.com.  

Big changes are on the horizon for retirees impacted by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). The Social Security Fairness Act, signed into law on January 5, 2025, is expected to increase benefits for millions of retirees while introducing new challenges for the Social Security system. In todays podcast, I will break down what this means for you and how to adapt your retirement strategy to these changes. Plus, be sure to listen to the end to learn about our new updates to the Retirement Budget Calculator that help you stress-test your Social Security strategy. To find links and resources mentioned in today's podcast, visit SoundRetirementPlanning.com and click on episode #443.. The Retirement Budget Calculator is an intuitive tool that promises ease and accuracy. However, like any tool, user error could potentially lead to costly mistakes. To avoid this, let the experienced advisors at Parker Financial LLC guide you. When you hire our team, we offer a comprehensive review of your current investments, taxes, and the data in the Retirement Budget Calculator. We will ensure your plan's completeness and accuracy, helping you create an investment strategy, assist with tax planning, and monitor your plan to maximize your retirement benefits. At Parker Financial we offer a well-crafted retirement investment strategy, deeply rooted in academic data and financial science which can be the key to a prosperous retirement. Don't leave your future to chance. Take the first step towards a sound retirement. Schedule your complimentary discovery session now by visiting Parker-Financial.net let us help you make the most of your retirement years.      

Listener Q&A where Andy talks about: What it means between an advisor who calls themself a financial planner vs wealth manager vs any other label they choose to use ( 10:24 )My thoughts on the recently repealed Windfall Elimination Provision ("WEP") and Government Pension Offset ("GPO") parts of Social Security ( 20:35 )A follow up to a previously discussed Q&A topic about how much umbrella insurance to purchase ( 31:18 )How income is taxed to a recently deceased person vs their heirs or their estate ( 37:08 )How best to gift money to grandchildren to get them started with saving and investing ( 42:10 )Understanding a bond or bond fund's "duration" and how to use it measure the bond or bond fund's interest rate price change risk. And what it means to have a recommended "holding period" for a bond fund ( 46:45 )To send Andy questions to be addressed on future Q&A episodes, email andy@andypanko.comMy company newsletter - Retirement Planning InsightsFacebook group - Retirement Planning Education (formerly Taxes in Retirement)YouTube channel - Retirement Planning Education (formerly Retirement Planning Demystified)Retirement Planning Education website - www.RetirementPlanningEducation.com

The Social Security Fairness Act, signed into law on January 5 by former President Joe Biden, repeals the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), which previously reduced Social Security benefits for individuals with non-covered pensions, such as teachers, firefighters, and postal workers. This change significantly increases benefits for affected individuals, in some cases by over $1,000 per month, and applies retroactively to the end of 2023.While the law addresses long-standing concerns about fairness, it also accelerates the depletion of Social Security funds, already projected to face insolvency by the 2030s. This $190 billion expense over the next decade may force future changes, such as tax increases, higher retirement ages, or adjustments to the system. For those impacted by WEP or GPO, the law offers immediate financial relief but highlights the need for broader, sustainable reform to preserve Social Security for all beneficiaries.Questions answered:How does the Social Security Fairness Act impact individuals with non-covered pensions like teachers, firefighters, and postal workers?What are the potential long-term consequences of the Social Security Fairness Act on the Social Security fund's sustainability?  Submit your request to join James:On the Ready For Retirement podcast: Apply HereOn a Retirement Makeover episode: Apply HereTimestamps:0:00 - SS Fairness Act -- ex. Maria2:46 - Bend points4:49 - Back to Maria's situation5:54 - Pros and cons7:38 - Bill magnifies SS problemsCreate Your Custom Strategy ⬇️ Get Started Here.

Mike provides insight into Foodbuy's $32 billion in purchasing power and its mission to level the playing field for independent and multi-unit operators alike. He highlights how Foodbuy's technology-driven approach helps operators unlock cost savings, streamline purchasing, and improve their bottom line.Key Takeaways:• Customized Solutions: Foodbuy's programs are opt-in, allowing businesses to tailor solutions to their unique needs.• Tech-Driven Savings: From auditing line items to catching price discrepancies, Foodbuy's platform ensures operators get the best deals while maintaining transparency.• Supporting Independents: Mike emphasizes Foodbuy's commitment to helping small operators achieve big buying power, likening it to a GPO that acts as a PEO for purchasing.• Rebates Made Simple: Foodbuy ensures rebates are earned and applied seamlessly, eliminating the frustration of chasing payments.Hot Takes: From the value of a free membership to the scalability of Foodbuy's solutions, Mike showcases how the organization empowers operators to thrive in a margin-tight industry.

The Healthcare Revolution: Challenges and Innovations with Dutch RojasIn this episode, George hosts Dutch Rojas, a Senior Vice President of Direct Healthcare at Naomi Health, to discuss the transformative landscape of healthcare. Dutch shares his journey from an accounting student to a healthcare innovator advocating for private physicians and transparency. They delve into healthcare issues, such as market concentration, regulatory challenges, and unfair pricing structures. Dutch emphasizes the importance of competition and the role of physicians in improving the healthcare system. They also explore innovative models like physician-led practices and Direct Primary Care (DPC) to enhance care and reduce costs. The conversation touches on policy implications, the influence of large health systems, and potential solutions through collaboration and market-led changes. Dutch suggests building coalitions of independent physicians to negotiate better contracts and reduce expenses, ultimately aiming for a fairer and more efficient healthcare system.00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene00:10 Introducing Dutch Rojas01:07 Dutch Rojas' Journey into Healthcare03:44 Challenges in the Healthcare System05:33 Market Concentration and Regulation Issues17:53 The Role of PBMs and Insurance Companies27:54 Forming Coalitions for Independent Physicians31:30 Unite the Physicians: Overcoming Legal Barriers32:06 Innovative Organizational Structures in Healthcare32:53 Ownership and Revenue Generation for Doctors33:30 Understanding Payroll and Insurance Integration33:57 Explaining Key Acronyms: PEO, GPO, and MSO35:06 Legal Challenges and Costs in Healthcare36:01 Introducing Physicians Capital36:07 Negotiation Strategies with Healthcare Providers36:36 Flexibility in Healthcare Contracts38:01 Addressing Healthcare System Problems38:58 Competing Against Academic Health Systems39:52 Challenges in Primary Care and Solutions41:27 The Role of Innovation in Healthcare42:47 The Importance of Relationships in Medicine56:41 Direct Primary Care (DPC) and Its Impact01:00:49 The Need for Price Transparency in Healthcare01:02:58 Concluding Thoughts and Future DiscussionsSupport the show

This episode looks at whether you qualify or not for the $200 billion Social Security benefits approved by the U.S. Congress. Host David McKnight shares that, with the current status quo, the Social Security Trust Fund is on pace to go bust by 2033. If that were to happen, only about 83% of benefits would be paid out…  If signed into law by President Joe Biden, the Social Security Fairness Act would provide an additional $200 billion in Social Security benefits to nearly 2.8 million Americans over the next 10 years. The Social Security Fairness Act would eliminate two policies that have reduced benefits for public service employees: the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). The people most likely to be affected by the elimination of these two provisions are about 28% of state and local government employees who are covered by alternative retirement systems and permanent civilian federal employees hired prior to January 1, 1984. U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (Ohio) and Susan Collins (Maine), co-sponsors of the Social Security Fairness Act, believe that the WEP and GPO have historically penalized people for choosing to serve their communities by dramatically reducing Social Security benefits.  While David believes that Americans should get their due when it comes to their Social Security benefits, he wonders whether this is something that America can really afford… According to the Nonpartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, the passage of the bill in question will accelerate the insolvency of the Social Security Trust Fund by six months. David sees the Social Security Fairness Act and its repercussions on Americans as “yet another unfunded obligation on the balance sheet of the Federal Government.”     Mentioned in this episode: David's national bestselling book: The Guru Gap: How America's Financial Gurus Are Leading You Astray, and How to Get Back on Track DavidMcKnight.com DavidMcKnightBooks.com PowerOfZero.com (free video series) @mcknightandco on Twitter  @davidcmcknight on Instagram David McKnight on YouTube Get David's Tax-free Tool Kit at taxfreetoolkit.com Congressional Budget Office President Joe Biden U.S. Congress U.S. Senate Senator Sherrod Brown (Ohio) Senator Susan Collins (Maine) CBS News Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget

The Social Security Fairness Act was signed into law by President Joe Biden on Jan. 6 thanks to strong bipartisan support. The intent was to provide greater retirement security and “fairness” to people who have dedicated their careers to public service, with bill supporters saying the old law unfairly stripped many low-income government and public workers of the benefits they deserve.But did they get it wrong? Andrew G. Biggs, senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and a nationally recognized expert on retirement issues and Social Security policy, makes a compelling argument for why the Social Security Fairness Act essentially amounts to a $200 billion giveaway to people who neither need the benefits nor paid into the system to receive them.Key InsightsImpact of Social Security Fairness Act: The repeal of WEP and GPO provisions increases Social Security benefits for public sector employees but raises concerns about fairness and financial sustainability​.Public Sector Pension Dynamics: Many public employees benefit from generous pensions and may now receive additional Social Security benefits, leading to "double-dipping" concerns​.Fiscal Consequences: The $200 billion cost of the legislation accelerates the depletion of Social Security trust funds, threatening long-term sustainability​.

FUN HALF LINK HERE: https://youtube.com/live/qzCOCJJt2o4 It's News Day Tuesday! Sam and Emma speak with Alex Lawson, executive director of Social Security Works, to discuss President Biden signing the Social Security Fairness Act into law. First, Sam and Emma run through updates on the GOP's reconciliation fight, Trump's second certified election W, Merrick Garland's Jan 6th report, Fetterman's support for more right-wing legislation, Senate GOPers push for ICC sanctions, Virginia's special elections, CIA's surveillance of Latino activists, Rudy Giuliani's contempt of court, Guantanamo's prisoners, Zuckerberg's re-welcoming of misinformation back to Meta, and gender-affirming care data, before diving a little deeper into Big Tech's overwhelming capitulation to Donald Trump's regime, from Zuckerberg's Meta misinformation to Bezos' Washington Post censorship. Alex Lawson then joins, quickly running through the recent debates over social security – from the Trump-Musk push to cut it via the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to Biden's recent passage of the Social Security Fairness Act – before taking a major step back to the Reagan Administration as he walks through Reagan's sweeping WEP and GPO kneecaps to Social Security, serving to cut all benefits by 14% and completely carving teachers, police officers, and firefighters out of the system, respectively, and serving to bolster the rapid development of wealth inequality over the four decades since, helped all the while by the shift from defined-benefit pensions to defined-contribution 401ks. Jumping back to the modern day, Alex, Sam, and Emma unpack the attacks to be expected as Trump's DOGE takes over, from addressing supposed concerns about growing life expectancy – a development only affecting the wealthy – to attempts to make it more “profitable” by undercutting benefits rather than raising revenue, and tackling the unsurprising solution of simply lifting (or even eliminating) the income cap that prevents wealthy people from paying their fair share into the system. Wrapping up, they assess the overwhelming popularity of Social Security (outside of DC, of course), and what it will take to protect it. And in the Fun Half: Sam and Emma parse through Trump's outlandish territory claims – from the Gulf of Mexico to Greenland – and the concerning motives that could be behind them, before diving deep into the GOP's ongoing reconciliation infighting, as Larry Kudlow presses Ted Cruz over the decision to keep it as one massive bill. They also unpack Hannity's malaise over recent attacks on the wealthy, Musk's relationship with Argentina's poverty-pusher Javier Milei, and Tim Pool's recent freakout over jailed January 6th defendants, plus, your calls and IMs! Follow Alex and SSW on Twitter here: https://x.com/ssworks Find out more about Social Security Works here: https://socialsecurityworks.org/ See if your money is being used to fund climate chaos here!: https://bank.green/ Follow us on TikTok here!: https://www.tiktok.com/@majorityreportfm Check us out on Twitch here!: https://www.twitch.tv/themajorityreport Find our Rumble stream here!: https://rumble.com/user/majorityreport Check out our alt YouTube channel here!: https://www.youtube.com/majorityreportlive Gift a Majority Report subscription here: https://fans.fm/majority/gift Subscribe to the ESVN YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/esvnshow Subscribe to the AMQuickie newsletter here: https://am-quickie.ghost.io/ Join the Majority Report Discord! https://majoritydiscord.com/ Get all your MR merch at our store: https://shop.majorityreportradio.com/ Get the free Majority Report App!: https://majority.fm/app Go to https://JustCoffee.coop and use coupon code majority to get 10% off your purchase! 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The General Post Office on O'Connell Street is undoubtedly one of Ireland's most significant buildings; as the headquarters of the 1916 rising, the bustling epicenter of 20th century communication and even the point by which the distance to towns and cities across the country were measured. This year, the Dublin landmark faces a milestone of its own - with a new purpose for the building set to be revealed. So could a reimagined GPO help breathe life into the city centre and how do we preserve our history while developing a living, breathing city? Host: Dave Hanratty | Guest: Donal Fallon See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs interviews Dr. Lou Graham to explore how Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs) can help dental practices save money, reduce overhead, and improve efficiency. Dr. Graham shares how GPOs offer collective buying power to solo and group practices, providing significant cost savings on supplies, credit card processing, and benefits. Learn about the benefits of joining a GPO like Catapult Grow, and how technology and strategic partnerships can transform your practice. Tune in for expert insights that can elevate your practice's profitability and success! Listen now to discover how GPOs can take your practice to the next level!

With Jim attending an Ed Slott conference, Chris takes some time to answer a WEP and GPO question before offering listeners general information on Social Security changes for 2025 and a detailed walkthrough of the WEP and GPO provisions of Social Security. (6:30) George asks for more information on whether Social Security offsets are adjusted […] The post Social Security WEP and GPO Special: Q&A #2443 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.

So much of practice profitability comes from tracking supplies and overhead. Kiera pulls back the curtain on how practices can keep track of supplies, avoid shortages, and stay within budget. Episode resources: Reach out to Kiera Tune Into DAT's Monthly Webinar Practice Momentum Group Consulting Subscribe to The Dental A-Team podcast Become Dental A-Team Platinum! Review the podcast Transcript: Kiera Dent (00:00.59) Hello, Dental A Team listeners. This is Kiera and welcome to the podcast. I hope you guys, it's crazy to think I've been doing this podcast for so long and I still get new ideas and that's thanks to you guys. So just so you know, the podcast is built for team members and teams, doctors and owners by team members and practice owners to give you guys the best tips and tricks to be able to share from hundreds of practices across the nation and across the globe to give you the shortcuts to success and to give you a community so you don't feel like you have to do this alone.   I was at my, my gosh, I'm going to say the words on the podcast. You guys, you're going to find out how old I am. I went to my 20 year high school reunion. I kid you not. And I was terrified to go. none of my friends from high school that I hung out with in high school were going. So I was going kind of solo and, and by like none of my friends, did know people, but they weren't like the close friends that I'd hung out with all the time. None of them were going. And I was super stressed and I didn't know if I wanted to go. And I almost bailed   about 20 times. And then I decided, you can always just leave. Just go say hello. You've already paid. It's right by my parents' house. It's not far away. And it was interesting because there was a girl that we weren't necessarily close in high school. I knew of her. She knew of me. But it was fun because she built a business. I built a business. And we were talking because when you're business owners, know there's not a lot of people you can actually geek out with all the time and talk to them about business strengths and weaknesses   She said to me, said, know, Kiera I'd really love to get with you more often because I feel like as business owners, we need that community and we need people that are like us to help us know that we're going through it. And I just thought, I am so lucky because my dentists do have a community and the dentist I consult have a community and they don't have to do this alone. And they're like, I've literally been there, done that and done it successfully. And our team has been there, done that and done it successfully. And we're able to share with you all the tips and all the tricks and all the things.   So that way you don't have to go through the hard things. If I could find somebody who has grown a consulting company, which I did, that's who I hired as my coach. but really just like leaning in. And then what I decided to do is our dentists, we actually meet the first Tuesday of every month. call that think tank Tuesday for our one -on -one clients. And then our group mastermind, which is so freaking fun. It's a really, really, really, really awesome community that I'm loving. And they get.   Kiera Dent (02:21.448) way more access than they even do on one -on -one. But every single week they come together for Ask Consultants Everything. And then we also have a mastermind where they get to come together as well. And my biggest piece was I was thinking back to why did I join Tony Robbins? And I thought I joined it for Tony Robbins, but I realized I joined it for a community of people that push me, that I'm not the smartest one in the room, that people can help me run my business in ways that I don't even know because community is what we're all here for. And so for you guys,   to just think like how blessed are we to have this podcast community to be able to come and share from hundreds of practices and get best ideas and to really get out there. Because what I found is in today's world, we don't have to be alone unless we want to. We don't have to do this on our own unless we want to. And I will literally give you every single piece of knowledge that I have anywhere and everywhere to make sure that you succeed and that you've lived the life you want. My goal is to positively impact the world of dentistry in the greatest way possible.   Dentistry is my platform and life is my passion to give you guys the life that you deserve, to give you the team and the skills for doctors and teams to flourish. So today I really wanted to just go through a quick tactical for you about inventory management, which is not my typical podcast style. Normally I'm more about life, but today I thought, let me give you guys some quick tips on how to do supplies and to keep track of your supplies and make sure that we don't have shortages, make sure that we're within budget.   And kind of just helping you and your team get on that because what I found is so much of profitability comes from tracking our supplies, tracking our overhead. And if we can get that dialed in, that's one less thing that we have to worry about. So, Hey, who's for ease. I'm here for ease because at the end of the day, we can do it the hard way or we can do it the easy way. And I would love to share with you the fastest, easiest tips I've learned. And then also what I expect from you as the community is if you have ways that I'm not talking about on the podcast, please email me. Hello @ TheDentalATeam.com   I'll either bring you on as a guest or we can take some of your ideas if you don't want to be a guest and share it because I believe that yes, while you're consuming and receiving, it's also important for you to give back. And I believe that the secret to living a fulfilled life is giving back and serving as well. There's so much fulfillment in my life to serve you and to give you these tips and to give you resources from other practices, but I wouldn't be able to give it to you without their experiences as well.   Kiera Dent (04:36.354) Whether that's you join us and become one of our ambassadors who actually get to help coach some of our doctors. Whether it's you become a client, we're able to help with that. Or you just email me in and share some of your greatest ideas. I would love that. I would love it so much and it will make you feel good because then you were able to share an idea. And everyone thinks their ideas are dumb and guess what? Going from hundreds of practices, most practices are actually not doing it. And some of my best ideas are the simplest things like an office had standup desk for their front office and I thought, gosh.   I wish so many other offices knew that. So no idea is dumb. And I just want you to not feel scared to share. And don't worry, I will always polish it up and make you sound like a million bucks. So you never, ever, ever, ever have to worry. Just email me Hello @ TheDentalATeam .com and be sure to give back. Cause I think that that's a great way for you to also feel fulfilled. So with supplies, number one, I like supplies to be at a four or a 5 % of total collections. So a great thing, there's a supply spreadsheet that I've given to a lot of our offices that we consult.   where it literally is just what are they doing for their ordering and then what is the budget? Because so often, like I was a dental assistant, I would just order what we had always ordered in the past. And that's actually not the best way to do inventory management and that we don't need to. So if we give them a 4%, so let's just make our math super simple. If we're collecting 100 ,000, 4 % is four grand, 5 % would be 5 ,000. And then what they do is, whoever's ordering, they just put it on a spreadsheet, they just deduct it down, and that's our budget for the month.   Now, something else that I love are clear tip out bins. I'm obsessed with going into offices and finding this beautiful blank wall and I found it in every practice. So don't think that your practice can't do it. Sometimes you have to get a little creative, but there's always space for it. But the clear bins, when I worked at Midwestern University's dental college in Arizona, we bought so much extra inventory because we couldn't see things. And think about our houses. Like, yes, we can tuck it in drawers, but we can't see things. And for inventory, we want to be able to see things.   to know how much do we actually have of things. And so even at the dental college, students would stock their drawers and we would go through so much composite because people would be hoarding composite. And so I'm also not obsessed with stocking rooms a ton, especially if you wanna get your inventory down and get your supplies lower, which you can absolutely do. And so what I love to do is have one, the spreadsheet and the budget. So whomever's ordering knows exactly how much they can spend.   Kiera Dent (06:54.83) Let's not have it be free reign. You can also do it for the front office. I know Amazon can really run quickly on us, but make them just track it on a quick, simple spreadsheet. That way we can always watch that and get that in control. I understand that if you order implants, you might need to go higher. If an office is doing implants, usually add together the supplies and the labs. I do about between 12 and 14%, again, depending upon the rest of your practice. I'm aiming for a 50 % overhead, excluding Dr. Pay. So you can kind of play with the numbers and figure   but a good like overall supply budget is like four to 5%. That does include hygiene supplies as well. And front office, I usually give them a half a percentage to 1 % for front office supplies. Again, look at your overhead, look at the percentages. We have an incredible overhead calculator that has it all broken down into the percentages of what we recommend for each category. And then you can use your P &L and plug it in and it's really awesome. So with that said, I love to get that budget set up. And then if we can, let's get those clear,   Clear bins set up so that way we can see. Some offices will draw a line on the bin of like when it gets down to here, this is when we order. So we can visually see and it becomes so fast. You can put tags, there's some inventory management where some people will tag it and then just scan it. Other people have the tags on the bin so it's very quick when we need to reorder, cuts down the time for us. I do really love some buying GPOs. Synergy is one, so be sure to let them know Dental A Team sent you.   I think they're great because they have a whole buying group. It's kind of like Costco where we get cheaper items because we're with the group of multiples. And I think Synergy is one of the best that allows you to still work with your preferred vendors. They do work primarily with Darby. However, with that said, you can still work with most of them and still get discounts. So yes, it might take a little bit of time to get up to date, but hey, if we can buy the same stuff and actually just save ourselves a couple hundred bucks a month or a couple thousand, isn't that worth it? I always say yes.   So that's another thing is to look into that synergy or a buying group such as that. If you have a buying group you love, please be sure to reach out, let me know. Hello @ TheDentalATeam .com. will happily vet them, find out about them and see if it's someone I would recommend to our community. But with that, then what we wanna do is we also wanna make sure that our team knows what our supplies need to be. And then everybody, I really am not obsessed with having things in operatories because if I have to stock.   Kiera Dent (09:11.724) six operatories with composite that can get very costly. And so also having tubs or those carts, if you don't know what I'm talking about, be sure to reach out. I'm happy to share pictures with you. But cart parking, and so we have like two carts for implants. We've got a cart for endo. We've got our composite, and you can have little tubs or bins. It just has everything in it. And think about how many doctors we have, how many providers. But then we just basically take it from sterile on our tray setup, take it to the room, we clean it all   put it away and off it goes. And then all I have to do is just stock the carts or the bins rather than stocking all the rooms. And I had a practice that we were actually able to cut down their supply costs exponentially due to the fact that we, all we had to do was literally just take it out of the operatories. And we were able to save so much because stocking each room was so costly and I'm having to stock basically six offices versus just having to stock those bins. The bins are also faster because I can look for it. We can fill it. And then it's all in sterile. Everything's there.   You can have drop downs. saw an office that actually had drop down bins. It's like a, I guess a clothing pull down, you know, like in closets where they're really tall. They did that for their sterile and it was amazing because they were able to have all their supplies right there. People were able to then just like restock the bins. And I did this at Midwestern when I was at the college. And what I found was I didn't have to have as many supplies because I was able to see everything. And also we had the tubs and the bins, so not as many things had to go.   And I think that's just a good way for you guys to get the supplies down to keep track the supplies to not have the supply shortages But again visually getting everything out. So if you were starting this sometimes even just in the operatories I do keep my disposables like cotton gauze floss things that we're using all the time that are very minimal cost Those stick in the operatories. You can also get the clear bins and stick them right behind your 12 o 'clock cabinet That way all those things are very easy. You can see them They're not very minimal things that we've got a stock, but really the bins are so easy   Offices love them. It might seem like a little bit change, but it makes it very, very, very simple for it. So a lot of those things, yes, I keep my disposables, my sections in the room. So those things are very simple. We use them all the time. Keep those there and they're not very costly, but the composite, the matrices bands, the impression material, all those things do become a little more costly. And so being able to cut those down really can save and then empower someone, empower them to be your supply champion, empower them   Kiera Dent (11:37.538) really be able to grow this and to, and get the person who's obsessed with like winning and figuring out how they can make ends meet. They're usually the person who really loves to be over supplies. And then they know their budget, they save the money and they're able to get it. Oftentimes buying deals when like a company has like buy two, get one free, run the numbers and make sure it's actually a good deal. Cause sometimes they're not that good of a deal. So there's my quick tactical practical for you of inventory management. Like I said,   Set up the spreadsheet with the budget, make sure we're tracking it, give the budgets to them, look at your overhead. Then the clear bins are a great thing. You can just Google them. There's a lot of them, like Z -Line, I think, is a company that has them. But just Google clear tip -out bins. They come in multiple sizes. You'll want a nice big wall. You can also put them in the operatories. Take things out of the operatory so it's all in one place. It's easier for people to track and manage. And then give someone the empowerment to just rock it and to make sure that we're never out of things.   I usually used to check my supplies like every week. My supply person usually gets one hour. It can be per week or every other week, depending upon how much you guys need to order. And that usually can keep the order going consistently. Yes, when we run this lien, we do have to order more often. But it's a great way to keep it to where we're not over bulking, over stocking, because we don't want to order as much. And then get into that GPO group buying. like Synergy, like I mentioned, can actually save you a lot of money.   for buying the exact same things you're already doing and you don't have to change. So check them out. Be sure to tell them, Dental A Team sent to you, if we can help you guys with this, get it set up, talk to your clinical team, get them excited and on board. That's what we're here for. And as always, thanks for listening. I'll catch you next time on the Dental A Team podcast.