Podcasts about Large

Generating leads is only half the battle, if you don't know how to convert them, you are leaving millions of dollars on the table. In this live episode, Brent Daniels sits down with his very own lead conversion master, Chad Coulter. After taking over 10,000 inbound calls and helping close nearly 500 deals since 2020, Chad breaks down the exact psychology and step-by-step conversion system their team uses to consistently pull in over $200,000 a month in wholesale fees.Stop interrogating your leads and start having meaningful conversations that uncover their true motivations. If you want to master your communication skills, squash seller uncertainty, and start solving big problems for massive checks, you cannot afford to miss Part 1 of this masterclass. Be a part of the TTP training program now.---------Show notes:(0:00) Beginning of today's episode.(0:56) Brent's origin story(2:19) Breaking down the three main pillars of a successful real estate business(4:58) Introducing Chad Coulter(11:04) How to set a soft, low price to manage seller expectations without insulting them.(13:17) Why the Discovery Phase is the absolute most critical part of the conversion process.(15:24) Chad shares his exact word-for-word introductory script for inbound(17:29) How to successfully transition Chad's inbound script to work seamlessly for cold calls and text message leads.(18:50) Handling the "just give me an offer" objection(20:40) Brent's San Diego watch-shopping story(23:15) Deal Breakdown Part 1(27:14) Exactly how Chad transparently answers when a seller asks, "Are you a wholesaler or the end buyer?"(29:50) Why you have to give up being selfish to truly serve your marketplace and command a high income.(31:42) Deal Breakdown Part 2(33:54) Large vs. Small Markets(36:26) Stop competing over saturated lists!----------Resources:DealMachine Mojo Dialer PropStream BatchLeads Dimitri Van Camp's Website@realbrentdaniels To speak with Brent or one of our other expert coaches call (281) 835-4201 or schedule your free discovery call here to learn about our mentorship programs and become part of the TribeGo to Wholesalingincgroup.com to become part of one of the fastest growing Facebook communities in the Wholesaling space. Get all of your burning Wholesaling questions answered, gain access to JV partnerships, and connect with other "success minded" Rhinos in the community.It's 100% free to join. The opportunities in this community  are endless, what are you waiting for?

Join us for a conversation with Zane Lamprey, TV host, spirits expert and author once dubbed by The Washington Post as having "the greatest job in America." Zane takes us behind the scenes of his career journey, from traveling the world drinking with locals on his hit shows like, "Three Sheets," and "Chug", to performing stand-up in over 100 cities a year at breweries across the country. He also opens up about his surprising creative pivot toward animal-themed content, his viral YouTube videos, and even his recent legal battle over his cat Scooter's surgery—which he plans to turn into comedy gold. Beyond the laughs, we discuss his charity nonprofit, his apparel brand, and the art of reinvention in an ever-changing entertainment landscape. Check out his website: https://zanelamprey.com/ Watch his Amazon Prime comedy special, Ski Patrol: https://www.amazon.com/Zane-Lamprey-Patrol-Greg-Fitzsimmons/dp/B0D61MRV3C Watch his Amazon Prime comedy special, Medium Club: https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0GHPJGZTJ/ref=atv_sr_fle_c_sra5ba81_2_1_2?sr=1-2&pageTypeIdSource=ASIN&pageTypeId=B0GHQ64HJR&qid=1778681613057 Buy his book: https://zanelamprey.com/glass-half-full/ _____________________________________ WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/bartenderatlarge FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Erick Castro: www.instagram.com/HungryBartender Bartender at Large: www.instagram.com/BartenderAtLarge FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK: Erick Castro: https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrybartender?_t=ZT-8uBekAKOGwU&_r=1 Bartender at Large: www.tiktok.com/BartenderAtLarge

Episode Overview Burnout is pushing executives to rethink their careers. But most make one critical mistake: they try to escape too fast. In this episode, Michael D. Levitt speaks with Matt Raad, digital investor and co-founder of eBusiness Institute, about how corporate professionals can transition into digital assets and online businesses without risking their income. This is not about quitting your job. It is about building a second engine of income and optionality. Why Burnout Is Driving the Shift to Digital Assets Burnout is no longer isolated. It is systemic. Key pattern: Mid to senior leaders in large organizations are experiencing sustained overload Pandemic-era changes accelerated fatigue and disengagement High earners are seeking control, not just income The result: Leaders are looking for exit options that do not create financial instability. The Core Strategy: Build Before You Exit Matt outlines a disciplined transition model: Maintain your corporate income Build a digital asset over 2 to 3 years Replace income gradually Exit only when the asset is stable This avoids: Financial pressure Poor decision-making Reactive career moves This is a structured transition, not an escape plan. What Is a Digital Asset Business? A digital asset is a business that can operate with minimal physical infrastructure. Examples: Content-based websites Online courses Affiliate and SEO-driven platforms Acquired online businesses Key characteristics: Scalable Transferable Lower operating costs Location independent This aligns directly with a leadership operating system: build systems that run without constant intervention. The Financial Advantage: Low-Cost Entry, High Leverage Traditional businesses require: Large capital investments Physical locations Staffing overhead Digital businesses: Can start under $10K to $20K Require fewer fixed costs Allow testing before scaling This reduces risk and increases strategic flexibility. The Critical Mistake: Skipping Foundations AI is accelerating business creation. But it is also creating a false sense of competence. Matt emphasizes: AI tools can build faster But they cannot replace business fundamentals Without understanding: Market demand Customer acquisition Conversion systems …AI amplifies bad strategy. AI as a Force Multiplier, Not a Shortcut Tools like CoWork are changing the game: Faster business setup Automated workflows Scalable content creation But the advantage goes to those who: Understand business models Apply AI strategically Build systems, not hacks AI reduces friction. It does not replace leadership. New Opportunity: Digital Advisors for Traditional Businesses One overlooked opportunity: Corporate professionals can become: Digital transformation advisors Online growth strategists AI integration consultants For: Brick-and-mortar businesses Local service providers Traditional industries This creates: Immediate income potential Skill development Entry into digital business ecosystems The Leadership Shift: From Operator to Asset Builder This conversation highlights a deeper shift: Traditional career path: Climb the ladder Increase compensation Increase dependency New model: Build assets Create optionality Reduce dependency This is not entrepreneurship for its own sake. It is control over time, income, and direction. Key Takeaways Do not quit your job to escape burnout Build a digital asset while maintaining income Focus on fundamentals before leveraging AI Use low-cost business models to test and learn Think like an asset builder, not just an employee Action Steps Assess your burnout level Is it role-based or system-based? Identify a digital asset model Content, course, acquisition, or advisory Allocate weekly build time Consistency over intensity Learn core business fundamentals Traffic, conversion, monetization Use AI to accelerate execution Not to replace thinking Guest Links Website: https://ebusinessinstitute.com.au Podcast: Digital Investors LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-raad/

On this episode of The Tudor Dixon Podcast, Tudor Dixon sits down with former Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom and former Kansas Governor Sam Brownback for a wide-ranging discussion on China’s treatment of people of faith, the dangers of authoritarianism, and the growing concerns surrounding America’s relationship with the Chinese Communist Party. The conversation explores religious persecution, economic dependence on China, surveillance systems, national security risks, and why some believe the U.S. must rethink its long-term strategy with Beijing. Brownback shares stories from his book China’s War on Faith and discusses why he believes understanding China’s ideology and global ambitions is critical for America’s future. The episode also examines communism, religious liberty, supply chain dependence, and the broader cultural and geopolitical battle shaping the next generation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Alabama Crimson Tide's recruiting machine hits a rare snag—can Kalen DeBoer's staff fix critical gaps in the trenches before the May 29 visit bonanza? Star prospects like Mitchell Turner and John Meredith headline a must-win weekend as Alabama battles concerns over the lack of offensive tackle and defensive line recruiting dominance, shaking the foundation that powered past championship runs. Elijah Havens and Trent Seaborn lead a quality six-man commitment list, with high-upside defensive lineman Avrian Pauley deserving more attention, and versatile athletes like Colt Lumpus and Kenneth Simon II adding upside. Is this enough to offset glaring concerns at offensive line and defensive tackle? With top prospects like Monshun Sales, Hayden Step, and Malik Howard set to visit, all eyes are on whether Alabama can restore its recruiting edge—or risk falling behind SEC rivals in the race for future national titles. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it's time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join the community: https://theportal.supercast.com/ Support us by supporting our sponsors! Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Josh opens the show reflecting on America’s 250th anniversary and the growing debate over where faith fits into the future of the country. Josh discusses the troubling decline in prayer, the abandonment of Sabbath rest, and what happens to a nation when it drifts away from its spiritual foundation. He explains why the Ten Commandments still matter today and argues that returning to those timeless truths would put the country on a far better path. Josh is also joined by former U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom Sam Brownback to discuss President Trump’s trip to China and whether any real progress can be made on religious freedom under the Chinese government. The two also dive into the broader U.S.-China relationship and what’s truly at stake between the world’s two superpowers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Paola Tiedemann and Cameron Ford dive into the controversial Kong toy research that detection dog handlers have been asking about for years. This episode exclusively covers the chemical analysis of Kong rubber toys and what it means for teams using toys as training aids or rewards.What We Cover:The chemical signature found inside Kong rubber toysWhy this research was conducted and what question it answersU.S. vs. Europe: different legal frameworks for Kong trainingThe Fourth Amendment problem: probable cause and court challengesHow defense attorneys could use Kong training against handlersRisk assessment: "My client is a dog lover, there was a Kong in the car"Making informed decisions about toy-based training methodsDr. Tiedemann breaks down the science behind what dogs actually smell when detecting Kong toys, while Cameron addresses the operational and legal implications for law enforcement handlers. The conversation emphasizes informed decision-making rather than blanket recommendations—understanding both the benefits (used successfully in Europe) and risks (U.S. legal system challenges) of toy-based training.This isn't saying "don't do it"—this is saying "know what you're doing and the potential consequences."Upcoming Training Opportunities:

The news of Texas covered today includes:Our Lone Star story of the day: A slew of important Texas stories get report and comment today: Texas Lottery Commission and former director criminally charged in connection with 2023 Lotto scheme Federal judge blocks some SB4, Texas' controversial deportation law. State can still arrest people seen to enter illegally. Attorney General Paxton Makes History by Securing a Landmark Healthcare Fraud Settlement that Creates the Nation's First-Ever Detransition Clinic and Secures $10 Million from Texas Children's Hospital for “Transitioning” Children Texas Supreme Court rejects Abbott's bid to oust Rep. Gene Wu from office A big win for the Texas Citizens Participation Act (TCPA) and for a pro-life activist at the Texas Supreme Court. Our Lone Star story of the day is sponsored by Allied Compliance Services providing the best service in DOT, business and personal drug and alcohol testing since 1995.Attorney General Ken Paxton Sends Letters Prohibiting Over 130 Texas Cities from Illegally Raising Taxes After They Failed to be Transparent With Taxpayers.Anti-Wimp update: Man escalates situation, homeowner neutralizes threat with firearm.Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Warns Dallas Judge Over Courtroom Mask Mandate.Oil and gas drilling rig count rises again in Texas.Listen on the radio, or station stream, at 5pm Central. Click for our radio and streaming affiliates.www.PrattonTexas.com

Buckle up for a high-octane Friday edition of What The Truck?!? as hosts Malcolm Harris and Michael Vincent break down one of the biggest legal bombshells to hit the brokerage industry in years. We're diving deep into the news, the noise, and the rock and roll soul of the freight world. The SCOTUS Verdict: Broker Liability & f4a John Kingston, Editor at Large at FreightWaves, joins the show to dissect the unanimous 9-0 Supreme Court ruling regarding the Montgomery case. We discuss: Why the industry didn't see a unanimous decision coming. How this ruling removes the “iron curtain” of f4a protection for brokers in safety-related lawsuits. The potential “boost” for big brokers like CH Robinson and the massive new vetting burdens facing smaller players. What this means for the future of M&A and skyrocketing insurance rates. Solving the Parking Crisis with AI Joe Caivano and Venu Colli from SpotOS AI and Best Truck Parking join the quad-box to discuss why truck parking can no longer be an afterthought. How SpotOS AI is streamlining operations for facility owners using pattern recognition and real-time data. The Trimble Partnership: Meeting drivers where they are by integrating parking booking directly into GPS systems. How secure, predictable parking reduces driver stress and boosts retention. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor - TAYLOR AND MARTIN Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former U.S. Senator and U.S. Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, Sam Brownback, wrote a book called “China’s War on Faith”, that is a “bold warning about the Chinese Communist Party’s assault on religious freedom and the global consequences of digital authoritarianism”. Brownback is urging the Trump Administration to confront China’s Communist Party about the human rights violations and religious repression going on by their hand. With President Trump’s visit to China this week, there’s no time like the present to discuss why defending religious freedom is critical to preserving democracy and the future of the free world. Sam Brownback spoke with us on this topic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former U.S. Senator and U.S. Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, Sam Brownback, wrote a book called “China’s War on Faith”, that is a “bold warning about the Chinese Communist Party’s assault on religious freedom and the global consequences of digital authoritarianism”. Brownback is urging the Trump Administration to confront China’s Communist Party about the human rights violations and religious repression going on by their hand. With President Trump’s visit to China this week, there’s no time like the present to discuss why defending religious freedom is critical to preserving democracy and the future of the free world. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Megyn Kelly is joined by Ana Kasparian, host and producer of "The Young Turks," to discuss the top Democrats in the California governor's race spiraling, Katie Porter taking wild shots at Tom Steyer, Xavier Becerra embarrassingly trying to avoid tough questions, Kennedy offspring loser Jack Schlossberg struggling to explain his actual qualifications and role as a “content creator,” backlash to his congressional campaign, the massive campaign against Thomas Massie, how powerful donors are targeting him over his stance on Israel and Epstein push, and more. Then Gregory Bovino, former Border Patrol Commander at Large, joins to discuss concerns the Trump administration is taking a softer approach now on deportations, shifting rhetoric from immigration officials since Bovino left his position, how Trump's deportation policy shifted after the Minnesota killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, why Bovino believes the administration backed off aggressive enforcement, why “self-deportations” are one of the most effective immigration enforcement strategies, how interior enforcement impacts border security, the role of E-Verify, and more.   Kasparian- https://kasparian.substack.com/ Bovino- https://x.com/GregoryKBovino   Birch Gold: Text MK to 989898 for a free info kit and to see if you qualify for up to $10,000 back through May 29. Herald Group: Learn more at https://GuardYourCard.com Veracity Health: Head to https://VeracityHealth.co and use code Megyn for up to 65% off your order Relief Factor: Break up with pain—Relief Factor targets inflammation so you can move better and feel better; try the 3-Week QuickStart for just $19.95 at https://ReliefFactor.com or call 800-4-RELIEF.     Follow The Megyn Kelly Show on all social platforms: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/MegynKelly Twitter: http://Twitter.com/MegynKellyShow Instagram: http://Instagram.com/MegynKellyShow Facebook: http://Facebook.com/MegynKellyShow  Find out more information at:https://www.devilmaycaremedia.com/megynkellyshow Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this weeks episode, Large, Spider, and Quigs discuss this past weekend in NASCAR at Watkins Glen Motor Speedway. In addition, NASCAR greats, Jeff Gordon and Kyle Larson join Large in New York to break down NASCAR. Thanks for watching! New Episodes out every Thursday during the Nascar Season.

Journalist and author Ashley Rindsberg returns to The Michael Shermer Show for a wide-ranging conversation about the new media world: influencers with audiences larger than cable networks, conspiracy theories built for engagement, and the collapse of trust that followed COVID, censorship, and years of institutional overreach. Ashley Rindsberg is an investigative journalist and author focused on digital information platforms. He is the founder and editor of NPOV, which looks at how knowledge platforms like Wikipedia are used to distort information and seed damaging narratives online. He is the author of The Gray Lady Winked, an expose on The New York Times, and serves as Editor-at-Large at Pirate Wires, a leading tech, politics, and culture outlet.

A few years back, novels classed as “romantasy”—a portmanteau of “romance” and “fantasy”—might have seemed destined to attract only niche appeal. But since the pandemic, the genre has proved nothing short of a phenomenon. Sarah J. Maas's “A Court of Thorns and Roses” series has repeatedly topped best-seller lists, and Rebecca Yarros's 2025 title “Onyx Storm” became the fastest-selling adult novel in decades. On this episode of Critics at Large, Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Fry, and Alexandra Schwartz are joined by their fellow New Yorker staff writer Katy Waldman as they delve into the realm of romantasy themselves. Together, they consider some of the most popular entries in the genre, and discuss how monitoring readers' reactions on BookTok, a literary corner of TikTok, allows writers to tailor their work to fans' hyperspecific preferences. Often, these books are conceived and marketed with particular tropes in mind—but the key ingredient in nearly all of them is a sense of wish fulfillment. “The reason that I think they're so powerful and they provide such solace to us is because they tell us, ‘You're perfect. You're always right. You have the hottest mate. You have the sickest powers,' ” Waldman says. “I totally get it. I fall into those reveries, too. I think we all do.”This episode originally aired on February 13, 2025.Read, watch, and listen with the critics:“Did a Best-Selling Romantasy Novelist Steal Another Writer's Story?,” by Katy Waldman (The New Yorker)“The Song of the Lioness,” by Tamora Pierce“A Court of Thorns and Roses,” by Sarah J. Maas“Ella Enchanted,” by Gail Carson Levine“Fourth Wing,” by Rebecca Yarros“Onyx Storm,” by Rebecca Yarros“Crave,” by Tracy Wolff“Working Girl” (1988)“Game of Thrones” (2011-19)“The Vampyre,” by John Polidori“Dracula,” by Bram Stoker“Outlander” (2014–)New episodes drop every Thursday. Follow Critics at Large wherever you get your podcasts. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

08:08 — Peter Beinart is Editor-at-Large at Jewish Currents and writes “Beinart Notebook” on Substack. He is also a professor at the Newmark School of Journalism of the City University of New York. His latest book is “Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza: A Reckoning.” The post Fund Drive Special: Peter Beinart on Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza appeared first on KPFA.

This Day in Legal History: Frontiero v. RichardsonOn May 14, 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court decided Frontiero v. Richardson, a major case in the development of constitutional protections against sex discrimination. The case began when Sharron Frontiero, a lieutenant in the United States Air Force, sought dependent benefits for her husband. Under federal law at the time, a male service member could automatically claim his wife as a dependent, but a female service member had to prove that her husband depended on her for more than half of his support. Frontiero argued that this rule treated women in the military as less legitimate breadwinners than men. The Supreme Court agreed that the policy violated the Due Process Clause of the Fifth Amendment. A plurality of the Court reasoned that sex-based legal classifications often reflected outdated assumptions about women's roles in family and public life.The decision came only a year after Congress passed the Equal Rights Amendment and sent it to the states for ratification, giving the case a larger political and constitutional backdrop. Ruth Bader Ginsburg, then working with the ACLU Women's Rights Project, filed an amicus brief urging the Court to treat sex discrimination with the same suspicion it applied to race discrimination. The Court did not produce a majority for strict scrutiny in sex-discrimination cases, but Frontiero still marked a sharp move away from judicial tolerance of laws based on gender stereotypes. Justice William Brennan's plurality opinion emphasized that women had long faced legal and social discrimination, including restrictions on property ownership, voting, employment, and civic participation.The ruling helped establish that administrative convenience was not a sufficient reason for the government to impose unequal burdens on women. It also signaled that servicewomen were entitled to equal treatment within institutions, including the military, that had historically been structured around male service members. In later cases, the Court would settle on an intermediate scrutiny standard for sex-based classifications, but Frontiero remains one of the key cases that pushed constitutional law in that direction.The U.S. Department of Justice has settled an investigation into PayPal over a 2020 investment program aimed at supporting Black- and minority-owned businesses. The DOJ said PayPal's Economic Opportunity Fund gave preferences based on race, color, and national origin without being tied to a specific remedy for past discrimination. PayPal did not admit liability, and the settlement says the DOJ did not make a formal finding that the company violated the Equal Credit Opportunity Act or other federal law. As part of the agreement, PayPal will create a new small business initiative that waives processing fees on $1 billion in transactions.The fee waivers are valued at about $30 million and will apply to small businesses in farming, manufacturing, and technology, as well as businesses certified through the SBA's Veteran Small Business Certification Program. PayPal must also submit plans for the initiative, train employees on ECOA requirements, and report annually to the government. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche framed the settlement as part of the Trump administration's broader effort to challenge corporate DEI programs. PayPal said it was pleased to launch the new initiative and emphasized its long history of helping small businesses use digital financial tools. The settlement follows another recent DOJ resolution with IBM over workforce diversity-related allegations, showing continued federal scrutiny of corporate DEI practices.PayPal Settles Gov't DEI Probe With Small Biz Program - Law360The SEC and Elon Musk are scheduled to appear before a federal judge in Washington, D.C., to defend their proposed $1.5 million settlement over Musk's 2022 purchase of Twitter. The SEC's lawsuit accused Musk of delaying his disclosure that he had acquired a 5% stake in Twitter, allegedly allowing him to save about $150 million before the market reacted. Musk later bought Twitter for $44 billion.U.S. District Judge Sparkle Sooknanan has not automatically approved the deal and said she must evaluate whether it is fair, in the public interest, and free from improper collusion or corruption. She ordered both sides to appear in court and be ready to suggest a schedule for briefing in support of the settlement. The SEC filed the case in January 2025, shortly before President Biden left office. Musk has argued the case was politically motivated and has said the late disclosure was accidental.The proposed settlement would not require Musk to admit wrongdoing or surrender the money the SEC claimed he saved. Although the amount is much lower than what the SEC initially sought, a source told Reuters it was still the largest SEC penalty for that type of disclosure violation.US SEC, Musk to argue for Twitter settlement before DC judge | ReutersU.S. law firms saw strong client demand and higher billing rates in the first quarter of 2026, but those gains were limited by rising expenses and lower productivity. According to the Thomson Reuters Institute's latest Law Firm Financial Index, the quarter was healthy overall but not as financially impressive as firms might have expected given the level of demand. The report suggests that 2026 may not match the strong profit growth many firms saw in 2025, though analysts said it is still too early to draw firm conclusions. Average demand rose 2.7% from the same period last year, which the report described as an unusually strong increase. M&A work grew 4.4%, while litigation and overall corporate work each rose 2.9%. Large firms continued to push billing rates sharply higher, with Am Law 100 firms raising rates by 9.8%, while midsized firms increased rates by 5.3%. But expenses climbed almost as quickly, with direct expenses up 8.1% and overhead up 8.3%. A major driver of overhead growth was spending on technology, including artificial intelligence tools.Geopolitical instability, including the war in Iran, has also created uncertainty, with deal activity slowing in March and restructuring work not rising as expected. The report frames the market as still strong, but with enough warning signs that firms may need to watch costs, productivity, and client demand closely in the next quarter.Rising US law firm expenses offset strong demand and rate hikes in first quarter - report | ReutersA U.S. appeals court has temporarily paused a lower court ruling that had favored three challengers to the Trump administration's 10% global tariff. The pause means the tariffs remain in effect for two businesses and Washington state while the appeal continues. The U.S. trade court had ruled against the tariffs last week but did not issue a broad order stopping their collection nationwide. The Trump administration appealed that decision, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit issued a short-term administrative stay while it considers whether to grant a longer pause. The challengers now have seven days to argue against keeping the lower court ruling on hold. Washington state qualified as an importer in the case because the University of Washington, a public research institution, paid tariffs. The tariff was imposed in February under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, after the Supreme Court struck down most of Trump's 2025 tariffs. Unless Congress extends it, the 10% global tariff is scheduled to expire in July.US appeals court pauses ruling against Trump's 10% global tariff | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Segment 1: Stephen Kates, CFP, Financial Analyst, Bankrate, joins Jon Hansen to talk about how persistent inflation is impacting the housing market. Segment 2: Scott Stein, Editor at Large, CNET, joins Jon to talk about how Google is looking to shake up the laptop market with Googlebooks. Segment 3: Michelle Reisdorf, Chicago-based hiring and consulting expert, Robert Half, […]

Jon Brewton, CEO, Data2, stops by, and we talk about accountability.The negative issues we are facing about Data Centers and AI are hitting the front pages, and we need accountability for AI. We also need accountability for local politicians and all elected officials.Jon just presented right behind the Head of AI in Energy for Microsoft in an AI presentation. There were several key points in the Microsoft presentation that there was no company that could scale accountability across disparate systems. After Jon presented, the Microsoft presenter came up and said you may be the only company in the world that can provide accountability across disparate systems at scale. This is huge.When the AI lead presenter comments, “Your presentation just dispelled everything that I said that there is no accountability in AI.” This is critical.1. AI in the Energy IndustryThe conversation centers on how artificial intelligence is transforming the energy sector. While AI is positioned as a major strategic opportunity, there's a critical distinction between AI being impressive and AI creating real, measurable business value. The speakers emphasize that many companies are investing heavily in AI without seeing corresponding productivity gains.2. The Hallucination Problem & AI ValidationJohn Bruton discusses Data Squared's patented solution for addressing AI “hallucinations”—instances where AI systems generate plausible-sounding but incorrect information. The core issue is that AI without validation and cross-checking is worthless. The patent focuses on creating explainable, trustworthy, and auditable AI results, allowing organizations to “lift the hood” and see exactly how the system is reasoning.3. Data Integration & Legacy SystemsA major challenge in the energy industry is connecting disparate, fragmented systems that have accumulated over decades. The speakers highlight a real-world example where an oil company with eight acquired subsidiaries had billing processes taking 2 months; using Data Squared's solution, they reduced it to 2 minutes with verification. The key insight: you cannot create sustainable AI value without solving structural data integration problems first.4. The Four Major AI MisconceptionsLLMs aren't the solution: Large language models (ChatGPT, Gemini, etc.) are only a small component; the real challenge is data orchestration, context continuity, and workflow integrationMore data ≠ better AI: Simply aggregating all available data doesn't improve AI; inconsistent definitions and siloed information actually create problemsInfrastructure forecasting is based on promise, not proven demand: Data center expansion is being driven by theoretical AI adoption, not current production-grade deploymentsAI should augment humans, not replace them: The goal should be human-machine collaboration, not automation that eliminates jobs5. Data Center Infrastructure & Eminent DomainThe conversation addresses growing public concern about large data centers being built on private land. The speakers propose an alternative: small-scale, distributed data centers connected via mesh networks, placed next to existing energy sources (stranded gas, geothermal, etc.). This approach could:Reduce infrastructure footprint by ~90%Cut upfront capital costs by ~90%Reduce energy consumption by ~90%De-risk infrastructure at scale6. Federal Government & Legacy SystemsData Squared is working with federal agencies (DoD, VA, FBI) to integrate decades-old systems. The VA alone has operated systems from 1947, 1956, 1963, and the 1980s—all disconnected. The speakers emphasize that government is “probably the worst offender” for unintegrated legacy systems.7. Nuclear Energy & AI IntegrationThe speakers discuss the growing role of nuclear power (including small modular reactors) in supporting AI infrastructure. They emphasize that nuclear applications require absolute reliability, transparency, and auditability—making Data Squared's approach particularly valuable.8. ROI & Business ValueA recurring theme is the CEO question: “I'm spending millions on AI—where's my return?” The speakers argue that with proper validation and integration, AI can deliver measurable bottom-line value, but only when the structural data problems are solved first.This is huge, with accountability, AI can be rolled out, and we need accountability across AI and the political landscape.As I mentioned in my last SubStack article, we need political accountability at the national, state, and local levels. Get involved and help provide accountability at the local levels, and keep us posted.We need data centers rolled out responsibly and not hurting consumers. With accountability, this can be done.We have several more topics and interviews with Jon and other CEOs in the AI and Energy space on the drawing board, covering nuclear, natural gas, midstream, downstream, oilfield services, exploration, and especially utilities.Connect with Jon on his LinkedIn, and tell him Stu sent you. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-brewton-datasquared/Data2 if you have any business systems, can you trust A? Well, they have the patent on validation. https://data2.zoholandingpage.com/energySubstack article https://theenergynewsbeat.substack.com/p/ai-with-accountability-why-validation

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Stan Wong, portfolio manager at Scotia Wealth Management, shares his outlook on North American Large Caps & ETFs.

Powersports dealers are introducing financing discussions earlier in the buying process as affordability concerns and economic uncertainty shape consumer behavior during the industry's peak selling season. May is one of the most important sales periods for powersports dealers as warmer weather drives demand for motorcycles, ATVs and side-by-sides, Synchrony Outdoors Senior Vice President and General Manager Susan Medrano told Auto Finance News during a special episode of “The Roadmap” podcast.  “It's important because that buying window for peak season is so narrow,” she said. “If the consumer doesn't purchase during that window, they may not purchase till next year.”  This year, affordability pressures are changing how consumers approach purchases, with about 81% of shoppers focused on financing options when making large purchases, Medrano said, citing Synchrony's 2025 Major Purchase Study, Modern buying trends Buyers also are researching financing options before visiting dealerships and are increasingly focused on monthly payments and loan terms, Medrano said. “The financing starts much sooner in the process,” she said. “Consumers are educating themselves before they ever get there.”  That has spurred dealers to discuss financing on the showroom floor instead of waiting until customers reach the finance office, Medrano said. “If it's the monthly payment, for example, they could talk about the different terms that would be available, whether it's 36 months or it's 84 months, and the difference that makes to the consumer,” she said. “The same with total ticket price.” Those conversations allow dealers to tailor promotional APRs, repayment terms and add-ons to that customer, Medrano said. Flexible financing Flexible financing is increasingly important as dealers work to convert shoppers during the compressed seasonal sales window, Medrano said. “The worst thing that can happen is you get a customer to a finance desk and then they get sticker shock over the payment,” she said.  Synchrony also encourages digital applications and mobile approval tools that allow customers to apply for financing before or during dealership visits, Medrano said. “We're trying to make the buying process as frictionless as possible,” she said. Subscribe to “The Roadmap Podcast” on iTunes or Spotify, or download the episode. 

Frontline workers form the massive, beating heart of the global workforce, constituting up to 80% of all employees. But their enablement, experience, and upward mobility often remain quietly neglected. We sit down with J.D. Dillon, author of the upcoming Frontline Enablement Playbook, to dissect the persistent challenges these vital employees face and explore how organizations can better support and empower the often-overlooked deskless workforce.We discuss why frontline managers are structurally trapped, JD breaks down a hierarchy of frontline worker needs, and shares more about the essential role of connection—over traditional training—and why genuinely understanding, not "othering," frontline experiences is key to meaningful change. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...[00:00] How organizations support their managers[12:08] Understanding the frontline workforce[28:42] Improving employee retention strategies[36:39] Measuring impact on frontline work[40:33] Inviting in frontline employee feedback[48:40] Challenges faced by frontline managers[52:10] Supporting new managers effectively[57:07] AI tools for frontline employeesUnderstanding the Structural Trap for Frontline ManagersManagers are often tasked with driving outcomes, hitting KPIs, retaining staff, and resolving customer complaints, but can be denied the resources or authority necessary to actually effect change. Everything in organizations is pushed through managers, but the visibility and empowerment of frontline managers is substantially less than that of their corporate peers, making both their influence and recognition of their struggles far more limited. This leads to a burned-out, under-supported middle layer that directly impacts both employee engagement and business performance.Connection Over ContentTraditional strategies for improving frontline performance tend to default to more training or pressuring managers to be the catch-all for corporate initiatives. But this approach is not just incomplete—it may even be counterproductive. Instead of overloading managers with binders and leadership development modules, organizations should focus on fostering connection—especially enabling peer connections among frontline managers at different locations. Meaningful conversations, mentoring, and crowdsourced problem-solving trump content-driven learning. Managers, after all, best learn from each other's lived realities, not generic directives.The Hierarchy of Frontline NeedsAt the core of Dillon's framework is a hierarchy of needs for frontline workers:Livelihood – The basic requirement: fair pay and benefits, recognizing that for many, work is first and foremost about economic necessity.Stability – Reliable schedules, clear policies, and the ability to plan life around work.Community – A sense of belonging and connection with coworkers; the knowledge that one's immediate work environment isn't built around corporate KPIs, but relationships.Culture and Purpose – The “top” of the pyramid: tying individual roles to broader organizational purpose and values.Organizations often leap to culture-focused initiatives while neglecting the foundational layers. Without addressing pay, scheduling, and daily support first, those higher-order efforts rarely stick.Tensions, Trade-offs, and Small-Scale ChangeFrontline management must constantly navigate tensions such as being tasked with outcomes but denied the necessary authority, being pushed to develop staff but overwhelmed by daily operational issues, and being measured by metrics that don't always reflect lived realities. JD believes that these tensions don't have simple solutions; they have to be navigated, not "fixed".Large-scale, top-down changes are rare. Instead, incremental improvements, like investing in small process shifts, removing single pain points for managers, or fostering peer communities, can create real traction every shift. “Every shift counts, small shifts matter,” according to JD. Resources & People MentionedThe Frontline Enablement Playbook by JD DillonSapiens by Yuval Noah HarariConnect with Guest NameJD Dillon's WebsiteJD Dillon on LinkedInConnect With Red Thread ResearchWebsite: Red Thread ResearchOn LinkedInOn FacebookOn TwitterSubscribe to WORKPLACE STORIES

Namibia sits on the south-west coast of Africa. Below Angola, above South Africa, with Botswana to the east.Portuguese explorers first reached the coast here in the 1480s. No natural harbour, brutal surf, cold Atlantic fog, the Namib Desert running straight into the sea, little access to fresh water. They planted crosses to mark their claims, turned around and went home again, never to return.Today that coast is known as the Skeleton Coast because of shipwrecks and whale bones.Three hundred years later, having decided there was too much tropical disease in Gambia, the British looked at Namibia as a possible penal colony. They decided it was too inhumane.It was Germans and Finns who eventually settled on the coast another hundred years on.Namibia is about three and a half times the size of the UK, and yet its population is only 3 million. It is big and empty. Most of it is desert.I've got more endless expanse shots than I know what to do with. Here is just one of them. Plus a short vid shot from a hot air balloon which gives you an idea of the sheer endlessness of the place.Even in the capital city, Windhoek, there is just so much space.The only two places in the world that are less densely populated are Greenland and Mongolia. Namibia beats even Australia and Mauritania, which is mostly Sahara desert.Demographically, the country is roughly 87% black, 6% white and 5% mixed race, with the Ovambo people to the north making up about half the population. I saw a few Asians while I was there too.A country of extremesThere are still bushmen and other ancient hunter-gatherer people living as they have lived for centuries, yet other parts of the country are extremely modern. There are shopping centres to rival our own, good roads (the best in Africa, I was told), great restaurants, commercial farms and more. About half the population is urban. The national language is English, adopted after the country gained independence from South Africa in 1990, but I found that people, black and white, would as often speak amongst themselves in Afrikaans and, up north, Ovambo. On the coast German is widely spoken. (The country was a German colony from the 1880s until World War I, when South Africa, then British, invaded. Hence it has great beer.)The controlling political force is the South West Africa People's Organisation (SWAPO), which has governed since independence in 1990. SWAPO is nominally social democratic, but there are still strong liberation-era left-wing instincts, as evidenced by streets in the capital renamed after independence: Fidel Castro Street, Robert Mugabe Avenue and so on.All being said, Namibia functions well.It is a stable democracy with rule of law, an independent judiciary (the government sometimes loses cases), relatively free markets and low crime by African (and European) standards. Immigration law is tight too. Having seen the problems stemming from mass immigration into South Africa, Namibia has taken a more controlled approach.Indeed I heard repeated frustrations from mining companies trying to obtain visas for geologists and mining engineers where the local expertise either does not exist or is employed elsewhere.Official unemployment is 37%, but I heard from several different sources that the real number is above 50%. 50%! Very sad.Nominal GDP per capita sits around US$5,000, roughly double that adjusted for purchasing power, which puts it above most of sub-Saharan Africa. The World Bank classifies Namibia as a lower-middle-income country, alongside countries such as Albania, Argentina and Belize. But these numbers are misleading.The country has vast wealth through its natural resources and related industries: uranium, copper, diamonds, fishing and tourism. Spread that revenue across just 3 million people and the averages look impressive.There is also serious rural poverty.Namibia combines first-world infrastructure with third-world unemployment.The currency is pegged to the South African rand, not one I would have chosen. Official inflation sits in the 2-3% range.About 88% of the country's sovereign debt is held domestically, and there appears to be healthy demand for its bonds. The country has also recently begun a sovereign wealth fund, which is reportedly growing at an impressive 16% since 2022. The central bank has recently also implemented a gold acquisition programme. Kudos.The country has high institutional savings and one the larger stock exchanges in sub-Saharan Africa.Food is cheap, protein in particular. The country has an enormous cattle herd, almost as large as its population. Recent outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease in neighbouring countries are therefore a cause for concern, as you can imagine. (Not my bag, but I reckon there is an opportunity exporting Namibian biltong to the UK, where it is expensive. I brought back loads). Other goods, however, can be expensive because the country relies heavily on imports.If you live in a third world country such as the UK, I urge you to own gold or silver. The pound will be further devalued, as will the euro and dollar. The bullion dealer I use and recommend is The Pure Gold Company. They deliver to the UK, the US, Canada and Europe. More here.The main industries - tourism and natural resourcesPorts are expanding. The railways are not great, though I hear they will be improved. The roads, however, are excellent, as I said. Namibia is also the world's third-largest uranium producer after Kazakhstan and Canada. Chinese interests hold majority stakes in the country's three largest uranium mines, not to mention other metals.Oil and gas have recently been discovered offshore. Shell plc is one of the pioneers.As for gold, Namibia only really became a meaningful gold player after independence, since when roughly 15 million ounces have been discovered, much of it alongside copper. Among the larger players is B2 Gold (BTO.TO), which is well known in the country. Large parts of the country remain un- or under-explored. And I think that is where a lot of the big opportuities lie.There also appear to be rare earth deposits in some abundance. Kendrik Resources (KEN.L) recently made some progress here. Solar, wind and hydrogen projects are also attracting investment tooChinese money helped build the SWAPO headquarters, and they are investing significantly in mines in the country. Of note is that the USA recently spent heavily developing their embassy. It is big. Former Trump attorney John Giordano is now ambassador, a surprisingly high -profile appointment for such a low-profile country.One theory I heard repeatedly was that, given deteriorating US relations with South Africa, Washington increasingly sees Namibia as strategically important in terms of Atlantic access, energy routes and influence in the south Atlantic. Not quite the Panama Canal or Strait of Hormuz, but it could be something of a chokepoint. Namibia feels like a country at the cusp of something.It has space, resources, energy, political stability and strategic importance.Next week I want to look in more detail at Namibia as an investment destination, particularly its mining sector, where some very interesting things may be developing.My thanks go to to Rowland Brown and Chanel Marais of Cirrus Capital for bringing me to Namibia and for organizing what was a brilliant and instructuve conference.Thank you for reading the Flying Frisby.Until next time,Dominic This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.theflyingfrisby.com/subscribe

On today's show, we hear about Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett's trip to Bentonville last weekend. Plus, we explore new tech that's helping Ozarks at Large share stories with more people. Plus, we learn about a major street that will temporarily close in Fayetteville.

President Trump is set to visit Beijing this week for a high-stakes meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Trevor Hunnicutt of Reuters joins to discuss what to expect from the summit. The war with Iran is hitting U.S. farmers in especially hard. Kayla Steinberg of NBC News breaks down how the rising costs of fuel and fertilizer are presenting them with big challenges. After drastically shortening its training program for new recruits, ICE will now restore previous standards. The Washington Post’s Sarah Blaskey joins to discuss how training will change. Plus, the Supreme Court cleared the way for Alabama to redraw its map, Trump said he supports suspending the federal gas tax, and NBC's Savannah Guthrie is taking on a new role. Today’s episode was hosted by Gideon Resnick.

We speak with astrophysicist and journalist Adam Becker about a new development: what if you could outsource even more aspects of your childcare, namely children's play, to an LLM-connected device? What if your stuffed rabbit espoused Dengism? What if you wound up with an ancap Labubu? All this and more, on this week's episode. Check out Dreaming Against the Machine here! Our friends at Trade Unions Fighting the Far Right are organising a demo against Tommy Robinson on 16th May in London! You can check out their details on their site here, and also on instagram @tuff.network Get more TF episodes each week by subscribing to our Patreon here! RILEY ALERT Check out No Gods, No Mayors here! HUSSEIN ALERT Check out 10k Posts here! MILO ALERT Check out Milo's tour dates here: https://www.miloedwards.co.uk/liveshows NATE ALERT Lions Led By Donkeys will be performing live in London on 29th May and you can get tickets here! Also, Nate's band Second Homes has just released their debut album, and you can stream it for free here! Trashfuture are: Riley (@raaleh), Milo (@Milo_Edwards), Hussein (@HKesvani), Nate (@inthesedeserts), and November (@postoctobrist)  

On episode 366 of The Dore Report, the fellas are joined once again by Alex Kurbegov to break down one of the most damaging weekends Vanderbilt baseball has had in many years.After dropping a series to last-place Missouri, the Tigers' first home SEC series win in over two years, the VandyBoys' at-large NCAA Tournament hopes appear all but dead. Will, Trevor, and Alex discuss the disastrous weekend in Columbia, including FogGate, bullpen collapses, questionable late-game decisions, and why Vanderbilt now likely needs to win the SEC Tournament in Hoover to keep the program's NCAA Tournament streak alive.The crew also dives into Alex's “three bullets” on what is wrong with Vanderbilt baseball right now and what needs to change moving forward.Before baseball talk, the guys discuss Tyler Tanner's NBA Draft outlook after his NBA Combine measurements began circulating online, plus the latest NIL valuation conversation surrounding Vanderbilt football that has been making waves on social media.The episode closes out with premium message board questions.Let's have ourselves a TuesdaySubscribe to The Dore Report today for just $1 -> https://www.on3.com/sites/the-dore-report/join/

Jeremy Keil walks through three critical questions future retirees can answer before their paycheck stops Most people spend decades preparing for retirement by focusing on one number: How much have I saved? But retirement isn't really about the size of your portfolio. It's about whether you can turn that portfolio into reliable income that supports the life you want. That transition—from saving money to living on it—is where retirement planning becomes real. And if you're retiring within the next 12 months, there are three questions you can answer before your paycheck stops. Question #1: How Much Monthly Income Do I Actually Need? Unfortunately, this is where many people start with the wrong approach. Most retirees try building a budget from scratch. They estimate utilities, groceries, gas, dining out, subscriptions, and dozens of other categories. The problem? Those budgets are almost always wrong. They tend to assume: Nothing unexpected happens You never spend impulsively You never travel more than expected You never have major one-time expenses Instead of trying to build a perfect budget from zero, Jeremy recommends a simpler and often more accurate approach: Look at what already happened. Specifically:What actually went into your checking account over the last 12–24 months? Because in most households, what goes into checking eventually gets spent. That “take-home pay” becomes a much better starting point for estimating retirement income needs. But there are a few important adjustments. Don't Forget These Costs Your paycheck today already has several things removed before it hits your checking account: Taxes Health insurance Retirement savings contributions Once you retire: You may stop saving for retirement Your health insurance costs may change Your tax situation will likely change That means your gross salary is not the same as your retirement income need. Many find it valuable to separate out: Mortgage costs Annual expenses (property taxes, insurance, vacations) Large one-time expenses Pre-65 vs. post-65 healthcare costs Retirement spending isn't just monthly bills. It's the full picture. Question #2: When Should I Take Social Security? Most people already have an answer to this question before they ever run the numbers. And often, that decision is emotional. Maybe a parent died young. Maybe a friend claimed at 62. Maybe someone simply wants to “get their money.” But what if you about Social Security differently? Not as an investment. As insurance. The official name of the program is Old-age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance. That framing matters. Social Security exists to help: If you live longer than expected If one spouse dies earlier than expected If inflation remains high If markets struggle during retirement In other words, Social Security is there to protect against things not going according to plan. That's why filing decisions shouldn't be based only on “break-even” calculators. The better question is:What role does Social Security play in protecting your retirement? Question #3: How Should I Adjust My Investments Before Retirement? One of the biggest mistakes retirees make is treating retirement like a light switch. They assume:Growth before retirement.Income after retirement. But markets don't work on your timeline. Jeremy shared a powerful example from 2020:People planning to retire within a year stayed fully invested in stocks because markets had been performing well. Then COVID hit. Markets dropped sharply, and many panicked—selling near the bottom because they suddenly realized they needed that money soon. The issue wasn't just the market drop. It was that their investments weren't aligned with their time horizon. Your Investments Should Be Ready Early Get your investments ready to retire three years before retirement. Why? Because roughly half of retirees stop working earlier than expected. If your investments are prepared ahead of time: Market volatility becomes less stressful You have short-term money available if needed You're less likely to panic during downturns You gain flexibility if retirement comes sooner than planned But there's balance here too. Retirement doesn't mean abandoning long-term growth entirely. If retirement could last 25–30 years, some money still needs long-term growth potential. The key is having: Short-term money for near-term needs Long-term money for future growth Not all one or all the other. The Bottom Line Retirement isn't just about stopping work. It's about replacing a paycheck with a plan. And before your paycheck disappears, you should know: What your lifestyle actually costs What role Social Security plays in your plan Whether your investments are prepared for retirement realities Because when those three pieces work together, retirement becomes much more than a date on the calendar. It becomes sustainable. Don't forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA is a retirement financial advisor with Keil Financial Partners, author of Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Income Plan in 5 Simple Steps, and host of the Retirement Today blog and podcast, as well as the Mr. Retirement YouTube channel. Jeremy is a contributor to Kiplinger and is frequently cited in publications like the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps “Retiring in the Next 12 Months? Answer These 3 Questions Before Your Paycheck Stops” – by Jeremy Keil, Kiplinger Magazine 5StepRetirementplan.com  Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

My conversation with Christin Crabtree about her campaign for an at-large seat on the Minneapolis School Board.Watch: https://youtube.com/wedgeliveJoin the conversation: https://bsky.app/profile/wedge.liveSupport the show: https://patreon.com/wedgeliveWedge LIVE theme song by Anthony Kasper x LaFontsee

A website launch is not the finish line. It is the starting point. In this episode, Meredith Olmstead and Rebecca Gwaltney break down the most common website maintenance mistakes credit unions and community banks make after launch, and how those small oversights can quietly impact performance, SEO, and conversions over time.Key Takeaways:1. Your homepage needs ongoing attention, not a set-it-and-forget-it approach. Homepage messaging can quickly become outdated if it is not refreshed regularly. Rotating promotions, updating visuals, and using smart content based on user behavior can significantly improve engagement and conversions2. Outdated content and broken paths hurt both SEO and user experience.  Stale product pages, expired promotions, and broken conversion paths can lead to lost leads and lower search rankings. Regular audits and simple testing processes help ensure your website continues to perform as intended.3. Technical maintenance directly impacts performance and visibility.  Page speed, accessibility, and SEO require ongoing monitoring. Large images, missing updates, and lack of backlinks can slow your site down and reduce discoverability, making consistent maintenance essential for long-term success.

Are you stuck screening endless compounds in biosimilar development and still not hitting your quality targets? Efficient compound screening is one of the toughest bottlenecks in biopharma, with outdated methods slowing progress and risking critical quality attributes in monoclonal antibody development.David Brühlmann breaks down a practical, parallel framework for rapid compound screening that addresses interaction effects, masking, and data quality. Methods proven in challenging biosimilar development programs.Topics discussed:The historical bottleneck of one-at-a-time screening in drug discovery and the impact of high throughput methods (01:04)Problems with both one-factor-at-a-time and large design of experiments approaches when handling many variables (02:10)Description of the parallel group method: splitting 17 quality modulating compounds into five biologically relevant groups and running experiments in parallel (06:09)How grouping compounds by biological mechanism improves interpretability and experimental design (06:43)Strategies for minimizing dilution effects, toxicity risks, and masking in multi-factor screens (08:24)The importance of multivariate analysis: using principal component analysis (PCA), Mahalanobis distance, and decision trees to interpret and select optimal experimental conditions (10:31)Real-world outcomes: identifying optimal compound combinations in just two rounds of screening (15:20)Reflections on the evolving role of hybrid modeling and machine learning in biosimilar process optimization (15:54)In Part 2, the focus shifts to a hands-on approach, covering how to design compound groups based on biology, set concentration ranges without compromising data quality, and execute a 96-well screen with the rigor the method demands. It also highlights three key aspects that would be approached differently if the study were conducted today.Strategic insight:Effective compound screening shifts from one-at-a-time testing to biology-driven parallel grouping combined with multivariate analytics, enabling faster identification of optimal combinations while preserving data quality and capturing interaction effects.If you want more detail, you can read the full article “Parallel experimental design and multivariate analysis provides efficient screening of cell culture media supplements to improve biosimilar product quality” published in Biotechnology and Bioengineering, which outlines the methods and findings behind this approach.If you're interested in hybrid modeling, here's what previous podcast guests have shared on the topic, offering perspectives from fundamentals to real-world applications.Episodes 05 - 06: Hybrid Modeling: The Key to Smarter Bioprocessing with Michael SokolovEpisodes 99 - 100: From Raw Data to Actionable Insights: Unlocking the Power of Process Models with Fabian FeidlEpisodes 137 - 138: Skip 90% of Bioreactor Runs: The In Silico Revolution in Bioprocess Development with Yossi QuintEpisodes 173 - 174: Mastering Hybrid Model Digital Twins: From Lab Scale to Commercial Bioprocessing with Krist GernaeyNext step: If this was useful, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It helps other scientists find this content, and it genuinely matters.Support the show

Mundelein police officers were called to a home by a 9-1-1 caller who claimed to be the relative of a suicidal woman. Authorities arrived to the residence and shot and killed the woman allegedly armed with two large knives. The Lake County Major Crime Task Force is investigating.

In today's episode I'm talking about how to monetize your podcast without sponsorships or a massive following/audience. I've been able to use my podcast to scale my business and make money directly from my podcast by doing everything I talk about here. Click Here: to Join the free podcast masterclassClick here: to get my affiliate course for 80% commissionFollow me @sixfigurehoney

This PRmoment podcast looks at the PR pitch market in the UK and the PR M&A activity for April 2026.PRmoment founder Ben Smith interviews Andrew Bloch.Andrew also runs the advisory firm Andrew Bloch & Associates.Pitch Market - Trading has been generally positive and the market remains resilient, with many agencies out performing expectations. However, operational pressures are evident, including slower client response times and higher-than-expected inflation causing rising costs and impacting profitability. Transparent conversations around value, output, and outcomes are becoming increasingly critical as both sides navigate a more complex and cost-sensitive landscape. Agencies will be closely monitoring the impact of global events but for now, many are benefiting from momentum built in Q1, which shows little sign of slowing. By month-end, most agencies should have a clearer view of the year ahead.M&A Market - M&A activity points to a market increasingly driven by capability consolidation, specialist expertise and tech-enabled differentiation. Large holding groups are continuing to make targeted acquisitions to deepen strengths in high-growth areas such as social, influencer, sports marketing and experiential, with a clear focus on building more connected, end-to-end communications ecosystems. Private equity remains active in backing platform-building businesses and specialist agencies with strong vertical expertise, particularly where there is an opportunity to internationalise, professionalise or bolt on proprietary tech and data assets. We are also seeing growing value placed on owned technology, data and creator/influencer platforms as acquirers look for defensible IP and measurable ROI. Alongside strategic and PE-led deals, founder succession and management buyouts continue to shape the independent agency landscape, while newer niche businesses are increasingly carving out value through highly defined audience propositions before either scaling independently or becoming attractive acquisition targets. Overall, the market remains robust for differentiated assets that combine specialist sector expertise, scalable international reach and technology-led or measurable service offerings.

Sponsor Link:When you're ready to secure your online digital life, do what we did and get NordVPN. To get started, use our great deal and save a heap of money. For details Click HereEpisode 100 of Series 5 and the universe is not slowing down. Today: a live ISS resupply launch, a Mars rover drama that took a week to resolve, a cosmic debate about our galactic neighbour, two extraordinary black hole findings from the James Webb Space Telescope, and a brand-new category of planet that smells of rotten eggs. Plus a quick milestone moment for the show.   STORIES IN THIS EPISODE   •       SpaceX CRS-34 launches tonight — 6,500 lbs of cargo, science payloads, weather risks •       Curiosity rover's 'Atacama' rock drama — a first in 14 years of Mars exploration •       The Large Magellanic Cloud may be approaching the Milky Way for the very first time •       JWST's little red dots: an X-ray clue a decade in the making •       JWST: two early-universe black holes that outgrew their galaxies by a factor of hundreds •       L 98-59 d: a brand-new class of planet — global magma ocean, sulphur-rich atmosphere   CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS   •       0:00 — Cold open & Episode 100 milestone •       1:30 — Story 1: SpaceX CRS-34 launches tonight •       5:00 — Story 2: Curiosity rover's 'Atacama' rock saga •       8:30 — Story 3: Is the Large Magellanic Cloud a first-time visitor? •       12:00 — Story 4: JWST's little red dots — the X-ray dot emerges •       15:30 — Story 5: JWST black holes that outgrew their galaxies •       19:00 — Story 6: L 98-59 d — the rotten egg planet •       22:30 — Southern skywatching & outro   Subscribe for daily space and astronomy news. Find us at astronomydaily.io and across all platforms at @AstroDailyPod.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support.Sponsor Details:Ensure your online privacy by using NordVPN. To get our special listener deal and save a lot of money, visit www.bitesz.com/nordvpn. You'll be glad you did!Become a supporter of Astronomy Daily by joining our Supporters Club. Commercial free episodes daily are only a click way... Click HereThis episode includes AI-generated content.

Mea Culpawelcomes back Rick Wilson, longtime Republican political strategist, infamous negative ad-maker, and commentator. Since 2015, he's been a leading conservative critic of Donald Trump. His regular column with The Daily Beast is a hilarious and spot-on must-read in the political community. He is also a founding member of the Lincoln Project. Rick's been published in The Washington Post, Politico, The Hill, The London Spectator, Rolling Stone, The New York Daily News, USA Today, The Bulwark and beyond and he's constantly called upon for sharp political insights on the national news networks, including CNN and MSNBC. He's also a fan favorite on Real Time with Bill Maher. A 30-year veteran of politics, Rick got his start in the 1988 Presidential campaign of George Herbert Walker Bush. Rick is also a best-selling author, his latest book is “Running Against the Devil” and his #1 New York Times, best-seller, “Everything Trump Touches Dies” which quintessentially defined the Trump and Michael and Rick dig deep into Clarence Thomas, Fox News, and all of Trump's pending cases and DeSantis.

Welcome back to "The 20 Kingdoms", a new season of The Earful Tower podcast. As you probably know, there are 20 districts in Paris, known as arrondissements. They may as well be kingdoms, at least for this podcast season, where I'll visit each kingdom and introduce you to someone who truly loves it. That's the whole concept. This isn't me recommending cafes or restaurants in different parts of town. This is true locals telling us about the soul of their kingdom and what they like to do there. The goal is to give you a very real look at each of these districts from a local's perspective.  And for the 19th Kingdom, the second episode of the season, you'll meet Ben McPartland, the presenter and producer of the Talking France podcast, which is made by The Local France news website here in Paris.  He loves this "genuine neighbourhood" of an arrondissement, and I met him at the edge of the Bassin de la Villette for a pint of beer, which he also loves. Here's what he had to say. Mentioned in this episode: Drinks, Food & Canal Hangouts Paname Brewing Company A floating brewery on the Bassin de la Villette with an easygoing, almost London-style pub atmosphere. Great beers, lively crowds, and one of the best sunset views over the canal. 41 Quai de la Loire, 75019 panamebrewingcompany.com L'Atalante Just up the Canal de l'Ourcq from Paname Brewing, this spot is known for its strong craft beer selection and excellent IPAs. 26 Quai de la Marne, 75019 latalante-paris.com La Rotonde Historic circular building at Stalingrad with restaurants, terraces, and drinks right on the edge of the canal basin. Ideal meeting point before exploring the neighborhood. 6–8 Place de la Bataille de Stalingrad, 75019 Bars Inside Buttes-Chaumont In summer, the park fills with tiny outdoor bars and terraces tucked among the hills and pathways — perfect for an afternoon drink after wandering the park. Music, Film & Culture Philharmonie de Paris One of Paris's great modern concert halls, famous for its dramatic silver architecture and panoramic rooftop terrace overlooking the city. 221 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 75019 philharmoniedeparis.fr Le Zénith Large live music venue inside Parc de la Villette hosting major touring artists and rock concerts. 211 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 75019 le-zenith.com MK2 Cinemas Twin cinemas facing each other across the canal. A favorite local spot for late-night screenings and films in original English versions. 7 Quai de la Loire & 14 Quai de la Seine, 75019 mk2.com Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie Massive science and industry museum loved by Parisian families, with exhibitions, immersive installations, and huge open spaces. 30 Avenue Corentin Cariou, 75019 cite-sciences.fr On the Water Marin d'Eau Douce Rent small electric boats and cruise the Canal de l'Ourcq yourself — especially beautiful from spring through early autumn. 37 Quai de la Seine, 75019 marindeaudouce.fr Kayaks & Rowboats Locals can often access free kayaking and rowing sessions around the Bassin de la Villette on weekends during warmer months. Summer Canal Swimming Every summer, sections of the Bassin de la Villette transform into open-air swimming areas, with races, floating pools, and seasonal events. Parks & Walks Parc des Buttes-Chaumont Wild, cinematic, and hilly — often called the most beautiful park in Paris. Expect cliffs, bridges, waterfalls, a lake, and incredible Sacré-Cœur views. Parc de la Villette Huge contemporary park blending architecture, green space, music venues, museums, and canal life into one sprawling cultural district. **************** This episode brought to you by The Earful Tower Tours. Come join us in the Marais, Montmartre, or the Latin Quarter. Our Walking Tours are exceptionally highly rated online and are the best way to experience this podcast in real life. The Earful Tower exists thanks to support from its members. For just $10 a month you can unlock almost endless extras including bonus podcast episodes, live video replays, special event invites, and our annually updated PDF guide to Paris.  Membership takes only a minute to set up on Patreon, or Substack. Thank you for keeping this channel independent.  For more from the Earful Tower, here are some handy links: Website  Weekly newsletter  Walking Tours Music: Pres Maxson 

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00:00 - a DRUBBING 03:56 - Tyrese Maxey 11:36 - Sixers bench woes 15:00 - Joel Embiid 19:20 - What is Joel Embiid's legacy? 23:11 - Josh Hart's snide comments 26:05 - Offseason discussions loom  

Andrew needs backup that all fountain drinks should cost the same amount regardless of size. Johnny needs backup that we need government regulation on Youtube comments. Enjoy! Support the showRemember to sign up for the Patreon for Post-Show Banter! https://patreon.com/thecavalrypodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

“Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed; and he healed them. Large crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea and the region across the Jordan followed him.” - Matthew 4:23-25 NIV If you would like to partner in the work we are doing locally and globally, please visit https://myLOH.church/GIVE

Jeremy Zakis describes a sinister "battalion" of over one hundred cockatoos that have occupied the pine trees around his home in a formation reminiscent of Alfred Hitchcock's The Birds. These large, white-crested birds are portrayed as destructive villains that show dominance by stripping tree branches and staring down residents. Jeremy recounts how they used their powerful beaks to snap brass cables on his bird feeder and expresses concern they may begin pulling nails out of his roof. Unlike other birds, these cockatoos appear to be calling for reinforcements to conduct a "full frontal assault" on the yard. (4/4)

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Sahra S. Halpern. Interview Purpose The purpose of this interview is to educate small business owners—especially entrepreneurs of color—about equitable access to capital, alternative lending pathways, and how to become “capital ready.” Sahra Halpern, President and CEO of the Business Consortium Fund (BCF), explains how mission‑driven lending fills the gap left by traditional banks and helps small businesses survive, grow, and ultimately graduate into mainstream financing. The conversation also aims to demystify lending, reduce fear around capital, and encourage entrepreneurs to build trusted financial relationships before entering moments of crisis. Core Themes Discussed 1. Why Small Businesses Are Turned Down by Banks Halpern explains that many small businesses are rejected by banks not because they lack potential, but because banks operate under strict underwriting and regulatory requirements. These systems often fail to account for resilience, experience, contracts, and future growth. BCF exists to serve as a bridge—supporting businesses where banks cannot and preparing them to eventually return as qualified borrowers. 2. Capital Curious vs. Capital Ready A key distinction introduced in the interview is the difference between businesses that are “capital curious” and those that are “capital ready.” Many entrepreneurs know they need funding but lack: Financial organization Clear projections Proper documentation A capital strategy BCF provides technical assistance to help businesses prepare for financing instead of setting them up to fail. 3. Mission‑Driven Lending and Community Impact Halpern frames lending as an ecosystem, not a transaction. When small businesses succeed: Business owners gain stability Employees gain jobs Communities grow stronger Large corporations benefit from more diverse and capable supply chains BCF focuses on long‑term economic impact, not short‑term profit. 4. CDFIs vs. SBA Loans The interview draws a clear distinction between Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) like BCF and government entities such as the SBA. Key differences highlighted: SBA programs shift based on political administrations SBA underwriting has tightened in recent years CDFIs are nonprofit, mission‑aligned, and relationship‑driven CDFIs look at the whole entrepreneur, not just credit scores 5. The Danger of Merchant Cash Advance Loans Halpern strongly warns against Merchant Cash Advance (MCA) loans, which are often marketed as fast solutions but carry extremely high interest rates and long‑term consequences. She explains that: MCAs disqualify borrowers from future SBA refinancing They often trap business owners in cycles of expensive debt CDFIs like BCF can help refinance and escape these loans A real‑world case study (The Cut Buddy / Shark Tank entrepreneur) illustrates how BCF helped refinance over $1M in predatory debt and save a growing business. 6. Relationships Matter More Than Transactions Both Halpern and McDonald emphasize the importance of building lender relationships early, not only when cash flow is tight. BCF underwrites the entire business and the entrepreneur, rather than seizing control of a contract or revenue stream, as some factoring companies do. Power comes from having options—and informed decision‑making. Key Takeaways Banking rejection is not the end of the road Small businesses must prepare themselves to be capital ready CDFIs serve as critical bridges between entrepreneurs and traditional banks Fast money often leads to expensive, dangerous debt Merchant cash advances should be avoided whenever possible Mission‑driven lenders look at the whole entrepreneur, not just numbers Strong lender relationships protect businesses during uncertainty Capital should empower growth—not take control of your company Notable Quotes “Just because a bank says no doesn’t mean that’s the end of your road.” “We’re not just looking at your credit score—we’re looking at you as a whole entrepreneur.” “Capital readiness is not about desperation; it’s about preparation.” “If you’re sitting on a merchant cash advance loan right now, you are not stuck.” “Nothing makes me happier than seeing clients realize their dreams and grow into multimillion‑dollar businesses.” “You should talk to multiple lenders—but you should always understand the real cost of the money.” Conclusion Sahra Halpern’s interview serves as a practical roadmap and a cautionary lesson for small business owners navigating today’s uncertain economic landscape. It reinforces that access to capital is about strategy, education, and relationships, not just approval or rejection. The conversation encourages entrepreneurs to reclaim power, avoid predatory financing, and partner with institutions that are committed to their long‑term success and community impact. #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Ken Schurb of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod The post Martin Luther's Large Catechism, Part 9 – Dr. Ken Schurb, 5/8/26 (1281) first appeared on Issues, Etc..

Kevin Fallon is Editor-at-Large of Obsessed at The Daily Beast, host of Obsessed: The Podcast, and writer of the Obsessed substack. He joins the show for a deep dive into the pop culture corners worth obsessing over. We get into the enduring chaos of The Real Housewives, revisit the underrated charms of Ladies of London, and unpack why the new Michael Jackson biopic Michael is, in Kevin's words, a sanitized hagiography that never reckons with its subject. Kevin also pulls back the curtain on what it's really like working in media right now, and closes the conversation with three book recommendations you'll want to add to your stack. Reality Life with Kate Casey What to Watch List: https://katecasey.substack.com Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/katecasey Twitter: https://twitter.com/katecasey Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/katecaseyca Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itskatecasey?lang=en Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/113157919338245 Amazon List: https://www.amazon.com/shop/katecasey Like it to Know It: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/katecaseySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this weeks episode, Large, Spider, and Quigs discuss this past weekend in NASCAR at Texas Motor Speedway. IN addition, Tyler Reddicks spotter, Nick Payne joins the show to chop it up with Spider about the success of his team. Thanks for watching! New Episodes out every Thursday during the Nascar Season.

Donald Trump has been raging at Pope Leo's criticism of the Iran war for weeks, and he just unleashed his most vile attack yet. Trump accused the Pope of “endangering a lot of Catholics” by advocating for peace. Yet a new Washington Post poll finds that Trump is losing this battle very badly. Large majorities react negatively to Trump's claims about the Pope, and even more strikingly, big majorities approve of the Pope's message of peace, even though Trump is bombarding America with relentless lies and propaganda about both the Pope and the war. We talked to scholar-of-religion Sarah Posner, who writes for Talking Points Memo and hosts the Reign of Error podcast. We discuss why this polling is encouraging in non-obvious ways, why there's a schism between white Evangelicals and Catholics over Trump, how MAGA encourages Trump to imagine himself fighting a spiritual war against the Pope, and why that's a political disaster for him. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1. Strategic Importance of the Strait of Hormuz The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most critical maritime choke points in the world. Over 20% of the global oil supply passes through it daily, not including broader commercial shipping. Although often perceived as narrow and easily controlled, the strait is ~21 miles wide at its narrowest, making comprehensive surveillance extremely difficult. Large commercial vessels are confined to two-mile-wide shipping lanes due to depth requirements, making them predictable and vulnerable. 2. Vulnerability of Commercial and Naval Shipping Massive oil tankers and cargo ships: Cannot maneuver quickly or stop. Take miles to change course. Become “sitting ducks” within narrow sea lanes. The remaining waters outside the main lanes provide cover for hostile actors. 3. Iranian Asymmetric Naval Strategy Iran avoids direct, conventional naval confrontation with the U.S., which it previously lost decisively. Instead, it relies on small, fast, low-profile attack boats operated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). These boats: Are often smaller than recreational boats. Use multiple engines for high speed. Are armed with heavy machine guns, rockets, and anti-ship missiles. Operate in swarms from multiple directions. 4. Concealment and Tactical Advantage Iranian fast boats: Operate in shallow waters close to shore. Blend in with fishing vessels and heavy commercial traffic. Remain difficult to detect by radar until moments before attack. The Persian Gulf’s dense maritime traffic makes threat identification even harder. 5. Recent Military Developments The U.S. reportedly sank six Iranian fast attack boats attempting to harass vessels. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated: Iran typically deploys 20–40 such boats, but only six were observed in this clash. U.S. naval and air assets (Apache and Seahawk helicopters) are heavily positioned in the area. Iran’s naval capabilities have been significantly degraded. 6. U.S. Position and Policy The U.S. frames its role as defensive, focused on: Protecting commercial shipping. Ensuring freedom of navigation. Hundreds of ships from 87 different countries are currently backed up in the Persian Gulf. The U.S. has offered escorted passage through the strait. 7. Escalation Risks and Political Messaging President Trump issued strong warnings to Iran, threatening overwhelming retaliation if U.S.-flagged or escorted ships are attacked. Iran insists ships must coordinate with Tehran before transiting the strait. Recent incidents include: A South Korean vessel explosion and fire. A Panama-flag cargo ship engine fire. A UAE oil tanker reportedly targeted by an Iranian drone. These events raise questions about: The durability of a fragile ceasefire. Whether strikes could expand to Iranian territory or leadership targets. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Blaming our problems on the Moon is lunacy! Jessica Wynn illuminates the dark side of what we understand about our celestial neighbor on Skeptical Sunday.Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and a guest break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions. This time around, we're joined by writer and researcher Jessica Wynn!Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1320On This Week's Skeptical Sunday:The Moon is history's greatest scapegoat — blamed for madness, bad moods, crime, and chaos for millennia. But it's not the Moon driving the weirdness. It's priming and confirmation bias working in tandem: one loads the mental gun, the other pulls the trigger.Tides are real and genuinely impressive — the Moon pulls Earth's oceans into two massive bulges simultaneously, creating predictable highs and lows that surfers, sailors, and scientists all rely on. But "humans are 60% water" does not extend the logic. Tidal forces operate at planetary scale, not cellular.Lunar myths have proven remarkably adaptive. We replaced "the Moon causes lunacy" with "the Moon charges my crystals" — different language, same fundamental misfire. Pseudoscience doesn't disappear; it just rebrands to match the cultural moment.Large-scale studies across emergency rooms, psychiatric wards, police records, maternity wards, and veterinary clinics consistently find no lunar effect on behavior. When researchers control for variables properly, the Moon's behavioral influence vanishes entirely.The Moon's actual résumé is staggering enough without the mythology. It formed from a cataclysmic planetary collision, stabilized Earth's axial tilt, and made complex life possible — and understanding what it genuinely does is far more empowering than crediting it for your bad week.Connect with Jordan on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know!Connect with Jessica Wynn at Instagram (and Instagram!), and subscribe to her newsletters: Between the Lines and Where the Shadows Linger!And if you're still game to support us, please leave a review here — even one sentence helps! Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!Subscribe to our once-a-week Wee Bit Wiser newsletter today and start filling your Wednesdays with wisdom!Do you even Reddit, bro? Join us at r/JordanHarbinger!This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: Lufthansa Allegris: Go to Lufthansa.com and search for "Allegris" to learn moreGood Chop: $50 off + free shipping on first order: goodchop.com/podcast, code 50JORDANBooking.com: Book your getaway now with booking.comWayfair: Start renovating: wayfair.comThe President's Daily Brief: Listen here or wherever you find fine podcasts!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.