Podcasts about overstated

Atlanta leads the nation in canceled home purchase agreements, and the financial consequences for buyers are significant. Jeff Emalaba, founder and CEO of InvestFusion, joins Host Carol Morgan on the Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio podcast to explain how InvestFusion centralizes risk indicators into one platform, giving buyers a clearer understanding of whether a property aligns with their financial goals. The Real Cost of Hidden Property Defects in Today's Real Estate Market Emalaba founded InvestFusion after a personal loss on a duplex purchase in North Carolina. The property appeared financially sound, and the projected cash flow worked on paper. However, after committing nonrefundable due diligence fees, earnest money, appraisal costs and inspection expenses, significant undisclosed foundation issues surfaced. “That's when I realized that the biggest risk in real estate is not the market,” said Emalaba. “It's buyers going into contract blindly without realizing what is hidden beyond the surface.” Why Atlanta Ranks Among the Top Cities for Canceled Home Purchase Agreements According to a recent report from Redfin, more than 40,000 U.S. home purchase agreements were canceled in December — the highest level since 2017. That accounts for 16.3% of contracts nationwide. Atlanta's share of that activity is particularly notable. “Atlanta represents 22.5% of that ballpark number,” said Emalaba. “If we trickle down to Atlanta, that's more than $900 million in the metro area alone lost annually by buyers going under contract blindly.” These cancellations are not primarily driven by “cold feet” or fluctuating interest rates. Instead, many buyers uncover substantial issues during inspection that fundamentally alter the financial viability of the deal. In a market where buyers have more options and more leverage than in recent years, walking away has become more common. Top Real Estate Inspection Red Flags That Cause Deals to Fall Apart One of the key reasons contracts collapse in Atlanta's real estate market is the discovery of major property defects during the inspection period. Here are some red flags to look for: Structural and foundation problems Roofing HVAC Plumbing and electrical failures Permitting and code violations Flooding and drainage issues Title or boundary disputes Hazardous materials such as mold, asbestos or lead-based paint. “These are major things you don't see in drive-bys or by MLS photos,” said Emalaba. “You only discover this after going on inspection.” Many of these issues can cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair. When buyers realize the true scope of deferred maintenance or legal complications, the numbers often no longer make financial sense. As a result, they exit during due diligence — forfeiting time and, in some cases, money. Appraisal Gaps, Overstated Square Footage & Data Accuracy Risks While appraisal gaps dominated headlines during the pandemic-era bidding wars, today's risk profile has shifted. The issue is less about buyers offering above appraised value and more about inaccurate or incomplete data. Overstated square footage, outdated valuations and discrepancies between listing information and appraisal reports can cause lenders to reconsider financing. When the appraised value does not align with the contract price — or when square footage is misrepresented — deals often stall or collapse. Buyers must now evaluate whether a property's valuation truly supports long-term equity growth. Rising Home Insurance Costs Are Reshaping Atlanta Buying Decisions Insurance premiums have risen significantly since 2021, adding another layer of complexity to real estate transactions. Unexpected flood zone designations, prior insurance claims or property condition issues can dramatically increase monthly expenses. Emalaba said, “Nearly half of buyers now see that insurance costs heavily influence their purchase decisions.” When insurance is combined with property taxes, maintenance and financing, the total holding cost can quickly erode projected returns. Buyers are no longer asking only whether they can afford the mortgage payment. They are evaluating whether they can afford to hold the property long term. How InvestFusion Uses AI to Analyze Real Estate Risk Before You Sign a Contract Traditional due diligence is fragmented, requiring buyers to gather inspection reports, appraisals, title documents and insurance information from multiple sources — typically after funds have already been committed. InvestFusion consolidates that analysis into a single AI-powered platform. Emalaba said, “At a bare minimum, buyers are losing at least $7,000 or $8,000 when they go into those deals.” The platform analyzes more than 400 data points and generates a deal score in under a minute. It flags structural risks, zoning issues, flood exposure, valuation discrepancies and other material concerns before buyers put down nonrefundable funds. Before signing a contract, buyers should evaluate three primary factors: property condition risk, true valuation compared to the listing price and long-term holding costs. Keeping these considerations in mind helps ensure a property is not overpriced and that buyers fully understand insurance, tax and maintenance expenses. Tune in to the full episode to hear how InvestFusion brings greater transparency to residential real estate transactions. Visit www.InvestFusion.co to learn how the platform helps Atlanta buyers analyze property condition, true valuation and long-term risk before signing a contract. About InvestFusion InvestFusion is an AI-powered real estate intelligence platform designed to help buyers and investors identify risk before committing capital to a property. The platform combines property-level data, market analytics and predictive modeling to quantify potential exposure, uncover red flags and support more informed decision-making in complex housing markets. Designed for both new and experienced investors, InvestFusion aims to shift real estate evaluation away from fragmented, manual research toward structured, data-backed insight. Podcast Thanks Thank you to Denim Marketing for sponsoring Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio. Known as a trendsetter, Denim Marketing has been blogging since 2006 and podcasting since 2011. Contact them when you need quality, original content for social media, public relations, blogging, email marketing and promotions. A comfortable fit for companies of all shapes and sizes, Denim Marketing understands marketing strategies are not one-size-fits-all. The agency works with your company to create a perfectly tailored marketing strategy that will suit your needs and niche. Try Denim Marketing on for size by calling 770-383-3360 or by visiting www.DenimMarketing.com. About Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio, presented by Denim Marketing, highlights the movers and shakers in the Atlanta real estate industry – the home builders, developers, Realtors and suppliers working to provide the American dream for Atlantans. For more information on how you can be featured as a guest, contact Denim Marketing at 770-383-3360 or fill out the Atlanta Real Estate Forum contact form. Subscribe to the Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio podcast on iTunes, and if you like this week's show, be sure to rate it. Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio was recently honored on FeedSpot's Top 100 Atlanta Podcasts, ranking 16th overall and number one out of all ranked real estate podcasts. The post InvestFusion: AI-Powered Risk Analysis for Modern Real Estate Buyers appeared first on Atlanta Real Estate Forum.

Americans seem to be overreacting to concerns that European investors might divest from US assets, Bloomberg Intelligence chief European interest rate strategist Huw Worthington says. On this edition of the Macro Matters podcast, Worthington joins host Ira Jersey, BI's chief US rates strategist, to discuss global rates volatility and how European countries might be able to respond financially to recent policy initiatives. They also exchange views on upcoming central bank meetings relative to pricing.  The Macro Matters podcast is part of BI's FICC Focus series.

In December 2025's Recharge podcast, co-presenters Matt Fernley (Battery Materials Review) and Cormac O'Laoire (Electrios Energy) review the key developments shaping the battery materials and energy storage sectors as the industry heads into 2026, including: Why lithium demand forecasts may be overstated, including assumptions around lithium intensity per kWh and EV battery pack sizes EV battery size trends, affordability, and the divergence between Europe and China, including the role of SUVs, crossovers and EREVs What does NIO's decision to stop selling its semi-solid battery mean for the market? Battery pricing trends, BNEF pack cost benchmarks, and whether 2025 marks the trough for cell and pack costs Capacity utilisation, pricing pressure and why older gigafactories risk becoming uncompetitive BESS market dynamics, including strong cell shipments, slower installations, inventory build-ups and project delays

Show Highlights: Do 70–90% of M&A deals fail to deliver or destroy value? [01:36] The origin of the M&A value destruction stat. [04:53] Historical context and contemporary relevance of stats. [07:44] The sample and methodology of the 1999 KPMG study. [08:36] The late-1990s macroeconomic context of the U.S. [11:29] Asian and Russian economic volatility during the study. [14:37] Do the late-90s economic cycles shape M&A in ag today? [18:36] Three reasons for skepticism of the stat's applicability. [23:09] Objectively rethink widely accepted M&A success beliefs. [28:40] "Unlocking Shareholder Value: The Keys to Success" (KPMG, 1999): https://pages.stern.nyu.edu/~adamodar/pdfiles/eqnotes/KPMGM%26A.pdf If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.

Jacob Effron of Redpoint joins Nick to discuss How Model Progress Shifts the Goalposts, Why The Death of Software Is Overstated, and How to Diligence Hypergrowth Without Getting Burned. In this episode we cover: Investing in AI and Vertical Applications Model Layer Advancements and Future Milestones Challenges and Opportunities in Agentic AI Investing in Tooling and Middleware Product Market Fit and Defensibility in AI Applications Verticals with Real Product Market Fit The Evolution of AI Investing Metrics Future Trends in AI and Robotics Guest Links: Jacob's LinkedIn Jacob's X Redpoint's LinkedIn Redpoint's Website The host of The Full Ratchet is Nick Moran of New Stack Ventures, a venture capital firm committed to investing in founders outside of the Bay Area. We're proud to partner with Ramp, the modern finance automation platform. Book a demo and get $150—no strings attached.   Want to keep up to date with The Full Ratchet? Follow us on social. You can learn more about New Stack Ventures by visiting our LinkedIn and Twitter.

David Locke joined DJ & PK for his weekly visit to talk about the Utah Jazz and the impact of Walker Kessler's absence from the lineup. 

4 - Anti-Semitic attacks overstated by Australian Citizens Party

Some of the biggest names in the liberty movement recently gathered in Texas to celebrate the 90th birthday of Ron Paul, the former congressman and presidential candidate who has inspired so many to become interested in libertarianism. In this special episode of "Kibbe on Liberty," Matt Kibbe sits down with Tom Woods, TEXITcoin founder Bobby Gray, former Rep. Justin Amash (R/I/L-Mich.), and Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) to share their memories of Dr. Paul and the impact he has made on their lives. More than any other single individual, Ron Paul is responsible for creating a movement unlike any America has seen before. Even today, more than a decade after his last presidential run, when you ask someone why he cares about liberty, the answer is likely to be Ron Paul.

A hearing is underway in Oakland in a case which could affect Tesla's future in the state. It centers around the company's Autopilot function. KCBS Radio's Holly Quan spoke with Bloomberg's Madlin Mekelburg about the case.

CEO David Trainer sat down with Chuck Jaffe of Money Life to talk about our Danger Zone pick this week: 2Q25 Earnings: Where Street Estimates Are Too High & Who Should Miss.

Is the bill you got from the IRS wrong? What should you do? Find out now! Do you have unfiled tax returns that need filing? Call us at 866-8000-TAX or fill out the form at https://choicetaxrelief.com/If you want to see more…-YouTube:    / @loganallec  -Instagram: @ChoiceTaxRelief @LoganAllec -TikTok: @loganallec-Facebook: Choice Tax Relief // Logan Allec, CPA -Reddit: u/Logan_Allec

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the commonly held belief that protein is the most satiating macronutrient. It's an idea that shows up frequently in both clinical guidance and popular nutrition discourse: if you want to feel fuller, eat more protein. But how robust is that claim when you drill into the details of the evidence? To explore this, Alan and Danny examine the complex interplay between protein intake, satiety, and energy intake. We look at both historical and recent literature, including work from Kevin Hall's group, that raises important questions about how much of protein's supposed appetite-suppressing effect is due to the protein itself versus other influential variables—such as eating rate, food texture, and energy density. This is an important topic, not just for academic curiosity, but for its practical implications. If our assumptions about protein and satiety are oversimplified or overstated, that has knock-on effects for how we design diets aimed at appetite regulation, weight management, or obesity prevention. So whether you're a researcher, a clinician, or simply someone interested in understanding the mechanisms behind how we eat, this episode aims to provide clarity on where the science currently stands—and where it might be leading. Timestamps [03:18] The impact of protein on satiety [04:49] Historical context of protein and satiety [07:30] Mechanisms of protein-induced satiety [16:31] Research methods and measurements [21:39] Studies on protein and satiety [27:51] Analyzing specific studies [35:51] Understanding high protein meals and their effects [37:31] Acute vs. chronic effects of high protein intake [45:59] Other meal characteristics [53:21] Real-world implications of protein intake [01:01:19] Summarizing the impact of protein on satiety Related Resources Subscribe to Sigma Nutrition Premium Join the Sigma email newsletter for free Enroll in the next cohort of our Applied Nutrition Literacy course Go to episode page Related studies: Fazzino et al., Nature Food, volume 4, pages144–147 (2023) Weigle et al., Am J Clin Nutr. 2005 Jul;82(1):41-8 Smeets et al., J Nutr. 2008 Apr;138(4):698-702 Blatt et al., J Am Diet Assoc. 2011 Feb;111(2):290-4.

A new peer-reviewed study reveals nearly half of COVID-19 deaths were not caused by the virus but were misclassified, echoing similar findings in the UK and New York. Meanwhile, China's economy faces major turmoil with factory shutdowns, trade war setbacks, and a shifting global supply chain as companies like Apple move production to India—highlighting growing concerns over national security, economic stability, and U.S.-China relations.

The NIH procurement wing known as NITAAC, may want to borrow Mark Twain's famous saying, reports of my death are greatly exaggerated. NASA has extended its famous SEWP five contract, and the General Services Administration pauses a procurement oversight tool. These are the latest goings on in the federal procurement area. Federal News Network's executive editor Jason Miller is following all of these and joins me now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hey fitfam, welcome back to The Real Dish—where we keep it real about food, wellness, and living your best, most nourished life. I'm Chef Mareya, The Fit Foodie, and today we're diving into the sometimes ridiculous, often confusing world of TikTok food myths. We've all seen those 15-second videos that swear one food will change your life, heal your gut, cure your skin, and probably pay your bills. But what's the truth? Today, I'm breaking down 10 of the most viral food myths—and giving you the real deal on what's fact, what's fiction, and what's somewhere in between. Let's dig in! P.S. If this was helpful, would you share it with your friends and family? That's my virtual tip jar. :-) Chef Mareya Recomends For my favorite enzymes to help with digestion, try Masszymes from BIoptimzers and get an additional 10% off: https://bioptimizers.com/shop/products/masszymes I'm a big fan of electrolytes for hydration.  Try out Sports Research electrolytes, made with coconut water and no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners.  https://www.sportsresearch.com/products/hydrate-electrolytes-packets I've been loving the greens, too! https://www.sportsresearch.com/products/organic-greens Show notes: Myth #1: “Raw garlic on an empty stomach kills parasites and viruses.” Garlic is powerful, no doubt. It has antimicrobial and heart-loving properties—but eating it raw on an empty stomach like it's some ancient cure-all? That's a bit of a reach. What's real:
Allicin—the active compound in garlic—is legit, especially when garlic is crushed and left to sit for 10 minutes. But no, it's not going to wipe out every parasite or virus in your body. And your breath? Let's just say...social distancing might apply. Myth #2: “Seed oils are toxic and should be avoided at all costs.” This one has TikTok in a chokehold. While ultra-refined seed oils used in fast food and packaged snacks can contribute to inflammation, the word “toxic” is being thrown around way too loosely. What's real:
Balance is the name of the game. Minimize processed foods, yes. But there's no need to panic over a bit of sunflower oil in your hummus. Instead, prioritize whole, anti-inflammatory fats like olive oil, avocado, nuts, and seeds. Myth #3: “Fruit is bad because it's full of sugar.” Let me just say this loud for the people in the back: Fruit is NOT the enemy. What's real:
Fruit contains natural sugars, sure—but it also comes with fiber, water, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It supports gut health, brain function, and heart health. Want to balance your blood sugar? Pair fruit with protein or fat. Don't fear the banana. Myth #4: “Chlorophyll water clears your skin and makes you smell better.” It sounds magical. Glowy skin and minty freshness just by sipping green water? Mmm… not quite. What's real:
Chlorophyll has some antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but the effects from bottled chlorophyll water are minor at best. If it's part of your healthy habits and makes you drink more water, cool. Just don't expect it to replace your skincare or deodorant. Myth #5: “Celery juice cures everything.” It's green, it's trendy, and it had a serious moment on TikTok. But the cure-all claims? Overstated. What's real:
Celery juice is hydrating and contains some minerals, but there's zero scientific proof that it heals chronic illnesses or balances your gut on its own. Want the benefits of celery? Just eat the whole stalk—and include it in a nutrient-dense, fiber-rich diet. Myth #6: “The carnivore diet is the healthiest way to eat.” Meat-only diet = peak health? That's what some TikTokers claim. But science and long-term health markers say otherwise. What's real:
Eliminating ultra-processed foods can make any restrictive diet feel good at first. But going completely carnivore cuts out essential fiber, antioxidants, and plant compounds that support your gut, heart, and brain. Long-term? It can increase your risk of nutrient imbalances, inflammation, and chronic disease. Plants matter. Period. Myth #7: “You should never eat after 6 PM.” TikTok loves a strict rule. But food timing isn't one-size-fits-all. What's real:
Late-night eating can disrupt digestion and sleep if you're overeating or eating heavy, sugary foods. But your metabolism doesn't just shut off at 6 PM. Focus on what and how much you're eating, not just the clock. Myth #8: “Frozen fruits and veggies are less nutritious than fresh.” This one's an old myth that keeps getting recycled. TikTok just made it trend again. What's real:
Frozen produce is often flash-frozen at peak ripeness, locking in nutrients. In some cases, it can even be more nutritious than “fresh” produce that's been sitting in transit or on store shelves for days. Keep your freezer stocked—it's a budget-friendly nutrition hack. Myth #9: “You need to drink a gallon of water a day.” It sounds simple and motivational: a gallon a day keeps the toxins away. But is it necessary? What's real:
Hydration matters—but your needs vary by body size, activity, climate, and diet. Forcing a gallon of water can actually flush out electrolytes and leave you feeling off. Instead, drink consistently, watch your urine color (pale yellow is ideal), and eat hydrating foods like fruits and veggies. Myth #10: “Alkaline foods can change your body's pH and prevent disease.” The “alkaline diet” trend got a boost on TikTok with claims that it prevents cancer, cures inflammation, and balances your pH. Sounds great, right? What's real:
Your body tightly regulates blood pH on its own. You cannot change your body's overall pH through food. That said, alkaline foods like leafy greens, fruits, and veggies are still great for you—not because of their pH, but because they're packed with nutrients. So yes to greens, no to magical thinking. The Real Dish Takeaway Host:
Here's what I want you to walk away with: The truth isn't always trending—but it always works. Don't let a 15-second video override your common sense or your body's wisdom. Be curious, question boldly, and nourish yourself with balance, not extremes. If this episode cleared the confusion for you, share it with a friend who's been sucked into the TikTok rabbit hole. And DM me if there's a myth you want me to bust next. I'm here for it. Until next time, eat like you give a fork.
Love you, mean it. Bye!

Well it's probably a good thing we waited an extra day or two to record. Big news announced today as it pertains to the Penn State coaching staff. We get into it and share our thoughts on the returning coach. We'll also talk about Miles Goodman to the transfer portal, provide an update on the Happy Valley Hoopers, and catch you up on all things college basketball this postseason. Support the showFollow us on X and Instagram @ShotsGottaFall Like us on Facebook at Shots Gotta Fall: The Penn State Basketball PodcastSend us an e-mail Shotsgottafallpod@gmail.comRate and review us and subscribe/follow Shots Gotta Fall wherever you download us every week!

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo weigh in on the team's continuing pursuit of QB Aaron Rodgers in NFL free agency. Have GM Omar Khan, coach Mike Tomlin and top brass for team reached desperation for Rodgers to sign? Or is that need overstated? With Mason Rudolph already under contract and other free agent and trade options remaining, including Russell Wilson, Joe Flacco, Kirk Cousins and Joe Milton III? And with the likelihood of adding Rodgers eventually already fairly high, given his lack of other options? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders the upside of NFL draft QBs. Will names including Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart, Will Howard and Jalen Milroe ever be stars in the NFL? Or are they poised to be career backups? And how should that distinction figure into the Steelers' decision making? Then Chris and Ray end the show by talking safeties. How good will the Steelers' group -- led by Minkah Fitzpatrick and DeShon Elliott -- be after the signing of free agent Juan Thornhill?

In the final hour of Steiny and Guru, the guys speak with NBA columnist, K.C. Johnson who covered the Bulls during Jimmy Butler's tenure there. He believes Jimmy's baggage gets "overstated" at times. Steiny and Gu also get into how pivotal it will be for the young guys to adhere to adversity especially Kuminga when he returns from injury as the Dubs make a postseason push.

11.22.24 Hour 2 1:00- Ted Nguyen, covers the NFL for The Athletic, joins G&D to spin us around the NFL and gives us a national perspective on the Commanders-Cowboys game. 18:00- Have people been making too big of a deal about the Jayden Daniels struggles? 33:00- It's Friday! How are you Winning off the Field heading into the Weekend?

Mike and Charlie discussed the loss of Saints center Erik McCoy, who will miss the next six to eight weeks with a groin injury. Tulane head football coach Jon Sumrall recapped the Green Wave's 41-33 victory over the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns. Sumrall broke down Tulane's rushing attack, their performance on third downs, the Green Wave's penalty issues, and Rayshawn Pleasant's 94-yard house call. Kelsey Nicole Nelson, the Fox Sports host of "Listen In With KNN," joined Mike and Charlie to discuss Jayden Daniels' incredible performance on Monday Night Football.

This week, we're focusing on the world of football data and whether it's had the profound impact on the game — on and off the pitch — that everyone thinks it has.So, has data actually changed football?Host: Michael BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme Producer: Mike Stavrouhttps://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5756088/2024/09/11/how-has-data-changed-football/https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5697684/2024/09/03/football-analytics-uk-evolution/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we're focusing on the world of football data and whether it's had the profound impact on the game — on and off the pitch — that everyone thinks it has. So, has data actually changed football? Host: Michael Bailey With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme  Producer: Mike Stavrou https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5756088/2024/09/11/how-has-data-changed-football/ https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5697684/2024/09/03/football-analytics-uk-evolution/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

AI has been hailed as a transformative technology with McKinsey estimating it could add $26 trillion to the global economy. While many investors have already jumped on the AI bandwagon, not everyone agrees. Daron Acemoglu, Institute Professor at MIT and author of books including Why Nations Fail, takes a critical look at AI and explains why the economic and social benefits may have been overstated. He joins John Lee of Bloomberg Intelligence and Katia Dmitrieva of Bloomberg News on the Asia Centric podcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Wilbon and Tony Kornheiser discuss why passing was down in Week 1 in the NFL, USMNT naming Mauricio Pochettino as head coach, and the biggest takeaways from the Cubs and Dodgers matchup. All that and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CEO David Trainer sat down with Chuck Jaffe of Money Life to talk about our Danger Zone pick this week: The Most Overstated Street Earnings in 2Q24.

Mike and Bulldog discuss the Bills recent history of regular season success and if they are underrated

Economist Daniel Lacalle, professor of Global Economy at IE Business School in Madrid, offers his well-studied insights on the state of global inflation, how that inflation has become the accepted policy by central planners around the world, and gives us one of the best explanations about how governments benefit from this and use it to stay in power and control the masses. | Do you own precious metals you would rather not sell, but need access to cash? Get Started Here: https://www.moneymetals.com/gold-loan

Send us a Text Message.Could the US labor market be hiding a massive secret? Recent revisions suggest job growth might have been overstated by up to one million positions, casting serious doubt on the health of the economy. We'll scrutinize these alarming discrepancies and question the Bureau of Labor Statistics' reliability. This revelation could force the Federal Reserve to reconsider its approach to interest rates, potentially affecting everything from your mortgage to your job security. We'll also preview Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's upcoming speech at the Jackson Hole Symposium and its potential ramifications for monetary policy.Shifting gears, we turn our focus to a seismic shake-up in the oil and gas industry. With mergers and acquisitions soaring by 57% this year, major players like Chevron and ExxonMobil are driving a wave of consolidation and exploration investment. We'll dissect the strategic motivations behind these multibillion-dollar deals and explore the broader economic impacts. Additionally, we'll discuss Vice President Kamala Harris's proposal to raise corporate taxes and what it means for businesses and consumers alike. Don't miss our comprehensive analysis of these critical developments and their far-reaching implications.This episode is brought to you by Premier Ridge Capital.Sign Up for our Newsletter and get our FREE E-Book where you'll learn everything you need to know about creating financial freedom through multifamily syndication.Visit www.premierridgecapital.com now! This episode is brought to you by Premier Ridge Capital.Build Generational Wealth As A Passive Investor In Multifamily Real Estate Syndication!Visit www.premierridgecapital.com to find out more.Support the Show.

FOX Sports Radio Weekend host Martin Weiss is in for Rob, and he and Chris debate whether the upcoming NBA Draft is a microcosm for the ‘international takeover' currently going on in the NBA and tell us Angel Reese can wind up beating out Caitlin Clark for the WNBA Rookie of the Year award. Plus, FOX Sports Radio NBA insider Mark Medina swings by to discuss the role LeBron James played in JJ Redick getting hired as the team's next head coach, expectations for Redick with the club moving forward, how the club plans to build a championship-level roster around LeBron and Anthony Davis and much more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris and Rob discuss Kyrie Irving's assertion that there's added pressure playing for the Boston Celtics, explain why folks are more likely to remember Rory McIlroy's choke job at the US Open than Bryson DeChambeau's incredible shots to actually win it and tell us if Luka Doncic can win the NBA Finals MVP if the Dallas Mavericks wind up losing the series. Plus, the guys take a trip out to Shekel City for Rob's nightly bets.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

McDonald's CEO has something to say about prices as customers share posts on social media. AP correspondent Jennifer King reports.

Jeremy Schwartz, global chief investment officer at WisdomTree, says that despite current headlines, the economy will have a higher real growth rate, with productivity improved by technological advances and continued full employment, which should help the economy avoid recession. He notes that inflation rates may not be quite as high as they seem, saying that inflation is below official government levels when looked at in more updated, modern ways to evaluate consumer prices, noting that shelter costs are dramatically overstated in traditional measures, skewing the numbers. All of this creates a positive long-term outlook, Schwartz said. Adam Turnquist, chief technical strategist at LPL Financial, says the market's technical picture suggests a downturn in the offing, but likely nothing beyond a 5 percent decline before the market resumes pursuit of record highs. Jonathan Mondillo, head of North American fixed income for abrdn says that record discount levels for municipal bond closed-end funds, coupled with attractive yields on those funds, are creating real opportunities for income investors. In the Market Call, Adam Peck of Riverwater Partners talks about putting a social investment lens over a market view to select stocks.

Steve Gruber discusses news and headlines

In this weeks Cannabis News we cover the following Stories: Weed legal in Germany – what's happening right now | Marijuana Rolling Paper Company Seeks Content Creator To 'Get Paid To Smoke Weed' For $70,420 Salary | Study Shows Colorado Marijuana Products Are Overstating THC Potency, With Researcher Citing Possible 'Lab Fraud' | German health minister fights to prevent cannabis legalisation's indefinite delay | Mother says package presenting cannabis like 'treat' put children in hospital | Man admits fatal stabbing in Wolverhampton cannabis farm raid |  Come and join in the discussion about any of these news articles on our cannabis growing forum, Discord server, or any of your favourite social networks. Visit our website for links.  Website: https://highonhomegrown.com Discord: https://discord.gg/sqYGkF4xyQ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/highonhomegrown Thank you for downloading and listening to our cannabis podcast! I hope you enjoy this episode.

Luc Schuster, executive director of the Boston Indicators Research Center at the Boston Foundation, argues everyone is making a bigger deal out of this law than it needs to be. He joined WBUR's Morning Edition host Rupa Shenoy to explain why. 

A recent move to consolidate two homes, has resulted in the need to sell a lot of photographic equipment, many of it duplicates between the two homes. I thought this was be easy, it wasn't.

Job Market Realities: Unmasking the Inflated Employment Figures Previous U.S. jobs reports have come under scrutiny, revealing a significant issue. The government quietly adjusted the numbers, showing the elimination of 439,000 jobs through November 2023, as per the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This adjustment implies that the initial jobs figures were overstated by 439,000 positions, indicating that the job market may not be as robust as initially portrayed. With these revised numbers, the total percentage of jobs created by the government in the past year is even higher than initially reported, fueled by increased government hiring. The accuracy of U.S. jobs reports is crucial, impacting financial markets, U.S. Treasury yields, and influencing the Federal Reserve's decisions on interest rate adjustments. These factors, in turn, have substantial consequences for U.S. consumers' financial well-being. David Rosenberg, founder of Rosenberg Research Associates, highlighted the need to reconsider reliance on payroll data in light of these revisions. According to his calculations, the downward revisions amounted to an "epic 443,000," with over 40% of payroll growth in 2023 attributed to the BLS's 'Birth-Death' model, which he characterized as a "fairy tale" used to estimate job reports. Examining December 2023, the government sector continued to play a significant role in job creation, adding 52,000 jobs. The three-month average for government job creation reached 50,000 per month, prompting questions about the sustainability of this trend. However, challenges extend beyond government jobs, as the health care and social assistance sector, heavily reliant on government spending, created about 59,000 jobs in the same period. This issue of overstated job numbers is not novel, with previous revisions in August 2023 indicating a net overstatement of U.S. job growth by 306,000 jobs for the 12 months through March 2023. This adjustment lowered private sector job creation by 358,000 while increasing government payrolls by 52,000. The concerns are not isolated incidents, as the Philadelphia Federal Reserve Bank, in December 2022, suggested an overreporting of job growth by 1.1 million in the second quarter of that year. Even statements from political figures have faced scrutiny, as President Biden's claims of creating 13 million to 14 million jobs have been questioned. Economists and analysts argue that these figures include jobs recovered post-pandemic shutdowns, painting a less impressive picture when considering the net job creation. A notable sector affected is manufacturing, with a mere 6,000 jobs created in December 2023. The manufacturing sector's contraction for 14 consecutive months is a concerning trend as it has a ripple effect across various industries. Moreover, the U.S. labor force participation is at a historically low 62.5%, as reported by Edward Lawrence. The December jobs report revealed 683,000 workers dropping out of the labor force, and a record 8.69 million people holding multiple jobs to cope with a cumulative 17.4% inflation rate under the current administration. These indicators point towards a challenging economic landscape, underscoring the need for a comprehensive examination of job data and its implications for the overall health of the U.S. economy.  Original Source: https://realnewsnow.com/439k-jobs-overstated-in-us-employment-reports/ Follow RNN on Social Media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RealNewsNowApp/ X Twitter: https://twitter.com/realnewsapp Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realnews/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@realnewsnowapp Truth Social: https://truthsocial.com/@RealNews  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Four Part Episode Part 1: Dr. Lucas (@talophex) on Biden's health Part 2: The Winner (@thewinner2875) and Ben Freeman (@benwfreeman1) on whether Vivek Ramaswamy is worth buying as a hedge Part 3: Mick Bransfield (@mickbransfield) on the CFTC's decision to reject Kalshi's election contracts Part 4: Nathan Young (@nathanpyoung) on religion and prediction markets  Timestamps 5:08: Interview with Lucas begins 6:39: Biden's cognitive decline 8:49: Biden's physical health 10:20: Biden's aneurysms 13:18: Biden's capacity to run a presidential campaign 15:19: Biden's risk of vaccine injury 18:45: How to trade on Biden's health on Polymarket 20:46: Segment on Ramaswamy begins 21:46: Ben Freeman on fading the online candidate 23:22: Segment on CFTC's Kalshi decision begins 24:21: Commissioner Mersinger's dissent 25:54: State laws on political betting 27:40: Why the CFTC is not main the adversary of political betting 28:14: Legality of the Iowa Electronic Markets 29:47: Kalshi's tried to find a shortcut 30:50: Excerpt of Chougule's speech on black markets 32:22: Segment with Nathan Young begins 32:37: How religion made Young interested in prediction markets 33:10: Forecasters were ahead of the curve on COVID 34:02: Similarities between the rationality and religious communities 38:05: Religious attitudes toward gambling in the UK 40:56: America's religious opposition to political betting Follow Star Spangled Gamblers on Twitter @ssgamblers.

-7 straight years of no bowl games is embarrassing and there is no defense of it…however…making a bowl game feels a lot emptier than it used to…right?-Sip called Jake about this yesterday so let's see why he was so curious about it….Show sponsored by GANA TRUCKINGAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the Infinite Wealth Podcast, hosts Cameron and Anthony debunk the top myths surrounding the Infinite Banking Concept. As social media and those who do not know the Infinite Banking Concept spread misinformation about Infinite Banking, Cameron and Anthony set the record straight on the common misconceptions surrounding this financial strategy. From the belief that whole life is a terrible investment to the misconception about accessing cash value, the hosts unpack the myths and offer clarity to help listeners navigate the truths behind the infinite banking concept. **3 Key Lessons:** Whole Life Insurance Is Not an Investment: Cameron and Anthony emphasize that whole life insurance serves as a cash management tool rather than an investment. They stress the importance of understanding the characteristics of certainty, safety, and control in whole life insurance.  Beware of Overstated or Underestimated Rate of Return: The hosts address the misconception surrounding the rate of return on a policy and caution against exaggerated claims. They explain the guaranteed rate and the impact of dividends on the policy's growth, offering a balanced perspective on the potential rate of return.  Accessing Cash Value and Trusting Mutual Companies: Cameron and Anthony dispel the myths related to accessing cash value and the belief that insurance companies will steal cash value upon death. They underline the accessibility of cash value and emphasize the collaborative nature of mutual insurance companies.   Resources: Schedule your 15-minute call with Anthony or Cameron here: http://bit.ly/iwc15podcast Check our online course at www.InfiniteWealthCourse.com Buy Becoming Your Own Banker by R. Nelson Nash http://bit.ly/BYOBbookIWC 

Hello Rank Squad!It's time for the last Champions League Takeaway of 2023, and the last ever one discussing the group stages as we know them, with the format set to change next year. And there's plenty to get through!We start with Wednesday's action, with three big takeaways on whether Newcastle were right to throw caution to the wind, why PSG are struggling to score goals right now, and how Barcelona's crisis meter is growing dangerously close to explosion, before rounding up the rest of the action.Then in Part Two, we take a look at Tuesday – talking Manchester United's exit and whether the 'true power' of the Premier League is overstated, why Real Madrid's desire not to lose is so impressive, and how a Benfica castoff helped them find a backbone, and then run through everything else that happened too.It's Ranks! And remember, if you'd like more from the Rank Squad, including extra podcasts every Monday and Friday (including our weekly Postbox taking a look at the whole weekend of football) and access to our brilliant Discord community, then why not join us here on Patreon?

Hello Rank Squad!It's time for the last Champions League Takeaway of 2023, and the last ever one discussing the group stages as we know them, with the format set to change next year. And there's plenty to get through!We start with Wednesday's action, with three big takeaways on whether Newcastle were right to throw caution to the wind, why PSG are struggling to score goals right now, and how Barcelona's crisis meter is growing dangerously close to explosion, before rounding up the rest of the action.Then in Part Two, we take a look at Tuesday – talking Manchester United's exit and whether the 'true power' of the Premier League is overstated, why Real Madrid's desire not to lose is so impressive, and how a Benfica castoff helped them find a backbone, and then run through everything else that happened too.It's Ranks!And remember, if you'd like more from the Rank Squad, including extra podcasts every Monday and Friday (including our weekly Postbox taking a look at the whole weekend of football) and access to our brilliant Discord community, then why not join us here on Patreon?

MMA Fighting's José Youngs, Eric Jackman, Jed K. Meshew, and E. Casey Leydon join forces to preview the super middleweight title fight between undisputed kingpin Canelo Alvarez and the surging Jermell Charlo. Is the Charlo moving up two weight classes going to play a factor against the hard hitting Alvarez? Is the Mexican superstar really on the decline or are fans looking too much into his last performance? These are just some of the questions the three will answer for you ahead of the catchweight fight inside the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic Follow Jed K. Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

MMA Fighting's José Youngs, Eric Jackman, Jed K. Meshew, and E. Casey Leydon join forces to preview the super middleweight title fight between undisputed kingpin Canelo Alvarez and the surging Jermell Charlo. Is the Charlo moving up two weight classes going to play a factor against the hard hitting Alvarez? Is the Mexican superstar really on the decline or are fans looking too much into his last performance? These are just some of the questions the three will answer for you ahead of the catchweight fight inside the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic Follow Jed K. Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

MMA Fighting's José Youngs, Eric Jackman, Jed K. Meshew, and E. Casey Leydon join forces to preview the super middleweight title fight between undisputed kingpin Canelo Alvarez and the surging Jermell Charlo. Is the Charlo moving up two weight classes going to play a factor against the hard hitting Alvarez? Is the Mexican superstar really on the decline or are fans looking too much into his last performance? These are just some of the questions the three will answer for you ahead of the catchweight fight inside the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic Follow Jed K. Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For additional notes and resources check out Douglas' website.I. THESISJesus was a zealot, advocating violence to overthrow the occupying Romans as well as the corrupt priesthood.For Jesus, the Kingdom of God is very much of this world [144]. John 18:36 has been totally misunderstood [117]. The kingdom is political.Jesus intended that the twelve tribes be reconstituted for a single purpose: war [123].Jesus was a violent man. The God of violence is “the only God that Jesus knew and the sole God he worshipped” [122]. However, later Aslan seems to backtrack: “Nor can Jesus be labeled a violent revolutionary bent on armed rebellion…” [79].Yet Jesus failed to reestablish nation of Israel [19].The church changed the true Jesus into a more heavenly figure with merely otherworldly interests. They “transformed Jesus from a revolutionary zealot to a Romanized demigod, from a man who tried and failed to free the Jews from Roman oppression to a celestial being wholly uninterested in anyearthly matter” [171]. The apostle Paul was the leader of this reinterpretation. “[Paul's] conception of Jesus as Christ would have been shocking and plainly heretical, which is why, around 57 C.E., James and the apostles demand that Paul come to Jerusalem to answer for his deviant teachings” [190]. The early church followed suit, and replaced the zealot Jesus with a heavenly figure [144], putting Paul's letters into the N.T. Today we have the wrong N.T., thanks to Paul's influence [215].Yet the Messiah was to be the Prince of Peace. "He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore" (Isa 2:4). (Joel 3:10 – preparation for war.) "He will judge between many peoples and will settle disputes for strong nations far and wide. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore" (Mic 4:3).How would the church have survived through 60 years of disillusionment, given they knew Jesus' mission was a failure?In short, Jesus was a revolutionary zealot. Not just a radical man with an amazingly spiritual message, but a violent encourager of murder, rioting, and violent takeover.II. STRENGTHS & INSIGHTSStyleHis no-nonsense approach (despite the many erroneous claims) leaves no doubt as to where the author stands. I find this preferable to the ambling, highly qualified language of many religious writers.Aslan uses highly florid language, which makes reading him rather enjoyable -- provided the reader recognizes the many rare words he uses.Historical backgroundGood job describing various sects of the Jews and zealots and pseudo-messiahs.Great analysis of the working relationship between Pilate and Caiaphas.Nice explanation of the origins and thinking of the Samaritans.Historical insightPoor farmers of Galilee subjected to indignity of turning over earnings to rapacious priests! [92]Demolishes the Roman Catholic notions of the virginity of Mary and the papacy of Peter [35].Helpful reminder that the Temple served as a bank [7].Unlike other itinerant wonder-workers in the ancient world, Jesus healed gratis [103].The Romans' victory over Israel in the First Jewish War (66-70 AD) wasn't merely over the Jews, but over their god.John the Baptist's popularity perhaps increased through his not relying on his priestly privileges [82]. (John was a Levite, born to Levite parents -- see Luke 1.)Aslan admits that it is more likely the Gnostics borrowed from Christianity when they constructed their esoteric doctrine and myths, rather than the other way around [261].The belief in a dying and rising messiah did not exist in Judaism [165]. (Right--but that doesn't mean the Messiah couldn't die or rise! What about Isa 53?)Things you may want to knowInteresting parallels between Jesus' Transfiguration and Moses' ascent on the mountain with his three companions [131].Cicero: “barbarian superstitions” of monotheism. Tacitus: “while they permit all that we abhor.”Josephus notes 24 sects in and around Jerusalem. And he calls Annas (Ananus) “the great hoarder of money” [198-199].Bible difficultiesCritics keep us on our toes!Two examples: Philip's wife is Salome, not Herodias. A solution? Also, the well-known difficulties surrounding Luke's census of Quirinius [30].III. APPROACHArguments from silenceJohn the Baptist doesn't realize who Jesus is in Mark 1. This means that the story has been jazzed up in the other gospel accounts [87].There is no cliff in Nazareth over which to push Jesus. Aslan is saying that since he does not think there is such a cliff in Nazareth, it didn't exist. But topography can change. Besides, I have seen such a precipice in Nazareth.The nighttime trial of the Sanhedrin was illegal -- therefore it didn't take place. [157]. Yet the Sanhedrin felt urgency in dealing with this situation before Passover.Barabbas couldn't have been released because the custom is “nonsensical” [149]. Yet Pilate negotiates with the crowd over Jesus' possible release. Why would such a custom contradict what we know of Pilate?Speculation“So when Stephen saw the gaggle of hirsute men and ragged women huddled beneath a portico in the Temple's outer court—simple provincials who had sold their possessions and given the proceeds to the poor….—he probably did not pay much attention at first” [164].Paul wasn't asked by the high priest to hunt down Christians… [183] Yet by Paul's own admission (Acts 22:4-5), “I persecuted the followers of this Way to their death, arresting both men and women and throwing them into prison, as the high priest and all the Council can themselves testify. I even obtained letters from them to their associates in Damascus, and went there to bring these people as prisoners to Jerusalem to be punished.”Fondness for quoting liberals at far end of theological spectrum.Calling into question uncontroversial points, e.g. that Acts is part 2 of Luke [167].Leading statements: Jesus' brothers named after great heroes of Judaism (implying a radical revolutionary tendency ran in the family) [230].Shock statements that aren't quite true… but are later clarified, once the shock has been felt -- usually a few paragraphs later.E.g. the Romans walking up cliff side of Masada, “shields up, swords drawn” – as Aslan makes clear, he well knows it took many weeks for the Romans to advance up that side of the mountain [57].Or that the meeting between Pilate and Jesus is ludicrous…. A reasonable argument can be made for it having happened. Aslan claims the “trial” before Pilate “beggars the imagination” and is “pure legend” [148]. There was no “trial” before Pilate [241]. Yet the gospels never say there was a trial. Further, while at first Aslan mocks the idea, later on he states that for a potential political prisoner, Pilate might well have made time to see him -- and John Meier makes a compelling case for the position [244]!Assertions without proofJesus ChristJesus could not have understood the "Son of Man" as a divine figure (as in 4 Ezra) [144]. But what about Daniel 7?Mark 9 tells us that Jesus' transfiguration affected only his clothes [251] (which it doesn't) -- therefore his body (unlike Moses' -- Exod 34) wasn't glowing.There are no OT messianic prophecies that say the Messiah will do miracles [248]. Really?! How about Isaiah 42, 60, etc?More than a few biblical scholars have openly labeled Jesus a magician [108-109]. I know of only one (Morton Smith).All the miracle stories of Jesus have been embellished [104].Daniel's Anointed One isn't killed (Dan 9:26), but only cut off [166]. Yet it's not clear whether "cut off" implies death, so there's no room for dogmatism here.Jesus didn't stay in the desert for a time of testing, but in order to spend time learning from John the Baptist [89].Apostles and other leadersMatthew isn't Levi [97]. Yet two names were common (e.g. Simon Peter, John Mark).Jesus recruited from among “the fishing village's disaffected youth” [96]. But why can't Simon and Andrew be the same age as Jesus? (Rob Bell wants them to be teenagers, but he goes too far.)Few if any of the apostles agreed that Paul was a disciple [184-185].Paul never recounts his Damascus Road experience, which is a fabrication of Luke [184]. Yet see Acts 22. The fact that the three accounts (Acts 9, 22, 26) have minor differences suggests Luke wasn't making up the story, nor was he concerned to rewrite it to make it less problematic.None of the apostles spoke Greek [193]. Jesus and his disciples were illiterate peasants [203, 226]. Aslan should read Alan Millard's Reading and Writing in the Time of Jesus.The Jerusalem Christians didn't evangelize – they just blended in [263]. Yet Acts 4, 5, 12!James took no baths [197].The church in Rome fell under authority of the Jerusalem church [203].Some assertions have weak proof, e.g. that Stephen led the independent Hellenistic community [181], and that the Hellenists held that Jesus came not to fulfill the law, but to abolish it (!). Or that the Church of Jerusalem was demolished in 70 AD [150, 212]. James and the Jerusalem Christians stayed in Jerusalem, awaiting coming of the Lord, and so were killed by Titus' army. But that would mean that they ignored Jesus' prophecy [Luke 21:20].IV. TONEMocking, SarcasticStephen's “long and rambling diatribe” [168].Luke is Paul's sycophant [184-185].On 500 soldiers accompanying the prisoner Paul: “This is absurd and can be flatly ignored” [266]. But there's a plot afoot involving 40 men determined to kill Paul. The conspirators are armed, armed disturbances were somewhat common in Palestine, and the Romans know it. What number of soldiers does Aslan think the officer should have dispatched: 40? 100? 150? Might not the number of conspirators have been snowballing? Is this not a case of better safe than sorry?Reactionary comments -- which are frequently overstatements“With the help of his disciples he blocks the entrance to the courtyard, forbidding anyone carrying goods for sale or trade from entering the Temple. Then, as the crowd of vendors, worshippers, priests, and curious onlookers scramble over the scattered detritus, as a stampede of frightened animals, chased by their panicked owners, rushes headlong out of the Temple gates and into the choked streets of Jerusalem, as a corps of Roman guards and heavily armed Temple police blitz through the courtyard looking to arrest whoever is responsible for this mayhem, there stands Jesus, according to the gospels, aloof, seemingly unperturbed, crying out over the din: ‘It is written, “My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations, but you have made it a den of thieves.”'” [74-75]Cleansing of temple caused a “riot” in the Court of the Gentiles [147].Jesus' apostolic band was “armed with swords” [146]. But there were only 2, and Jesus discouraged their use – hence the unanimous pacifism of the early church.The “brief but bloody tussle” although two swords weren't enough [78].“Thus, on a bald hill covered in crosses, beset by moans of agony from hundreds of dying criminals, as a murder of crows circled eagerly over his head waiting for him to breathe his last…” [159]Disunity and strife suppressedThe early Christians were fearful of John the Baptist's continuing influence: “frantic attempt to reduce John's significance” – and the truth that “Jesus very likely began his ministry as just another of his disciples” [89].In Acts Luke “paints a picture of perfect harmony between Paul and the council's members…” [191]Gal 2:11 = “fierce public feud” [266]– yet no evidence Peter lashed out in return, or rejected Paul's correction.Superior attitudeEven in the vocabulary: 98 lucubration; 108 Lugdunum (ancient Lyon)As though this were his own insight: “To the Jews, a crucified Messiah was nothing less than a contradiction in terms. The very fact of his crucifixion annulled his messianic claims” [178]. Credit belongs to Paul more than to Aslan. Or the observation that wisdom is personified in Wisdom of Solomon as a woman (Sophia), in order to better connect with those with a Greek philosophical background [179]. But this is in Proverbs, and is well known to those who read the Bible.“Two decades of scholarly research” [xx] – perhaps absorbed from the ultraliberal institutions where he did his study? (Harvard University, U Cal Santa Barbara, Santa Clara University -- Jesuit)Negative feelingPalpable hostility towards biblical Christians. Aslan admits his anger – “I angrily discarded my faith as if it were a costly forgery….” [xix].Paul's anger at James and the original apostles “seeps like poison through the pages of his later epistles” [207].One wonders if Aslan has projected his own negative emotions onto Paul!V. ERRORSWell over 100, not even counting all the mistakes highlighted in other sections of this podcast!Life of JesusPhil 2:7 doesn't support the incarnation – because Jesus is one of God's first creations, the "firstborn" [189]. But what about Ps 89:27? "And I will appoint him to be my firstborn, the most exalted of the kings of the earth."The incarnation is rejected [88], as well as the divinity of Christ. But what about Mal 3, Ezek 34, Ps 110, and many other passages?Jesus was a tekton (builder, carpenter, mason...) only in Mark 6:3 [34]. Aslan has forgotten Matt 13:55.“He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire” suggests arson [89].Aslan assumes "the Kingdom of God is at hand" means that the end of world is near [80] –a common mistake among those unfamiliar with the already/not yet of Christian theology.The Parable of the Sower is mainly anticlerical [101]. Yet the parable is about loving one's neighbor.The Temple in Jesus' time was 500m x 300m – this was the complex, not the temple proper. (To be fair, in John's gospel, however, sometimes the entire Temple Mount complex is referred to as the temple.)Jesus was joking when he told the leper to go show himself to the priest, since the leprosy was gone. Aslan seems to have misunderstood Lev 14 [112].There would have been no need for a large band of soldiers to snatch Jesus -- yet later Aslan admits a sizeable crowd went to Gethsemane to arrest Jesus [153]! He seems to be changing his mind, or rethinking, even as he is writing his book.After confessing he's the Messiah, Jesus then muddies everything by identifying himself with the Son of Man in Daniel (Mark 14:62) [144]. Aslan seems unable to grasp the two sides of the Messiah, Lion and Lamb (Rev 5) -- the same mistake so many of Jesus' Jewish contemporaries made.When the crowd (manipulated by Annas and Caiaphas) is manipulating Pilate – “We have no king but Caesar!” -- Aslan claims they couldn't have said that [152].Pilate is portrayed as a righteous but weak-willed man in the gospels [47]! He is increasingly exonerated in the gospels [151]. He tries to save Jesus because he thinks he may be the Son of God (!) [152]The crucifixion required three iron spikes [159]. Actually, the skeletal evidence of crucified persons indicates the Romans used four nails.Crucified people would hang on the cross for hours [159]. Actually, days were a more common.Mark wasn't interested in Jesus' resurrection [29]. Really? What about Jesus' predictions of his resurrection, several of which Mark records?Our author claims the series: Last Supper—Betrayal—Arrest—Sanhedrin—Herod & Pilate—Cross—Burial—Resurrection is what it is for liturgical reasons [153-154]. But what else could it be if Jesus was betrayed?Re: Luke 24:44-46 – there isn't a single line of scripture on the suffering, death, and resurrection on the third day of the Messiah [177].  But the resurrection is prefigured in Dan 6; Gen 22; Ps 16; Ezek 37 and more clearly identified in Dan 12 and the DSS 4Q521.The apostlesPaul was uninterested in the words of Jesus [187]. Common claim. What about Acts 20:35? 1 Cor 11? Quite a few allusions to Jesus' words?James forces Paul to (hypocritically) back down from his anti-Torah position, taking an oath and joining others in this vow (Acts 21:23)….[195-197, 208-209]. But what about 1 Cor 9:20? "To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law." Besides, Paul has a positive view of the law (read Romans). He argues that the gospel is for the Jew first, then the Gentile (Rom 1:16) – and this is in one of the letters Aslan agrees Paul actually wrote. Further, Paul's custom was to share the gospel with the Jews, through speaking invitations at synagogues… When he wore out his welcome, then he turned to the Gentiles. If he were as anti-Torah as Aslan insinuates, it is doubtful he would ever be invited back for a second lesson!Paul disagrees with James over salvation [206]. They use the same passages to prove opposite things (James 2; Romans 4). But works and faith are two sides of a coin. Aslan's position is based on an old and tired argument. Paul required nothing for salvation but faith in Christ [215]. Aslan claims Rom 10:13 contradicts Matt 7:21 [187].Aslan misses Paul's point in 2 Cor – which he calls "Corinthians" (proofreader lapse?) – when he makes Paul call the Jerusalem apostles "servants of Satan…" [192]. But Paul's opponents valued prestige, comfort, honor; they did not suffer. The "super-apostles" Paul excoriates cannot be the Jerusalem apostles, who it seems were nearly as poor as Paul!Re: Paul's arrest in Jerusalem: He is mistaken for the Egyptian – and this is the only reason he was taken into custody by the Romans [194-195]. But Paul denied being this person, and the text makes it clear that once corrected the commander still decides to refer the case up the ladder of command (Acts 21:39).After his meeting with the Jewish leaders in Acts 28, "Paul vowed from that moment on to preach to none but the gentiles, ‘for they will listen' (Acts 28:26-29)” [196]. Yet the text indicates a mixed reaction -- some Jews were persuaded by Paul. True, in Acts 28:28 Paul says he will focus on the Gentiles, but not only the Gentiles. In fact, this isn't a change of missionary strategy for Paul, since that has been his method all along: first the Jew, then the Gentile...James (presumably unlike Paul, who cared little about earthly matters) truly cares for the poor [272]. What? Gal 2:10! 2 Cor 8-9!Simon Peter “swore he witnessed the resurrection with his own eyes, as did many others among them…" [156]. This is false. There were no eyewitnesses of the resurrection, unless the Roman soldiers were able to see what was happening (which seems unlikely). Many witnessed Jesus after the resurrection, however.Later ChristianityAslan confuses the Circumcision Party (as in Titus 1 and Acts 15) and Jewish Christianity [186].James loses credibility to Paul because of the nascent doctrine of the virginity of Mary (James being Jesus' brother) [202]. An interesting possibility, and there may be some truth in it, but biblical Christians accord equal respect -- and obedience -- to the teaching of both James and Paul.The Ebionite movement continuing to teach the theology of James [272]. Yet biblical scholars note that this movement wasn't really a Christian movement, since they rejected Christ's divinity. In Zealot Aslan seems to believe that James believed in the Second Coming of his brother -- in contradiction to the Ebionites.Judaean Christians shared with none but their fellow Jews. Love thy neighbor means one's fellow Jew [121]. But what about Luke 23:34, Luke 10:25-37? Matthew 5:38-48?Ancient languagesGreek errors: Matt 11:12 – the kingdom “operates by force” [251]. In Acts 15, Aslan has krino mean “I decree” rather than "It is my judgment" [270]. Overstated! He spells basileus (king) as "Baselius" [234].Hebrew: He denies that in Isa 7:14 'almah is virgin. Yet the point is that that was how the ancient Jews understood it, as evidenced in the LXX, where 'almah is rendered parthenos. Aslan writes Xristos and Yesus ha Xristos – confusing the two languages!Latin: dinarii should be denarii. Aslan claims Pilatus means “skilled with the javelin” [46] -- yet at most this means "armed with a javelin."Other: the kingdom of Medea [139] should be Media.Dating & ChronologyPaul's conversion 37 AD [265] (more like 32 or 33 – which Aslan admits, citing Martin Hengel).Phil about 49 AD [170 AD]. But Paul hadn't even visited Corinth that early. Philippi wasn't a city visited on the First Missionary Journey!1 Cor written 50 AD [175]. This is too early -- See the Gallio Inscription.Peter and Paul were executed 66 AD [196]. He should have given a range of acceptable dates, since the persecution began in 64, and Nero died in 68.All four the gospels were written after 70 AD [75]. But most scholars put Mark c.65 AD. (E.g., the fire and other details of 70 AD are missing in the prophecy of Mark 13.)Paul wrote only 7 letters….. [264]Aslan makes it sounds like Nero sends Vespasian after Masada. (I had to read this section three times to figure out what was going on!) Simple proof-reading would have caught that [60-61].Gospel of Thomas in late 1st or early 2nd century. More likely dates to the late 2nd C.Eusebius' church history Aslan puts in the 3rd C – yet it was probably written in the 320s. All scholars consider his Historia Ecclesiae a 4th-century work.The Sepphoris synagogue(s) date to the 5th and 6th century. Yet Aslan implies that the Byzantine period synagogue was there in the 1st century [38]. Aslan fails to mention that, as he paints a picture of cosmopolitan and wordly Jews.Jesus had a two-year ministry. John's gospel suggests a ministry of 3 or 3.5 years.Old Testament / Judaism errorsAslan mocks the notion that the law was given through angels, as Stephen claims in Acts 7 [168] Later, however, he but admits the idea does come into Judaism (as we see in Gal 3:19).Passover celebration is mainly a political act [144]. While there are political nuances, it was far more than a mere political statement.Aslan uncritically accepts the tradition that when serving in the Holy of Holies the high priest was tied to a rope, in case he died while on duty [9] , without letting the reader know that this is in doubt. The tradition might be true, but it is a mistake to present a possibility as a fact.His view of the Conquest is extreme (utter annihilation) [15]. The O.T. depicts a replacement of the Canaanite population through war, flight, conversion, and intermarriage.David spoke about himself in Ps 16, not the Messiah [166-167]. Yet that doesn't mean the application is wrong. In general, the early Christians used texts to prove Jesus was the Christ that were widely accepted in Judaism.VI. [OUTLANDISH] QUOTESPaul insists he is far superior to all the other apostles [185]. “Simply put, Paul does not consider himself the thirteenth apostle. He thinks he is the first" [186].About the Gospels: “Factual accuracy was irrelevant. What mattered was Christology, not history” [154]. Yet Christianity is a historical religion—a faith anchored in history. If God did not visit our world, if Jesus did not take our sins on the Cross and rise from the dead, then our faith is vain.“Simon Peter was “displaying the reckless confidence of one uninitiated in the scriptures” [166]. Yet I'm not so sure those lacking training would have been as confident as Simon Peter. After all, he was learned in that he had received three years of training from the best teacher on earth -- far better than the typical course of being a disciple to a rabbi.“Paul had no idea who the living Jesus was, nor did he care" [187].“Paul's breezy dismissal of the very foundations of Judaism was as shocking to the leaders of the Jesus movement in Jerusalem as it would have been to Jesus himself” [186].“The story of the zealous Galilean peasant and Jewish nationalist who donned the mantle of messiah and launched a foolhardy rebellion against the corrupt Temple priesthood and the vicious Roman occupation comes to an abrupt end, not with his death on the cross, nor with the empty tomb, but at the first moment one of his followers [like Paul] dares suggest he is God” [169]. But Paul was thoroughly Jewish. The idea of Christ's divinity was not easily digestible -- especially to a Jew.VII. CONCLUSIONThe thesis – that Jesus was a failed revolutionary – is a failed thesis. It is deeply flawed.Aslan makes the same mistake made by those who rejected Jesus as true Messiah in his own day!Aslan admits that once he rejected Christianity he was “confused and spiritually unmoored” [xix]. This shows in his book.One appropriate adjective for the thesis / book: tendentious.Zealot received many accolades—I notice that none are from biblical scholars.Should people read this book?Although I cannot recommend the book as a source for solid information, there are some interesting parts.Further, so much is skewed that many Christians will be put off by Zealot. They will feel belittled.However, teachers, preachers, and other church leaders should know their Bibles well enough to be able to refute these claims, to give truth and confidence to those who may be rattled by teachers like Aslan. That means someone needs to wade in and devote some time to untangling the critics' arguments.

Flaws in CDC data led it to overstate how many people received Covid shots, according to a new report by the Covid States Project, a collaboration of researchers from Northeastern, Harvard, Rutgers and Northwestern universities. Krista Mahr talks with host Ruth Reader about the data.