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AI is reshaping the tech landscape, but a big question remains: is this just another platform shift, or something closer to electricity or computing in scale and impact? Some industries may be transformed. Others may barely feel it. Tech giants are racing to reorient their strategies, yet most people still struggle to find an everyday use case. That tension tells us something important about where we actually are.In this episode, technology analyst and former a16z partner Benedict Evans joins General Partner Erik Torenberg to break down what is real, what is hype, and how much history can guide us. They explore bottlenecks in compute, the surprising products that still do not exist, and how companies like Google, Meta, Apple, Amazon, and OpenAI are positioning themselves.Finally, they look ahead at what would need to happen for AI to one day be considered even more transformative than the internet.Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction 0:17 – Defining AI and Platform Shifts1:50 – Patterns in Technology Adoption6:04 – AI: Hype, Bubbles, and Uncertainty13:25 – Winners, Losers, and Industry Impact19:00 – AI Adoption: Use Cases and Bottlenecks24:00 – Comparisons to Past Tech Waves32:00 – The Role of Products and Workflows40:00 – Consumer vs. Enterprise AI46:00 – Competitive Landscape: Tech Giants & Startups51:00 – Open Questions & The Future of AIResources:Follow Benedict on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benedictevans/ Stay Updated:If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Find a16z on X: https://x.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zListen to the a16z Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5bC65RDvs3oxnLyqqvkUYXListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a16z-podcast/id842818711Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see http://a16z.com/disclosures. Stay Updated:Find a16z on XFind a16z on LinkedInListen to the a16z Show on SpotifyListen to the a16z Show on Apple PodcastsFollow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Segment 1: The Hidden Lender in America's Drug Supply Chain Guests: Antonio Ciaccia, President, 3 Axis Advisors Alec Ginsberg, Founder, The Drugstore Cowboy Building on Alec Ginsberg's investigative article, “The Hidden Lender in America's Drug Supply Chain,” this discussion exposes how capital flows, credit structures, and opaque financial relationships influence pharmacy viability. Ciaccia and Ginsberg break down what independent pharmacists need to understand about who truly controls leverage in the system—and why transparency matters more than ever. Segment 2: How AI Is Transforming Pharmacy Operations Guests: Harry Travis, BS Pharm, MBA, President, The Travis Group Amanda Awe, PharmD, Clinical Product Consultant, Curatio Advisors Artificial intelligence is no longer theoretical in pharmacy—it's operational. This segment explores how AI is being deployed today to improve workflow efficiency, clinical decision-making, and patient engagement, while addressing the real-world challenges of adoption. Inside the Forces Reshaping America's Drug Supply Chain | TWIRx Thanks to NimbleRx, PRISM by OvaryIT, and Sykes & Company for sponsorsing today's show
EP 215: Were hanging out in the PodPort with JoeBro recapping our deer seasons. Lots of stories, laughs, and lessons learned! Enjoy! IF YOU WANT TO SUPPORT THE SHOW, CHECK OUT OUR PATREON! The Whitetail Distraction Podcast is creating Podcasts and Videos | Patreon If you want some badass broadheads, head over to VIP's website: https://www.viparchery.com or give Matt and Cindy Futtere a call and tell them the Whitetail Distraction Podcast boys sent you. They are truly some of the best people in the business! The Combat Veteran will cause major damage to the intended target as combat veterans are trained to do! One of the best seed companies in the game has agreed to offer 10% off! Go check out Back Forty Seed Co. and use code DISTRACTION10. https://backfortyseedco.com To complement our broadhead usage - check out VPA's full lineup of products at www.vparchery.com use discount code WDP for 10% off! You have to see their project at www.50forged.com Skre Gear is back!! You know the routine, high quality products with a lifetime warranty at an affordable cost! Use discount code WDP for 15% off!! Check their growing lineup at www.skregear.com Our newest partner is Hunt Arsenal!! Platforms, saddles, packs and more! They are taking the mobile hunting space by storm! Give them a serious consideration at https://huntarsenal.com/ Like this episode? Head over to iTunes and give us a 5-star rating and leave a review. Not hearing what you like, or just simply have suggestions? Send us an email at TheWhitetailDistractionPodcast@gmail.com Also, check us out on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube @TheWhitetailDistractionPodcast, Twitter @TheWDPodcast and TikTok @TheWhitetailDistraction. The Distraction is Real!
On Today's Menu on Marsha's Plate This week we talk about Delta Airlines foolishness, this Trans Man vs Trans Women debate Listen on all streaming Platforms https://pod.link/1293033444 Here we talk about cultural events, entertainment news, and gender politics from a Black Trans feminist lens. This is Diamond Stylz archival work that preserves the histories, experiences, and contributions of a marginalized community that has been historically erased, overlooked, or misrepresented. We focus on people who identitfy as Black, trans, gay, or woman...or any combination of all of them. We have merch as well if you wanna support Marsha's Plate https://teespring.com/stores/marshasplate Reading Recommendations https://bookshop.org/shop/DiamondStylz #marshasplate #girlslikeus #boyslikeus #transgender #podcast #podsincolor #podernfamily #transisbeautiful #houston #lgbt #transmen #transwomen #blackfeminism #trans101 #trans #blacktranswomen #blacktransmen #houstonpride #indiepodcast #blacktranslivesmatter #lgbtqia #lgbtq #genderidentity #pride #blackgirlmagic #blackboyjoy #podcast
Kevin chats with Jay Rollins about his 40-year journey building and selling four companies, from RTC-era distressed acquisitions to growing JCR Capital to $1.6 billion in AUM before selling to Walker Dunlop in 2018. Now Jay's doing something different with Canopy Real Estate Partners—scouting real estate operators between 35 and 45 who've proven they can do deals but have never recruited institutional capital. His pitch: let Canopy put discretionary capital in your hands, teach you fund management, and help you build a platform, taking no equity in your company beyond what's earned at the project level. Jay discusses how he's matched his fund product to investor appetite with a structure that behaves like a real estate bond—6% current return, four-year duration, 18% at exit, with only 50-55% leverage—designed for LPs tired of "trust me, I'll call you in five years." The conversation covers why having discretionary capital in the middle market is a massive competitive advantage, how proper promote structures and vesting drive team alignment, and why basic interpersonal skills like looking someone in the eye and remembering their name will put you ahead of 95% of the younger generation.
Today:Franchie Viaud, bookstore manager at Just Book-ish in Dorchester, and Cathy and Bruce Jacobs, co-owners of Turtle Books in Brookline, discuss the importance of independent bookstores.And, musician Will Dailey joins ahead of a show at the Paradise Rock Club.
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1215: Today we break down why monthly payments keep climbing despite improving fundamentals, VinFast's shrinking U.S. footprint as it pivots overseas, and VaynerMedia's Anti-Trend Report showing why trend-chasing is officially dead in 2026.Show Notes with links:New-vehicle payments hit a November record at $760, but underneath the headline, several affordability pressures are actually starting to ease. Softer interest rates and strong used-vehicle values are helping cushion buyers as the market normalizes into year-end.Rates dipped to 6.1% and robust used values are keeping trade-in equity near historic highs.Dealer profits stayed steady at $2,161 per vehicle, showing margin stability.However, negative equity rose to 27% of all trades and lease expirations are down 15% YoY and 50% vs. 2023“How aggressively manufacturers choose to adjust discounting and promotional activity during December will be critical in shaping the close of 2025.” said J.D. Power's Thomas King.VinFast's retreat from the U.S. market is accelerating as its retail network falls below two dozen active stores. Falling sales, stalled product plans, and shifting global priorities are prompting dealers to exit while the brand refocuses on markets where demand is stronger.Holman's North Carolina store — VinFast's first U.S. franchise — ends sales Dec. 31, marking the third dealer exit in six months.U.S. registrations fell 57% through October, even as overall EV sales grew 11% in the same period.Several listed stores show no inventory or are “coming soon,” and many active rooftops have 15 or fewer vehicles in stock.“Given the tariff situation and the instability in the EV market, we just need to see how that settles before we push hard in the U.S.,” said VinFast chairwoman Thuy Thu Le.VaynerMedia's new Anti-Trend Report argues that social trends are collapsing faster than ever, making 2026 the year brands stop chasing virality and start pursuing genuine relevance. With algorithms fragmenting attention, emotional connection becomes the new competitive advantage.The report says trend fatigue is accelerating — trends now fade 14x faster than they used to, and 1/3 of consumers think brands “jumping on viral trends” is embarrassing.Platforms are blurring: TikTok layouts show up on Instagram, Facebook-style text posts appear everywhere — meaning content format matters more than platform identity.Audiences expect authenticity, not broadcasts; brands must create two-way social conversations, not passive content streams.“In 2026, the brands that win won't be those who shout the loudest, but those who show up the most real.” — Allan Blair, SVP & Head of Strategy, VaynerMediaThank you to today's sponsor, Mia. Capture more revenue, protect CSI, and never miss a call or connection again with 24/7 phone coverage and texJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/
Join our Patreon for extra-long episodes and ad-free content: https://www.patreon.com/techishThis week on Techish, Michael and Abadesi get into Netflix's takeover bid for Warner Brothers and what it might mean for movies and the media world. They also break down the streaming giant's new Diddy documentary, the messy ethics of prediction markets, and for Patreon listeners a brand new segment: Techish Unfiltered.A heads-up: this episode includes discussion of domestic and sexual violence which may be upsetting for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.Chapters00:38 Netflix Reaches Deal to Buy Warner Bros. Discovery07:30 50 Cent's Sean "Diddy" Combs Documentary14:02 Prediction Platforms Are Letting Users Bet on Conflict in Real Time24:55 New Patreon-Only Segment: Techish UnfilteredThis episode is sponsored by DeleteMe. Get 20% of DeleteMe at joindeleteme.com/techish with code TECHISH.Extra Reading & ResourcesExclusive: How Netflix won Hollywood's biggest prize [Reuters]It's a Bidding War: Paramount Attempts Hostile Offer for Warner Bros. [The Hollywood Reporter]New App Lets Users Bet on Deadly Conflicts in Real Time [Futurism]Polymarket Is Struggling With a $59 Million Bet About Itself [Bloomberg, $] Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast episode represents the personal opinions of the presenters and should not be considered professional financial advice. Neither host nor guests can be held responsible for any direct or incidental loss incurred by applying any of the information. Always do your own research or seek independent financial advice before making any investment decisions.Everyday AI: Your daily guide to grown with Generative AICan't keep up with AI? We've got you. Everyday AI helps you keep up and get ahead.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show————————————————————Join our Patreon for extra-long episodes and ad-free content: https://www.patreon.com/techish Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@techishpod/Advertise on Techish: https://goo.gl/forms/MY0F79gkRG6Jp8dJ2———————————————————— Stay in touch with the hashtag #Techishhttps://www.instagram.com/techishpod/https://www.instagram.com/abadesi/https://www.instagram.com/michaelberhane_/ https://www.instagram.com/hustlecrewlive/https://www.instagram.com/pocintech/Email us at techishpod@gmail.com
Send us a textWe explore why money became the default middleman and how a modern platform can make barter practical by slashing the costs of search, matching, and trust. Founder Jassim Baqer shares the story behind Tbadel, what people actually trade, and how reputation, bundling, and scale (might) make swaps work.• Adam Smith's "double coincidence of wants" problem and transaction costs• Platforms as connection engines that lower search and matching costs• Tabottle's origin, goals and name meaning exchange in Arabic• How offers, counteroffers and bundles enable fair value without prices• Building trust with profiles, ratings, in‑app messaging and reporting• Local meetups versus future delivery options to cut transfer costs• Why density and subcommunities unlock multi‑party and chain trades• What trades dominate now: books, electronics, kids' gear and services• AI matching, alerts and global exchange as the growth roadmap• Two‑sided market dynamics and the path to scaleTbadel Web SiteJassim Baqer on LinkedInFrom JJ's letter: Photos of "Parklet" in San Francisco.If you have questions or comments, or want to suggest a future topic, email the show at taitc.email@gmail.com ! You can follow Mike Munger on Twitter at @mungowitz
Which Podcast Platform is Best? Podcast Hosting Platforms Vs Podcast Streaming Directories: Research Explained with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.This podcast episode provides a comprehensive discussion on starting and growing a podcast, focusing heavily on the selection of the best podcasting platform. A key distinction is made between podcast hosting platforms (like Spotify for Creators, formerly Anchor.fm) and podcast listening platforms (such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon), emphasizing that a host distributes content via an RSS feed to multiple directories.Our conversation underscores that podcasting should be conversation-first, not monetization-first, and advises beginners to start for free to minimize initial costs. Practical advice is offered on SEO for podcasts, including the importance of consistent episode releases, with statistics showing that many podcasters quit early, and also highlights the benefit of choosing an IAB-compliant host for future monetization opportunities through advertising networks.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast--------------------------------------------------------------------------------4 Surprising Podcasting Truths That Will Save You Time and MoneyThe appeal of starting a podcast has never been stronger. With just a microphone and an idea, it seems you can reach a global audience, build a community, and create a thriving brand. This allure draws thousands of aspiring creators to the medium, all asking the same questions: "How do I start? Which platform is best? How do I make money?"But the common wisdom surrounding podcasting is often a minefield of misleading advice and expensive pitfalls. The path to a successful, sustainable show is paved with counter-intuitive truths that most creators learn the hard way. The reality is that podcasting is less about instant fame and fortune and more about a long-term commitment to a very specific craft.This article will save you time, money, and frustration. We've distilled the most surprising and impactful lessons learned from podcasting experts into four foundational takeaways. Understanding these truths from day one will give you a realistic roadmap and a significant advantage over the thousands who quit before they ever find their voice.1. It's a Conversation, Not a Cash MachineThe most common mistake new podcasters make is focusing on monetization from day one. They get caught up in finding ad sponsors and driving transactions before they've even built an audience. The primary purpose of a podcast, especially in its early stages, must be conversation. When you have a conversation with someone, you don't expect a monetary transaction afterward; you expect an exchange of value.In podcasting, that value is trust, thought leadership, and a genuine relationship with your listeners—all earned over time. Trying to monetize too early feels transactional and inauthentic, pushing potential listeners away before they have a chance to connect. As one expert puts it, the focus must be on the relationship first."if you start a podcast to run ads or to monetize, you you're actually better off starting a business than starting a podcast to monetize."This "conversation first" approach is far more sustainable. It allows you to build a loyal community that values your perspective. Monetization can and will come later, but only after trust has been firmly established. That trust is ultimately a more valuable asset than any early ad revenue.2. Your First Episodes Will Suck (So Don't Buy That $400 Mic)Many aspiring podcasters fall hook, line, and sinker for spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars on expensive equipment before they've produced a single minute of content. This is a costly mistake. I've seen seasoned creators get their best gear for dirt cheap simply by buying it from new podcasters who quit. They'll see someone selling a barely-used $400 SM7B mic for a fraction of the price because the owner never got past a few episodes.Your initial focus shouldn't be on perfect production quality but on practice. The average podcaster quits after just eight episodes. Why? Because that marks about two months of the relentless "record, edit, publish, distribute" cycle. It's the point where initial excitement fades and the reality of the grind sets in. A large upfront investment becomes a huge financial risk when the odds of sticking with it are so low."Good practice cuz your episodes in the beginning suck. It's it's just the way that it is. You know you learn the the quality of your voice. You start learning techniques."So here is the best advice you will get. Start today. Open the voice memo app on your phone, find a quiet place, and record. The goal isn't perfection; it's practice. Once you have a consistent workflow and are confident in your content, then you can consider upgrading your gear.3. A "Published" Podcast That Isn't Distributed Is Just a DraftThis is one of the most critical and misunderstood aspects of podcasting. New creators often believe that once they upload an episode to their podcast hosting platform, their job is done. This is wrong. A hosting platform is simply the "floppy disc" or "external hard drive" where your audio files are stored. It does not automatically put your show in front of listeners.To be heard, your podcast must be on listening platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, and iHeartRadio. The key to this is your RSS feed. Think of it like a website's sitemap; it's the link that allows all the different directories to find and display your content. Submitting this feed to every possible listening platform is a non-negotiable step that many beginners miss.I see this scenario play out every day. Person A publishes 10 episodes but only makes them available on their hosting site. Person B publishes the same 10 episodes but distributes their RSS feed to 20 different listening platforms. Person B has a dramatically higher probability of being discovered because they are accessible where listeners actually are. Experts tell stories of being discovered on niche platforms by international listeners—a listener from the UK finding a show on Castbox while helping a client in Spain. That serendipity only happens with wide distribution."if you don't have a podcast that is accessible then you don't really have a podcast you have I don't know what to call it but it's I would call it a draft because it's not something that is accessible"4. The Sobering Reality: The 2-Year, 100-Episode GauntletPodcasting is not a get-rich-quick scheme; it is a marathon. The statistics on podcasting longevity from Pod Match are stark and should be a reality check for anyone looking for immediate results.On average, it takes 2 years and 100 released episodes for a podcaster to begin seeing real, tangible results, whether that's meaningful audience growth, genuine community engagement, or sustainable monetization opportunities. The commitment required to reach that point is immense, and the attrition rate is staggering. Consider this statistical funnel:• The chance of a new podcast reaching just eight episodes is 45%.• The chance of hitting 50 episodes drops to 12.6%.• The milestone of 100 episodes is achieved by a mere 6% of podcasters.What this data tells us is that success in podcasting is a game of consistency and long-term commitment. It's about showing up week after week, building your catalog, and earning listener trust one episode at a time. The real value you're building over those first 100 episodes is not currency, but trust—an asset that is far more durable and powerful in the long run.Are You Ready to Play the Long Game?Successful podcasting defies the conventional wisdom of quick wins and easy money. The path is paved with a different set of priorities: prioritize genuine conversation over premature monetization, start lean and focus on practice before buying expensive gear, ensure your show is widely distributed, and most importantly, commit to the long and consistent work required to build trust.These truths aren't meant to discourage you, but to empower you with a realistic framework for success. By understanding the real challenges from the outset, you can avoid the common pitfalls that cause so many others to give up. This isn't just about business strategy; it's about legacy. As one creator reflected, "I know one day, God willing, my grandkids, my kids will be able to listen to my voice."Knowing that the real prize is trust built over time—a legacy you can leave behind—what conversation are you willing to commit to for the next 100 episodes?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
This episode features host Greg and Lewis Ward discussing the true nature of virtual worlds with Wagner James Au, author of Making a Metaverse That Matters, exploring the core design, economic, and community philosophies of successful platforms.SummaryThe discussion defines the metaverse as a vast, immersive virtual world with five core features, including highly customizable avatars and a link to the real-world economy . Au argues that to succeed, a platform must be fun immediately in a multiplayer context, operating as a "third space" where socialization is easy . He contends that Mark Zuckerberg's approach damaged the ideal of the metaverse by focusing too much on hardware and ignoring crucial lessons on community and regulation . The history of Second Life (SL) serves as a critical case study, showing that while strong community allows a platform to survive economic crises and bad onboarding, financial stability requires tightly regulated markets, learned through scandals like the implosion of virtual banks and the ban on unregulated gambling . Ultimately, the key to a thriving metaverse is prioritizing community, fostering diversity, and making creation easy .Key PointsCore Metaverse Definition A true metaverse is defined by Immersiveness, Customization (avatars/tools), Scale (millions of people), a Real-World Economy Link, and Off-World Tech Integration (for accessibility) .Identity and Design Avatars and Identity (05:51): Highly customizable avatars are critical for users to experiment with identity and personality . The Proteus Effect shows that an appealing avatar can boost real-world confidence. The "Fun First" Rule (15:40): Metaverse experiences must be fun immediately in a multiplayer setting (the Third Space concept) . This is why Roblox and Fortnite succeed. Meta's Misstep (10:26): Mark Zuckerberg caused "tremendous damage" to the concept by defining it around the Quest headset and ignoring lessons on managing toxic behavior, like the initial sexual harassment incidents on Horizon Worlds .Economics and Stability Community Precedes Commerce (29:44): Platforms must succeed as communities first. Focusing only on profit (the "Cryptoverse" issue) causes virtual worlds to fail . Second Life's Stability (22:31): SL's active user base is stable at 600,000. The paradox is that if a user survives the long onboarding, they "never leave" due to the community. Regulation is Necessary (40:53): SL's banking and gambling scandals forced Linden Lab to impose tight regulation . This proves that a tightly regulated economy is essential for user trust and stability.Timestamps 03:30 The Five Core Features of the Metaverse 05:51 Avatars and the "Proteus Effect" 10:26 Why Meta Damaged the Metaverse Concept 15:40 The Critical Rule: Why Metaverse Must Be Fun First 22:31 Second Life's Paradox: Why users never leaveReferencesMaking a Metaverse That MattersWagner James Au Lewis Ward Greg PosnerCheck out Player Driven
James brings back astrophysicist Brian Keating for a practical takedown of moon-landing conspiracy claims—and a wider lesson in how to reason when everyone has a microphone. From the Van Allen belts to “the flag waving,” Keating separates physics from folklore, explains what evidence actually looks like (hello, laser retroreflectors), and gives a playbook for engaging friends who've gone down the rabbit hole—without losing your mind.MAKE SURE TO WATCH: Brian Keating's Video Debunking the Moon Landing Conspiracy TheoryWhat You'll Learn:A simple framework for arguing well: define the claim, demand specific evidence, check physics and history, and compare against competing explanations.Why the Van Allen belts don't “fry” astronauts and how Apollo minimized exposure (trajectory + speed + shielding).How we still verify Apollo today (lunar laser ranging off Apollo-placed mirrors).How to spot trope-based arguments (appeals to vibes, selective papers, “we haven't gone back, therefore it never happened”).Timestamped Chapters:[00:00] Opening: “What's up with Candace Owens?” Setting the table: Bart Sibrel, viral platforms, and why this matters.[02:30] Rogan, Jesse Michels, and the megaphone effect. Platforms amplify doubt; why it sticks.[04:20] Thiel salons & the culture wars around ‘science.' Belief, institutions, and physics “stagnation.”[06:15] The debate that never happened. Why Sibrel refused; what counts as a real debate.[15:45] Physics 101: Van Allen belts. Charged particles, trajectories, dose vs. time.[23:10] “We haven't gone back” ≠ “we never went.” South Pole analogy; politics, cost, and program shifts.[30:00] Flag shadows, cameras, and remote control. Why the photo/camera myths fail basic engineering.[35:05] Apollo 1, the ‘lemon,' and what actually happened. Tragedy, design fixes, and conspiratorial leaps.[44:10] Keating's NASA work. Aviation safety, non-destructive evaluation, and why ‘NASA is useless' is unserious.[57:10] Hard evidence you can measure: Apollo retroreflectors, seismographs, and international confirmations.Core references:Van Allen radiation belts — NASA overview. NASA ScienceLunar laser retroreflectors (Apollo 11/14/15) — NASA & background. NASASoviet Luna 15 crashed during Apollo 11 (context on USSR verification/competition). NASAPeople, platforms, and episodes mentioned:Buzz Aldrin vs. Bart Sibrel (2002 incident) — background. HISTORYBart Sibrel — Danny Jones episode featuring Charles Duke (context). YouTubeJesse Michels on The Joe Rogan Experience (recent appearance). YouTubeHistorical context:Apollo 1 fire & the “lemon” (hung on a simulator, not the flight capsule). SpaceCultural notes referenced in-episode:Celebrity moon-hoax chatter (recent coverage of the Kardashians' comments). People.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The European Commission is attempting to regulate American platforms, and even fine them. The commission has issued a fine to social media platform X for 120 million euros, or just over $139 million. X is refusing to comply, and this is quickly turning into an issue of global diplomacy, and a question of whether foreign countries can export their laws to the United States.Also, on the point of defending American sovereignty against European powers, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth just declared that the United States will once again be enforcing the Monroe Doctrine.We'll discuss these topics, and others, in this episode of Crossroads.Views expressed in this video are opinions of the host and guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
H1: "Freedom of Speech and Censorship Continues Across Global Platforms" full 1932 Mon, 08 Dec 2025 15:20:00 +0000 5mldLTTz6jqr5AddhzquVQSAbLEa7JLY news The Tara Show news H1: "Freedom of Speech and Censorship Continues Across Global Platforms" Tara presides over the Upstate's #1 all news/talk morning show every weekday on News/Talk 989 WORD.Tara's faithful listeners are affectionately known as "Tara-ists" because of their passion and participation in the show. Tara was named 2021 Best News Talk Show and Best overall Personality, AGAIN, by the South Carolina Broadcasters Association! Tara took home the same honors in 2018 and was also named 2016 "Personality of the Year!" In addition, Tara has also won over two dozen state and national journalism awards for column writing, news reporting and investigative reporting while working for three newspapers and writing for a variety of national publications. She won a first place reporting award from the North Carolina Press Association for an investigative series about the weaknesses in Charlotte's overburdened court system, which regularly let murderers off the hook with less than 15 years in prison. Due to her work, that system has been reformed. Tara is also a winner of the prestigious first place Green Eyeshade Award, a national award for column writing from The Society of Professional Journalists. Tara took to the airwaves about 15 years ago to do a radio show heard up and down the coast and fell in love with bypassing her editors to talk straight to the people. Tara hasn't stopped reporting, and still brings her investigative journalism to the show. Tara is a mom, wife and talk radio convert-- and weekday mornings she's live and local on News/Talk 989 WORD. Are you a "Tara-ist"? It's time to get captured! 2024 © 2021 Audacy, Inc. News False https://player.amper
Sun, 07 Dec 2025 16:00:00 GMT http://relay.fm/mpu/826 http://relay.fm/mpu/826 2025 State of the Platforms (Part 2) 826 David Sparks and Stephen Hackett The guys wrap up their review of Apple's 2025 with a look at the iPhone, Apple TV, iCloud, and Apple's other services. They then zoom out and look at the overall ecosystem. The guys wrap up their review of Apple's 2025 with a look at the iPhone, Apple TV, iCloud, and Apple's other services. They then zoom out and look at the overall ecosystem. clean 8679 Subtitle: iPhone, Apple TV, iCloud, Other Services, and the EcosystemThe guys wrap up their review of Apple's 2025 with a look at the iPhone, Apple TV, iCloud, and Apple's other services. They then zoom out and look at the overall ecosystem. This episode of Mac Power Users is sponsored by: Squarespace: Save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code MPU. Indeed: Join more than 3.5 million businesses worldwide using Indeed to hire great talent fast. DEVONthink: Get Organized — Unleash Your Creativity. Get 10% off. Links and Show Notes: Sign up for the MPU email newsletter and join the MPU forums. More Power Users: Ad-free episodes with regular bonus segments Submit Feedback Give the Gift of RelayAll annual plans are 20% off through the end of the year! Mac Power Users #824: Life After iPadOS 26 - Relay Mac Power Users #825: 2025 State of the Platforms (Part 1) - Relay iPhone Heir to the Throne - 512 Pixels iPhone Air review: Back to the future – Six Colors Report: iPhone Air 2 is delayed until 2027 so Apple can add a second camera to it - 9to5Mac iPhone 17 Pro review: Orange you glad you've gone Pro? – Six Colors Mac Power Users #822: iPhone 17 Photography with Tyler Stalman - Relay Apple responds to iPhone 17 Pro scratch and durability concerns - 9to5Mac Set up eSIM on iPhone - Apple Support Use eSIM while traveling internationally with your iPhone - Apple Support Use the Camera Control on iPhone - Apple Support Use and customize the Action button on iPhone - Apple Support What's new in iOS 26 - Apple Support Widgetsmith - App Store Here's everything new for the Phone app in iOS 26 - 9to5Mac CarPlay's Messages App for iOS 26 is Bad - 512 Pixels So, Three Things - 512 Pixels Apple Intelligence - Apple John Giannandrea to retire from Apple - Apple Apple's New Siri Will Be Powered By Google Gemini - MacRumors iOS 26.1 Beta 4 Adds Liquid Glass Transparency Toggle - 512 Pixels iOS 26.2 Lock Screen Gets Liquid Glass Slider - MacRumors Apple University - Wikipedia The iPhone Ultra - 512 Pixels TV & Home - Apple Apple TV+ to Apple TV Rebrand Now Official, Here's the New Intro - MacRumors No Ad Tier for Apple TV 'At This Time,' According to Eddy Cue - MacRumors The Original Apple TV - Quinn Nelson on YouTube iCloud+ - Apple iCloud Plans - Apple Entertainment - Services - Apple Apple One - Apple The future of Apple Fitness+ is 'under review' amid reorganization: report - 9to5Mac Apple introduces AppleCare One, streamlining coverage into a single plan - Apple Android Quick Share can now work with iOS's AirDrop - Google
Sun, 07 Dec 2025 16:00:00 GMT http://relay.fm/mpu/826 http://relay.fm/mpu/826 David Sparks and Stephen Hackett The guys wrap up their review of Apple's 2025 with a look at the iPhone, Apple TV, iCloud, and Apple's other services. They then zoom out and look at the overall ecosystem. The guys wrap up their review of Apple's 2025 with a look at the iPhone, Apple TV, iCloud, and Apple's other services. They then zoom out and look at the overall ecosystem. clean 8679 Subtitle: iPhone, Apple TV, iCloud, Other Services, and the EcosystemThe guys wrap up their review of Apple's 2025 with a look at the iPhone, Apple TV, iCloud, and Apple's other services. They then zoom out and look at the overall ecosystem. This episode of Mac Power Users is sponsored by: Squarespace: Save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code MPU. Indeed: Join more than 3.5 million businesses worldwide using Indeed to hire great talent fast. DEVONthink: Get Organized — Unleash Your Creativity. Get 10% off. Links and Show Notes: Sign up for the MPU email newsletter and join the MPU forums. More Power Users: Ad-free episodes with regular bonus segments Submit Feedback Give the Gift of RelayAll annual plans are 20% off through the end of the year! Mac Power Users #824: Life After iPadOS 26 - Relay Mac Power Users #825: 2025 State of the Platforms (Part 1) - Relay iPhone Heir to the Throne - 512 Pixels iPhone Air review: Back to the future – Six Colors Report: iPhone Air 2 is delayed until 2027 so Apple can add a second camera to it - 9to5Mac iPhone 17 Pro review: Orange you glad you've gone Pro? – Six Colors Mac Power Users #822: iPhone 17 Photography with Tyler Stalman - Relay Apple responds to iPhone 17 Pro scratch and durability concerns - 9to5Mac Set up eSIM on iPhone - Apple Support Use eSIM while traveling internationally with your iPhone - Apple Support Use the Camera Control on iPhone - Apple Support Use and customize the Action button on iPhone - Apple Support What's new in iOS 26 - Apple Support Widgetsmith - App Store Here's everything new for the Phone app in iOS 26 - 9to5Mac CarPlay's Messages App for iOS 26 is Bad - 512 Pixels So, Three Things - 512 Pixels Apple Intelligence - Apple John Giannandrea to retire from Apple - Apple Apple's New Siri Will Be Powered By Google Gemini - MacRumors iOS 26.1 Beta 4 Adds Liquid Glass Transparency Toggle - 512 Pixels iOS 26.2 Lock Screen Gets Liquid Glass Slider - MacRumors Apple University - Wikipedia The iPhone Ultra - 512 Pixels TV & Home - Apple Apple TV+ to Apple TV Rebrand Now Official, Here's the New Intro - MacRumors No Ad Tier for Apple TV 'At This Time,' According to Eddy Cue - MacRumors The Original Apple TV - Quinn Nelson on YouTube iCloud+ - Apple iCloud Plans - Apple Entertainment - Services - Apple Apple One - Apple The future of Apple Fitness+ is 'under review' amid reorganization: report - 9to5Mac Apple introduces AppleCare One, streamlining coverage into a single plan - Apple Android Quick Share can now work with iOS's AirDrop - Google
Meta has begun limiting certain accounts ahead of the official start of the Social Media Ban on 10 December. Platforms that violate the law could face fines of up to 50 million dollars. Israeli media say Yasser Abu Shabab, a Bedouin tribal leader who led an anti-Hamas faction in Gaza, has been killed in Rafah. The European Broadcasting Union has confirmed that Israel will be allowed to take part in next year's Eurovision Song Contest. - 16歳未満のソーシャルメディア利用を制限する法律「ソーシャルメディア・バン」の施行まで1週間を切った今週、ソーシャルメディア大手・メタは、一部アカウントの制限を開始しました。法律が施行される12月10日以降、違反した企業には最大5,000万ドルの罰金が科される可能性があります。ガザで反ハマス勢力を率いていたベドウィン部族の指導者、ヤセル・アブ・シャバブ氏が、ラファで殺害されました。イスラエルのメディアが伝えています。欧州最大級の国別対抗ソングコンテスト「ユーロビジョン」の来年の大会をめぐり、ヨーロッパ放送連合(EBU)がイスラエルの参加を認めました。1週間を振り返るニュースラップです。
Meta has begun limiting certain accounts ahead of the official start of the Social Media Ban on 10 December. Platforms that violate the law could face fines of up to 50 million dollars. Israeli media say Yasser Abu Shabab, a Bedouin tribal leader who led an anti-Hamas faction in Gaza, has been killed in Rafah. The European Broadcasting Union has confirmed that Israel will be allowed to take part in next year's Eurovision Song Contest. Recorded 5 December. - 16歳未満のソーシャルメディア利用を制限する法律「ソーシャルメディア・バン」の施行まで1週間を切った今週、ソーシャルメディア大手・メタは、一部アカウントの制限を開始しました。法律が施行される12月10日以降、違反した企業には最大5,000万ドルの罰金が科される可能性があります。ガザで反ハマス勢力を率いていたベドウィン部族の指導者、ヤセル・アブ・シャバブ氏が、ラファで殺害されました。イスラエルのメディアが伝えています。欧州最大級の国別対抗ソングコンテスト「ユーロビジョン」の来年の大会をめぐり、ヨーロッパ放送連合(EBU)がイスラエルの参加を認めました。1週間を振り返るニュースラップです。12月5日収録。
According to the New York Post, a twisted online cult, dubbed 'Greggy's Cult,' terrorized and blackmailed children on gaming platforms into performing illicit acts on camera. In this episode, host Paul John Spaulding, Kyle Haglund, VP, Audio Engineering at Cybercrime Magazine, and Sam White, Video Producer at Cybercrime Magazine, discuss this story, alongside recent news that Roblox was banned in Russia. • For more on cybersecurity, visit us at https://cybersecurityventures.com
On Today's Menu on Marsha's Plate We talk about Wolrd AIDS day, New media, the dumbing down of America, and True Crime Fumbles Listen on all streaming Platforms https://pod.link/1293033444 Here we talk about cultural events, entertainment news, and gender politics from a Black Trans feminist lens. This is Diamond Stylz archival work that preserves the histories, experiences, and contributions of a marginalized community that has been historically erased, overlooked, or misrepresented. We focus on people who identitfy as Black, trans, gay, or woman...or any combination of all of them. We have merch as well if you wanna support Marsha's Plate https://teespring.com/stores/marshasplate Reading Recommendations https://bookshop.org/shop/DiamondStylz #marshasplate #girlslikeus #boyslikeus #transgender #podcast #podsincolor #podernfamily #transisbeautiful #houston #lgbt #transmen #transwomen #blackfeminism #trans101 #trans #blacktranswomen #blacktransmen #houstonpride #indiepodcast #blacktranslivesmatter #lgbtqia #lgbtq #genderidentity #pride #blackgirlmagic #blackboyjoy #podcast
In this week's roundup of the latest news in online speech, content moderation and internet regulation, Ben is joined by Vaishnavi J, former head of youth policy at Meta and founder and principal of Vyanams Strategies, a product advisory firm that helps companies, civil society, and governments build safer age appropriate experiences. Prior to founding Vys, she led video policy at Twitter, built its safety team in APAC and was Google's child safety polciy lead in APAC. Together Ben and Vaishnavi discuss:House overhauls KOSA in a new kids online safety package (The Verge)A nationwide internet age verification plan is sweeping Congress (The Verge)Grindr supports app store age-verification bill despite censorship concerns (Pink News)A summary of the technology sector's response to the UK's new online safety rules (Ofcom)Age Assurance Implementation Handbook (Vyanams)Interoperable Age Assurance (Age Verification Providers Association)EU's non-binding resolution around revamping child safety rules (European Parliament)‘We'll be watching': Social media companies warned about complying with ban as teens flock to alternative apps (Crikey)The Salesforce of safety: Software vendors as infrastructural/professional nodes in the field of online trust and safety (Sage, Platforms & Society)It's their job to keep AI from destroying everything (The Verge) Ctrl-Alt-Speech is a weekly podcast from Techdirt and Everything in Moderation. Send us your feedback at podcast@ctrlaltspeech.com and sponsorship enquiries to sponsorship@ctrlaltspeech.com. Thanks for listening.
Utah Republican Celeste Maloy and Massachusetts Democrat Jake Auchincloss have introduced legislation called the "Deepfake Liability Act". This legislation would hold platforms accountable for AI-generated sexual images and other content put there by users. Representative Celeste Maloy joins the show to discuss the legislation.
The Cybercrime Magazine Podcast brings you daily cybercrime news on WCYB Digital Radio, the first and only 7x24x365 internet radio station devoted to cybersecurity. Stay updated on the latest cyberattacks, hacks, data breaches, and more with our host. Don't miss an episode, airing every half-hour on WCYB Digital Radio and daily on our podcast. Listen to today's news at https://soundcloud.com/cybercrimemagazine/sets/cybercrime-daily-news. Brought to you by our Partner, Evolution Equity Partners, an international venture capital investor partnering with exceptional entrepreneurs to develop market leading cyber-security and enterprise software companies. Learn more at https://evolutionequity.com
What's stopping legacy companies from becoming the next Airbnb or Amazon—and how can they unlock platform thinking to transform their assets into thriving ecosystems? Dive into how established organizations can use the “Digital Phoenix” effect to fuel innovation, leverage their existing advantages, and reshape value creation with cutting-edge insights from the world of platforms. Topics covered: Platform business models and value creationPlatform thinking vs. traditional business models The “Digital Phoenix” effect and leveraging idle assets Case studies: Telepass, EasyPark, airports, and Chipotle Overcoming barriers to platform transformation Internal platforms and cross-functional collaboration The impact of AI and generative AI on organizations Employee engagement and organizational change Shifting from customer-centricity to value architecture Scaling, flexibility, and regeneration benefits of platforms Connect with Daniel & Tommaso:Website: PlatformThinking.EULinkedIn: Daniel Trabucchi // Tommaso Buganza Episode Chapters00:00:05 – Introduction and welcome 00:00:33 – The rise of platform companies and industries reshaped 00:01:38 – AI's role in internal platforms and collaboration 00:02:02 – Guests' background and partnership 00:02:29 – The Digital Phoenix Effect and business transformation 00:04:16 – The Phoenix analogy and legacy company opportunities 00:04:43 – Telepass case study: from legacy to platform 00:05:58 – Overcoming the chicken-and-egg problem 00:07:39 – Idle assets: a startup advantage for legacy firms 00:08:47 – Defining platforms: do both sides need to be tech-centric? 00:09:18 – Types of users and value creation differences 00:10:09 – Legacy firms, tech, and two-sided value 00:12:36 – Nontraditional examples: airports and value creation 00:14:12 – Chipotle's farmer market: a pandemic case 00:17:11 – Mindset shifts: sustainability, regeneration, and platform transformation 00:19:09 – Barriers to platform adoption: mindset, complexity, and value 00:23:57 – From customer shoes to value architect's perspective 00:25:10 – Reshaping organizations: multiple customer mindsets 00:27:23 – Common worries of business leaders 00:29:41 – Benefits for companies making the leap 00:33:25 – Organizational change and employee engagement 00:34:14 – Leading innovation and internal platform value 00:36:12 – Creating a win-win within organizations 00:38:26 – AI's evolving role in platform thinking 00:40:57 – Internal collaboration and GenAI's sliding doors 00:42:49 – Where to find the guests and resources 00:44:03 – Show credits and closing
On this episode of the GovCon Giants Podcast, Eric sits down with Mario Antwine, Yale and Howard grad, M&A strategist, and new owner of Pearl Interactive Network, to break down how a finance guy bought an eight-figure federal contractor and is now scaling it like a private equity platform. Mario shares why he targeted GovCon specifically, how he acquired Pearl sight unseen, and the operational upgrades he's made to modernize a 20-year-old business process outsourcing company serving HHS, DOD, VA, and DHS. You'll hear how he thinks about systems, advisors, and culture, why he's aggressively hunting small-business teaming partners, and why the future of GovCon belongs to companies that pair mission-driven work with tech-enabled innovation. Key Takeaways: Buy, don't just build: Mario used acquisition—backed by strong advisors and a clear thesis—to enter GovCon and rapidly step into large, long-term federal contracts instead of starting from scratch. Teaming as a growth engine: Pearl is actively looking for small-business partners in digital transformation, cloud/ServiceNow, behavioral health, automation, and IT help desk across HHS, Defense Health, VA, and DHS. Platforms > one-off contracts: The winners in the next phase of GovCon will be those who build repeatable systems, tech-enabled delivery models, and mission-focused platforms that agencies and primes can't imagine operating without. Learn more: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ https://govcongiants.org/ Encore Funding: https://www.encore-funding.com/ Tony's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-gray-mba-bdp/ Website: https://www.gbdassociation.org/
Stack or Stall: Why Credentials Collapse but Ecosystems CompoundLast year's Chemistry Nobel went to non-chemists. The lasting power of domain-specific credentials is collapsing - but David Julian has seen this pattern before across four technological revolutions and knows what compounds instead. From Hotjobs.com to Google's global EdTech partnerships, Julian identified what separates transformative innovations from footnotes: they teach users something new, reduce friction, and fundamentally improve lives. Now on Harvard's Galileo Project steering committee, he's applying ecosystem logic to AI-powered astrophysics - and discovering why stacking beats selecting.The insight: Skills stack. Modular, complementary, and interoperable capabilities stack. Liberal arts + AI certifications compound income dramatically. Universities aren't obsolete - their business models are. Survivors become platforms for compounding, not gatekeepers of credentials.Paradigm Shifts:
Rory and Drew celebrate crawling their way to 30k subs, then immediately prove they are barely qualified to handle it by turning a Stranger Things binge into a full-blown lecture on composition, lighting, and how to reverse-engineer blockbuster shots into Midjourney and Nano Banana Pro prompts. They talk like film school dropouts who discovered prompts instead of lenses. From there, they unpack fresh Midjourney office hours: the upcoming UI/UX overhaul with continuous scrolling, better color control, a reworked style system, and the big one: parallel edit models that finally keep you inside Midjourney instead of forcing you into five other tools. They break down what “better text handling” could realistically mean for real-world client work, what to expect from Midjourney V8 training in January, and why business use cases will decide who actually wins this model war. Then it's a long, dangerous slide into Nano Banana Pro obsession. They show how they are using it for real campaigns: ingredient flat-lay diagrams with perfect labels, knolling that actually respects object counts, thumbnail iterations in minutes, hyper-real food tweaks (“make the cheese more brown and bubbly”) and product work where text on bottles and labels actually holds up. Think: turning moodboards into branded cars, movie-poster typography onto existing art, and multi-shot car sequences that are clean enough to use as video keyframes. In the back half, they zoom out into systems: building custom Nano tools in Google AI Studio, using JSON prompts, if-then logic, and style libraries to create reusable pipelines for teams that are not prompt nerds. They rant about broken N8N workflows, fake Instagram “AI automation” grifts, and share where affiliate tools actually see conversions today across YouTube, X, and LinkedIn. It is part Midjourney V8 rumor mill, part Nano Banana Pro clinic, part therapy session for creatives trying to stay sane in an algorithm that clearly prefers trolls and evolving Pokémon. --⏱️ Midjourney Fast Hour00:00 Midjourney Fast Hours hits 30k subs01:28 Stranger Things S5, film craft & AI framing05:39 Turning cinematic shots into AI prompts07:33 Pop culture prompts, memes & brand tie-ins08:38 Nano Banana branding tricks & model hype cycle09:38 Midjourney swag, “non-sponsored sponsors”10:12 Midjourney UI overhaul & scrolling-style feed15:46 Midjourney edit models and in-app image editing20:16 Midjourney V8 timing, text handling & business use24:41 Midjourney vs other models for real client work26:47 Free image tools, casual users & competition30:57 Nano Banana Pro: real-world client use cases36:31 Micro edits, product shots & text stress tests42:33 Product versioning, depth tests & asset variants44:25 Car branding, moodboards & Nano video keyframes46:20 Polaroid race car branding & design details50:09 Building custom Nano tools in Google AI Studio55:21 Style libraries, handoff workflows & reverse prompts59:17 If-then logic for prompts, GPTs & image systems01:03:01 From tokens to full-blown image systems01:04:21 Instagram grifts, empty funnels & manychat rage01:05:15 Platforms that actually convert for AI tools01:06:38 Algorithm chaos, Pokémon and death threats01:06:58 Midjourney swag, the Faye cameo & water bottle talk01:07:58 Future video model hype, skepticism & sign-off
This week we're going deep on the rise of prediction markets — the hybrid of futures trading, sports gambling, and economic theology that suddenly seems to have eaten the world. Platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi are booming and an increasingly big part of both tech culture and also gambling culture. We trace the whole arc: from Hayekian fantasies about prices revealing truth, to the far bigger truth: people just really, really like having a punt. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode Summary: In this episode of the Solar Maverick Podcast, Benoy sits down with Rob Sternthal, Managing Director at Expedition Infrastructure Partners, to break down how investors evaluate solar platforms and development pipelines. Rob brings more than 20 years of experience in investment banking, tax equity, structured finance, and renewable energy, and he explains the real criteria that determine platform value today. Benoy and Rob discuss why platforms are being repriced, how rising SG&A and longer development timelines are reshaping exits, and what investors are prioritizing in the current market. They also cover the Pine Gate bankruptcy, the renewed shift toward “develop and flip,” battery economics, tax credit insurance constraints, FEOC uncertainty, and the wave of distress expected to define the industry over the next two to three years. Biographies Benoy Thanjan Benoy Thanjan is the Founder and CEO of Reneu Energy, solar developer and consulting firm, and a strategic advisor to multiple cleantech startups. Over his career, Benoy has developed over 100 MWs of solar projects across the U.S., helped launch the first residential solar tax equity funds at Tesla, and brokered $45 million in Renewable Energy Credits (“REC”) transactions. Prior to founding Reneu Energy, Benoy was the Environmental Commodities Trader in Tesla's Project Finance Group, where he managed one of the largest environmental commodities portfolios. He originated REC trades and co-developed a monetization and hedging strategy with senior leadership to enter the East Coast market. As Vice President at Vanguard Energy Partners, Benoy crafted project finance solutions for commercial-scale solar portfolios. His role at Ridgewood Renewable Power, a private equity fund with 125 MWs of U.S. renewable assets, involved evaluating investment opportunities and maximizing returns. He also played a key role in the sale of the firm's renewable portfolio. Earlier in his career, Benoy worked in Energy Structured Finance at Deloitte & Touche and Financial Advisory Services at Ernst & Young, following an internship on the trading floor at D.E. Shaw & Co., a multi billion dollar hedge fund. Benoy holds an MBA in Finance from Rutgers University and a BS in Finance and Economics from NYU Stern, where he was an Alumni Scholar. Rob Sternthal For the last 20+ years, Rob has been a leading investment banking executive and recognized platform builder across the renewable power, energy, ESG and real assets sectors, advising on more than $25 billion of transactions. Prior to joining XIP, Rob was a Managing Director focusing on renewable power at Piper Sandler. Before that, Rob was responsible for building platforms at Rubicon Capital Advisors as well as CohnReznick (now CRC-IB). He founded and built CohnReznick's Capital Markets group (CRC) into a market-leader over ten years, completing nearly $20 billion in transactions and managing a team of 30 professionals. Prior to CRC, Rob established and led multiple real estate and asset-backed securities practices for Credit Suisse in the United States as well as internationally. He began his career as an attorney for the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission as well as in private practice at Milbank. Rob received a bachelor's degree in economics and French, with honors, from Emory University and a Juris Doctorate, cum laude, from the Temple University School of Law. Rob is a Registered Representative of BA Securities, LLC. Member FINRA, SIPC. Stay Connected: Benoy Thanjan Email: info@reneuenergy.com LinkedIn: Benoy Thanjan Website: https://www.reneuenergy.com Website: https://www.solarmaverickpodcast.com Rob Sternthal Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-sternthal-548b287/ Website: https://xipllc.com/ Email: Rob@xipllc.com NPM Podcast related to XIP's partnership with Gordian: https://newprojectmedia.com/npm-interconnections-us-episode-172-rob-sternthal-peter-kauffman-xip-gordian/ If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share the Solar Maverick Podcast so more people can learn how to accelerate the clean energy transition. Join Us for the Winter Solstice Fundraiser! I'm excited to invite you to our Winter Solstice Fundraiser, hosted by Reneu Energy and the Solar Maverick Podcast on Thursday, December 4th from 6–10 PM at Hudson Hall in Jersey City, NJ! https://www.tickettailor.com/events/reneuenergy/1919391 This event brings together clean energy leaders, entrepreneurs, and friends to celebrate the season while raising funds for the Let's Share the Sun Foundation, which installs solar and storage systems for families and communities in need in Puerto Rico. We'll have: -Great food and drinks -Amazing networking with solar and sustainability professionals -Sports memorabilia auctions (with proceeds benefiting Let's Share the Sun) -An inspiring community focused on making an impact through solar energy If you or your company would like to get involved as a sponsor, please message us at info@reneuenergy.com. Reneu Energy Reneu Energy provides expert consulting across solar and storage project development, financing, energy strategy, and environmental commodities. Our team helps clients originate, structure, and execute opportunities in community solar, C&I, utility-scale, and renewable energy credit markets. Email us at info@reneuenergy.com to learn more.
Creating spaces where people feel safe, respected, and able to show up as their full selves isn't just “nice to have” anymore—it's necessary. As conversations about diversity and inclusion get quieter in some rooms, the need for brave, supportive communities grows louder. Whether you're learning, leading, or simply trying to navigate today's workplace culture, empathy, curiosity, and belonging are the foundation of any environment where people can thrive.This theme came through powerfully in my conversation with Gemma Toner of Tone Networks. Her work offers a clear example of what's possible when we intentionally build communities that put people first.Safe Spaces Are a LifelineIn a moment where formal DEI programs are being scaled back or eliminated, people still need places to learn, ask questions, and connect without fear of being judged. That's where platforms like Tone Networks shine. Their community was built with accessibility in mind—not just in terms of content, but in terms of comfort.Instead of traditional, rigid learning structures, they create experiences where people can engage, reflect, and grow at their own pace. Anonymous questions, bite-sized content, and a truly welcoming environment make it easier for folks to step in without feeling like they need to perform or “get it right.” When people feel safe, they're more willing to stretch, listen, and understand.And that matters now more than ever.Empathy as the Entry PointIf safe spaces are the goal, empathy is the door we walk through to get there.Empathy doesn't require us to agree with someone; it requires us to try to understand them. It's slowing down long enough to ask, “What might be true for them right now?”When we give people grace—recognizing that a tough moment doesn't define their whole character—we build trust. That trust becomes the foundation for deeper conversations, more honest reflection, and more courageous learning.And it doesn't end with others. Empathy toward ourselves—especially when we're overwhelmed or unsure—helps us stay grounded and curious rather than defensive.Curiosity Keeps Us ConnectedCuriosity helps us move beyond our own lenses. Every one of us brings multiple dimensions of identity into a room—race, gender, family roles, lived experiences, culture, values, and more. Some of those things are visible. Others are not.When we lead with curiosity instead of assumptions, we create space to understand the fuller picture of someone's identity. This shift moves us from “I know what you need” to “Help me understand your experience.”That mindset makes room for people to bring their whole selves—not just the parts they think will be accepted.Inclusion Means Embracing Our Multidimensional LivesInclusivity isn't about building spaces for one group—it's about building spaces where people with a range of identities feel seen, heard, and supported.Yes, some spaces intentionally center marginalized voices to address the gaps they experience. But that doesn't make them exclusionary. It means there's a purpose and a point of connection. It means people get the chance to be understood without having to defend their existence.When everyone is welcomed and encouraged to learn from each other's lived experiences, communities become richer and more resilient. It's the opposite of division—it's intentional connection.Respect and Community Hold It All TogetherA community can only be as strong as its agreements. Tone Networks models this beautifully by setting boundaries around respect, accountability, and compassion. Those expectations help shape a culture where people feel like they can speak freely and know the space will be held with care.The same applies in workplaces, classrooms, and everyday life.Clear expectations help us protect the emotional safety of the people around us. And when people feel safe, they show up more fully—not just as employees or learners, but as human beings.Personal Growth Is Part of InclusionInclusion isn't just about policy. It's also about personal practice.It's the gratitude list you write in the morning.It's the cup of tea that anchors your day.It's the small moments of self-care that refill your energy.It's helping someone when you can, because your cup feels full enough to share.Those grounding practices strengthen our capacity to lead with empathy and patience. When we're running on empty, it's much harder to be open, curious, or generous. Self-care isn't separate from inclusion—it fuels it.Meeting People Where They Are MattersWhether you're nurturing a community or leading a team, understanding your audience is key. People engage when the message fits their needs, their pace, and their lived experience. It's not about diluting the truth—it's about delivering it in a way that people can actually receive.Customized messaging shows care.Listening to your people shows respect.Creating access shows commitment.And that's how communities grow—in trust, not in fear.Our Charge Moving ForwardSafe spaces don't happen by accident. They're built with intention, compassion, and a willingness to learn from one another. When we anchor ourselves in empathy, stay curious, and honor the full identities of the people around us, we lay the groundwork for environments where everyone can breathe a little easier.Platforms like Tone Networks remind us that inclusive learning is still very much alive—and deeply needed. But this work doesn't just live in virtual communities. It lives in our homes, workplaces, friendships, and leadership choices.If we want a more equitable world, we must create the conditions for people to feel seen and safe. That starts with us—how we listen, how we show up, and how we treat one another.And when we commit to building these spaces with care, we help create a culture where people don't just survive—they thrive. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit deiafter5.substack.com/subscribe
GBS is moving from a cost-center to a growth-engine.AI-first models and platforms are rewiring enterprise operations. In this Unfiltered Stories episode, Ashwin Venkatesan, Executive Research Leader at HFS Research, sits down with Saurabh Gupta, President at HFS Research, and Shashidhar N, VP & Global Head of Platforms at EdgeVerve, to discuss what next-gen GBS really looks like—beyond slideware. What you'll learn:From “shared services” to “Generative Business Services” — AI-led, data-driven, value-obsessed.AI-first delivery = beyond productivity — shift from cost saves to revenue, speed, and innovation.What's blocking progress — silos plus technical, data, and cultural debt (and how leaders break them).Why platforms matter — unifying people, process, data, and tech for scalable, AI-powered ops.The GBS of tomorrow — AI-first by design, built for agility, collaboration, and continuous value.Also, check the companion HFS report: “Your GBS model is outdated: Fix it, or risk falling behind in the AI economy”, here: https://www.hfsresearch.com/research/your-gbs-model-is-outdated-fix-it-or-risk-falling-behind-in-the-ai-economy/
In this episode of The Identity at the Center Podcast, hosts Jim McDonald and Jeff Steadman catch up with John Tolbert, Director of Cybersecurity Research at KuppingerCole Analysts, to talk about the rapidly evolving world of Fraud Reduction Intelligence Platforms (FRIP).They explore:The six capabilities of modern fraud reduction systemsHow AI and machine learning are both helping and hurting fraud preventionWhy shared signals and orchestration are critical for financial and e-commerce use casesHow identity verification, device intelligence, and behavioral biometrics work togetherThe role of usability and integration in FRI adoptionPlus, stick around for a fun discussion about concerts, classic rock, and which legendary bands they wish they'd seen live.Listen now to learn how identity, fraud, and AI are colliding — and what's next for fraud intelligence.Connect with John: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-tolbert/Fraud Reduction Intelligence Platforms - Finance (KuppingerCole Report): https://www.kuppingercole.com/research/lc80841/fraud-reduction-intelligence-platforms-financeFraud Reduction Intelligence Platforms - eCommerce (KuppingerCole Report): https://www.kuppingercole.com/research/bc81030/fraud-reduction-intelligence-platforms-ecommerceConnect with us on LinkedIn:Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/Visit the show on the web at http://idacpodcast.comChapter Timestamps:00:00 – Jim's passwordless rant and setup woes05:00 – Introducing guest John Tolbert06:30 – Catching up: four years since John's last appearance07:30 – What is CIAM and how has it evolved?09:30 – Understanding Fraud Reduction Intelligence Platforms (FRIP)10:00 – The six core capabilities of FRI solutions13:00 – Are most vendors point solutions or full platforms?14:00 – How identity verification is improving16:00 – SaaS and API-driven fraud detection models18:00 – What kinds of fraud can (and can't) FRI prevent?21:00 – The growing problem of bots and automation22:00 – Fraud trends in finance: scams, account takeovers, and synthetic identities25:00 – Information sharing and the role of shared signals28:00 – Collaboration vs. competition in fraud prevention31:00 – Fraud in e-commerce: bots, loyalty points, and returns abuse34:00 – Streaming and citizen fraud use cases36:00 – Where do FRI capabilities fit within IAM platforms?43:00 – The importance of orchestration and integration44:30 – The role of AI and ML in fraud prevention47:30 – Smart questions for evaluating FRI vendors50:30 – Concert talk: Pink Floyd, Metallica, and the ones that got away58:00 – Wrap-up and where to find John Tolbert's reportsKeywords:Fraud Reduction Intelligence, FRI Platforms, John Tolbert, KuppingerCole, Identity at the Center, IDAC, IAM, CIAM, Cybersecurity Research, Fraud Prevention, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Behavioral Biometrics, Device Intelligence, Identity Verification, Risk Orchestration, API Security, Financial Fraud, E-Commerce Fraud, Shared Signals, Jim McDonald, Jeff Steadman, IDAC Podcast
Faster and smarter procurement with AI isn't a promise, it's already a reality.What once required spreadsheets, endless follow-ups, and hours of manual comparison can now be solved in just a few minutes with the support of artificial intelligence.AI speeds up repetitive tasks, creates RFPs, analyzes suppliers, predicts risks, and turns technical data into strategic decisions. The buyer gains an “extra brain” by their side, one capable of seeing scenarios, analyzing trends, and anticipating problems before they appear.Platforms like ZINIT are already putting this into practice, integrating AI into the procurement process and enabling predictive analysis, automated controls, and intelligent visibility across the entire chain.The technical part tends to be automated… but the human part will be more valued than ever.The real shift isn't just technological, it's mental.Procurement stops being operational and becomes corporate intelligence.And those who learn to use AI now will lead the game in the coming years.The question is simple:Do you just want to execute… or do you want to become truly strategic?
Sun, 30 Nov 2025 16:00:00 GMT http://relay.fm/mpu/825 http://relay.fm/mpu/825 2025 State of the Platforms (Part 1) 825 David Sparks and Stephen Hackett This week, Stephen and David start their annual tour of Apple's products, beginning with the Mac, then they consider the Apple Watch, the Vision Pro, and the company's lineup of audio products. This week, Stephen and David start their annual tour of Apple's products, beginning with the Mac, then they consider the Apple Watch, the Vision Pro, and the company's lineup of audio products. clean 7717 Subtitle: Mac, Apple Watch, Vision Pro, and Audio ProductsThis week, Stephen and David start their annual tour of Apple's products, beginning with the Mac, then they consider the Apple Watch, the Vision Pro, and the company's lineup of audio products. This episode of Mac Power Users is sponsored by: DEVONthink: Get Organized — Unleash Your Creativity. Get 25% off this Black Friday. KRCS: Apple Premium Reseller. Get free next-working-day delivery. 1Password: Never forget a password again. Links and Show Notes: Sign up for the MPU email newsletter and join the MPU forums. More Power Users: Ad-free episodes with regular bonus segments Submit Feedback Mac Power Users - YouTube Give the Gift of RelayAll annual plans are 20% off until December 31! Mac Power Users #824: Life After iPadOS 26 - Relay Boring Is What We Wanted - 512 Pixels Daring Fireball: 'Boring Is What We Wanted' About that A18 Pro MacBook rumor… – Six Colors 12-inch MacBook - Wikipedia The Great iMac Realignment - 512 Pixels Apple Says There Won't Be a 27-Inch iMac With Apple Silicon - MacRumors Docks and Hubs – CalDigit US Shop Apple Productivity Suite Field Guide (Expert) | MacSparky Field Guides Game Porting Toolkit - Games - Apple Developer macOS Tahoe is the end of the line for Intel Macs - Engadget Apple Users Are Keeping Their Devices for Longer as Upgrades Slow - MacRumors Apple introduces Apple Watch SE 3 - Apple Change your Apple Watch band - Apple Support Apple Watch faces and their features - Apple Support Apple Confirms Vision Pro is Not Eligible for Trade-In - MacRumors Marco Arment: "It's time to uncheck this box..." - Mastodon Logitech International - I
Sun, 30 Nov 2025 16:00:00 GMT http://relay.fm/mpu/825 http://relay.fm/mpu/825 David Sparks and Stephen Hackett This week, Stephen and David start their annual tour of Apple's products, beginning with the Mac, then they consider the Apple Watch, the Vision Pro, and the company's lineup of audio products. This week, Stephen and David start their annual tour of Apple's products, beginning with the Mac, then they consider the Apple Watch, the Vision Pro, and the company's lineup of audio products. clean 7717 Subtitle: Mac, Apple Watch, Vision Pro, and Audio ProductsThis week, Stephen and David start their annual tour of Apple's products, beginning with the Mac, then they consider the Apple Watch, the Vision Pro, and the company's lineup of audio products. This episode of Mac Power Users is sponsored by: DEVONthink: Get Organized — Unleash Your Creativity. Get 25% off this Black Friday. KRCS: Apple Premium Reseller. Get free next-working-day delivery. 1Password: Never forget a password again. Links and Show Notes: Sign up for the MPU email newsletter and join the MPU forums. More Power Users: Ad-free episodes with regular bonus segments Submit Feedback Mac Power Users - YouTube Give the Gift of RelayAll annual plans are 20% off until December 31! Mac Power Users #824: Life After iPadOS 26 - Relay Boring Is What We Wanted - 512 Pixels Daring Fireball: 'Boring Is What We Wanted' About that A18 Pro MacBook rumor… – Six Colors 12-inch MacBook - Wikipedia The Great iMac Realignment - 512 Pixels Apple Says There Won't Be a 27-Inch iMac With Apple Silicon - MacRumors Docks and Hubs – CalDigit US Shop Apple Productivity Suite Field Guide (Expert) | MacSparky Field Guides Game Porting Toolkit - Games - Apple Developer macOS Tahoe is the end of the line for Intel Macs - Engadget Apple Users Are Keeping Their Devices for Longer as Upgrades Slow - MacRumors Apple introduces Apple Watch SE 3 - Apple Change your Apple Watch band - Apple Support Apple Watch faces and their features - Apple Support Apple Confirms Vision Pro is Not Eligible for Trade-In - MacRumors Marco Arment: "It's time to uncheck this box..." - Mastodon Logitech I
Jesse and Gabi Merl are a married power couple who rebuilt from bankruptcy and six-figure student loan debt to consistent multi–six-figure months through content, social selling, and smart investing. Jesse is a multi-exit tech entrepreneur turned YouTube creator behind “Jesse ON FIRE,” while Gabi is a hormone and cortisol-focused coach and social seller who built a thriving business from scratch using short-form content. On this episode we talk about: How Jesse went from teen restaurant jobs to real estate, loans, a sports gaming startup, and ultimately a brutal acquisition that wiped out his stock and forced bankruptcy What it was like for Gabi to be pregnant with their third child, unable to practice acupuncture in a new state, and staring down six-figure student loans while deciding to jump into social selling How they rebuilt from absolute zero to over $140K/month in combined income by focusing on liquid wealth, real estate, and avoiding flashy lifestyle creep The content strategies behind “Jesse ON FIRE” and Gabi's Instagram/TikTok growth: niche selection, volume, repelling to attract, and showing up as an amplified version of yourself on camera Why most creators fail because they underestimate the time horizon (at least a year) and posting volume required before platforms reward them with real reach Top 3 Takeaways Rebuilding from zero is possible if you're willing to kill your ego, take the “soul-sucking” job when necessary, and then methodically build leverage through content and business again. Platforms reward consistency and volume; think in terms of posting multiple times per day for months, not a few posts per month, and commit to at least a year before expecting meaningful traction. The fastest way to stand out is to be specific: know your avatar, be willing to repel the wrong audience to attract the right one, and tell your story like you're talking to close friends—just slightly amplified for the camera. Notable Quotes "You have to repel to attract; if no one is a little mad, no one is truly magnetized to you." "The platforms are testing if you're going to be a consistent creator before they give you reach." "Content is just building relationships at scale—one story, one reaction, one video at a time." Connect with Jesse & Gabi Merl: YouTube (Jesse): https://www.youtube.com/@RealJesseONFIRE Twitter/X (Jesse): https://twitter.com/realjesseonfire Instagram (Jesse): https://www.instagram.com/realjesseonfire Instagram (Gabi): https://www.instagram.com/gabriellecarolyn TikTok (Gabi): https://www.tiktok.com/@gabriellecarolyn ✖️✖️✖️✖️
"Buy now, pay later" has become a retail fixture seemingly overnight, and Cyber Monday is set to be its biggest sales day yet. But as “pay in 4” platforms offer customers freedom and flexibility, are they also opening the door to a wave of unregulated debt? In this episode: Emily Stewart, Senior Correspondent, Business Insider Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Farhan Rafid, Fatima Shafiq and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
In this Q&A, we discuss the future of media and why newsletters, YouTube, and podcasts will dominate. Matt shares his MAGIC Framework for converting social followers into email subscribers. We discuss Beehiiv's newest features, including dynamic content, native analytics, and its ad network. The Q&A also covers paywalls, reader behavior shifts, and the biggest newsletter design mistakes. Finally, Matt explains how to know when you've hit content–market fit and when to use paid acquisition.FREE Guide: How to get your first 1000 newsletter subscribers in 30 days >>Timestamps & Questions:00:00 Introduction00:48 What do you think the future of media will look like?04:39 How do you drive traffic from a discovery platform to your newsletter?11:01 How do you recommend utilizing paywalls and gated content?13:29 What's the best new Beehiiv feature for smaller creators?16:05 How do you know a discovery platform is working?16:53 How should you utilize dynamic content?19:08 Should Beehiiv integrate better with Shopify?20:00 Does this put pressure on Kit and Substack to evolve?22:03 What's the most underrated moat a newsletter can have?23:12 How will reader behavior change overtime?25:01 How will B2B newsletter evolve?26:38 Advice for someone sitting on an idea for 6 months?28:32 How do you know when you have audience market fit?30:04 When should you run paid ads?31:53 What are the biggest design mistakes you see?
On Today's Menu on Marsha's Plate We discuss the Olympics banning trans and cis women with high testosterone, DL Whisper threats, and the buying protest for the holidays Listen on all streaming Platforms https://pod.link/1293033444 Here we talk about cultural events, entertainment news, and gender politics from a Black Trans feminist lens. This is Diamond Stylz archival work that preserves the histories, experiences, and contributions of a marginalized community that has been historically erased, overlooked, or misrepresented. We focus on people who identitfy as Black, trans, gay, or woman...or any combination of all of them. We have merch as well if you wanna support Marsha's Plate https://teespring.com/stores/marshasplate Reading Recommendations https://bookshop.org/shop/DiamondStylz #marshasplate #girlslikeus #boyslikeus #transgender #podcast #podsincolor #podernfamily #transisbeautiful #houston #lgbt #transmen #transwomen #blackfeminism #trans101 #trans #blacktranswomen #blacktransmen #houstonpride #indiepodcast #blacktranslivesmatter #lgbtqia #lgbtq #genderidentity #pride #blackgirlmagic #blackboyjoy #podcast
A senior detective from the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau has warned that children are being groomed and exploited on online gaming platforms at an "alarming scale". Kate McDonald, reporter with Prime Time.
Where Can Coaches Find High-Quality Drills and Strategies Without Breaking the Budget? In the digital age, the barrier to entry for high-level basketball knowledge has virtually vanished. Today, a coach with an internet connection has access to more "free" information than the greatest coaches of the 1980s accumulated in a lifetime. Platforms like YouTube are treasure troves where you can find visual demonstrations of almost any drill imaginable, from Steph Curry's pre-game routine to complex Euro-league pick-and-roll coverages. Social media channels, particularly "Coaching Twitter" (X) and dedicated Facebook groups, have become real-time exchange hubs where coaches share play diagrams, practice plans, and clinic notes daily. For the budget-conscious coach, these platforms offer an endless stream of X's and O's that can immediately upgrade a team's tactical playbook. Beyond video and social media, the rise of coaching podcasts and newsletters has democratized access to mentorship and philosophy. High-quality podcasts allow you to "sit in" on conversations with Hall of Fame coaches, absorbing their wisdom on culture, leadership, and program building during your morning commute. Many top coaching websites also utilize a "freemium" model, offering robust newsletters, downloadable PDF playbooks, and sample practice plans in exchange for an email address. These resources are often professionally curated and provide a deeper dive into specific topics—like zone offense or youth skill development—than a 30-second social media clip ever could. However, the challenge with free resources is not availability; it is curation and organization. "Free" often comes without a filter, meaning you can easily drown in a sea of conflicting advice and disjointed drills that don't fit your system. To truly benefit from free coaching resources, you must be disciplined. Instead of grabbing every shiny new drill you see on Instagram, use these free tools to solve specific problems your team is facing. Create a digital filing system (like Google Drive or Notion) to categorize the plays and drills you find. Remember that while the resource is free, your practice time is expensive; only implement what genuinely fits your philosophy and your players' skill levels. Free Basketball Drills, Basketball Coaching Resources, Free Basketball Plays, Basketball Coaching Podcasts, Youth Basketball Drills Free, Basketball Practice Plans PDF, Coaching Basketball for Free, Best Basketball YouTube Channels, Basketball Coaching Newsletters, Online Basketball Clinics, Free Basketball Coaching Aids, High School Basketball Drills, Basketball Strategy Guide, Basketball Coaching Community, Free Sports Coaching Tools, Basketball X's and O's, Coaching Twitter, Basketball Playbook Download, Free Basketball Workouts, Basketball Coaching Blogs, Affordable Coaching Tools, Basketball Skill Development, Coaching Mentorship, Basketball Drill Library, Learn Basketball Coaching Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Mastering Business Growth: Insights from Mark Abbott, Founder & CEO of Ninety, on Operating Systems, Culture, and Organizational MaturityIn this episode, host Josh Elledge sits down with Mark Abbott, Founder and CEO of Ninety, for a deep dive into business operating systems, organizational culture, and the journey of scaling small and mid-sized companies. Mark—drawing on decades of experience in entrepreneurship, software development, coaching, and workplace culture—explains how leaders can build high-performing, resilient organizations by implementing the right frameworks at the right time. This blog breaks down the episode's key insights and practical guidance to help business owners navigate their company's growth stages with clarity and confidence.Building Mature, Aligned, and High-Trust OrganizationsMark begins by explaining what a Business Operating System (BOS) truly is: a combination of tools, disciplines, and concepts that help organizations stay aligned, accountable, and scalable. He emphasizes that every company already has an operating system—whether intentional or accidental—and the goal is to consciously design one that matches the business's stage of development. Popular frameworks like EOS, Scaling Up, and The Great Game of Business offer structured paths, but each company must adopt the tools most appropriate for their maturity level.He breaks down the five stages of business development—Formation, Early Growth, Expansion, Maturity, and Legacy—and stresses that leaders must avoid skipping steps. For example, documenting every process too early is counterproductive; focusing instead on clarity, roles, and early team alignment yields better results. As businesses grow, they often mistake size for maturity, creating organizations that look impressive on the outside but lack foundational discipline internally.Mark also highlights the importance of culture, trust, and forgiveness. High-performance organizations assume goodwill, set clear expectations, and use trust as a guiding principle—while also acknowledging that not all behaviors should be tolerated. He references research from Dr. Paul Zak to explain how trust chemically fuels team performance and why leaders must foster environments where transparency and accountability thrive. Platforms like Ninety help reinforce these practices by providing tools for meetings, scorecards, vision alignment, and process documentation, ensuring companies build habits that support long-term excellence.About Mark AbbottMark Abbott is the Founder and CEO of Ninety, a platform designed to help small and mid-sized businesses implement and sustain business operating systems. With decades of experience across entrepreneurship, leadership development, and organizational design, Mark has coached countless teams on building trust-based cultures and operational excellence. Connect with Mark on LinkedIn.About NinetyNinety is a comprehensive software platform built to help organizations adopt, implement, and sustain a Business Operating System such as EOS. With tools for meetings, scorecards, rocks, issues, processes, and organizational clarity, Ninety equips leadership teams with everything they need to run a healthy, aligned, and scalable business. The platform supports both coach-led and self-directed implementations and includes extensive resources for long-term growth and accountability.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeMark Abbott LinkedIn
In this episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, I'm stitting down with Ashley Liddell, co-founder of Deviation, to explore the concept of “Search Everywhere® .” From Sephora's “Black Beauty Is Beauty” campaign to understanding the evolution of search across platforms like TikTok, Pinterest, and Reddit, Ashley shares his journey to building a unique SEO agency. We discuss the fragmentation of the customer journey, optimizing across platforms, and why traditional SEO alone is no longer enough.Key Takeaways:Search Everywhere® Philosophy: SEO now means being discoverable on every platform where your audience is already spending time—not just Google.Brand Discovery vs. Intent Search: Ashley explains the difference between interruptive discovery (social platforms) vs. intentional problem-solving (search engines).Customer Journey Mapping: Understanding platform intent and audience behavior is essential to building omnichannel search strategies.Sephora's Case Study: A missed opportunity to capitalize on a 7,000% search lift after a viral campaign highlights the need for integrated internal comms between marketing and SEO teams.Platform-Specific Optimization: Brands must tailor content (video, visual, text) based on platform expectations and user intent.Memorable Quotes:“Search Everywhere® is about engineering brand discovery where your audience actually hangs out.” – Ashley Liddell“We've always conformed to Google's expectations—but what if your audience doesn't?” – Ashley Liddell“That 7,000% spike in brand search was completely missed because of internal silos.” – Ashley LiddellListener Action Items:Reevaluate Your Search Strategy: Consider where your audience spends time—beyond Google—and start optimizing there.Audit Internal Communication: Ensure your marketing, social, and SEO teams are aligned and sharing data.Review Campaign Metrics Holistically: Don't just track social performance—look at how it influences branded search and on-site behavior.Connect with AshText me your questions or comments!Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You're not alone. That's why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let's make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.Support the showBook a Shopify Store Strategy Call With Crystal! Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO! Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!) Grid and Pixel Note: If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money. But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
Send us a textIf you've ever wondered why Caribbean-American media still rents space on other people's platforms, this conversation goes straight to the root: ownership, organization, and the business engine behind our stories. In this special episode in partnership with WhereItzAt Magazine, I sit down with two veteran publishers - Clive Williams of Where It's At Magazine and Herman Hall of Everybody's Magazine; to map what it takes to build power: an association with teeth, a revenue model that outlasts trends, and alliances that turn small outlets into a market force.We dig into the tough stuff too: why advertisers often ignore Caribbean audiences, how tourist boards spend outside the community, and what data and collaboration it takes to win budgets back. Real stories from missed chances to buy stations to the WLIB legacy reveal how fragmentation costs us and how shared platforms can change the math.Call it a blueprint for the next wave: set clear priorities, package real audience insights, and pool resources like other communities do. If we want equity and visibility, we need leverage media kits with proof, sales teams that go to market together, and partnerships that protect voice while scaling reach. By the end, you'll see a path from consumer to producer, from renting attention to owning distribution. Subscribe, share this with a creator or marketer who needs to hear it, and leave a review with one action you'll take to support Caribbean-owned media. Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
5 Lessons from 5 Years on Clubhouse App with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.This episode primarily discusses five key lessons learned from my 5 years on Clubhouse: intentionality, priority, patience, consistency, and tenacity (or resilience).Throughout the session, Favour interacts with the audience, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, providing value, and adapting to the evolving nature of the app for both personal and business growth, including mentions of his successful We Don't PLAY™️ podcast. The conversation also touches on other topics such as marketing strategy, the app's history, and making connections that lead to real-world opportunities.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Introduction: The Long Game in a Short-Attention WorldIn a digital world defined by fleeting trends and constant app-hopping, we rarely stick with a single platform long enough to draw deep conclusions. We download, explore, get bored, and move on. But what happens when you treat a social network less like a fleeting distraction and more like a consistent practice?On November 24, 2025, I opened a room on Clubhouse to mark a personal milestone: five years to the day since I first joined the audio-only platform. Back in 2020, it was an exclusive, invite-only space, and stepping into it felt like starting at a new school where you don't have any friends. You had to make them from scratch. Everyone was new, everyone was building, and that shared experience created a unique digital culture. As I celebrated that anniversary live on the app, I reflected on the journey.That long-term commitment revealed five essential, and sometimes surprising, principles for connection and growth in any digital space. These aren't just tips for social media; they are foundational lessons for navigating our increasingly online lives with purpose and impact.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------1. Intentionality: The Opposite of DoomscrollingIn a sea of infinite feeds and endless distractions, the first lesson is to choose to be present with a purpose. Intentionality means reframing your use of an app from a passive consumption habit to an active, goal-oriented practice. It requires asking why you are opening the app at that moment. Is it to learn something new? To support a peer? To connect with one specific person or engage with a larger community?This is a crucial shift because it puts you in control. Instead of letting an algorithm dictate your experience, you actively decide how to spend your time and energy. Whether you're speaking to a room of one or one thousand, being intentional ensures that every session has a purpose, which in turn fosters more meaningful interactions."having intentionality has increased my chances of connecting people at a deeper level."2. Priority: You Actualize What You PrioritizeBeyond simply managing your time, the second lesson is to consciously prioritize your attention. On an audio platform, this means prioritizing the rooms you join, the topics you engage with, and even what you choose to listen to—in essence, "prioritizing your ear." You can't be everywhere at once, so you must decide what conversations and connections are most aligned with your goals.For me, prioritizing Clubhouse as a platform for my podcast, "We Don't Play," was a game-changer. By consistently making it a key part of my content strategy, I generated new ideas and engaged with my audience in real-time. This focus was instrumental in a monumental achievement: releasing 131 podcast episodes just this year alone, out of a six-year journey. When you make something a priority, you dedicate the focus and resources necessary to bring it to life."When you prioritize, you actualize because what you're prioritizing, you're looking at. You're paying attention to it."3. Patience: The Lost Art of Digital ConnectionThe third lesson is perhaps the most counter-cultural in our fast-paced digital world: patience. Building genuine relationships takes time. On Clubhouse, I've seen simple connections evolve into friendships, business partnerships, and client referrals, but none of it happened overnight. Patience is the virtue required to navigate diverse conversations, but it's not always a passive act. Sometimes, people will test your patience, wanting to tell you off or challenge your perspective. It's in those moments that true patience is forged.A key practice of patience in an audio-only format is the discipline of letting people finish their thoughts completely. Resisting the urge to interrupt creates a space where people feel heard and respected, a stark contrast to the rapid-fire exchanges on other platforms. This practice of active, silent listening is fundamental to understanding, which is the bedrock of any real connection."listen and silent are the same. It's just scrabble differently. So I believe when you're silent and you're listening and you're patient with the person, you're taking time to respond as opposed to reacting based on what you're feeling."4. Consistency: Showing Up When No One is WatchingThe fourth lesson is about the quiet power of consistency. Building a presence, a community, or a reputation in any space depends on showing up regularly—especially when it feels like no one is paying attention. "Whether there's one person in this room or 5,000 or zero," the act of being there is what matters.This principle was baked into the very DNA of early Clubhouse. To earn the ability to start your own "club," you first had to prove your consistency by hosting open rooms for about a week. You had to put in the work before the platform's gamified system unlocked the keys. The reward followed the commitment. Years of this consistent presence produced connections that have become part of my daily lifestyle, but one story stands out. A woman once booked a call with me just to apologize. "For what?" I asked. She confessed that because I delivered valuable information so quickly, she couldn't take notes fast enough and had started secretly recording my audio. That was a profound, tangible testament to the impact of just showing up.5. Tenacity: The Engine for Everything ElseThe final and most powerful lesson is tenacity—the resilience that underpins the other four. Platforms evolve. Features change, communities shift, and the initial hype fades. Tenacity is the commitment to adapt and "move with the times" rather than abandoning the space when it's no longer what it once was. It's the decision to stay, even if the "app turns into Titanic."This isn't about stubbornness. It's about conviction. It's a deep belief in the value of the community you've helped build and a willingness to evolve with it. As the platform changes, tenacity reminds you that it's not about what you're sticking to, but what you believe in. It's about staying true to yourself and the people you serve, allowing you to see beyond temporary turmoil and continue building something of lasting value.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Conclusion: What Is Your Digital Platform Teaching You?After five years on a single app, the lessons are clear. The people I've met are life-changing, and true growth isn't found in chasing the next shiny object. It is forged through Intentionality, Priority, Patience, Consistency, and Tenacity. These five principles are more than just a strategy for Clubhouse; they are a blueprint for navigating any professional or personal endeavor in our digital world. They remind us that platforms are just tools; it is how we choose to use them that defines our impact, leaving us with one essential question to consider:When was the last time you did something for the first time?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Esra Ozturk talks about the future of fan loyalty platforms, and what it takes to create digital experiences that empower creators, fans, and brands to connect. Esra built products and sparked innovations at Meta, Uber, Zillow, and Instacart, now at Luffa she's leading the transformation into a next-generation fan loyalty platform. Host, Kevin Craine Do you want to be a guest? https://DigitalTransformationPodast.net/guest Do you want to be a sponsor? https://DigitalTransformationPodcast.net/sponsor
The Twenty Minute VC: Venture Capital | Startup Funding | The Pitch
Maor Shlomo is the Founder and CEO of Base44, the AI building platform that Maor built from idea to $80M acquisition by Wix, in just 8 months. Today the company serves millions of users and will hit $50M ARR by the end of the year. Before Base44, Maor was the Co-Founder and CTO of Explorium. AGENDA: 00:05 – 00:10: How Vibe Coding is Going to Kill Salesforce and SaaS 00:13 – 00:15: Do Vibe Coding platforms have any defensibility? 00:22 – 00:24: I am not worried about Replit and Lovable, I am worried about Google… 00:28 – 00:29: Margins do not matter, the price of the models will go to zero 00:31 – 00:32: Speed to copy has never been lower; has the technical moat been eroded? 00:47 – 00:48: How does Base44 beat Cursor? 00:56 – 00:57: Do not pay attention to competition: focus on your business 00:57 – 00:58: How Base44 is helped, not hurt by not being in Silicon Valley? 00:58 – 00:59: What percent of code will be written by AI in 12 months? 01:01 – 01:02: OpenAI or Anthropic: Why Maor is Long Anthropic? 01:03 – 01:04: If I could have any board member in the world it would be Jack Dorsey
From the archive: This episode was originally recorded and published in 2022. Our interviews on Entrepreneurs On Fire are meant to be evergreen, and we do our best to confirm that all offers and URL's in these archive episodes are still relevant. Josh Little is a teacher turned serial entrepreneur with four successful tech companies, multiple exits, and hundreds of millions of users. He's currently on a mission to bring more connection and community into the world with his latest product, Volley - a video messaging app. Tim Schmoyer's company, Video Creators, helps creators, brands, and business' reach a new audience on YouTube. So far their clients have grown by over 18 billion views and 81 million subscribers. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. Success is about reaching people and changing lives, not about how much money you can make. 2. Volley is the faster way to true human connection. 3. The limits of connection and communication only exist in our minds. Sponsor HighLevel - The ultimate all-in-one platform for entrepreneurs, marketers, coaches, and agencies. Learn more at HighLevelFire.com. Freedom Circle - A powerful community of entrepreneurs led by JLD. Are you ready to go from idea to income in 90-days? Visit Freedom-Circle.com to learn more.
On Today's Menu on Marsha's Plate We talk about Trump on his knees, Yolanda Adams and her genderless God....Pope Leo invitations for trans women to his table or not.. Listen on all streaming Platforms https://pod.link/1293033444 Here we talk about cultural events, entertainment news, and gender politics from a Black Trans feminist lens. This is Diamond Stylz archival work that preserves the histories, experiences, and contributions of a marginalized community that has been historically erased, overlooked, or misrepresented. We focus on people who identitfy as Black, trans, gay, or woman...or any combination of all of them. We have merch as well if you wanna support Marsha's Plate https://teespring.com/stores/marshasplate Reading Recommendations https://bookshop.org/shop/DiamondStylz #marshasplate #girlslikeus #boyslikeus #transgender #podcast #podsincolor #podernfamily #transisbeautiful #houston #lgbt #transmen #transwomen #blackfeminism #trans101 #trans #blacktranswomen #blacktransmen #houstonpride #indiepodcast #blacktranslivesmatter #lgbtqia #lgbtq #genderidentity #pride #blackgirlmagic #blackboyjoy #podcast
Did you know Amazon makes $37 billion a year—more than double the revenue of all the newspapers in the world combined—from its sponsored results alone? Yes, the same, spammy, sponsored results at the top of a search that bilk shoppers with fake or low-quality items and can starve legitimate businesses of traffic and revenue.This is one of the many insights shared by our guest this week, Tim Wu, in his new book, “The Age of Extraction: How Tech Platforms Conquered the Economy and Threaten Our Future Prosperity.” He argues that the defining story of the modern internet isn't openness or democratization, but rather wealth extraction: the ability of gatekeeping Big Tech platforms, such as Amazon, Facebook, or X, to take money from everyone else without actually providing net value in return. Platforms weaponize convenience, he writes, so switching to competitors or smaller platforms is designed to be exhausting. Add in AI technologies that foster emotional relationships with users, and our dependence on them may deepen even more.An author and professor at Columbia Law School, Wu served in the Biden administration as Special Assistant to the President for Technology and Competition Policy. He discusses with Bethany and Luigi why we should care about Big Tech value extraction and posits how Big Tech power arose in the first place: from centralized power to shareholder pressure, from poorly aligned corporate structures to nefarious intentions. Together, they also chart how we can make our way out of this era of extraction. They discuss the feasibility of treating Big Tech platforms like utilities, applying frameworks for structural separation between the platforms' various services, decentralizing digital network infrastructures through interoperability to allow users to switch more easily between different platforms, and how economic populism influences the political messaging around these issues. Ultimately, Wu makes the case for embracing a philosophy of decentralized capitalism to achieve a fairer and beneficial balance between public and private power. Read more from Tim Wu in ProMarket:The Consumer Welfare Standard is Too TaintedOver recent years, the antitrust law appears to be returning to its historical standard, the “competition and competitive process” standard, often referred to in the Supreme Court as the goal of “protecting competition.” In this post, Tim defends this trend for rule-of-law reasons and presents a realistic assessment of the legal system's capabilities and its limits.A Conversation with Tim WuA transcript of Tim Wu's keynote in conversation with Binyamin Appelbaum of The New York Times from the Stigler Center's annual Antitrust and Competition Conference archives. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.