Podcasts about Positioning

In this episode of the Real Estate Pros podcast, host Q Edmonds interviews Dre Medici, a successful entrepreneur and agency owner. Dre shares his journey from humble beginnings in Uruguay to building a thriving Instagram agency and investing in real estate. He discusses the importance of networking, overcoming challenges, and the strategies that have contributed to his success. Listeners gain insights into the real estate market, personal branding, and the power of relationships in business. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind: Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply Investor Machine Marketing Partnership: Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true 'white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com Coaching with Mike Hambright: Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a "mini-mastermind" with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming "Retreat", either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas "Big H Ranch"? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform! Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/ New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club —--------------------

Alex is Head of Ecosystem at Ark Labs. We discuss their new bitcoin payments protocol: Arkade. It can be used in combination with the lightning network to make self custody bitcoin usage more powerful and more accessible. This rip was in person, in Lugano. We are both here for the PlanB Forum.Alex B on Nostr: https://primal.net/alexbAlex B on X: https://x.com/bergealex4Ark Labs: https://arklabs.xyz/PlanB Forum: https://planb.lugano.ch/planb-forum/EPISODE: 182BLOCK: 920390PRICE: 915 sats per dollar(00:00:35) Arkade Activation Day in Lugano(00:03:11) What is Ark? Positioning vs. Lightning and L2s(00:04:32) Ark fundamentals: batching, VTXOs, and two-of-two with an operator(00:08:38) Double-spend risks and the operator trust model(00:10:24) Settling vs. zero conf: anchoring batches onchain(00:16:04) Beyond cheap payments: programmable offchain Bitcoin(00:18:12) Ark Lightning swaps and unilateral exits(00:21:01) Unilateral exit costs, trees of transactions, and anchoring cadence(00:26:17) Wallet UX: automating settlement and exposure management(00:27:22) Ark vs. Spark: security model and settlement feedback to L1(00:34:39) Onchain demand: Lightning realities, Spark cadence, Ark batches(00:36:59) Ark is tech, Arkade is implementation(00:37:45) Batch frequency and scaling: hundreds per batch, Taproot efficiency(00:38:41) Covenants soft fork would cut interactivity overhead(00:42:01) Users, servers, and always on clients: who runs what?(00:45:02) DeFi on Arkade: loans, new opcodes, and secondary markets(00:47:00) Credit, derivatives, and Bitcoinization(00:55:06) Company model: Ark Labs, open source Arkade, and revenue(01:01:02) Flagship apps strategy: neo-bank, swaps, prediction markets(01:07:05) Try it today: arkade.money PWA and roadmap to native apps(01:12:05) Operators landscape: competition, network effects, resilience(01:15:27) Closing thoughts: adapt, focus, and take the white pillmore info on the show: https://citadeldispatch.comlearn more about me: https://odell.xyz

Interested in selling your service business one day? Service firms can be difficult to sell, because there are so many variables and so much emphasis on the people. Never fear, it can be done - even for an amount you dream of! In this Quick Hit, you'll hear from Jonathan Baker, the Practice Lead of M&A for Punctuation and the Co-Founder of Monday Night Brewing. He advises small-to-midsize marketing services and digital firms on transactions and preparing for sale. Listen to the full episode here

Today we had the pleasure of hosting Obinna Isiadinso, Global Sector Lead for Data Center Investments at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group and the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. Obinna leads investment teams on valuation and execution considerations, reviews private equity and credit transaction structures, and participates in transaction negotiations in the Data Center and Cloud sectors in emerging markets globally. He is also the author of the Global Data Center Hub on Substack (linked here). His career spans private equity, infrastructure, and real assets. We were thrilled to host Obinna and learn from him on one of today's most dynamic topics. In our discussion, Obinna outlines the IFC's role as the private financing arm of the World Bank, shares his background in private equity and digital infrastructure, and describes his current global portfolio focus. He explains the IFC's structure and mission to achieve commercial returns while ensuring developmental impact, its ~$100 billion balance sheet, and dual role as a lender and equity investor. We cover the IFC's role in digital infrastructure and data centers, why data centers matter for emerging market development, the IFC's investment approach and capital structure, and Obinna's Substack, which tracks and summarizes global data center activity. We discuss global market sizing (U.S. ~30 GW; Northern Virginia 3–4 GW; Europe FLAP-D ~1-1.5 GW each; South America ~1 GW; Africa ~500 MW, ~250 MW in South Africa; India ~1.2-1.3 GW; China ~3-4 GW; Malaysia ~250 MW with ~1 GW pipeline in 3-5 years), the growth outlook with hyperscalers planning to add 30-50 GW in 3-5 years and roughly ~$400 billion capex this year, cost benchmarks ($10-12 million/MW plus chips), build times, EBITDA economics, current valuation multiples, the evolving fuel mix, and the IFC's sustainability criteria. Obinna summarizes the IFC's market-by-market approach to energy sourcing, rising power demand in emerging markets (and potential competition for scarce power), the IFC's initiatives to expand generation and grid capacity in Africa, and the Middle East's bid to be a ‘Switzerland of AI Infrastructure.' We ended by asking Obinna for key trends he's watching including diversification of AI models, continuous training workloads, and growing private credit participation. It was a fascinating conversation and we can't thank Obinna enough for joining and sharing his insights. We look forward to staying in touch. Mike Bradley noted that this will be a pivotal week for markets, with the FOMC rate decision on Wednesday, a slew of Q3 reports from Big AI/Tech and Energy/Electricity companies throughout this week, and an OPEC+ meeting being held over the weekend. In the bond market, the 10-year bond yield continues to be stuck in the 4% range. The Fed is expected to cut interest rates by 25bps both this week and again in December. On the oil market front, WTI price has slipped back to ~$60/bbl as oil traders seem fixated again on the 2026 oil supply surplus rather than Russian oil sanctions. OPEC+ is expected to raise November oil production by another 137kbpd (similar to October) at this weekend's OPEC+ meeting. At Veriten, we still envision oil markets in 2026 being a “tale of two markets” with 1H26 being challenged and 2H26 being pretty constructive. In global market news, President Javier Milei's party scored a major win in Argentina's legislative elections, sending bond yields lower, the peso modestly higher, and a 20%+ surge in the Argentina stock market. On the broader equity market front, the S&P 500 continues to reach new highs with this week's move mostly due to optimism of a China-U.S. trade deal. A handful of Big AI/Tech names will be reporting this week (AAPL, AMZN, GOOG, META & MSFT) which could increase broader marke

Bertrand revient sur l'évolution du rôle du PMM, et surtout sur ce qui fait la différence entre un bon et un excellent Product Marketer.Après 20 ans passés à des postes de direction Product Marketing aux États-Unis, il accompagne depuis +3 ans les entreprises B2B tech dans leur repositionnement et structuration de la fonction PMM.Avec franchise et clarté, il partage son parcours, ses apprentissages et les conseils concrets qui ont guidé sa carrière.

What does it really mean to build a legacy that lasts beyond your practice? How can you prepare for the next chapter without losing your sense of purpose? What if […] The post GPBC25 Series: Looking Ahead: Positioning Yourself for Retirement and Beyond with Ellen J.W. Gigliotti | POP 1284 appeared first on How to Start, Grow, and Scale a Private Practice | Practice of the Practice.

In this episode of Crazy Wisdom, host Stewart Alsop talks with Richard Easton, co-author of GPS Declassified: From Smart Bombs to Smartphones, about the remarkable history behind the Global Positioning System and its ripple effects on technology, secrecy, and innovation. They trace the story from Roger Easton's early work on time navigation and atomic clocks to the 1973 approval of the GPS program, the Cold War's influence on satellite development, and how civilian and military interests shaped its evolution. The conversation also explores selective availability, the Gulf War, and how GPS paved the way for modern mapping tools like Google Maps and Waze, as well as broader questions about information, transparency, and the future of scientific innovation. Learn more about Richard Easton's work and explore early GPS documents at gpsdeclassified.com, or pick up his book GPS Declassified: From Smart Bombs to Smartphones.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversationTimestamps00:00 – Stewart Alsop introduces Richard Easton, who explains the origins of GPS, its 12-hour satellite orbits, and his father Roger Easton's early time navigation work.05:00 – Discussion on atomic clocks, the hydrogen maser, and how technological skepticism drove innovation toward the modern GPS system.10:00 – Miniaturization of receivers, the rise of smartphones as GPS devices, and early mapping tools like Google Maps and Waze.15:00 – The Apollo missions' computer systems and precision landings lead back to GPS development and the 1973 approval of the joint program office.20:00 – The Gulf War's use of GPS, selective availability, and how civilian receivers became vital for soldiers and surveyors.25:00 – Secrecy in satellite programs, from GRAB and POPPY to Eisenhower's caution after the U-2 incident, and the link between intelligence and innovation.30:00 – The myth of the Korean airliner sparking civilian GPS, Reagan's policy, and the importance of declassified documents.35:00 – Cold War espionage stories like Gordievsky's defection, the rise of surveillance, and early countermeasures to GPS jamming.40:00 – Selective availability ends in 2000, sparking geocaching and civilian boom, with GPS enabling agriculture and transport.45:00 – Conversation shifts to AI, deepfakes, and the reliability of digital history.50:00 – Reflections on big science, decentralization, and innovation funding from John Foster to SpaceX and Starlink.55:00 – Universities' bureaucratic bloat, the future of research education, and Richard's praise for the University of Chicago's BASIC program.Key InsightsGPS was born from competing visions within the U.S. military. Richard Easton explains that the Navy and Air Force each had different ideas for navigation satellites in the 1960s. The Navy wanted mid-Earth orbits with autonomous atomic clocks, while the Air Force preferred ground-controlled repeaters in geostationary orbit. The eventual compromise in 1973 created the modern GPS structure—24 satellites in six constellations—which balanced accuracy, independence, and resilience.Atomic clocks made global navigation possible. Roger Easton's early insight was that improving atomic clock precision would one day enable real-time positioning. The hydrogen maser, developed in 1960, became the breakthrough technology that made GPS feasible. This innovation turned a theoretical idea into a working global system and also advanced timekeeping for scientific and financial applications.Civilian access to GPS was always intended. Contrary to popular belief, GPS wasn't a military secret turned public after the Korean airliner tragedy in 1983. Civilian receivers, such as TI's 4100 model, were already available in 1981. Reagan's 1983 announcement merely reaffirmed an existing policy that GPS would serve both military and civilian users.The Gulf War proved GPS's strategic value. During the 1991 conflict, U.S. and coalition forces used mostly civilian receivers after the Pentagon lifted “selective availability,” which intentionally degraded accuracy. GPS allowed troops to coordinate movement and strikes even during sandstorms, changing modern warfare.Secrecy and innovation were deeply intertwined. Easton recounts how classified projects like GRAB and POPPY—satellites disguised as scientific missions—laid technical groundwork for navigation systems. The crossover between secret defense projects and public science fueled breakthroughs but also obscured credit and understanding.Ending selective availability unleashed global applications. When the distortion feature was turned off in May 2000, GPS accuracy improved instantly, leading to new industries—geocaching, precision agriculture, logistics, and smartphone navigation. This marked GPS's shift from a defense tool to an everyday utility.Innovation's future may rely on decentralization. Reflecting on his father's era and today's landscape, Easton argues that bureaucratic “big science” has grown sluggish. He sees promise in smaller, independent innovators—helped by AI, cheaper satellites, and private space ventures like SpaceX—continuing the cycle of technological transformation that GPS began.

That's a wrap on season 3 of the Brand Shorthand Podcast! Join Mark and Lorraine as they go back through some of the biggest brand moves and marketing trends seen throughout 2025. The positioning duo will touch on AI, storytelling with long-form video, the loss of high-profile CEOs, the ongoing battle of the healthy sodas, and of course, the importance of positioning. Join Mark and Lorraine for 30-ish as they discuss all things marketing, advertising, and of course … positioning!

2025-43 : Did the process work? Or should they restart?

In today's bonus episode of iGaming Daily, we dive into Betsson's latest Q3 results with an exclusive interview featuring CEO Pontus Lindwall. With revenue up 6% year on year to €295.8 million and 12% growth over the first nine months of 2024, Betsson continues to strengthen its global footprint, but what's driving that success?Host Viktor Kayed sits down with Lindwall to unpack the company's performance and strategy, covering a wide range of topics including:Betsson's growing presence in Italy, highlighted by its front-of-shirt deal with Inter MilanExpansion and opportunities across Latin AmericaNavigating tight regulations in Western EuropeThe acquisition of Sporting SolutionsAnd a look ahead to the 2026 World CupTune in for insights straight from one of the industry's leading operators and discover how Betsson is positioning itself for the future of global gaming.Host: Viktor KayedGuest: Pontus LindwallIntro: Charlie HornerProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor:  Anaya McDonaldiGaming Daily is also now on TikTok. Make sure to follow us at iGaming Daily Podcast (@igaming_daily_podcast) | TikTok for bite-size clips from your favourite podcast.Finally, remember to check out Optimove at https://hubs.la/Q02gLC5L0 or go to Optimove.com/sbc to get your first month free when buying the industry's leading customer-loyalty service.

Preparing and Positioning - Part 1 | Brad Joss & Aimee Talbot | Paradox Church Sunday Gathering

Preparing and Positioning - Part 2 | Brad Joss & Aimee Talbot | Paradox Church Sunday Gathering

Welcome to Friday Coaching Clinic Episodes. These are LIVE coaching session snippets where you have the opportunity to learn as both client and coach. I encourage you to think about how you might coach through this topic as a coach or how this situation may support you as a client. A reminder about these episodes: This snippet is just one way of coaching through this topic. Each coach has their own unique voice, personality and confidence to best support their clients and I invite you to find yours.  This week: How to Use AI to Perfect Your Coaching Positioning

Global investors are rethinking diversification as APAC markets investing takes center stage. As monetary policies diverge and growth paths split across regions, Asia Pacific is emerging as a key source of resilience — and opportunity — in global portfolios.In this episode of The Bid, host Oscar Pulido speaks with Alex Brazier, Global Head of Investment & Portfolio Solutions, and Navin Saigal, Head of Global Fixed Income for Asia Pacific. Joining from Singapore, they share on-the-ground insights into how investor sentiment, policy divergence, and portfolio positioning are evolving across the region.Alex explains how investors' appetite for risk has returned — with the strongest demand for equities and alternatives now coming from APAC. Navin highlights why Asia's fixed income markets have outperformed this year, as conservative fiscal policy and lower inflation have driven steady yields and strong demand. Together, they unpack what these shifts mean for APAC markets investing and global diversification.Sources: BlackRock Investor Survey, September 2025Insights include:· How global investors are reallocating toward Asia Pacific assets· Why policy divergence between the U.S. and Asia is creating opportunities in fixed income· The growing appeal of short-duration bonds and local-currency exposure· How correlations between the U.S. dollar, equities, and bonds are shifting· The renewed focus on gold and liquid alternatives as portfolio diversifiersKey moments in this episode:00:00 Introduction to Global Market Trends00:32 Focus on Asia's Market Dynamics00:51 Insights from Investment Experts01:53 Investor Sentiments and Diversification05:01 Opportunities in Asia's Fixed Income Markets07:25 Equity Market Opportunities11:03 Currency Risk and Hedging Strategies13:55 Challenges in Asia Pacific Investments16:05 Diversification Beyond Traditional Assets19:22 Looking Ahead: Market Predictions for 202521:53 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes Check out this playlist to learn more about tariff volatility and global markets: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3iiZbbNz3eI08zXGZ4n3LI

How do you win clients without being reduced to competing on price? To consistently land the right clients, you must position yourself as the obvious choice long before pricing even enters the conversation.In this episode of The Agency Blueprint Podcast, we discuss how agencies can stand out in a crowded market without relying on price as the deciding factor. We explore how confidence, consultation, and insight consistently outperform relationship-based selling, drawing inspiration from The Challenger Sale. Listen in to learn why simply agreeing with a prospect's assumptions is a losing strategy, and how real value comes from reframing the conversation. Key Questions:[02:40] Are you defaulting to agreement with your clients instead of bringing your own perspective?[08:51] When clients push back on your pricing, do you reflect on your value articulation or immediately assume you're charging too much?[15:51] Do your clients feel safer with you than without you?What You'll Discover: [01:24] Insights from The Challenger Sale book and how confident, consultative sellers outperformed traditional relationship-based sellers.[02:40] The importance of offering your own expert perspective instead of simply echoing clients' ideas. [04:49] The importance of asking the right questions to uncover the real business problems clients are facing.[07:56] Why being compared solely on price means you've already lost the positioning battle.[10:28] How reframing conversations has helped agencies triple prices while maintaining strong close rates.[12:26] How clients evaluate risk and why showing how you mitigate that risk is essential to winning projects.[14:36] Why even a small percentage lift in results can dramatically multiply a client's investment.[16:00] Understand that the best agencies make clients feel safer saying yes than risking a no.

Christian College Sex Comedy: Part 14 Wagers In 30 parts, By FinalStand. Listen to the podcast at Explicit Novels.             An army is one man's courage and a thousand men's discipline    "Oh! Pay up, pay up," Opal called out. "Damn," bitched Rio. "I keep hoping my boy Zane will develop some standards, but oh, well." "They were betting on you bringing me back for sex?" Paige whispered, but her desire was glowing bright. I shook my head and chuckled. "Don't worry about it; I still see you as a whirling vortex of passionate lust," I assured her. We passed around the Chinese screens that separated my area from the rest of the floor and I was relieved to see everyone but Barbie Lynn had left, and Barbie had curled up on the near side of the bed and was still asleep. As we moved around the bed, Paige's resolve began to falter. "Sit down, let's talk," I said softly. Paige was clearly confused. "The most powerful tool in sex is the brain," I continued. "I want to know you a little better first." "I should be great at this," she replied. "How many boys have you kissed?" I asked as we sat down. She looked surprised by the question. "Two," was her curt response. "Zane, I want you to take my virginity." Now it was my turn to be surprised, but I was only put off for a moment. "Tell me about those two times," I persisted. Paige had started tugging her shirt out from her skirt and was clearly not pleased with my request. "Zane, didn't you hear me? I want you to pop my cherry, break me in, fuck my cunt, whatever you want to call it," she told me. "Yes," I nodded, "and I'm looking forward to that, but answer the question please." "I, I've been kissed by two boys, one kiss per boy," she replied, but I could tell there was more to it. "Do I have to play twenty questions with you?" I gave an exasperated sigh. Paige flushed with anger. "Fine, damn it," she growled. "The first boy, I paid to kiss me on the lips. He did so, and he looked at me like he wanted to throw up." That looked like it hurt her to admit. "The second time, it was a joke, a dare. I closed my eyes, he kissed me on the lips, and then I heard the applause. They congratulated him for kissing the freak," she recited with anguish. "They laughed at me while I ran away." She looked furious and miserable at the same time. I tilted her head up toward me. I let my first kiss barely brush her lips. I let her study my reaction, and then I kissed her again. The third kiss pressed our lips together, and on the fourth, our tongues touched. The fifth saw her wrap her arms around me and hold me tight for nearly a minute. She was panting for breath when we came up for air. I used that moment to pick her up and place us both farther into the bed. "Eep!" she exclaimed, then she started to giggle. I straddled her and dove in to nibble her neck. Paige beat at my chest with her fists but couldn't stop laughing. "That tickles!" We fell back into kissing for a while; Paige didn't need to rush into sex despite her declared desires. "Shouldn't we take our clothes off?" I responded to that by sitting up, grabbing her shirt in both hands over the breasts, and ripping it open. Buttons went flying everywhere and Paige's eyes expressed her shock. I reached for her bra but Paige's hands flew to mine. "Wait," she gasped. "It unsnaps from the front." I even let her open the bra for me, exposing her ghostly breasts and pale pink areolas and nipples. I shifted down Paige's body and latched my lips to her left breast, causing her to cry out in pleasure. "Oh, damn," she purred, "this is so much better in real life." I wasn't sure I knew what that meant, or that I even wanted to know. I feasted on each nipple and breast in turn until they were fully engorged and bright, rosy pink from my attention. She'd spread her legs wide open and was humping her hips up against me. I pulled away long enough to get my shirt off before descending on her for kisses once more. In the midst of that, we rolled over where she grabbed me by the side of the head and covered my face with butterfly kisses. "I've always wanted to do that," she beamed pure joy at me. I moved my hands down her ribs, waist, and hips until I was able to pull up her skirt and grab her ass. Paige aggressively humped me in response, smiling at me and breathing heavy. Without any urging, Paige pushed up my body until she dangled her breast against my lips. I greedily sucked one in, teasing her nipple with my teeth. Paige yelped but followed me down without comment, cradling my head into her chest and rocking me back and forth. "Careful, Honey, he's addictive," Barbie Lynn sleepily intervened. "He's going to take my virginity," Paige exulted. "Is he now?" she grinned at me. "She's asked; I'm considering it, but I want to know she's really ready for it first," I mumbled back between mouthfuls of tit. "Wait," she panted, "you promised me." "Paige, Rule #7 for guys: when sex is involved, we lie," I informed her. "Oh, what lie did you tell Barbie Lynn?" Paige inquired. "He forces me to orgasm so he can bask in my post-orgasmic bliss," Barbie Lynn sighed dreamily. "Besides," I said, as I ran my hands through her fine white hair and tucked a few locks behind her ears, "I am not saying we won't do it, but you are an incredibly tough read and we aren't going to do something I don't think you need." "How come you get to decide?" Paige sounded annoyed. "I'm the only guy you've approached who you didn't find on an escort service website; we are in my bed; and, oh, yeah, I've had sex hundreds of times and you are in all ways a virgin," I listed off the reasons. "Paige, you only get to do this 'first time' once, and I would like it to be something you love and want to do again and again." "Well, I know what I want. I am in your bed and you're half-naked already," she emphasized by grinding her pelvis into me. "I'm also on top and I don't think you can get rid of me that easily." "This one is a little firecracker," Barbie Lynn chuckled. "She's that," I commented, "but you should always be leery of someone who thinks they are always right." My words didn't stop me from pressing my cock up against Paige's twat. "We could always have a little butt-sex instead," I teased. "No!" Paige squeaked. "You are huge and my asshole is tiny." "Oh, God," I laughed. "You actually looked at your ass in a mirror." Paige blushed furiously. "Listen, Paige, trust me on this. You can go into town and find some college guy who will jump at the chance to screw you. What you have to wonder is how much he'll care about you and your needs as well as how good he is at sex. Let's get naked." "Finally," Paige mocked. She rolled off and shed her clothes so fast they left angry red tracks down her legs. I took my time but Paige didn't seem to mind. She reached out and ran a hand over my bicep and shoulder. "He's real enough," Barbie Lynn assured her quietly. "How did you know what I was thinking?" Paige mused. At least she only implied Barbie Lynn was stupid. "Paige, sweetie, how many of us FFU girls expect to be able to choose our man, much less one worth having? And don't you be disparaging of Zane, now, either. I can smell your arousal from here," Barbie Lynn said with a sexy curve to her lips. Paige was thinking of her retort when she gasped as I caught her distracted and slipped two fingers along the folds of her cunt. When her razor sharp focus latched onto me once more, I pushed her onto her back and mounted her. Her legs splayed out to either side and the location of her hips against my stomach reminded me of how narrow her hips were, narrower than even Iona's. She still did her best to wrap her legs around me as she placed her hands on my shoulders. "Are you going to make me scream?" she asked nervously. "Every girl is different so don't worry about it," I grinned. "Besides, I can tell you'll be really good at this." "How can you know I'll be any good at sex?" Paige snapped. Yes, that was the sore point I was looking for. "Your eyes sparkle when you touch me, you react instinctively to my touch, you are in good physical shape, and you're very sensitive all over your body," I explained. "What you saw as fooling around was me mapping out how your body works and where your erogenous zones were. No two women are the same and I love exploring. Now I'm getting back to it." I began placing kisses along her sternum, down toward her navel. Her stomach pulsed when I kissed the belly button. "Oh, aha," Paige moaned. I licked and stroked the area around her navel, causing her torso to gyrate from the sexual stimulation. "Umm, that feels nice." Unlike previous encounters with other women where I avoided the cunt while I worked around it, I instead placed one hand immediately to the area, squeezing two fingers into her cunt and wiggling them around. I left the clit alone for now because I was encouraging a slow boil, not a flash burn. I wanted Paige in an erotically charged high before I challenged her vaginal virginity. Paige's skin had this false translucent quality to it that was exciting to watch. You could track the arousal of a touch by the blood rushing to the skin around the excited area. Physically, she could conceal nothing, and she was far from sexually experienced enough to stifle her vocalizations of pleasure. "I just want to be fucked," she moaned," I just want to be fucked, aha, oh." Her words said one thing but her body expressed its desire for more excitement. "No, she groaned as she ground her hips against my lips. When I stabbed my tongue to her clit, she acted like a jolt of electricity arched through her body. Now, when I've performed cunnilingus on a girl, I expect a bit of movement; I'm doing something wrong if she lays there. Paige was all over the place, pulling away then thrusting back as well as rolling her hips rapidly side to side. At the moment her thrashing turned into trembles, I withdrew my lips and fingers, causing Paige to whimper and look down at me. "Huh?" she pleaded. I gave her a mischievous grin, then blew on her clit. Paige hiccupped, then threw her head down on the bed violently. I began sucking on the inside of her thighs for about one minute, letting her settle down, then leapt on her clit with my tongue once more. "Oh, God!" Paige squealed. I moved my tongue off, trading off with two fingers parting her labia and flicking her clit with my thumb. I alternated back and forth over five minutes until I noticed Paige was sobbing and tearing up the sheets with her fists. "Have mercy, Zane," Barbie Lynn whispered. I gave a quick nod before placing my lips around Paige's clit and sucking on it with growing intensity plus twirling the tip of my tongue along its tip. I also made tiny fucking motions with two fingers into her cunt. She didn't last thirty seconds. "Oh, my, God, Zane!" she growled. She wasn't loud but she rumbled her orgasm from deep in her chest. It was kind of surprising, coming from such a lithe, ephemeral being. Paige was sucking down further sounds internally so that they were merely sobs. I crawled up to her side, rested sidewise, propped up by an elbow, and placed a hand on her stomach as I watched over her. When she started gasping for air, her eyes locked with mine once more. Paige feebly pushed on my chest so I let her push me on my back. She struggled to rise over me, then collapsed on my chest. "I, that was, you still didn't fuck me," she wheezed. I sighed in frustration, pulled Paige on top of me, chest to chest, and then began playing slap-happy with her ass. "Ow,ow, ow, ow, ow," she squalled. "Stop that; I bruise easily," she added, with tears in her eyes. "Damn it, woman, is it going to kill you to accept that I know what I'm doing?" I responded angrily. "Since you are clearly clueless, what we just did was foreplay. I wanted to relax your body before we moved to the next step." Paige had enough common sense to look embarrassed but not enough to keep quiet. "Well my ass still hurts," she pouted. "What?" I questioned. "Did you say you wanted me to hurt your ass?" I grabbed each ass cheek and pulled them apart. "No!" she squeaked, "You are too big." She grabbed my hands in her smaller grip and tried to pry them off. We rocked back and forth until we rolled over. She struggled but I soon ended on top of her, Paige on her stomach, and my legs prying hers open. "No, no," she pleaded as she felt my cock resting on her ass cleft. "Relax," I whispered into Paige's ear, "have you ever heard of doggy style?" "You aren't, going to have anal sex with me?" she gulped. I pushed my body up and after a moment, Paige followed, pressing her back against my torso once more. "I'd never do anything to you that you didn't want me to," I assured her, "though I am going to have you begging me to bugger you before this semester is over." "Uh-uh," Paige assured me, "not going to happen," but she did wiggle her ass against me playfully, testing my resolve. I balanced on one hand so I could use the other to pull her hair away from one side to the other. Her neck, ear, and the side of her face were now revealed. I sucked on her shoulder while I repositioned my cock so that it slid down her ass, past her anus and cunt, so that it pressed along her pubic mound from below. Paige began humming pleasurably and gyrating her hips against me. I put my free hand on her breast and massaged it as well. "Promise me you won't keep me waiting this time," she murmured. "Promise you'll take me." "Of course I will, Paige. You have to relax and enjoy yourself and not get worked up about us having sex," I comforted her. She rocked against me and I pushed back. "Nice and slow," I cautioned her. "I'm not going anywhere." With a little effort, she did as I requested. I kept running my hand down from her breast to her stomach, each time going a little farther down. She'd tilted her shoulders and neck so that we could kiss but she also found my lips on her neck to be tantalizing. I was tricky enough that I had my cockhead parting her puffy lips before she realized it. In fact, I had three separate penetrations that elicited moans, then she looked up at me. "Don't be afraid," I told her sympathetically. "Remember the faces of all the girls you've seen me with while we are having sex and know that it is going to be just as good for you." Paige looked down at the mattress and nodded her head. She pushed back but it wasn't easy. Her entrance felt like a vice restricting my entrance. Even totally wet, her vaginal muscles were blocking my progress initially. I patiently kept at it, incrementally advancing with each coaxing touch. When I brushed against her hymen, Paige didn't even recognize the moment had come. I subtly brought my arm down to her stomach and wrapped her up in my arm while teasing her ear with my teeth. "Yip!" Paige exclaimed as I pierced her virginity. "Oh, God, it burns," she sobbed. I gave her a few seconds to adjust before penetrating even deeper. "No," she moaned, and tried to pull away, but I didn't let her. "Zane," she pleaded for me to let her go. "It hurts." I kept at it. "I never thought it would hurt this bad, please." She gave one final gasp as I pressed the final inch into her, then we remained there, locked in sexual congress while she wept and trembled underneath me. I considered it a minor miracle Paige had remained on her hands and knees as we reached this point. Now I had to get her past the stage where pain dominated pleasure. "We'll move when you feel you are ready," I instructed her. Paige nodded, then nothing else for some time. She caught me off guard when she flexed her grasp on my cock. "Umm," she purred. "Did you feel that?" My groan was my reply. Paige pulled away a tiny bit until the pain kicked in and she stopped. Seconds later she repeated the process, withdrawing several inches, then reversing the procedure and allowing me deeper in once more. "It hurts less," she admitted. A moment later as she shifted to a faster rhythm, "it is really quite nice." "You might want to ask Zane how he is doing," Barbie Lynn chided Paige. "But I honestly don't care," Paige noted. "If you want to do this again, you might want to start caring," Barbie informed her. I winked at the blonde sex angel. "Zane, do you like having sex with me?" Paige asked in a much kinder tone than normal. She must have been truly appreciating the lovemaking she was receiving. "It feels like you are trying to rip my cock off," I ground out. "You are damn tight, then you are adding those contractions on top of that. I may not be able to have sex for a week." "Paige, I like you, but if Zane is telling the truth, I going to seriously rearrange your anatomy," Barbie Lynn promised with dangerous intent. "I apologize," Paige pouted. To prove how sorry she wasn't, Paige rotated her hips down then back up several times rapidly. So that's how she wanted to play it. I placed both hands on her shoulders and let her make a few more tentative moves before slamming my member all the way in. "Oh, fuck," she gasped. I slowly drew back my full length, then rocketed back in time and time again. Paige was sweating and panting from earlier exertions but now she was barely hanging on. Slap, slap, slap, my hips mashed against her ass. Paige gave a breathless grunt each time I drilled her, and that was followed by a relieved sigh as I pulled back. By the desperation in her voice, I knew she wouldn't last much longer. "Oh! My! Fucking! God!" she growled loudly. I now knew what it felt like to have put my cock in a fire hose and had some asshat turn the water on. Paige's cunt juice had been plentiful the first time she had an orgasm. This time they were copious and forceful, and my cock was simply in the way; what got past stung the hell out of my ball sack. Normally I have really good control over my sexual climax but I was being sorely tested. Worse, I couldn't simply pop out of Paige because that would cause her pain. The odds of her using birth control were next to nil and none, so it fell to me to find something to center my mind and not ejaculate. "Zane, are you okay?" Barbie Lynn said in a hushed, worried tone. I could only nod. Paige was erratically pushing up and down on my cock, to the point where I grabbed her hips in order to not have a nasty accident when her muscles relaxed and my overstimulation ended. "Don't, move," I panted painfully to Paige. Paige didn't quite comply but I didn't blame her because her arms gave out and she slumped forward. I held up her rear by my hold on her hips. I carefully let her slide off my cock and finish splaying out on the bed. I sat back on my heels, breathing deeply and fighting for control. "Come here, Baby," Barbie Lynn ordered, picking up on my distress. I moved over Paige's leg toward Barbie and she joined me by turning around, meeting me half way. "I've got this," she purred, as she wrapped my cock in one hand and placed her lips over the head. Despite Paige's vaginal fluids and some blood, Barbie loved it. She bobbed up and down twice before my resolve finally crumbled. "Cumming," I gasped. Barbie Lynn shot me a quick grin, then pumped and sucked with renewed vigor. When I started ejaculating, Barbie Lynn made some half-hearted swallowing efforts but I knew she was holding something back. I smiled at her as I ran my hand through her honeyed locks. When I finished unloaded into Barbie Lynn's mouth, I pulled her up, she leaned into my body, and we kissed. I tasted my semen on my tongue as we swapped fluids. Barbie Lynn licked her lips in a highly sensual manner as we broke our kiss. She gave me a little wink, acknowledging how much I'd changed her in our short time together: kinky, sexy, and beautiful. "Whoa," whimpered Paige as she opened her eyes and looked in our direction. "That was intense." She sighed and took a deep breath. "I should have mentioned this earlier, you didn't need to pull out. I had, issues when I was little and my ovaries were removed. I'm never going to have children." I switched back to Paige and kissed her on the forehead. This was probably time for some sympathy, if Paige had been anything approaching a normal girl. "You fucking wait to tell me this now?" I chided her. "Do you have any idea the panic attack you put me through? I was stuck inside you and you were so damn hot I nearly lost it. I was trying to figure out what I was going to tell your father, damn it!" "Father?" she seemed confused for a second, then, "Oh. Why would I ever marry you?" "I'm a billionaire philanthropist genius playboy," I joked. "You are Iron Man?" she mocked me. "Or Batman, your choice," I volleyed back. "If you hadn't made me feel so fantastic right now, I'd recode your computer to operate in Mandarin," she snickered. "Iron Man is one of my heroes and I will not have him mocked by the likes of you." "Clearly, the first round of spanking didn't work, but I'm nothing if not persistent," I glowered. Paige's hands flew to her vulnerable and still rather red backside. "Don't you dare," she threatened. I pivoted, she flinched, then I leaned down and kissed her ass cheek. "What?" she murmured then I kissed her again and again. I slowly pried her hands away and soon had planted little signs of affection all over her tender, sore flesh. "Kiss ass," Paige teased. I had to wonder if she was taking social lessons from Rio. "Tell me something: how did you get to be so quiet? I'm normally pretty good at not letting anyone sneak up on me but you have done it to me twice already," I asked. "That's not a totally stupid question," Paige answered. "I have been basically friendless most of my life, if you don't count the internet. I was small, different, and was picked on. I learned to be quiet and go unnoticed," she explained. "I admit to having a harder time with you than with most people." "Because I lived out in the jungle and became more observant?" I queried. "No," she sighed in exasperation. "Because I've wanted to grab you and drag you back to my room since I first laid eyes on you, Zane. Mentally, you are unremarkable, but physically, you scream out 'Sex, sex, sex!'" That observation made Barbie Lynn laugh out loud. My pained and confused expression only caused them to laugh louder. Someday I'm going to come out on top of one of these exchanges. Then I'm going to run away from school because I want to leave on a high note and I'm not likely to ever win a second time. Girls, Relationships and the Chancellor too. "Zane? God Damn it, Zane!" Raven screeched at me as she barged into my room. What could I say? Barbie Lynn was halfway under the sheets but her tumultuous breasts were clearly exposed. Paige was totally naked, face down on the other side of me but had clearly been fucked thoroughly and her tight pale ass spanked hard. Oh, yeah, and I was kneeling between the two, totally naked as well. I vaulted over Barbie Lynn (who was closer to the entrance and Raven) because I didn't want to hurt her injured knee, snatched up my robe, and put it on. "Very complicated, long story, we can laugh about it later," I dazzled Raven. I took her by the elbow and headed her out of my bedroom. "Why don't we study on the far side of the main Solarium?" The look of betrayal in Raven's eyes destroyed any doubt that she was crushing on me in a big way. For the love of God, I really needed to find some lesbians to hang out with because these straight chicks were driving me crazy. Before we could leave, Iona nearly piled into us. "I'm sorry, Zane. She slipped past me," Iona apologized. "I only wanted to talk with him and, and he was in bed with yet another girl," Raven bitched. "I'm still ready to study with you," I offered. "How can we study if you are always having sex with other women?" she stomped her foot in frustration. Iona shot me a worried look. I put a hand on Raven's shoulder and made eye contact. "Raven, I promise you we will get this project done, you'll get your good grade, and I'll carry my part of the project. I'm here for you," I assured Raven. "You, you aren't giving any thought about us, our project together," was her accusation. "What do you want me to do?" I asked evenly. "I, I think I should go to Ms. Goodswell and request another partner," Raven sighed. I looked to Iona who looked to the living area past the Jacuzzi. "Ms. Goodswell is right over there," Iona indicated our teacher who was sitting with Dana and five other teachers who had come in while I was, busy. "Your place has controlled access," Iona answered my unasked question as to why I had so many other educators in my place. "Bazz's people can 'accidentally' step in." Raven was not deterred by the other teachers hanging around Virginia as she made a beeline across the room. At least she was polite enough to wait while Virginia disengaged from the others so she could talk to us. "Raven, Zane, how can I help you?" Ms. Goodswell inquired, yet I had a sneaking suspicion that she was way ahead of the situation. "Ms. Goodswell," Raven started, "I really need to get a new project partner." "Why is that, Raven?" Virginia asked. "We simply aren't working out," she sounded exasperated. "And, I think the other girls were right; I don't feel safe around him," she tacked on. I lowered my head and sighed. This sucked. "Very well. Zane, do you want a new partner?" Virginia turned to me. "Sure, whatever. If Raven doesn't feel safe, she deserves someone new," I shrugged. "Alright, then, but I want you two to know a few things," Virginia began. "First off: Raven, I don't like being lied to." She held up a hand to forestall Raven's protest. "You were so uncomfortable with Zane's presence that you came up to his dorm uninvited, asked his whereabouts, and went into his bedroom unescorted. At what point in time did you feel unsafe?" "He was in bed with two girls, Barbie Lynn Masters and Paige Zeller," Raven said angrily. "Did you ask Zane what was going on or did you simply assume something and storm out?" Virginia stated. Raven opened her mouth, then shut it. "Now, do you think I assigned you to Zane solely because you answered one question incorrectly?" "You mean why I didn't want Zane as a partner initially?" Raven suggested. "Precisely. Raven, you scored the tenth highest placement score for English. That is why you are in my room, I have the top twenty freshmen in my class. Do you know what Zane's placement rank was?" "I don't know," she finally admitted. "He was second," she informed Raven, and me. I had no idea and really, such things don't interest me. "Raven, I didn't place you with Zane to help out Zane; I put you with Zane to help you." "Oh," Raven said in a small voice. "I didn't know." "What you have committed is reverse discrimination," Virginia explained. "Everyone assumes that since Zane is attractive, that he's not too bright. It is the same way most guys perceive bubbly blondes with big breasts, mentally insignificant." "Finally, your real problem with Zane is not his intelligence, his self-control, or the time he is willing to spend with you; it is his libido," Ms. Goodswell instructed. "You may want to ask yourself why you are upset with what Zane does with other students in his spare time and discuss this with him. He is standing right next to you, after all, and he could be elsewhere if he desired." "Very well," Raven conceded, "I'll work with Zane as long as he agrees to not get distracted while we are together." She looked to me for confirmation. "Agreed, I mean, I will try," I responded. Raven didn't seem totally satisfied but she allowed my promise to stand. "Let's get started." "Good," she said, but then she hesitated while she looked around at the other girls in various groups in the Solarium. "Let's go back to my room," I suggested. Seeing her skeptical look, "I need my tablet and then we can pick out a place and start studying." "Why do I need to come with you?" she glared. "With you, I'll be safe," I informed her. "Sometimes the ladies can forget I am here to get a degree and you help remind them of that with your seriousness." Raven shrugged and followed me back to my room. When we got there, Barbie Lynn was sitting on the edge of the bed, pulling up her socks. She was otherwise dressed. Paige was spread-eagled on the middle of the bed, staring up at the ceiling. "Hey, Zane," Paige smiled. "Are you finished?" "We came back for his tablet, Paige," Raven growled. "We haven't started yet. Stay where you are; we have work to do." Paige's mouth dropped open in shock and outrage (Raven is a freshman, after all). I was happy Raven didn't call Paige a slut because I knew that was actively on her mind. I grabbed my backpack, retrieved another bathrobe from the wardrobe, and walked over to Paige. "Here you go. Take a little time in the Jacuzzi," I suggested. "I have nothing to wear," Paige rolled her eyes at my stupidity. "Go naked; you have a beautiful body that's a pleasure to behold," I told her. Paige studied me, weighing my dare to her. Barbie Lynn shot me a smile and a wink for me pressuring Paige. "Zane, we need to go," Raven insisted. She took hold of my elbow but didn't try to move me. "As you wish," I bowed to Raven. As we turned to leave, Paige called out, "The Princess Bride!" she laughed. Raven looked at me to make some sense of that. "It is a movie I like; it's old," I explained. We trecked out but I deviated from our course long enough to grab Rio, who was publically molesting Mercy. "Take it to an alcove, you two," I said softly. Rio challenged my stance but then we both started chuckling. "I can't promise to keep it quiet, Bro," she winked. "Stuff your panties in her mouth," I suggested. "I'm not wearing any," she grinned. "Put her panties in her mouth, then," I told her. "She's not wearing any either," Rio teased me. "Fine, I give up," I threw up my hands and continued off with Raven. "Was it like this for you, before you came here?" Raven asked me once we sat down in an isolated area. "It was different but similar. After a few weeks everyone knew everyone else, so it wasn't like us kids weren't aware of one another," I explained. "So you've always lived like this?" Raven sounded incredulous. "Raven, how would you describe your relationship with your parents?" I began. "I'm not sure what that has to do with anything but my father died of cancer when I was twelve and I have been raised by my mother ever since," Raven explained. "We are pretty close and we've both worked to raise my brother, who is four years younger than me." "So you had a partnership of sorts," I filled in. Raven nodded. "My parents and I were very close; we did almost everything together, and I was a part of their lives for as long as I can remember. When they died, I went to the far side of the globe to guardians who didn't want me hanging around, yet expected me to act in a very restricted moral way with no training or incentive." "My Uncle only had enough time for me to punish me for not living up to his moral code while my Aunt parroted his beliefs. I guess it was only natural that I formed my own code of ethics and relationships. I had a strong sexual curiosity and personality that drove me to express it," I added. "Where is this going?" Raven sighed. "It means I have no serious understanding of monogamy outside of marriage. Worse, I have little respect for restrictive authority. Mindless discipline strikes me as unnatural. Don't get me wrong, though; I don't really care how you, or anyone, choses to live, as long as you respect that right in others." "Couldn't you have conformed to what the rest of us want at this school?" Raven countered. "This is a Christian Girls School and we shouldn't be having sex." "I think we have a fundamental misunderstanding here," I nodded. "We both accept that I want to have sex, but why do you assume that some girls here don't?" "That is not what matters," Raven declared. "What matters is that they wouldn't be succumbing to temptation if you weren't here." "That, I have to agree with you there," I admitted, which stunned Raven. "I doubt any of the girls I am with now would go trolling the local college for guys to score with." "So you see what a problem you are and how you shouldn't be at FFU," Raven concluded. "Belief without temptation has no merit," I quoted. "A promise to abstain from boys is nothing more than empty platitudes if there are no boys around." "Zane, we came here because no boys are allowed. Our pledge is a declaration of solidarity with our fellow students," Raven stated. "But the pledge is voluntary so you should respect their decision to do something else if the situation changes," I suggested. "A lot of girls here treat me nicely but aren't jumping my bones, girls like you." Raven didn't comment for several seconds. "I only wish more girls felt like I did," she said weakly. "Well, I'm glad you feel that way about me," I told her, as I pulled my legs up to a lotus position, adjusted my robe, and got ready to work, "because I find you very attractive and that would make things difficult." "Yes, that would make things difficult," Raven muttered sadly. It didn't really matter how Raven ended up beside me, her legs curled up under her and her head poised at my shoulder looking over our choices of works to read through. She didn't have Iona's insightful genius but she had a dedication to detail that was remarkable. She was apparently impressed with my ability to link Irrelevant Detail A with Curious Reference B. In two hours, Raven was excited over the progress we'd made. "Of course you are happy," I teased her; "you expected nothing from me so everything you get is a bonus." "I apologize," she said softly. "Don't worry about it," I chuckled, "you are hardly the first girl on this campus to think I'm an idiot." No sooner had I spoken those words than Paige hopped over the seat behind me and took the armrest of the chair opposite Raven. "You are a moron, not an idiot," Paige corrected me. "Now, it has been two hours and I've finished my homework. Let's go." "Hey!" snapped Raven. "Excuse me, but did we have plans?" I addressed Paige crossly. "You have been sitting over here for two hours with this bimbo. If she hasn't finished working with you by now, she's even duller than she looks," Paige informed us. "Bimbo!" responded Raven as she stood up to confront Paige. "Paige," I cautioned, "why are you doing this? This is way beyond your normal anti-personnel skills." "I don't like her, and I like her spending time with you even less," Paige declared. "At least I didn't have to spread my legs to make him spend time with me," Raven retorted. That seemed to upset Paige so I intervened. "That's not true," I told Raven. "I hang out with Paige because she is intriguing and smart, like you. Anything else is a private matter between her and me." "I don't like her," Raven replied. "You suck up oxygen that would be better used by mewling infants," Paige countered. "Enough!" I snapped. I turned, cupped Raven's jaw, and kissed her on the lips, leaving her shocked. I turned to Paige and with my countenance, I let her know she'd gone too far. I walked off, looking for somewhere else to be, but the floor was pretty occupied by freshmen now, in their little groups studying and relaxing. I even caught sight of Rio playing pool with Valerie and enjoying herself. Iona was with a group of students I recognized but Barbie Lynn and the teachers were gone. Only Dana remained, an isolated island of calm, watching her television and drinking her beers. I slouched down on the seat next to my former coach. "You are not getting a beer," she told me. "Do I look like I want a beer?" I sighed. "No, you look like you need a beer," she chuckled, "which is worse." "Man, that is a sad assessment of my situation," I groaned; "accurate, but sad." "You need to say 'No' occasionally, Zane," Dana observed. "Since I can no longer keep these girls safe from you, you need to keep yourself safe from them. If you don't set some boundaries, there is going to be trouble." I digested that for a minute. "You are laughing at me on the inside, aren't you?" I remarked. "Pretty much, yes," Dana winked. "This is some twisted plot of yours to make me take some responsibility, damn you," I continued. "Yep," she quipped. "You would think that having so many girlfriends, or potential girlfriends, would be a great thing," I stated. "My problem is that there are so many wonderful girls to meet and I want to get to know them, and it isn't like I get to know someone in one hour, or one day, or even one year, really." Dana laughed out loud so hard she started to cough. "Who would have thought you were a romantic," she snorted. "If you limited yourself to one-night stands, your life would be far easier." "I frankly don't think that is a possibility for me," I shrugged. "Even Paige?" Dana asked, "I know she annoys the crap out of you and she's a total stalker." "She is not," I defended Paige. "She's different but I like her intensity." Dana smirked and a set of arms wrapped around me from behind. Paige rested her head on my shoulder and kissed my ear. "I came back to bitch you out for taking Raven's side over mine," she said softly, "but now I think I'll simply forgive you and be done with it." "Damn it, Paige," I snapped nervously, "would you stop sneaking up on me?" "No," she responded after a moment's introspection. "I want you to be somewhat afraid of me." "Paige, you might want to consider what the hundred and some other girls are going to do to you when they learn you want exclusive rights to Zane," Dana grinned. "We don't have to be exclusive," Paige informed her, like I wasn't even there (this happens to me way too much). "He only needs to be available when I need him. We'll work out other arrangements for us by the end of the semester." "Paige, you accept me on my terms or we don't get together at all," I warned her. "Part of your appeal is that you do so many other things so well," I continued. "You don't need me." "Zane, I gave you, she reminded me with a mixture of anger and sadness. "Paige, you were my first, too," I enlightened her. "I've never taken a woman's virginity before." "It was special to me," she whispered. I turned my head and shoulders far enough around to kiss her. "It was special for me, too, but I know it meant more to you. What I did can't compare to what you went through," I related. "It is not meant to. I haven't forgotten my first time; that doesn't change the fact that I love someone else and I want to spend the rest of my life with her. It has nothing to do with you or any of the other girls. I feel she is the one for me and it doesn't make rational sense," I explained. "I respect that, Zane," Paige allowed. "You are an idiot and a moron; I'm going to need to train you to accept what is best for you, which is me. I became a woman through your exertions and I'm not willing to surrender that glorious feeling to anyone." Dana laughed uproariously while I groaned in despair. "Fine, I'll let you deal with Christina and company," I grumbled. I stood up and disentangled from Paige. She followed me around the sofa until she was cuddled up against me. "Do we have some time?" she inquired while rolling her hip along my pelvis and getting a response from my suicidal cock. "Dinner first, but I wouldn't be opposed to some bedroom time with you," I grinned to Paige. "I'm thinking a hot oil massage, then some cowgirl action." That definitely excited her. Food did end up taking precedence over sex because I was desperately hungry. The meal time was tense, with bandaged members on both sides of the aisle. The big news was that the Board of Directors was meeting tomorrow morning in an emergency session. No mention of the fates of Coach Gorman or Heaven was made. When I got back, I borrowed Gorman's phone and I gave Heaven a call. She exploded all over me when she realized it was me and not the Coach. "I was afraid something had happened, damn you," she snapped. "There is a little thing known as caller ID." "Um, Heaven, you didn't let me get a word in," I pointed out. "How are you doing?" "I'm going nuts," she groused. "I think it is worse, being so close and not being able to help." "Being here isn't all that great," I related. "We are all stuck in our rooms, pretty much. The Coach was fired so she's over here, drinking beer and watching TV." "That has to be weird," Heaven noted. "Are you okay?" "Actually, all my problems are solved," I told her. "Paige Zeller has decided she owns me." "Zeller? That little albino Science Club geek?" Heaven muttered. "When I get back, I'll fix her ass." "Gee, thanks," I chuckled, "but I think I can handle her. The important thing is that we are going to get you back, and as soon as we do, " The TV went dead. "What the, a few of the girls working at the computer stations and at their laptops exclaimed. Our answer was twofold. Ms. Marlowe and five security guards came up the stairs and stared out over the room. My 'room' was a lot to take in the first time around. The arrival of campus security explained the loss of outside access. When the guards entered the security code for the door, it had alerted the system the Science Club had put in place and stopped security from finding our illegal hook-ups with a cursory search. "Ms. Gorman," gawked Ms. Marlowe, "do you have beer up here?" Dana raised a half-drained beer up, examining it intently. "Yes, that would seem to be the case, Edith," Dana responded. "Do you want one? I have five left." "No! This kind of behavior is not allowed," Ms. Marlowe declared. "I'm not employed here anymore, or did you miss that outburst this morning?" Dana chuckled. "You can't kick me out of my room for a month, or so my contract states. I'm not letting any of the students have any, if that makes you happy." "Are you drunk?" Edith inquired. "Not yet, but I'd like to be," Dana sighed. "How about you get on with the security sweep you are here for so I can get back to it." Edith Marlowe shook her head in disgust, then dispatched her guards to look around. There was blatant hostility being generated their way by the present student body. On any other day, that anger would have been the end of it, but one girl started handing out pool cues and girls lined up to get them. "Put those down right now," Ms. Marlowe commanded. "Get stuffed," Vanessa Hutchins, a freshman, shot back. She'd been particularly impacted by Rhaine's actions, having been propelled twice down different stairwells. "Zane," Dana cautioned me. I stood up and walked over to Vanessa. I took the pool cue from her hands gently and placed it on the pool table. "Come on, ladies, the sooner we let them get done, the sooner we can get back to ignoring them," I said to the students. Slowly the sticks were put aside and the guards returned to their search. "Ms. Hutchins, you are coming with me," Ms. Marlowe stepped forward. I turned and looked down at her. "Don't press your luck," I told Marlowe evenly. "We aren't resisting this search but tempers are high and only going to get worse if you push things." "Edith, try to remember that you not only have to get out of this room, you have to get out of the building," Dana pointed out. "I underestimated these students so I'm now sitting here drinking beer and considering my job options." Ms. Marlowe looked down her nose at Dana, who didn't appear to give a crap about her opinion, then motioned the guards to resume looking around. Campus Security hadn't been gone five minutes before Rio came running up to me. "Hey! I heard that there was almost a fight here," she asked me. "Nothing much to it," I shrugged. "Vanessa over there decided that Ms. Marlowe should become familiar with the grain of a certain pool cue and I had to put a stop to it." Valerie and Iona came up in time to hear the explanation. "I guess it was too much to hope that the Chancellor would leave you alone," Iona moped. "People with her personality type don't let go easily," Valerie commented. "I've met more than my share in law enforcement. Their power over other people is how they define themselves." "Therefore, we need Zane to keep her preoccupied," Paige gloated. Mother Fucking God! "I'm going to have to get you a collar with a bell, damn it, Paige," I growled to my albino ghost. "Of course," she hugged me, "I'll wear a black velvet one with an electronic chime on it and you get to wear a shock collar so you can keep your limited intellect on the important things." "Important things?" Valerie grinned. "Yes; important things like obeying me," Paige grinned triumphantly. "Paige, could you please walk this way with me," Iona said sweetly. "We need to talk." "Not right now, Iona; I'm busy with Zane," Paige dismissed Iona. "Paige, come with me right now or I will inflict such painful force upon your person that even Rio will blanch at the damage delivered," Iona stated with a terrible resolve. Paige regarded Iona with disdain. I was about to break things up but Valerie held me back with a small shake of her head. "I'm not afraid of you, Iona Becket," Paige remarked. "Then you haven't studied the implications of our fight. You will win, and Zane won't have anything to do with you anymore. Rio and I are his first friends here and you understand how he weighs such things," Iona told her calmly. "Hurt me, and kiss him goodbye." Paige's face grew grim. "Now let's take a walk and talk this over, Science Clubber to Science Clubber." "I accept the validity of your socio-dynamic theory. Let's talk then." Paige nodded her acceptance of Iona's statement and with a tiny bit more respect for my diminutive friend, the two geeks walked off. Valerie found the exchange to be both confusing and amusing. "Zane, the girls and I were looking over my ride and talking about taking a few weeks off after the spring semester ends and riding out in my territory," Valerie informed me. "I figure I could teach everyone to ride; I could teach Iona basic mechanics; and Rio could learn to fight." "What do you need me to do?" I asked. "Honestly, you are learning to shoot guns and bows, plus you have martial arts training, so you should do fine. I also heard a rumor that you know something about outdoor survival, which is also handy," Valerie continued. "As long as we can keep you away from the other ladies, we should be okay." "That sounds great. Maybe we could put in some rock-climbing once we get there," I suggested. "Didn't, didn't your parents die in a rock-climbing accident?" Valerie asked. "Yes, so? It was something they loved to do and something they taught me to love," I responded. "I won't give up that part of them over one bad memory." "I can't tell if that's cold or touching," Valerie smirked. "I'll let you figure that one out," I grinned back. "Some things you tell the world, some things you tell your friends, and a few things you keep to yourself." "Is that why you don't pry?" Valerie noted. "Rio says you've never asked her about her history, which makes you pretty unique. 'What were you in for?' was my first question to her." "It is my business to know who you are, not who you were," I told her. "I have to live with you in the present, so that's my business." "My Mom is going to love you," Valerie grinned. "How about your Grandfather?" I inquired. "Touch me in a sexual manner and he'll break out of Maximum Security to kill you," Val winked. "I'm not afraid," I boasted. "Oh?" Valerie arched an eyebrow. "Yes. I have a passport and am not afraid to use it," I joked. "Wow," Dana observed, "so this is what Zane is like when he has blood flowing to his brain; he actually makes sense." "Why am I being nice to you, again?" I questioned Dana. "I haven't a fucking clue," Dana shrugged, "after all, I kicked your ass and beat you to unconsciousness." "You knocked Zane out?" Valerie asked. "If you ever have to teach Zane, you'll end up feeling the same way I did," Dana sneered. "It was an accident," Rio informed Val. "Zane threw his face at her fist and she was forced to defend herself." "What really happened, Zane?" Valerie inquired. "I haven't a clue. I heard 'Ready, set,' and I woke up staring at the ceiling thirty seconds later," I answered. "I punched him, but to be fair, he'd knocked me down with a kick in our previous encounter," Gorman admitted. "I was actually surprised he went down because Zane can take a beating." "That's the second nicest thing you've ever said about me," I commented. "What was the first?" Dana said. "You told Ms. Lane I wasn't a total waste of effort," I related. "Speaking of which, you did her, didn't you?" Dana asked. "I like keeping my relationships discreet, I started, then several girls around me groaned, ", if that is what they want, so no comment." "Let's just say that I've seen teeth marks on Zane's shoulder that have a slight gap on the left like a certain someone we both know," Rio snickered. Dana snorted. Before I could respond, I saw Iona coming my way and Paige angling for the door. I nodded to Iona and mouthed a 'thank you' to her, then angled to cut Paige off. "Where are you going?" I questioned her. "I get it; I'm not wanted, you have better things to do, and I am not going to get what I want so I'm leaving," Paige sounded hurt. "Did I say I didn't want you around?" I asked. "Iona said that you spending time with me was something the other girls wouldn't allow. Even Cordelia feels that way, apparently," Paige informed me. "I think you misunderstood," I clarified. "I want to spend time with you but I can't simply kick other girls aside because I do." "So now you want to spend time with me, but why should I spend time with you?" she countered. "I don't know," I replied. "Why did you come over and hassle Raven and I?" That brought her up short, not because she didn't know the answer but because she didn't want to admit it. "I was jealous," she said softly. "You don't need to be," I told her. "We are study buddies, nothing more." "You are a moro

Buckle up for a wild ride through the markets with Eric Leake, founder of Altus Private Capital, as Jeff Malec explores the investment world with a quantitative maverick who's about to reveal the hidden playbook of market mastery! From analyzing market waves to navigating volatility, Eric uncovers his unique approach combining long-term equity market trend analysis with short-term volatility management. Discover the secret sauce of strategies that don't just follow the crowd - they dance to their own quantitative beat. With insights sharper than a guitar riff and techniques more calculated than conventional wisdom, Eric shares how he aims to turn market chaos into calculated returns, smoothing out market bumps and turning volatility into opportunity. Blending market insight with analytical precision, Eric provides insights into managing risk and understanding the patterns of investor behavior. Learn how his multi-factor strategy aims to deliver returns while protecting against market downturns, all while maintaining exposure to market upside. This conversation is a great listen for investors seeking to understand sophisticated risk management techniques in today's dynamic market environment - SEND IT!00:00-00:51= Intro00:52-09:10= From Music Major to Market Maverick: Eric Leake's Unexpected Journey09:11-22:33= Decoding Market Dynamics: The Art of Trend Following and Volatility Management22:34-39:14= Risk Management Unveiled: Smoothing Market Volatility Through Quantitative Strategies39:15-49:27=ALTUS Strategies: Balancing Short-Term Volatility and Market Momentum49:28-01:03:40= Navigating Market Extremes: Hedging, Positioning, and Investor PsychologyFrom the Episode:ALTUS Private Capital: The Bear Market Road Map - ⁠Get the guide!Making Market Music with Roy Niederhoffer:https://www.rcmalternatives.com/2021/03/making-market-music-with-roy-niederhoffer/Follow along with Eric on LinkedIn and check out their website at altusprivate.com!Don't forget to subscribe to⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Derivative⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, follow us on Twitter at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@rcmAlts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and our host Jeff at⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AttainCap2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ , and⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠sign-up for our blog digest⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Disclaimer: This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal, business, or tax advice. All opinions expressed by podcast participants are solely their own opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of RCM Alternatives, their affiliates, or companies featured. Due to industry regulations, participants on this podcast are instructed not to make specific trade recommendations, nor reference past or potential profits. And listeners are reminded that managed futures, commodity trading, and other alternative investments are complex and carry a risk of substantial losses. As such, they are not suitable for all investors. For more information, visit⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.rcmalternatives.com/disclaimer⁠⁠⁠⁠

Après 20 ans passés à des postes de direction Product Marketing aux États-Unis, il accompagne depuis +3 ans les entreprises B2B tech dans leur repositionnement et structuration de la fonction PMM.Bertrand a managé des équipes de plus de 20 PMM, recruté des dizaines de profils, structuré des fonctions de zéro… Et même collaborer avec la reine du Positioning : April Dunford. Il partage sa conviction : le positionnement est le socle de toute stratégie marketing efficace. Et il nous livre son approche très terrain du Product Marketing, nourrie par des années à côtoyer sales, produit et direction.Vous découvrirez :

When it comes to product positioning, clarity isn't just a communication tool—it's a strategic advantage. In this episode, I sit down with Anthony Pierri, co-founder of FletchPMM, a product marketing consultancy that's helped over 400 B2B software startups discover and sharpen their positioning. We explore how founders can unlearn generic marketing advice, clarify their message, and activate their strategy through one often-overlooked asset: their homepage.Anthony brings practical frameworks, real-world stories, and a refreshing candor to a space that's often muddled with jargon. This is a must-listen for any founder, PMM, or GTM leader tired of being misunderstood—and ready to focus.FletchPMM is a product marketing consultancy that helps B2B tech startups nail their positioning and bring it to life through a purpose-built homepage. Alongside co-founder Rob Kaminski, he's helped more than 400 companies craft focused, champion-centered messaging that converts.Key TakeawaysClarity wins: Positioning isn't about vision—it's about specificity, segmentation, and telling your champion's story.Unlearn the fluff: Ditch the vague benefits and generic promises. Customers need to know what you do and how it helps them.Focus = traction: Trying to be everything to everyone dilutes your impact. Specialization creates memorability and repeatability.Your homepage is your positioning: It's the one asset every stakeholder sees—customers, investors, your team. Make it count.Position for the champion, not the budget holder: Focus your messaging on the person closest to the problem—not the executive who cuts the check.Additional InsightsPositioning is pattern recognition: Anthony shares how lessons from church leadership and freelancing helped him recognize early signs of positioning misalignment—even before he had the language for it.Inbound scale comes from consistency, not creativity: With over 500 companies served, Fletch's success has come from delivering one service, the same way, every time—not by chasing new ideas or tactics.Founders often confuse luck with repeatability: Anthony reveals how many early startup wins come from personal networks—and how this masks the real need for scalable positioning and segment focus.Mispositioning starts with the homepage: Anthony critiques vague, benefits-only messaging like “Make Yes Work”—demonstrating how the lack of a clear product reference point derails understanding and action.Repositioning is an organizational act: Referencing Klaviyo and Meta, Anthony shows how homepage messaging isn't just about marketing—it forces internal alignment by making strategic bets visible to every team member.Episode Highlights00:00 – Episode RecapAnthony Pierri shares how a seemingly minor contradiction in a church's mission statement became his first exposure to a positioning problem—planting the seed for a career built around clarity.01:30 – Guest Introduction: Anthony PierriBarry introduces Anthony, co-founder of FletchPMM, a consultancy that's helped 400+ B2B software startups craft focused, conversion-driving homepages.05:09 – The Real Cost of Doing EverythingWhy trying to serve every persona or use case is the quickest way to stall traction—and how narrowing your focus builds momentum.07:14 – Specialization is a Strategic AdvantageAnthony explains how one service, delivered one way, to one segment unlocked a scalable, inbound engine for Fletch.11:42 – Sales...

Take the next step in your veterinary dentistry journey — discover how you can join Dr. Beckman's elite training community! https://ivdi.org/inv Get more out of this episode by watching the presentation as well on YouTube: https://ivdi.org/thevetdentalshowYT ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM In this episode of The Vet Dental Show, Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM, and Annie Mills, LVT, VTS (Dentistry), answer common questions from veterinarians and technicians about dental radiography techniques, extraction protocols, and managing tooth resorption in dogs and cats. Learn practical tips to improve your diagnostic accuracy and surgical efficiency in veterinary dentistry. What You'll Learn: ✅ Master ventral/dorsal radiography positioning for easier troubleshooting. ✅ Discover when NOT to clean teeth before radiographs or extractions. ✅ Understand the nuances of imaging PM4 in large vs. small dogs. ✅ Simplify staging dental procedures in general practice.  ✅ Apply best practices for managing tooth resorption in cats.  ✅ Recognize when full-mouth extractions are necessary for stomatitis cases. Key Takeaways:  ✅ Ventral/dorsal positioning simplifies dental radiography, especially for beginners.  ✅ Avoid wasting time cleaning teeth that will be extracted.  ✅ Staging complex dental cases can reduce stress and improve outcomes in general practice.  ✅ Complete tooth extraction is crucial in stomatitis cases to prevent ongoing inflammation.  ✅ Advanced training is essential before attempting complex procedures like full-mouth extractions in cats. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Transform your dental practice today — request your invite to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program: https://ivdi.org/inv Explore Dr. Beckman's complete library of veterinary dentistry courses and CE resources! https://veterinarydentistry.net/ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Questions? Leave a comment below with your thoughts, experiences, or cases related to veterinary dentistry! ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Veterinary Dentistry, IVDI, Brett Beckman, Dog Dental Care, Cat Dental Care, VetTech Tips, Animal Health, Veterinary Education, Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program, Vet Dental Show, Dental Radiographs, Tooth Extraction, Tooth Resorption, Feline Stomatitis, Surgical Extraction

Tune in for a performance update and outlook for emerging market equities. We also explain the thinking behind CIO's recent upgrade of Emerging Market equities, along with Mainland China and the China tech sector. Plus, thoughts on key risk events and opportunities outside of China to be mindful of. Featured are Xingchen Yu, Emerging Markets Strategist Americas, & Laura Smith, Investment Specialist, UBS Chief Investment Office. Host: Daniel Cassidy

Digital marketing strategist Eleanor Mayrhofer joined me on Ditching Hourly to describe exactly how she productized her web design services. Links:Eleanor's website » https://www.eleanormayrhofer.com/ditchingEleanor's LinkedIn » https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleanormayrhofer/Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:14) - Eleanor's Background and Business Model (00:52) - Straight to Non-Hourly (02:01) - Starting a Solo Business During COVID (02:44) - Initial Market Approach and Challenges (03:48) - Developing a Productized Service (04:25) - Current Business Model: Website in a Week (05:31) - Client Interaction and Project Scope (09:40) - Copywriting and Strategy Sessions (16:31) - Handling Project Scope and Client Expectations (21:24) - Marketing and Client Acquisition (23:20) - Client Commissions and Referrals (23:40) - Subscription Maintenance Services (24:53) - Positioning and Target Audience (25:53) - Overcoming Launch Procrastination (27:11) - Client Collaboration and Revisions (28:55) - Technical Setup and DNS Challenges (31:25) - Post-Launch Support and Testimonials (33:13) - Pros and Cons of Productized Services (36:55) - Sales Process and Lead Time (38:55) - Long-Term Plans and Project Juggling (41:01) - Avoiding Boredom with Productized Services (42:20) - Conclusion and Contact Information ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

02:04 Crypto Journeys: Soju and Zhen's Backgrounds04:27 Understanding Meteora: Current State and Future Vision06:49 Lessons from Mercurial: Token Migration and Community Support09:30 The Trump Token Launch: Behind the Scenes12:23 Positioning for Future Celebrity Launches14:59 Governance and Vetting Processes in Token Launches17:46 Dynamic Bonding Curve: Innovations and User Experience20:39 Dynamic Liquidity Market Maker: Features and Advantages23:24 Challenges and Future Developments in DLMM26:02 The Role of MET Token and Community Alignment28:32 Revenue Utilization and Buyback Philosophy31:10 Metrics for Success: Focusing on Fees33:45 Future Vision: What Will Meteora Look Like in Six Months? X: @MeteoraAG./ @0xSoju / @realdezen If you like this episode, you're welcome to tip with Ethereum / Solana / Bitcoin:如果喜欢本作品，欢迎打赏ETH/SOL/BTC：ETH: 0x83Fe9765a57C9bA36700b983Af33FD3c9920Ef20SOL: AaCeeEX5xBH6QchuRaUj3CEHED8vv5bUizxUpMsr1KytBTC: 3ACPRhHVbh3cu8zqtqSPpzNnNULbZwaNqG Important Disclaimer: All opinions expressed by Mable Jiang, or other podcast guests, are solely their opinion. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Mable Jiang may hold positions in some of the projects discussed on this show. 重要声明：Mable Jiang或嘉宾在播客中的观点仅代表他们的个人看法。此播客仅用于提供信息，不作为投资参考。Mable Jiang有时可能会在此节目中讨论的某项目中持有头寸。

For CISOs and technology leaders, AI is reshaping business process management and daily operations. It can automate routine tasks and analyse data, but the human element remains critical for workforce oversight, customer interactions, and strategic decision-making.In this episode of Tech Transformed, Trisha Pillay talks with Anshuman Singh, CEO of HGS UK, about AI in the workplace. They discuss how AI can support employees, improve customer service, and require careful oversight. Singh also shares insights on preparing organisations for AI integration and trends leaders should watch in the coming years.Questions or comments? Email info@em360tech.com or follow us on YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter @EM360Tech.TakeawaysAI is reshaping workforce needs, not just replacing jobs.Routine tasks are increasingly being automated by AI.AI can free up capacity for more meaningful work.The narrative around productivity is changing with AI.AI will create new job opportunities, often better-paying.Human oversight is crucial in AI decision-making.AI can assist in customer service, enhancing empathy.Organisations should not wait for perfect AI solutions.Training and hands-on experience with AI are essential.A psychological safety net is necessary for AI experimentation.Chapters00:00 Introduction to AI and Human Element03:03 AI's Impact on Workforce Dynamics08:29 The Role of Human Oversight in AI10:46 AI Innovations in Customer Service16:34 Positioning for Growth in Business Process Management20:01 Preparing the Workforce for AI Integration25:35 Emerging Trends in AI and Workforce29:19 Final Thoughts on AI and Ethics

Watch The X22 Report On Video No videos found (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:17532056201798502,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-9437-3289"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");pt> EU Central Banker Christine Lagarde panics over Trump economic policies. Trump helping Argentina which will then help America. Trump make deal with Australia in regards to rare earth minerals. Gold is on track to take over the Federal Reserve note. Timing is everything. The [DS] used Lawfare after Trump was elected in 2016 until the assassination attempt. They are now passed Lawfare and now moving to physical stop Trump and bring the world into war. The [DS] is using the 1983 CIA playbook to push their Antifa agenda, playbook known. Trump is strategically positioning the National Guard around the country to outflank the [DS] operation.   Economy (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:18510697282300316,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-8599-9832"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs"); EU Central Banker Christine Lagarde Outlines the “Trillions at Stake” Within President Trump's Geopolitical Reset   the EU is counting on expanded militaristic spending to get them out of their dead-end path.  Again, in majority, the economics of the thing is why they want expanded war with Russia – regardless of the detrimental outcome.  Without war they have to give up their Build Back Better green energy program.  EU Central Bank President Christine Lagarde  , the “trillions at stake” CHRISTINE LAGARDE: I see signs that the attraction of the dollar is slightly eroded, and future will tell whether there is more erosion of that. But when you look at the rise of cryptos, number one, when you look at the price of gold. Gold is typically, in any situation, the ultimate destination for safe haven. Price of gold has increased by more than 50% since the beginning of the year. — MARGARET BRENNAN: — So people are worried. — CHRISTINE LAGARDE: — That's a clear sign that the trust in the reserve currency that the dollar has been, is and will continue to be, is eroding a bit. In addition to that, we've seen capital flows outside of the U.S. towards other destinations, including Europe. So, you know, for a currency to be really trusted you need a few things. You need geopolitical credibility. You need the rule of law and strong institutions. And you need, I would call it, a military force that is strong enough. I think on at least one and possibly two accounts, the U.S. is still in a very dominant position, but it needs to be very careful because those positions erode over the course of time. We've seen it with the Sterling Pound, you know, way back after, after the war. But it happens gently, gently, you don't notice it and then it happens suddenly. And we are seeing intriguing signs of it, which is why I think that having a strong institution with the Fed, for instance, is important. Having a credible environment within which to trade is important. So volatility, uncertainty, to the extent it is fueled by the administration, is not helpful to the dollar. Source: theconservativetreehouse.com https://twitter.com/dogeai_gov/status/1980278003067142441   President Trump last night what he would say to American farmers who feel the deal is benefiting Argentina more than them, with Trump responding: “Look, Argentina is fighting for its life, young lady. You don't know anything about it. They're fighting for their life. Nothings benefiting Argentina. They're fighting for their life. You understand what that means?

Get my new book: https://bronsonequity.com/fireyourselfDownload my new special report - How to Use Inflation to Your Advantage - www.bronsonequity.com/inflationWelcome to our latest episode!In this episode, Bronson and Nate sit down with Ashley Wilson, CEO of Bar Down Investments and author of The Only Woman in the Room. Ashley shares her insights on today's real estate market, why 2026 could be a turning point, and how she's helping lead the next generation of women in investing. They also talk about teachability, long-term thinking, and the importance of aligning with ethical partners.

Send us a textAuto-clip your long form into viral shorts- https://link.vidiq.com/podcast-to-shortsGet the vidIQ plugin for FREE: https://vidiq.ink/boostpluginWant a 1 on 1 coach? https://vidiq.ink/theboost1on1Join our Discord! https://www.vidiq.com/discordWatch the YouTube version: https://youtu.be/-PzSEl2E2UoWe put YouTube's new Collab feature through a real test and watched first-day impressions jump from 2,800 to 58,000 on a new channel. We dig into analytics, tradeoffs, and how smaller creators can partner smart without changing their format.• How the Collab feature expands distribution into partner subscriptions and browse• Why launch timing matters more than retroactive collabs• What to expect when CTR and AVD dip but total watch time soars• Practical steps for small-channel collaborations and shared analytics• When to separate education from entertainment to avoid audience confusion• Diagnosing big impression drops with traffic sources and seasonality• Using AI to lift scripts, audio, and ideation without losing your voice• Positioning in saturated niches and when identity should inform brandingSubscribe on the podcast channel for weekly Q&A and leave us a five star review on Apple if you're enjoying the show

#295 Messaging | Dave is joined by Emma Stratton, founder of Punchy, where she helps B2B tech companies sharpen their positioning and write messaging that actually connects. Emma's worked with hundreds of teams to cut through vague, abstract copy and turn it into language buyers instantly get.Dave and Emma cover:How to go from vague to punchy using specificity and buyer empathyWhy most B2B messaging blends into the “sea of sameness” (and how to stand out)How customer research and real conversations create message–market fitThey wrap with a candid chat on journaling, focus, and how managing your mental energy can make you a better marketer and human.Timestamps(00:00) - – Intro to Emma (04:13) - – What makes B2B messaging actually good (07:55) - – Common messaging mistakes (and why “clarity > clever”) (10:53) - – Positioning vs. messaging: what's the difference? (15:06) - – Why it's hard to name great B2B marketing examples (17:30) - – How to sharpen weak messaging and fix vague positioning statements (20:38) - – Simplifying complex products without dumbing it down (23:48) - – How to write for buyers (not just execs) (28:55) - – Using customer interviews and research to build strong messaging (33:33) - – Standing out in a crowded, buzzword-filled market (36:17) - – How storytelling fits into B2B messaging (39:23) - – Messaging advice for early-stage founders and startups (42:38) - – How often should you revisit and update messaging? (44:48) - – Productivity, managing your energy, and staying focused (48:03) - – Journaling, mindfulness, and being intentional with your time (51:58) - – Final takeaways Join 50,0000 people who get our Exit Five Newsletter here: https://www.exitfive.com/newsletterLearn more about Exit Five's private marketing community: https://www.exitfive.com/ ***Today's episode is brought to you by Knak.Email (in my humble opinion) is the still the greatest marketing channel of all-time.It's the only way you can truly “own” your audience.But when it comes to building the emails - if you've ever tried building an email in an enterprise marketing automation platform, you know how painful it can be. Templates are too rigid, editing code can break things and the whole process just takes forever. That's why we love Knak here at Exit Five. Knak a no-code email platform that makes it easy to create on-brand, high-performing emails - without the bottlenecks.Frustrated by clunky email builders? You need Knak.Tired of ‘hoping' the email you sent looks good across all devices? Just test in Knak first.Big team making it hard to collaborate and get approvals? Definitely Knak.And the best part? Everything takes a fraction of the time.See Knak in action at knak.com/exit-five. Or just let them know you heard about Knak on Exit Five.***Thanks to my friends at hatch.fm for producing this episode and handling all of the Exit Five podcast production.They give you unlimited podcast editing and strategy for your B2B podcast.Get unlimited podcast editing and on-demand strategy for one low monthly cost. Just upload your episode, and they take care of the rest.Visit hatch.fm to learn more

The digital accessibility expert, James Warnken, is back for this week's episode of the Brand Shorthand Podcast to continue the discussion on all things web accessibility. Join Mark and James to hear the reasons why businesses should care about digital accessibility, and the principles that can help guide you through making your digital content accessible.  Join Mark and James for 30-ish as they discuss all things marketing, advertising, and of course … positioning!

In this episode of Innovation Meets Leadership, Natalie Born sits down with Louisa Loran, former Google executive and author of Leadership Anatomy in Motion. With an impressive career spanning Diageo, Maersk, and Google, Louisa has redefined what it means to lead across industries—from building billion-dollar supply chains to transforming legacy business models.Louisa reveals how curiosity, courage, and emotional intelligence fuel lasting transformation. She shares stories of stepping into roles before she felt “ready,” challenging corporate norms, and helping leaders unlearn habits that limit potential. Whether you're navigating rapid change or seeking to inspire courage in your team, this episode will help you unlock your own leadership evolution.[00:00 – 04:00] Louisa's Journey Across IndustriesFrom Diageo to Maersk to Google—how curiosity guided her bold career transitions.Lessons from moving between consumer goods, logistics, and tech.Understanding brand legacy and the courage to step into unfamiliar worlds.[04:01 – 08:00] The Power of Curiosity and Self-BeliefWhy curiosity is a leader's greatest asset.Louisa's seventh-grade dream of joining LVMH—and how it came true.Taking chances on roles you're “not qualified” for and learning through action.[08:01 – 11:00] Courage in Leadership TransformationWriting Maersk's transformational strategy amid major restructuring.Why success isn't just about having the right answers but addressing hidden fears.How courage and curiosity unlock organizational change.[11:01 – 13:00] The Art of Asking Better QuestionsHow to ask questions that invite reflection instead of resistance.Building emotional intelligence and influence through curiosity.Positioning ideas for buy-in and collaboration at the executive level.[13:01 – 16:00] Lessons from Google: A New Way of ThinkingShifting from hierarchical strategy to platform-based innovation.Learning to hold back as a leader and empower teams through exploration.Merging traditional business discipline with digital-era agility.[16:01 – 21:00] The Four Pillars of Future LeadershipVisioning – Envisioning ambitious futures beyond current limits.Expanding – Leveraging collective intelligence to grow faster.Steering – Prioritizing and staffing for the future.Embodying – Becoming the leader your future organization needs.[21:01 – 23:00] Transforming from the Inside OutWhy every transformation must start with the leader themselves.How fear and comfort can silently limit organizational growth.Encouraging leaders to unlearn and relearn continuously.[23:01 – 24:00] Closing ReflectionsLouisa's call to unlock “lost potential” within organizations.How to continue the conversation and bring courage into your own leadership journey.Quotes:“Curiosity is the driver that unlocks both courage and innovation.” – Louisa Loran“It's not about having the right answers—it's about understanding what's holding people back from acting on them.” – Louisa Loran“Any business led by someone unwilling to start the transformation within themselves is wasting its greatest resource.” – Louisa LoranConnect with Louisa LoranWebsite: louisaloran.comLinkedIn: Louisa LoranBook: Leadership Anatomy in MotionLEAVE A REVIEW + help another leader grow through innovation by sharing this episode, or click here to catch up on past episodes.

You have about ten seconds to grab a prospect's attention on LinkedIn. If you're spending more time scrolling than positioning yourself as a thought leader, you're not using your profile to its full potential. Here's how to turn it into the perfect “first discovery call.”Profile Positioning· If you go back to episodes 1941 and 1088 with Brynne Tillman, you'll hear her explain why it's time to move past the resume mentality.· Your profile is prime real estate. Start with a compelling banner that clearly shows who you help and how. Use a professional, up-to-date photo, and try LinkedIn's name pronunciation feature to add a personal touch.Headline & About Section· Craft a headline that's punchy and credibility-building—skip the job title and highlight the value you deliver.· In your About section, speak directly to your ideal client's pain points. Use storytelling and short testimonials to build trust and connection.Target and Engage· Create micro-lists for targeted outreach—CFOs, CEOs, COOs—so you can personalize your messaging around real problems.· Before pitching a meeting, engage thoughtfully with your prospects' posts to build rapport and show genuine interest in their needs.Homework Challenge· Update your banner, headline, and profile photo. Rewrite your About section to focus on the problems you solve, and build a micro-list of prospects. · Also, don't forget about using my LinkedIn Sales Navigator trial to jump-start your outreach.“Your profile needs to be a lead-generating tool. It needs to attract prospects; they need to see it. And within five seconds, know what you have to offer.” - Donald Kelly.ResourcesIf you want to try LinkedIn Sales Navigator, start your 60-day trial here. My LinkedIn Prospecting Course will show you exactly how to start attracting more prospects right away. And don't forget to connect with me on LinkedIn!Sponsorship Offers1. This episode is brought to you in part by Hubspot.With HubSpot sales hubs, your data tools and teams join a single platform to close deals and turn prospects into pipelines. Try it for yourself at hubspot.com/sales.2. This episode is brought to you in part by LinkedIn.Are you tired of prospective clients not responding to your emails? Sign up for a free 60-day trial of LinkedIn Sales Navigator at linkedin.com/tse.3. This episode is brought to you in part by the TSE Sales Foundation.Improve your connection on LinkedIn and land three or five appointments with our LinkedIn prospecting course. Go to the salesevangelist.com/linkedin.CreditsAs one of our podcast listeners, we value your opinion and always want to improve the quality of our show. Complete our two-minute survey here:

Gravel World's, Bespoked Dresden, and new products have kept Escape's tech team busy over the past week. In this episode of Geek Warning, Dave and Ronan discuss a few of the bigger tech sightings and why they may prove to be irrelevant.There's talk of Campagnolo's latest products, plus Ronan further explains the role of saddle positioning tools.Members of Escape Collective also get access to the Ask a Wrench segment (this week with Boulder Groupetto). Of particular interest for many is a question related to the use of grease versus anti-seize versus threadlocker.Happy geeking!Time stamps:2:20 - Tech at UCI Gravel Worlds8:00 - Ultra-wide wheels from Dangerholm19:00 - Campagnolo goes Ultra27:30 - Good products, inspired by another podcast33:30 - Pet peeve meets PSA related to saddle positioning45:00 - Ask a Wrench with Boulder Groupetto (Members Only)47:00 - Tech that less tech-savvy riders should avoid58:30 - Grease vs Anti-Seize vs Threadlocker1:12:00 - A member-submitted tip1:15:00 - Omnium tyre choices

How often do innovators ask themselves if someone really needs their products? In this episode of the DMI podcast, host Will Francis speaks with Laurier Mandin, founder of Graphos Product and author of I Need That. With over 30 years helping innovators bring ideas to life, Laurier reveals how brands can turn customer wants into needs by focusing on empathy, validation, and true problem-solving. Laurier shares lessons from working with sustainable B2B products like recycled wind-turbine materials and explains why many innovators still skip the crucial step of validating whether anyone needs what they're building. He also discusses the psychology behind purchase decisions, our “dog brain” versus “tank brain”, and why clarity and simplicity in messaging always win.Laurier's Top 3 Tips for MarketersValidate properly: Test your product with real money or real commitment, not just surveys.Go beyond MVP to “MWP” (Minimum Wow Product): Build something that makes people say wow, not just it works.Focus on empathy and clarity: Cut the clutter, connect emotionally, and make the need unmistakable.The Ahead of the Game podcast is brought to you by the Digital Marketing Institute and is available on ⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube, Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠all other podcast platforms.And if you enjoyed this episode please leave a review so others can find us. If you have other feedback for or would like to be a guest on the show, email the podcast team!1:00 – Why “need” trumps “want” in marketing psychology4:40 – Pain points and empathy: How to connect like Steve Jobs9:00 – Building trust and shared purpose with customers11:00 – Inside Laurier's work: guiding innovators and building go-to-market roadmaps13:00 – Case study: Recycling wind-turbine blades into building materials16:00 – How to persuade risk-averse buyers to adopt innovation20:00 – Getting involved early: linking product development and marketing24:00 – Finding the original need behind every innovation27:00 – Why simplicity beats features (and what Apple teaches us)33:00 – Positioning for your tribe: how similar products can coexist34:00 – Lessons from I Need That: validation, emotion, and the “dog brain”38:00 – How to run validation that actually works44:00 – Laurier's “Innovative Product Go-to-Market Roadmap” explained48:00 – Using AI to accelerate, but not replace, expertise49:00 – Which marketing channels work best today55:00 – Balancing paid and organic: why SEO still matters57:30 – Laurier's top advice for innovators

SummaryIn this conversation, Joe Sullivan, co-founder of Gorilla 76, discusses his journey in industrial marketing, the importance of deep expertise in B2B marketing for manufacturers, and the strategic decision to charge for initial consultations. He emphasizes the need for high-quality content in marketing, the evolving landscape of SEO, and the significance of measuring marketing results effectively. In this conversation, the speakers delve into various aspects of marketing strategies, focusing on the importance of understanding marketing metrics, the distinction between inbound and outbound marketing, and the significance of crafting effective outreach emails. They discuss the balance between achieving fast results and building sustainable marketing success, the necessity of aligning marketing and sales efforts, and the difficult decision of knowing when to let go of a client. The insights shared provide valuable guidance for businesses looking to enhance their marketing effectiveness and overall success.TakeawaysGorilla 76 specializes in industrial marketing for B2B manufacturers.Deep expertise is crucial for effective marketing strategies.Charging for initial consultations helps establish trust and commitment.Content marketing should prioritize quality over quantity.SEO is a long-term strategy that requires patience and consistency.Narrowing focus on specific keywords yields better results.Understanding the sales cycle is essential for measuring marketing success.Engaging with subject matter experts enhances content quality.Proactive content distribution is key to reaching target audiences.Marketing metrics should include both leading and trailing indicators. Understanding your marketing funnel is crucial for success.Inbound marketing is a long-term strategy that builds authority.Outbound marketing can yield quick results but requires careful targeting.Crafting personalized outreach emails increases engagement.Positioning your business effectively is essential for attracting the right clients.Aligning marketing and sales teams can drive better results.Utilizing the right tools helps analyze customer behavior effectively.It's important to assess the profitability of client relationships.Transparent communication with clients can lead to better outcomes.Providing solutions when parting ways with clients shows professionalism.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Joe Sullivan and Gorilla 7602:59 The Evolution of Gorilla 76 and Its Niche06:09 Understanding B2B Marketing for Manufacturers09:02 The Importance of Deep Expertise in Marketing12:03 Charging for Initial Consultations: A Strategic Move14:49 Content Marketing: Quality Over Quantity18:04 SEO Strategies and Keyword Implementation21:06 Measuring Marketing Results for Manufacturers26:49 Understanding Marketing Metrics and Funnel Analysis30:35 Inbound vs Outbound Marketing Strategies34:35 Crafting Effective Cold Outreach Emails37:50 Balancing Fast Results with Sustainable Marketing Success44:14 Aligning Marketing and Sales for Success48:03 Knowing When to Fire a ClientCredits:Hosted by Ryan RoghaarProduced by Ryan RoghaarTheme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM  The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist:bit.ly/eggstunesThe Plugs:The Show: eggscast.com@eggshow on X and InstagramOn iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOnStitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcherAlso available on Google Play Music!Mike "DJ Ontic": Shows and info: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠djontic.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@djontic on twitterRyan Roghaar:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rogha.ar

Awareness is only the beginning—real leadership transformation happens when you take bold, intentional action. In this powerful podcast episode of Stepping Into The Arena, Karen Gombault lays out the exact steps you need to plug the four most common power leaks senior executives face.If you've recently stepped into a bigger role, and you're juggling visibility, credibility, and pressure, this is your tactical guide to reclaiming control, sharpening your presence, and protecting your energy.You don't need to do more—you need to do different.5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:Audit your altitude. Upgrade your calendar and your mindset. Shift from doing manager work to operating at strategic, high-level leadership altitude.Reframe your meetings. Stop the updates. Start making decisions. Ask the questions that move your team—and your influence—forward.Use the 3P Filter. Before saying yes, ask: Does this serve my Priorities, my People, or my Positioning?Don't let discomfort fester. Use a 48-hour rule to address tough conversations fast and with clarity. Avoiding conflict erodes your credibility.Stay in your lane. Focus only on what you can control. Redirect drama and noise into decisions and action that strengthen your presence.“Every time you reclaim your energy from things that are draining it, your presence, your authority and your credibility become much cleaner and sharper.” — Karen GombaultEvery time you close a power leak, you're not just being more efficient—you're strengthening your leadership identity. You're teaching people how to treat you. You're building trust, credibility, and authority.Choose one leak this week and stop it. You'll feel the shift instantly.RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:

Positioning can make or break your sales strategy — and it's most business owners are winging it or not doing it at all.  In this episode of Sales is Not a Dirty Word, I break down what positioning really means in sales, how to use it in real conversations, and why it's the biggest factor that determines whether your offer converts or gets ignored. Too many entrepreneurs sell deliverables instead of value.  They list what's included instead of showing what their offer actually does for the client.  That mistake leads to low conversions, price objections, and long sales cycles. In this episode, I'll share how to fix that fast with real world examples.  Listen in to discover how to tailor your message to different audiences, connect with what truly motivates them, and position your service as the obvious solution. Key points you'll discover in this episode: ✔ Why effective sales positioning shortens your sales cycle ✔ How to uncover what your audience truly values ✔ How to make your offer sound irresistible without pushing ✔ Why one offer can be positioned in multiple ways and still stay authentic ✔ How to help your sales team position with confidence and close more deals If you're tired of price objections, long sales cycles and getting ghosted this episode is for you!

Welcome to our review of PR pitches and mergers and acquisitions in the UK PR scene with Andrew Bloch. Here we discuss the biggest pitch wins, mergers and acquisitions that the PR sector has seen in October 2025Andrew is the lead consultant PR, social, content and influencer at the new business consultancy firm AAR and a partner at PCB Partners, where he advises on buying and selling marketing services agencies.PR Masterclass the Agency Growth Forum is now live. Virtual and face to face tickets are now available.Check out PRmasterclasses.com or the homepage of PRmoment for the full speaker lineup.Also, thanks so much to the PRmoment Podcast sponsors, the PRCA.Here is a rundown of what Andrew and PRmoment founder Ben Smith discussed:Pitches  National Express - Block Report - Block Report launched earlier this year Founded by Chris Grimwood of Iris and Social Chain and Jack Colchester of Wonderhood. Singapore Tourist Board - Splendid - UK integrated marketing agency. This win follows an open RFI. Splendid won Heathrow Express in April. Belfast City Council -  Cavendish Consulting, Lanyon Communications (part of Consello) and Open Strategic Communications PPHE Hotel Group (formerly Park Plaza Hotels Europe) - Launch PR. Retained consumer and corporate brief. 51 properties across eight countries. Rangemaster - Stakked - Iconic cooker brand with global recognition and deep British roots. Previously in-house. BFI London Film Festival - Vamp - 69th film festival. Vamp has worked with clients inc. Disney, paramount, Netflix, Prime, C4 Apple TV etc Aardman Animation - Wonderland. New Ewe Knit it campaign invites fans to create knitted items that can be turned into blankets for the homeless in London. Toy Retailers Association - WPR. To promote the dream toys list of the hottest toys for Christmas 2025.  Butlins - Popcorn. Positioning the holiday resort as the Home of Entertainment. Popcorn is strong in consumer and lifestyle - clients include Thorpe Park, Panasonic and London Designer Outlet. Hey Dude - Words+Pixels.  Launch of new campaign with Lewis Capaldi. Acai Berry Foods - Neon Brand Communications - Neon are specialists in health, wellness and beauty and lifestyle brands (hotpot yoga, coconut collab etc.) For Goodness Shakes - Frank. Launch protein and collagen drink, Glow. Lipton Teas and Infusions - Clarion. Retained consumer pr for sub brands PG Tips and Pukka. Youngs Seafoods - Brazen. Consumer pr, social media, influencer. Frozen fish brand - supplies approx. 40% of all the fish eaten in the UK every year, apparently! Omi/Shakers/Dints - Ballou. Trio of new clients for Ballou UK. Nationwide Building Society - Popeyes, Ogi and DEBRA - Folk  Border to Coast Pensions Partnership - Apella Advisors. Appella was founded in 2019 by ex APCO UK boss James Acheson Gray - works with Aviva, KPMG and Nationwide Building societyRoyal Mint - Third City. The Royal Mint is celebrating the 90th anniversary of the Monopoly Board game. Vinted – Smarts. Pan European pr, social and creator for online marketplace for selling, buying and exchanging new/second hand items. POD - Tin Man. EV electric charging provider, joins Tin Man's existing energy division - EDF, Electrify Britain, Energy GB. Changan - Woosah - Chinese auto firm launching into UK market with all electric Deepal SUV model. Paddy Power - Pitch - Addition to roster alongside Ready10.  M&A Team Lewis acquire Instinctif Partners. This deal will double the size of Team Lewis' UK ope

Register for the new free masterclass & private podcast here! www.igniteherbrand.com/authority  

Grab your notebook because today we're talking about nailing your messaging with the REP hook formula. I just spent some time in Indy with our mastermind and I've brought back some seriously powerful insights for you. In this episode, we're getting into what makes content really click, and how nailing your messaging and understanding psychological triggers can transform your posts, reel in new followers, and boost your sales (like one mastermind participant who gained 600 followers and $500 in sales in less than 24 hours!). If you're stuck on what to say in your hooks, feeling lost when it comes to filling in those blanks, or just frustrated that your Instagram isn't delivering results, you're going to hear proven strategies and prompts that are working right now.In this episode we'll be covering:A breakdown of my REP Hook Formula: relatable, expertise, and personal connection and how to apply each part to your own content.The importance of using relatable recognition and identity marketing when creating content and why words matter in your script, copy, and captions. Positioning yourself as a trusted source of insider knowledge, sharing your expertise as a job title or personal experiences.Highlighting the  curiosity gap with personal words (like I, my, we, us) making hooks more personal to foster authority and relatability.Actionable hook prompts and how to personalize them (even if you feel stuck!) using specific, situational language to increase relevance and stakes.Featured content in this episode:Shannonmckinstrie: Steal my proven hooksRecommended episodes:Episode 060: Nail Your Short Form Videos with This Simple FormulaEpisode 061: Use The Relatable Expert Hook to Create Your Next Helpful ReelEpisode 067: The Importance of Belonging on Social MediaEpisode 076: Create Content That Makes Them Want to Keeping Coming BackEpisode 077: Simple B-Roll and Strong Hooks for Low-Effort, High-Impact Instagram Content Send a message!If you use the send a message option above, be sure to include your email address if you would like a reply! (Please allow 3-5 business days for a response) Join me in the Reels Lab! Love this conversation? Make sure to follow and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Connect with me on Instagram!

Founder of The Upside, Erin Halper, joined me on Ditching Hourly to share her pro tips on creating and sustaining a premium online community. Erin's Links:Erin's community » https://betheupside.com/Erin's LinkedIn » https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinhalper/Chapters(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:19) - Erin Halper's Background and The Upside Community (03:19) - Challenges and Evolution of The Upside (07:24) - Starting and Running a Community (09:18) - Best Practices for Community Management (24:08) - Pricing Strategies for Independent Consultants (30:19) - Navigating Agency Subcontracting (30:52) - Building and Scaling Your Business (31:42) - Lifestyle and Impact in Consulting (33:00) - Celebrating Wins and Community Support (34:26) - Visibility and Positioning (36:03) - Pricing Strategies and Market Shifts (37:47) - Maintaining Boundaries in Community (40:30) - Application Process and Membership Cap (43:40) - Quarterly Open House Strategy (47:18) - Onboarding and Member Matching (55:26) - Concluding Thoughts and Contact Information ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

In this episode of Building Better Developers, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche sit down with Kevin Adelsberger, owner of Adelsberger Marketing, to explore how small businesses can build success through branding basics. The discussion ties into the season's theme — Building Better Foundations — and shows how a thoughtful marketing strategy helps transform side hustles into thriving companies. Listen now to the full episode on Building Better Developers, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Develpreneur.com — and stay tuned for Part 2 of the conversation with Kevin Adelsberger. Starting Small: Branding Basics from Burritos to Business Kevin's marketing journey started with burritos — literally. While working at a nonprofit, he began helping a local restaurant with its marketing in exchange for food. That early “say yes to everything” mindset helped him gain experience and connections. “When you're starting out, the answer is often yes to everything,” Kevin says. “But that can spread you too thin.” This early phase taught him one of the first branding basics: you must start broad to learn, but eventually narrow your focus to your strengths. Developers, freelancers, and small business owners can take this same approach — experiment early, then specialize as your reputation and client base grow. Knowing When to Rebrand As side hustles evolve into established businesses, many entrepreneurs ask: Should I rebrand? Kevin's advice is clear — it depends on your audience. “If your new focus serves a completely different audience, rebranding makes sense. But if there's overlap, changing your name or logo might cost you valuable recognition.” One of the key branding basics is understanding brand equity — the value built over time through consistent visuals, messaging, and reputation. A name people know is worth protecting. The Four Branding Basics Every Business Needs Kevin shares his firm's framework for defining a complete brand identity — four elements that every company should eventually refine: Visual Identity – your logo, colors, and design style. Positioning – how you serve the market and what makes you different. Identity – your mission, vision, and core values. Messaging – how you communicate and connect with your audience. He notes that new businesses don't need all of these perfected on day one. Start with visual identity and positioning, then evolve the rest as your business matures. “You don't have to get everything perfect on day one. Start simple, then refine as you grow.” Avoiding Common Marketing Mistakes When asked about bad marketing, Kevin emphasizes that missteps often come from ignoring your audience. “If you're doing something just to brag and not to provide value,” he warns, “you're going to have a bad time.” A big part of branding basics is keeping your customers at the center. Test your messages, get outside feedback, and consider how different people might interpret your marketing. Kevin also highlights the danger of having too few perspectives — especially when creating ads or visuals. Diversity in feedback helps prevent tone-deaf campaigns and strengthens connections. Investing in the Right Visual Identity The conversation wraps with a discussion on logos — a key topic in branding basics. While giant brands like Nike or Amazon have iconic designs, Kevin explains that small businesses don't need to overthink it. “A good logo used well adds professionalism,” he says. “A bad one gets you confused with everyone else.” He recommends investing in a professional brand kit that includes proper logo formats, colors, and fonts. Consistency builds recognition — and recognition builds trust. Branding Basics for Long-Term Success The first part of the interview with Kevin Adelsberger reminds us that branding isn't about fancy design or big budgets. It's about clarity, consistency, and connection. Whether you're launching your first side hustle or re-shaping a growing business, mastering branding basics helps you build a foundation that lasts. A Little Background Kevin Adelsberger is the founder of Adelsberger Marketing, where they create work that grows their clients' businesses, in a culture that values their team and the Jackson, Tennessee, community. After founding in 2014, Kevin went on to be a co-founder of Our Jackson Home and host its podcast from 2015 to 2019.  In 2016, Kevin was recognized as an emerging leader by Leadership Jackson. Then, in 2017, Adelsberger Marketing was named the Emerging Business of the Year by the Jackson Chamber. In 2019, Adelsberger Marketing sold partial ownership to Alexander, Thompson, and Arnold, CPAs. In 2020, Union University recognized Kevin with the Distinguished Achievement in Arts and Media award.  Kevin currently serves on advisory committees for Leadership Tennessee and Jackson State Community College and is a board member for theCO in Jackson, Tennessee.  He also hosts a podcast about business in West Tennessee called 40×45.  Kevin lives in Jackson with his wife and business partner, Renae, and their two children. They are active foster parents and are involved members of First Baptist Church, Jackson. They are also some of the few to cheer on the Minnesota Vikings from below the Mason-Dixon line. #Skol Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Online Communities and Marketing Protecting Your Brand and Avoiding Legal Trouble How to Succeed with Digital Marketing for Small Businesses Getting the word out, promoting your blog Building Better Foundations Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

While the stock cooled in the past couple weeks, Oracle (ORCL) has been on an undeniable tear since the start of 2025. Steven Dickens believes it has grown to become an essential part of the A.I. trade, calling it the "fourth hyperscaler." He explains why Oracle is an emerging giant that he says will stand alongside Microsoft (MSFT), Amazon (AMZN), and Alphabet (GOOGL). Tom White helps investors navigate the options front for Oracle.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Subscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – / schwabnetwork Follow us on Facebook – / schwabnetwork Follow us on LinkedIn - / schwab-network About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Sometimes the pressure isn't punishment — it's preparation.

This is not the time for you to move without God. This is not the time for you to get so desperate that you neglect discernment. This is not the time for you to abandon the Promises of God for temporary pleasure. This is the time to be well positioned and unmovable, no matter what may be breaking out in your life.The story of Jacob & Esau is complex. It's a story of deception, strategy, discernment, timing, and positioning. It's a story about how when we don't know the value of what we have, we'll squander it for much less than its worth. And when one person squanders, there is always someone waiting in the wings to get it.In this season, will you squander or will you strategize? Will you trust that God will do just what He said or will you leap at the first opportunity in desperation?Reference Scriptures:Genesis 25-28

James Warnken, a digital accessibility expert, joins Mark on this week's episode of the Brand Shorthand podcast to dive into the world of accessibility. Tune in to hear about James's journey to becoming an expert in the field, the company he founded, and how he's working to make the user experience both usable and accessible. This episode covers the full scope of digital accessibility and why it matters.  Join Mark and James for 30-ish as they discuss all things marketing, advertising, and of course … positioning! 

What if one random podcast episode on a Tuesday completely changed your career trajectory? Agne Maria Moa is a content strategist at Notus, one of Europe's leading personal branding agencies, where she helps founders build their LinkedIn presence. Her journey started when she accidentally listened to a podcast by Rory Vaden about how personal brands impact sales. The next day, she posted her first piece of content. While still a university student in Lithuania, Agne worked unpaid for six months at an early-stage agency while her peers worked as baristas. Agne takes a different approach that goes beyond chasing virality. She's learned that breakthrough comes from pushing through when you have zero engagement and nobody's responding. She starts with deep interviews to understand clients' backgrounds and goals before creating anything. Rather than copying what works for others, she helps founders figure out what makes them unique and builds strategies around their personal experiences. This conversation gets into building a personal brand from scratch. Agne shares how she dealt with impostor syndrome as a student with no experience, why she did things differently when everyone questioned her, and how focusing on value attracted opportunities.  Key Takeaways: Do Something Different to Build Success. Building an extraordinary life means doing what others aren't doing, even when it feels uncomfortable. Push Through the Uncomfortable Period. Breakthrough happens after you gain momentum, but you have to keep posting when nobody's engaging. Strategy Before Content. Understand your goals, target audience, and what makes you unique before creating posts or chasing engagement. Personal Stories Beat Tactical Advice. Content that ties personal experience to insights performs significantly better than generic how-to posts. Don't Chase Virality at the Expense of Positioning. High engagement doesn't matter if it positions you wrong or attracts people who won't become clients. Test Different Content Pillars. Mix tactical advice, personal stories, industry insights, and aspirational content to find what resonates. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR   Connect with Agne: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agnemokrikaite/ Calendly: https://calendly.com/agne-mokrikaite/30min   Closing thought: "In order to be successful in life, you need to do something completely different to what other people are doing." Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2026! Podbrand Media - Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective content creation and lead generation!  

For investors, the lithium-boron combination at Ioneer's (ASX: INR | NASDAQ: IONR) Rhyolite Ridge in Nevada means scale, flexibility, and lasting value. From production plans to boron's vital applications, Managing Director Bernard Rowe highlights the key factors and offtake agreements fueling the company towards production.Discover more about their development timeline and progress in the full interview.Visit their website to learn more: https://www.ioneer.com/Watch the full YouTube interview here: https://youtu.be/r8T-BLJsplQAnd follow us to stay updated: https://www.youtube.com/@GlobalOneMedia

We continue the journey with the talks of Spiritual Warfare. This time our foot steps need to have positions because we are in the Frontlines. Many times what we think are the right steps and directions to chase turn out to be not God but what we think they should be. Our Sword and Shield steps matter. We need to be careful, the false teachings, movements, and ideologies become our step over Scripture.Bible Verses: 1 John 4:1-3; Colossians 2:6-11; Acts 13:4-12; Acts 19:13-16; Philippians 1:27-30----------------------------------------------------------------Top 20 list at Feedspot: ⁠⁠https://podcast.feedspot.com/christian_men_podcasts/⁠⁠E: warriorwithin.christianmanhood@gmail.com|TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pastorwarriorwithinMerch Store: https://wwcm-podcast.printify.me/productsPayPal DONATIONS: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=KC3DTP8HM7DAEYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WarriorWithinMinistriesStudios-----------------------------------------------------Affiliated with Talitha Coffee: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://talitha.com/pastordido⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-----------------------------------------------------Track: Jim Yosef - Samurai [NCS Release] Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds.Watch:Free Download / Stream:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://NCS.io/Samurai⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠