Podcasts about Rakuten

Lesson plans by day. Red flags by night. Let's talk teacher dating.   All new dates for our brand new tour "Is it Friday Yet" are now available! But remember, we are still in 2025...Catch the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour coming to a city near you this December! Tickets going fast: https://bit.ly/TODBTCT  PLUS book your hosts for a speaking event at your school: https://teacherspeakers.com/    Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com    Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.beacons.ai/teachersoffdutypod   Send us a voice message: https://bit.ly/3UPAT5a    Listen to the podcast anywhere you stream your favorite shows:  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3hHNybdOJb7BOwe0eNE7z6?si=840ced6459274f98  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/teachers-off-duty/id1602160612  _________________________________   Teachers get your perks!! This episode is brought to you by:    Rakuten | Go to Rakuten.com today register for your FREE membership and get your siging bonus.   Function Health | Go to www.functionhealth.com/TOD or use code TOD100 to get $100 membership credit   Clean My Mac X | Go to cleanmymac.com to get 20% your first order with CODE: DUTY20 and try for FREE your first 7 DAYS!   _________________________________ Love, laughter, and a little classroom chaos — this week's episode of Teachers Off Duty is all about dating as a teacher and the hilarious, awkward, and sometimes cringe stories that come with it. From secret school romances to wild parent interactions, hyperbole mishaps, and teacher voice debates, the crew spills it all. Bri, Albraden, and Anna get real about what it's like to date inside and outside the teacher world — the coworkers who gossip, the students who always find out, and why online dating feels like grading group projects. They even unpack fake dating profiles, teacher crushes, and the dreaded "teacher voice" moment that shows up off the clock. If you've ever tried to balance lesson plans and love life, this one's for you. Grab your coffee, your grading pile, and tune in for the teacher talk that gets a little too real and funny. Listen now & don't forget to subscribe!    Follow your hosts:  Briana Richardson @HonestTeacherVibes  Anna Kowal @ReadAwayWithMissK  Albraden Hills @atxhills Follow us on all platforms @TeachersOffDutyPodcast _________________________________ Teachers Off Duty - A Bored Teachers©️ Podcast

In today's Frequent Miler on the Air podcast, we'll look at United's cardholder discount, Hilton's Diamond Reserve status, and we'll rank the perks of hotel elite benefits from Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and IHG.Giant Mailbag(01:13) - "I just spent the day in Nice and Monte Carlo and I have you to blame..."Bonvoyed(03:30) - United increases prices for close-in award bookingsRead more about United's increased prices for close-in award bookings here.Awards, Points, and More(06:08) - Bilt/Rakuten: Read more about earning Bilt points with Rakuten here.(08:36) - Add your Passport to your Apple Wallet(11:11) - Hilton Diamond ReserveRead more about Hilton Diamond Reserve status here.(19:57) - Read more about Greg's opinion about how Hilton's Diamond Reserve status disappoints here.Main Event: Elite Benefit Battle: Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and IHG(23:52) - Free breakfast, lounge access, suite upgrade certificates, guaranteed late check-out: which program has the best benefits?(24:20) - Primary shortcuts(30:36) - Comparing Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, and Marriott for free breakfast(40:21) - Comparing Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, and Marriott upgrade certificates(50:43) - Comparing Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, and Marriott lounge access(58:05) - Comparing Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, and Marriott, 4 PM Late check-out guaranteedQuestion of the Week(1:03:54) - Are there banks that let you refer to a lesser card if you have the more premium card?Learn more about Amex multi-referrals here.Subscribe and FollowVisit https://frequentmiler.com/subscribe/ to get updated on in-depth points and miles content like this, and don't forget to like and follow us on social media.Music Credit – “Ocean Deep” by Annie Yoder

There will be a tribute at Ridge's game tonight (Nov 21st) at 7:00 at Cam Neely Arena in Maple Ridge, and a tribute game in Mission on Saturday (Nov 22nd) at 6:45 at the Mission Leisure Centre for everyone who would like to pay their respects to Martin Hak, his loved ones, friends, and more. Owen goes solo as Joe's busy preparing for a huge showcase weekend against No.2 seed Ohio University and the highly ranked Univ. of Jamestown. The KIJHL had a very high-stakes board of governors meeting with the WHL present, deciding the future of the league. The Summerland Steam seem set to make a KIJHL return in 2026/2027, the BCHC Prospects game is CANCELLED, a few HUGE KIJHL trades, and more! Hosted by: Owen Elson and Joe Kuchaslo   Presented by: The Hockey Podcast Network   Sponsored by Draft Kings - Use promo code THPN at sign-up for exclusive offers. https://tinyurl.com/DRAFTKINGSPROMOTHPN   Sponsored by Aperio Athletics @aperio_athletics -Use promo code jungle15 for 15% off your first order! https://aperioathletics.com   Sponsored by Rakuten - Join for free today and get a new member bonus after minimum qualifying purchases, just go to Rakuten.ca   #pjhl #kijhl #vijhl #bchl #nhl #hockey #hockeypodcast #jungle #junglehockey #junglehockeypod #aperioathletics #draftkings #sponsored #ad Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Watch Us On YouTube! Thanks to Thrifty Traveler for sponsoring this episode! Visit ThriftyTraveler.com/Premium and use code GO20 to save $20 on annual memberships. On this week's Miles to Go podcast, powered by our friends at Thrifty Traveler, Ed is just back from a whirlwind 18-hour stop in Marrakesh and Richard is finally back in the co-host chair. Ed breaks down what it's really like to stay in a riad inside the Medina, how chaotic (or not) the souks feel, and whether Morocco deserves a spot on your must-visit list. Then the guys pivot into a big batch of Bilt news: the now-official Rakuten partnership and what it could mean to earn points on your mortgage starting next year. Along the way, they get into ugly Vegas convention fares, surviving the world's shortest red-eyes, and a few killer Thrifty Traveler Premium deals.   Get hydrated like Ed in Vegas with Nuun Use my Bilt Rewards link to sign-up and support the show! If you enjoy the podcast, I hope you'll take a moment to leave us a rating. That helps us grow our audience! If you're looking for a way to support the show, we'd love to have you join us in our Travel Slack Community.  Join me and other travel experts for informative conversations about the travel world, the best ways to use your miles and points, Zoom happy hours and exciting giveaways. Monthly access Annual access Personal consultation plus annual access We have witty, funny, sarcastic discussions about travel, for members only. My fellow travel experts are available to answer your questions and we host video chats multiple times per month. Follow Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milestogopodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@milestogopodcast Ed Pizza: https://www.instagram.com/pizzainmotion/ Richard Kerr: https://www.instagram.com/kerrpoints/    

Coaches are hired to be fired and this week it was Al Letang's turn to be fired. But what next for the Sarnia Sting? Farwell and Dan also have updates on previous stories, and a look at which market -- Guelph or Kitchener -- has the best shot at being named host of the 2027 Memorial Cup. Along with your weekly Wraparound and its look at every OHL team, there's also the big story the league wishes we weren't talking about. But the entire hockey world is talking about "The Slash," so Farwell and Dan weigh in on the length of the looming suspension. The OHL Podcast is presented by Draft Kings Sportsbook and is produced in partnership with Rakuten. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why "top-down" selling backfires in Japan's big companies — and what to do instead.  Is meeting the President in Japan a guaranteed win? No — unless the President is also the owner (the classic wan-man shachō), your "coup" meeting rarely converts directly. In listed enterprises and large corporates, executive authority is diffused by consensus-driven processes. Even after a warm conversation and a visible "yes," the purchase decision typically moves into a bottom-up vetting cycle that your initial sponsor doesn't personally shepherd. In contrast, smaller firms or founder-led groups may decide quickly, much like private U.S. SMEs or European Mittelstand. The trap is assuming a Western "economic buyer" model maps 1:1 to Japan's governance norms post-Abenomics (2013–2020) and as of 2025. Treat the Presidential meeting as a door-opener, not a done deal.  Do now: Reframe the "Prez" as an access node; design your plan for everything that happens after the elevator ride down. What actually happens after the big meeting? The President typically delegates "look into this" to a direct report, and your proposal enters an internal review pipeline. A junior staffer performs due diligence, then a section head reviews and either quietly stops the process or passes it up. If momentum builds, the division head circulates a ringi-sho (稟議書) with attached materials for cross-functional stamps (hanko). Each division repeats its own research — Finance, HR, Operations — before any re-contact with you. Compared with U.S. enterprise sales where a single VP can overrule, Japan's system prioritises organisational risk-sharing and face-saving. Expect additional nemawashi (root-binding) conversations you won't see. Every change to scope, pricing, or timing restarts the paper trail.  Do now: Ask early who will run due diligence, which divisions must stamp, and what the ringi packet must include. Why do direct reports sometimes ignore an explicit instruction? Because "check this out" isn't "make this happen" — the President's role usually ends at referral, not enforcement. In large firms (think Toyota-scale keiretsu or Rakuten-class digital groups), middle management owns process integrity. A public "order" in front of you may still be interpreted as permission to evaluate, not a mandate to buy. In the U.S., sellers might push back on "we'll think about it"; in Japan, they really do need to think — collectively. That's not stonewalling; it's governance. The deal can die silently at any stage if the section head sees mis-fit, poor timing (e.g., fiscal year planning in March), or brand risk. Your best lever is equipping mid-levels with a de-risked, spec-tight story that they can defend internally.  Do now: Translate the top-level promise into mid-level proof: ROI math, references in Japan, security/PII notes, and implementation flow. How long does the ringi cycle take, and what slows it down? Longer than Western sellers expect — and it resets with every material change. The ringi-sho builds consensus by circulating for stamps across affected divisions. Each unit repeats checks (vendor risk, budget fit, labour impact under Japan's 2023 work-style reforms, data residency for APAC, etc.). If you tweak scope or price, a fresh ringi often triggers. For comparison, an American SaaS deal might hit Legal once; in Japan, Legal, Information Systems, and HR may all run independent passes. Multi-site rollouts (retail, manufacturing) compound complexity versus single-site pilots. Sellers who rush or "pressure close" risk face loss among reviewers — a reputational cost that kills not just this deal but your next.  Do now: Time-box your asks, pre-bundle likely objections, and avoid last-minute scope surprises that force a re-circulation. How should you re-engineer your enterprise sales motion for Japan? Build a two-track play: executive alignment for vision + operator enablement for approvals. Track A (C-suite): anchor on strategy, external credibility (Japan references, security attestations), and clear business impact by quarter. Track B (middle-down): deliver a ringi-ready pack — problem framing, options matrix, risk mitigations, rollout plan, KPI table (adoption, uptime targets, ROI), and case miniatures from sectors like automotive, retail, and banking. Compared with Europe (works councils) or the U.S. (deal desk), Japan's reviewer set is broader; so your artefacts must be modular and stamp-friendly. Pro tip: craft a Japanese one-pager that a 25-year-old staffer can champion without fear.  Do now: Produce a bilingual ringi kit: exec summary, cost sheet, security appendix, phased pilot plan, and internal FAQ. What if the buyer is a founder-led or SME "one-man President"? Move fast — wan-man shachō environments can green-light on the spot, but still respect downstream implementers. Owner-operators (common in construction, logistics, specialised manufacturers) align closer to U.S. founder-CEO norms: if they decide, it happens. However, success still hinges on managers who must live with the tool or training. Win speed without burning adoption by pre-agreeing a post-signature cadence: kickoff, hands-on enablement, check-ins. Contrast: in multinationals and listed firms, assume consensus first, speed second. Use segmented pipelines and forecasting models for each archetype to avoid "phantom commits" based on executive enthusiasm alone.  Do now: Qualify leadership style early; if it's founder-led, offer rapid pilot + success plan; if it's listed, budget for consensus cycles. Quick internal checklist for a ringi-ready packet Executive one-pager (JP/EN) with outcome metrics and timeline Options matrix (do nothing vs. competitor vs. your solution) Security & compliance appendix (data flows, access, audit) Costing & ROI sheet (12–36 months, with sensitivity) Implementation playbook (roles, training, support SLAs) Reference mini-cases from Japan/APAC peers Do now: Attach this checklist to every enterprise proposal in Japan.  Conclusion: Stop "selling the Prez"; start enabling the process In Japan's large corporates, the President opens a door; the organisation makes the decision. Treat the executive meeting as your starting pistol, not the finish line. Win by equipping mid-levels to say "yes" safely, designing for ringicadence, and pacing your asks. In founder-led firms, move decisively — with respect for the managers who must land the change. That's how you convert enthusiasm into signed, implemented value in Japan, as of 2025.  FAQs Is aggressive closing effective in Japan? No. Pushy tactics create face risk for reviewers and can stall the ringi process; equip, don't pressure.  Do all Japanese companies work this way? No. Founder-led SMEs can decide top-down; listed and multinational firms lean consensus-first.  What documents speed approval? A bilingual, ringi-ready packet: exec summary, ROI, security, rollout, and references.  Next steps for leaders/executives Map the approval path (divisions, stamps, timelines). Build a standard ringi pack and local references. Train your team on Japan-specific cadence and language. Segment forecasts by "founder-led" vs. "listed corporate."  Author credentials Dr. Greg Story, Ph.D. in Japanese Decision-Making, is President of Dale Carnegie Tokyo Training and Adjunct Professor at Griffith University. He is a two-time winner of the Dale Carnegie "One Carnegie Award" (2018, 2021) and recipient of the Griffith University Business School Outstanding Alumnus Award (2012). As a Dale Carnegie Master Trainer, Greg is certified to deliver globally across all leadership, communication, sales, and presentation programs, including Leadership Training for Results. He has written several books, including three best-sellers — Japan Business Mastery, Japan Sales Mastery, and Japan Presentations Mastery — along with Japan Leadership Mastery and How to Stop Wasting Money on Training. His works have been translated into Japanese, including Za Eigyō (ザ営業), Purezen no Tatsujin (プレゼンの達人), Torēningu de Okane o Muda ni Suru no wa Yamemashō (トレーニングでお金を無駄にするのはやめましょう), and Gendaiban "Hito o Ugokasu" Rīdā (現代版「人を動かす」リーダー). Greg also publishes daily business insights on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter, and hosts six weekly podcasts. On YouTube, he produces The Cutting Edge Japan Business Show, Japan Business Mastery, and Japan's Top Business Interviews, which are widely followed by executives seeking success strategies in Japan.

One of our biggest episodes yet! Mathieu Caron is currently the starting goalie for Anglet in the French Pro League (Ligue Magnus). We discuss his hockey journey from his junior career as a Chilliwack Chief, his commitment to Brown, his transfer to Boston University, and his move to France. From recovering from a torn ACL, experiencing the madness of the NCAA Transfer portal, training with Brad Marchand, and tons more, Mathieu's interview is one for the ages. Check it out now on all streaming platforms, as well as the video on YouTube! Hosted by: Owen Elson and Joe Kuchaslo   Presented by: The Hockey Podcast Network   Sponsored by Draft Kings - Use promo code THPN at sign-up for exclusive offers. https://tinyurl.com/DRAFTKINGSPROMOTHPN   Sponsored by Aperio Athletics @aperio_athletics -Use promo code jungle15 for 15% off your first order! https://aperioathletics.com   Sponsored by Rakuten - Join for free today and get a new member bonus after minimum qualifying purchases, just go to Rakuten.ca   #pjhl #kijhl #vijhl #bchl #nhl #hockey #hockeypodcast #jungle #junglehockey #junglehockeypod #aperioathletics #draftkings #sponsored #ad Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Spencer Reese and Carissa Rawson, Director of Travel and Marketing at Rove and Air Force veteran, for an in-depth discussion about maximizing credit card rewards and travel benefits as a military service member. Carissa shares her journey from enlisted Arabic translator to becoming a leading voice in military credit card content, having written for The Points Guy, NerdWallet, USA Today, and Forbes. Building Credit from Scratch Starting with secured credit cards (Capital One recommended) Using personal loans from Navy Federal or USAA to establish credit history Career starter loans for new officers Building from no credit to premium cards Strategic Card Acquisition Best starter cards: Chase Sapphire Preferred, Citi Strata Premier, Amex Green Understanding bank application rules and restrictions The famous 5/24 rule with Chase Timing your applications strategically Military-Specific Benefits SCRA (Servicemembers Civil Relief Act) vs MLA (Military Lending Act) protections Annual fee waivers on premium cards Advantage for reservists and guard members opening cards before active orders Two-player mode: How dependents can also benefit from MLA protections Premium Cards Worth Getting American Express Platinum Card ($895 annual fee waived) Chase Sapphire Reserve Capital One Venture X (SCRA benefits) Hilton Honors Amex Aspire Multiple Amex Platinum cards strategy Tools and Resources Mentioned Award Wallet - Tracks points balances, expiration dates, and travel itineraries Seats.aero - Award flight search engine Max My Point - Hotel search tool for maximizing FHR credits PointMe (roame.travel) - Award alert tool for flexible travel Use Your Credits - Tracking Amex statement credits Card Pointers - Auto-adds Amex offers and tracks credits FSAFeds.gov - Application rules by bank Rove Miles - Earning transferable points through shopping portal and hotel bookings Rove Miles Platform Highlights 13,000+ shopping portal stores (vs Rakuten's 3,900) New "Loyalty Eligible" feature - book hotels while maintaining elite status benefits Earn Rove miles that transfer to 12+ airline partners Commission-based earning rates (up to 75x miles per dollar on some bookings) Immediate points posting on non-refundable bookings Guest Bio: Carissa Rawson served 7 years in the US Air Force (2009-2016) as a cryptologic language analyst (Arabic translator), including a deployment to Jordan supporting counter-ISIS operations. She's written extensively about military credit card benefits for major publications and now helps travelers earn rewards at Rove Miles. Website: rovemiles.com Contact: Reach out to Military Money Manual at podcast@militarymoneymanual.com or on Instagram @militarymoneymanual _________________________________________________________________________________ Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor Over 20,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card. https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/ https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/ Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

1:1 Points Travel Strategy Session - Book here!What if your weekly groceries, Friday night dinners, and holiday shopping could fuel your next big family trip? We break down a four-bucket system that took us past two million points this year without gimmicks: strategic sign-up bonuses, smart category spending, thoughtful referrals, and powerful stacking tools that turn ordinary purchases into extraordinary travel.We walk through the exact card moves we made, including timing the AA business “double dip,” choosing public offers over weaker referral paths when the math wins, and sequencing business cards to protect 5/24. Then we shift into everyday multipliers that quietly stack value: Amex Gold for 4x at dining and groceries, Strata Elite for 6x on weekend dining windows, and Freedom Flex quarterly caps. Gift cards become a multiplier key, from the DoorDash gift card store coding as dining to sub-$200 in-store buys that track on Rakuten during 12x promos.The stacking chapter is where balances jump. We share how we earned 200k+ through Rakuten alone, the new Rakuten-to-Bilt 1:1 window, and how to layer card-linked offers from Chase and Amex for double-dip savings. We also cover underused levers that don't require new accounts: Amex checking bonuses, retention asks after the annual fee posts, strategic downgrades to set up upgrade offers later, and targeted employee card offers on Amex business products that award points for manageable spend across multiple cards.Looking ahead, we're eyeing Bilt cards for mortgage earn, a rumored Chase-Hyatt premium card that pairs well with Globalist, and spring Hilton Surpass promos with free night certificates. For advanced players, we touch on Aspire–Surpass upgrade/downgrade sequencing to generate multiple uncapped Hilton free nights. For beginners, we keep it simple: anchor one great sign-up bonus, route your top categories into 3x–6x earners, and try one clean portal stack on a purchase you were already making.If you found this helpful, follow the show, share it with a friend who wants to travel more for less, and leave a quick review. Your support helps more families learn how to turn everyday spend into real-world adventures.

In this episode of The Negotiation, host Todd Embley welcomes back Olivia Plotnick, Founder of Wai Social and one of the most insightful voices on Chinese consumer culture and digital marketing.Olivia recently embarked on a remarkable journey across 32 cities in China over 60 days, immersing herself in the country's diverse regional cultures and uncovering how people live, shop, and connect with brands today. From Tier 1 cities like Shanghai and Beijing to emerging urban centers, Olivia shares her firsthand observations of the evolving Chinese consumer landscape — revealing both common threads and striking regional contrasts.The conversation explores the resurgence of offline retail, the growing influence of local brands, and what international businesses can learn from how China's next generation of consumers engage with products, experiences, and storytelling. Olivia also reflects on her favorite moments from the road and offers advice for brands and travelers alike seeking an elevated understanding of today's modern China. Enjoy!Discussion Points:·       What inspired Olivia's 60-day, 32-city journey across China·       High-level takeaways about Chinese consumer trends and culture·       Differences in consumer behavior between major cities and emerging markets·       How offline retail and experience-driven shopping are evolving·       Insights into how Chinese and international brands connect differently with consumers·       What the trip revealed about the next generation of Chinese shoppers·       Stories and standout moments from her travels·       Olivia's personal recommendations for cities to visit in China

In Episode 146, Angie Sparks and Joe Petrovic recap their weekend at Chicago Seminars, highlight a timely AT201 post about preparing for phone theft while traveling, and cover key news including IHG's 100% points bonus, an elevated United Club Card offer, and early hints of a new Hyatt credit card. They also touch on current transfer bonuses, mileage sales, status matches, and the launch of Bilt earnings through Rakuten.The main discussion focuses on Chicago Seminars itself—a volunteer-run, charity-driven event where roughly half the attendees are first-timers. Angie and Joe share takeaways from the sessions, standout speakers, and the strong community aspect, noting the event raised nearly $32,000 for charity this year. Travel disruptions added extra drama, with Angie navigating a last-minute cancellation thanks to backup options and miles. They close by encouraging newcomers to attend next year and share an ExpertFlyer tip for checking why a flight was canceled.Where to Find Us The Award Travel 101 Facebook Community. To book time with our team, check out Award Travel 1-on-1. You can also email us at 101@award.travel Buy your Award Travel 101 Merch here Reserve tickets to our Spring 2026 Meetup in Phoenix now. award.travel/phx2026 Our partner CardPointers helps us get the most from our cards. Signup today at https://cardpointers.com/at101 for a 30% discount on annual and lifetime subscriptions! Lastly, we appreciate your support of the AT101 Podcast/Community when you signup for your next card! Technical note: Some user experience difficulty streaming the podcast while connected to a VPN. If you have difficulty, disconnect from your VPN.

AST SpaceMobile hat innerhalb weniger Monate enorme Aufmerksamkeit auf sich gezogen. Der Kurs des jungen Unternehmens, das über einen SPAC an die Börse gelangte, hat sich nach Jahren der Schwäche zeitweise vervielfacht, und damit Erwartungen geweckt, die deutlich über dem heutigen Geschäftsvolumen liegen. Die entscheidende Frage lautet, wie stabil dieser Anstieg ist und welche Annahmen ihn tragen. Der Blick in die verfügbaren Daten zeigt ein Unternehmen in einer frühen Entwicklungsphase: geringe Umsätze, hohe Verluste und ein Geschäftsmodell, das erst in den kommenden Jahren skalieren soll. Gleichzeitig zieht die Technologie namhafte Partner an. Vodafone, Rakuten und AT&T unterstützen die Idee eines Mobilfunknetzes, das nicht mehr auf Funkmasten angewiesen ist, sondern über große Antennensatelliten im niedrigen Erdorbit funktioniert. Auch American Tower, bislang Betreiber klassischer Infrastruktur, und Alphabet sind beteiligt, was die strategische Bedeutung des Projekts unterstreicht. Im Marktvergleich fällt auf, wie unterschiedlich die Entwicklungen innerhalb der Branche verlaufen. Während Globalstar zuletzt stärker performte, kämpfen Unternehmen wie EchoStar oder Viasat mit anhaltenden Herausforderungen. Der Wettbewerb mit Starlink, das nicht börsennotiert ist, setzt zudem hohe technologische Standards, die AST SpaceMobile erst noch erreichen muss. All das spiegelt sich in einer Bewertung wider, die weit über den traditionellen Kennzahlen anderer Anbieter liegt. Dieser Überblick beschreibt, welche Erwartungen im Kurs eingepreist sind, wo die größten Unsicherheiten liegen und in welchem Spannungsfeld sich AST SpaceMobile derzeit bewegt. Die Analyse verknüpft Kursentwicklung, Fundamentaldaten und Branchenumfeld, um ein Bild davon zu zeichnen, wie realistisch die prognostizierten Wachstumsraten sind, und welche Faktoren darüber entscheiden, ob das Unternehmen seiner ambitionierten Rolle gerecht werden kann. Inhaltsverzeichnis00:00 Intro00:54 Langfristiger Chart: AST SpaceMobile02:46 AST SpaceMobile vs. VanEck Space Innovators ETF vs. S&P 500 vs. Industrie-ETF (XLI)03:33 AST SpaceMobile vs. Globalstar vs. EchoStar vs. Viasat04:03 Historie von SAST SpaceMobile05:10 Geschäftsmodell von AST SpaceMobile06:35 Geschäftsbereiche im Detail08:19 Produktion & Kooperation mit SpaceX09:39 Global Space-Based Network Market10:11 Burggraben11:05 Inhaberschaft im Detail13:14 Umsatz- & Margen-Entwicklung14:42 Umsatz nach Segmenten & Regionen15:05 Gewinn, CashFlows & Dividenden15:50 Bilanzüberblick16:16 Aktienrückkäufe16:50 Kennzahlen (KUV) vs. Wettbewerber17:40 Bewertung zu AST SpaceMobile18:50 Chartanalyse AST SpaceMobile19:50 Ist die AST SpaceMobile Aktie derzeit ein Kauf?22:50 Disclaimer23:35 Danke fürs Einschalten!

Japan's Rakuten Group Inc. has reported a consolidated net loss of 151.2 billion yen for January-September, reflecting losses related to its partial withdrawal from the online supermarket business despite smaller losses in its mobile phone carrier operations.

HPのPCに「Rakuten AI」標準搭載へ　オフラインでも使えるオンデバイスAI内蔵。　楽天グループと日本HPは11月11日、国内で販売するHP製PCに、AIツール「Rakuten AI」のデスクトップ版を標準搭載すると発表した。2026年春から夏にかけて、個人向け・法人向けのほぼ全モデルに順次導入する。Rakuten AIが他社製デバイスに搭載されるのは初めて。オフラインでも動作するオンデバイスAIとしての提供も初となる。

This week on Wonderland on Points, we're unpacking one of the biggest shakeups in travel rewards — the new Bilt and Rakuten partnership. You can now link your Rakuten and Bilt accounts to turn cashback into Bilt Rewards points, even without the Bilt card. We explain how it works, why it matters, and what this means for anyone earning through shopping portals.We also share updates on Bilt Card 2.0, new Hyatt rumors, and how Chase Sapphire Reserve may soon unlock elite status. If you want to make your everyday spending work harder — from rent to retail — this episode has everything you need to know.Find Us On OnlineMary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogEpisode SponsorComfrt Hoodie EXTRA 15% OFF of Black Friday Sale Prices!Youtube Review of Comfrt HoodiesAffiliate LinksRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card Links30% off the CardPointers subscription!FlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

Newly promoted and still stuck in "super-doer" mode? Here's how to rebalance control, culture, and delegation so the whole team scales—safely and fast.  Why do new managers struggle when they're promoted from "star doer" to "leader"? Because your brain stays in production mode while your job has shifted to people, culture, and systems. After promotion, you're accountable not only for your own KPIs but for the entire team's outcomes. It's tempting to cling to tasks you control—dashboards, sequencing, reporting—because they're tangible and quick wins. But 2025 leadership in Japan, Australia, the US, and Europe demands more: setting strategy, articulating vision, and developing capability. The pivot is psychological—move from "I produce" to "I enable production," or you'll cap growth and burn out. Do now: List your top five "leader-only" responsibilities and five tasks to delegate this week; schedule handovers with owners and dates.  Mini-summary: New leaders fail by over-doing; succeed by re-wiring attention from personal output to team capability. What's the practical difference between managing processes and leading people? Managers ensure things are done right; leaders ensure we're doing the right things—and growing people as we go.Processes secure quality, timeliness, budget discipline, and compliance. Leadership adds direction: strategy, culture, talent development, and context setting. Across sectors—manufacturing in Aichi, B2B SaaS in Seattle, retail in Sydney—over-indexing on process alone turns humans into "system attachments," stifling initiative and innovation. Over-indexing on people without controls risks safety, regulatory breaches, and inconsistent delivery. The art is dynamic dosage: tighten or loosen controls as competency, risk, and stakes shift. Do now: For each workflow, rate "risk" and "competency." High risk/low competency → tighter checks; low risk/high competency → more autonomy.  Mini-summary: Processes protect, people propel; leaders tune both based on risk and capability. How much control is "just enough" without killing initiative or risking compliance? Use the guardrail test: prevent safety/compliance violations while leaving room for stretch, accountability, and growth. Post-pandemic supply chains, ESG scrutiny, and Japan's regulator expectations mean leaders can't "set and forget." Too few checks invite fines—or jail time for accountable officers; too many checks create Theory X micromanagement that freezes learning. Borrow from Toyota's jidoka spirit: stop the line when risk spikes, but otherwise let teams problem-solve. In SMEs and startups, standardise the critical few controls (safety, security, data) and keep the rest principle-based to preserve speed. Do now: Write a one-page "controls charter" listing non-negotiables (safety, compliance) and "managed freedoms" (experiments, pilots, scope to improve).  Mini-summary: Guardrails first, freedom second—enough control to stay legal and safe, enough autonomy to develop people. How do I stop doing my team's work and start scaling through delegation? Delegate outcomes, not chores—and accept short-term pain for long-term scale. Many first-time managers keep their player tasks because they distrust others or fear being accountable for mistakes. That works for a quarter, not a year. By FY2026, targets rise while your personal capacity doesn't. Multinationals from Rakuten to Siemens train leaders to assign the "what" and "why," agree on milestones and quality criteria, then coach on the "how." Expect a temporary dip as skills climb; measure trajectory, not perfection. Do now: Pick two tasks you still hoard. Define success, constraints, and checkpoints; delegate by Friday, then coach at the first checkpoint.  Mini-summary: Let go to grow; specify outcomes and coach to capability. How can I balance micro-management and neglect in day-to-day leadership? Replace "hovering" and "hands-off" with scheduled, high-leverage follow-up. Micromanagement announces low trust; neglect announces low care. Instead, run structured check-ins: purpose, progress, problems, pivots. In regulated environments (banks, healthcare, manufacturing), confirm evidence of controls; in creative or GTM teams, probe learning, experiments, and customer signals. Across APAC, leaders who share decision frameworks (RACI/DACI; risk thresholds; escalation paths) cut rework and surprise escalations. Do now: Implement a weekly 20-minute "PPP" per direct report—Progress (facts), Problems (risks), Pivots (next choices)—with artefacts attached in advance.  Mini-summary: Neither smother nor ignore—use predictable, evidence-based check-ins to align and de-risk. When should leaders "lead from the front" versus "get out of the way"? Front-load leadership in ambiguity; step back once clarity, competence, and controls exist. In crises, new markets, or safety-critical launches, visible, directive leadership calms noise and sets pace (think: first 90 days of a turnaround or a factory start-up). As routines stabilise, flip to servant leadership: remove blockers, broker resources, and celebrate small wins. In Japan, Nemawashi-style groundwork before meetings accelerates execution; in the US and Europe, crisp owner-dated action registers keep speed without rework. The best leaders oscillate based on context, not ego. Do now: For each initiative, label its phase (Explore/Build/Run). Explore = lead hands-on; Build = co-pilot; Run = empower with audits.  Mini-summary: Lead hard in fog; empower once the road is clear and guardrails hold. Conclusion: your real job is capability, culture, and controlled freedom Great organisations don't trade people for process or vice-versa—they orchestrate both. As of 2025, the winners grow leaders who tune controls to risk, develop people faster than targets rise, and delegate outcomes with smart follow-up. Stop carrying the team on your back. Build a team that carries the work—safely, compliantly, and proudly.  Optional FAQs Is micromanagement ever right? Only for high-risk, low-competency tasks; use it briefly, with a plan to taper. What if my team is slower than me? That's normal initially; coach cadence and quality, not perfection. How do I avoid regulator trouble? Document controls, evidence checks, and incident response paths; audit monthly. What do I say to ex-peers I now manage? Reset expectations: new role, shared goals, clear decision rights, and escalation routes.  Next steps for leaders/executives Write your one-page controls charter and review it with Legal/Compliance. Convert two "player" tasks into delegated outcomes this week. Install weekly PPP check-ins with artefacts attached in advance. Map each initiative to Explore/Build/Run and adjust your involvement accordingly.  Author Credentials Dr. Greg Story, Ph.D. in Japanese Decision-Making, is President of Dale Carnegie Tokyo Training and Adjunct Professor at Griffith University. He is a two-time winner of the Dale Carnegie "One Carnegie Award" (2018, 2021) and recipient of the Griffith University Business School Outstanding Alumnus Award (2012). As a Dale Carnegie Master Trainer, Greg is certified to deliver globally across all leadership, communication, sales, and presentation programs, including Leadership Training for Results. He has written several books, including three best-sellers — Japan Business Mastery, Japan Sales Mastery, and Japan Presentations Mastery — along with Japan Leadership Mastery and How to Stop Wasting Money on Training. His works have been translated into Japanese, including Za Eigyō (ザ営業), Purezen no Tatsujin (プレゼンの達人), Torēningu de Okane o Muda ni Suru no wa Yamemashō (トレーニングでお金を無駄にするのはやめましょう), and Gendaiban "Hito o Ugokasu" Rīdā (現代版「人を動かす」リーダー). Greg also publishes daily business insights on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter, and hosts six weekly podcasts. On YouTube, he produces The Cutting Edge Japan Business Show, Japan Business Mastery, and Japan's Top Business Interviews. 

A bunch of game-changing news came up last week, right after we recorded our Coffee Break episode (which we'd recorded a day earlier than usual). We'll cover those changes in today's Coffee Break episode.(00:56) - Rumor: 200K Chase Sapphire Reserve® in-branch offer for some customers(02:49) - Rakuten portal now lets you earn Bilt points (03:44) - You can learn more about the friend referral bonus here.(05:35) - New Hyatt card coming(09:36) - Hilton to add elite tier above Diamond (Diamond Reserve) and Milestone Rewards(15:52) - Visa and Mastercard reportedly nearing a settlement, allowing merchants to stop accepting rewards cardsVisit https://frequentmiler.com/subscribe to get updated on in-depth points and miles content like this, and don't forget to like and follow us on social media.Music Credit – Beach Walk by Unicorn Heads

這裡是樂天桃猿球迷向的非官方Podcast，請善用時間標記選擇想聽的話題。 ++++++ ** 『永豐銀行合作推廣』** 永豐SPORT卡是一張用汗水賺回饋的信用卡，只要每月加入永豐銀行的“汗水不白流”APP，參加【支持運動Podcast】揪團活動，達成app裡設計的運動目標，同時當月刷永豐SPORT卡，永豐銀行就會幫你抖內大叔野球543，抖內金額是每個卡戶刷卡消費的1%，或是一個人最多上限50元/月，再加上卡片本身是有最高6%回饋，就算運動沒達標，仍然有不錯的回饋讓大家來參考。支持永豐sport卡，支持大叔野球543，我們每年都會提撥固定比例跟你贊助基層棒球。 最後還是要謹慎理財，信用至上 申辦SPORT卡：https://mma.tw/O03BB ** ++++++** ** 留言回覆： (02:22)** 2025中華職棒年度頒獎典禮 (09:15) FA新聞 1504林智平一轟的價值 (19:55) ++++++ 上週比賽回顧 11/8 VS 樂天金鷲 11/9 VS KT Wiz (22:05) 卉妮奔妮相見歡，Lady Wiz人氣熱潮 (26:19) ++++++ ** 二軍宿舍事件持續延燒 (30:18)** ** 古久保健二總教練被突襲Thank You (47:30)** ** 實地路過二軍宿舍 (1:05:43)** --- 本獨立單元是針對樂天桃猿的各種動態以球迷視角製作的節目；主要的內容除了賽事回顧，還有聊聊其他球場內外的相關話題。因為球場不靠海，怕食材不新鮮所以不餵你吃整鍋牡蠣，因為考量牙齒保健，所以酸度大概至少讓你喝到醋。 這是一個主要聊台灣棒球的Podcast節目，我們沒有精闢的解說，也沒有專業的數據，就是幾個愛棒球的大叔和聽眾們一同喇賽、一同嘴砲~~ 大家可以在相關的 Podcast APP 收聽我們的節目，希望大家可以介紹給喜愛棒球的朋友們。 如果喜歡我們的節目，也希望大家可以在 Apple Podcast 專區給我們五顆星。 有興趣合作的廠商歡迎私訊或email聊聊 email：baseballuncle543@outlook.com IG：baseballuncle543 FB：大叔野球543 －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 新北市政府就業服務處提供全方位就業協助， 設有8個就業服務站、16個服務台及5個偏鄉駐點， 2025年底將增設林口站，成為全國服務據點最多的城市。 滿足不同族群需求，幫助您輕鬆找到理想工作。 以上為新北市政府就業服務處廣告 連結：https://sofm.pse.is/8brspq -- 你了解自己的健康嗎？ Garmin Venu 4 不只是運動手錶， 從訓練、睡眠到壓力與能量全面掌握， 智慧分析＋個人化建議， 搭配最長 12 天超長續航， 讓健康管理更輕鬆、更聰明～ 立即了解→https://sofm.pse.is/8brspl -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Is it too soon to start having the conversation about the 2025-26 Brantford Bulldogs and the best CHL teams ever? At least one guy on this podcast doesn't think so. And for anyone who does think it's too soon, how many more wins before you start?? The 'Dogs are dominant as we pass the quarter-mark of this season, the Ottawa 67's can no longer be called a surprise ... and they're getting a fancy new arena to boot! The weekly Wraparound gives you a glimpse into every OHL market, the guys remember Leon Stickle, and, of course, you'll get some insight into those USHL-CHL merger rumours. Along with Farwell and Dan's Prospects of the Week, you'll also get some insight from a guy who coached top talent last summer at the U17s and U18s. You can listen to the entire interview with Mathieu Turcotte here. The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook and produced in partnership with Rakuten. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If your buyer can swap you out without pain, you don't have a USP — you have a pricing problem. In crowded markets (including post-pandemic), the game is won by changing the battlefield from price to value and risk reduction for the client. This playbook reframes features into outcomes and positions your offer so a rational buyer can't treat you as interchangeable.   Why do USPs matter more than ever in 2025? Because buyers default to "safe" and "cheap" unless you prove "different" and "better". As procurement tightens across Japan, the US, and Europe, incumbent vendors and new entrants flood categories, dragging deals into discount wars. Shift the conversation from line-items to business outcomes: time saved, revenue gained, risk removed. In Japan's consensus-driven buying, precedent and social proof are de-riskers; in the US, speed and ROI proof points get you shortlisted; in Europe, compliance and sustainability signals matter. Use comparative, sector-specific language (SMB vs. enterprise, B2B vs. consumer) so your value feels native to each buyer's reality. Do now: List 3 outcomes you deliver that a competitor cannot credibly claim, and make them the first 90 seconds of every sales conversation. Summary: Lead with outcomes and risk reduction, not features or price. How do you turn features into buyer-relevant outcomes? Translate specs into "jobs done" with timestamps and dollars attached. If you "sell training," your buyer actually wants higher per-rep revenue and lower ramp time; the workshop is just the tool. Frame cause-and-effect: "As of 2025, teams using our method cut onboarding by 30–60 days," or "post-implementation, win-rates rose 8–12% in enterprise accounts." Compare across contexts: startups prize speed-to-first-value; multinationals prize uniformity at scale. Anchor with entities to boost credibility: "Aligned to Dale Carnegie's behavioural change frameworks and Fortune 500 norms." Do now: For each feature, write: "So that the buyer can ___ by ___ date, measured by ___." Then delete the feature and keep the sentence. Summary: Convert every spec into a measurable, time-bound business result. What proof calms executive risk in consensus markets like Japan? Show durable track record and mainstream precedent, not hype. Tenure ("operating since 1912"), adoption ("serving a majority of Fortune 500"), and multi-market delivery ("100+ countries") signal you're not an experiment. Executives at firms like Toyota and Rakuten want to see that others have done due diligence and achieved consistent outcomes. Present proof as risk offsets: longevity = vendor stability; blue-chip logos = quality validation; global presence = repeatability across geographies and languages. In Europe, add references to ISO-aligned processes; in the US, reference board-level impacts and revenue KPIs. Do now: Build a one-page "Risk Reducers" sheet with 5 credibility markers and a 3-line narrative for each. Summary: Package track record as risk insurance for the buyer. How do you compete on instructor quality without sounding generic? Expose the standard, the filter, and the client-side benefit. "250 hours of train-the-trainer over ~18 months" is a rigorous filter; say what it fixes: variability. Many training vendors have star-and-struggle instructors; your certification process "cures" inconsistency, delivering predictable outcomes across cohorts and locations. Tie this to executive concerns: CFOs fear wasted spend; CHROs fear uneven adoption; Sales VPs fear lost quarters. As of 2025, quantify where possible (completion rates, manager NPS, behavioural transfer at 90 days) and compare to sector benchmarks. Do now: Turn your internal QA process into a 5-step visual the buyer can explain internally. Summary: Make your quality bar tangible and link it to reduced variance in outcomes. How do you avoid the price trap in late-stage negotiations? Re-anchor total value and introduce "switching cost of downgrade." When rivals discount, show the cost of failure: extended ramp, inconsistent delivery, and lost deals. Use a simple model: (Expected Revenue Uplift + Risk Reduction Value) − (Implementation & Change Costs). Add comparative caselets: "In APAC, an SME cut churn 3 points post-programme; in North America, a SaaS enterprise lifted ASP by 6%." Create a "good–better–best" offer that scales outcomes, not just hours. Do now: Bring a 1-page value calculator to every Stage-3 meeting; make the CFO your audience. Summary: Move from hourly rate to enterprise value and downgrade risk. How do you tailor USPs for global rollout without bloating the pitch? Modularise by region, role, and sector; keep a common spine. The spine: outcomes, risk reducers, delivery quality. The modules: language and cultural localisation (Japan vs. ASEAN vs. EMEA), regulatory anchors (EU GDPR, Japan's labour reforms), and sector examples (manufacturing vs. SaaS vs. consumer). Your global network isn't trivia; it's the operational proof that content lands locally — language, idiom, and facilitation calibrated to context. Keep sections tight: 3 bullets per role (CEO, CFO, HR, Sales). Do now: Build a 9-cell USP matrix (Region × Role × Sector) with one killer proof point per cell. Summary: One message, many modules — local relevance on a global chassis. What rehearsal builds salesperson muscle memory on USPs? Daily, 10-minute role plays that start with objections. Freshness decays; script drift is real. Start with the toughest objections ("We can swap you out," "Your competitor is 20% cheaper") and practise crisp, evidence-backed responses that land in under 30 seconds. Include a checklist: outcome first, proof second, risk reducer third, price last. Record, score, and iterate. By week two, rotate markets (Japan vs. US) and sectors to keep reps adaptive. Do now: Add a morning "USP stand-up": 2 reps, 2 objections, 2 minutes each, every day. Summary: Reps don't rise to your USPs — they fall to their practice. Conclusion Pricing fights are the path to oblivion. Position with outcomes, prove with precedent, operationalise with quality, regionalise with intent, and practise until it's muscle memory. That's how you make "different and better" undeniable — and un-swappable.  FAQs What's the fastest way to sharpen a dull USP? Start with outcomes and risk, cut features, and add one killer proof point per market. Then rehearse daily. How many USPs should we show? Three is plenty: one outcome, one risk reducer, one delivery advantage — tailored by role and region. What if a rival undercuts price by 20%? Re-anchor to enterprise value and switching-cost of downgrade; offer modular "good–better–best." Quick actions for leaders Commission a 1-page "Risk Reducers" sheet with proof. Ship a value calculator for CFO-friendly re-anchoring. Launch a daily "USP stand-up" with objection drills. Author Dr. Greg Story, Ph.D. in Japanese Decision-Making, is President of Dale Carnegie Tokyo Training and Adjunct Professor at Griffith University. He is a two-time winner of the Dale Carnegie "One Carnegie Award" (2018, 2021) and recipient of the Griffith University Business School Outstanding Alumnus Award (2012). As a Dale Carnegie Master Trainer, Greg is certified to deliver globally across all leadership, communication, sales, and presentation programmes, including Leadership Training for Results. He has written several books, including three best-sellers — Japan Business Mastery, Japan Sales Mastery, and Japan Presentations Mastery — along with Japan Leadership Mastery and How to Stop Wasting Money on Training. His works have been translated into Japanese, including Za Eigyō (ザ営業), Purezen no Tatsujin (プレゼンの達人), Torēningu de Okane o Muda ni Suru no wa Yamemashō (トレーニングでお金を無駄にするのはやめましょう), and Gendaiban "Hito o Ugokasu" Rīdā (現代版「人を動かす」リーダー).

日本HPのPCにデスクトップ版「Rakuten AI」をプリインストール　2026年春～夏モデルに。　楽天グループと日本HPは11月11日、楽天グループが開発するAIツール「Rakuten AI」のデスクトップ版を日本HP製PCにプリインストール（初期導入）することを発表した。2026年春～夏に発売されるほぼ全ての個人／法人向けPCが対象で、オンライン／オフライン両方で利用可能だ。

Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description On this episode of MTM Travel we cover the latest in the FAA cancelation fiasco as a deal appears to have been reached to reopen the government and bring flights back to 100%. We also discuss Bilt's big news about their new cards and perks coming in 2026, Chase & Hyatt extending their partnership and teasing a new card plus Mark's return to SoCal including the Universal Studios VIP tour and his favorite beach hotel in the United States. 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 1:15 FAA cutbacks over? Deal finally reached 3:11 Delta marketing conspiracy? 6:15 We still have an aircraft controller problem 9:40 Bilt Rewards transition details - Mortgage payments! 13:31 Rakuten adds Bilt as cashback partner 17:25 Miles N More added for first time as a U.S. transfer partner 21:47 Chase & Hyatt extend partnership - New perks and cards?! 27:15 Sapphire Reserve 200K offers coming? 29:15 Universal Studios VIP again - Still worth it? 35:37 Oceana LXR Hilton review - Favorite property in SoCal? Links Hyatt premium card - https://travel-on-points.com/hyatt-status-on-sapphire-reserve-cards/ Bilt/Rakuten - https://travel-on-points.com/bilt-rewards-rakuten-payout/ Rove Miles - https://travel-on-points.com/rove-miles-adds-miles-more-transfer-partner/ Bilt Changes - https://travel-on-points.com/bilt-cardless-timeline/ Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at podcast@milestomemories.com.  You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, or via RSS. Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!

Send us a textThe Third Way - The Intrapreneur's Path from Inside with Junichi YamashitaWhen people talk about innovation, they present two choices: leave and start fresh, or stay and accept the status quo. But there's a third way—proven in Japanese organizations by someone who's walked this path multiple times.Junichi Yamashita built digital products used by millions—Coke ON (65M downloads), multiple Rakuten ventures—all from inside established companies. This isn't theory. It's how innovation actually happens in Japanese organizations, told by someone who's done it repeatedly.✅ What You'll LearnHow to create momentum when starting with nothingThe two types of "no" in Japanese business—and why it mattersGetting beyond inspiration: the actual logistics of innovationCreating scenarios that win stakeholder supportBeing different as an advantage in your organizationDX lessons that matter for AI transformation

  Your audience buys your message only after they buy you. In today's era of cynicism and AI summaries, leaders need crisp structure, vivid evidence, and confident delivery to represent their organisation—and brand—brilliantly. How much does speaker credibility matter in 2025 presentations? It's everything: audiences project their judgment of you onto your entire organisation. If you're sharp, fluent and prepared, stakeholders assume your firm operates the same way; if you're sloppy or vague, they infer risk. As of 2025, investor updates in Tokyo, Sydney, and New York are consumed live, clipped for LinkedIn, and indexed by AI search—so your credibility compounds across channels. Leaders at firms from Toyota and Rakuten to Atlassian and BHP stress rehearsal and message discipline because buyers, partners, and regulators hear signals about reliability long before they see your product. Do now: Audit your last talk: would a first-time viewer conclude your organisation is trustworthy, capable, and disciplined? How do I present my organisation positively without sounding like propaganda? State benefits confidently, then anchor every claim in proof your audience recognises. Overstating capabilities triggers scepticism; neutral facts plus applied benefits overcome it. Reference entities, laws, or standards—e.g., ISO 9001, METI guidelines in Japan, GDPR in Europe—to show your claims live in the real world. Contrast SMEs vs. multinationals or Japan vs. US timelines to demonstrate nuance. Replace fuzzy adjectives ("world-class") with specific outcomes (e.g., "reduced defect rates 18% in FY2024 under ISO audits"). Audiences accept pride when it rides on verifiable evidence they can apply in their own context. Do now: Rework three bold claims into "benefit + evidence + application" sentences your buyers can use tomorrow. What opening grabs attention in the first 15 seconds? Start with a hook that slices through distraction: a killer stat, pithy quote, or compact story. In post-pandemic rooms and hybrid webinars, you're competing with phones and email. Use a "Time/Cost/Risk" opener: "In Q4 2024, procurement cycles in APAC shrank 21%—if your proposals still open with specs, you're already late." Or tell a 30-second story of defeat-to-triumph that spotlights your customer, not your logo. Then preview your message map ("three things you'll leave with"), so listeners know the journey and AI chapter markers index your sections. Do now: Script two alternative openers—a stat and a story—and A/B test them with colleagues before the real audience. What messages should I emphasise—and how often? Decide your one big message, say it early, reinforce it before Q&A, and repeat it in your final close. As of 2025, attention is nonlinear: people join midstream, catch a clip, or ask a question that derails flow. A tight message spine ("We help Japan-market entrants compress trust-building from 12 months to 12 weeks") beats a data dump. Use three proof pillars (customer result, operational metric, external validation) and echo your core line at strategic moments: minute 1, pre-Q&A, and final close. This rhythm works for startups pitching in Shibuya and for multinationals briefing in Frankfurt alike. Do now: Write your message in ≤12 words and place it in your opening, bridge to Q&A, and final close. What counts as convincing evidence in the era of cynicism and "fake news"? Offer vivid, memorable proof your audience can verify or try: numbers, named customers, and testable steps. Quote audited metrics ("FY2024 churn down 2.3% after onboarding redesign"), recognised frameworks (OKRs, ITIL), and respected third parties (Nikkei, OECD, Gartner). Translate facts into benefits ("cut QA cycle from 10 to 6 days") and immediately show how they can apply it ("here's our 3-step checklist"). Cross-compare markets—Japan's consensus cycles vs. US speed—to explain variance, not hide it. The goal: evidence that travels—accurate, sticky, and portable to their context. Do now: For every sweeping statement in your deck, add a proof line: metric, name, or external authority. How do I sound confident and enthusiastic without memorising a script? Use slide headlines as navigation, rehearse fluency, and speak with earned enthusiasm. You don't need to memorise paragraphs; you need mastery of transitions. Treat each slide as a question your headline answers, then talk to the point. Record three practice runs to strip filler ("um/ah"), smooth hesitations, and calibrate pace. Leaders with phenomenal stories often under-sell them—bring the energy you'd expect from a luxury marque unveiling or a resource-sector breakthrough. Enthusiasm signals belief; fluency signals competence; together they convert sceptics. Do now: Replace paragraph notes with 1-line headlines + 3 bullet prompts; rehearse until transitions are automatic. How should I close so people remember—and take action? Use a two-stage close: a pre-Q&A recap to cement the big idea, then a final close to shape the last impression. Before Q&A, restate your message and one action you want (trial, site visit, pilot). After Q&A, re-close with a memorable line that ties benefits to their context ("This quarter, let's turn your Japan market risk into repeatable revenue"). Offer a concrete next step for each segment—enterprise buyers, mid-market, and partners—so momentum doesn't leak after applause. Do now: Script two closes (pre-Q&A and final) and attach the precise call-to-action you want from each audience type. Conclusion Great company talks aren't complex—they're disciplined. Structure for attention, prove with evidence, deliver with fluency and real enthusiasm, and close twice. Whether you're a startup founder or a multinational executive, this cadence protects your brand and accelerates decisions across markets. FAQs What if my industry forbids customer names? Use anonymised metrics, third-party audits, and regulator thresholds to validate outcomes. Provide process evidence instead of logos. How long should this talk be? For 20 minutes, use 5–7 slides. Longer briefings expand examples, not messages. What changes for Japan vs. US? Japan values group risk reduction and stakeholder alignment; show consensus wins. US rooms reward speed and testable pilots. Next steps for leaders/executives Book a rehearsal with two "friendly sceptics" this week. Convert three claims into "benefit + evidence + application." Script the two closes and a one-line core message. Record and review a 5-minute demo talk; remove filler. Author Dr. Greg Story, Ph.D. in Japanese Decision-Making, is President of Dale Carnegie Tokyo Training and Adjunct Professor at Griffith University. He is a two-time winner of the Dale Carnegie "One Carnegie Award" (2018, 2021) and recipient of the Griffith University Business School Outstanding Alumnus Award (2012). As a Dale Carnegie Master Trainer, Greg is certified to deliver globally across all leadership, communication, sales, and presentation programs, including Leadership Training for Results. He has written several books, including three best-sellers — Japan Business Mastery, Japan Sales Mastery, and Japan Presentations Mastery — along with Japan Leadership Mastery and How to Stop Wasting Money on Training. His works have been translated into Japanese, including Za Eigyō (ザ営業), Purezen no Tatsujin (プレゼンの達人), Torēningu de Okane o Muda ni Suru no wa Yamemashō (トレーニングでお金を無駄にするのはやめましょう), and Gendaiban "Hito o Ugokasu" Rīdā (現代版「人を動かす」リーダー). Greg also publishes daily business insights on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter, and hosts six weekly podcasts. On YouTube, he produces The Cutting Edge Japan Business Show, Japan Business Mastery, and Japan's Top Business Interviews, which are widely followed by executives seeking success strategies in Japan.

There have been so many rumors, and nastiness, about whether RHONJ's future will be announced in five short days when BravoCon 2025 begins, but today we expose the real reasons this once top rated show is still on pause and the likelihood that it will come off pause any time in the future. Speaking of BravoCon, for those going, we break down how to navigate this large convention which can feel overwhelming to many, how to get the most bang for your buck and, most importantly, how to get maximum tea and meet as many Bravolebrities as possible. Finally, with two parts of the reunion to go, we discuss the likelihood that RHOC will go on pause now that it has become as toxic as RHONJ with bloggers, leaked stories, private investigators and oh, so very much more that we have not even begun to scratch the surface! @behindvelvetrope @davidyontef BONUS & AD FREE EPISODES Available at - www.patreon.com/behindthevelvetrope  BROUGHT TO YOU BY: THEREALREAL - therealreal.com/velvetrope (Get $25 Off At the Best Place To Shop Authenticated Luxury Bags, Clothing, Watches & more) RAKUTEN - rakuten.co.uk (Go To Rakuten.co.uk, Download The App Or Install The Browser Extension To Earn Cash Back While You Shop At All Your Favorite Stores) MOOD - www.mood.com/velvet (20% Off With Code Velvet on Federally Legal THC Shipped Right To Your Door) RO - ro.co/velvet (For Prescription Compounded GLP-1s and Your Free Insurance Check) PROGRESSIVE - www.progressive.com (Visit Progressive.com To See If You Could Save On Car Insurance) ADVERTISING INQUIRIES - Please contact David@advertising-execs.com MERCH Available at - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/behind-the-velvet-rope?ref_id=13198 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Teresa may be the first guest on Jennifer Aydin's new podcast but all is not as it seems. Who is using who, who is really mad at who, what role did BravoCon play in all of this and why RHIONJ will not be back to filming anytime even remotely soon.  Aaron Phypers may be playing it real cool with a huge smile on his face but the future does not look so bright so he can keep his shades at home. A new well known actress' name is being tossed around to throw into the RHOBH mix and we are so very much here for it. Tia and Angel make their mark and let their voices be heard again the OG's on RHOP. Selling Sunset's new season drama is in full effect both on and off the show. Last, but not least, Bethenny Frankel takes a break from TikTok and saving the world to let us know she is gonna help us all find love and other stuff.  @behindvelvetrope @davidyontef BONUS & AD FREE EPISODES Available at - www.patreon.com/behindthevelvetrope  BROUGHT TO YOU BY: RO - ro.co/velvet (For Prescription Compounded GLP-1s and Your Free Insurance Check) THEREALREAL - therealreal.com/velvetrope (Get $25 Off At the Best Place To Shop Authenticated Luxury Bags, Clothing, Watches & more) RAKUTEN - rakuten.co.uk (Go To Rakuten.co.uk, Download The App Or Install The Browser Extension To Earn Cash Back While You Shop At All Your Favorite Stores) MOOD - www.mood.com/velvet (20% Off With Code Velvet on Federally Legal THC Shipped Right To Your Door) PROGRESSIVE - www.progressive.com (Visit Progressive.com To See If You Could Save On Car Insurance) ADVERTISING INQUIRIES - Please contact David@advertising-execs.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He$$ hath frozen over. It is official. Teresa, Louie, Joe and Melissa Gorga have all met for dinner. Who, what, when, where and let's be honest, despite what Teresa claims, we all know the why. Dolores tries to enter the reconciliation convo but Gia Junior G shuts that shi$ down as fast as you can flip a table. The rumors grow stronger that the RHONY OG's are making a return to Bravo sooner than later. Finally, it seems Tamra Judge and Lisa Barlow have a lot more in common than meets the eye. @behindvelvetrope @davidyontef BONUS & AD FREE EPISODES Available at - www.patreon.com/behindthevelvetrope  BROUGHT TO YOU BY: RO - ro.co/velvet (For Prescription Compounded GLP-1s and Your Free Insurance Check) THEREALREAL - therealreal.com/velvetrope (Get $25 Off At the Best Place To Shop Authenticated Luxury Bags, Clothing, Watches & more) RAKUTEN - rakuten.co.uk (Go To Rakuten.co.uk, Download The App Or Install The Browser Extension To Earn Cash Back While You Shop At All Your Favorite Stores) PROGRESSIVE - www.progressive.com (Visit Progressive.com To See If You Could Save On Car Insurance) MOOD - www.mood.com/velvet (20% Off With Code Velvet on Federally Legal THC Shipped Right To Your Door) ADVERTISING INQUIRIES - Please contact David@advertising-execs.com MERCH Available at - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/behind-the-velvet-rope?ref_id=13198 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today I am chatting with Irene,At Wargaming, she came on to the privacy scene,As a lifeguard and barista, her career began,Now she is at Rakuten, based in Japan!

Yes, it's true. Coaches are hired to be fired. But the decisions to fire one guy just because you can't fire 20 sometimes leave us scratching our heads, and that may never be more evident than now, as we find Mathieu Turcotte on the free agent market. He's got a decade-plus experience in the Q, a Coach of the Year trophy with a U18 AAA team, a Telus Cup, and a silver medal from the Canada Winter Games. He also spent last summer coaching some of the best young players in Canada at the World U17s, U18s, and Hlinka-Gretzky Cup, coming home with two gold medals and a bronze. You'll appreciate these insights into coaching the modern athlete, preparing as a modern coach, and remembering some harrowing road trips in the Q. Plus, Turcotte brings us his own unique perspective on the OHL'ers we're watching today, having coached Beckham Edwards, Alessandro Di Iorio, Gavin Betts, and Ethan Belchetz. The OHL podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook and produced in partnership with Rakuten. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sur used to be where you took your mistress but now it is where you meet them. And just like that, the new Vanderpump Rules trailer, and cast, have finally arrived! In other news, on the heels of RHOBH's return in a few weeks, Kyle seems to wanna quit the show all over again. Gia Giudice has taken a hard look at her past actions and has some thoughts on her behaviors. Last, but certainly not least, Producers seem to have done Tamra dirty once again as she prepares for her front and center villain role for RHOC Season 20. @behindvelvetrope @davidyontef BONUS & AD FREE EPISODES Available at - www.patreon.com/behindthevelvetrope  BROUGHT TO YOU BY: RO - ro.co/velvet (For Prescription Compounded GLP-1s and Your Free Insurance Check) THEREALREAL - therealreal.com/velvetrope (Get $25 Off At the Best Place To Shop Authenticated Luxury Bags, Clothing, Watches & more) RAKUTEN - rakuten.co.uk (Go To Rakuten.co.uk, Download The App Or Install The Browser Extension To Earn Cash Back While You Shop At All Your Favorite Stores) PROGRESSIVE - www.progressive.com (Visit Progressive.com To See If You Could Save On Car Insurance) MOOD - www.mood.com/velvet (20% Off With Code Velvet on Federally Legal THC Shipped Right To Your Door) ADVERTISING INQUIRIES - Please contact David@advertising-execs.com MERCH Available at - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/behind-the-velvet-rope?ref_id=13198 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Black Friday isn't just about sales—it's a goldmine for credit card points. Here's how to shop smart, stack rewards, and use tools like Rakuten and Savewise to your full advantage. Shownotes at https://wealthymommd.com/238 Right after I recorded this episode, Bilt just announced their partnership with Rakuten! Meaning you can now earn Bilt points. You'll link the two accounts in your Bilt app. Bilt 2.0 comes out February 2026 so you can no longer apply for the Bilt card until then.

With all the rumors surfacing that the future of RHONJ will be announced next week at BravoCon, one RHONJ Housewife seemingly has come forward to announce that she was fired with mixed messages, regret and a whole lot more. However, all is not as it seems!  Andy Cohen continues to spill the tea, discuss what saved his life and what he himself dislikes so intensely about the RHONJ franchise. Last, but not least, piping hot tea continues to flow from behind the scenes of Next Gen filming with all sorts of crazy names - Brooke Shields we are taking to you - being attached to next season and cast mate returns who were counted out way too soon. @behindvelvetrope @davidyontef BONUS & AD FREE EPISODES Available at - www.patreon.com/behindthevelvetrope  BROUGHT TO YOU BY: RO - ro.co/velvet (For Prescription Compounded GLP-1s and Your Free Insurance Check) THEREALREAL - therealreal.com/velvetrope (Get $25 Off At the Best Place To Shop Authenticated Luxury Bags, Clothing, Watches & more) RAKUTEN - rakuten.co.uk (Go To Rakuten.co.uk, Download The App Or Install The Browser Extension To Earn Cash Back While You Shop At All Your Favorite Stores) MOOD - www.mood.com/velvet (20% Off With Code Velvet on Federally Legal THC Shipped Right To Your Door) PROGRESSIVE - www.progressive.com (Visit Progressive.com To See If You Could Save On Car Insurance) ADVERTISING INQUIRIES - Please contact David@advertising-execs.com MERCH Available at - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/behind-the-velvet-rope?ref_id=13198 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the heels of tomorrow night's RHOC reunion, fans have gone to war over last week's explosive finale. Team Gretchen or Team Tamra has been the question on every Bravoholic's mind the last few days. Today, we get to the bottom of the many unanswered questions that are still lingering: who is lying, just who is the mystery voice on the other end of the phone, which other cast member is high involved who no one suspects. Gretchen, Tamra, the cast and fans have all had a lot to say about this over the past few days and today it is time to answer questions and make sense of it all! @behindvelvetrope @davidyontef BONUS & AD FREE EPISODES Available at - www.patreon.com/behindthevelvetrope  BROUGHT TO YOU BY: RO - ro.co/velvet (For Prescription Compounded GLP-1s and Your Free Insurance Check) THEREALREAL - therealreal.com/velvetrope (Get $25 Off At the Best Place To Shop Authenticated Luxury Bags, Clothing, Watches & more) RAKUTEN - rakuten.co.uk (Go To Rakuten.co.uk, Download The App Or Install The Browser Extension To Earn Cash Back While You Shop At All Your Favorite Stores) MOOD - www.mood.com/velvet (20% Off With Code Velvet on Federally Legal THC Shipped Right To Your Door) PROGRESSIVE - www.progressive.com (Visit Progressive.com To See If You Could Save On Car Insurance) ADVERTISING INQUIRIES - Please contact David@advertising-execs.com MERCH Available at - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/behind-the-velvet-rope?ref_id=13198 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

這裡是樂天桃猿球迷向的非官方Podcast，請善用時間標記選擇想聽的話題。 ++++++ ** 『永豐銀行合作推廣』** 永豐SPORT卡是一張用汗水賺回饋的信用卡，只要每月加入永豐銀行的“汗水不白流”APP，參加【支持運動Podcast】揪團活動，達成app裡設計的運動目標，同時當月刷永豐SPORT卡，永豐銀行就會幫你抖內大叔野球543，抖內金額是每個卡戶刷卡消費的1%，或是一個人最多上限50元/月，再加上卡片本身是有最高6%回饋，就算運動沒達標，仍然有不錯的回饋讓大家來參考。支持永豐sport卡，支持大叔野球543，我們每年都會提撥固定比例跟你贊助基層棒球。 最後還是要謹慎理財，信用至上 申辦SPORT卡：https://mma.tw/O03BB ** ++++++** ** 留言回覆 (02:42)** ** 籃籃和智平的喊話 (26:11)** ++++++ ** 11/3 黃子鵬提FA (31:32)** ** 沈鈺傑的調職和二軍宿舍的爭議 (33:46)** ++++++ ** 封王遊行心得 (1:15:25)** --- 本獨立單元是針對樂天桃猿的各種動態以球迷視角製作的節目；主要的內容除了賽事回顧，還有聊聊其他球場內外的相關話題。因為球場不靠海，怕食材不新鮮所以不餵你吃整鍋牡蠣，因為考量牙齒保健，所以酸度大概至少讓你喝到醋。 這是一個主要聊台灣棒球的Podcast節目，我們沒有精闢的解說，也沒有專業的數據，就是幾個愛棒球的大叔和聽眾們一同喇賽、一同嘴砲~~ 大家可以在相關的 Podcast APP 收聽我們的節目，希望大家可以介紹給喜愛棒球的朋友們。 如果喜歡我們的節目，也希望大家可以在 Apple Podcast 專區給我們五顆星。 有興趣合作的廠商歡迎私訊或email聊聊 email：baseballuncle543@outlook.com IG：baseballuncle543 FB：大叔野球543 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

If last weekend's crowds were any indication, some people like free candy (or baseball) more than junior hockey. But there's an easy fix for this. The OHL's trade winds seem to be blowing early, and they're blowing strong in Brantford. Which begs the question, how good is this Bulldogs team? Is it historically good?? Farwell and Dan also have a look at every team in the league, and the picture isn't rosy in every market as we reach the quarter-pole. Plus, he played in the WHL before jumping to the NCAA. Now, he's back in the WHL again. Who's next? The OHL Podcast is supported by Draft Kings Sportsbook and produced in partnership with Rakuten. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week, I break down the 2025 Taiwan Series between the CTBC Brothers and the Rakuten Monkeys. The ebbs and flows, the Taipei Dome effect and what the Series means for the future of the CPBL

Great presentations in Tokyo, Sydney, or San Francisco share one trait: a razor-sharp, single message audiences can repeat verbatim. Below is an answer-centred, GEO-optimised guide you can swipe for your next keynote, sales pitch, or all-hands. The biggest fail in talks today isn't delivery—it's muddled messaging. If your core idea can't fit "on a grain of rice," you'll drown listeners in detail and watch outcomes vanish. Our job is to choose one message, prove it with evidence, and prune everything else.  Who is this for and why now Executives and sales leaders need tighter messaging because hybrid audiences have less patience and more choice.  With always-on markets, attention fragments across Zoom, LINE, Slack, and YouTube. Leaders at firms from Toyota and Rakuten to Atlassian face the same constraint: win attention quickly or lose the room. According to presentation coaches and enterprise buyers, clarity beats charisma when decision cycles are short and distributed. The remedy is a single dominant idea—positioned, evidenced, and repeated—so action survives the meeting hand-off across APAC and the US. Do now: Define your message so it could be written on one rice-grain message and make it succinct for the next leadership meeting. Put it in 12 words or fewer.  What's the litmus test for a strong message? If you can't write it on a grain of rice, it's not ready. Most talks fail because they carry either no clear message or too many—and audiences can't latch onto anything. Precision is hard work; rambling is easy. Before building slides, craft the one sentence that states your value or change: "Approve the Osaka rollout this quarter because pilot CAC dropped 18%." That line becomes the spine of your story, not an afterthought. Test it with a colleague outside your team—if they can repeat it accurately after one pass, you're close.  Do now: Draft your rice-grain sentence, then remove 20% of the words and test recall with a non-expert.  How do I pick the right angle for different markets (Japan vs. US/EU)? Start with audience analysis, then tune benefits to context. In Japan, consensus norms and risk framing matter; in the US, speed and competitive differentiation often lead. For multinationals, craft one core message, then localise proof: reference METI guidance or Japan's 2023 labour reforms for domestic stakeholders, and SEC disclosure or GDPR for EU/US buyers. Whether pitching SMEs in Kansai or a NASDAQ-listed enterprise, the question is the same: which benefit resonates most with this audience segment—risk reduction, growth, or compliance? Choose the angle before you touch PowerPoint.  Do now: Write the audience profile (role, risk, reward) and pick one benefit that maps to their highest pain this quarter.  How do titles and promotion affect turnout in 2025? Titles are mini-messages—bad ones halve your attendance. Hybrid events live or die on the email subject line and LinkedIn card. If the title doesn't telegraph the single benefit, you burn pipeline. Compare "Customer Success in 2025" with "Cut Churn 12%: A Playbook from APAC SaaS Renewals." The second mirrors your rice-grain message and triggers self-selection. Leaders frequently blame marketing or timing, when the real culprit is a fuzzy message baked into the title.  Do now: Rewrite your next talk title to include the outcome + timeframe + audience (e.g., "Win Enterprise Renewals in H1 FY2026").  What evidence earns trust in the "Era of Cynicism"? Claims need hard evidence—numbers, names, and cases—not opinions. Treat your talk like a thesis: central proposition up top, then chapters of proof (benchmarks, case studies, pilot metrics, third-party research). Executives will discount adjectives but accept specifics: "Rakuten deployment reduced onboarding from 21 to 14 days" beats "faster onboarding." B2B, consumer, and public-sector audiences vary, but all reward verifiable sources and clear cause-and-effect. Stack your proof in three buckets: data (metrics), authority (laws, frameworks), and example (case).  Do now: Build a 3×3 proof grid (Data/Authority/Example × Market/Function/Timeframe) and attach each item to your single message.  Why do speakers drown talks with "too many benefits," and how do I stop? More benefits dilute impact; pick the strongest and double-down. The "Magic Formula"—context → data → proof → call to action → benefit—works, but presenters keep adding benefits until the original one blurs. In a distracted, mobile-first audience, every extra tangent taxes working memory. Strip supporting points that don't directly prove your main claim. Keep sub-messages subordinate; if they start competing, they're out. In startups and conglomerates alike, restraint reads as confidence.  Do now: Highlight the single, most powerful benefit in your deck; delete lesser benefits that don't strengthen it.  What's the fastest way to improve clarity before delivery? Prune 10% of content—even if it hurts. We're slide hoarders: see a cool graphic, add it; remember a side story, add it. The fix is a hard 10% cut, which forces prioritisation and reveals the true spine of the message. This discipline improves absorption for time-poor executives and buyers across APAC, Europe, and North America. If a slide doesn't prove the rice-grain line, it goes. Quality over quantity wins adoption.  Do now: Run a "10% reduction pass" and read your talk aloud; if the message lands faster, lock the cut list.  Conclusion & Next Steps One message. Fit for audience. Proven with evidence. Ruthlessly pruned. That's how ideas travel from your mouth to their Monday priorities—across languages, time zones, and business cycles.  Next steps for leaders/executives: Write your rice-grain line and title variant. Build a 3×3 proof grid and assign owners to collect evidence by Friday. Cut 10% and rehearse with a cross-functional listener. Track outcomes: decisions taken, next-step commitments, or pipeline created. FAQs What's a "rice-grain" message? It's your core point compressed into ≤12 words—easy to repeat and hard to forget.  How many benefits should I present? One main benefit; others become proof points or get cut.  How much should I cut before delivery? Remove at least 10% to improve clarity and retention.  Author Dr. Greg Story, Ph.D. in Japanese Decision-Making, is President of Dale Carnegie Tokyo Training and Adjunct Professor at Griffith University. He is a two-time winner of the Dale Carnegie "One Carnegie Award" (2018, 2021) and recipient of the Griffith University Business School Outstanding Alumnus Award (2012). As a Dale Carnegie Master Trainer, Greg delivers globally across leadership, communication, sales, and presentation programs. He is the author of Japan Business Mastery, Japan Sales Mastery, Japan Presentations Mastery, Japan Leadership Mastery, and How to Stop Wasting Money on Training; Japanese editions include ザ営業 and プレゼンの達人. Greg also publishes daily business insights on LinkedIn/X/Facebook and hosts multiple weekly podcasts and YouTube shows including The Cutting Edge Japan Business Show and Japan Business Mastery. 

Candiace Dillard Bassett steps Behind The Rope. Candiace is here to, as we like to say, mention it all. Candiace breaks down her journey on RHOP - the highs and lows, good times, drama and more. Candiace talks cast mates Wendy, Robin, Gizelle, Ashley and The Grand Dame. Candiace also chats about her past with Monique Samuels - both on and off air, husband Chris Bassett, other franchises'  Housewives, the lessons learned from Lisa Rinna and oh so very much more.  Part II starts now! @candeegal09 @behindvelvetrope @davidyontef BONUS & AD FREE EPISODES Available at - www.patreon.com/behindthevelvetrope  BROUGHT TO YOU BY: THEREALREAL - therealreal.com/velvetrope (Get $25 Off At the Best Place To Shop Authenticated Luxury Bags, Clothing, Watches & more) RAKUTEN - rakuten.com (Get the Rakuten App NOW and Join the 17 Million Members Who Are Already Saving!  Your Cash Back really adds up!) MOOD - www.mood.com/velvet (20% Off With Code Velvet on Federally Legal THC Shipped Right To Your Door) PROGRESSIVE - www.progressive.com (Visit Progressive.com To See If You Could Save On Car Insurance) ADVERTISING INQUIRIES - Please contact David@advertising-execs.com MERCH Available at - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/behind-the-velvet-rope?ref_id=13198 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How to reshape culture in Japan without breaking what already works.  What is the first question leaders should ask when inheriting a Japanese workplace? Start by asking better questions, not hunting faster answers. Before imposing a global "fix," map what already works in the Japan business and why. In post-pandemic 2025, multinationals from Toyota to Rakuten show that culture is a system of trade-offs—language, seniority, risk appetite, client expectations—not a slogan. Western playbooks prize decisive answers; Japan prizes deciding the right questions. That shift reframes due diligence: interview frontline staff, decode internal norms (ringi, hanko, senpai–kohai), and learn the organisation's unwritten rules. Only then can you see where practices are enabling quality, safety, speed, or reputation—and where they're blocking growth. Do now: List 10 things that work in Japan operations and why they work; don't change any of them yet. Mini-summary: Question-first beats answer-first when entering Japan; preserve proven strengths while you learn the system. Why do "HQ transplants" often fail in Japan? Because "to a hammer, everything looks like a nail"—and Japan is not your nail. Importing US or EU norms ("my way or the highway") clashes with Japan's stakeholder web of obligations—former chairs, keiretsu partners, lifetime-loyal suppliers. Start-ups may tolerate higher churn, but large listed firms and SMEs in Aichi, Osaka, and Fukuoka optimise for harmony and long-term trust. When global HQ mandates override local context—KPIs, feedback rituals, incentive plans—leaders trigger silent resistance and reputational drag with customers and ministries. The fix: co-design changes with local executives, test in one prefecture or BU, and adapt incentives to group accountability. Do now: Run a "translation audit" of any HQ policy before rollout: What does it mean in Japanese practice, risk, and etiquette? Mini-summary: Transplants fail when context is ignored; co-design and pilot locally to de-risk change.  How are major decisions really made—meeting room or before the meeting? Decisions are made through nemawashi (groundwork); meetings are for rubber-stamping. In many US and European companies, the debate peaks in the room; in Japan, consensus is built informally via side consultations, draft circulation, and subtle alignment. A head nod in the meeting may mean "I hear you," not "I commit." Skip nemawashi and your initiative stalls. Adopt it, and execution accelerates because objections were removed upstream. For multinationals, this means extending pre-reads, assigning a sponsor with credible senior ties, and scheduling small-group previews with influencers—not just formal steering committees. Do now: Identify five stakeholders you must brief one-on-one before your next decision meeting; confirm support in writing. Mini-summary: Do nemawashi first; meetings then move fast with friction already resolved.  Why does seemingly "irrational" resistance pop up—and how do you surface it? Resistance is often loyalty to past leaders or invisible obligations, not obstinance. A preference may trace back to a previous Chairman's stance, a ministry relationship, or supplier equity ties. In APAC conglomerates, these "silken tethers" can't be seen on an org chart. Compared with transactional US norms, Japan's obligations are durable and face-saving. Leaders need a "terrain map": who owes whom, for what, and on what timeline. Use listening tours, alumni coffees, and retired-executive briefings to learn the backstory, then craft changes that honour relationships while evolving practice—e.g., grandfather legacy terms with sunset clauses. Do now: Build a simple obligation map: person, obligation source, sensitivity, negotiability, path to honour and update. Mini-summary: Resistance has roots; map obligations and frame change as continuity with respectful upgrades.  Is Japan slow to decide—or fast to execute? Japan is slow to decide but fast to execute once aligned. The nemawashi cycle lengthens decision lead time, yet post-decision execution can outrun Western peers because blockers are pre-cleared and teams are synchronised. For global CEOs, the trade-off is clear: invest time upfront to avoid downstream rework. Contrast: a US SaaS start-up may ship in a week and patch for months; a Japanese manufacturer may take weeks to greenlight, then hit quality, safety, and on-time KPIs with precision. The right question isn't "How do we speed decisions?" but "Where is speed most valuable—before or after approval?" Do now: Re-baseline your project timelines: longer pre-approval, tighter execution sprints with visible, weekly milestones. Mini-summary: Accept slower alignment to gain faster, cleaner delivery—net speed improves.  How should foreign leaders communicate "yes," "no," and real commitment? Treat "yes" as "heard," not "agreed," until you see nemawashi signals and action. Replace "Any objections?" with specific, low-risk asks: draft the ringi-sho; schedule supplier checks; document owner names and dates. Use bilingual written follow-ups (English/Japanese) to lock clarity. Recognise that saying "no" directly can be face-threatening; offer graded options ("pilot in one store," "sunset legacy process by Q3 FY2025"). Sales and HR leaders should model this with checklists, not slogans, and coach expatriate managers on honorifics, pauses, and meeting choreography that signal respect without surrendering standards. Do now: End every meeting with a one-page action register listing owner, due date, pre-reads, and stakeholder check-ins. Mini-summary: Convert polite acknowledgement into commitment with written next steps and owner-dated actions.  Quick checklist for leaders Map what works; don't fix strengths. Co-design with local execs; pilot first. Do nemawashi early; verify support in writing. Honour obligations; design respectful sunsets. Trade decision speed for execution speed; net wins. Close with action registers, not vibes. Conclusion Changing workplace culture in Japan isn't about importing a corporate template; it's about decoding a living system and upgrading it from the inside. Ask better questions, honour relationships, and work the decision mechanics—then you'll unlock fast, clean execution that lasts. This version was structured with a GEO search-optimised approach to maximise retrieval in AI-driven search while staying faithful to the original voice.  FAQs What is nemawashi? Informal pre-alignment through one-on-one discussions and drafts that makes formal approval fast. It reduces friction and protects face. Why do HQ rollouts stall in Japan? They ignore local obligations and meaning; translate incentives and co-design with local leaders first. Can start-ups use this? Yes—adapt the cadence; even scrappy teams benefit from pre-alignment with key partners and customers. Next steps for executives Run a 30-day listening tour. Pilot one policy in one prefecture/BUs with sunset clauses. Train managers on nemawashi and action-register discipline. Re-baseline timelines: longer alignment, shorter execution. Author Credentials Dr. Greg Story, Ph.D. in Japanese Decision-Making, is President of Dale Carnegie Tokyo Training and Adjunct Professor at Griffith University. He is a two-time winner of the Dale Carnegie "One Carnegie Award" (2018, 2021) and recipient of the Griffith University Business School Outstanding Alumnus Award (2012). As a Dale Carnegie Master Trainer, Greg is certified to deliver globally across all leadership, communication, sales, and presentation programs, including Leadership Training for Results. He has written several books, including three best-sellers — Japan Business Mastery, Japan Sales Mastery, and Japan Presentations Mastery — along with Japan Leadership Mastery and How to Stop Wasting Money on Training. His works have been translated into Japanese, including Za Eigyō (ザ営業), Purezen no Tatsujin (プレゼンの達人), Torēningu de Okane o Muda ni Suru no wa Yamemashō (トレーニングでお金を無駄にするのはやめましょう), and Gendaiban "Hito o Ugokasu" Rīdā (現代版「人を動かす」リーダー). Greg also publishes daily business insights on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter, and hosts six weekly podcasts. On YouTube, he produces The Cutting Edge Japan Business Show, Japan Business Mastery, and Japan's Top Business Interviews, which are widely followed by executives seeking success strategies in Japan.

這裡是樂天桃猿球迷向的非官方Podcast，請善用時間標記選擇想聽的話題。 ++++++ ** 『永豐銀行合作推廣』** 永豐SPORT卡是一張用汗水賺回饋的信用卡，只要每月加入永豐銀行的“汗水不白流”APP，參加【支持運動Podcast】揪團活動，達成app裡設計的運動目標，同時當月刷永豐SPORT卡，永豐銀行就會幫你抖內大叔野球543，抖內金額是每個卡戶刷卡消費的1%，或是一個人最多上限50元/月，再加上卡片本身是有最高6%回饋，就算運動沒達標，仍然有不錯的回饋讓大家來參考。支持永豐sport卡，支持大叔野球543，我們每年都會提撥固定比例跟你贊助基層棒球。 最後還是要謹慎理財，信用至上 申辦SPORT卡：https://mma.tw/O03BB ** ++++++** ** 留言回覆 (02:29)** ** G4延賽決策 (04:36)** ** -為什麼前四戰不要在台北洞打？** ** -為什麼不能先打G5？** ** -為什麼G4不能改場地，如果要改要如何做？** ** -對哪支球隊更有利？** ** ++++++** ** 上週比賽回顧 (1:01:02)** ** 戰績、團隊數據及個人成績 (1:12:29)** ** ++++++** ** G3及Ｇ4進場心得 (1:14:37)** --- 本獨立單元是針對樂天桃猿的各種動態以球迷視角製作的節目；主要的內容除了賽事回顧，還有聊聊其他球場內外的相關話題。因為球場不靠海，怕食材不新鮮所以不餵你吃整鍋牡蠣，因為考量牙齒保健，所以酸度大概至少讓你喝到醋。 這是一個主要聊台灣棒球的Podcast節目，我們沒有精闢的解說，也沒有專業的數據，就是幾個愛棒球的大叔和聽眾們一同喇賽、一同嘴砲~~ 大家可以在相關的 Podcast APP 收聽我們的節目，希望大家可以介紹給喜愛棒球的朋友們。 如果喜歡我們的節目，也希望大家可以在 Apple Podcast 專區給我們五顆星。 有興趣合作的廠商歡迎私訊或email聊聊 email：baseballuncle543@outlook.com IG：baseballuncle543 FB：大叔野球543 －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 開飯、真珠及饗泰多聯手與廚神小當家強檔聯名，小當家劉昴星的大魔術熊貓豆腐、七星刀雷恩的頂級炸蟹斗及料理仙女阿貝師傅的貝氏糖醋櫻桃肉，夢幻料理等你來享用！即日起來店點購聯名料理，參加夢幻料理蒐集任務將品牌餐券帶回家！ https://sofm.pse.is/8a5zww -- 永續決策士有多元的系列節目，帶你了解從企業到國際間的永續大小事！這是一個專業又輕鬆的永續頻道，將邀請相關領域的企業家與專家來分享自身經驗及知識，對ESG、永續有興趣的朋友不能錯過！​ 快點擊下方各大平台收聽連結聆聽⬇️​ https://sofm.pse.is/8a5zwx -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Short intro: Forgetting names kills first impressions. The good news: a few simple, repeatable techniques can make you memorable and help you recall others—consistently, even in noisy, post-pandemic mixers and business events.  Is there a simple way to say my name so people actually remember it? Yes: use “Pause, Part, Punch.” Pause before you speak, insert a brief “part” between your first and last name, then punch (emphasise) your surname. The pause stops the mental scroll, the parting creates a clean boundary (helpful in loud rooms or across accents), and the punch leaves a sticky final note—useful in Japan, the US, and Europe where surnames often carry professional identity. Executives at multinationals and SMEs alike can coach teams to deploy this consistently at trade shows, chambers of commerce events, and alumni nights. Over time, your name becomes an asset—clear, repeatable, and easy to introduce.  Do now: Practise: “Hello, my name is… (pause) …Keiko… (part)…TANAKA.” Record it, tweak cadence, rehearse daily.  What's the fastest framework to remember someone else's name on the spot? Start with LIRA: Look & Listen, Impression, Repetition, Association. First, give full visual and auditory attention—phones down, eyes up. Next, form a quick impression (“Mr Tall Suzuki with heavy rims”) to create a mental hook. Then repeat their name naturally in conversation (not creepily), and finish with an association—link to a character, place, or attribute you won't forget (e.g., Suzuki as “Japan's Clark Kent”). Compared with generic “memory palace” tricks, LIRA is lighter, faster, and better for high-tempo events as of 2025, across industries from B2B SaaS to professional services.  Do now: Use their name once early, once mid-chat, once when you part: “Thanks, Suzuki-san—great insight on logistics.”  How do I create vivid mental images that actually stick? Use PACE: Person, Action, Colour, Exaggeration. Picture the person like a movie poster with their name. Add an action tied to meaning or sound (Asakawa = fast-running stream). Layer in a colour cue (Mr Black, Ms White). Then exaggerate—big cape, soaring over Otemachi, a giant sign reading “SUZUKI.” This amps up memorability under cognitive load and cross-language settings (useful in Japan–APAC events where name sounds may be unfamiliar to English speakers). Compared with straight repetition, PACE exploits how our brains favour images and unusual scenes for recall.  Do now: On first hearing the name, take one second to sketch a wild, colourful micro-scene in your head—then lock it with a quick repeat.  Are there smart shortcuts for linking names to context? Yes—try BRAMMS: Business, Rhyme, Appearance, Meaning, Mind Picture, Similar Name. Tie the name to their business (Tokoro in real estate). Use a rhyme (“straight-back Tanaka”). Note a standout appearance cue (Onaka with a big belly). Leverage the meaning (Takai = tall; Minami = south). Make a mind picture (Abe as Abe Lincoln). Or a similar name pun (Kawai ~ kawaii). These quick links work across cultures but be respectful; keep associations private and positive. In cross-border teams (Tokyo vs. Sydney vs. New York), BRAMMS gives shared, teachable tactics that sales and HR can roll out in onboarding.  Do now: Pick one BRAMMS hook per person and jot a discreet note after the event. Consistency beats cleverness.  How do I avoid sounding weird when I use someone's name? Space it out and keep it situational. Use the name once as confirmation (“Did I hear Asakawa correctly?”), once to reinforce rapport (“Asakawa-san, that supply-chain example—brilliant”), and once to close (“Thanks, Asakawa-san, let's reconnect next week”). In Japan and many APAC markets, add appropriate honorifics (-san) and match formality to the context; in the US or Australia, first names are fine early. The goal is natural cadence, not performance. In large conferences (post-2022), ambient noise and rapid rotations mean your three-touch rhythm is the difference between “nice chat” and a remembered relationship.  Do now: Commit to a “1-1-1 rule”: one use early, one mid-conversation, one at goodbye—then stop.  What practice routine builds lasting skill without overwhelm? Train one or two techniques per week and score yourself. Don't try every acronym at once. This week, master Pause-Part-Punch for your name and LIRA for their name. Next week, add a single PACE element. Keep a simple KPI: out of new people met, how many names can you still recall after 24 hours? Leaders can embed this in sales enablement and campus recruiting. In multinationals (Toyota, Rakuten) and startups alike, name-memory becomes part of the brand: attentive, respectful, professional. Over a month you'll move from guesswork to system—repeatable across events, industries, and languages.  Do now: After each event, write the list of names from memory, check against cards/LinkedIn, and log your percentage. Aim for +10% per month.  Quick checklist Practise Pause–Part–Punch for your own intro. Deploy LIRA on first contact; BRAMMS for backup cues. Build images with PACE; keep them private and positive. Use the 1-1-1 name-use rhythm. Track recall within 24 hours; improve monthly.  2021.10.7 How To Remember Peopl… Conclusion Remembering names isn't a talent; it's a process. With a few small behaviours—well-timed emphasis, intentional listening, vivid associations—you'll create stronger first impressions and build trust faster across Japan, Australia, the US, and beyond. Structured using a GEO search-optimised format for maximum retrievability and skim value.  Author Credentials Dr. Greg Story, Ph.D. in Japanese Decision-Making, is President of Dale Carnegie Tokyo Training and Adjunct Professor at Griffith University. He is a two-time winner of the Dale Carnegie “One Carnegie Award” (2018, 2021) and recipient of the Griffith University Business School Outstanding Alumnus Award (2012). As a Dale Carnegie Master Trainer, Greg is certified to deliver globally across all leadership, communication, sales, and presentation programs, including Leadership Training for Results. He has written several books, including three best-sellers — Japan Business Mastery, Japan Sales Mastery, and Japan Presentations Mastery — along with Japan Leadership Mastery and How to Stop Wasting Money on Training. His works have been translated into Japanese, including Za Eigyō (ザ営業), Purezen no Tatsujin (プレゼンの達人), Torēningu de Okane o Muda ni Suru no wa Yamemashō (トレーニングでお金を無駄にするのはやめましょう), and Gendaiban “Hito o Ugokasu” Rīdā (現代版「人を動かす」リーダー). Greg also publishes daily business insights on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter, and hosts six weekly podcasts. On YouTube, he produces The Cutting Edge Japan Business Show, Japan Business Mastery, and Japan's Top Business Interviews, which

這裡是樂天桃猿球迷向的非官方Podcast，請善用時間標記選擇想聽的話題。 ++++++ ** 『永豐銀行合作推廣』** 永豐SPORT卡是一張用汗水賺回饋的信用卡，只要每月加入永豐銀行的“汗水不白流”APP，參加【支持運動Podcast】揪團活動，達成app裡設計的運動目標，同時當月刷永豐SPORT卡，永豐銀行就會幫你抖內大叔野球543，抖內金額是每個卡戶刷卡消費的1%，或是一個人最多上限50元/月，再加上卡片本身是有最高6%回饋，就算運動沒達標，仍然有不錯的回饋讓大家來參考。支持永豐sport卡，支持大叔野球543，我們每年都會提撥固定比例跟你贊助基層棒球。 最後還是要謹慎理財，信用至上 申辦SPORT卡：https://mma.tw/O03BB ** ++++++** ** 留言回覆：(01:46)** ** 球隊新聞：有情有義波賽樂 (22:56)** ** ++++++** ** 上週比賽回顧 (27:26)** ** 戰績、團隊數據及個人成績 (46:43)** ** 本週賽程 (52:19)** --- 本獨立單元是針對樂天桃猿的各種動態以球迷視角製作的節目；主要的內容除了賽事回顧，還有聊聊其他球場內外的相關話題。因為球場不靠海，怕食材不新鮮所以不餵你吃整鍋牡蠣，因為考量牙齒保健，所以酸度大概至少讓你喝到醋。 這是一個主要聊台灣棒球的Podcast節目，我們沒有精闢的解說，也沒有專業的數據，就是幾個愛棒球的大叔和聽眾們一同喇賽、一同嘴砲~~ 大家可以在相關的 Podcast APP 收聽我們的節目，希望大家可以介紹給喜愛棒球的朋友們。 如果喜歡我們的節目，也希望大家可以在 Apple Podcast 專區給我們五顆星。 有興趣合作的廠商歡迎私訊或email聊聊 email：baseballuncle543@outlook.com IG：baseballuncle543 FB：大叔野球543 －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 開飯、真珠及饗泰多聯手與廚神小當家強檔聯名，小當家劉昴星的大魔術熊貓豆腐、七星刀雷恩的頂級炸蟹斗及料理仙女阿貝師傅的貝氏糖醋櫻桃肉，夢幻料理等你來享用！即日起來店點購聯名料理，參加夢幻料理蒐集任務將品牌餐券帶回家！ https://sofm.pse.is/8a2edr -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Teresa Giudice now says that not only has she called The Gorgas, which we previously discussed, but that she will be meeting up with them to reconcile and erase the past two decades that have infiltrated their lives, and ours, both on and off the RHONJ screen. Speaking of RHONJ, the new cast announcement is expected in 3,2,1… Speaking of Joe and Mel, we explain exactly why they would now be open to such a reconciliation. All is definitely not as it seems. Heather McDonald scolds Meredith Marks. Meredith claps back in a feud we sure did not have on our bingo card. Last, but not least, in the trend of home invasions, real and fake - we see you Dr. Wendy, Dolores Catania talks about how scary hers was, blow torch and all. @behindvelvetrope @davidyontef BONUS & AD FREE EPISODES Available at - www.patreon.com/behindthevelvetrope  BROUGHT TO YOU BY: THEREALREAL - therealreal.com/velvetrope (Get $25 Off At the Best Place To Shop Authenticated Luxury Bags, Clothing, Watches & more) RAKUTEN - rakuten.com (Get the Rakuten App NOW and Join the 17 Million Members Who Are Already Saving!  Your Cash Back really adds up!) MOOD - www.mood.com/velvet (20% Off With Code Velvet on Federally Legal THC Shipped Right To Your Door) PROGRESSIVE - www.progressive.com (Visit Progressive.com To See If You Could Save On Car Insurance) ADVERTISING INQUIRIES - Please contact David@advertising-execs.com MERCH Available at - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/behind-the-velvet-rope?ref_id=13198 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a textThe Ben's Big Deal Podcast is for anyone interested in getting a great deal with an airline, hotel or credit card.Ben Komenkul is a points & miles expert and shares the latest offers so that you can take advantage of all the big deals out there and become a points master.In this episode,  Ben discusses -Everything you want to know about the changes coming to the Amex Platinum Card.How to maximize the bonus transfer window to unlock value.Rakuten & Bilt Rewards have partnered.  Now what?You can subscribe to this podcast by searching 'BusinessTravel360' on your favorite podcast player or visiting BusinessTravel360.comThis podcast was created by Ben Komenkul and was edited and distributed by BusinessTravel360.  For more information about Ben's Big Deal visit BensBigDeal.com.Support the show

With less than a month to go, the countdown to BravoCon is heating up and with more panels than almost any other Real Housewife, fans, RHONJ casemates and even Dorinda Medley have spoken out about what this means for Teresa's future on the show and with the network. Jeff Lewis has spoken out about his new Housewife feuds, favs and what to expect from him in the upcoming weeks. After last night's RHOC, with the reunion now filmed, Tamra seems to blame Slade for anything and everything that has gone wrong in her life this season. Guerdy issues a new threat but all is not as it seems. This and so much more as RHOM concludes, RHOSLC reigns supreme and RHOP tries to keep up on air with its biggest scandal ever that just keeps growing off air.  @behindvelvetrope @davidyontef BONUS & AD FREE EPISODES Available at - www.patreon.com/behindthevelvetrope  BROUGHT TO YOU BY: THEREALREAL - therealreal.com/velvetrope (Get $25 Off At the Best Place To Shop Authenticated Luxury Bags, Clothing, Watches & more) RAKUTEN - rakuten.com (Get the Rakuten App NOW and Join the 17 Million Members Who Are Already Saving!  Your Cash Back really adds up!) MOOD - www.mood.com/velvet (20% Off With Code Velvet on Federally Legal THC Shipped Right To Your Door) PROGRESSIVE - www.progressive.com (Visit Progressive.com To See If You Could Save On Car Insurance) ADVERTISING INQUIRIES - Please contact David@advertising-execs.com MERCH Available at - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/behind-the-velvet-rope?ref_id=13198 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 142 of the Award Travel 101 podcast features Angie Sparks joined by guest Carissa Rawson, Director of Travel and Marketing at Rove Miles. The highlight post celebrated member Debbie's generosity in gifting a Napa Wine Train voucher she couldn't use, which another member, Lisa, gave to her father-in-law for his 89th birthday. News included Citi Strata Elite's 100K public offer, elevated cash-back offers on Capital One's Quicksilver and Savor cards, and a potential new partnership allowing Rakuten users to earn Bilt (and thus Hyatt) points. Angie also mentioned the usual round of transfer and purchase bonuses shared via the AwardWallet blog.In the main topic, Carissa discussed Rove Miles, a new flexible travel currency not tied to a credit card, explaining how it works, its benefits compared to traditional booking methods, and how it integrates with loyalty programs when booking hotels. Angie also gave a quick trip update about awaiting P2's decision on whether to include Istanbul on their way to Switzerland, and the episode closed with Carissa's tip of the week about Choice points and a reminder that the long-awaited AT101 merch store is now open.Links to Topics DiscussedSignup for a Rove Miles account (affiliate link)Citi Strata Elite New Public OfferCapital One Increased OffersBilt Rewards - Rakuten PartnershipWhere to Find Us The Award Travel 101 Facebook Community. To book time with our team, check out Award Travel 1-on-1. You can also email us at 101@award.travel Buy your Award Travel 101 Merch here Reserve tickets to our Spring 2026 Meetup in Phoenix now. award.travel/phx2026 Our partner CardPointers helps us get the most from our cards. Signup today at https://cardpointers.com/at101 for a 30% discount on annual and lifetime subscriptions! Lastly, we appreciate your support of the AT101 Podcast/Community when you signup for your next card! Technical note: Some user experience difficulty streaming the podcast while connected to a VPN. If you have difficulty, disconnect from your VPN.

With all that Wendy Osefo has lost in the past few days - dignity, Wife Swap, her position at Wesleyan, it is only a matter of days before she is asked to not attend, or, removes herself from next month's BravoCon. In other Wendy news, The RHOP cast seems to be enjoying her downfall with no real fan in sight except one Miss Katie Rost. Rumors, and nastiness, surface that the RHOC reunion did not exactly go as Tamra had planned. Vicki Gunvalson talks a bunch of stuff and nonsense in the hopes of an RHOC return. Robyn and Gizelle talk smack but prepare to face off with Eminem sooner than later. Last, but certainly not least, Bethenny Frankel dives deep into the world of Only Fans. @behindvelvetrope @davidyontef BONUS & AD FREE EPISODES Available at - www.patreon.com/behindthevelvetrope  BROUGHT TO YOU BY: THEREALREAL - therealreal.com/velvetrope (Get $25 Off At the Best Place To Shop Authenticated Luxury Bags, Clothing, Watches & more) RAKUTEN - rakuten.com (Get the Rakuten App NOW and Join the 17 Million Members Who Are Already Saving!  Your Cash Back really adds up!) MOOD - www.mood.com/velvet (20% Off With Code Velvet on Federally Legal THC Shipped Right To Your Door) PROGRESSIVE - www.progressive.com (Visit Progressive.com To See If You Could Save On Car Insurance) ADVERTISING INQUIRIES - Please contact David@advertising-execs.com MERCH Available at - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/behind-the-velvet-rope?ref_id=13198 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every day, every hour new facts emerge in the Wendy Osefo scam that rocked the Bravo's world last week. Andy Cohen has finally broken his silence with a few words of advice for Miss Osefo.  From the many missteps that The Osefos made to how we got here, we discuss it all. In other news, Bravo hires security for Melissa and Joe Gorga but all is not as it seems.  Last, but not least, in light of MVP Adriana de Moura's recent revelations of Haitian Morticians, hotel rooms and coffee makers, tennis legend Martina Navratilova apparently wants a divorce from Julia Lemigova. Can ya blame her? @behindvelvetrope @davidyontef BONUS & AD FREE EPISODES Available at - www.patreon.com/behindthevelvetrope  BROUGHT TO YOU BY: THEREALREAL - therealreal.com/velvetrope (Get $25 Off At the Best Place To Shop Authenticated Luxury Bags, Clothing, Watches & more) RAKUTEN - rakuten.com (Get the Rakuten App NOW and Join the 17 Million Members Who Are Already Saving!  Your Cash Back really adds up!) MOOD - www.mood.com/velvet (20% Off With Code Velvet on Federally Legal THC Shipped Right To Your Door) PROGRESSIVE - www.progressive.com (Visit Progressive.com To See If You Could Save On Car Insurance) ADVERTISING INQUIRIES - Please contact David@advertising-execs.com MERCH Available at - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/behind-the-velvet-rope?ref_id=13198 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we discuss a series of "intellectual crimes" in which the stolen objects were more valuable for their history and status than for their resale price.  And stick around for an artsy "Last Thing Before We Go". Thank you to this week's sponsors! Help your liver and save 25% on your first month of subscription by going to dosedaily.co/MOMS or entering MOMS at checkout. Get organized now, with Skylight! Right now, Skylight is offering our listeners $30 off their 15-inch Calendars by going to SkylightCal.com/MOMS. Download the free Rakuten App or go to Rakuten.com to start saving today.  And right now, IQBAR is offering our special podcast listeners twenty percent off all IQBAR products—including the sampler pack—plus FREE shipping. To get your 20% text MOMS to 64000.  Message and data rates may apply. See terms for details. The Boston Public Library's "Lost" Art: We dive into the bizarre case of two priceless artworks—an Albrecht Dürer engraving and a Rembrandt van Rijn etching—that went missing from one of the country's most prestigious libraries. The disappearance caused a media uproar and led to the resignation of the library's president . But in a twist, the art was never stolen; it was just in the wrong spot for an entire year.  The Man Who Loved Books Too Much: We explore the story of John Charles Gilkey, a man driven by intellectual vanity who used stolen credit card numbers to amass a collection of rare books worth over $200,000. Gilkey wasn't in it for the money; he simply wanted to appear to be a sophisticated intellectual . His obsessive "bibliokleptomania" forced the rare book community to tighten security and share information on thefts.  The Notorious Map Thief: Next, we cover Edward Forbes Smiley III, a charming and respected rare map dealer whose financial troubles led him to a life of crime. Using an X-Acto blade, he would carefully slice rare maps out of centuries-old atlases from institutions like Yale and Harvard. We reveal how a single misplaced blade led to his downfall, exposing his theft of nearly 100 maps . The Notorious Map Thief: Next, we cover Edward Forbes Smiley III, a charming and respected rare map dealer whose financial troubles led him to a life of crime. Using an X-Acto blade, he would carefully slice rare maps out of centuries-old atlases from institutions like Yale and Harvard. We reveal how a single misplaced blade led to his downfall, exposing his theft of nearly 100 maps. Check-out bonus episodes up on Spotify and Apple podcast now! Get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus chat episodes, at Patreon.com/momsandmysteriespodcast .    To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/MomsandMysteriesATrueCrimePodcast.    Listen and subscribe to Melissa's other podcast, Criminality!! It's the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: www.pod.link/criminality    Check-out Moms and Mysteries to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more.