Podcasts about relying

In This Episode of Business Lunch: This episode explores the limitations of AI video summarization tools that rely solely on transcripts and introduces a groundbreaking method to give AI 'eyes' to process visual data directly from videos. Discover how combining visual and textual analysis can unlock precise insights from complex content, transforming productivity and data accuracy.Chapters:00:00 The Illusion of AI Video Summarization02:08 Why Claude Can't Watch Videos Natively03:19 Building a Workaround: The Claude Video Skill06:17 Synchronizing Frames and Text for Context07:11 Real-World Test: Comparing Transcript-Only vs Visual-Aided AI09:53 The Power of Visual Data in Financial and Technical Analysis11:20 Risks of Relying on Sanitized Summaries13:15 The Hidden Costs: Token Economy and Processing Limits15:42 Resolution and Sampling Trade-offs in Visual AI16:20 The User Experience: Terminal-Based Video Analysis18:01 Limitations and When to Use This Tool20:12 The Future: AI Perceiving the Entire Visual WorldConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube

“We really wanted to make a game that would encourage creators to make more weird stuff.” Low budgets, tight spaces, and a DIY mentality. As it turns out, indie filmmaking and creating escape rooms have a lot in common. James Hamer-Morton & Charlie Bond of Deadlocked Escape Rooms in Reading, UK, know this better than anyone. They joined us on REPOD to talk about creating their quirky, puzzle-driven games. James and Charlie actually met as actors on the set of a film, and they've been partners in life and business ever since. David even wrote a post about one of their projects, Echoes of Darkness: A Star Wars Fan Film . These origins really honed their “do-it-yourself” ethos. As Charlie puts it, “It originally stems from a lack of funds. But also it's enjoyable to do it yourself, and to learn a new skill in the process.” Where Deadlocked really shines though is in their creativity. Their games have quirky mechanics and stories. They've employed clever tricks to make the sets feel larger than they are. Relying on quick wits and creativity have allowed Deadlocked to stay nimble. During the pandemic, they created a wonderful virtual game called The Insiders that gave them global recognition in the escape room world. This led to them giving a talk at the very first RECON about Adapting Your Escape Room Business to New Mediums. James and Charlie have spent the better part of a decade building one of the UK's most distinctive escape room companies. Deadlocked is currently ranked the #1 escape room in the UK, and their newest game, The Reading Witch, recently topped the TERPECA rankings for England. One of my favorite stories from this episode is about the time they were playing an escape room and they stopped mid-game to help the owners fix a broken prop. They are two of the most charismatic, creative, and relentlessly hands-on people in the business, and I hope you enjoy listening to this episode as much as we enjoyed recording it.       Episode Sponsors We are immensely grateful to our sponsors this season: REA Patreon Backers, PG's Playhouse, Buzzshot, and the Reality Escape Convention. We truly appreciate your support of our mission to promote and improve the immersive gaming community.   Buzzshot Buzzshot is Escape Room Software, Powering Business Growth, Player Marketing, and improving the Customer Experience. They offer an assortment of pre and post game features including robust waiver management, branded team photos, and streamlined review management for Yelp, TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and Morty. Buzzshot now has integration with the other REPOD sponsors: Morty and COGS. Special Offer for REPOD Listeners: REPOD listeners get an extended 21-day free trial plus 20% off your first 3 months, with no set-up fees or hidden charges. Visit buzzshot.com/repod to learn more about this exclusive offer.   Support Us On Patreon Today Love escape rooms as much as we do? At Room Escape Artist, we've been analyzing, reviewing, and exploring the world of immersive games since 2014. We help players find the best experiences, and push the industry forward with well-researched, rational, and reasonably humorous escape room and immersive gaming content and events. By becoming a Patreon supporter, you're not just backing a blog — you're fueling a mission to make the escape room and immersive gaming community stronger, more thoughtful, and more connected. Access exclusive Patreon content such as: The Bonus Aftershow The Spoilers Club Early access to escape room Tour tickets and REA articles. Your Patreon support goes toward our mission: paying our contributors, funding our infrastructure, and supporting deep research and industry advocacy.   PG's Playhouse If you love wordplay, puzzles, and trivia, this is the podcast for you! PG's Playhouse recreates a fun game night, all in a short, 30-minute format. Of course, what's game night without making new friends? We bring on different guests for the different episodes. Each episode features a puzzle packed with wordplay and trivia, a short chat with the guest, and a segment exploring an interesting topic. I hope you'll take a listen and play along with us at PG's Playhouse.   Reality Escape Convention Our convention, RECON, will be in Laval, Quebec Canada on August 16th & 17th, 2026. RECON offers a curated collection of talks and experiences exploring the business and art of escape room and immersive game creation. All are welcome at this event that is crafted around professionals and aspiring professionals.   Production Credits Hosted by David Spira & Peih-Gee Law Produced by Theresa Piazza Supported by Lisa Spira Edited by Steve Ewing Music by Ryan Elder Logo by Janine Pracht

"You cannot personally make sure every visitor has a great time... but you can make sure at least one visitor has a great experience." Episode Chapters [03:36] Shifting from high attendance to quality visitor experiences [05:33] Complexities of social carrying capacities explored [08:50] Relying on technology and reservation systems [10:22] Zion crowding and alternative options [13:45] Addressing transportation infrastructure and shuttle loops [16:20] Preventing staff burnout and managing morale [19:13] Unintended consequences of park management choices The busy summer season is officially here. We always asked for more people to discover the beauty of parks and conservation, and they certainly are! In this episode, Jody Mayberry welcomes back retired director of South Carolina State Parks, Phil Gaines, to discuss the realities of managing capacity, infrastructure, and visitor expectations during the peak summer months. Phil and Jody trace how park philosophies have shifted from the old-school mentality of "packing them in" to a modern focus on preserving the social and resource carrying capacities of our public lands. They share personal stories from Zion and South Carolina's Lake Jocassee to highlight the balance between technology, transportation infrastructure, and personal connection. This episode serves as a guide for park supervisors on how to protect staff morale and prevent rangers from burning out on continuous traffic control. Read the blog for more from this episode. Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

When Warren Jeffs, the “prophet” of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (FLDS), a Mormon fundamentalist group whose members practice polygamy, stopped communicating regularly from prison where he is serving a life sentence for child sexual assault, his followers were at a loss. But, as Rachel Dretzin depicts in her powerful, eye-opening four-part Netflix series “Trust Me: The False Prophet,” Jeffs' silence created the opportunity for a new leader to fill the void. Enter Samuel Bateman, a seemingly unremarkable guy, who claimed that he was the new prophet.   Rachel joins Ken on the podcast to talk about the consequences of Bateman's rise within the FLDS, his influence over a handful of adults and girls in the community, and the tragic consequences of his actions. The centerpiece of “Trust Me” and the key to Bateman's undoing is Dr. Christine Marie, a former Mormon who, along with her husband, the videographer Tolga Katas, grew close to the group with the intent of exposing Bateman's crimes. Relying heavily on Tolga's insider footage, as well as key interviews with women who eventually turned against Bateman, the series shows how far trust can take some people and a measure of justice that can occur when that trust is finally broken.   “Trust Me: The False Prophet” is streaming on Netflix.   The Presenting Sponsor of "Top Docs" is Netflix.   Follow: @topdocspod on Instagram and X

Relying only on referrals might feel safe, but it could be the very thing limiting your growth. In this episode, Spencer breaks down the hidden costs of running a referral-only remodeling or custom home business. He walks through the five-pillar framework Builder Funnel uses to help builders and remodelers create consistent, scalable growth through marketing, conversion optimization, nurturing, sales processes, and attribution tracking. If you've hit a plateau and want to grow beyond the limits of word-of-mouth alone, this episode lays out the roadmap for building a true marketing engine.

5/28/26. Five Minutes in the Word scriptures for today: Galatians 3:10. The Curse of Relying on the Law Resources: biblehub.com; logos.com; Copilot. https://minutesword.blogspot.com/?m=1 Listen daily at 10:00 am CST on https://kingdompraiseradio.com Podcast website: https://www.hwscott.net/podcast.php YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/@hhwscott LISTEN, LIKE, FOLLOW, SHARE! #MinutesWord; @MinutesWord; #dailybiblestudy #dailydevotional #Christian_podcaster

Nimbus Manticore learning new tricks Phishing moves to real-time credential harvesting India wants 12-hour patches Check out your show notes here: https://cisoseries.com/cybersecurity-news-nimbus-manticore-real-time-credential-harvesting-12-hour-patches/  Huge thanks to our sponsor, Guardsquare Is your mobile app truly protected? Relying on the OS isn't enough. A global study of thirteen-hundred security and developer leaders found that ninety-six percent of teams using layered protection reported significantly fewer security incidents. Don't wait for a breach to harden your defenses. Get the protection needed for modern secuirty risks. Learn more at Guardsquare.com.

Small Business Exit Strategy: What Makes a Business Sellable? with Mike Finger   Find Rocky Lalvani @ www.ProfitComesFirst.com  or email him at rocky@profitcomesfirst.com Make more, work less video: https://youtu.be/   Are you building a business that you can actually sell, or have you just created a demanding job for yourself? In this episode of The Profit Answer Man, Rocky Lalvani sits down with Mike Finger, founder of Exit Oasis, to discuss the realities of preparing a small business for a successful exit. Mike, who identifies as "unapologetically small business," shares his hard-learned lessons from owning eight different businesses.   In this episode: A business that is enjoyable to own is more likely to be attractive to a buyer. Sellable businesses produce results that are desirable, duplicatable, and documented. Revenue growth without profit does not automatically create business value. Hiding profit to reduce taxes can significantly hurt valuation at exit. Systems such as Profit First and EOS can help remove the owner as the bottleneck.   Key Takeaways: Sellability and ownability are next-door neighbors. You must build desirable, duplicatable, and documented systems. The expected "silver tsunami" of business sales hasn't materialized. Hiding profit to save on taxes actively destroys your business's valuation multiple. Relying blindly on a business sale for retirement is a dangerous strategy.   Mike Finger's Money Learning:Mike Finger's core money lesson is that small business owners often sacrifice long-term wealth for short-term tax savings. His point is clear: when you hide profit to reduce taxes, you may also reduce the value of your business in the eyes of a buyer. Mike's message is that provable profit, clean financials, and strong systems are what create real enterprise value.   Why This Conversation Matters: Most small business owners assume that if they work hard enough, grow revenue, and keep the company going long enough, the exit will eventually take care of itself. This conversation matters because Mike makes it clear that sellability is not automatic. A business only becomes valuable to a buyer when it can produce results without being fully dependent on the owner.   About Mike Finger: Mike Finger is "unapologetically small business". Over the last 25 years Mike has bought, built and sold multiple businesses. Building his first business was a rewarding challenge, but what really captivated him was selling his first business. "Selling that business was a miracle in my life. It changed everything, but it almost didn't happen." He was 10 years in with 50 employees when he found out his business was unsellable. It was devastating. But he moved forward and focused on changing a few simple elements in the business. Those changes made that first sale possible, and it changed his life. He wants to help other small business owners make their business ready, so they can experience the incredible impact of a small business sale.   Links: Website: https://exitoasis.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-finger/     Profit Blueprint Calculator I Profit Comes First: https://lp.profitcomesfirst.com/profitblueprintcalc-page   Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@profitanswerman Sign up to be notified when the next cohort of the Profit First Experience Course is available! Free Copy of the Profit Blueprint Book: https://lp.profitcomesfirst.com/landing-page-page  Monthly Newsletter signup: https://lp.profitcomesfirst.com/newsletter-signup Relay Bank (affiliate link): https://relayfi.com/?referralcode=profitcomesfirst Profit Answer Man Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/profitanswerman/ My podcast about living a richer more meaningful life: http://richersoul.com/ Music provided by Junan from Junan Podcast Any financial advice is for educational purposes only and you should consult with an expert for your specific needs.     

If you want to give through Grace Church you can do so here: https://pushpay.com/g/grace-alone?src=hpp&r=monthlyConnected: Where Life and Relationships Begin is a 7-week journey designed to help you experience the life God created you for—rooted in Him and lived out in authentic relationships. This series will challenge and encourage you to stay connected daily and live with purposeTo Learn more about Grace Church go to https://gracechurchco.com/In this message, Pastor Rick Long discusses the biblical principles of healthy love and relationships, drawing from the Book of Ruth to illustrate how God orchestrates connections for those who put Him first (8:05, 15:55).Core Principles for Healthy Relationships:Put God at the Center (21:35): Rather than seeking a partner to complete you—a notion the pastor identifies as a cultural lie—individuals should first prioritize their relationship with God, as only He can fulfill that role (29:38, 30:01).Pursue Commitment Over Chemistry (31:28): While attraction is real, long-term healthy love is built on character, loyalty, and dedication to God's plan, not just physical chemistry (33:14, 35:13).Honor Boundaries (39:18): Boundaries are presented as tools to protect love and integrity rather than restrictions. The pastor encourages maintaining purity and avoiding sexual compromise before marriage (40:03, 44:41).Invite Wise Counsel (49:43): Relying on godly, experienced voices is essential for avoiding isolation and navigating life's challenges. The pastor emphasizes the value of community and resources like Celebrate Recovery (50:13, 51:28).Trust God Beyond Your Control (52:39): Regardless of circumstances, trusting in God's sovereignty allows for peace and eventual restoration, as seen in the lineage of Ruth and Boaz (53:19).The Ultimate Example:Pastor Long concludes that the story of Ruth and Boaz points to the greater love story of Jesus Christ, the ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer, who died to buy humanity back from sin (56:00).Additional Notes:The message opens with a celebration of the Forge Christian High School girls' soccer team state championship win and highlights the church's ongoing community and educational initiatives (0:51, 1:01:17).0:00 Welcome to Grace Church0:41 Introduction to the Connect Series0:51 Celebrating Forge Christian High School Girls Soccer State Title8:05 Healthy Love Starts Here12:35 Worldly views vs. God's view of relationships15:55 The Book of Ruth: A model for love21:35 Principle 1: Put God at the center31:28 Principle 2: Pursue commitment over chemistry39:18 Principle 3: Honor boundaries49:43 Principle 4: Invite wise counsel52:39 Principle 5: Trust God beyond your control56:00 The ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer: Jesus57:30 Invitation to trust in Jesus1:01:17 Final announcements and closing worship

Is the Wall Street ETF narrative killing peer-to-peer Bitcoin adoption? Is Bitcoin failing if it only becomes a corporate store of value hoarded on Wall Street? Institutional demand and exchange-traded funds are not the end game for hyperbitcoinization. True freedom requires building an alternative economic system entirely outside legacy banking, proving that Bitcoin must function as everyday money to succeed.Uncle Rockstar Dev (@r0ckstardev) unpacks how open source software protects financial sovereignty. The cypherpunk history of BTCPay Server demonstrates how a non-custodial payment gateway allows anyone to host a node without asking permission. Relying on a centralized crypto payment processor intermediates your wealth, meaning you must self-host your infrastructure to enforce individual sovereignty.A thriving circular economy operates directly on the ground. From kids using the Lightning Network to buy choco bananas in El Zonte to alternative networks expanding across Africa and Indonesia, communities are establishing localized ecosystems. These regions completely bypass legacy structures, choosing instead to settle daily medium of exchange transactions directly in Satoshis.Documenting this global shift requires a dedicated grassroots movement of creators who reject mainstream financial media. Independent documentarians Zack Dorsey (@zackdorseyx)  and Brandon Martin (@elbrandonmartin) share their proof of work traveling from Central America to Mauritius to capture peer to peer adoption. Capturing these alternative networks on camera is vital to countering corporate narratives and demonstrating how local financial inclusion scales from the bottom up.This decentralized evolution dismantles the broken, top-down corporate NGO model. Instead of creating loops of financial dependency, the leaders meeting at the Zonte Economic Forum are connecting their localized circles to build global network synergy. If you are ready to stop accumulating fiat and start participating in the parallel economy, smash that subscribe button, leave your thoughts on economic sovereignty below, and share this with someone still paying with dirty cash.—Bitcoin Beach TeamConnect and Learn more about the guests:Uncle Rockstar (X): https://x.com/r0ckstardevJethro Toro (X): https://x.com/JethroToroBrandon Martin (X): https://x.com/elbrandonmartinZack Dorsey: (X):  https://x.com/zackdorseyxSupport and follow Bitcoin Beach:X: https://www.twitter.com/BitcoinBeach IG: https://www.instagram.com/bitcoinbeach_sv TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@livefrombitcoinbeach Web: https://www.bitcoinbeach.com Browse through this quick guide to learn more about the episode:00:00  Intro02:21  How to accept Bitcoin for business using self hosted BTCPay Server04:16  BTCPay Server vs BitPay: Why Nicolas Dorier built an open source alternative06:30  Why hyperbitcoinization depends entirely on grassroots adoption10:02  What a real Bitcoin standard looks like in El Salvador and globally11:42  Will Bitcoin fail if it only becomes a Wall Street store of value12:42  Why Bitcoin Beach rejected the centralized fiat NGO funding model21:23  Proof of Work journalism: Independent media reporting on El Salvador24:44  What it is really like moving to El Salvador to live on Bitcoin27:31  How connecting peer to peer networks creates global monetary synergyLive From Bitcoin Beach

Rachel LaCasse-Ford - Lake Road Campground On the Best Plan for Business: "It's very important when you're thinking about purchasing a business or starting a business that you know the beginning, middle, and end, like, you know all the pieces, you know how you're going to get in, how you're going to manage it, and how you're going to get out if things don't go well, or if things go well and you want and you're ready to sell and move on." There are businesses everywhere, or every type.  Rachel thought it would be a great idea to buy a campground. Now she is here explaining her compelling story! From navigating the ins and outs of real estate and business purchase, to building a self-sustaining, hospitality-focused business with the help of family, trade associations, and thoughtful planning, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories. Whether you're dreaming of your own entrepreneurial venture or simply love a good behind-the-scenes peek at unique local businesses, you won't want to miss the authentic insights and lessons learned shared here. So grab your campsite mug and settle in for this week's adventure! Enjoy! Visit Rachel at: https://lakeroadcampground.com/ Sponsors: Live Video chat with our customers here with LiveSwitch: https://join.liveswitch.com/gfj3m6hnmguz Calls On Call Extraordinary Answering Service: https://callsoncall.com Some videos have been recorded with Riverside: https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=james-kademan   Podcast Overview: 00:00 Importance of keeping good books 05:06 Managing a small rental property 08:54 Laundry and bathroom amenities 10:58 Things to do around the campsite 15:59 Family-run campgrounds discussion 18:25 Setting competitive pricing strategy 20:20 Preparing for potential flooding 25:19 Watching dredging near the lock 26:35 Family outings by the overlook 29:42 Relying on handyman skills 35:06 Managing campground quiet hours 38:46 Importance of good bookkeeping 39:33 Evaluating a business opportunity 44:42 Planning for future capital needs 47:31 Empty nester future plans Podcast Transcription:  

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The skilled labor shortage isn't just a hiring problem. It's a perception problem. In this episode of Service Business Mastery, Tersh Blissett and Joshua Crouch sit down with Ruchir Shah, founder of SkillCat, to discuss why home service companies are struggling to attract and retain skilled workers and what the industry can do about it. Ruchir shares how his background in workforce training led him to build SkillCat, an online trade training platform helping people transition into HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and appliance repair careers. If your company struggles with hiring, retention, or technician development, this episode offers a practical look at how the future workforce is changing. What You Will Learn in This Episode Why the trades are becoming more attractive to younger generations How white-collar workers are now transitioning into skilled trades The real reason people are leaving traditional office jobs Why many technicians feel more fulfilled than corporate workers The growing impact of AI on career choices Why training accessibility is critical for the future of the trades How online trade training and certifications are changing recruiting Why mechanical aptitude matters more than experience The role gamification and microlearning play in technician development How companies can build better apprenticeship and training programs Timestamps 00:00 Expanding online trade certifications 04:52 Starting SkillCat to help reskill 06:26 Job security concerns in Savannah 09:43 Switching to a paid model 15:01 Relying on social media sharing 17:05 Emphasizing the importance of networking 20:08 Trades job satisfaction and benefits 22:55 The value of trade jobs 25:58 Returning to familiar industries 31:27 Building trade school courses 32:59 Designing bite-sized, interactive courses Follow the Host and Guest Tersh Blissett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tershblissett/ Joshua Crouch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-crouch/ Ruchir Shah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruchir-shah/ SkillCat: https://www.skillcatapp.com Connect with Us • LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/service-business-mastery • TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@servicebusinessmasterypodcast • Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/servicebusinessmasterypodcast • Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/servicebusinessmasterypodcast This episode is kindly powered by: UpFrog: upfrog.com  MarketStorm is an AI-powered advertising platform. Results vary by market, budget, and campaign configuration: https://marketstorm.ai/  Get Your 14-Day Free Trial with CallRail!: https://www.callrail.com/sbmpod CompanyCam: https://companycam.com/  Breezy: Capture 25-30% more clients with Breezy AI Agents. Use code 'SBM' to book a demo and get $500 on us: https://getbreezyapp.com/schedule-demo PhoneTAP: Your calls hold the key to growing your business. PhoneTAP gives you instant AI analysis, real customer lifetime value, and tools to coach your team. Learn more: phonetap.ai/demo   

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3564: Kiersten Saunders explores the 4% rule as a framework for achieving financial independence by living below your means, investing wisely, and creating enough wealth to live off investment growth. She also shares why relying solely on stock portfolios isn't enough for her family, outlining a strategy built around real estate and multiple income streams to create more freedom, flexibility, and control over time. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://richandregular.com/the-4-rule-and-why-were-not-relying-on-it/ Quotes to ponder: "I define financial independence as the “breakeven point” of life, or the point where your fixed cost of living is covered." "IF you are in a position to explore alternative ways of earning income and are interested in owning more of your time, you should consider this approach of “front-loading” your retirement." "A well balanced, cost effective portfolio can withstand an annual withdrawal of 4% into perpetuity." Episode references: Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE): https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/financial-independence-retire-early-fire.asp S&P 500: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/sp500.asp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Seven Figure Consultant Podcast, originally broadcast in December 2023, I had the pleasure of interviewing my amazing client, Alecia Huck. Alecia is the founder and CEO of MAVERICK & Company, a management consulting firm that specialises in working with the leadership teams of fast-growing companies. Alecia shared her inspiring business journey and the valuable insights she has gained along the way. We also discussed the importance of valuing the work we do over the amount of time we spend doing it, shifting from a time-based approach to a value-based approach to work less while achieving even greater results. As women entrepreneurs, Alecia and I also delved into the unique challenges we face in the business world. We discussed the importance of letting go of control and embracing collaboration, as well as the need for self-acceptance and gratitude in our professional relationships. Alecia's story is truly inspiring, and her insights are invaluable for anyone looking to grow their consulting business. In This Episode: [00:00:48] Jessica and Alecia discuss how they first met and decided to work together after a serendipitous LinkedIn post. [00:04:15] Alecia shares the journey of her business, from starting as an entrepreneur with no experience to finding her niche in working with leadership teams in fast-growing companies. [00:07:29] Working less and earning more, and the importance of shifting focus from time-based to value-based work. [00:12:43] The difficulties of breaking free from old narratives and habits that prioritise overworking. [00:16:13] Relying on others and allowing them to make decisions for the business or brand. [00:18:58] The need to let go of control, loosen up, and take action without striving for perfection. [00:21:37] The reality of entrepreneurship and how it often involves unexpected challenges and growth opportunities. [00:23:21] Big wins and personal growth. [00:26:07] The limitations of working more and the impact of self-acceptance on one's effectiveness. [00:29:27] Breaking out of old paradigms to achieve new results and make a difference in the lives of others. Key Takeaways:  As consultants and coaches, the work we do can have a significant impact on businesses beyond just finances, such as employee happiness and team dynamics. Many business owners who have grown their companies organically end up feeling overwhelmed and trapped by their success. Alecia and I both advocate for a shift in mindset from being a freelancer who tracks time to being an expert who focuses on delivering value. As women entrepreneurs, we often rely on ourselves too much and find it difficult to allow others to help and make decisions about our business. It's important to let go and allow others to contribute - We don't need to control everything! Find a balance between working less and earning more. Pushing too hard can lead to burnout and limit growth. True brilliance comes from self-acceptance and being comfortable with yourself. Quotes: "We mix up time and value, right? Because time is really easy to quantify and value can be hard to quantify. And what I think is really great is that if you actually make this shift from valuing your time and talking about things in terms of time and focusing on how long you work… if you shift over to thinking about the value you produce, I think that's better for your clients." - Alecia Huck "I call them your snakes in your brain, the voice that's kind of negative, right? It's a little distracting. And you do something really great and it goes, 'oh, you're just a spotlight hog'. We all have snakes in the brain, and some of us have snakes informed by trauma and really, you know, intense things in our past and that can make them nastier and more subtle. But, this year was a year where I worked probably less than I ever had. And I want to be really clear, the results that I produced with my people were extraordinary." - Alecia Huck "I think that we often are so self-reliant, and there are often backstories that completely explain why we're like that, but I think for women entrepreneurs, we rely on ourselves aggressively. And we have to be told how to include other people and how to allow other people to help us, because actually, that's not something that comes naturally." - Jessica Fearnley Useful Links Alecia: Alecia's LinkedIn MAVERICK & Company Website Jessica: Buy Jessica's book, Too Much, on Amazon Get in touch with Jessica to discuss your consulting business Leave a rating and review for the Seven Figure Consultant Podcast Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn Guest Bio Alecia Huck is the founder and owner of MAVERICK & Company, a management consulting firm that specialises in working with the leadership teams of fast-growing companies. A sought-after speaker and writer, Alecia helps people have more BIG wins; the kind of wins where you get great results but also become a bigger, better, braver version of yourself along the way. Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn for great content and to join an amazing tribe of awesome humans.

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3564: Kiersten Saunders explores the 4% rule as a framework for achieving financial independence by living below your means, investing wisely, and creating enough wealth to live off investment growth. She also shares why relying solely on stock portfolios isn't enough for her family, outlining a strategy built around real estate and multiple income streams to create more freedom, flexibility, and control over time. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://richandregular.com/the-4-rule-and-why-were-not-relying-on-it/ Quotes to ponder: "I define financial independence as the “breakeven point” of life, or the point where your fixed cost of living is covered." "IF you are in a position to explore alternative ways of earning income and are interested in owning more of your time, you should consider this approach of “front-loading” your retirement." "A well balanced, cost effective portfolio can withstand an annual withdrawal of 4% into perpetuity." Episode references: Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE): https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/financial-independence-retire-early-fire.asp S&P 500: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/sp500.asp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3564: Kiersten Saunders explores the 4% rule as a framework for achieving financial independence by living below your means, investing wisely, and creating enough wealth to live off investment growth. She also shares why relying solely on stock portfolios isn't enough for her family, outlining a strategy built around real estate and multiple income streams to create more freedom, flexibility, and control over time. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://richandregular.com/the-4-rule-and-why-were-not-relying-on-it/ Quotes to ponder: "I define financial independence as the “breakeven point” of life, or the point where your fixed cost of living is covered." "IF you are in a position to explore alternative ways of earning income and are interested in owning more of your time, you should consider this approach of “front-loading” your retirement." "A well balanced, cost effective portfolio can withstand an annual withdrawal of 4% into perpetuity." Episode references: Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE): https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/financial-independence-retire-early-fire.asp S&P 500: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/sp500.asp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Donald Trump and Xi Jinping wrap up their summit in Beijing with little more to show for it than a few awkward handshakes, the media is left wondering where the big breakthrough went. But as we explore in this video, the failure of the "beans and Boeings" summit wasn't a political failure—it was a certainty. Relying on the insights of economist Michael Pettis, we break down why trade surpluses and deficits are driven by domestic savings and investment choices, rather than trade policies or tariffs. From China's systematic suppression of household consumption to the United States' structural trap as the global consumer of last resort, the underlying economic imbalances forcing this trade war cannot be fixed by podium announcements. Patrick's Books:Statistics For The Trading Floor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://amzn.to/3eerLA0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Derivatives For The Trading Floor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://amzn.to/3cjsyPF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Corporate Finance: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://amzn.to/3fn3rvC ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ways To Support The Channel:Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/PatrickBoyleOnFinance⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/patrickboyle

In this episode, Kusalasara introduces the series "Revering and Relying on the Dharma," focusing on the practice of wise attention as a tool to perceive reality without the distortions of craving or bias. By exploring the parable of the blind men and the elephant, the talk illustrates how attachment to partial perspectives creates a "thicket of views" that can lead to conflict and a sense of isolation. We are invited to move beyond fixed certainties and conditioning to discover a more spacious, interconnected way of seeing.

What this episode is about If you've been relying on warm referrals and introductions to bring in corporate clients, this episode is your wake-up call. Sales strategist Jess Lorimer breaks down the two distinct types of B2B lead generation that every coach, consultant, trainer, speaker, and done-for-you service provider needs to understand - and crucially, which one to prioritise depending on where you are in your business right now. With the summer window for reaching corporate decision makers closing fast, Jess explains why now is the time to audit your lead generation approach and plug the gaps before September. Who this episode is for A coach, consultant, trainer, speaker, or done-for-you service provider selling services to corporate clients Currently relying on warm referrals or introductions to generate B2B sales leads Experiencing the feast-and-famine cycle in your business - busy with delivery, then suddenly with nothing in your pipeline Unsure whether your lead generation is failing, or whether the problem lies elsewhere in your sales process Planning your B2B sales strategy for Q3 and Q4 2026 Questions this episode answers What is B2B lead generation and how is it different from just 'doing outreach'? Why isn't my lead generation converting into sales? What's the difference between active lead generation and passive visibility? When should I use active lead generation vs passive lead generation in my business? How do I stop the feast-and-famine cycle in my B2B sales pipeline? How are corporate decision makers searching for external suppliers in 2026? Key takeaways  1. Lead Generation has one job - and it's not to close sales One of the most common mistakes coaches and consultants make is judging their lead generation by whether it produced a sale. Jess is clear: the job of lead generation is to book qualified sales calls, not to close contracts. When you blend the two, you end up blaming your lead generation for problems that might actually live elsewhere in your sales process - such as your offer, your pricing, or your proposal. 2. Active lead generation: The strategy you control Active lead generation is any lead generation strategy that works while you are implementing it, and stops when you stop. Examples include: Cold email outreach LinkedIn outreach Any proactive, volume-driven outreach to decision makers Active lead generation is entirely within your control. You set the metrics, monitor the results, and can troubleshoot what's working. This makes it the right approach when you are not yet fully booked with corporate clients - because you have the time, energy, and capacity to execute it consistently. The risk: if you become too busy with delivery to keep it running, it stops. Which is exactly when many coaches and consultants find themselves with an empty pipeline.   3. Passive visibility: Lead generation that works without you Passive visibility is Jess's term for lead generation strategies that build brand awareness, visibility, and inbound leads over time - without requiring you to execute them week in, week out. Examples include: Speaking on internal company podcasts Being featured in a curated directory with proactive marketing (such as the Expert Services Directory) Activities that help you rank in AI search tools (GEO - Generative Engine Optimisation) and Google Presenting at awards events or industry panels Passive visibility strategies are compounding: they build over time. They are not designed to produce a sales call every single week, but they ensure that when a corporate decision maker goes looking for an external supplier, you show up. In 2026, decision makers are actively searching for external suppliers online. If you are not visible in those searches, you are invisible to them. The risk: passive visibility alone is not enough if you have no clients yet. You need to understand your messaging and what works before you can hand it off or systematise it.   4. You need both - at different stages of your business Active lead generation and passive visibility are not either/or. They serve different purposes at different stages: Not yet fully booked with clients? Prioritise active lead generation. Use the time and capacity you have now to fill your pipeline before it's too late. About to be fully booked or in a heavy delivery period? Start building your passive visibility now so your brand continues to generate leads while you're delivering. Relying only on warm referrals? You are not in control of your lead generation - and your business is more vulnerable than it looks. 5. The summer window is closing If you are based in the UK, you have roughly until the second week of July before corporate decision makers become significantly harder to reach. For those in Central Europe or the US, that window closes around mid-June. If you do not have a pipeline of qualified leads generating sales calls now, you need to act before that window shuts. Key Quotes "The job of lead generation is to book qualified sales calls, not to make sales." "Decision makers are searching actively for external suppliers. If you're not doing anything on that passive visibility front, you're not going to show up in search." "Active lead generation is completely within your control. And there are times in your business when you have the time and energy to be able to implement it - use them." Resources + Links Mentioned in This Episode Join the B2B Sales Edit: Busyness to Business Weekly newsletter for coaches and consultants; sharing the real B2B sales techniques that have taken over 30,000 sales processes from busy -> balanced and profitable. https://magic.beehiiv.com/v1/988ac64b-5875-4924-9d10-50faad2aa4ad?email=%EMAIL% Episode sponsored by The Expert Services Directory: Access The Expert Services Directory here https://bit.ly/ExpertServicesDirectory and use code PODCAST for a special bonus. A curated directory that proactively markets your services to corporate decision makers every month. Standard listings reach 1,000+ decision makers per month; Directory Plus listings reach 2,000+. Only 10 suppliers per category. Standard listing: 1,000+ decision makers per month Directory Plus listing: 2,000+ decision makers per month Application required - not all applications are accepted Cold -> Closed The self-paced B2B sales experience for coaches / consultants/ speakers / trainers and done-for-you service providers who want scalable, sustainable sales from brand new corporate clients in 90 days or less. https://smartleaderssell.thrivecart.com/-cold-to-closed-product/ If you've enjoyed listening to Two types of B2B lead generation that coaches + consultants need to use, check out these episodes. STC173 - B2B Sales Trends for Q2: Which One Are You Actioning? https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/40894390 STC169 - Why 'Normal' Communication Is Stopping You Feeling Confident with Sales Communication https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/40172105 STC167 - Are You Speaking to Decision Makers or Influencers (and Why It Matters) https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/39846375 Content Disclaimer The information contained above is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this article, video or audio are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this article, video or audio. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this article, video or audio. Jessica Lorimer disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this article, video or audio.  

Most leaders think their biggest problem is hiring the right people. Bruce McLeod says the real problem is what happens after they arrive — and what quietly destroys them once they do.In this episode, Bruce shares the framework he developed after more than a decade watching rapid growth hollow out companies from the inside: burning out top talent, rewarding the wrong behaviors, and leaving entire teams operating without a shared understanding of what winning even looks like. If your company depends on one or two people to hold everything together, this conversation will challenge how you think about leadership, structure, and what it actually means to build something that lasts.TranscriptThe Healthy Compnay Framework

If you've been trying to “eat healthy” but still struggling with bloating, low energy, stress, cravings, or digestive issues… this episode is for you.In today's solo episode of The Balance with Britt Podcast, Britt breaks down what “food as medicine” actually means in a realistic, sustainable way and shares the gut health mistakes she sees women making.You'll learn how nutrients like antioxidants, vitamin C, magnesium, omega-3s, fibre, protein, iron, and B vitamins support your gut, nervous system, stress response, energy, and overall health… without needing to obsess over food or follow restrictive diets.This episode is packed with nutrition tips for busy women who want to support their gut health naturally and feel better in their bodies.In This Episode, We Cover:-What “food as medicine” actually means=How antioxidants help protect your cells from damage-The role of vitamin C in stress, adrenal health, collagen production, and immunity-Why magnesium is essential for stress, sleep, digestion, and nervous system support-Omega-3 fatty acids and their anti-inflammatory benefits-Why fibre is foundational for gut health and blood sugar balance-The importance of protein for energy, hormones, and gut repair-Common signs your body may need more iron and B vitamins-The biggest gut health mistakes Britt sees women making-Why restrictive diets often backfire-The connection between stress and digestion-Simple, realistic nutrition habits that actually support gut healingTop Gut Health Mistakes Discussed:-Cutting out too many foods too quickly-Ignoring digestion and eating in a stressed state-Skipping balanced meals and blood sugar support-Relying too heavily on supplements-Trying to overhaul your entire routine overnight-Overlooking the gut-stress connection Connect with Britt

Dwyane Wade is one of the greatest NBA players of all time. The thirteen-time all-star player won three championships during his time in the league. In the six years since his retirement, he's focused on his family and philanthropy, working with the Wade Family Foundation to support communities in need. Wade opened up to Hoda on how he fell in love with basketball, his decision to retire, and his battle with cancer. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Genesis 16:8 reveals how God uses powerful questions to expose the hidden fears, wounds, and thought patterns shaping our lives. In this devotional, Jennifer Slattery reflects on God’s interaction with Hagar and shows how the Lord still asks believers today: “Where have you come from, and where are you going?” These questions are not rooted in condemnation, but in God’s loving desire to guide His children toward healing, wisdom, and peace. Highlights God’s questions often uncover hidden fears, wounds, and insecurities. Genesis 16 shows God intentionally pursuing Hagar in her place of overwhelm. Emotional reactions are often connected to unresolved pain from the past. God invites believers to examine where they’ve come from and where they’re headed. Obedience to God requires trusting His heart, even when the path feels difficult. God’s guidance is rooted in love, provision, and long-term healing. Reflecting honestly with God can lead to greater peace, wisdom, and emotional health. Have an idea for our newsletter? We want to hear from you! Take our survey below: Take Our Survey! Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: When God Asks Powerful Probing Questions By: Jennifer Slattery Bible Reading: And he said, “Hagar, slave of Sarai, where have you come from, and where are you going?” “I’m running away from my mistress Sarai,” she answered. (Genesis 16:8, NIV) God’s questions have a way of piercing to the deepest places in our souls—where lies and insecurities often reside undetected. When anxious and overwhelmed, I have a difficult time demonstrating the love and grace of Christ. Add enough challenges and frustrations to my day, and I can become irritable with the people I most love. But I can rarely, if ever, will myself to respond better. Relying on self-control might help momentarily, but eventually, the undealt with gunk in my soul bubbles out and onto those I hold dear. That was how I behaved the night my husband and I checked into our VRBO to escape Nebraska’s bitterly cold winter. We make this journey each January, beginning with a long road trip during which we see as many grandkids as possible. This is always a lovely… and exhausting endeavor that involves hours in our vehicle, standstill traffic, and clamoring in and out of numerous hotels (Our mini-golden doodle was not a fan and alerted us to this by barking all night at other guests roaming the halls. We have since learned that under no circumstances will we allow the hotel clerk to give us a room near the elevators!). By the time we reached our destination, where we planned to remain all month, I felt frazzled, anxious, and struggling to untangle my brain’s swirling mess of have-tos and a series of new problems that felt insurmountable. In short, I didn’t handle the situation well. More accurately, I behaved more like a temper tantrummy toddler without a nap, than the Spirit-empowered reflection of Christ to which I’m called. Initially, this evoked latent shame. Had this occurred a few years ago, I might’ve stayed in that place of self-condemnation. That only would’ve added to my stress. But God is teaching me to go deeper—in myself, and with Him. To move past surface-level attempts at holiness to consider the roots of my reactions, He used today’s verse to do so. The morning after my ungracious response to my very gracious husband, I sensed God’s whisper, “Where have you come from? Where are you going?” He wasn’t asking about my present location. He wanted me to prayerfully consider how past experiences were impacting my present. What wounds distorted my perception and challenged my trust? What lies lurked in my subconscious and wreaked havoc on my present? And, where was I going? First, where did I want to go? Did I want to stay stuck in dysregulated responses, or did I want to become healthier and holier? Did I want to follow God’s lead moment by moment and day by day, in my times of overwhelm, included? These questions evoked others, such as, do I trust the direction in which God is leading me enough to follow? Finally, I sensed Him inviting me to consider where He’s taking me, and this is something He’s been reiterating to me for some time. Often, when obedience feels difficult, He reminds me of His heart and plans for me and those I love. This helps steady me by assuring me that He remains faithfully in control, regardless of how out of control I might feel in that moment. The Lord spoke a similar message to an Egyptian slave named Hagar. If you’re familiar with Old Testament history, you might know her story. Scholars suggest she might’ve been part of the “gifts” given to Abram by the Pharaoh in Genesis 12. This alone must have felt traumatic—to be treated as property, torn from her homeland, and forced to live in servitude with a clan she knew little about. Then, around a decade later, she experienced an abuse that must’ve cut deep into her soul. Sarai gave her to Abram, Sarai’s husband, to impregnate. You can imagine how traumatic this must’ve been, and the bitterness and fear that might’ve invaded her soul. Once she conceived, the tension between her and Sarai became so intense that Hagar fled. Perhaps she intended to return to Egypt. Maybe she simply reacted out of fear and overwhelm, triggering a flight response. Regardless, she soon found herself pregnant, vulnerable, and defenseless in the wilderness. There, beneath the intense Middle Eastern sun, she might’ve died, if not for “the Angel of the Lord”, who many scholars believe was pre-incarnate Jesus. According to Genesis 16:7, He found her—I love that phrasing, as it implies that He intentionally went looking for her. He found her near a spring in the desert beside the road to Shur. And He asked her the same two questions He asked me: Where have you come from and where are you going.” I read this as an invitation for a holy pause. An opportunity for her to re-engage rational thinking and consider where her panicked reaction led her. And where are you going, as in, “Is this the direction you really want to head? Further into the wilderness, to raise your baby alone?” I must acknowledge that this account feels uncomfortable. I don’t like to think that the Lord told her to return to the place in which she’d been abused. But I also see how this was an act of care, love, and provision. By His grace, He brought Hagar back under His covenantal blessing and allowed her to raise her son with direct access to his father, who came to love him deeply. Then, when that child became older, He released him and his mother, again, with His blessing. Intersecting Life & Faith: Unprocessed wounds, fear, and catastrophic thinking can lead to self-sabotaging decisions. When experiencing pain and injustice, often, all we want is relief. But what happens when our desire for relief leads us to greater danger? Thankfully, God meets in our place of overwhelm and invites us to consider where we’ve come from and where we’re going. The more we learn to do so, the greater our peace and the less our shame and regret. And eventually, standing on the other side of obedience, we recognize that God truly knows best. His love was leading the entire time. Further Reading: Genesis 3:9-10 1 Kings 19:3-15 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

From cruise-ship chaos to boardroom clarity: how systems, not willpower, quietly run your life and business. In this episode, David and Londa jump from cruise ships and long-haul flights to COVID recovery and daily routines to uncover a single theme: your success is built on systems, not spur-of-the-moment effort. Through personal stories—missed entertainment, health scares, and a home-organization overhaul—they show how questioning narratives, taking personal responsibility, and reactivating simple systems can transform both your life and your business. Three Business Takeaways 1. Systems beat motivation. Relying on willpower is fragile; simple, repeatable systems (like Londa's “Sidetracked Home Executives” approach) create predictable results in both home and business. 2. Question the narrative. Whether it's media blame or conventional health advice, top performers pause, ask better questions, and take ownership instead of waiting for someone else to fix things. 3. Operationalize the basics. Turning everyday responsibilities into scheduled, systematized tasks (daily/weekly/monthly) frees mental bandwidth for higher‑value work and bigger opportunities. [hanta boat] #SystemsOverWillpower #PersonalResponsibility #BusinessHabits #OperationalExcellence #ProductiveLife

AI systems are increasingly embedded as non-human participants within managed environments, driving a structural shift in operational responsibility and exposure for MSPs. This shift is characterized by the integration of AI-powered tools—such as note takers, copilots, connectors, and agents—into core business workflows and SaaS platforms. Companies like Google, Microsoft, and ServiceNow are formalizing AI governance with platform features such as agent registries, policy enforcement gateways, and cross-platform audit trails. Reports from industry sources, including Wired, Rubrik, and regulatory bodies in the EU, substantiate these developments and highlight changing expectations for accountability and control. A key finding, according to security research by Red Access and covered by Wired, is that over 5,000 publicly exposed AI-generated web apps were found on the open web, with about 40% leaking sensitive data ranging from medical records to corporate strategy documents. Rubrik's Zero Lab survey of over 1,600 IT and security leaders further reports that 86% expect AI agents will surpass existing security controls within a year, while only 23% feel they have full visibility into these agents' activities. The New York Times and legal organizations note increasing legal and evidentiary risks posed by AI transcription tools in business meetings, warning that ungoverned AI outputs may be subject to discovery in litigation and could compromise attorney-client privilege. Additional developments reinforce the governance and risk gap. Platform vendors are building more granular control and auditing features, but most client environments still include unregulated AI tools, third-party connectors, and manual overrides outside these native boundaries. Regulatory frameworks are evolving to place explicit bans on specific AI outputs and to delay implementation of high-risk AI oversight, as seen in the EU's provisional AI Act. The integration between Black Kite and Sayari exemplifies how vendors are seeking to connect risk intelligence across supply chains, but operator-level exposure often remains distributed and ambiguous. For MSPs and IT leaders, the practical implication is an immediate requirement to inventory and classify AI participants and outputs within managed domains, clarify contractual scope, and establish evidence-ready policies for audits, incidents, and legal review. Relying solely on vendor platform controls is insufficient, as clients and auditors will expect clear documentation of AI activity, data access, and policy enforcement. Many agreements are not priced or structured for AI governance and may require explicit scope adjustments, upcharges for AI inventory and policy services, and contractual exclusions for unmanaged AI activity to avoid unpriced liability. 00:00 Agents Unchecked 04:49 Control the Bot 06:58 AI Audit Risk 10:38 Why Do We Care?  Supported by:  Nerdio TimeZest   

When many investors approach retirement, one of their most pressing questions is how their portfolio will generate the income needed to fund their lifestyle. It's a common belief, often repeated by financial pundits and well-meaning friends, that you should simply "live off the dividends" from your investments. It sounds appealing: a steady stream of payments, without having to sell any shares. Relying solely on dividend-paying stocks in retirement can create hidden risks and may not be the optimal path to financial security. I explore what it actually means to live off dividends in retirement, the benefits and risks of relying on high-dividend-paying stocks or funds, and why diversification might be a smarter approach for long-term financial security.    You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... [00:00] Living on dividends in retirement [06:31] Dividend stocks vs market returns [09:04] How call options work [10:50] Considerations for income-focused funds [15:15] Discussing withdrawal strategy options   The Allure (and Limits) of Dividend Strategies The appeal of a dividend-driven retirement portfolio is easy to see: pick companies with high yields, collect regular income, and (hopefully) never touch the principal. Using free tools such as Fidelity's stock screener, you can quickly assemble a list of stocks yielding 4% or more. But look closer, and several challenges arise. High dividend-paying stocks tend to be clustered in a few sectors: real estate, consumer staples, healthcare, and energy. This concentration means your portfolio lacks diversification—the single most important factor in managing risk and smoothing returns over time. If these sectors hit hard times, both income and capital could suffer.   An Overlooked Consequence of Dividends and Taxes Interest, dividends, and capital gains are all taxable (sometimes at favorable rates), but in a taxable (non-retirement) account, high dividend income can bump up your annual tax bill regardless of whether you need the cash. With a focus on capital appreciation, you retain more control: you sell as needed, and only pay tax on realized gains.   The Smarter Alternative is Total Return Investing In my opinion, the better approach is a "total return" portfolio: broad diversification across stocks and bonds, targeting growth and income together, while managing risk. Bonds provide stability and income during volatile periods, allowing for stable withdrawals even if stocks temporarily decline. Withdrawal strategies like the Guyton-Klinger guardrails model adjust withdrawals based on market conditions and keep your portfolio aligned with your longevity and inflation risks. Index investing, with its low costs and full market exposure, helps retirees avoid the sector pitfalls of dividend chasing while participating in overall economic growth. Dividends can be a useful piece of your retirement income puzzle—but making them the sole focus of your portfolio can expose you to unnecessary risk, tax drag, and potential underperformance. Instead, construct a balanced total-return strategy. That way, you'll generate income, growth, and peace of mind—not just in bull markets, but in any market environment.   Resources Mentioned Retirement Readiness Review Subscribe to the Retire with Ryan YouTube Channel Download my entire book for FREE  Fidelity Stock Screener Tools Schwab US Dividend ETF (SCHD) Schwab Total Stock Market Index Fund (SWTSX) JP Morgan Equity Income ETF (JEPI) Berkshire Hathaway AT&T Frontier Communications How To Get More Retirement Income Using Retirement Guardrails    Connect With Morrissey Wealth Management  www.MorrisseyWealthManagement.com/contact Subscribe to Retire With Ryan  

Ian Buruma details the "U-boats," young Jews living clandestine lives in Berlin without legal papers. He describes the city's descent into lawlessness following the defeat at Stalingrad. Survival became transactional, relying on the goodwill or opportunism of strangers in a society where Hitler was the law. (4/16)1945 BERLIN

Hey Winner, If you've been feeling the pressure to constantly create content just to stay visible, this session offers a deeper shift. Tiffany Neuman shares how to move beyond content and build something more meaningful... a message that actually carries weight and spreads. Instead of relying on platforms, she walks through what it looks like to create a foundation that supports long-term authority and growth. This is a thoughtful approach to building a business that stands on more than visibility alone. Rooting for you ~ Gabe   Listen to hear: Why social media should support your business—not be the foundation of it The difference between posting content and building a true movement How to create a message that grows through depth, clarity, and real connection   Links mentioned in talk: Register (free) here: https://redhotmindset.com/gbws-register/ Swag bag: https://growwithoutsocial.com/swag-early  Tiffany's website: http://brandospro.com Free gift: The Authority Positioning Audit https://audit.brandospro.com/

Feeling tired, busy, and still trying to create content that actually grows your business? Same. In this episode, I'm sharing how to create higher quality content in less time without handing your whole content strategy over to AI or spending half your week staring at a blinking cursor. We're talking about the behind-the-scenes systems that make content creation faster, easier, and a whole lot less brain-draining. I'll share what changed in my own workflow, why AI is not the magic fix everyone wants it to be, and the one content habit that can save you hours when your brain is tired and “no worky.” If you've ever felt like creating one blog, podcast, email, or post takes way longer than it should, this episode will give you a more practical way forward. And if you want help turning your audio content into SEO-friendly blogs, grab my Audio to SEO Custom GPT  below. Get the same custom GPT I use to turn a podcast episode (or YouTube audio) into a blog that drives sales! Audio to SEO Custom GPT. Use the code PODCAST to save 10% Free training: Learn how to get 300X More Website Traffic in a Year in 3 Simple Steps Email info@faithhanan.com

Stewart O. Heath, Founder and CEO of Harvard Grace Capital, a private equity real estate firm that helps business owners build wealth through passive, … Read more The post The silent risk of relying solely on your business for income and how to diversify appeared first on Top Entrepreneurs Podcast | Enterprise Podcast Network.

In this episode of the Modern Direct Seller Podcast, we're joined by Matt Diamante, SEO specialist, author, and founder of agency Hey Tony, to talk about one of the most underutilized growth strategies for direct sellers: getting found on Google. Matt breaks down what SEO actually is, why it matters for solopreneurs and small business owners, and how pairing it with AI tools can turn everyday customer questions into content that works around the clock. You'll also hear a specific AI prompt that makes blog writing faster, smarter, and actually useful, plus a straight-talking take on email lists, social media, and what's really driving revenue in today's landscape.You can connect with Matt by searching Matt Diamante on any social platform, where he posts daily. Be sure to check out Hey Tony and his book Get Found, the perfect starting point if you're new to SEO or just want to know enough to manage it yourself. Direct sellers can also explore Oh My Hi for a real website that's built for your business. Time-Based Notes:1:35 - Rapid Fire: Tech Tools, Email Habits & Work Schedule3:47 - Matt's Background & The Story Behind Hey Tony5:46 - SEO Fundamentals for Non-Technical Users8:32 - The AI Prompt That Makes Blog Writing Easy12:26 - Building Assets vs. Relying on Algorithms15:20 - Social Media and SEO - Better Together17:43 - How to Make Content Creation Easier18:38 - Content Creation Workflows & Processes20:33 - Limitless AI & Capturing Content from Everyday Conversations21:41 - SEO in the Age of AI & What's Really Happening with Search24:19 - Google AI Overviews & How to Think About Your Content Strategy27:24 - Getting Started with Google Search ConsoleShow sponsored by CinchShare: The number one most trusted social media scheduling tool for direct sellers. Start your 60 day trial today with coupon code KEYBOARD60 and spend less time posting and more time socializing!Get the full show notes at https://moderndirectseller.com/episode287

Feeling overwhelmed by social media? In this episode, Lisa and Susan talk about how to choose the right platform for your business without trying to be everywhere at once. They share how to identify where your ideal customer is, match your product to the best platform, and focus on what actually works. They also explain why analytics matter more than likes and how to avoid burnout by simplifying your social media strategy.TakeawaysYou do not need to be on every social media platform—focus on one or two where your ideal customer already spends time. Likes and comments are not the best measure of success. Check your analytics like reach, saves, shares, and website clicks to see what's really working. Your ideal customer matters more than your product category. Just because “everyone eats” or “everyone needs skincare” doesn't mean everyone is your buyer. Choose platforms that match both your product and your personality. If you hate being on camera, blogging, voiceovers, or YouTube tutorials may be a better fit than TikTok dances. Commit to a platform for at least 30 days before deciding if it works. Consistency and tracking results are key to knowing what's actually helping your business grow.#DirectSales #BusinessGrowth #TheOther99%Podcast #cinchshareThis episode of The Other 99% Podcast is sponsored by CinchShare, a social media scheduler designed for direct sellers and creators who want to stay consistent without the overwhelm. CinchShare makes it easy to plan, schedule, and share content across platforms, all from one simple app. You can upload your own content, use ready to share posts, and access free training and resources to help you show up online with confidence. Try CinchShare free for 30 days and learn more at lisaduck.com/cinchshare. Thank you for tuning in to The Other 99%. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps us reach more listeners like you! Don't forget to share this episode with your network and help spread the word.Subscribe now to never miss an episode and stay inspired in your direct sales journey!Plus be sure to follow The Other 99% Podcast on YouTubeInterested in being a guest? Share your story here✔️ Unlock More Goodies from Lisa, visit

Last time we spoke about the battle of West Suiyuan. The Ma Clique, Muslim warlords controlling Northwest China, led by Ma Hongkui and Ma Hongbin, rebuffed Japanese overtures to ally, citing historical grievances like the 1900 invasion. Driven by patriotism, they aligned with the Nationalists, reorganizing forces into the 17th Army Group. In 1938, Ma Hongbin commanded West Suiyuan defenses, building fortifications in harsh desert and mountain terrain, blending cavalry tactics with modern training despite equipment shortages. In January 1940, Japanese and puppet troops advanced from Baotou, occupying Wuyuan and Linhe. Chinese forces, including Fu Zuoyi's 35th Army and Ma's 81st Army, employed guerrilla and mobile warfare. A major counterattack in March recaptured Wuyuan, killing Lt. Gen. Mizukawa and thousands, forcing Japanese retreat. Through ambushes and night raids, the Chinese recovered territories, securing Soviet aid routes and the Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia region. Over 2,000 Ningxia soldiers perished, their sacrifices underscoring peripheral fronts' role in national resistance.   #200 The battle of Yaoyi Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. After capturing Wuhan, the Japanese army had already stretched itself dangerously thin. Most regular and Class A reserve divisions were committed to the front, yet they failed to annihilate the main Chinese force. Despite losing its core industrial and resource regions, the Nationalist government in Chongqing refused Japan's peace terms. Japan now found itself trapped in the very protracted war it had desperately sought to avoid. The logical Japanese response was to halt major advances, consolidate control over occupied areas, and conduct limited offensives to pressure Chiang Kai-shek into negotiations—essentially repeating the post-Nanjing strategy of late 1937. But the situation had deteriorated sharply: occupied territory had at least doubled, Japanese garrisons were inadequate, and strategic reserves were nearly exhausted. What might have been prudent a year earlier had become plainly unwise by late 1938.   To stabilize the front, Japan reorganized its China Expeditionary Army at the end of 1938. Large numbers of newly raised independent mixed brigades and lower-quality Class B reserve divisions were sent to relieve veteran regular and Class A divisions. The relieved units were either demobilized back to Japan or shifted north to reinforce the Kwantung Army against the Soviet threat.   By early 1940 Japan maintained roughly 24 divisions, 21 independent mixed brigades, and 2 cavalry brigades in China proper (excluding Manchuria), totaling nearly 800,000 ground troops. The enormous scale and expense strained the home economy severely. Even so, the vast occupied zones could not be effectively controlled: divisions often held only a single mobile battalion while dispersing the rest into scattered platoon- and squad-sized outposts. Guerrilla activity by both Nationalist and Communist forces not only persisted but intensified, occasionally clashing with each other in "friction" incidents.   Beyond mere occupation, Japan sought to wear down Chinese strength. With most elite Central Army units held in reserve in the southwest or around Wuhan, Japanese local offensives targeted the Fifth and Ninth War Zones, aiming to methodically destroy Chiang's best troops. Thus, while other Japanese armies focused on garrison relief and brigade substitution, the 11th Army—still holding Wuhan with seven divisions and three brigades—remained the main offensive instrument. In 1939 it captured Nanchang, then mounted major operations against the Fifth War Zone (Suizao Campaign) and Ninth War Zone (First Battle of Changsha). Except for the seizure of Nanchang, however, these offensives inflicted only limited and temporary damage on Chinese forces.   Japan's domestic economy was in even worse shape. In early 1937, it had approved a massive 2.4 billion yen naval and army rebuilding program aimed at countering the United States and Russia, but implementation had barely started when the Sino-Japanese War erupted. The conflict generated enormous war costs while military expansion continued unabated, rapidly draining the Bank of Japan's gold reserves. By the end of 1938, those reserves (valued at just 1.35 billion yen) had shrunk by more than two-thirds. To fund the Battle of Wuhan that year, Japan postponed key elements of the rebuilding plan. After Wuhan fell, the Army revised its wartime reorganization: the original target of forty divisions grew to fifty-five by early 1938, then to sixty-five divisions plus 164 Army Air Force squadrons by 1942. The funding required to equip and stockpile for this expansion escalated steadily; the 1939 expansion budget alone demanded 1.8 billion yen, pushing Japanese finances to the breaking point.   Japan repeatedly sought a way out of China, but its peace terms remained far beyond what Chongqing would accept, leaving negotiations stalled. Efforts to install puppet regimes in North and Central China—culminating in the Wang Jingwei government in 1940—aimed to "use Chinese to control Chinese" and undermine Nationalist influence, yet produced disappointing results.   The 11th Army's 1939 campaigns yielded only mediocre outcomes, hampered by chronic troop shortages. Even its divisions were tied down in occupation duties; mounting a serious offensive required pulling garrison forces, leaving no reserves to hold the line unless new units arrived. Sustained large-scale operations to seriously weaken Chinese strength demanded a major troop increase—otherwise, Japan was limited to shallow, localized attacks. Lt. Gen. Yasuji Okamura, commanding the 11th Army, recognized this clearly. In a December 1939 report, he argued that diplomacy and small offensives were futile and urged a large-scale operation backed by substantial reinforcements. His superiors, however, were preoccupied with funding the broader military buildup and could offer no extra men. The post-Wuhan "defensiveization" of operations was largely a cost-saving measure to support that expansion. Japanese ground strength in China, which peaked near 850,000 after Wuhan, had already dropped by about 50,000. Full-strength regular or Class A divisions numbered roughly 22,000 men (four regiments), while newer garrison divisions had only about 15,000 (three regiments), and independent mixed brigades just 6,000. Okamura's proposal was sensible but politically impossible; high command was even contemplating slashing China troop levels to 400,000.   The Chinese Winter Offensive of December 1939, together with counterattacks at Nanning and Kunlun Pass, inflicted serious losses and exposed the limited damage done to Chinese forces in 1939 operations. The recapture of Wuyuan in March 1940 signaled the start of a new phase. Shortly afterward, intensified Chinese guerrilla raids deep into Japanese rear areas prompted large Japanese "mop-up" operations in southern Shanxi, central Hubei, southern Jiangxi, and northern Hunan. In the Wuhan sector, repeated blows from the Winter Offensive heightened fears of Chinese forces in the Dahong and Tongbai Mountains, which threatened control over the vital Jianghan Plains rice-producing region. In mid-April 1940, the Japanese abandoned outposts at Macheng (eastern Hubei), Fengxin, and Jing'an (northern Jiangxi), withdrew elements of the 6th Division (northern Hunan), 40th Division (northern Jiangxi), and the 3rd, 13th, and 39th Divisions (Hubei), and concentrated them around Zhongxiang, Suixian, and Xinyang for a maximum-effort push.   These setbacks finally forced Tokyo to abandon deep troop reductions in China and approve reinforcements of two regular divisions for a major 1940 offensive. The revised end-1940 target became 740,000 troops in China. In spring 1940, the 11th Army—backed fully by Imperial General Headquarters and the China Expeditionary Army—began detailed preparations for a large-scale assault on China's Fifth War Zone.   On February 25, 1940, the 11th Army issued its "Guiding Strategy for the Campaign." The operational goal was to defeat the main force of China's Fifth War Zone along both banks of the Han River before the rainy season, inflict further heavy losses on Chiang Kai-shek's army through decisive victory, and thereby advance Japan's overall political and strategic position vis-à-vis China. The guiding principle called for the quickest possible preparations, with the offensive to begin around early May: first destroy Chinese forces on the left (east) bank south of the Baihe River, then completely annihilate the core units on the right (west) bank near Yichang. On April 7, under the new commander Lt. Gen. Sonobe Kazuo (who replaced Okamura Yasuji), the 11th Army produced a more detailed plan. On April 10, Imperial General Headquarters Order No. 426 ("Continental Order") authorized the China Expeditionary Army to conduct operations in central and southern China during May–June, even beyond established boundaries, to fulfill current objectives.   Japanese planners viewed the Fifth War Zone—roughly 50 divisions encircling Wuhan—with its main strength concentrated along the Han (Xiang) River in northwestern Hubei. Striking Yichang would deliver a severe blow to the zone. As the gateway to Sichuan, only 480 km from Chongqing, Yichang held immense strategic value: an inland port, Three Gorges logistics hub, and key base for air raids on Chongqing. Capturing it would directly threaten the Nationalist wartime capital and southwestern rear, advancing political leverage. Still, long-term occupation was not pre-decided; initial plans stressed inflicting maximum damage followed by withdrawal, in line with the post-Wuhan policy of avoiding permanent overextension. China, aware that holding the Jianghan Plain's rice-producing areas enabled sustained attrition against Japan, deployed guerrilla units to harass Japanese rear areas (increasing occupier losses) while tasking the River Defense Force to hold key front-line points: Jingmen, Shashi, and Yichang.   To achieve these aims, the 11th Army committed as much as possible of its seven divisions and four brigades (88 battalions total). Core units included the 3rd Division (Maj. Gen. Yamakoshi Masataka; regiments 6, 18, 34, 68), 13th Division (Maj. Gen. Tanaka Shioichi; 58, 65, 104, 116), 39th Division (Maj. Gen. Murakami Keisaku; 231–233), elements of the 40th Division, detachments from the 33rd and 34th Divisions, and others. Reinforcements comprised the Ikeda Detachment (three battalions from 6th Division), Ishimoto Detachment (four–five from 40th), Ogawa Detachment (two from 34th), and Provisional Mixed Brigade 101. Supporting assets included the 6th Field Heavy Artillery Regiment, 7th and 13th Tank Regiments, 3rd Air Group, Navy 1st China Dispatch Fleet, and 2nd Combined Air Team. The China Expeditionary Army transferred seven battalions from the 15th and 22nd Divisions (13th Army, lower Yangtze). The main effort north of the river involved roughly 48–54 battalions, or 80,000–110,000 men, making the Zaoyi (Zaoyang–Yichang) Campaign the largest Japanese operation on the central front since Wuhan. Sonobe's staff structured the offensive in two phases. Phase One targeted the Fifth War Zone's main force around Zaoyang (east of the Han River) through converging pincer movements: right flank from Xinyang (reinforced 3rd Division), left flank from Zhongxiang (reinforced 13th Division), and central thrust by the reinforced 39th Division from Suixian. The plan exploited terrain—Dahong and Tongbai Mountains—for encirclement. After seizing Minggang (right flank) and advancing from Zhongxiang (left), the pincers would close on Zaoyang, with the center (along the Xianghua Highway from Suixian) drawing Chinese forces into the trap for envelopment. Diversionary attacks south of the Yangtze, propaganda hinting at limited scope, and planted false orders helped mask intentions. Japanese radio intelligence—intercepts and direction-finding of Chinese headquarters signals—provided critical advantages, especially in later stages.   By March 1940, Chinese intelligence had already detected the 11th Army's intent to mount a major offensive from Xinyang and Wuhan into northwestern Hubei. On April 10, Chiang Kai-shek telegraphed Li Zongren and other Fifth War Zone commanders, urging immediate preparations for a preemptive strike against any push toward Shapingba and Yichang. He emphasized proactive flanking attacks on Japanese rear areas via Wusheng Pass and threats to the Pinghan Railway, while keeping main forces east of the Han River for decisive engagement once the enemy committed.   Following Military Commission directives, the Fifth War Zone devised a plan that used part of its strength for forward advances and deep raids into Japanese rear areas to harass and divert. The bulk of forces would hold the rear, seizing chances for preemptive strikes and a decisive battle east of Zaoyang or south of Jingmen–Dangyang. Deployments included: the 33rd Army Group garrisoning the Xiang River; in the center, the 45th Corps (22nd Army Group) west of Luoyangdian–Suixian and the 84th Corps (11th Army Group) north of Suixian–south of Gaocheng; in southern Henan, the 30th Corps east of Tongbai and the 68th Corps north of Pingchangguan–Minggang; the 41st Corps in reserve near Xiangyang; the 29th Army Group (with part garrisoning north of Tongqiao Zhen–Sanyangtien) concentrated in the Dahong Mountains; and the 31st Army Group positioned between Queshan and Ye Hsien as the mobile force to strike invaders. River Defense Army commander Guo Chan controlled the 26th, 75th, and 94th Armies, the 128th Division, and the 6th and 7th Guerrilla Columns. Total Chinese strength approximated 350,000–380,000 men across roughly 50–54 divisions. To mask preparations and mislead, the Japanese conducted a late-April "mop-up" near Jiujiang, staged naval feints on Poyang and Dongting Lakes, and bombed key points in Hunan and Jiangxi, simulating an imminent Ninth War Zone operation.   With forces assembled, the Japanese offensive began May 1, 1940, from Xinyang, Suixian, and Zhongxiang. The advance split into five routes: (1) Changtaiguan–Minggang–Biyang–Tanghe; (2) Xinyang–Tongbai; (3) Suixian–Zaoyang; (4) Suixian–Wujiadien; (5) Zhongxiang–Shuangkou. Employing flanking with central breakthrough, the reinforced 3rd Division (right flank, including Ishimoto Detachment from 40th Division with tanks and engineers) spearheaded from Xinyang toward Biyang, breaching the Chinese Second Army front on day one. By May 1, elements of the 3rd and 40th Divisions captured Minggang, Lion's Bridge, and Xiaolintien; on May 5 they took Biyang and Tongbai. The Chinese 31st Army Group (northeast of Biyang) linked with the 68th and 92nd Corps to hit Japanese flanks and rear. Leaving some forces west of Tongbai to press the enemy, the main 30th Corps struck Japanese flanks. After seizing Tanghe on May 7, the Japanese pushed south toward Zaoyang. On May 8–9, the 31st Army Group retook Tanghe and Xinye, pursuing vigorously. On May 8, the Japanese left flank (13th Division) attacked from Zhongxiang, breaking through the 33rd Army front the same day.   On May 3, the Japanese 13th Division—supported by over 20 tanks, 40 aircraft, artillery, and cavalry—advanced north from Zhongxiang, capturing Changshoudian and Tianjiachi. It seized Fengyao and Changjiachi by May 6. Chinese 33rd Army Group forces used favorable terrain to intercept, while the 29th Army Group struck Japanese flanks and rear at Changjiachi and Wangjiadian, and the 41st Corps fought tenaciously to halt the advance. By May 7, Japanese spearheads reached Changjiachi on the Zaoyang–Xiangyang Highway, with elements entering Shuangkou; their rear cavalry took Xinye on May 8. Fifth War Zone commander Zhang Zizhong personally led attacks along Tianjiachi–Huanglongtang, supported by fierce 29th Army Group assaults on Japanese rear.   The Japanese 39th Division and a 6th Division brigade delayed their assault on the Chinese 11th Army Group until May 4 from Suixian. After overrunning Gaocheng and Anchu on May 5, Chinese forces withdrew to Huantan–Tang Hsien–north of Gaocheng. As the 33rd Army Group faltered, part of the 11th Army Group reinforced it; the 175th Division held at Tang Hsien while the main body fell back toward Zaoyang. During the maneuver, Japanese tanks enveloped at Tang Hsien, cutting the Zaoyang–Xiangyang Highway and forcing bitter fighting by the 174th Division. To break out, Chinese abandoned Zaoyang, using the 173rd Division for rearguard resistance while the bulk shifted west of the Tang and Bai Rivers. Japanese captured Suiyangdian and Wujiadien on May 7, Zaoyang on May 8; the 173rd Division suffered heavy losses, including the death of its commander, Gen. Zhong Yi.   On May 10, Japanese completed an encirclement east of Xiangdong along the Tang and Bai Rivers—but it collapsed as Chinese exterior forces outflanked both Japanese wings and compressed the center, trapping much of the Japanese in the Xiangdong Plains. The Chinese 2nd and 31st Army Groups plus 92nd Corps pressed south, 39th and 75th Corps east, and 33rd and 29th Army Groups north against the pocket. The 94th Corps advanced along the Han–Yichang Highway deep into Jingshan, Zaoshi, Yingcheng, and Yunmeng to sever Japanese rear communications. Meanwhile, the 7th Corps and eastern Hubei guerrillas seized Jigong Shan, Lijiachai, and Liulin station on the Beijing–Hankou Railway. The 92nd and 68th Corps retook Zaoyang, Tongbai, and Minggang, encircling four Japanese divisions in the Xiangdong Plains. By May 11, battered Japanese retreated eastward under pursuit, Chinese flanking and rear attacks leaving many dead on the field. The 31st Army Group recovered Zaoyang on May 16. Chinese reports claimed 45,000 Japanese casualties, plus capture of over 60 guns, 2,000+ horses, 70+ tanks, and 400+ trucks. The 33rd Army Group fought fiercely to intercept retreating columns, driving large Japanese remnants toward Nanguadian.   Tragically, on May 16 noon, Gen. Zhang Zizhong—personally commanding his Guard Battalion and main 74th Division—was killed in action. With pressure eased on the Japanese left, they counterattacked and retook Zaoyang on May 17. Chinese forces withdrew to Xinye on the Tangbai River's west bank and north of the Tang River, regrouping for a renewed counteroffensive.   The Military Commission anticipated a Japanese withdrawal to original lines, likely along the rain-impassable Xianghua Road. Exploiting the enemy's supply shortages, exhaustion, and retreat difficulties, it ordered Fifth War Zone units to encircle and annihilate Japanese forces near the battlefield, then pursue toward Yingcheng–Huayuan. The zone promptly launched a counteroffensive. By nightfall on May 8, Japanese pincers neared junction, having inflicted serious damage on the Chinese 84th Army but achieved little else. Nonetheless, the 11th Army ordered frontline divisions to withdraw to the Tanghe–Baihe line after reaching it, preparatory to encircling Chinese forces west of the Han River. Chongqing issued general offensive orders at 8 PM and 11 PM that night. By then, six divisions of the 31st Army Group advanced south from Nanyang in the north, five from the 33rd Army Group pressed from the south, and five from the 45th and 94th Armies pursued in the southeast—nearly completing the Japanese encirclement. Intense combat erupted.   On May 10, retreating Japanese first clashed with the advancing 33rd Army Group from the south. Seizing the moment, they ordered the 13th and 39th Divisions plus Ikeda Detachment south to smash it, with the 3rd Division covering the northern flank. Full-scale battle broke out on May 12: two Japanese divisions assaulted five Chinese divisions of the 33rd Army Group, plunging them into desperate fighting. Japanese radio intercepts—including telegrams between the Military Commission and Fifth War Zone, plus Zhang Zizhong's report to Chiang on his five divisions' movements—revealed exact positions and plans. Sonobe Kazuo concentrated the 13th and 39th Divisions to strike south along the Han's east bank against Zhang's army group, while ordering the 3rd Division (south of Xinye) back to Zaoyang to guard the rear. Direction-finding had long pinpointed the 33rd Army Group headquarters radio (call signs and bearings) about 10 km northeast of Yicheng. With air support, the Japanese encircled it. On the night of May 15, the 39th Division advanced from Fangjiaji and Nanying toward Nanguadian, completing tactical encirclement by dawn on May 16. Artillery-supported four-sided assaults followed. The defending 74th Division resisted fiercely with repeated counterattacks. Fighting raged into the afternoon, with the Special Service Battalion joining. Japanese attackers swelled to over 5,000, backed by concentrated artillery and 20+ aircraft for a final push. Zhang Zizhong, wounded multiple times, continued commanding calmly until a severe chest wound killed him heroically. The exhausted, isolated 74th Division and battalion suffered devastating losses. That day, the 13th Division also routed the main 33rd Army Group force, breaking the southern encirclement. Japanese then redeployed, concentrating around Zaoyang.   In the north, 17 divisions (including six from the 31st Army Group) attacked the isolated Japanese 3rd Division from east, south, and north, severing its supply lines. With limited ammunition and no resupply, the division faced crisis; its 29th Brigade telegram pleaded: "Enemy fighting spirit extremely high... safe return very difficult; request battalion reinforcements." Yet southern Chinese forces remained undestroyed amid chaos. Japanese choices narrowed to independent 3rd Division retreat or holding for relief. They opted to lure pursuers: ordering the division southeast toward Zaoyang to draw Chinese into pursuit. From May 16–18, the 3rd Division fought a delaying retreat; relentless Chinese pursuit inflicted limited damage due to insufficient firepower, allowing escape. By evening May 18, it reached northeast of Zaoyang and prepared offensives. The 13th and 39th Divisions, after defeating the 33rd Army Group, also advanced north to the Zaoyang line.   The 3rd Division's retreat shortened Japanese lines and hastened convergence. Unsuspecting Chinese pursued to Zaoyang. After a successful counterattack northeast of Yicheng, the 13th and 39th Divisions rejoined the 3rd Division there. On May 19 morning, three Japanese divisions attacked abreast, forcing decisive battle along the Tang River. Chinese divisions collapsed within hours; the 75th Army took heavy losses, others significant casualties. Fifth War Zone ordered hasty retreat. Japanese pursued vigorously. By May 21, the 3rd Division reached Dengxian, 13th east of Laohekou, 39th Fancheng. Early that day, the 39th Division—crossing the Baihe—met fierce west-bank fire, losing Regiment Commander Kanzaki Tetsujiro and over 300 men. That evening, the 11th Army halted pursuit, ending east-bank (Xiang River) fighting. The 20+ day operation east of the Han inflicted heavy Japanese losses, far exceeding the planned duration, leaving troops exhausted. After halting, units withdrew to Zaoyang vicinity for rest and reorganization rather than immediate return to base positions. Commanders debated proceeding to Yichang west of the Han: abandoning the plan would signal Phase One failure, eroding authority and imperial trust. Most argued troop fatigue and casualties should not deter continuation. Over 1,000 tons of supplies rushed forward via six motor companies. Following east-bank termination, Japanese consolidated for the next phase targeting Yichang. Reinforcements arrived: the 4th Division from Manchuria and 18th Independent Brigade from Wuning. The 4th Division assumed Shayang–Zhongxiang positions east of the Xiang River.   The Japanese bombarded the west bank of the Han River for ninety minutes before forcing a crossing at Wangji north of Yicheng. That midnight, the 3rd Division also crossed southeast of Xiangyang. Both met little resistance and completed crossings before dawn. The 11th Army left the 40th Division at Dahongshan for rear-area mopping-up and assigned the Xiaochuan and Cangqiao Detachments to guard mobile supply depots. On May 31 night, the 3rd and 39th Divisions crossed the Xiang River at Yicheng and Oujiamiao. After seizing Xiangyang on June 1 night, the main force split into columns crossing westward. By June 3, Japanese captured Nanzhang and Yicheng. The Chinese 41st Corps fiercely counterattacked, retaking part of Xiangyang while its main body battled around Nanzhang; the 77th Corps also struck hard. On June 4, Chinese recovered Nanzhang, forcing Japanese retreat southward. Meanwhile, the 13th Division and elements of the 6th Division forced a crossing on the Han–Yichang Highway near Jiukou and Shayang to link with southern columns for a joint push. The Chinese River Defense Force shifted its main strength to key positions, using terrain to block southward advances. The 2nd and 31st Army Groups pursued south separately. Chinese abandoned Shayang on June 5; Japanese took Jingmen, Shilipu, and Shihujiao on June 6. The 77th Corps and river defense units resisted stubbornly from Jingmen to Jiangling. After retaking Yicheng, the 2nd Army Group continued pursuit. Japanese concentrated around Jingmen–Shilipu as Jiangling fell.   On June 9 morning, Japanese launched joint air-ground assaults from Dongshi to Dangyang and Yuanan. By afternoon, penetrating the Chinese right flank forced a night withdrawal to Gulaobei–Shuanlianshi–Dangyang along the Zu River to Yuanan. June 10 saw Japanese capture Gulaobei and Dangyang, pushing Chinese to Yichang outskirts. After days of heavy fighting and prohibitive losses, Chinese abandoned Yichang on their own initiative. The 2nd and 31st Army Groups then reached Dangyang north of Jingmen. On June 16, they mounted a general offensive. By June 17, Chinese briefly retook Yichang; the 2nd Army Group linked with the 77th Corps against Dangyang, while the 31st Army Group severed Dangyang–Jingmen communications and assaulted Jingmen violently. South of the Yangtze, the 5th and 32nd Divisions crossed to hit Shayang and Shilipu. By June 18, Japanese main force held stubbornly from Dangyang to the Xiang River with superior equipment. Chinese, fighting on exterior lines, formed an encirclement from Jiangling–Yichang–Dangyang–Zhongxiang–Suixian–north of Xinyang while maintaining surveillance. Thus, the Zaoyi (Zaoyang–Yichang) Campaign ended. No prior decision existed on holding Yichang long-term. Per post-Wuhan Imperial General Headquarters policy, even extended operations aimed only to inflict severe blows and erode Chinese resistance, not expand occupation. On capture day, the 11th Army declared objectives achieved, ordering reorganization, destruction of Yichang military facilities, and dumping irremovable captured supplies into the Yangtze preparatory to withdrawal. At 10 PM June 15, formal orders withdrew to the Han's east bank: 3rd and 39th Divisions first to Dangyang–Jingmen to cover, then the 13th Division. The 13th began retreating from Yichang at midnight June 16, reaching Tumenya (10 km east) by 7 AM June 17. Chinese counterattacked along the route; the 18th Army pursued and retook Yichang morning of June 17. Japanese held Yichang only four days.   Intense debate erupted between frontline commanders and Imperial General Headquarters over retaining Yichang. With Nazi Germany's Western Europe offensive underway—Paris fell June 12, the day Yichang was taken—global upheaval intensified Japanese urgency to resolve China swiftly and free resources for wider competition. Many in high command and China Expeditionary Army argued long-term occupation would threaten Chongqing more directly, aid political maneuvers, and hasten settlement, offering immense strategic value. This swayed the Emperor, who inquired at the June 15 Imperial Conference about securing it. Backed by imperial support, high command ordered temporary retention (one month) on June 16. By transmission through Expeditionary Army and 11th Army channels, the rearguard 13th Division had withdrawn 52 km. With 3rd Division cooperation, it reversed, broke Chinese resistance, and retook Yichang afternoon June 17. On July 1, to offset expanded 11th Army responsibilities, General Headquarters transferred the 4th Division from Kwantung Army (Jiamusi, Heilongjiang) to 11th Army control. July 13 orders confirmed long-term Yichang retention, redefining Wuhan-region operations to Anqing–Xinyang–Yichang–Yueyang–Nanchang. The 11th Army assigned: 13th Division to Yichang, 4th Division to Anlu, 18th Independent Mixed Brigade east/west of Dangyang; remaining units returned to original defenses.   Post-recapture, Chinese continued counterattacks on Yichang and rear lines until ordered to halt: "To adapt to international changes, preserve National Army combat strength, and facilitate reorganization, Fifth War Zone cease attacks on Yichang immediately." A stalemate followed along lines encircling Yichang, Dangyang, Jiangling, Jingmen, Zhongxiang, Suixian, and Xinyang. To shield Chongqing and Sichuan, Nationalists re-established the Sixth War Zone (briefly created post-First Changsha, abolished April 1940), appointing Chen Cheng commander-in-chief with 33rd and 29th Army Groups, River Defense Army, and 18th Army covering western Hubei, western Hunan, eastern Sichuan. The Zaoyi campaign thus concluded. Japanese combat power again proved markedly superior. Official Japanese records (11th Army/China Expeditionary Army) reported 2,700 killed, ~7,800 wounded (total ~10,500; some phases ~1,403 killed/4,639 wounded). Chinese admitted heavy losses: 36,983 killed, 50,509 wounded, 23,000 missing (total >110,000 in some accounts). Wartime Nationalist claims inflated Japanese casualties to 45,000 killed/wounded with major captures (60+ guns, 70+ tanks, 400+ trucks), likely propagandistic; Japanese sources show far lower equipment losses. With 56 battalions deployed, Japanese suffered 12–15% combat casualties; Chinese (54 divisions, ~380,000 men) incurred 25–30% or higher—underscoring firepower/equipment disparity. Japan achieved tactical success by securing Yichang long-term (as a Chongqing bombing base) but failed to annihilate the main Chinese force or compel peace. Chinese resistance thwarted full encirclement and imposed attrition, albeit at crippling cost to the Fifth War Zone—severely weakened and never fully recovering until war's end. Japanese aims were realized to a significant, though not decisive, degree.   The Fifth War Zone's operational plan was fundamentally sound. Chinese intelligence detected Japanese intentions early, accurately predicted the attack axis, and deployed accordingly. The plan included preemptive strikes at Wusheng Pass and the Guangshui section of the Pinghan Railway to harass Japanese rear areas, threaten Wuhan, gather reconnaissance, and disrupt enemy preparations. Though well conceived, these actions never materialized. In the first phase (Xiangdong operations), Chinese forces resisted while shifting the main body to outer lines, securing mobile flanking positions. This frustrated Japanese encirclement efforts in the Xiangdong Plains. Exploiting the enemy's retreat, China launched a timely counteroffensive that encircled the Japanese 3rd Division. Despite breakout support from over 100 aircraft and 200 tanks, the poorly equipped Chinese inflicted heavy casualties during the three-day siege, blunting the division's momentum.    On the southern front, the 33rd Army Group's intercepting deployment was appropriate, but insufficient strength and compromised communications allowed the Japanese 13th and 39th Divisions to counterattack decisively, inflicting major losses and claiming the heroic death of Commander-in-Chief Zhang Zizhong—whose steadfast patriotism remains a lasting source of national pride. Overall, Chinese assessments and deployments in Phase One were largely correct. The battlefield showed China retained initiative and was not wholly dominated by Japanese plans. The core issue was overestimation of Chinese combat power amid severe shortages of heavy weapons. At least three corps suffered heavy attrition, yet Japanese captured only twenty-three mountain/field guns. Relying on manpower for brute force left Chinese units critically undergunned, enabling repeated encirclement attempts but preventing decisive destruction or severe damage to encircled enemies like the 3rd Division.   Phase Two, by contrast, was entirely passive. The initial Japanese Han River crossings were largely feints, yet the west bank received scant attention in overall planning—leaving Yichang virtually undefended as main forces deployed east of the river. Post-Phase One, Japan reinforced the 11th Army with three infantry battalions and one mountain artillery battalion from the 13th Army (lower Yangtze), plus six motor transport companies rushing massive supplies forward. Chinese intelligence missed these moves, remaining complacent in expectation of Japanese withdrawal eastward. After regrouping, Japan abruptly pivoted west with rapid advances. The Military Commission and Fifth War Zone, caught unprepared, made frantic, chaotic adjustments that failed to mount effective defense. The loss of strategically vital Yichang was inevitable, complicating the resistance both militarily and psychologically. This stemmed directly from command misjudgment of Japanese strategic and operational aims. Had plans anticipated a westward thrust and retained strong reserves—or detected the 10-day regrouping window to readjust deployments—China could have retained greater initiative, inflicted more damage, and reduced its own losses.   I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. Japan's 11th Army launched an offensive in Hubei to encircle Chinese forces in the Fifth War Zone and seize Yichang for bombing Chongqing. Chinese troops countered effectively, encircling Japanese divisions and inflicting heavy losses, though General Zhang Zizhong was killed in action. After intense fighting east of the Han River, Japanese crossed west, captured Yichang, briefly withdrew, then retook and held it long-term. 

Kristen Wager introduces a new method of monetizing recipes called Recifix and shows us how to build a more stable and diversified food blog business in the face of AI and traffic volatility.   Kristen is a PhD-trained consumer insights leader with deep expertise in the creator economy. Over the past decade, she's led research initiatives at Kellogg's Company supporting top CPG brands like Special K, Cheez-It, and Morning Star. Most recently she built research programs for the top 100 food creators at Raptive where she gained firsthand insight into the food creator ecosystem and the challenges creators face. That experience led her to create Recifix - a cleaner, calmer way to find, plan, and share ad-free recipes, all while supporting the creators behind them.   Relying on Google traffic alone is becoming increasingly risky. This episode explains what is actually changing in search, why AI is accelerating that shift, and how experienced bloggers can build stronger revenue streams that are not dependent on algorithms.   Key Topics Discussed: - Traffic from search is not owned and can disappear without warning. - AI is reducing clicks by delivering answers without sending users to blogs. - Real diversification means adding new revenue streams not just new platforms. - Email lists and direct audience relationships protect your business. - Subscription based models create compounding and recurring income. - Trust with your audience is your strongest long term competitive advantage.   Connect with Dr. Kristen Wager Website | Instagram Recifix - kristen@recifix.com

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In Ephesians 6:10–13, Pastor Jake urges listeners to be strong in the Lord, framing the Christian life as a spiritual battle. He describes believers as soldiers standing firm against spiritual forces that aim to pull them away from God. The strength required is God's, accessed by donning His armor. These attacks are often subtle—gradual drift, quiet temptation, or overwhelming circumstances that lead to doubt or to turning away from God. The schemes aim to separate us from Christ. The message ends with a call to perseverance, emphasizing that through Jesus' victory, believers have everything needed to stand firm. Relying on His strength and walking in His truth, righteousness, and peace helps us endure trials. The goal is endurance, so we remain in Christ when it's over.

Is Bukele a dictator, or is he simply executing the mandate of a population that was previously held hostage by gang violence and state corruption?Joe Nakamoto joins me to separate the propaganda from the facts surrounding the first nation to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender. We examine the on-the-ground truth of what happens when a nation opts out of the broken fiat system and bets on a sovereign future.Moving beyond the headlines, we break down what a functional circular economy looks like. From El Zonte to Livingstone, Zambia, the goal is radical independence, building economic growth from the bottom up. We explore how merchants, farmers, and tourists are keeping value within their own communities instead of leaking it to centralized intermediaries, creating tangible wealth where credit cards and banks were never an option.The conversation inevitably turns to President Bukele and the tension between safety and state power. It is a complex situation that forces us to reconcile our comfortable Western ideals of governance with the raw, utilitarian needs of a developing nation that is finally feeling secure for the first time in generations.We also pull no punches on the surveillance state. With the rise of strict KYC requirements, the core promise of decentralization is under constant threat. Joe and I discuss why Bitcoin companies have a moral obligation to push back against regulatory capture. Relying on peer-to-peer solutions is the only way to avoid the trap of a segmented, compliant financial system that destroys the privacy that makes Bitcoin valuable in the first place.Finally, we talk about the mental leap required to fully embrace this change. The lightning network has made fast and cheap transactions possible, but the transformation happens in the mind. We discuss the difficult process of unlearning fiat habits and training ourselves to price our labor, our time, and our future in satoshis. If you are ready to stop watching the tickers and start participating in the revolution, this conversation is for you. Subscribe for more, share this with a friend, and let us know if you would move to El Zonte. —Bitcoin Beach TeamConnect and Learn more about Joe Nakamoto:X: https://x.com/JoeNakamotoIG: https://www.instagram.com/joenakamoto_Nostr: https://primal.net/joenakamotoYT: @JoeNakamotoSupport and follow Bitcoin Beach:X: https://www.twitter.com/BitcoinBeach IG: https://www.instagram.com/bitcoinbeach_sv TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@livefrombitcoinbeach Web: https://www.bitcoinbeach.com Browse through this quick guide to learn more about the episode:00:00 Intro02:54 What are the requirements for a successful Bitcoin circular economy?05:54 Why documenting the El Salvador Bitcoin rollout is essential for history.10:18 What events would actually invalidate the Bitcoin investment thesis?16:06 How to protect Bitcoin privacy against 2026 KYC and AML regulations.21:16 Will a de minimis tax rule make Bitcoin legal tender in the US?32:56 Is El Salvador safe for Bitcoin tourists after the gang crackdown?43:58 Is President Bukele a dictator or a sovereign Bitcoin leader?1:01:02 How the Zambia Bitcoin circular economy provides a global blueprint.1:13:26 Why is transitioning to a Satoshi Standard harder than buying Bitcoin?Live From Bitcoin Beach

Prayer for Relying Upon Spirit for her Daily Spiritual Espresso published on May 2, 2026 which you can access here: https://powerofloveministry.net/i-used-to-be-so-volatile/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many people love God but still feel unclear in their next steps. Not because He isn't speaking, but because they've never been trained to walk in alignment. In this teaching, we break down what alignment with the Lord actually looks like in real life. Not emotional highs. Not striving. Not confusion masked as “waiting on God.” But a steady, disciplined walk rooted in truth. You'll learn how to recognize God's movement in your life, how to build trust when direction feels incomplete, and how to develop the internal capacity to respond instead of react. This is about becoming the kind of person who can walk with God consistently—not just in moments, but as a lifestyle.   If you want to go deeper: → Join us in Courage Co.-- Where you build the internal capacity to live, lead, and move forward with God. https://julianapage.info/kingdombuilder   ACCESS EXCLUSIVE REPLAYS:  You can access the Full Capacity Live immersion replay and experience the entire day, including teachings, panels, and activations. https://julianapage.info/fullcapacityimmersion   → Live  Masterclass-May 7th : "Raise Your Standards" REGISTER HERE: https://julianapage.info/kingdombuilder

Marketing teams don't need more AI tools. They need better habits around the ones they already have.  Experimentation got marketing teams started, but it won't take them very far on its own. The payoff starts when teams stop treating AI like a side experiment and start using it in ways they can repeat and build on.  In this episode, Drew Neisser talks with Nicole Leffer, one of the most practical voices in B2B AI adoption, about what it takes to make AI use more consistent and scalable. After working with more than 100 companies, Nicole has a clear view of what separates teams that stay stuck in trial mode from teams that build a repeatable advantage.  Three AI Mistakes Marketers Make:  Relying on back-and-forth prompting instead of building reusable workflows  Underestimating what their core AI tool can already do  Falling for hype cycles and constantly switching platforms  In This Episode:  How to build workflows that save real time  The hidden cost of tool sprawl  Where AI security risks are showing up now  How to build AI capability across the team  If you're a B2B CMO working to build stronger AI habits across your team, this episode will give you plenty to work with! For full show notes and transcripts, visit https://renegademarketing.com/podcasts/ To learn more about CMO Huddles, visit https://cmohuddles.com/

Relying on God and His resources to be holy, righteous and good

Why do (senior) executives so rarely hear what they need to improve? I explore this critical leadership blind spot, inspired by a recent article in Fast Company by Dr. Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic and global thought leader on psychological safety, Amy Edmondson. Relying on thought-provoking research amplified by real-world case examples, this episode exposes the invisible barriers that often keep leaders in the dark and offers a toolkit for reversing the trend.From the dangers of hierarchical silence to the psychology of honest feedback, I review practical strategies we can all use including asking focused questions, acknowledging our own blind spots, and separating our immediate reactions from thoughtful reflection. The importance of acting on feedback, no matter how small, is a simple, yet frequently overlooked opportunity. I also share the powerful example of Alan Mulally, one of the most celebrated and respected CEOs of all-time, to highlight how we can transform our cultures from focusing on fear to unleashing our individual and collective potential.For leaders who are hungry to boost their impact and foster psychological safety, this episode is full of actionable advice on creating an environment where candor thrives and teams and leaders at every level can truly grow.What You'll Learn- The benefits of feedback.- What is feedback?- Ask for specifics, not generalities - The power of specific questions. - Reward courage – It's scary to offer someone feedback.- Act on feedback and communicate your changes.Podcast Timestamps00:00 Welcome and Episode Introduction01:37 Today's Topic: The Feedback Gap for Senior Leaders04:04 What Feedback Really Is: The Zenger Folkman Definition05:47 Why Senior Leaders Struggle to Receive Honest Feedback08:11 Strategy 1: Ask for Disconfirming Data, Not General Impressions10:31 Asking Specific, Targeted Feedback Questions12:40 Strategy 2: Separate Ingestion from Reaction14:57 Strategy 3: Focus on Patterns, Not One Data Point17:18 Strategy 4: Act on One Small Piece of Feedback First19:40 The Alan Mulally and Ford Turnaround Story22:01 Red Lights Are Gems: Closing Thoughts KEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Feedback, Psychological Safety, Amy Edmondson, 360 feedback, Self-Awareness, Hierarchy, Power Differential, Leadership Development, Constructive Feedback, Actionable Feedback, Behavioral Change, Barriers to Feedback, Receiving Feedback, Accountability, Alan Mulally, Ford Turnaround, Transparent Leadership, CEO SuccessSource: Why senior leaders get less feedback—and how to change that - Fast Company

FIDO Alliance working on securing AI agent payments Germany suspects Russia in Signal phishing RCE flaw in open-source robotics platform Get the show notes here: https://cisoseries.com/cybersecurity-news-agent-payments-russian-phishing-lerobot-rce-flaw/  Thanks to our episode sponsor, Guardsqaure Is your mobile app truly protected? Relying on the OS isn't enough. A global study of thirteen-hundred security and developer leaders found that ninety-six percent of teams using layered protection reported significantly fewer security incidents. Don't wait for a breach to harden your defenses. Get the protection needed for modern secuirty risks. Learn more at Guardsquare.com.

  Last time we spoke about the battle of south Guangxi. In late 1939, amid the Sino-Japanese War stalemate, Japan aimed to sever China's vital supply lines from French Indochina by invading southern Guangxi. The 21st Army, including the 5th Division and Taiwan Mixed Brigade landed at Qinzhou Bay on November 15, capturing Nanning by November 24 after feinting at Beihai and overcoming scattered Chinese defenses under the 16th Army Group. Chinese forces, commanded by Bai Chongxi and reinforced by the elite 5th Army launched a counteroffensive in December. The brutal Battle of Kunlun Pass saw repeated assaults. However, Japanese counterattacks in January 1940, bolstered by the 18th Division and Konoye Brigade, recaptured Kunlun Pass and Binyang by February, inflicting over 10,000 Chinese losses and forcing retreats. A stalemate ensued until September 1940, when Japan pressured Indochina. Overextended Japanese forces withdrew south, allowing Chinese to recapture Nanning on October 30 and clear Guangxi by November 17.   #199 The battle of West Suiyuan  Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. Back in 1936,  the Xi'an Incident had forced a fragile alliance between the Nationalists under Chiang Kai-shek and the Communists, forming a united front against Japan. This front extended to regional warlords like the Ma Clique, who controlled Ningxia, Gansu, and Qinghai. The Ma family, descendants of Muslim generals loyal to the Qing Dynasty, navigated complex loyalties but ultimately aligned with the Nationalist cause, driven by patriotism and self-preservation.   The stakes in West Suiyuan were high. Control of the region meant access to the Suiyuan-Xinjiang Highway, a lifeline for Soviet aid to China. Japanese occupation could threaten the Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia Border Region, a Communist stronghold, and open paths to Lanzhou and beyond. The battles here, though overshadowed by larger theaters like Shanghai or Wuhan, demonstrated how peripheral fronts contributed to the national resistance. Over 70 years later, the sacrifices of more than 2,000 Ningxia soldiers remain a poignant reminder of the human cost of resistance, their anti-Japanese merits etched forever in the annals of Chinese history.   The seeds of the Battle of West Suiyuan were sown in the turbulent years following the Xi'an Incident. This event in December 1936 led to the initial formation of a national united front against Japanese aggression. The Communist Party of China (CPC) mobilized masses in the Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia Border Region, strengthening anti-Japanese forces and exerting pressure on the Ma Clique. Chiang Kai-shek's Nationalist government also influenced the Mas, solidifying their resolve to resist Japan.   The Ma Clique, a powerful Muslim warlord faction in Northwest China, was led by figures like Ma Hongkui (governor of Ningxia) and his cousin Ma Hongbin. They controlled a semi-autonomous region with a mix of Hui, Han, and Mongolian populations. Japan, seeking to exploit ethnic divisions, attempted to woo the Mas. Even after the July 7, 1937, outbreak of war, Japan persisted. On October 17, 1937, after occupying Baotou, the Japanese established the "Baotou Hui Muslim Branch" and appointed Jiang Wenhuan, a former Hui commander, to court Ma Hongkui. They sent envoys, including an imam from Northeast China, and even airdropped letters from "Manchukuo." In a dramatic move, Japanese commander Itagaki Seishiro flew to Alashan Banner to invite Ma Hongkui for talks. Ma sent Zhou Baihuang, who rebuffed Itagaki by invoking historical grievances: the Japanese role in the Eight-Nation Alliance's 1900 invasion, where Ma family members died at Zhengyang Gate. "The family feud remains unresolved, and the national humiliation is yet to be avenged; they are irreconcilable enemies," Zhou declared.   Japan's plot to persuade surrender failed, leading to a major offensive against Suiyuan and Ningxia. Large numbers of troops reinforced Baotou, and bombings targeted Ningxia. In response, Ma Hongkui began building fortifications in places like Shizuishan and Dengkou. Starting in the winter of 1937, he constructed defense fortifications in the Shizuishan area in four phases. In the Shizuishan Weizha area, trenches several meters wide and deep were dug, covered with branches, straw, and loose soil for camouflage, to prevent the passage of Japanese armored vehicles and heavy weapons. Within a hundred li north of Dengkou and Sanshenggong, all major roads were cut off, and deep trenches were dug to destroy the Japanese army's access to Ningxia. The banks of the Yellow River ferry crossings in northern Ningxia and the Helan Mountain passages were all cut into steep cliffs. Important passageways were fortified with blocking positions and hidden artillery to repel invading Japanese troops.   Among the various military commanders in Northwest China, Ma Hongbin possessed the strongest anti-Japanese spirit. Having joined the army at a young age, Ma Hongbin placed great emphasis on cultural learning and the cultivation of his personal character. Outside of military service, he was always seen with a book in hand, resembling a scholar. His long-term study fostered his upright character and patriotism. After the Japanese invasion of China, deeply moved by the nation's peril, he resolved to lead his troops to the battlefield to save the country from its crisis. In the spring of 1938, at the opening ceremony of an officer training course held in Wanghongbao, Yongning, Ma Hongbin addressed his subordinates from the podium: "Always remember that the nation comes first, the people come first, defend the land and country, and fulfill your duties. On the battlefield, you must be able to both attack and defend, and be prepared to live and die with the position, with the determination to fight to the end."   The Ma forces were reorganized into the Nationalist structure. Ma Hongkui's 15th Route Army and Ma Hongbin's 35th Division (later expanded to the 81st Army) formed the 17th Army Group, with Ma Hongkui as Commander-in-Chief and Ma Hongbin as Deputy Commander-in-Chief and Commander of the 81st Army. The officer training of the 81st Army improved the anti-Japanese consciousness and combat quality of the entire army, preparing for the counterattack against the Japanese invasion. In May 1938, due to the weakened defenses of Suiyuan (at that time, the troops of Fu Zuoyi, the chairman of Suiyuan Province, had retreated to Shanxi), most of the area was occupied by Japanese and puppet troops. The Kuomintang Central Committee appointed Ma Hongbin as the commander of the Suiyuan West Defense Command. Ma Hongbin led his 81st Army and two cavalry brigades and one infantry brigade of Ma Hongkui's troops to Wuyuan (now Wuyuan County, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region) to unify the command of the various anti-Japanese forces that had retreated into Suiyuan West. His mission was to prevent the Japanese army from advancing westward.   After arriving in Wuyuan, Ma Hongbin convened a meeting of commanders from various forces to discuss the defense against the Japanese. The various armies in western Suiyuan were of different factions and not affiliated with each other, and most adopted a policy of seeking safety and avoiding danger in their defenses. Ma Hongbin deployed the main force of his 81st Army, the 35th Division, at key passes in the Wubu Langshan area northeast of Wuyuan to serve as the first line of defense, while deploying three brigades of Ma Hongkui's troops along the line from Wuyuan to Langshan as reinforcements.   The terrain was challenging: vast deserts, mountains like Yinshan and Langshan, and the Yellow River's bends. Wubulangkou, a narrow pass between Erlang and Chashitai Mountains, was strategically vital. Defenses included anti-tank trenches and mines. These preparations reflected the Ningxia Army's blend of traditional cavalry tactics and modern training. The troops, many Hui Muslims, brought cultural cohesion and resilience, but faced equipment shortages—outdated mortars and rifles versus Japanese mechanization.   In May 1938, Ma Hongbin arrived in Linhe (now part of Bayannur, Inner Mongolia) to establish his command post. After inspecting the situation of the friendly forces in the defense zone and designating the defense zone of his subordinate 81st Army, he ordered Ma Tengjiao, commander of the 35th Division, to lead four infantry regiments, namely the 103rd and 104th Brigades, to Suiyuan Western Defense Command to fight against the Japanese. Ma Hongbin established a command post in Linhe, where he and his son, Ma Dunjing, the chief of staff of the 81st Army, deployed their troops in areas such as Wuzhen and Siyitang. Ma Dunjing directed his troops to conduct exercises in the Wuzhen and Siyitang area, and invited Soviet military advisors to provide guidance, preparing for combat with an extremely serious attitude.   To show his support for Ma Hongbin's leadership of the Suiyuan Western Defense Command, Ma Hongkui dispatched two cavalry brigades to Suiyuan Western Defense Command. The main reason why the Ma Clique army from Ningxia went to Suiyuan to fight against the Japanese was that the defense of Suiyuan was directly related to the safety of Ningxia. At the same time, after the Ma Clique army was incorporated into the anti-Japanese army, its primary task was to fight against the Japanese invaders and defend the country. In addition, the anti-Japanese enthusiasm of the people in the Northwest continued to rise. Under the impetus of the situation, it was inevitable that the Ningxia army would join the anti-Japanese war in Suiyuan.   The initial engagement came in the late summer and early autumn of 1939, as Japanese troops, driving cars, armored vehicles, and tanks, advanced from Baotou towards the defenses of the 81st Army in western Suiyuan, attempting to annihilate the main force of the 81st Army. Ma Dunjing (the third son of Ma Hongbin), Chief of Staff of the 81st Army, personally commanded the operation at the front line in Wuda Town. The Japanese advanced to the defensive positions of the 35th Division and bombarded Ma's position with heavy artillery fire. The 35th Division returned fire with 82mm mortars. Because Ma's mortars were old-fashioned, they emitted smoke upon firing, revealing their positions. The Japanese immediately unleashed over 200 shells on the 35th Division's artillery positions, silencing them and rendering them incapable of retaliating. Taking advantage of this, the Japanese, under the powerful cover of artillery and machine gun fire, swarmed in by car, tank, and armored vehicle. The 35th Division held their ground, waiting for the Japanese troops to enter effective firing range and disembark from their vehicles. Suddenly, soldiers of the 1st Battalion of the 206th Regiment jumped out of their fortifications and charged into the enemy lines, engaging the Japanese in hand-to-hand combat. The Japanese were thrown into disarray, some killed before they could even disembark. Those who did disembark suffered heavy casualties, with the remaining soldiers turning back to their vehicles and fleeing in panic. Forced to retreat after suffering a decisive blow, the 35th Division captured two Japanese vehicles, over a hundred artillery shells, dozens of boxes of ammunition, as well as firearms and officer's swords. This marked the first victory in the Suiyuan-Western Anti-Japanese War. This victory boosted morale and public spirit. When the captured vehicles entered Wuyuan County, the people cheered enthusiastically, plastering the vehicles with various celebratory slogans. An elderly local artist even composed a song to celebrate the victory and sang it on the street: "Our old Western Army (referring to Ma Hongbin's 81st Army) is really good at fighting. We drove away the Japanese soldiers, captured cars and brought them into Wuyuan City, where the whole city celebrated and welcomed them. Relying on our old Western Army, we defeated the Japanese soldiers, and the people have peace." The campaign's defining battle occurred at Wubulangkou in early 1940, following the Chinese raid on Baotou in December 1939. In the autumn of 1939, the situation in Shanxi stabilized, and Fu Zuoyi, the chairman of Suiyuan Province who had retreated to Shanxi, led his troops back to western Suiyuan, establishing the Deputy Commander's Headquarters of the Eighth War Zone to unify command of military and political affairs in western Suiyuan and actively preparing for a counter-offensive. To coordinate with the nationwide winter offensive, Fu Zuoyi decided to attack Baotou, a key Japanese stronghold, to contain the Japanese forces in North China. The Battle of Baotou was spearheaded by the newly formed 31st Division of Fu Zuoyi's 35th Army, with the 35th Division of Ma Hongbin's 81st Army providing support. Under meticulous planning, on December 20th, Sun Lanfeng's newly formed 31st Division of Fu Zuoyi's army stormed into Baotou. The Japanese army, caught off guard, panicked and suffered over a thousand casualties, scattering in all directions, losing all their supplies within the city. Fu Zuoyi then directed his troops to withdraw to the rear of western Suiyuan, luring the enemy deeper into the territory for a later battle.   The Battle of Baotou greatly angered the Japanese army. Therefore, more than 30,000 Japanese troops were mobilized from Zhangjiakou, Taiyuan, Datong, and other places, along with more than 1,500 military vehicles, armored vehicles, tanks, dozens of aircraft, and six divisions of puppet Mongolian troops, totaling more than 40,000 men. Under the command of Division Commander Kuroda, they launched a major offensive into western Suiyuan in early 1940, attempting to seize western and southern Inner Mongolia in one fell swoop. Facing the superior Japanese forces, the people and soldiers of western Suiyuan adopted a scorched-earth policy and mobile warfare to maneuver against the enemy. The specific deployment was as follows: the 7th Cavalry Division of Men Bingyue's troops blocked the Japanese troops in the Xishanzui and Maqidukou areas, and then turned to the right bank of the Yellow River to threaten the enemy's left flank; the 35th Division of Ma Hongbin's troops and the 1st Cavalry Brigade of Ma Hongkui's troops constructed positions in the Wubulangkou and Wuzhen areas, blocked the enemy, and then moved into Langshan to threaten the Japanese right flank; the 35th Army of Fu Zuoyi's troops assembled northwest of Wuyuan to launch mobile attacks on the enemy; other units chose favorable terrain to harass the exhausted enemy at any time; and the logistics personnel were transferred to the Dengkou and Shizuishan areas. Before Langshan Mountain, where the Yang family generals once fought against the Jin dynasty, a thousand-mile-long battlefield against the Japanese was set up.   Wubulangkou is located in the western part of the Yinshan Mountains. Nestled between the eastern and western ends of the rugged and precipitous Erlang Mountain and Chashitai Mountain, it forms a strategically vital location. After Fu Zuoyi returned to western Suiyuan in 1939 to serve as deputy commander of the Eighth War Zone, the Ningxia army was placed under his command. At the end of December, Fu Zuoyi's troops stormed Baotou, inflicting over a thousand casualties on the Japanese. Okabe, commander of the Japanese Mengjiang Garrison, considered the defeat at Baotou a great humiliation and declared, "We must sweep through the Hetao region and completely annihilate Fu Zuoyi's army." To eliminate future troubles, the Japanese, "determined to decisively crush the enemy's base in the Hetao region with their main force," began in January 1940, mobilizing over 30,000 Japanese and puppet troops from Zhangjiakou, Datong, and other places, along with over a thousand vehicles, aircraft, artillery, and tanks. Under the command of Division Commander Kuroda Shigetoku, they launched a three-pronged, menacing invasion of western Suiyuan.   On January 31, Kuroda led the main force of the Japanese central route, consisting of over 780 vehicles, armored vehicles, and tanks, and launched an attack at 4:30 PM on the positions of the 35th Division of the 81st Army in the area of Wubulangkou, Siyitang, and Wuzhen.    Ubulangkou, where Ma Hongbin's 35th Division was stationed, is a transliteration of the Mongolian word "Ubulak," meaning "mouth of large and small springs." Located in the southern part of present-day Urad Middle Banner, it lies at the junction of Wuliangsutai, Delingshan Township, and Wengeng Sumu, a strategically important location nestled between two mountains. When the Battle of Ubulangkou began, Ma Hongbin was in Chongqing attending a high-level military conference convened by Chiang Kai-shek, and his troops were commanded by Ma Tengjiao, commander of the 35th Division. At approximately 8:00 AM on January 31, 1940, the Japanese army amassed its forces in the Zaoshulinzi desert area, directly north of Siyitang and directly east of Ubulangkou. Their vanguard first used three aircraft to circling and bombard the positions of Ma's 205th Regiment, followed by artillery bombardment. Under the cover of aircraft and artillery, Japanese tanks, armored vehicles, and hundreds of military vehicles carrying Japanese troops launched an attack on the Siyitang and Ubulangkou positions. Following Ma Hongbin's orders, a defensive trench, 3 meters wide and 3 meters deep, had been dug in front of the 81st Army's position, stretching approximately 10 kilometers from the foot of Wubulang Pass to the north bank of the Yellow River. A 50-meter-wide pit zone preceded the trench. The two sides fought fiercely until nightfall, suffering heavy casualties and remaining evenly matched. At the Siyitang position, Ding Liangyu, the company commander of the 1st Company, 1st Battalion, 205th Regiment, was wounded and died the following day; more than 30 platoon leaders, squad leaders, and soldiers were killed. Xue Wanyou, the battalion clerk, was hit by an artillery shell, his body torn apart and his head severed. Although the officers and soldiers of Ma's 35th Division suffered heavy casualties, they held their ground. Unable to break through, the Japanese used aircraft to continuously release poison gas with the wind at their backs. Although Ma's troops had prepared simple gas masks made of gauze wrapped in sawdust, the concentration of the gas was too high, causing many to experience headaches, chest tightness, and vomiting, greatly weakening their fighting capacity and making the situation increasingly critical. Around 10 PM, Division Commander Ma Tengjiao ordered Ma Jiangong, deputy battalion commander of the 2nd Battalion of the 206th Regiment, to lead two companies from Wulanaobao to reinforce the 208th Regiment via Siyitang. Ma Jiangong was killed by a grenade in the fierce fighting. The two companies fought desperately to break free from the enemy and finally joined up with the 208th Regiment. The enemy, realizing this, reinforced their forces and intensified their attack. At 11:30 PM, the 208th Regiment's position was breached, but the enemy dared not advance rashly. The battle resumed at dawn the next day, and the fighting at the Siyitang position remained extremely fierce. Ma Tengjiao ordered the 1st Battalion of the 206th Regiment to reinforce the Siyitang position. While traversing a seven- or eight-mile stretch of open land, the reinforcements were subjected to heavy artillery fire from the Japanese, suffering heavy casualties. However, the troops braved the artillery fire, bullets, and thick smoke, breaking through the enemy's fire blockade and reaching the position. The combined forces of the Wubulangkou and Siyitang positions continued to inflict powerful blows on the Japanese army. The 205th Regiment, holding the fortified Siyitang, engaged in bayonet fighting with the Japanese army. When their bayonets bent, the soldiers would grab the enemy and bite them, or detonate grenades to die alongside them. The troops had gone two days and two nights without food or water, and coupled with the bitter cold, they were exhausted and suffering heavy casualties. The battle was exceptionally fierce, tragic, and arduous. Ma Hongbin later recalled this battle, saying, "Even the world-famous battles of Taierzhuang and Changsha, where the National Revolutionary Army fought with such heroic spirit, were no more than this."   In the early morning of February 1st, the Japanese army first bombarded the defensive positions at Wubulangkou and Siyitang with heavy artillery, and then used aircraft to dive-bomb the open area in front of Wubulangkou. Under the attack of enemy artillery and tanks combined with infantry, the 208th Regiment suffered heavy casualties, and the front-line positions at Wubulangkou were breached by the enemy. The 205th and 206th Regiments sent reinforcements, using bunkers and high ground fortifications to stubbornly resist the enemy, resulting in heavy casualties on both sides. Seeing that they could not capture the positions defended by the Ningxia army, the Japanese army released tear gas and sneezing gas. While attacking from the front, the Japanese army sent puppet Mongolian troops to flank and attack Wubulangkou from the rear of the mountain. Although the Ma troops resisted bravely, they were ultimately outnumbered, and their positions were successively breached by the enemy, forcing the remaining defenders to withdraw. In this battle, more than 1,000 officers and soldiers of the Ningxia Ma troops shed their blood in western Suiyuan, using their lives to block the enemy's advance.   Ma's troops retreated, pursued by Japanese ground forces and strafed by aircraft, suffering over a thousand casualties and forced to retreat into the desert. They continued to fight the Japanese in the quicksand, killing another 200 enemy soldiers. After a grueling six-day, six-night march, the troops successfully returned to their Dengkou base for rest. Post-war statistics show that Ma's 35th Division originally had over 5,000 men; in the battle of Wubulangkou, over 1,000 were killed and 2,000 wounded, including 700 suffering from frostbite. This battle exemplified sacrificial defense, buying time for counteroffensives.   Upon learning of the defeat of his troops in Chongqing, Ma Hongbin immediately flew back to Ningxia and rushed to Dengkou. After regrouping the troops and investigating officers who had failed in their command, he reorganized two regiments, replenished their equipment, and after a brief rest, led by Brigade Commander Ma Peiqing, returned to western Suiyuan. To cooperate with Fu Zuoyi's troops in continuing the fight against the Japanese invaders, the Ningxia army, mainly composed of the 35th Division, entered the Dala Banner area of Yimeng to fight the enemy. After occupying Wuyuan, the Japanese army believed that the Chinese army in western Suiyuan was in disarray and would be unable to recover its fighting capacity in a short time. Furthermore, due to its overextended battle lines and supply difficulties, the Japanese army had no spare troops to expand the war. Therefore, they centered their forces on Wuyuan, leaving a Japanese regiment and four divisions of puppet Mongolian troops, totaling over 15,000 men, to garrison the Hetao region, while the rest of their forces retreated eastward. After the main Japanese force withdrew, Fu Zuoyi decided to organize a campaign to recapture Wuyuan. In March 1940, he ordered his 35th Army to lead the attack on Wuyuan, while Ma's 81st Army moved from western Suiyuan to the Dalad Banner area on the south bank of the Yellow River in the Ordos League to construct fortifications and block Japanese reinforcements from Baotou. At midnight on March 20, Fu's 35th Army simultaneously launched attacks on Japanese strongholds in Wuyuan, Meilingmiao, and Xingongzhong. After two days of fierce fighting, our army finally recaptured Linhe and Wuyuan, killing Lieutenant General Mizukawa, the division commander of the Japanese army, and several thousand of his puppet troops.    Upon hearing the news, the Japanese troops in Baotou crossed the Yellow River, attempting to outflank the 35th Army from the south. However, their westward advance was met with resistance from the positions of Ma's 81st Army. During the defensive battle, Ma's troops were bombarded by more than 30 Japanese artillery pieces. Due to outdated weaponry and lack of artillery counterattack, Ma's right flank was destroyed, allowing the enemy to encircle them from the rear. To avoid being outflanked, Ma's troops retreated north to the Shawo area to regroup. Ma Hongbin ordered each regiment to exploit the enemy's difficulty in vehicular movement in the desert, employing mobile warfare tactics, advancing when the enemy advanced and retreating when the enemy retreated, maintaining a distance of five or six li from the enemy, and choosing opportune moments to attack and exhaust them. Ma's troops also frequently formed assault teams to harass the enemy at night, keeping them constantly on edge. After maneuvering with the Japanese in the desert for several days using mobile warfare, Ma Hongbin's troops occupied a hilltop southwest of Xinminbao and laid an ambush. When the enemy approached, they unleashed a sudden barrage of fire, inflicting hundreds of casualties. This blow forced the Japanese army to abandon its southern reinforcement plan and retreat north across the Yellow River near Zhaojunfen. After the Japanese retreat, the 81st Army immediately launched an attack on the puppet Mongolian cavalry south of the Yellow River. After more than a month of battles, large and small, except for Chaidengtai, which was captured by Fu Zuoyi's troops, all other puppet strongholds were wiped out by Ma Hongbin's troops, and "the entire Damian Beach area in the northeast of the Ih Ju League was recovered."   During the Qingming Festival in 1940, the 35th Division, returning to western Suiyuan, buried the officers and soldiers who died in the battle at Wubulangkou. With tears in their eyes, people buried the remains of 148 officers and soldiers at the Cemetery for Fallen Soldiers on the west side of Wubulangkou, and erected brick monuments in front of the graves according to the names on the surviving shoulder insignia of the fallen officers and soldiers' uniforms.    Casualties on all sides were significant, reflecting the intensity of the fighting. For the Japanese, two brigades and the 72nd Cavalry Regiment took heavy hits, though official reports admitted only about 1,000 losses. Given that these units were sidelined from combat for an extended period afterward, the true figure was likely far higher. Battle reports from the 26th Division alone recorded over 3,000 casualties, nearly 20% of its strength,pushing the total Japanese toll, including other units, to between 4,000 and 5,000. Puppet forces fared even worse. The "Suiyuan-Western Autonomous Allied Army" proved utterly ineffective, collapsing almost immediately against the superior Ma Clique cavalry of the Nationalist 81st Army. While the puppet Mongolian cavalry had some combat capability, their reluctance to fight for the Japanese—often against their own kin, led to half-hearted engagements and quick retreats. Combined puppet casualties and prisoners numbered around 5,000 to 6,000, bringing the overall Japanese and puppet losses to 10,000–12,000 killed or wounded. The Chinese forces, vastly outmatched in equipment and relying on brave but undertrained local security units, endured heavy sacrifices. Domestic sources estimate their casualties at 15,000–20,000.   This campaign marked the only major anti-Japanese engagement involving people from Ningxia, where over 10,000 Hui and Han fighters, under Ma Hongbin and Ma Hongkui, battled fiercely in what is now Linhe and Wuyuan in Inner Mongolia. Thousands perished, buried far from home, embodying the unyielding spirit of the Chinese nation. It stood as Northwest China's sole battlefield in the war, a point of pride for its people. Victory was hard-won, despite the Chinese having slightly more troops but far inferior weaponry. Success stemmed from the soldiers' bravery, tactical use of cavalry mobility, and crucially, the puppet Mongolians' unwillingness to fully commit. The campaign not only repelled the Japanese westward and southward advances, securing Northwest China's northern gateway and blocking incursions into Ningxia, Shaanxi, and Gansu, but also safeguarded key supply routes like the Suiyuan-Xinjiang Highway and connections to Lanzhou. This ensured a steady influx of Soviet aid, bolstering the national resistance and indirectly supporting efforts in Southwest China.   I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. After a Chinese raid seized Baotou, Japan launched a major 1940 offensive with tens of thousands of troops, vehicles, armor, aircraft, and puppet Mongolian forces. Chinese defenders used scorched earth, fortifications at Wubulangkou, and mobile cavalry/desert tactics, ambushes, and night harassment. Fu Zuoyi later recaptured Wuyuan/Linhe. Casualties were heavy—Chinese estimates 15,000–20,000; Japanese/puppet losses possibly 10,000–12,000.

Relying too heavily on technology can create serious gaps in care and communication with older adults. In certain ways, modern technology is failing seniors and creating new challenges to overcome. How can we address these issues? We spoke with Ashlyn Sidhu about why tech keeps falling short for seniors and the simple, human-first approach that actually works.Ashlyn Sidhu is the founder of Your Senior Tech, an intergenerational organization that helps older adults navigate technology safely and confidently in an increasingly digital world. Through on-site tech support, educational workshops, and scam-prevention programs, she works directly with seniors and senior living communities to close the digital gap using real human support, not complicated tools.Ashlyn leads a student-powered model that pairs high school and college students with seniors, creating meaningful intergenerational connections while delivering practical tech help. Her work focuses on digital literacy, online safety, and access, with a growing emphasis on protecting older adults from scams and misinformation. She is currently expanding Your Senior Tech into a nonprofit to scale its impact and reach more communities.Read more: https://strategicsalesqueen.com/technology-failing-seniors-older-adults-need/Support the showCheck out Strategic Sales Queen for more great interviews, podcasts, and blogs to help you achieve more, faster!https://www.strategicsalesqueen.com/​

Steven Edisis is the Founder & CEO of Dynamic Capital, a revenue-based financing firm that provides fast, flexible working capital, business lines of credit, and financing solutions for small and mid-sized businesses. Driven by a mission to empower entrepreneurs overlooked by traditional banks, Steven launched Dynamic Capital in 2013 to deliver founder-friendly, non-dilutive capital that aligns with real business cash flow—not just credit scores. Based in Miami, Florida, he leads the company's strategic vision and growth while sharing insights on business financing, leadership, and entrepreneurship through his social platforms and The Steven Edisis Show.  With a background that includes education at the University of South Florida, Steven has built Dynamic Capital into a trusted partner to thousands of businesses across the U.S. known for transparent service and rapid funding turnaround.  During the show we discuss: Steven Edisis' background and how he got started in business funding and lending How revenue-based financing works and when it's a good fit for businesses Differences between traditional loans and alternative funding solutions How business owners can access capital without relying heavily on personal credit Key factors lenders look at when approving funding Common pitfalls businesses face when trying to secure financing How to use funding strategically to drive growth and avoid cash flow issues The future of alternative lending and opportunities for entrepreneurs Resources: https://www.dynamiccap.com/ www.stevenedisis.com 

13. GUEST: Simon Constable. Simon Constable reports on rising commodity prices and the energy impacts of the Hormuz crisis. He also discusses Lord Robertson's warning that Britain must increase defense spending rather than relying on America. 132021

You don't need to sell mattresses on your podcast.The idea that you need massive ad revenue or a “buy me a coffee” link to monetize is the exact myth keeping brilliant business owners broke.In this episode of Simplify Podcasting, I'm putting my recovered-CPA hat on to break down the cold, hard math between direct and indirect income. Because if you want to make actual money podcasting, you need to know the difference.Listen to me: Relying on skipped ads and local sponsorships might buy your groceries, but they aren't paying your mortgage.If you want to turn your show into an automated client acquisition engine, you have to adopt my Core Conviction: Sell your own stuff.Today, we are digging into why you only need 100 loyal listeners to start generating real business revenue, and exactly how to walk those listeners through the 5 crucial stages of the Listener Journey.In this episode, you'll hear:The critical difference between direct and indirect podcast income.Why the 100-listener strategy beats the 10,000-download ad trap every single time.The 5 stages of the Listener Journey: from the awkward “Blind Date” to cultivating Brand Evangelists who do your marketing for you.How to align your podcast episodes directly with your upcoming offers so selling feels seamless.Ready to stop burning leads and start making money?I only open a few spots a month for my private Mic Drop Mastery Power Hour, and high achievers don't wait around. Let's get in, cut the guesswork, and engineer your podcast into an actual sales asset. Book your sessions here.There's too much revenue on the line to podcast small.Change your podcast, change your life! Get profitable in PRO!

In this episode, Brooke explores the profound impact of creating an atmosphere where God can show up in our lives. She discusses the importance of belief, faith, and hopeful expectation over mere wishful thinking, sharing practical steps to transform discouraging environments. Brooke emphasizes the power of worship music, scripture, and prayer in inviting God's presence and fostering a spirit of faith. With heartfelt prayer and actionable advice, this episode aims to inspire listeners to persistently seek God's guidance and live with hopeful expectancy. Key Moments & Timestamps 00:45 – Starting the Day: Brooke discusses the critical importance of maintaining focus and belief from the moment you wake up. 02:10 – Changing Atmosphere: Practical methods to shift your environment and regain a sense of hope and excitement when things feel heavy. 04:00 – Tools for Change: Why worship music is a powerful tool to uplift your mood and invite a spiritual shift. 05:30 – Relying on Scripture: The necessity of reading the Bible to find personal strength and divine truth during difficult seasons. 07:15 – Power of Prayer: The physical and spiritual act of kneeling to pray and seeking direct support from God. 08:45 – Support Network: Encouragement to reach out to trusted friends and community when you are feeling down or stuck.     Resources: Building at a high level but craving deeper alignment? The Elite Mastermind is a 12-month, faith-fueled business mastermind for high-achieving women who refuse to choose between business excellence and their faith. Join Kingdom-minded leaders for luxury in-person retreats, monthly coaching with Brooke Thomas, and a powerful network that will expand your vision, revenue, and impact. When you lead with God as your CEO, anything is possible.  Apply at https://BrookeThomas.com/Mastermind    One Day. One Room. One Yes Can Change Everything. Join Brooke Thomas in Dallas on April 23rd for a powerful one-day experience where faith-driven female leaders gather for bold strategy, high-level networking, and breakthrough clarity. When the right women gather, God moves. This event is selling out fast - only 8 tickets left! Save your seat at https://BrookeThomas.com/Dallas    Find Your People. Build With Purpose. Activate Your Impact is where faith-driven women stop building alone and start building together. Access monthly teaching, live coaching, and a network of women who are moving in the same direction you are. This is what keeps you plugged in, growing, and activated between the big moments. Join today at https://BrookeThomas.com/Activate   Building at a high level but craving deeper alignment? The Elite Mastermind is a 12-month, faith-fueled business mastermind for high-achieving women who refuse to choose between business excellence and their faith. Join Kingdom-minded leaders for luxury in-person retreats, monthly coaching with Brooke Thomas, and a powerful network that will expand your vision, revenue, and impact. When you lead with God as your CEO, anything is possible.  Apply at https://BrookeThomas.com/Mastermind    Activate Your Impact! There's a version of you God is waiting to activate. This book will show you how to step boldly into your calling with unshakable faith and build a life and business that honors Him.  Get your copy and special bonuses at https://brookethomas.com/book