Podcasts about securing

We have identified seven members of an anti-Islamic biker gang who oversaw security teams at aid sites for starving Palestinians, run by the controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. Correspondent Andy Verity unearths who they are, what they believe and how their ideology may have fuelled their trips to Gaza. Presenter: Andy Verity Producers: Reha Kansara, Tom Beal and William Dahlgreen Editors: Flora Carmichael and Anisa Subedar

Most people would assume that raising capital for a celebrity-backed business would be a cakewalk, but Thai Randolph knew that was far from the truth. Securing $100 million in investment for Kevin Hart's Hartbeat Productions required more than just a famous name; it took proving real value, building trust, and navigating rejection. Her success led to one of the largest private-equity rounds ever led by a Black woman in the U.S. In this episode, Thai joins Ilana to share the lessons she's learned throughout her career, from her time at Sony, Facebook, and Lionsgate. She also opens up about her personal struggles with fertility while building a successful career and the pivotal moments that shaped her leadership style. Thai Randolph is an award-winning entrepreneur and marketer, and the former CEO of Hartbeat, where she led the company's growth and secured a $100M investment, one of the largest private-equity rounds led by a Black woman in the U.S. In this episode, Ilana and Thai discuss: (00:00) Introduction (01:51) How Thai's Small-Town Roots Shaped Her Path (04:58) Pivoting from Marketing Missiles to Storytelling (09:36) Breaking into Big Tech: From Sony to Facebook (14:14) Balancing Fertility Struggles and Career Moves (22:11) Joining Lionsgate and Meeting Kevin Hart (26:34) Challenges of Carving Out a New Business (28:20) Raising $100M for Hartbeat Against All Odds (32:40) Transitioning to CEO and Leadership Lessons (37:49) Balancing Work, Life, and Avoiding Burnout (41:57) Redefining Your Identity Beyond the Job Title (49:28) Thai's Next Big Ventures and Future Plans Thai Randolph is an entrepreneur and marketer, and the former CEO of Hartbeat, where she led the company's growth and secured a $100M investment, one of the largest private-equity rounds led by a Black woman in the U.S. As President and COO of Laugh Out Loud, she oversees the strategy and operations for Kevin Hart's comedy network. Thai has driven digital transformation at companies like Facebook and Sony, and provided media strategy for top brands like Verizon, Dell, and more. Connect with Thai:  Thai's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/thairandolph Thai's Instagram: instagram.com/thairandolph Resources Mentioned: Thai's Podcast, The Suga: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-suga/id1502324399  LOL Network: youtube.com/@lolnetwork  Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW WAY for professionals to fast-track their careers and leap to bigger opportunities. Check out our free training today at https://bit.ly/leap--free-training 

This week on The Audit Podcast, we're joined by Valerie Zappia, Internal Audit Data Analytics Manager at Victoria's Secret. In this episode, she takes the opportunity to address those unanswered questions and share her perspective on the challenges many audit teams are facing today. She discusses the realities of managing data availability and quality issues, how to navigate the ever-present debate around selecting tools, and what she's doing to upskill non-data auditors on her team. Valerie also shares her thoughts on how internal audit can better align analytics work with the broader strategy and priorities of the organization.   Be sure to connect with Valerie on LinkedIn.   Also, be sure to follow us on our social media accounts on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.   Also be sure to sign up for The Audit Podcast newsletter and to check the full video interview on The Audit Podcast YouTube channel.   Timecodes:   1:31 – Tackling data acquisition challenges 6:44 – Choosing the right tools with insights from a data analytics expert 11:55 – Building data literacy among non-auditors 17:12 – Securing buy-in from stakeholders outside internal audit 25:24 – Final thoughts   *   This podcast is brought to you by Greenskies Analytics, the services firm that helps auditors leap-frog up the analytics maturity model. Their approach for launching audit analytics programs with a series of proven quick-win analytics will guarantee the results worthy of the analytics hype.  Whether your audit team needs a data strategy, methodology, governance, literacy, or anything else related to audit and analytics, schedule time with Greenskies Analytics.

Welcome to this explosive, fact-finding edition of Light ‘Em Up!We're very pleased you decided to join us!With the nation abuzz with the shooting of Charlie Kirk — his shooting recalls a disturbing pattern: Even the champions of “pro-gun” politics are not immune to America's epidemic of gun violence.We've been flooded with requests from our clients to address in-depth Special Event Contingency Planning for Public Safety Agencies — and that's exactly what we are going to do.In an era where public discourse is increasingly polarized and high-profile events carry heightened risk; the shooting of Charlie Kirk raises urgent questions about how we protect both speakers and attendees.This episode explores the intersection of Special Event Contingency Planning and political symbolism, unpacking how public safety agencies can—and must—design protocols that anticipate threats without compromising civil liberties.We examine the anatomy of a well-executed safety plan, the psychological dynamics of radicalized environments, and the strategic blind spots that can turn a rally into a crisis. Whether you're a public safety professional, a communications strategist, or simply someone concerned with the fragile balance between free speech and public harm—this conversation is for you.This episode will provide essential guidance for event planners, speakers and ticket holders/(spectators). This episode is an in-depth, thorough examination of how to keep events like Charlie Kirk's safe, for all involved.Physical Security is the focus of Rizzo's Protective Group, Ltd.As education is always a key pillar of Light ‘Em Up, by the end of this episode if we achieve our learning objectives in full, you will:Understand clearly and be able to:Define what qualifies an event as being “special” and—    Identify for your own edification and knowledge what a special event contingency planning team consists of and looks like.—   You'll be guided in conducting a hazard analysis for a special event.—   You'll hear how the incident command system (ICS) can be used in response to an incident at a special event.—   We'll give examples of special events (providing clear direction on how you must prepare for them as a provider and spectator).Mark my words, clearly, security measures are going to change and change drastically following this incident.Special Event Contingency planning involves creating a formal document with detailed procedures, responsibilities, and actions to address potential emergencies or hazards during a public gathering, such as at a festival, concert, or sporting event.A few of the main aspects, goals and strategies when conducting a thorough hazard analysis are to:—    identify risks,—    develop a response strategy,—    establish a command structure with assigned roles,—    and define communication protocols for both internal and external stakeholders, including attendees and emergency services.—    The primary goal is to prevent injury, suffering, or death by ensuring the event is safe and successful despite unforeseen circumstances.Don't move a muscle!Tune out the world and tune-in to Light ‘Em Up.  Right here and right now!You can listen to us:  on-the-go, at work, home or when resting.Remember that we are here for you and because of you!In a time of uncertainty, facts provide clarity … even if they upset you!This episode is rated “E” for EVERYONE!Tune in and follow our sponsors Newsly and Feedspot!We want to hear from you!

Episode 4822: Securing The 2026 Midterms; Plan To Win 26, 28, And Seize 30

Preview: General Blaine Holt discusses the Pentagon's push to double missile production for potential conflict, noting that US weapon stocks were depleted following aid to Ukraine. He emphasizes the critical need for procurement reform and securing domestic supply chains for materials like steel and aluminum. Holt also addresses the military's shift back to a "warrior ethos" away from "woke" culture, suggesting this change is already leading to honorable resignations and retirements among senior officers. 1958

The biggest security threat isn't in the cloud, it's hidden in the code you trust the most. In this episode, Ron sits down with Varun Badhwar, Co-Founder & CEO of Endor Labs, who shares why research shows that nearly 80–90% of application code comes from open source and third-party libraries, not your own developers. Varun discusses the unseen risks of AI-generated software, how attackers can now weaponize vulnerabilities in hours, and why precision in security matters more than ever. He also reveals how AI can be both the ultimate accelerator and the ultimate weakness in modern development.   Impactful Moments: 00:00 - Introduction 02:00 - Varun's journey from RedLock to Endor Labs 04:00 - Why the software supply chain is broken 07:00 - AI coding assistants and insecure code risks 10:00 - The NPM self-replicating worm discovery 13:00 - Simple controls to enforce Zero Trust in code 16:00 - Pairing AI with security to prevent slop 19:00 - AI-powered security code reviews explained 22:00 - Why 88% of code goes unused 26:00 - Developer efficiency as the new security metric 29:00 - The next wave of AI-driven software threats   Links: Connect with our Endor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vbadhwar/     Check out our upcoming events: https://www.hackervalley.com/livestreams Join our creative mastermind and stand out as a cybersecurity professional: https://www.patreon.com/hackervalleystudio Love Hacker Valley Studio? Pick up some swag: https://store.hackervalley.com Continue the conversation by joining our Discord: https://hackervalley.com/discord Become a sponsor of the show to amplify your brand: https://hackervalley.com/work-with-us/    

Send us a textIn this episode of Joey Pinz Discipline Conversations, Joey sits down with Scott Fuhriman, cybersecurity veteran and leader at Inveri, live from the MSP Summit in Orlando.Scott shares his 25+ years of cybersecurity experience, explaining how Inveri's runtime integrity technology, born from NSA research, helps MSPs and MSSPs detect hidden in-memory attacks, rootkits, and advanced threats that traditional tools miss. He highlights why protecting this overlooked layer is crucial to preserving revenue, preventing churn, and maintaining customer trust.The conversation also touches on Scott's personal discipline journey — from starting as a young PC tech overwhelmed by information to building a career through self-study, mentorship, and consistency. He and Joey discuss how MSPs can choose the right vendors, strengthen their security stacks, and enable long-term resilience in a competitive market.

If Q1 always feels slow, you're planning too late. This is Part 1 of our 2-part annual planning series, where host Jessica Marx (with Brooke Dumas) shares why the most successful 7–8 figure founders lock in their next-year strategy now —not December.You'll learn:Why waiting until December or January almost guarantees a sluggish Q1.How to use 9 months of real data to decide what to scale, stop, or start for 2026.The cash-flow advantage of securing contracts and deposits in Q4.Why your finance team and staff need runway to resource Q1 initiatives.How to review leadership, fractionals, and agencies like a pro sports team roster—keeping A-players, upgrading gaps.Why stepping away from the weeds to plan with peers unlocks bigger, faster decisions.Next week in Part 2, Jessica and Brooke will walk you step-by-step through the 2026 Business Planner, showing you exactly how to run the process yourself.Mini-timeline00:43–01:20 Why we plan in September (not December)03:07–04:09 The Q1 slowdown problem—and how to prevent it05:35–07:38 Securing next year's revenue in Q408:42–11:06 What to bring to planning meetings14:03–16:00 Re-rostering your team for the next “season”18:50–21:13 The importance of stepping away to thinkResourcesDownload the 2026 Business Planner ($100 off to the first 100) or at millionsweremade.comFollow @MillionsWereMade on Instagram for frameworks + strategy tips

In this episode with Stas Levitan, AI Governance Expert & Co-founder @ DeepKeep we dive deep into the wild west of AI security, shadow AI, and the real risks lurking behind your favourite GenAI tools. Stas shares hard-hitting insights on why most companies are blind to their AI usage, and how governance isn't just about tick-box compliance — it's about survival.Here's what we covered:AI Risk Starts Way Before You Deploy It Most think risk begins at runtime. Nope. It starts the moment you grab that model from a repo — and trust me, most are not as “safe” as they look.Shadow AI Is Everywhere Employees are quietly using ChatGPT, Gemini, and open-source models — often with good intentions, but zero oversight. Big risk, bigger blind spot.Guardrails Aren't Optional Anymore Enterprise AI needs serious guardrails — not just generic APIs. Think AI-native tools that track, monitor, and enforce behaviour in real time.LLMs Don't Forget… Ever Feed your chatbot personal data, and you might just see it pop up later — possibly in someone else's output. AI Security ≠ Traditional SecurityFirewalls won't save you here. This is about controlling model behaviour, not just access and networks. Totally different mindset needed.Big AI Providers = Not Enterprise-Ready The default tools don't cut it. The second you fine-tune a model or use it with your data — you own the risk.EU AI Act Isn't Just Hype — It's Happening  Risk assessments, monitoring, documentation — this isn't optional for high-risk sectors. And no, you probably aren't ready yet.Step One: Get Visibility You can't protect what you can't see. Start by discovering what AI is actually being used in your org — you might be shocked. It's a frank and eye-opening conversation that every CIO, CISO, and compliance lead should hear. Tune in — and if you're using GenAI without a plan, maybe… stop.Stas Levitan  can be contacted here •DeepKeep official website: https://www.deepkeep.ai•Stas Levitan LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/stas-levitanThe latest in Data Protection and Privacy Podcast by David ClarkeFollow me on Twitter @1davidclarke 98.6k FollowersJoin Linkedin GDPR Group 30,475 Others Members for FREE CoAuthor of an ICO certified GDPR scheme

Navigating your first home purchase is like stepping into uncharted waters — and for Luisa, it came with extra hurdles. COVID wiped out her savings, property jargon felt like another language, and even her partner questioned whether her standards were too high.What changed the game? The First Home Buyer course.By following the process, Luisa learned how to prepare properly, stick to her checklist, and persist when the search felt overwhelming. The course gave her the tools to understand the system, stay confident, and spot genuine opportunities.That preparation paid off when she secured an off-market property in her dream suburb — without compromising on what mattered most.Luisa is clear: without the course, her story would have ended very differently. For any first home buyer, her experience proves that knowledge, preparation, and persistence are the difference between regret and the right home.Listen now and see how the First Home Buyer Course can help you achieve the same clarity and confidence.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction02:18 – From Colombia to Melbourne: Starting the Journey03:54 – Adjusting to Australia's Property System04:51 – How Luisa and Her Partner Saved for the Deposit08:23 – Why Education and Preparation Made All the Difference15:58 – How Talking to Agents Opened the Right Doors18:12 – Securing the Home and Reflections on the JourneyCourse Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It's the next best thing to having your own buyer's agent. With our expert guidance, you'll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today's podcast, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There's more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

Ty McBride comes from a long line of builders, but his grandfather urged him to forge his own path. Ty initially chased success by landing massive historic preservation contracts, only to find himself running a high-stress, low-profit “train wreck.” A sudden pivot during the pandemic pushed him back to his local community, where listening to his neighbors revealed a massive, unsolved problem: wood rot. This discovery led him to build a new business around a specialized epoxy repair service, turning a simple idea into a highly profitable and scalable national franchise.In this interview with Ryan Atkinson, Ty shares the business strategy that turned his company around. He explains how to dominate a niche business with a "mile deep, inch wide" approach, why true success lies in profitability, not just revenue, and how the "just ship it" mindset is crucial for starting a business. Don't miss these hard-won lessons on building a resilient home services company from the ground up.Takeaways:- Focus on Profit, Not Just Revenue: Build a sustainable business by prioritizing profitability from day one. As Ty states, "Revenue is for vanity, profit's for sanity."- Go a "Mile Deep and an Inch Wide": Dominate your market by becoming a specialist in a specific niche. This focus allows you to build better systems, charge premium prices, and become the go-to expert.- Adopt the "Just Ship It" Mentality: Overcome the fear of starting by taking action before you feel 100% ready. Securing the work first and then figuring out the perfect solution is a powerful way to launch your business.- Listen for Your Biggest Opportunities: Your customers' small, recurring problems can reveal massive gaps in the market. By listening carefully, you can identify a high-demand service that competitors have overlooked.- Big Contracts Can Be a Trap: Chasing the largest jobs isn't always the best business strategy. A model built on smaller, more profitable, and repeatable services can lead to greater financial stability and less stress.- Systematize One Thing Before You Diversify: Master and create efficient systems for your core service before you even consider adding another. Ensure your business can run smoothly without you before expanding your offerings.- Solve the Root Problem, Not the Symptom: A true expert digs deeper than a customer's initial request. By identifying the real underlying issue, you provide more value and build stronger trust.- Use Low-Cost Marketing to Start Lean: You can launch a successful home service business with a small budget. Targeted, "boots-on-the-ground" tactics like designing door hangers and canvassing ideal neighborhoods are highly effective for customer acquisition.- Embrace the Pivot: Be prepared to change your business model. Ty's most successful venture came after a forced pivot, proving that adaptability is essential for long-term success.- Build Your Own Legacy: Even if an opportunity in a family business exists, the greatest growth and fulfillment often come from accepting the challenge to build something entirely your own.Tags: Home Services, Entrepreneurship, Niche Business, Epoxy Floor, Profitability, RemodellingResources:Grow your business today: https://links.upflip.com/the-business-startup-and-growth-blueprint-podcast Connect with Ty: https://www.instagram.com/tymcbrideok/?hl=en

In this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes Mikkel Thorup, founder and CEO of Expat Money, a consultancy helping clients navigate second residencies, international investments, and asset diversification. Known as one of the world's most sought-after expat consultants, Mikkel has lived in nine countries over 25 years and built a portfolio of properties across ten nations. His work focuses on mitigating tax liabilities, creating Plan B options through residency and citizenship, and guiding investors toward secure and profitable opportunities abroad. Jonathan and Mikkel explore how global real estate investing intersects with lifestyle choices, risk mitigation, and long-term legacy planning. Mikkel shares how his early exposure to real estate through his family shaped his investment philosophy, why he avoids debt-heavy strategies, and how he structures group deals to reduce developer risk. He also breaks down the benefits of international diversification, not just in geography, but also in currencies, timelines, and property types. The conversation extends beyond investment mechanics to the lifestyle and generational advantages of expat living, including multi-citizenship for children, cultural exposure, and community building. Mikkel emphasizes the importance of boots-on-the-ground research, building trust with developers and governments, and striking a balance between adventure and security. This episode provides a roadmap for investors who want to align real estate with global mobility, family resilience, and financial independence. In this episode, you will hear: Mikkel's journey from leaving school at 12 to becoming a leading global expat consultant The role of early family exposure to real estate in shaping his investment path Why he focuses on pre-construction and cash buying instead of debt-driven strategies How group purchasing reduces risk in international development projects The benefits of second residencies and citizenship as a long-term family legacy Currency diversification and geopolitical monitoring as part of global investing Structuring investments for both cash flow and capital appreciation abroad The importance of investor tours, trust, and seeing projects firsthand Top markets currently friendly to foreign investors: Costa Rica, Panama, and Paraguay Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: Expat Money website - expatmoney.com Expat Money on YouTube - expatmoneyshow.com/youtube Expat Money's Facebook - expatmoneyshow.com/facebook Find Expat Money on Instagram - www.instagram.com/expatmoneyshow Connect with Expat Money on LinkedIn - expatmoneyshow.com/linkedin Expat Money on X - expatmoneyshow.com/twitter Expat Money Summit - expatmoneysummit.com Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@trustgreene Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/StreamlinedReal Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/TrustGreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Jeremy Barker is the founder and CEO of Murphy Door, best known for transforming hidden doors and space-saving furniture into a thriving direct-to-consumer brand. From humble beginnings to Fortune's Most Innovative Companies 2025, Jeremy has built Murphy Door into the industry leader in functional design and custom craftsmanship.With Murphy Door, Jeremy is redefining what it means to blend utility, aesthetics, and engineering. What started as a bold idea, turning bookcases into fully functional hidden doors has scaled into a multi-million-dollar business recognized nationwide. By combining product innovation with viral social media, Murphy Door has grown from scrappy startup to household name.Jeremy's story blends grit with vision. From serving as a firefighter and paramedic, to living out of his car while learning how to face failure head-on, to now running one of America's most innovative companies, he's proof that persistence and transparency can turn customers into lifelong advocates.Whether you're scaling a DTC brand, looking to harness social media for growth, or exploring how AI and software can reshape customer experience, Jeremy offers an unfiltered look at what it takes to build with purpose and why owning mistakes early is the fastest path to building trust.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:43] Intro[01:16] Turning bold ideas into real products[02:04] Growing sales with early Facebook ads[07:05] Securing patents to gain attention[09:32] Stay updated with new episodes[09:42] Turning mistakes into loyal fans[14:56] Managing expectations with transparency[17:08] Simplifying processes to prevent confusion[19:00] Owning mistakes to improve clients' trust[20:11] Episode Sponsors: Electric Eye & Heatmap[22:52] Leveraging partnerships to fuel growth[24:01] Empowering customers to tell stories[26:42] Rewarding referrals with revenue share[31:12] Learning to test before scaling spend[34:53] Preventing conflicts with partner clarityResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeCustom-built, multi-purpose hideaway doors murphydoor.com/Follow Jeremy Barker linkedin.com/in/jeremy-barker-02007648Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization heatmap.com/honestIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

Guest: Rick Caccia, CEO and Co-Founder, Witness AI Topics: In what ways is the current wave of enterprise AI adoption different from previous technology shifts? If we say “but it is different this time”, then why? What is your take on “consumer grade AI for business” vs enterprise AI? A lot of this sounds a bit like the CASB era circa 2014. How is this different with AI?  The concept of "routing prompts for risk and cost management" is intriguing. Can you elaborate on the architecture and specific AI engines Witness AI uses to achieve this, especially for large global corporations?  What are you seeing in the identity space for AI access? Can you give us a rundown of the different tradeoffs teams are making when it comes to managing identities for agents?  Resources: EP226 AI Supply Chain Security: Old Lessons, New Poisons, and Agentic Dreams EP173 SAIF in Focus: 5 AI Security Risks and SAIF Mitigations EP84 How to Secure Artificial Intelligence (AI): Threats, Approaches, Lessons So Far Witness AI blog Shadow Agents: A New Era of Shadow AI Risk in the Enterprise Blocking shadow agents won't work. Here's a more secure way forward Shadow AI Strikes Back: Enterprise AI Absent Oversight in the Age of Gen AI Cloud CISO Perspectives: How Google secures AI Agents “The Soul of a New Machine” book Emoji Attack: A Method for Misleading Judge LLMs in Safety Risk Detection  

In this episode, host Etienne Nichols sits down with Jose Bohorquez and Mohamad Foustok from CyberMed to dissect the complex world of Software as a Medical Device (SaMD) and cybersecurity. They emphasize that SaMD is first and foremost a medical device and should be treated as such from the very beginning of the development process. The conversation highlights the most common mistakes companies make, like treating security as an afterthought and jumping straight into coding without a solid architectural plan.Mohamad Foustok introduces the concept of "zero trust" and the critical importance of designing for security across the entire product lifecycle, from initial concept to post-market surveillance. The discussion clarifies that cybersecurity is not limited to network-connected devices but applies to any medical device with a software function, regardless of its connectivity. They also touch on the historical context of FDA guidance, noting a significant shift in recent years that has raised the regulatory bar and put a greater emphasis on robust cybersecurity documentation.The guests provide actionable advice for MedTech professionals, stressing the value of a balanced approach that integrates security and functionality from day one. They explain that a well-thought-out process, though seemingly slower at the outset, ultimately saves time and resources by preventing costly and time-consuming redesigns later on. This episode serves as a vital guide for anyone looking to build a secure and compliant medical device in today's evolving regulatory landscape.Key Timestamps[01:50] Common pitfalls in developing SaMD, including overlooking regulatory guidance like IEC 62304.[03:20] The critical mistake of treating cybersecurity as an afterthought in product development.[05:00] Who cybersecurity applies to beyond software, including patients, manufacturers, and supply chains.[06:30] The FDA's stance on cybersecurity for any device with a software function, even if not network-connected.[08:00] A discussion on "reasonable assurance of cybersecurity" and what it means for manufacturers.[10:00] The "zero trust" principle and why you should never assume a network is secure.[14:00] How hospitals and other stakeholders are demanding more rigorous cybersecurity standards.[15:40] The ideal process for a "security-first" development lifecycle.[21:00] Why rushing development without a proper architecture can lead to significant delays and cost overruns.[23:00] A brief history of FDA's cybersecurity guidance and the major shift in 2023.Quotes"Software as a medical device ultimately is a medical device, and so you want to be developing it from the get-go with that mindset." — Jose Bohorquez"Security can't be an afterthought. You have to consider security at the inception of your approach to a product." — Mohamed FustokTakeawaysA "Security-First" Mindset is Essential: Integrate cybersecurity from the initial architectural phase of your project. This proactive approach saves significant time and money by avoiding costly redesigns and delays later in the development process or after an FDA submission.Cybersecurity is for All Software-Driven Devices: Don't assume that only cloud-connected devices need cybersecurity documentation. The FDA requires documentation for any device with a software function, including embedded systems and programmable logic, even if it's not connected to a network.Regulatory Compliance is a Process, Not a...

South Africa has become a global leader in agricultural biotechnology – ranking eighth worldwide in biotech crop production. With adoption rates of 87% for maize, 95% for soybean, and 100% for cotton, farmers are proving the value of genetically engineered crops in the face of climate stress, pests, and rising costs.In this episode, Kerry Rowlands, field agronomist at Pannar Seed, explains how biotech crops are boosting productivity, profitability, and sustainability. From insect resistance and herbicide tolerance to stacked traits and new advances like drought tolerance, Kerry breaks down the science, the safety checks, and the stewardship practices that make this technology so powerfu

Interview Date: February 2nd, 2025Episode Summary:Jason Pickett, a dance educator, choreographer, and the creator of the No Starving Artists brand. Jason shares his unique journey, from starting his dance career at 14 by self-teaching and getting inspired by YouTube and movies, to now traveling the world teaching at conventions and judging competitions.He emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships, networking, and having a clear personal brand. He shares lessons learned from his own experience, such as the significance of embracing a bold, confident approach and trusting the process.Jason also discusses how his background in marketing has shaped his approach to content creation, stressing the need for consistency and authenticity. Towards the end of the episode, Jason offers valuable advice to dancers, including the importance of embracing freestyle, making connections with others, and constantly pushing forward. Show Notes:(0:00) Introduction to Jason's dance journey (3:00) Starting dance at 14 and self-teaching (6:30) Early inspirations: YouTube, music videos, and Stomp the Yard (10:00) Teaching at 16 and growing a hip-hop program (13:00) Building connections and transitioning to professional gigs(17:00) Content creation's role in Jason's career (21:30) Securing teaching gigs at conventions (25:00) How networking and mentorship opened doors (30:00) Full-time teaching and judging at conventions worldwide (34:00) Using videography to expand his reach(38:00) Building a personal brand for success (42:00) Consistency in social media content creation (46:00) The importance of having an opinion and clear audience (50:30) Balancing work, family, and content creation (55:00) Authenticity in building trust with followers(58:30) Lessons learned from setbacks (1:03:00) Using AI in dance business and content creation (1:07:30) Advice for dancers navigating the industry (1:10:00) Jason's vision for No Starving Artists' future (1:12:00) Final thoughts on relationships, challenges, and staying authenticBiography:Professional dance educator, choreographer, adjudicator and international artist, Jason Pickett strives to help dancers grow to the next level of their artistic journey.With over a decade of performance, choreography and teaching experience, the Utah native has performed live on shows like Americas Got Talent, collaborated with global brands Hermès, Icon Fitness, Toys-R-Us, Crocs, Bud Light and more, and been featured in viral YouTube videos Stormtrooper Twerk and High School Dance Battle – Geeks vs. Cool Kids! (4k), just to name a few.In addition, Pickett has toured internationally throughout Germany and Israel with Odyssey Dance Theatre as company artist. Jason Pickett is the creator and host of No Starving Artists - a dance media company that provides mentoring, coaching & peak performance strategy to dancers, parents & teachers & is currently a full time faculty member with Reinforce Dance Experience.Connect on Social Media:https://www.instagram.com/heyitspicketthttps://www.facebook.com/jasonpickettdance

Securing a publishing deal takes more than a 'cool' game idea. It requires evidence of a marketable game, an engaged audience, and a capable team. This talk explores how data-driven development can support these three pillars: improving game quality through player data and player-centered design; using data to build and engage your player community early; and demonstrating team readiness through informed decision-making. Attendees will gain practical strategies for aligning development with publishing expectations.

The Bledisloe Cup is safe for another year. The All Blacks' last remaining major trophy remains in their hands after a 33-24 win over the Wallabies at Eden Park, clinched by a late Cam Roigard try. All Blacks assistant coach Tamati Ellison joined Piney to discuss. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to another episode of the Microsoft Cloud IT Pro Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into one of Microsoft Purview's AI monitoring and protection capabilities: Data Security Posture Management (DSPM) for AI - your secret weapon for monitoring and securing AI usage across your organization. Your support makes this show possible! Please consider becoming a premium member for access to live shows and more. Check out our membership options. Show Notes Learn about Data Security Posture Management Learn about Data Security Posture Management (DSPM) for AI Governing AI Shadow IT with the Microsoft Purview Browser Extension Get started with the Microsoft Purview extension for Chrome Considerations for DSPM for AI to manage data security and compliance protections for AI interactions Learn about Microsoft Purview billing models List of AI sites supported by Microsoft Purview Data Security Posture Management for AI About the sponsors Would you like to become the irreplaceable Microsoft 365 resource for your organization? Let us know!

Cipher Mining (CIFR) reached a 10-year, $3 billion agreement with Fluidstack to enhance the company's data centers in Texas. Jeff Pierce adds that Cipher's connection to Alphabet (GOOGL) gives it more of an edge but points to a $800 million private offering of convertible notes as a potential reason for selling action off its all-time high.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day. Subscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/ About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

In this episode, we speak with Silvia Pugliese and Monica Larrazabal, co-founders of Norma and the only all-female founding team among the c.150 direct air capture startups operating today. They share how their breakthrough supercapacitor approach could drastically slash the energy requirements of carbon capture.Pugliese and Larrazabal discuss:How they discovered a way to "cheat" on energy requirements by combining supercapacitor energy storage technology with CO2 capture, creating a hybrid device that recycles energy through each capture cycle.Their modular approach with desk-sized units that can be deployed anywhere, contrasting with competitors' massive industrial facilities requiring hundreds of millions in funding.The company's measured approach to cost projections, deliberately avoiding the over-promising that has plagued the DAC industry, while still targeting dramatic improvements over current $600-1000 per tonne costs.Securing pre-seed funding led by Contrarian VC, known for rigorous DAC due diligence, and landing MilkyWire as their first commercial client despite being in early development stages.Their 2025-2030 roadmap: pilot testing in 2026, first commercial facility by 2029, and targeting megatonne-scale operations by 2030.How airlines could use their CO2 for e-fuel production, with potential applications ranging from direct air capture and storage to point source capture, leveraging the technology's versatility.The founders also discuss the challenges of being female entrepreneurs in a male-dominated deep tech sector, their base in central Paris near the Marie Curie museum, and their vision of normalising female-led climate tech companies by 2035.Larrazabal explains why the DAC industry is in its "innovation decade" similar to renewable energy in the 1960s-70s, and why they believe they've found the "solar PV moment" for carbon capture.Learn more about the innovators who are navigating the industry's challenges to make sustainable aviation a reality, in our new book 'Sustainability in the Air: Volume 2'. Click here to learn more.Feel free to reach out via email to podcast@simpliflying.com. For more content on sustainable aviation, visit our website green.simpliflying.com and join the movement. It's about time.Links & more:NormaContrarian VCMilkyWireHeirloom Carbon (Monica's former employer)Marble - Climate Tech Accelerator (where Norma was incubated)

Learn how to balance AI innovation with risk management in this episode of AWS Executive Insights, featuring Adam Marré, CISO at Arctic Wolf. Drawing from his unique background spanning everything from the US Army, to video game design at Disney Interactive, to FBI cybercrime investigations, Marré shares his perspective on building next-generation security operations and navigating AI security controls in today's threat landscape. He offers advice for translating security risk into business language, managing third-party risk, and implementing AI-powered security operations without replacing human judgment. Marré also discusses the value of building more diverse security teams through programs like Tech-Moms. This conversation is essential listening for security leaders navigating the intersection of AI innovation, talent development, and enterprise risk management.

In this Roofing Road Trips® episode, Karen Edwards is joined by Mike Ippoliti with Leap to talk about the growing risks contractors face when it comes to their business data and what to look for in a secure CRM. They discuss why it is so important to own and control your data, the red flags to watch for in CRM platforms, and how data exposure can impact your reputation and operations. Mike also shares how Leap CRM is built to keep contractor and customer data safe through features that give you full control. If you are unsure how your current CRM handles your data, this episode will help you ask the right questions and understand what a secure system really looks like. Learn more at RoofersCoffeeShop.com! https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/   Are you a contractor looking for resources? Become an R-Club Member today! https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/rcs-club-sign-up   Sign up for the Week in Roofing! https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/sign-up     Follow Us!   https://www.facebook.com/rooferscoffeeshop/   https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooferscoffeeshop-com   https://x.com/RoofCoffeeShop   https://www.instagram.com/rooferscoffeeshop/   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAQTC5U3FL9M-_wcRiEEyvw   https://www.pinterest.com/rcscom/   https://www.tiktok.com/@rooferscoffeeshop   https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/rss     #LeapToDigital #RoofersCoffeeShop #MetalCoffeeShop #AskARoofer #CoatingsCoffeeShop #RoofingProfessionals #RoofingContractors #RoofingIndustry 

In today's episode of iGaming Daily, SBC Media Manager Charlie Horner is joined by Stephanie Trinh, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Sift, as the duo explore the escalating challenges of fraud in iGaming, from promo abuse and VIP player management to the latest identity intelligence solutions that help operators balance growth, compliance, and trust.Tune in to today's episode to find out:How iGaming fraud is evolving and why operators face more than 10 different fraud vectors today.The true cost of promo abuse and fraudulent accounts, with billions in potential revenue at stake.Why traditional “blunt force” fraud tools can stifle growth and how operators can refine their approach.How Sift's identity intelligence and player intent technology accelerates trust while protecting VIP experiences.The intersection of fraud prevention and responsible gambling, and strategies for safe, automated operations.Host: Charlie HornerGuest: Stephanie TrinhProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor: Anaya McDonaldiGaming Daily is also now on TikTok. Make sure to follow us at iGaming Daily Podcast (@igaming_daily_podcast) | TikTok for bite-size clips from your favourite podcast.Finally, remember to check out Optimove at https://hubs.la/Q02gLC5L0 or go to Optimove.com/sbc to get your first month free when buying the industry's leading customer-loyalty service.

Today, we'll be discussing how to secure your workplace, even if your employer doesn't want to.

Episode 186: Automate Your Lead Generation with our FREE online course: https://go.digitaltrailblazer.com/auto-leads-course-freeOnline business owners face a major credibility gap when trying to reach new audiences. Unlike established brands, coaches and course creators starting from scratch must prove their expertise to complete strangers who have no reason to trust them. This makes it incredibly difficult to convert prospects into paying clients, especially for high-ticket services where trust is essential.In this episode, Melissa Guenette teaches us how to leverage mass media appearances to instantly gain credibility and reach pre-warmed audiences. She reveals how to create professional media kits, secure spots on local TV shows and podcasts, prepare for both short 5-minute segments and longer interviews, and most importantly, how to convert these appearances into actual leads and sales by maximizing the content before, during, and after each media opportunity.About Melissa Guenette: Melissa is a media strategist, entrepreneur, and fashion stylist with a passion for helping people and brands get seen, heard, and remembered. As the founder and CEO of A-List Media Solutions, Melissa works with entrepreneurs, authors, and thought leaders to amplify their visibility through strategic media placements, personal branding, and compelling storytelling.With over 20 years experience in the industry, Melissa founded and grew MG Social into one of Canada's top PR and social media firms, which she eventually sold. She also created SPED My City, a project that blends advocacy with brand empowerment. As a fashion stylist and image consultant, Melissa also helps professionals and public figures align their outward appearance with their message and mission.Whether she's styling a client, landing a front-page feature, or emceeing a live event, Melissa brings energy, strategy, and heart to everything she does.Connect with Melissa:Email: media@alistmediasolutions.com https://www.alistmediasolutions.com/ https://www.facebook.com/AListMediaSolution https://www.instagram.com/alistmediasolutions/Want to SCALE your online business bigger and faster without the endless hustle of networking, referrals, and pumping out content that nobody sees?Grab our Ultimate Ad Script for Coaches, Agencies, and Course Creators.Learn the exact 5-step script we teach our clients that allows them to generate targeted, high-quality leads at ultra-low cost, so you can land paying customers and clients without breaking the bank on ad spend. Grab the Ultimate Ad Script right HERE - https://join.digitaltrailblazer.com/ultimate-ad-script✅ Connect With Us:Website - https://DigitalTrailblazer.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/digitaltrailblazerTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@digitaltrailblazerTwitter: https://twitter.com/DgtlTrailblazerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/DigitalTrailblazer

Wil talks with Anthony Hamilton of Icon Group Hospitality about building people-first restaurant businesses that last. They riff on digital minimalism (Wil's flip phone!), presence with family, and the hard edges of hospitality—burnout, 24/7 crises, substance abuse—then pivot to how thoughtful leadership, balance, and systems can make the work sustainable. Anthony traces his path from CIA-trained chef to operator/educator to acquiring legacy independent brands and venues, explaining creative deal structures, venue-first catering strategy, and a culture that prizes productivity over performative “grind.” The throughline: lead with hospitality, invest in people, use simple tech well, and protect the soul of beloved neighborhood institutions.Key takeaways Presence beats obsession: Ditching always-on smartphones can reduce noise and make you a better leader, parent, and human. Hospitality is holistic: Mental health, family time, and modeling balance are part of the job, not perks. People > spreadsheets: “Internal customers” (your team) drive guest experience; treat them with autonomy, flexibility, and respect. Productivity > hours: Question 50+ hour weeks; manage to outcomes, not optics. Predictive labor wins: Forecast sales, schedule to targets, and adjust—don't try to “cut” your way out after the fact. Simple tech scales: Use lightweight tools (like scheduling/communications) your staff actually adopts; avoid bells-and-whistles bloat. Legacy brand stewardship: When buying independents, preserve what locals love while modernizing ops; owners are often the brand—honor that story. Creative deals keep doors open: Mix owner financing, profit-sharing, and note-holding to match seller needs and protect cash. Venue-first catering strategy: Securing exclusive/long-term venue leases reliably feeds the catering pipeline. Unreasonable touches pay back: Small, thoughtful gestures (a $60 video game + handwritten note) can lock in lifelong clients. Turnover is expensive: Retention beats replacement—paying an extra $0.50–$1/hour can save thousands in churn costs. Lead by example: Owners will always care most; don't expect staff to out-hustle you—set the standard and the tone.

Aditya Vasudevan, Cohesity's cyber recovery expert, shares battle-tested insights from defending Fortune 100 companies against AI-powered cyberattacks.Topics Include:Cohesity protects 85% of Fortune 100 data with battle-tested cyber recovery experienceTop 10 cyber adversaries target organizations; Cohesity has defended against most major threatsGenAI adopted by 100 million users in two months, creating unprecedented security challengesNew AI threats include prompt injection, synthetic identities, shadow AI, and supply vulnerabilitiesAttackers now use AI for sophisticated phishing, automated malware, and accelerated attack chainsReal companies completely banned AI after code leaks, misuse incidents, and data concernsThree-pillar security approach: fight AI with AI, enhanced training, and automated workflowsSecure AI design requires private deployments, complete traceability, and role-based access controlsAmazon Bedrock offers built-in guardrails, private VPCs, and enterprise monitoring capabilitiesCohesity's Gaia demonstrates secure AI with RAG architecture and permission-aware data accessResilience strategy combines immutable backups, anomaly detection, and recovery automation for incidentsProper AI security reduces cyber insurance premiums and prevents costly downtime disastersParticipants:Aditya Vasudevan - GVP of Cyber Resiliency, Cohesity Further Links:Cohesity: Website | LinkedIn | AWS MarketplaceSee how Amazon Web Services gives you the freedom to migrate, innovate, and scale your software company at https://aws.amazon.com/isv/

eir evo has announced its successful award of the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO) Satellite Connectivity Tender. The announcement was made at the National Ploughing Championships in Tullamore, where key stakeholders gathered to mark a major milestone in Ireland's digital infrastructure strategy. Under the seven-year contract, eir evo will deliver satellite connectivity to an initial 21 sites, with the potential to scale to 300 locations. The initiative is designed to enhance the resilience of public services in remote and island communities, particularly in response to significant climate-related disruptions such as Storm Éowyn. Deployment will begin with island locations, including Inishturk, where the OGCIO and healthcare teams are already engaged in rollout planning. The satellite network will serve as a critical backup to terrestrial telecoms, supporting emergency services, healthcare continuity and local hubs in areas where traditional infrastructure is vulnerable or unavailable. As part of the agreement, eir evo has partnered with Eutelsat to deliver satellite services to the Irish Government. The OGCIO contract ensures that eir evo is the channel for delivering Eutelsat satellite services to Government entities in Ireland. Eutelsat's European footprint and advanced satellite capabilities bring technological excellence to the partnership, positioning Ireland at the forefront of resilient digital infrastructure in Europe. Susan Brady, Managing Director of eir evo, commented: "Storm Éowyn was a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by our remote communities. At eir evo, we believe connectivity is not just about access, it's about resilience, continuity and safety. Securing the OGCIO Satellite Connectivity partnership is a proud moment for us. It reflects our commitment to building infrastructure that can withstand the challenges of climate change and support critical public services when they're needed most." Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers, welcomed the announcement, saying: "I think it is particularly appropriate that we are making this announcement here at the National Ploughing Championships, which of course is not just a celebration of rural life and culture in Ireland but also an opportunity to explore the latest innovations that are already transforming the industry and will continue to support the future of agriculture. "Initiatives such as the high-speed network and satellite services and the new data centre in Backweston will help us transform our public services by ensuring they have the modern infrastructure they need to work securely and reliably, no matter where people live or what challenges arise. "The new National Low Latency Platform is a secure, high-speed network connecting government bodies across Ireland and is now fully operational. Funded through the EU's Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), the network stretches from Westport to Waterford, and Cork to Dundalk, helping public services work faster and more reliably." Minister of State with special responsibility for Public Procurement, Digitalisation and eGovernment, Emer Higgins, also attended the launch of the new technology and said: "These projects are about building strong foundations for Ireland's future. Our emergency services do a fantastic job in circumstances that can be very challenging. I am delighted to announce the delivery of the new high speed, secure communications network which will ensure emergency teams can stay connected in the most remote areas, helping people stay safe especially during bad weather or emergencies." Cyril Dujardin, President of the Connectivity Business Unit at Eutelsat, said: "Together with our partner eir evo, we are strengthening Ireland's communications backbone with the resilience of our OneWeb constellation. This capability ensures that emergency services, healthcare providers and community hubs ...

Securing properties that already have tenants can often involve layers of complexity, from navigating existing lease agreements to building rapport with residents. In this quick yet insightful episode, Mr. TTP, Brent Daniels, lays out a clear master plan on how to approach negotiations, communicate effectively, and ultimately strike a win-win deal with the tenantsFor more REI tips make sure to join the TTP Training Program.---------Show notes:(0:55) Beginning of today's episode(1:30) Cash for keys(3:00) In REI 80% of the deals you do comes from investors(4:34) The property needs to be bought cash because of the condition----------Resources:To speak with Brent or one of our other expert coaches call (281) 835-4201 or schedule your free discovery call here to learn about our mentorship programs and become part of the TribeGo to Wholesalingincgroup.com to become part of one of the fastest growing Facebook communities in the Wholesaling space. Get all of your burning Wholesaling questions answered, gain access to JV partnerships, and connect with other "success minded" Rhinos in the community.It's 100% free to join. The opportunities in this community are endless, what are you waiting for?

In this week's episode of the Profit Cleaners podcast, Brandon Schoen and Brandon Condrey—joined by Ty Shiffler on marketing—share practical strategies for overcoming common challenges while building a profitable cleaning business.From resolving team conflicts and strengthening leadership skills to navigating Google's latest AI-driven ad changes, this session covers both the operational and marketing aspects of growth. They discuss proven wins, including how to secure recurring clients quickly, when to launch a second team, and the right way to expand into new markets without overextending resources.They also highlight real-world solutions to everyday issues, from hiring quality employees to preventing streaks on hardwood floors. Whether you're managing HR challenges, evaluating software tools, or considering new marketing investments, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you scale sustainably and profitably.Listen now to gain proven insights on leadership, growth strategies, and operational excellence.

Illinois chief development officer Howard Milton joins Illini Inquirer's Jeremy Werner to discuss the process of securing a $100 million gift from Larry Gies for the football program, the impact on the athletics program and the hope for Memorial Stadium upgrades. Kyle Tausk then joins Werner to discuss Illinois basketball's latest recruiting efforts, including 2026 official visitors Cameron Holmes and Sinan Huan and in-state prospects Jaxson Davis (2027) and Brady Pettigrew. The guys then discuss their questions entering the start of fall practices for Brad Underwood's team. Follow the Illini Inquirer Podcast on: Apple: https://apple.co/3oMt0NP Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2Xan2L8  Other: https://bit.ly/36gn7Ct   Go VIP for just $1: http://bit.ly/3FUGfIj   Over 2 Million Butts Love TUSHY. Get 10% off TUSHY with the code ILLINI at https://hellotushy.com/ILLINI To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hello Youtube Members, Patreons and Pacific War week by week listeners. Yes this was intended to be an exclusive episode to join the 29 others over on my Youtube Membership and Patreon, but since we are drawing to the end of the Pacific War week by week series, I felt compelled to make some special episodes to answer some of the bigger questions. Why did Japan, or better said, why did Emperor Hirohito decide to finally surrender? It seems obvious on the face of it, but there is actually a lot more to it than bombs or Soviet invasions. I guess you can call this episode a teaser or a shameless plug for going over to my Youtube Membership or Patreon. There's honestly a lot of interesting subjects such as ‘why was the japanese army so brutal”, “Hirohito's war time responsibility”, “the 4 part Kanji Ishiwara series”. Thus if you liked this one please show some love and check out my other stuff on my Youtube Membership or over at www.patreon.com/pacificwarchannel.   Stating all of that lets just jump right into it.   We first need to start off briefly looking at Emperor Hirohito.    Upon taking the throne, Emperor Hirohito in 1926 Hirohito inherited a financial crisis and a military that was increasingly seizing control of governmental policies. From the beginning, despite what many of you older audience members may have been told, Hirohito intensely followed all military decisions. Hirohito chose when to act and when not to. When the Kwantung Army assassinated Zhang Zuolin, he indulged their insubordination. This emboldened them to invade Manchuria in 1931, whereupon Hirohito was furious and demanded they be reigned in. Attempts were made, but they were heavily undermined by radicals. Hirohito could have put his foot down, but he chose not to. On September 22nd, at 4:20pm Hirohito said to the IJA Chief of General staff, Kanaya Hanzo “although this time it couldn't be helped, the army had to be more careful in the future”. Thus Hirohito again acquiesced to the military, despite wanting them to stop or at least localize the conflict. The military had disregarded his wishes, they should have been severely punished. Why did Hirohito not take a firmer stance?    Again for older audience members you may have heard, “hirohito was a hostage at the whim of his own military”. This narrative made it seem he was some sort of hostage emperor, but this is not the case at all. In fact Hirohito was instrumental in many military decisions from 1931-1945. The reason this, I will call it “myth” , went on was because after Japan's surrender, the US basically rewrote the Japanese constitution and covered up the Emperor's involvement in all the nasty stuff, to maintain control over Japan. Yeah it sounds a bit conspiracy esque, but I assure you it was indeed the case. This narrative held firm all the way until Hirohito's death, when finally meeting notes and personal accounts from those close to him came out, illuminating a lot. Though to this day, many records are still red -tapped.   The reason Hirohito did not stamp his foot down has to do with the Kokutai.    The Kokutai   So before I carry on, I have to explain what exactly is the Kokutai.    The Kokutai, loosely translated as "national essence," refers to the qualities that distinguish the Japanese identity. However, this concept is remarkably vague and poorly defined; even Japanese historians acknowledge this ambiguity. In contrast to Kokutai is seitai, or "form of government." While the Kokutai embodies the eternal and immutable aspects of Japanese polity—rooted in history, traditions, and customs centered around the Emperor—Japan's seitai has evolved significantly throughout its extensive history. For instance, shoguns governed for over 700 years until 1868, when the Meiji Restoration reinstated direct imperial rule.   Nevertheless, Emperor Meiji's direct authority came to an end with the adoption of the Meiji Constitution in 1889, which established a constitutional monarchy, introducing significant complexities into the governance system.   Article 4 of the constitution declares: “The Emperor is the head of the Empire, combining in Himself the rights of sovereignty, uniting the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government, although subject to the consent of the Imperial Diet.” Under this framework, the Emperor alone possessed the power to appoint or dismiss ministers of state, declare war, negotiate peace, conclude treaties, direct national administration, and command the army and navy.   A glaring flaw in this arrangement is the inherent ambiguity of the Meiji Constitution. While it established a democratic parliament, it simultaneously afforded the Emperor absolute authority to usurp it. The document failed to clearly define the relationships between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, and its language was intentionally vague. Most critically, the military—the army and navy—were not directly accountable to the civilian government.    So with the kokutai, the Emperor is a divine figure who embodies the state's sovereignty. It was not necessarily the Emperor's job to surrender on behalf of the official government of Japan, but he most certainly could do so, given the Japanese people still remained faithful to the kokutai.    Now Hirohito did not live an ordinary life. According to the imperial custom, Japanese royals were raised apart from their parents, at the age of 3 he was placed in the care of the Kwamura family who vowed to raise him to be unselfish, persevering in the face of difficulties, respectful of the views of others and immune to fear. One thing that was absolutely indoctrinated into him was to defend the kokutai. It became his top mission as a monarch, it was the only mission in many ways. At the very core of how he saw the world and how he acted, it was always to protect the kokutai.    So when the Japanese military began these insubordinate acts, Hirohito's primary concern was to the kokutai, ie: anything that threatened his imperial authority and the imperial institution itself. Although the military usurped his authority, the operations had been successful. Hirohito was not at all opposed to seeing his empire expand. He understood the value of manchuria, he was fully onboard with the military plans to eventually seize control over it, but these radicals were accelerating things to quickly for everyone's liking. He turned a blind eye, dished light punishments and carried on. However the local conflict escalated. It traveled to Shanghai by 1932 and here Hirohito took action. He understood Shanghai was full of western powers. Nations like Britain and America could place economic sanctions on Japan if things were allowed to get out of hand here. So he ordered General Yoshinori Shirakawa to bring the Shanghai expedition to a close.    During this period, two factions emerged within the Japanese military: the Kodoha, or “Imperial Way,” and the Toseiha, or “Control” faction. The Kodoha was founded by General Sadao Araki and his protégé, Jinzaburo Masaki. Their primary objective was a Shōwa Restoration aimed at purging Japan of corrupt politicians and businessmen, especially those associated with the zaibatsu. Composed mainly of young army officers, the Kodoha espoused a romanticized and radical interpretation of Bushido, idealizing pre-industrial Japan, which Araki believed had been tainted by Western influences. To achieve their goals, they resorted to assassinations and planned a coup d'état.   In response, the Toseiha faction was formed, initially led by Lt. General Tetsuzan Nagata and later by Hideki Tojo. Like the Kodoha, the Toseiha sought a Shōwa Restoration but adopted a more moderate and conservative approach. They recognized the importance of preserving traditional values while integrating Western ideals, advocating for a balanced perspective. The Toseiha promoted pragmatic military strategies to navigate the complexities of modern warfare. Although they acknowledged the existence of corrupt politicians and zaibatsu, they preferred to work within the existing political system, anticipating that future total wars would necessitate a strengthened industrial and military capacity. Their ranks primarily included promising graduates from the Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) Academy, Army Staff College, and select naval members. The most significant distinction between the two factions was that the Toseiha explicitly rejected the use of a coup d'état in pursuit of their goals.   Between 1932-1936 radical officers, mostly of the Kodoha faction assassinated politicians and military leaders trying to usher in a showa restoration. You might be led to believe this was in the interest of Hirohito, you would be mistaken. Hirohito did not want a military dictatorship at the whim of the cult of the emperor. Ironic to say, given how WW2 turns out mind you. This really would have been a hostage situation. Hirohito wanted to maintain the exact ambiguous situation that was Showa Era Japan pre 1945. He saw this as the most ideal structure to defend the kokutai, because blame could not be placed solely upon his shoulders. He always maintained a get out of jail free card one could say.    The February 26 incident of 1936, was the climax of the Kodoha faction. They performed a mutiny trying to usher in a SHowa restoration. They assumed when their messenger came to the emperor he would join them and take direct rule. Instead Hirohito was furious. His first thought was the mutineers were trying to enlist his brother Chichibu to overthrow him. He dragged his brother who was a fraternizer amongst the kodoha members mind you, into a meeting, demanding he never associate with them again nor attempt to challenge him. Then Hirohito furious demanded the mutineers be dealt with. At one point he even threatened to lead the imperial guards to put them down. The coup failed, the kodoha faction was destroyed. Ironically the toseiha faction were the ones to do it and thus they became the defacto ruling clique.    The military, especially the kwantung army did not stop with their insubordination.    On July 8th of 1937 the Kwangtung army performed the Marco Polo Bridge incident, ushering in the second sino-japanese war. This was one of many false flag operations they had pulled off over the years. Upon being told about this Hirohito's first response was whether the USSR would invade Manchukuo over the matter. This is what he said to Prime Minister Konoe and army minister Sugiyama “What will you do if the Soviets attack us from the rear?” he asked the prince. Kan'in answered, “I believe the army will rise to the occasion.” The emperor repeated his question: “That's no more than army dogma. What will you actually do in the unlikely event that Soviet [forces] attack?” The prince said only, “We will have no choice.” His Majesty seemed very dissatisfied. Hirohito furious demanded to know what contingency plans existed and his advisors told him before he gave his red seal of approval to invade northern china.   Henceforth he micromanaged a lot of the military decisions going forward and he oversaw the forming and dissolving of numerous cabinets and positions when things went his way or did not in the military and political scene.  Emperor Hirohito was presented with several opportunities to cause cease-fires or peace settlements during the war years. One of the best possible moments to end it all came during the attack on Nanking when Chiang Kai-sheks military were in disarray. On July 11 of 1938, the commander of the 19th division fought a border clash with the USSR known to us in the west as the battle of Lake Khasan. It was a costly defeat for Japan and in the diary of Harada Kumao he noted Hirohito scolded Army minister Itagaki “Hereafter not a single soldier is to be moved without my permission.” When it looked like the USSR would not press for a counter attack across the border, Hirohito gave the order for offensives in China to recommence, again an example of him deciding when to lay down the hammer.   By 1939 the US began threatening sanctions for what Japan was doing in China. Hirohito complained to his chief aide de camp Hata Shunroku on August 5th “It could be a great blow to scrap metal and oil”. Hirohito was livid and scolded many of his top officials and forced the appointment of General Abe to prime minister and demanded of him “to cooperate with the US and Britain and preserve internal order”.   Fast forward a bit, with war raging in Europe Hirohito, on June 19th of 1940 Hirohito asked if chief of staff Prince Kan'in and Army Minister Hata “At a time when peace will soon come in the European situation, will there be a deployment of troops to the Netherlands Indies and French Indochina?” This question highlighted Hirohito's belief at that time that Germany was close to achieving victory, which led him to gradually consider deploying troops to French Indochina and the Dutch East Indies since neither of those parent nations was in a position to protect their territories and vital resources. Regarding the war in China, the Japanese aimed to stop the flow of materials entering China from places like Hong Kong. Hirohito received reports indicating that Britain would not agree to block the shipment of materials into China via Hong Kong. The military recognized that an invasion of Hong Kong might be necessary, which would mean declaring war on Britain. When this was communicated to him, Hirohito responded, “If that occurs, I'm sure America will enforce an embargo, don't you think?” In response, Kido, the lord of the privy seal, reassured him by stating, “The nation must be fully prepared to resist, proceeding with caution and avoiding being drawn into events instigated by foreign interests.”   Hirohito went through countless meetings, but eventually signed order number 458 authorizing the invasion of French Indochina, knowing full well the consequences. The US,UK and Netherlands began embargoes of oil, rubber and iron. In the words of Admiral Takagai “As time passes and this situation continues, our empire will either be totally defeated or forced to fight a hopeless war. Therefore we should pursue war and diplomacy together. If there is no prospect of securing our final line of national survival by diplomatic negotiations, we must be resolved to fight.” Hirohito understood the predicament full well, that each day Japan was wasting its oil reserves, if they were to strike it had to be quickly.   On October 13th Hirohito told his closest advisor Koichi Kido “In the present situation there seems to be little hope for the Japan–U.S. negotiations. If hostilities erupt this time, I think I may have to issue a declaration of war.”   The reason I am bringing up all this stuff is to solidify, Hirohito had agency, he was micromanaging and forming decisions. After the war broke out with the west, Hirohito did have the ability to stamp his foot down. Of course there could have been wild repercussions, his military could have usurped him with Chichibu, it was definitely possible. But you need to keep this mind set, as far as why Hirohito acts or doesn't, its always to protect the Kokutai. Thus one of the levers for peace, solely rested on Hirohito's perception if the kokutai could be retained or not.    From the outset of the Pacific War, Hirohito believed Germany was going to defeat the USSR. In line with his military leaders, they all believed Japan had to seize everything they could in the asia-pacific and thwart off the US until a negotiated peace could be met. Hirohito committed himself to overseeing the war, determined to achieve victory at any cost. He was a very cautious leader, he meticulously analyzed each campaign, anticipating potential setbacks and crafting worst-case scenario predictions. He maintained a skeptical view of the reports from his senior officials and was often harshly critical of high commanders.   While he did not frequently visit the front lines like other commanders in chief, Hirohito wielded significant influence over theater operations, shaping both planning and execution whenever he deemed necessary. Similar to his approach during the war in China, he issued the highest military orders from the Imperial Headquarters, conducted audited conferences, and made decisions communicated under his name. He regularly welcomed generals and admirals to the imperial palace for detailed briefings on the battlefront and visited various military bases, battleships, and army and naval headquarters. His inspections encompassed military schools and other significant military institutions, adding to his comprehensive involvement in the war effort.   Now the war went extremely well for Japan until the battle of Midway. This was as major setback, but Japan retained the initiative. Then the Guadalcanal campaign saw Japan lose the initiative to the Americans. Upon receiving the initial report of the Ichiki detachment's destruction, Hirohito remarked, “I am sure it [Guadalcanal] can be held.” Despite the numerous reports detailing the devastating effects of tropical diseases and starvation on his troops, he persistently demanded greater efforts from them. Hirohito exerted continuous pressure on his naval and land commanders to retake the island. On September 15th, November 5th, and November 11th, he requested additional Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) troops and aircraft to be allocated to the cause.   General Sugiyama expressed concerns about dispatching more IJA pilots due to their inexperience in transoceanic combat, preferring to reinforce the North China Army for an attack on Chongqing instead. Hirohito pressed the issue again, but Sugiyama responded that the IJA had diverted its air resources to New Guinea and Rabaul. Undeterred by the objections from senior commanders, Hirohito persisted in his demands. By late November, it became evident that Guadalcanal was a lost cause.   At an Imperial Headquarters conference on December 31st, 1942, the chiefs of staff proposed canceling the attempts to recapture Guadalcanal. Hirohito sanctioned this decision but stated, “It is unacceptable to just give up on capturing Guadalcanal. We must launch an offensive elsewhere.” He insisted on this point, leading to the selection of new strategic targets in the Solomons, north of New Georgia, and in the Stanley Range on New Guinea. Hirohito even threatened to withhold authorization for withdrawing troops from Guadalcanal until a new plan was established. He later opposed the withdrawal from Munda Airfield, as it contradicted the newly defined defensive line.   As the defensive perimeter in the central and northern Solomons began to crumble, Hirohito continued to insist that the navy engage in decisive battles to regain the initiative, allowing for the transport of supplies to the many soldiers trapped on various islands. When he learned of the navy's failure to reinforce Lae on March 3rd, he asked, “Then why didn't you change plans immediately and land at Madan? This is a failure, but it can teach us a good lesson and become a source of future success. Do this for me so I can have peace of mind for a while.” The phrase “Do this for me” would come to be his signature rallying cry.   After Guadal canal, it was loss after loss for Japan. By February of 1944, Hirohito forced Sugiyama to resign so Hideki Tojo could take his position as chief of the general staff, note Tojo was prime minister and army minister at this point. Hirohito worked alongside Tojo to plan some last ditch efforts to change the war situation. The most significant one was Operation Ichi-Go. As much damage as they did to China with that, Chiang Kai-Shek's government survived. Hirohito watched as island by island fell to the Americans. When the Americans were poised to take Saipan he warned Tojo “If we ever lose Saipan, repeated air attacks on Tokyo will follow. No matter what it takes, we have to hold there.” Saipan fell, so Hirohito stopped supporting Tojo and allowed his rivals to take down his cabinet by june 18th of 1944.    Hirohito remained resolute in his determination to wrest victory from the Allies. On October 18th, the Imperial Headquarters ordered a decisive naval engagement, leading to the Battle of Leyte Gulf. After the war, Hirohito publicly stated, "Contrary to the views of the Army and Navy General Staffs, I consented to the showdown battle at Leyte, believing that if we launched an attack and America hesitated, we might find an opportunity to negotiate." Leyte Gulf didnt work. The military began the kamikaze program. On new years day of 1945 Hirohito inspected the special last meal rations given to departing kamikaze units. Iwo Jima fell. Okinawa remained, and Hirohito lashed out “Is it because we failed to sink enemy transports that we've let the enemy get ashore? Isn't there any way to defend Okinawa from the landing enemy forces?” On the second day of Okinawa's invasion Hirohito ordered a counter landing by the 32nd army and urged the navy to counterattack in every way possible. It was a horrible failure, it cost the lives of up to 120,000 Japanese combatants, 170,000 noncombatants. The Americans lost 12,500 killed and 33,000 wounded. An absolute bloodbath.    The Surrender time   Now we come to the time period where Japan seriously began looking for ways to surrender. In Europe Germany was heading to its defeat and Japan knew this. As for Japan, their army in Burma had been annihilated. Their forces in China were faring better after Operation Ichi-go, having opened up a land corridor along the main railway from Beiping to Wuhan and from throughout Guangdong but still stuck in a deadlock stalemate, facing a guerrilla war that was costing them 64% of their military expenditures. They deeply feared once the Soviets finished up with Germany, they would undoubtedly turn east against Manchuria. With the Soviets attacking from the north, the US would attack from the south, perhaps landing in Shanghai and the home islands. The Kamikaze tactics were proving formidable, but not nearly enough. By 1945, 43% of the IJA were now stationed in Japan, Korea and Formosa, bracing for the final stand. Former prime minister Reijiro Wakatsuki came out of retirement in may of 1945, having heard Germany collapsed, to urge Hirohito and the Prime Minister Kantaro Suzuki to open negotiations with the US as soon as possible. However he also said “the enemy must first be made to see the disadvantages of continuing the war”. To this Hirohito's chief counselor Makino Nobuaki said that “the ultimate priority is to develop an advantageous war situation.” Advisor admiral Kesiuke Okada said Japan should wait for “a moment favorable for us,” then make peace. Advisors Kiichiro Hiranuma and Koki Hirota advised the emperor to fight on until the end.   Now I want to bring in a key player to the surrender decision, that of Prince Konoe. Konoe was very close to Hirohito and understood the emperors mentality, especially how he viewed things in relation to the kokutai.    The senior statesman Prince Konoe had been consulting with Hirohito for over 18 months at this point trying to convey the message that if the war continued it would threaten the kokutai. Many months prior, he confided in the emperor's brother, Prince Takamatsu, that the army was suffering from “a cancer” in the form of the Toseiha faction. However, he noted that “Kido and others” did not share his perspective, while “his Majesty is relatively unconcerned with ideological issues.” For the past four years, he continued, the emperor had been advised and still believed that “the true extremists are the Kodoha faction.” In reality, the greater threat to the kokutai arose from the Toseiha faction. Konoe further asserted that if the war escalated, they would attempt to alter the kokutai.   Konoe speculated that whether the threat originated from communists within the nation, primarily referring to left-wing radicals in the Toseiha faction, or from the “Anglo-American enemy,” both would seek to preserve the emperor while pushing towards the country's communization.In his written report to the emperor on February 14, which Kido listened to attentively, Konoe elaborated on his conspiracy theory. He asserted that the Soviet Union regarded Japan as its primary threat in East Asia. The Soviets had allied with the Chinese Communists, the largest and most formidable Communist party in Asia, and were collaborating with the United States and Britain to drive Japan out of China. He warned that they would enter the war when the opportunity arose.   Defeat, he cautioned the emperor, was inevitable if the conflict persisted. However, he emphasized that a far greater fear was the potential destruction of the kokutai. The ongoing war was eroding the domestic status quo, unleashing forces that threatened Japan and its imperial institution from within as much as from external adversaries. The real danger lay in the emperor's and Kido's trust in the generals of the Toseiha faction, who were unintentionally facilitating the communization of Japan. Konoe implored for a swift peace settlement before a Communist revolution emerged, making the preservation of the kokutai impossible. Hirohito agreed with Konoe but stated “ To end the war would be “very difficult unless we make one more military gain.” Konoe allegedly replied, “Is that possible? It must happen soon. If we have to wait much longer, . . . [a mere battle victory] will mean nothing.” Hirohito replied “If we hold out long enough in this war, we may be able to win, but what worries me is whether the nation will be able to endure it until then.”   On February 15th of 1945, Hirohito's intelligence warned the Soviet Union would likely abrogate its Neutrality Pact with Japan. Even Tojo conceded there was a 50/50 chance the USSR would invade Manchuria. In March, the US began B-29 incendiary bombing raids over Tokyo, turning 40% of the capital into ash. On March 18th, Hirohito with some aides drove around the capital to witness the devastation. The civilians looked exhausted and bewildered to Hirohito. Factory production was collapsing, absenteeism was rising, instances of lese majeste were running rampant. For the next 5 months imperial family members and senior statesmen all began speaking to Hirohito about the “crises of the kokutai”. The threat Konoe had warned about for months was becoming the main talking point. It seemed like the Japanese people within the countryside and urban areas remained steadfast in the resolve to obey their leaders, work and sacrifice for their nation, but for how long would they feel so?    It was only after the battle for Okinawa was lost and 60 Japanese cities had been leveled by American incendiary bombs that Hirohito openly indicated he wanted to negotiate a surrender.   Kido's diary reveals the first clear indication that the emperor might be urged to consider an early peace on June 8, 1945, when Kido drafted his “Draft Plan for Controlling the Crisis Situation.” This marked a pivotal moment. It followed the unintentional bombing of the Imperial Palace, the complete loss of hope for saving Okinawa, and coincided with the day the Supreme War Leadership Council adopted the “Basic Policy for the Future Direction of the War.” With the fighting in Europe concluded, Japan found itself entirely isolated. Kido's plan, although vague, proposed seeking the Soviet Union's assistance as an intermediary to help Japan gain leverage in negotiations with its adversaries. By drafting this plan, Kido signaled the end of his long alliance with the military hard-liners. Hirohito's acceptance of it indicated his readiness for an early peace.   Hirohito was moved to an underground bunker in the mountains of Matsushiro in Nagano prefecture where upon those around him noted he fell into a deep depression. On June 22nd  Hirohito informed the Supreme War Leadership Council he wanted them to open diplomatic maneuvers to end the war. In early July Soviet Ambassador Jacob Malik broke off inconclusive talks with Hirota. Hirohito stepped in immediately and ordered a new special envoy be sent to Moscow. However Hirohito nor the Suzuki government had concrete plans on how to mediate a surrender through the Soviets. The only things they did prioritize was a guarantee of the emperors political position and retainment of the imperial system, ie the kokutai. This was taken into consideration rather than ending the war as quickly as possible to save the lives of millions.    From April 8, 1945, until Japan's capitulation, the Suzuki government's chief war policy was “Ketsugo,” an advanced iteration of the “Shosango” (Victory Number 3) plan for defending the homeland. The hallmark of this strategy was a heavy reliance on suicide tactics, including deploying a massive number of kamikaze “special attack” planes, human torpedoes launched from submarines, dynamite-stuffed “crash boats” powered by truck engines, human rocket bombs carried by aircraft, and suicide assaults by specially trained ground units.   While preparations for Operation Ketsu progressed, the Imperial Diet convened on June 9 to pass a Wartime Emergency Measures Law, along with five additional measures aimed at mobilizing the entire nation for this final battle. On the same day, the emperor, who had yet to initiate efforts to end the war, issued another imperial rescript in conjunction with the Diet's convocation, instructing the nation to “smash the inordinate ambitions of the enemy nations” and “achieve the goals of the war.” Concurrently, the controlled press launched a daily die-for-the-emperor campaign to foster gratitude for the imperial benevolence and, from around mid-July onward, initiated a campaign to “protect the kokutai.”   The Americans countered with their own propaganda aimed at breaking Japan's will to fight. B-29 bombers dropped millions of leaflets written in Japanese, announcing the next scheduled targets for bombing raids and urging surrender, while using the emperor to challenge the militarists. Leaflets bearing the chrysanthemum crest criticized the “military cliques” for “forcing the entire nation to commit suicide” and called on “everyone” to “exercise their constitutional right to make direct appeals [for peace] to the Emperor.” They asserted that “even the powerful military cliques cannot stop the mighty march for peace of the Emperor and the people.” One notable batch of seven million leaflets conveyed the terms of the “joint declaration” issued by the United States, Great Britain, and China. “Today we come not to bomb you,” they stated. “We are dropping this leaflet to inform you of the response from the United States government to your government's request for conditions of surrender.... Whether the war stops immediately depends on your government. You will understand how to end the war if you read these two official notifications.”   Amid pressures from imperial edicts to continue preparations for a final battle and focus solely on victory, the Japanese people were also subjected to an intense American psychological warfare campaign in addition to aerial bombardment. During late July and August, prefectural governors, police chiefs, and officers of the “special higher police” submitted reports to the Home Ministry detailing the rapidly deteriorating national morale.    Now on the other side, Roosevelt made it known back in January of 1943 at the Casablanca conference, the allies would only accept unconditional surrender. By 1945, the allies understood the predicament this left Japan with. On May 8th of 1945, Truman added “Japan's surrender would not mean the extermination or enslavement of the Japanese people” trying to indicate a non vindictive spirit. However the Kokutai question always remained ambiguous. State Department Joseph Grew, the former ambassador to Japan, began arguing to Truman they needed to make public a clear definition of the terms to persuade Japan to surrender. As he argued to Truman: Emperor Hirohito was seen as the key figure in Japan's surrender, likened to a "queen bee in a hive... surrounded by the attentions of the hive." Throughout the war, he was characterized in various ways—as a “puppet” of the militarists, a constitutional monarch, and a pacifist. Grew had immense faith in the influence exerted by what he referred to as the “moderates” surrounding the Japanese throne.    However many of Grew's colleagues argued the future existence of the monarchy was intolerable as it was akin to fascism. Many wanted to punish the emperor. Truman was in a tug of war. The Potsdam declaration issued on July 26th of 1945 came in the form of a ultimatum aiming to quicken japans surrender. Truman clarified the terms for the unconditional surrender at the end of its terms: "We call upon the government of Japan to proclaim now the unconditional surrender of all Japanese armed forces, and to provide proper and adequate assurances of their good faith in such action. The alternative for Japan is prompt and utter destruction." Zero mention of the emperor. Grew had argued to add “this may include a constitutional monarchy under the present dynasty.” But it was deleted from the article. The status of the emperor was not guaranteed, the kokutai was thus up in the air.    The next day, the Suzuki cabinet rejected the terms. The Japanese leadership and Hirohito were still banking and awaiting Soviet replies to their terms.    Lets talk about the Soviet talks now   Back on July 12th ambassador Naotake Satō sent this message to the Soviets: “His Majesty the Emperor, mindful of the fact that the present war daily brings greater evil and sacrifice upon the peoples of all the belligerent powers, desires from his heart that it may be quickly terminated. But so long as England and the United States insist upon unconditional surrender, the Japanese Empire has no alternative but to fight on with all its strength for the honor and existence of the Motherland”.  However the Soviets had made commitments to their allies, promising in fact to invade Japan to aid them.    As for the Soviets their primary objective was to ensure unrestricted access to the Pacific Ocean. The year-round ice-free areas of the Soviet Pacific coastline, particularly Vladivostok, could be blockaded by air and sea from Sakhalin Island and the Kurile Islands. Securing these territories to guarantee free access to the Soya Strait was their main goal. Secondary objectives included acquiring leases for the Chinese Eastern Railway, the Southern Manchuria Railway, as well as gaining control over Dairen and Port Arthur.   To achieve these aims, Stalin and Molotov prolonged negotiations with the Japanese, creating a false sense of hope for a Soviet-mediated peace. Simultaneously, in their discussions with the United States and Britain, the Soviets insisted on strict adherence to the Cairo Declaration, which had been reaffirmed at the Yalta Conference. This declaration stipulated that the Allies would not accept a separate or conditional peace with Japan; thus, the Japanese would need to surrender unconditionally to all the Allies. The Soviets aimed to prolong the war by opposing any efforts to dilute this requirement. This approach would provide the Soviets with the necessary time to complete the transfer of their troops from the Western Front to the Far East and to conquer Manchuria, Inner Mongolia, northern Korea, South Sakhalin, the Kuriles, and potentially Hokkaidō, starting with an assault on Rumoi. AUGUST 1945   Thus we come to at last the critical point, August of 1945.    The Americans prepared for the deployment of atomic bombs and for an invasion of southern Kyushu, known as Operation Olympic, scheduled to commence on November 1. At 8:15 A.M. on August 6, a single B-29 bomber, the Enola Gay dropped little boy, devastating much of the undefended city of Hiroshima, instantly killing an estimated 100,000 to 140,000 people and leading to the deaths of possibly another 100,000 over the next five years. At the epicenter of the explosion, “a light appeared 3,000 times brighter than the sun,” creating a fireball that emitted thermal radiation capable of “instantly scorching humans, trees, and houses.” As the air heated and rushed upward, cold air surged in to ignite a firestorm. Hours later, a whirlwind escalated the flames to their peak until more than eight square miles were virtually reduced to cinders. Subsequently, black, muddy rain filled with radioactive fallout began to fall. Two days later, using Japan's rejection of the Potsdam Declaration as a pretext, the Soviet Union declared war on Japan. Then on August 9, the United States dropped a second atomic bomb on Nagasaki, resulting in the immediate deaths of approximately 35,000 to 40,000 people and injuring more than 60,000.   Meanwhile, in Tokyo, during the critical period between the Potsdam Declaration and the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Emperor Hirohito remained silent about accepting the Potsdam terms. However, on July 25 and 31, he explicitly conveyed to Kido that the imperial regalia must be defended at all costs. The three sacred objects—a mirror, a curved jewel, and a sword—symbolized the legitimacy of his rule through the northern court and were integral to his identity as the divine sovereign. Hirohito's focus was on protecting these symbols of office, as he insisted on having them brought to the palace. This fixation on maintaining his symbols occurred during a pivotal moment when the pressing issue was whether to accept immediate capitulation. Reflecting on this, he was unprepared to seize the opportunity to end the war himself.   Prime Minister Suzuki, following his initial rejection of the Potsdam ultimatum, also saw no need for further action. His Cabinet Advisory Council, which included the president of Asano Cement, the founder of the Nissan consortium, the vice president of the Bank of Japan, and other representatives from the nation's leading business interests that had profited significantly from the war, convened on the morning of August 3. They recommended accepting the Potsdam terms, arguing that the United States would permit Japan to retain its non-military industries and continue participating in world trade.    Here are some reactions to the two bombs and invasion of Manchuria.    Yonai Mitsumasa said to admiral Takagi Sokichi, on August 12, that “I think the term is perhaps inappropriate, but the atomic bombs and the Soviet entry into the war are, in a sense, gifts from the gods [tenyu, also “heaven-sent blessings”]. This way we don't have to say that we quit the war because of domestic circumstances. I've long been advocating control of our crisis, but neither from fear of an enemy attack nor because of the atomic bombs and the Soviet entry into the war. The main reason is my anxiety over the domestic situation. So, it is rather fortunate that we can now control matters without revealing the domestic situation”.    Konoe's characterized the Soviet involvement in the war as “a godsend for controlling the army,”. Kido viewed of both the atomic bombings and the Soviet entry into the conflict as “useful” elements for ensuring a smooth transition. A nascent power struggle was unfolding, rendering the potential death toll—whether one hundred thousand or two hundred thousand—immaterial to those involved, as long as their desired outcome was achieved: an end to the war that would leave the monarchy intact and capable of managing the discontent that defeat would inevitably provoke. Throughout the final acts of this wartime drama, the Japanese “moderates” found it easier to capitulate to external pressures than to take decisive action on their own to conclude the war.   Another illuminating looks at Japan's elite's perspective on surrender terms was the document titled “Essentials of Peace Negotiations” (wahei kosho no yoryo). Drafted by Konoe and his adviser, retired Lt. Gen. Sakai Koji, after Konoe had reluctantly accepted a mission to Moscow, this document, stipulated the preservation of the emperor system, along with most of the imperial prerogatives, as the absolute minimum condition for peace. It defined the “original” or “essential homeland” as including the southern half of the Kurile Islands but showed a willingness to concede all overseas territories to the enemy, including Okinawa and the American-occupied Bonin Islands, as well as the southern half of Sakhalin. The “Essentials” also accepted complete disarmament for an unspecified period, thereby compromising on the issues of demobilizing and disarming the armed forces. More significantly, an “explanation” attached to the “Essentials” emphasized that “the main aim is to secure the imperial line and maintain the political role of the emperor.”    Why Japan surrendered   We come to it atleast after a long podcast. Why did Japan ultimately surrender?   The twin psychological shocks of the first atomic bomb and the Soviet entry into the war, combined with Kido's and the emperor's concern over escalating public criticism of the throne and its occupant, fueled an almost paranoid fear that, sooner or later, the populace would react violently against their leaders if the war persisted much longer. These factors ultimately led Hirohito to accept, in principle, the terms of the Potsdam Declaration.   At the first meeting of the six member constituents of the Supreme War Leadership Council, held from 10:30 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. on August 9, Army Minister Anami Korechika, Chiefs of Staff Umezu Yoshijiro, representing the army, and Yonai, representing the navy, along with Tōgō, from the Foreign Ministry, were expected to discuss the acceptance of the Potsdam Declaration. Instead, the conversation revolved around whether to attempt a conditional surrender—specifically, should they insist on one condition, the preservation of the kokutai, or four?   After Suzuki addressed the assembly regarding the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and the Soviet attack, Yonai, as recounted by Navy Chief of Staff Toyoda, was the first to speak, framing the issue in terms of four conditions. “Let's start to talk, Do we accept the Potsdam Declaration with no conditions? If not, and we wish to insist on attaching hopes and conditions, we may do so this way. First, preservation of the kokutai; then for the rest, the main items in the Potsdam Declaration: treatment of war criminals, method of disarmament, and the matter of sending in an army of occupation.” Thus, the participants identified what they perceived to be the ambiguous points within the Potsdam Declaration and used them as the foundation for their discussions.   The army insisted on four conditions: First, the preservation of the kokutai, which they considered distinct from the Potsdam Declaration itself. The other conditions proposed were, second, that the Imperial Headquarters assume responsibility for disarmament and demobilization; third, a prohibition on occupation; and fourth, the delegation of the punishment of war criminals to the Japanese government. The army equated the kokutai with the emperor's right of supreme command. Their self-serving desire for autonomous war crimes trials was based on the belief that the Allies would use such trials to politically indict the military. Consequently, army leaders aimed to preempt the activities of any international tribunal by conducting their own trials—similar to the approach taken by the uninvaded and unrepentant Germans after World War I.   Supporting the military's views during cabinet meetings that day were three civilian members of the Suzuki cabinet: Justice Minister Matsuzaka Hiromasa, Home Minister Yasui Toji, and Minister of Health Okada Tadahiko. At the imperial conference that night, which extended into the early hours of the tenth, Foreign Minister Tōgō's interpretation of the “preservation of the kokutai” referred solely to the safeguarding of the Imperial House or dynasty, rather than the continuation of Hirohito's reign.   Hiranuma, another advocate for the single condition, interpreted the kokutai as the “emperor's sovereign right to rule the state [not] deriving from national law. Even if the entire nation is sacrificed to the war, we must preserve both the kokutai and the security of the imperial house.” This discrepancy illustrated that there was no completely unified understanding of what the kokutai entailed; the debate over one condition versus four represented conflicting visions for the future of the Japanese state and masked the competition for political power that was already unfolding.   It remains doubtful whether the emperor and Kido initially sided with Tōgō against the four conditions proposed by the senior military leaders. A more likely inference is that both men retained sympathies for the hardliners, both military and civilian, who preferred to continue the futile war rather than surrender immediately and unconditionally. This may explain why, on August 9, Konoe had Hosokawa Morisada approach Navy General Headquarters to urge the emperor's brother, Prince Takamatsu, to pressure Hirohito (through Kido) to accept the Potsdam terms. Later that afternoon, Konoe enlisted the help of diplomat Shigemitsu Mamoru to persuade Kido to reconsider his stance on the four conditions. Ultimately, at the urging of Takamatsu and Shigemitsu, Kido did shift to support Tōgō's position.   At the end of the war, as at its beginning and throughout every stage of its progression, Emperor Hirohito played a highly active role in supporting the actions carried out in his name. From the very beginning of the Asia-Pacific war, the emperor played a significant role in the unfolding events around him. Prior to the Battle of Okinawa, he consistently advocated for a decisive victory. Afterward, he acknowledged the necessity of pursuing an early peace, although he did not favor an immediate cessation of hostilities. Instead, he wavered, steering Japan toward ongoing warfare rather than direct negotiations with the Allies. When the final crisis fully unfolded, the only option left was unconditional surrender. Even then, he continued to procrastinate until the atomic bomb was dropped and the Soviets launched their attack. The wartime emperor ideology that once sustained morale made it exceedingly difficult for Japan's leaders to accept the act of surrender. Aware of their objective defeat, yet indifferent to the suffering the war inflicted on their own people—as well as on the populations of Asia, the Pacific, and the West whose lives they had disrupted—the emperor and his military leaders sought a means to lose without appearing to lose. They aimed to mitigate domestic criticism following surrender while preserving their power structure.   Blinded by their fixation on the fate of the imperial house and committed to an overly optimistic diplomacy toward the Soviet Union, Japan's leaders missed several opportunities to end their lost war. Would Japan's leaders have surrendered more promptly if the Truman administration had “clarified” the status of the emperor before the cataclysmic double shocks of the atomic bomb and the Soviet entry into the war? Probably not. However, it is likely they would have surrendered to prevent the kokutai from being destroyed from within. The evidence suggests that the first atomic bomb and the Soviet declaration of war led Hirohito, Kido, and other members of the court to believe that continuing the war would inevitably result in that destruction. They recognized that the populace was war-weary and despondent, with rising hostility toward the military and the government, accompanied by increasing criticism of the emperor himself. More specifically, Kido and Hirohito were privy to Home Ministry reports, which contained information from governors and police chiefs nationwide. These reports indicated that citizens were beginning to label the emperor as an incompetent leader responsible for the deteriorating war situation.   This is the third variable, never spoken about. Many first look at the atomic bombs. Bigger brain people turn to the Soviet Invasion of Manchuria. But hardly anyone reads about how the collapse of Japan's social fabric, scared the shit out of the Emperor and his closest advisors. You can't have a kokutai, without a populace that worshiped you.    When the emperor expressed in February, “What worries me is whether the nation [could] endure” long enough to achieve victory, he was not merely voicing concern for the suffering of his subjects; rather, he feared that such suffering could lead to social upheaval—in short, revolution. At that time, he referred to the ordinary, war-related hardships of food shortages, air raids, devastated cities, destruction of homes, and the omnipresent grief from the loss of loved ones. The atomic bomb escalated death, pain, and suffering to unimaginably higher levels, intensifying the threat from within. After the bombings of Japan and two atomic bombs, Hirohito was in a dark way, given a golden get out of jail free card. Hirohito could now save his suffering people from further anguish by surrendering, allowing him to deflect responsibility for leading them into misery while adopting an air of benevolence and care. Indeed, Hirohito did care—though not primarily for the Japanese people, but rather for the survival of his own imperial house and throne.   After the bombing of Hiroshima, Hirohito delayed for a full two days before instructing Kido, shortly before 10 A.M. on August 9, to “quickly control the situation” because “the Soviet [Union]” had declared war. Kido immediately communicated with Prime Minister Suzuki, who began arrangements for an Imperial Conference scheduled for later that night. Following the seidan of August 10, Chief Cabinet Secretary Sakomizu took charge of drafting the “Imperial Rescript Ending the War” based on Hirohito's directives. Assisted by two scholars of the Chinese classics, Kawada Mizuho and Yasuoka Masahiro, Sakomizu worked tirelessly for over three days before submitting a version of the rescript to the Suzuki cabinet. After six hours of contentious discussion on the night of August 14, the cabinet modified and approved the document. Hirohito promptly signed it, and Shimomura and Kido persuaded him to record a suitably opaque final version for broadcast to the nation.   On the night of August 14, the Suzuki government notified the United States and other Allied nations that it had accepted both the Potsdam Declaration and the Byrnes letter of August 11. Accelerating the emperor's actions during this climactic moment of the unconditional surrender drama was the American psychological warfare campaign. When a leaflet dropped from B-29 bombers came into Kido's possession on the night of August 13 or the morning of the fourteenth, he conferred with the emperor and explained the gravity of the situation. The latest enemy leaflets were informing the Japanese people of the government's notification of surrender under one condition, along with the full text of Byrnes's response. If this continued, it would undermine the imperial government's reliance on secrecy to obscure the true nature of the lost war and the reasons for the prolonged surrender delay.   Given Kido's and the emperor's concerns about rising signs of defeatism, including criticism of the throne, immediate action was necessary to prevent the populace from acting on their own initiative. Thus, the second seidan was convened. At noon on August 15, the Japanese people gathered around their radio receivers and heard, for the first time, the high-pitched voice of their emperor telling them:    “After pondering deeply the general trends of the world and the actual conditions obtaining in Our Empire today, We have decided to effect a settlement of the present situation by resorting to an extraordinary measure. We have ordered Our Government to communicate to the Governments of the United States, Great Britain, China and the Soviet Union that Our Empire accepts the provisions of their Joint Declaration. To strive for the common prosperity and happiness of all nations as well as the security and well-being of Our subjects is the solemn obligation which has been handed down by Our Imperial Ancestors and which lies close to Our heart. Indeed, We declared war on America and Britain out of Our sincere desire to ensure Japan's self-preservation and the stabilization of East Asia, it being far from Our thought either to infringe upon the sovereignty of other nations or to embark upon territorial aggrandizement. But now the war has lasted for nearly four years. Despite the best that has been done by everyone—the gallant fighting of the military and naval forces, the diligence and assiduity of Our servants of the State, and the devoted service of Our one hundred million people—the war situation has developed not necessarily to Japan's advantage, while the general trends of the world have all turned against her interest. Moreover, the enemy has begun to employ a new and most cruel bomb, the power of which to do damage is, indeed, incalculable, taking the toll of many innocent lives. Should we continue to fight, not only would it result in an ultimate collapse and obliteration of the Japanese nation, but also it would lead to the total extinction of human civilization. Such being the case, how are We to save the millions of Our subjects, or to atone Ourselves before the hallowed spirits of Our Imperial Ancestors? This is the reason why We have ordered the acceptance of the provisions of the Joint Declaration of the Powers... The hardships and sufferings to which Our nation is to be subjected hereafter will be certainly great. We are keenly aware of the inmost feelings of all of you, Our subjects. However, it is according to the dictates of time and fate that We have resolved to pave the way for a grand peace for all the generations to come by enduring the unendurable and suffering what is unsufferable”.   Clearly Hirohito sought to justify his decision to surrender by citing the dropping of the atomic bombs. He wanted to become the saviour of the Japanese people. Hirohito wanted to obfuscate the issue of accountability, to prevent expressions of strife and anger and to strengthen domestic unity around himself, to protect and raise the kokutai.  Interestingly, the surrender declaration to the civilian population was not the same one sent to the military. On August 17th Hirohito issued a second “rescript to soldiers and sailors” throughout the asia-pacific.   “ Now that the Soviet Union has entered the war against us, to continue . . . under the present conditions at home and abroad would only recklessly incur even more damage to ourselves and result in endangering the very foundation of the empire's existence. Therefore, even though enormous fighting spirit still exists in the Imperial Navy and Army, I am going to make peace with the United States, Britain, and the Soviet Union, as well as with Chungking, in order to maintain our glorious national polity”.   The lesser-known August 17 rescript to the army and navy specified Soviet participation as the sole reason for surrender, while maintaining the kokutai as the primary aim. Dissembling until the end—and even beyond—it was noted that the emperor presented two different justifications for his delayed surrender. Both statements were likely true.   Months later Hirohito's said this about his decision to surrender “The main motive behind my decision at that time was that if we . . . did not act, the Japanese race would perish and I would be unable to protect my loyal subjects [sekishi—literally, “children”]. Second, Kido agreed with me on the matter of defending the kokutai. If the enemy landed near Ise Bay, both Ise and Atsuta Shrines would immediately come under their control. There would be no time to transfer the sacred treasures [regalia] of the imperial family and no hope of protecting them. Under these circumstances, protection of the kokutai would be difficult. For these reasons, I thought at the time that I must make peace even at the sacrifice of myself.”    There exists this sort of childish argument today whether it was the atomic bombs or the Soviet Invasion that caused Japan to surrender. However, this overlooks as I think I've explained in 9000 words jeez, the influence of the kokutai. Defending the kokutai was Hirohito's number one priority. The Soviets threatened it. Communism threatened it. What Japan perceived to be “democracy” threatened it. American victory threatened it. And the destruction of Japan's social fabric threatened it. I love this one piece of history, that I have only come across in one book, that being the main one I am using here.   On August 12th, Hirohito came to the imperial family to tell them he had made the decision to surrender. His uncle Prince Yasuhiko Asaka asked him whether the war would be continued if the kokutai could not be preserved. Hirohito replied “of course”.

Is playing by someone else's rules keeping you small (and underpaid)? Business growth strategist Anniedi Essien joins Michelle to spill the bold truths on owning your expertise, pitching like a pro, and showing up as your most unapologetic self—sneakers, sparkle, and all. If you're tired of underselling your brilliance and playing small, get ready to learn how to score those big corporate contracts, crush imposter syndrome, and bring your whole personality to the table. This one is a pep talk for everyone who's ever wanted to land dream clients, set their own rules, and finally get paid what they're worth.   Anniedi Essien is a Chief Swagger Officer, Business Growth Strategist and Keynote Speaker who loves empowering busy professionals to lead more healthy, wealthy and fulfilling lives. She went from burnt out as a top corporate healthcare executive to fired up as an entrepreneur by taking charge of her own health, regaining the sparkle in her eyes, and launching her dream biz at Idem Spark. Anniedi created Swagger School® to advise C-Suite executives, entrepreneurs and women in leadership on how to elevate their impact, influence and income—without sacrificing wellness—so they can build multiple streams of wealth and joy by growing with more corporate clients. As a former corporate buyer, she is passionate about equipping independent consultants with the tools they need to capture a bigger piece of the revenue pie globally by elevating their positioning and playing more boldly in the B2B space with swagger. Anniedi has a BA in biomedical ethics from Brown University and an MBA in strategy from NYU Stern School of Business. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Visionary branding and entrepreneurship insights Lead generation vs. demand generation Strategic partnering for limitless impact Overcoming imposter syndrome with authenticity What swagger is and finding your competitive advantage Redefining professionalism Staying aligned with yourself through design thinking The role of AI and your creative advantage Marketing to corporate buyers and scale up Networking and the value of community Hitting your revenue with only a handful of clients Advice for entrepreneurs in September ---------------------- RESOURCES: Access Anniedi's FREE Ultimate Guide to Sealing More Corporate Deals to slay sales with corporate clients Episode 231: Styled to Lead: The Intersection of Aesthetic and Authority Episode 201: Building a Global Brand with Shay Bacani Episode 200: Our Teams' 2025 Bingoals Revealed Episode 176: Client Case Study: Piano C Property Management ----------------------- Guest info: To learn more about Anniedi and her consulting, follow her on Instagram @AnniediEssien and Facebook @Anniedi.Essien and visit her website, IdemSparkLife.com ----------------------- Boring packaging? Forgettable branding? Sticker Giant fixes that with custom stickers and labels designed to make your brand stick—literally. Use code KMA25 at stickergiant.com for 25% off your first order. ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO.   Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma. ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma.   This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

That Solo Life Episode 313: Strategies for Securing New PR Business in 2025 Episode Summary Karen and Michelle dive into optimistic data about the global growth of the PR industry and share strategic insights for solo practitioners looking to finish 2025 strong. Drawing from recent industry research, they explore emerging trends, niche specialization opportunities, and practical business development tactics that can help independent PR pros break through current market challenges and position themselves for future success. Episode Highlights PR Industry Growth Statistics (02:10) - Discussion of global PR industry expansion and what it means for solo practitioners Content Creation as Core Offering (03:06) - 76% of PR agencies now emphasize content strategy and creation services The Rise of Niche Specialization (04:18) - 37% of agencies focus on specialized industries like fintech and health tech Strategic Industry Targeting (05:40) - Identifying high-growth sectors with future potential, including infrastructure and healthcare Pricing Psychology (09:25) - Why charging more can actually win you more business Networking Beyond PR Circles (10:28) - Breaking out of industry echo chambers to find new opportunities Local Government Connections (11:18) - Building relationships with municipal leaders and borough managers Overcoming Business Development Fatigue (12:47) - Managing exhaustion while staying proactive in challenging times Key Takeaways The PR industry is growing globally, even if it doesn't feel that way locally Specializing in niche industries offers competitive advantages Infrastructure projects present untapped opportunities for PR pros Higher pricing often signals higher value to potential clients Networking outside the PR industry can yield unexpected opportunities Your skills are transferable across industries - don't limit yourself Small, consistent changes to your business development approach can yield big results Related Episodes & Additional Information Resources Mentioned: PR Lab: 150+ PR Statistics You Need to Understand the Industry in 2025 That Solo Life, Episode 215: From Barriers to Bridges with Mary Ellen Miller   Industries to Watch: Health technology and healthcare Financial technology (fintech) Infrastructure and public works Municipal and government communications Host & Show Info That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and advice for solo PR pros navigating today's dynamic professional landscape. Ready to transform your solo practice? Don't let this episode's insights go to waste! Take action today by identifying one new industry or networking opportunity you can explore this month. Whether it's attending a targeted industry event or meetup, connecting with your local government officials, or raising your rates, small steps lead to significant breakthroughs. Subscribe to That Solo Life on your favorite podcast platform and never miss an episode packed with practical strategies for independent PR professionals. Have questions or success stories to share? Reach out to the hosts at soloprpro.com - they'd love to hear from you!

Interview Date: January 5th, 2025Episode Summary:Larke Hasstedt, a talented dancer who transitioned from classical ballet to the commercial dance world. Larke, who was born into a dance family, began her training at a young age and eventually joined prestigious ballet companies like Pacific Northwest Ballet and Oregon Ballet Theater. However, her journey took a pivotal turn when she moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in commercial dance.Larke shares her story of moving to LA with nothing but a dream and a self-imposed deadline to make it work. Through persistence and dedication, she landed an agent and went on to work with major artists like Beyoncé, Britney Spears, Usher, and more. Larke talks about the challenges of transitioning from ballet to commercial styles like hip hop and heels and offers insights into how dancers can make a similar shift in their own careers.She also shares advice on the importance of versatility, mental resilience, and hard work in the dance industry. Larke's teaching style, which blends her classical ballet background with commercial dance techniques, has gained recognition for creating beautiful lines and fluid movement. This episode is filled with valuable lessons on adapting to different dance styles, developing your unique career, and staying dedicated to your craft.Tune in to learn more about Larke's journey and the lessons she's learned along the way.Show Notes:(0:00) Introduction to Larke's dance background(5:00) Growing up in a dance family and early ballet training(10:00) Joining prestigious ballet companies like Pacific Northwest Ballet and Oregon Ballet Theater(15:30) The pivotal moment: transitioning from ballet to commercial dance(22:00) Moving to Los Angeles with a dream and a year to make it work(28:00) Securing an agent and booking jobs with top artists like Beyoncé, Britney Spears, and Usher(35:30) Adjusting ballet technique to fit commercial dance styles like hip hop and heels(42:00) Challenges faced and lessons learned in the commercial dance world(47:30) The importance of versatility and mental resilience in building a dance career(53:00) Creating a signature teaching style blending classical ballet and commercial dance(59:00) Advice for dancers looking to make a similar transition into commercial dance(1:05:00) How to balance ballet and commercial dance and maintain growth in both area(1:12:00) Larke's experience teaching and the evolution of her heels class(1:18:00) Reflecting on the different worlds of ballet and commercial dance(1:23:00) Larke's favorite career highlights and unforgettable moments (Super Bowl, Coachella)(1:30:00) Advice for aspiring dancers: believing in yourself and staying focused(1:36:42) Closing thoughts and inspiration from LarkeBiography:Larke Hasstedt started her dance training out very early, as both of her parents were professional ballet dancers. She trained with Pacific Northwest Ballet,San Francisco Ballet,Boston Ballet,and eventually joined Oregon Ballet Theater when she was only 17 years old.She did 8 seasons with them before leaving for Los Angeles.Once moving to LA, she had a dance career of over 20 years dancing for such artists as Beyonce, Chris Brown, Usher, Britney Spears, Jlo, Ariana Grande, Missy Elliot, Ciara, Miley Cyrus, Neyo,Cardi B, Snoop, Pitbull, Nicki Minaj, Christina Aguilera,Tinashe, Pharell, Rihanna and many more. She has been on shows such as The Voice,Ellen, Jimmy Kimmel, America's Got Talent and performed at The VMAS, American Music Awards,The Superbowl, Coachella, Bet Awards, Billboard Awards, Latin Grammys, Dick Clark's Rockin NYE and the Grammys.Currently she is teaching and sharing everything she has learned from the Ballet world to the industry with the next generation.Connect on Social Media:https://www.instagram.com/alottalarkehttps://www.facebook.com/larke.hasstedt

The US Constitution provides a framework for securing liberty through decentralized, citizen-controlled law enforcement. Overlooked constitutional mechanisms—state militias and grand juries—empower citizens to hold government officials accountable for exceeding their delegated authority, without resorting to revolution. These mechanisms provide checks and balances against governmental overreach, emphasizing the importance of local control and the citizen's role as the ultimate authority. Learn more about these lawful and legitimate provisions that empower We The People to assert sovereignty and uphold constitutional self-governance. theendofguncontrol.com shop.everydaysamurai.life

Mark Dailey and Mark Hamilton sit down to enjoy a cool, late-summer breeze while discussing the latest news in the world of Formula 1. Stay off our lawns, you crazy kids! Looking for unique and authentic F1 merchandise? Check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.racingexclusives.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! Check out The RaceWknd magazine ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! Title music created by J.T. the Human: https://www.jtthehuman.com/ Join the conversation! Subscribe to the Scuderia F1 Podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Please leave us a rating and review if you enjoyed the show! Thanks for tuning in! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's the Ranch It Up Radio Show Herd It Here Weekly Report!  A 3-minute look at cattle markets, reports, news info, or anything that has to do with those of us who live at the end of dirt roads.  Join Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt, the Boss Lady Rebecca Wanner aka 'BEC' by subscribing on your favorite podcasting app or on the Ranch It Up Radio Show YouTube Channel. EPISODE 98 DETAILS “Public Lands” Rule Violation In Repeal The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has started the process to rescind the, Biden-era “Public Lands” rule. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) and Public Lands Council (PLC) challenged the rule in a 2024 lawsuit because it violated the multiple use mandate and would have paved the way for the federal government to remove family ranching operations and other uses from these working lands. Multiple stakeholders voiced their concerns that this rule clearly violated the multiple use mandate under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976. NCBA and PLC originally sued BLM over this rule in July of 2024 and were joined in this suit by the American Farm Bureau Federation, American Exploration and Mining Association, American Forest Resource Council, American Petroleum Institute, American Sheep Industry Association, National Mining Association, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, Natrona County Farm and Ranch Bureau, Western Energy Alliance, and Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation. REFERENCE:  https://www.agricultureofamerica.com/2025/09/10/blm-moves-to-rescind-biden-era-public-lands-rule-after-ncba-plc-lawsuit/ Herreid Livestock Set Nation Cattle Prices Dominating the national scene, Herreid sold five different groups of 10-weight steers that now rank among the top six highest 1,000 pound prices in U.S. history. Leading the charge were 174 head at 1,002 lbs bringing $356.50, followed by 59 head at 1,018 lbs for $355.75, and 116 head at 1,015 lbs at $355.00. Not far behind, 61 head at 1,002 lbs brought $350.75, and 124 head at 1,004 lbs sold for $349.50. Securing five of the top ten all-time national prices in one day, Herreid has firmly established itself as ground zero for premium heavyweight feeders in today's blazing-hot cattle market. Upcoming Bull & Heifer Sales On RanchChannel.Com Lot's of bull and heifer sales coming up on the RanchChannel.Com sale calendar.  Check out the full line up HERE. SPONSORS American Gelbvieh Association https://gelbvieh.org/ @AmericanGelbvieh   Axiota Animal Health https://axiota.com/ @AxiotaAnimalHealth   Jorgensen Land & Cattle https://jorgensenfarms.com/ @JorLandCat   Ranch Channel https://ranchchannel.com/ @RanchChannel   Superior Livestock Auctions https://superiorlivestock.com/ @SuperiorLivestockAuctions   Wulf Cattle https://www.wulfcattle.com/ @WulfCattle Questions & Concerns From The Field? Call or Text your questions, or comments to 707-RANCH20 or 707-726-2420 Or email RanchItUpShow@gmail.com FOLLOW Facebook/Instagram: @RanchItUpShow SUBSCRIBE to the Ranch It Up YouTube Channel: @ranchitup Website: RanchItUpShow.com https://ranchitupshow.com/ The Ranch It Up Podcast is available on ALL podcasting apps. https://ranchitup.podbean.com/ Rural America is center-stage on this outfit. AND how is that? Because of Tigger & BEC... Live This Western Lifestyle. Tigger & BEC represent the Working Ranch world by providing the cowboys, cowgirls, beef cattle producers & successful farmers the knowledge and education needed to bring high-quality beef & meat to your table for dinner. Learn more about Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca Wanner aka BEC here: TiggerandBEC.com https://tiggerandbec.com/

THE VIBEwith Kelly Cardenas presentsEver had everything lined up perfectly—only to watch it all fall apart because of one tiny overlooked detail? In this episode, Kelly Cardenas shares a hilarious but powerful story about spilling a protein shake all over his outfit and what it revealed about life, leadership, and Proverbs 9.From wardrobe malfunctions to forgotten Garth Brooks tickets, Kelly unpacks how wisdom and foolishness often sound the same—but only one leads to lasting results. The key? Securing the “top” by bringing God into every detail of your daily life.Through the Inchstones approach (small, intentional steps forward), Kelly shows how aligning heart, mind, and skills with The VIBE Method™ unlocks transformation:Heart (Belief): Respecting God as the foundation of wisdom.Mind (Intentions): Checking your decisions against truth, not just convenience.Skills (Actions): Securing the “top” so everything else holds together.Join the 7-day Proverbs challenge, explore how small Inchstones create lasting impact, and reflect on the one area in your life that needs the “top” secured. Plus, get the inside scoop on The VIBE Room live event, November 5—an unforgettable night of music, comedy, and conversations that can change your life.

Corinne Goble, CEO of the Association of Women's Business Centers, leads national efforts to expand opportunities for women entrepreneurs and strengthen the small business ecosystem through funding, advocacy, and support. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. Don't wait until you're desperate for funding. Start planning while you're still stable. 2. Funders care less about your dreams and more about your preparation. Have your plan, projections, and financials ready. 3. Securing capital isn't just about money; it's about mindset, strategy, and building the right support system. Check out Corinne's website for free tools, assessments, and support to take control of your business funding journey - Biz2Grow Sponsors HighLevel - The ultimate all-in-one platform for entrepreneurs, marketers, coaches, and agencies. Learn more at HighLevelFire.com. Shopify - If you want to see less carts being abandoned, it's time for you to head over to Shopify. Sign up for your 1 dollar per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/onfire. Airbnb - Your home might be worth more than you think. Find out how much at Airbnb.com/host. Gelt - Your year-round tax partner built for entrepreneurs, business owners, investors, and high net-worth individuals who want to keep more of what they earn. Get a personalized consultation and 10 percent off your first year when you mention Entrepreneurs on Fire. Visit JoinGelt.com/eof.

NOAA's Office of Space Commerce (OSC) has announced new solicitations for a “Commercial Conjunction Assessment Screening Services” (CASS) pilot program. Capgemini, Thales and Thales Alenia Space, have been selected by the French Space Agency (CNES) to lead an innovative demonstration of 5G direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity.  Maxar to partner with Anduril to supply the foundational geospatial intelligence that will underpin a next-generation mixed-reality command-and-control system (C2) for the US Army, and more. Remember to leave us a 5-star rating and review in your favorite podcast app. Be sure to follow T-Minus on LinkedIn and Instagram. Selected Reading TraCSS Update: Delivering on SPD-3 and Advancing Spaceflight Safety Trump Claws Back 2025 Funding for Commercial Space Office - Bloomberg Thales Alenia Space leads 5G direct-to-device demonstration for CNES with Capgemini and Thales Maxar Partners with Anduril to Power U.S. Army's Mixed-Reality Combat System Satellite farm imaging start-up Messium lands £3.3m to seed growth- Money News China launches new remote sensing satellite Acting Director Announced for Space Development Agency Darth Vader's lightsaber sells at auction for over $3.6 million - CBS News Share your feedback. What do you think about T-Minus Space Daily? Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts with us by completing our brief listener survey. Thank you for helping us continue to improve our show.  Want to hear your company in the show? You too can reach the most influential leaders and operators in the industry. Here's our media kit. Contact us at space@n2k.com to request more info. Want to join us for an interview? Please send your pitch to space-editor@n2k.com and include your name, affiliation, and topic proposal. T-Minus is a production of N2K Networks, your source for strategic workforce intelligence. © N2K Networks, Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During the administration of President Bill Clinton, Strobe Talbott, a close friend and confidante, served as Deputy Secretary of State. Historian Stephan Kieninger joins podcast editor Ron Granieri to discuss his new book, "Securing Peace in Europe: Strobe Talbott, NATO and Russia after the Cold War". Kieninger explains that Talbott consistently pursued both NATO enlargement and engagement with a reformed Russia, believing these two goals were not contradictory. The discussion highlights the differing approaches between the United States and Europe in engaging with Russia, a dynamic that continues to be relevant in current events.

In this Sunday brunch edition of the podcast, we welcome Arizona Congressman Andy Biggs, who discusses the weaponization of government and his candidacy for governor. Next, we head to Alabama to hear from Attorney General Steve Marshall about significant cases on his agenda, including his campaign for a US Senate seat. We wrap up with Ted Frank from the Hamilton Lincoln Law Institute, who shares insights on recent free speech victories, including a landmark case against California's attempt to ban AI-generated satire. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, GG Hawkins speaks with writer-director-producer Nora Fiffer about her debut feature Another Happy Day, and how she achieved a rare feat in indie filmmaking: shooting on strict eight‑hour days while providing on‑set childcare. The two explore how this family-friendly approach—driven by Fiffer's own journey into motherhood—shaped every stage of production, from scheduling and budgeting to set morale and creative decision-making. In this episode, No Film School's GG Hawkins, and guest Nora Fiffer discuss… The personal impetus behind Another Happy Day—how motherhood inspired the story and production values Creating a collaborative, theater-informed mindset that fueled preparation and efficiency Concrete strategies for implementing eight‑hour shooting days and on‑set childcare as non-negotiables in budget and schedule How fewer setups, lean shot lists, and actor preparation maximized time and morale Using fixed creative constraints as generative tools—not limitations Securing talent like Lauren Lapkus, Carrie Coon, and Marilyn Dodds Frank through personalized writing and deep connections Pitching the film to investors with equity and inclusion baked into its DNA (childcare prominently featured, even in opening credits) The importance of making such practices visible to normalize them across the industry Lessons learned in post-production—how the same efficiency and clarity from production didn't automatically carry over How Fiffer plans to carry this ethos forward in future projects Memorable Quotes “What the priority was emerging to shoot eight‑hour days, in addition to providing childcare, this now impacted how we were going to shoot it even before we got to production.” “By prioritizing childcare and the eight‑hour days in the budget… that was untouched.” “Everyone came with fresh ideas.” “I planned every moment, every beat… I knew the script, the story, the characters and the edit in my head so well.” Guests: Nora Fiffer — Writer, director, producer, actor of Another Happy Day Resources: Nora Fiffer, Another Happy Day I Really Love My Husband Instagram Find No Film School everywhere: On the Web: No Film School (https://nofilmschool.com/) Facebook: No Film School on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/nofilmschool) Twitter: No Film School on Twitter (https://twitter.com/nofilmschool) YouTube: No Film School on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/user/nofilmschool) Instagram: No Film School on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/nofilmschool)

Jim and Matt return from the Labor Day break with recent Dana White's Contender Series standout Donte Johnson and the great Jon Anik for today's episode of UFC Unfiltered.Fresh off a short-notice first-round knockout that secured his UFC contract, Johnson reflects on his rapid rise. Noticeably slimmer than the 297-pound collegiate defensive lineman who first walked into an MMA gym, the undefeated 6-0 prospect explains how the best version of himself may be found at light heavyweight or even middleweight.Between interviews, Jim and Matt trade picks for this Saturday's UFC Paris card before welcoming Jon Anik. The voice of the Octagon discusses the middleweight title picture, reflects on his hilarious cameo with Michael Bisping in The Naked Gun (2025), and shares what it means to call TKO's splashy entry into boxing with the Canelo vs. Crawford megafight — live on Netflix September 13.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In Part 2 of the Olympic Park bombing series, Sheryl McCollum talks with Kent Alexander, who served as U.S. Attorney during the investigation. Alexander recalls the tense hours after the blast, the FBI and media’s rush to label Richard Jewell a suspect, and the non-target letter that cleared him. He also explains how Eric Rudolph became the focus, what investigators learned from the case, and how his book The Suspect grew into Clint Eastwood’s film Richard Jewell. Kent Alexander served as U.S. Attorney for Northern District of Georgia during the Olympic Park bombing investigation. He is the co-author of The Suspect, the book that became the basis for Clint Eastwood’s film Richard Jewell. To learn more about Kent Alexander, visit The Suspect Highlights: (0:00) Sheryl introduces guest Kent Alexander, former U.S. Attorney during the Olympic Park bombing (2:45) The 911 call and Alexander’s first moments of the investigation (5:30) Securing evidence and rebuilding the bomb (8:15) Remembering victims Alice Hawthorne and Melih Uzunyol (9:15) Media and FBI rush to judgment against Richard Jewell (12:30) The non-target letter that cleared Richard Jewell (17:30) Eric Rudolph emerges as the true bomber (22:00) Alexander start writing The Suspect, documenting the case (25:15) Understanding Eric Rudolph’s motives and methods (30:00) Sheryl recall firsthand stories of victims and media exposure (33:15) How The Suspect became the film Richard Jewell (37:00) “He was a hero. What he did saved a lot of lives.” - Kent Alexander on Richard Jewell Enjoying Zone 7? Leave a rating and review. Your feedback helps others find the show and supports our mission to educate and investigate. --- Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an Emmy Award-winning CSI, a writer for CrimeOnline, forensic and crime scene expert for Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, and co-author of the textbook Cold Case: Pathways to Justice. She is the founder and director of the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute, a national collaboration that advances techniques for solving cold cases and assists families and law enforcement with unsolved homicides, missing persons, and kidnappings. Social Links: Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com Twitter: @ColdCaseTips Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum Instagram: @officialzone7podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

- Anniversary of Japanese Surrender and U.S. Occupation (0:10) - Trump's Tariffs and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (2:34) - Impact of Trump's Tariffs on U.S. Allies and Global Relations (9:21) - Challenges of Shifting Manufacturing to the U.S. (10:02) - AI and Knowledge Mining (14:07) - Trump's Criticism of Operation Warp Speed and Vaccines (24:27) - The Future of Medicine and AI (30:09) - Economic and Political Implications of Trump's Policies (48:20) - Interview with Don Brown on Power Grid Security (48:40) - Strategies for Securing the Power Grid (1:16:29) - Challenges of Depending on Foreign Manufacturers (1:19:14) - Rising Domestic Tensions and Power Grid Vulnerabilities (1:23:35) - Legislation and Cyber Threats (1:30:16) - Protecting Against EMP and Solar Threats (1:32:37) - Preparedness and Personal Responsibility (1:37:42) - Final Thoughts and Recommendations (1:41:12) For more updates, visit: http://www.brighteon.com/channel/hrreport NaturalNews videos would not be possible without you, as always we remain passionately dedicated to our mission of educating people all over the world on the subject of natural healing remedies and personal liberty (food freedom, medical freedom, the freedom of speech, etc.). Together, we're helping create a better world, with more honest food labeling, reduced chemical contamination, the avoidance of toxic heavy metals and vastly increased scientific transparency. ▶️ Every dollar you spend at the Health Ranger Store goes toward helping us achieve important science and content goals for humanity: https://www.healthrangerstore.com/ ▶️ Sign Up For Our Newsletter: https://www.naturalnews.com/Readerregistration.html ▶️ Brighteon: https://www.brighteon.com/channels/hrreport ▶️ Join Our Social Network: https://brighteon.social/@HealthRanger ▶️ Check In Stock Products at: https://PrepWithMike.com