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As New Yorkers go to the polls, Savage warns about the Muslim takeover of New York City. He urges New York residents to flee to conservative states as the city could elect COMMUNIST Zohran Mamdani. He then exposes the alarming rise of radical Islam throughout the United States and Europe. He laments the decline in Western countries due to weak political leadership. He wraps up the show by encouraging listeners to break away from their screens, experience the world outside, and appreciate the little moments while we can.
For episode 620 of the BlockHash Podcast, host Brandon Zemp is joined by Rens Troost, Founder & CTO of Rational Exponent.Their flagship platform, RE:Agent, empowers customers to adapt quickly to evolving regulatory requirements with actionable intelligence, dynamic controls, and strategic risk insights embedded directly into operational workflows. Purpose-built for scalability, transparency, and agility, Rational Exponent makes it possible for organizations to maximize operational performance and accelerate growth while remaining grounded in prudent, compliant risk management. Rens brings 30+ years of leadership experience, from early-stage startups to NASDAQ-listed companies. He's a repeat founder, board member, and CTO for Rational Exponent, an AI-native fintech company coming out of Stealth to start the movement for building banks of the future. ⏳ Timestamps: (0:00) Introduction(0:57) Who is Rens Troost?(3:21) What is RE:Agent?(6:36) RE:Agent use-cases(10:42) Impact of AGI(14:38) Guardrails for AGI(20:14) Goals at Money20/20(23:05) Contact Rational Exponent
We love to hear from our listeners. Send us a message. On this week's episode of the Business of Biotech, we're speaking with Bernard Ravina, M.D., CEO at Vima Therapeutics, a company that emerged from stealth in May with $60 million Series A financing to develop an oral candidate for dystonia, a movement disorder. Ravina talks about transitioning from government and academic medicine to industry, partnering with Atlas Ventures and defining the company's thesis, the reasons behind working in stealth mode and when to emerge, and the clinical plan and potential for VIM0423. Access this and hundreds of episodes of the Business of Biotech videocast under the Business of Biotech tab at lifescienceleader.com. Subscribe to our monthly Business of Biotech newsletter. Get in touch with guest and topic suggestions: ben.comer@lifescienceleader.comFind Ben Comer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bencomer/
Infertility isn't always about age or hormones—sometimes the real culprits are hidden, silent root causes that standard medicine rarely investigates. In this powerful conversation, we explore the cutting-edge research and clinical insights that are changing the way we understand fertility struggles and recurrent pregnancy loss.Joining me on this episode is Dr. Natalie Underberg, a leading voice in functional medicine, women's health, and fertility. She runs her own private practice, and she is also the founder of FIG Wellness, a faith-based supplement company known for its science-backed formulations and their leading HIS&HERS prenatal vitamins — world-class products that feature industry-leading doses of crucial nutrients like 900 mg of choline, setting a new standard in perinatal nutrition and were formulated specifically by Dr. Natalie and her husban,d Dr. Jake.Dr. Natalie has helped hundreds of couples achieve natural pregnancies by uncovering and addressing the root causes of hormonal imbalances, PCOS, gut dysfunction, and recurrent pregnancy loss. She is also the creator of The PCOS Collective and The Pregnancy Prep Academy — educational programs designed to empower women to take control of their health and fertility with personalized, root-cause care.Her work blends clinical expertise, real-life experience, and faith-centered guidance to support couples in stewarding their health and fertility naturally, without unnecessary medications or fertility procedures.
In this episode we speak with Yossi Barishev - one of the most watched founders in cybersecurity today. He's led security operations and innovation at Sygnia and Fireblocks, advised Fortune 500s, and now, he's building a stealth-mode venture focused on rethinking identity and trust in the age of AI. He's been recognized by outlets like Business Insider, NYTech Media, and NewsBlaze as a leader shaping the future of cybersecurity. This episode is about uncertainty, self-trust, and building the internal tools to lead through volatility. In this conversation, we explore: The trap of seeking external validation. Early on, Yossi found himself chasing reassurance from more experienced founders - until he realized that the same validation could shake him when things got hard. “If you trust this external validation too much, whenever some negative signal comes in, it shakes you.” Learning to trust your internal compass. With time, his confidence shifted inward “There's literally zero way to predict what the hell this journey throws at you… I just believed in my ability to be able to deal with it.” The power of throwing yourself into deep water His biggest moments of growth came when everything was uncertain - and the only path was forward. “The times where I usually flourish the most - it's when my back is against the wall.” Introducing chaos - on your own terms. Rather than waiting for life to disrupt him, Yossi learned to lean into difficult, high-stakes situations. “If you're able to introduce chaos in a controlled manner, it teaches you a lot more.” Becoming the Swiss Army knife. Yossi chose adaptability over specialization, learning how to show up confidently in any scenario. “Honestly- just throw me in the Bronx with no cash and no clothes. I'll work it out.” Comparing yourself to others - and what to do with that. He reflects honestly on the emotional weight of watching peers raise money and start companies first. “What did they have that I lack?” Using doubt as fuel. Naysayers weren't discouragement - they were motivation. “Even if I don't have the answers right now, I believe in my ability to find them… I was like, I'm going to show you that you're wrong.” How he thinks about advice and mentorship. Advice, he says, is always a mix of data and subjective perspective - and the most useful mentors are those who've failed often. “Every single advisor I have is someone who made more mistakes than right decisions.” This episode is for anyone navigating self-doubt, forging a nonlinear path, or learning to lead without a blueprint.
In this special Halloween edition of Project Synapse, Marcel Gagner, John Pinard, and Jim Love discuss the latest happenings in the AI world. From Google's quiet strategic launches and vibe coding advancements to the discussion on AI bubbles and economic implications, this episode covers it all. They delve into AI's transformative potential, showcasing live demos on Google's AI Studio, and discuss the immense impact of AI on businesses. Join us for an insightful session as we explore the future of AI and its real-world applications. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:16 Welcome to Project Synapse 00:20 Marcel's Grim Reaper Entrance 00:47 Discussion on AI Bubble 02:04 Google's Quiet Innovations 07:27 Google Home and Smart Devices 15:15 AI's Impact on Society and Economy 20:42 The Future of AI and Code Automation 37:08 AI Model Limitations and Analogies 38:12 The Future of AI Researchers 39:54 AI's Impact on Chip Makers and Market Dynamics 42:50 Rapid Advancements in AI Tools 43:18 Hands-On Experience with AI Coding 48:34 The Cost and Practicality of AI Tools 01:03:23 The Importance of AI in Business Strategy 01:08:48 Live Demo: Building an AI-Powered Note-Taking App 01:16:26 Final Thoughts and Future Outlook
Enjoyed this episode or the podcast in general? Send me a text message:The horizon over the Pacific is crowded with sensors, and the old playbook doesn't cut it anymore. We break down how the B‑21 Raider resets modern airpower with stealth tuned for infrared as much as radar, intercontinental reach that sidesteps tanker risk, and a digital backbone that upgrades at the speed of software. This isn't a shinier B‑2—it's a systems shift designed for a sensor‑rich fight across the first and second island chains.We start with the uncomfortable truth: the bomber fleet is old and thin. B‑52s date to the Kennedy era, B‑1s and B‑2s aren't far behind, and there are only nineteen Spirits to go around. The Raider answers with scale and survivability, aiming for at least a hundred airframes that can penetrate dense air defenses and still deliver effects. The second B‑21's maiden flight flew clean—no external test gear—because the digital twin aligned with real‑world data, accelerating test schedules and boosting confidence in the design. Two airframes now let the Air Force split focus: one validates aerodynamics, the other tackles mission systems, weapons, and readiness.We then peel back the stealth story where it matters most: heat. By burying engines and spreading exhaust through flattened channels, the B‑21 manages infrared signature against IRST and passive sensors. Next‑gen RAM coatings, smoother intakes, and refined canopy geometry drive down radar cross section across more frequencies with better durability. The aircraft's smaller size is intentional—precision weapons and a larger fleet beat massive payloads on a few jets. Under the skin, open systems architecture decouples hardware and software, enabling rapid sensor, EW, and weapon upgrades without depot drama. That flexibility lets the Raider act as more than a finisher: it can scout, manage battles, relay comms, and strike—all in one sortie.Looking ahead, optional manning turns the bomber into a force multiplier. Crewed, it can lead swarms of collaborative combat aircraft and make judgment calls at the edge. Uncrewed, it can loiter for days, reduce risk, and extend the kill chain deep behind defenses. By combining range, all‑spectrum low observability, and software‑defined adaptability, the B‑21 is built for the mission set we actually face. If this breakdown helped you see the future of airpower more clearly, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a review with the one feature you think matters most.Support the showTo help support this podcast and become a PilotPhotog ProCast member: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1555784/supportIf you enjoy this episode, subscribe to this podcast, you can find links to most podcast streaming services here: PilotPhotog Podcast (buzzsprout.com) Sign up for the free weekly newsletter Hangar Flyingwith Tog here: https://hangarflyingwithtog.com You can check out my YouTube channel for many videos on fighter planes here: https://youtube.com/c/PilotPhotog If you'd like to support this podcast via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PilotPhotog And finally, you can follow me on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/pilotphotog
From wearing masks to concealing identities of vehicles, agents are raising concerns in Illinois and other states.
Stealth tank, or Celtics winning culture at all costs? After a decade of winning basketball, Celtics fans aren't quite sure how to digest what is in front of them. We discuss the ideal plan forward, and how best to characterize this season.
Join Illyria, Maggie, and Dugg'r as they navigate the tense aftermath of a controversial play in Elmbrook. Coronation fever turns to scandal when a theatrical performance hints at political upheaval. The trio finds themselves amidst a thrilling commotion as soldiers close in on a missing actor. Stealth, subterfuge, and a touch of humour play out in this suspenseful episode.Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj6l7zTjUAl6U_n2xEaT-dg/join▶ CHAPTERS:00:00 Last time...02:16 Tension Rises Among the Audience09:17 A Sneaky Investigation18:25 Stealth Mission Begins20:27 The Hat Heist28:35 Final Thoughts and Credits▶ CREDITSOpening credits artwork by James RPG Art: http://www.patreon.com/jamesrpgartOpening credits theme 'Rise' by Isaac Finch3D Character Design by Aiden Bunyan using HeroForge under a Media Usage license.▶ DISCLAIMERSBardic Quest is unofficial Fan Content permitted under the © Wizards of the Coast LLC Fan Content Policy. This show is not sponsored, endorsed, approved, or affiliated with © Wizards of the Coast LLC.
This week the guys talk about the struggles of parenting, completing the Death Stranding 2 platinum trophy, Borderlands 4 and much much more!
S2E15: Digital Empathy, Cyber Resilience, and the New Health IT Paradigm: CHIME's Vision Host: Frank Cutitta Guest: Calli Dretke, EVP, Chief Digital & Marketing Officer, CHIME To stream our Station live 24/7 visit www.HealthcareNOWRadio.com or ask your Smart Device to “….Play Healthcare NOW Radio”. Find all of our network podcasts on your favorite podcast platforms and be sure to subscribe and like us. Learn more at www.healthcarenowradio.com/listen
Dr. Eoin O'Malley, Associate Professor in Political Science at DCU Dr. Barra Roantree, Assistant Professor Trinity College Dublin
The founders of machine learning community Kaggle are trying to upend the crowded sales prospecting market with AI. And they're making headway. Also, Starbridge raises $42M Series A led by Craft Ventures to help businesses better monitor public service opportunities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
This episode explains the government's plan to recalculate RPI from 2030 and why it matters for business owners. We unpack the differences between RPI, CPI, and CPIH, and show how the change could reduce annual contract increases, affecting rent reviews, supplier agreements, utilities, pensions, and long-term client contracts. We highlight opportunities (lower costs for buyers, a chance to modernise contracts) and threats (reduced revenue for sellers, indexation mismatches across your contracts), and give a clear action plan: review and update contract wording now, assess supply-chain impacts, and prepare for contract renewals well before 2030. ⭐ Rate, Review & Share this episode with fellow business owners, and let's grow together! ⭐ Subscribe to the weekly newsletter to get Expert Advice Straight to Your Inbox: https://www.profitcashgrowth.com/subscribe ⭐ Get a Free copy of Claire's book Profit By Numbers: https://www.profitcashgrowth.com/book VALUABLE RESOURCES Website LinkedIn YouTube Facebook ABOUT THE HOST: Claire Hancott through Profit Cash Growth helps 6 & 7 figure business owners to increase their profit, improve their cashflow and grow their business using their numbers. As a finance director & chartered management accountant, Claire has nearly 20 years' experience in finance and running businesses of her own. This gives her a unique insight into the information and support business owners need to grow a financially successful business. Claire passionately believes that every business should be run by the numbers because the numbers in your business are telling you a story about what is and isn't working and where your opportunities lie. Claire's mission is to provide insightful management accounts, reports and advice to business owners and support them to make smarter decisions. *The content of this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.
Stories we're following this morning at Progress Texas:Without notifying city officials, Governor Greg Abbott has sent Texas DPS officers and other state agencies into Austin's homeless encampments to arrest and disperse them: https://www.texastribune.org/2025/10/21/greg-abbott-homelessness-sweeps-austin/..Meanwhile, the Governor was in Cypress yesterday at an event at which he pledged to "turn Harris County dark red": https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/education/article/gov-abbott-vows-turn-harris-county-dark-red-21111657.phpAlso in Houston, the City tore out the Montrose rainbow crosswalk on Abbott's orders overnight Monday morning - four protestors present were arrested: https://thebarbedwire.com/2025/10/20/houston-removes-rainbow-pride-crosswalk-abbott/...In San Antonio, the local LGBTQ+ advisory board is calling on the city to resist the removal of its rainbow crosswalk, including the threat of lawsuits against the state: https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/san-antonio-rainbow-crosswalk-fight-21110014.php...In Dallas, Oak Lawn United Baptist Church is painting its massive concrete steps in rainbow colors in an impressive and inspiring display of solidarity: https://dallasvoice.com/olumc-steps-up-to-the-fight/Perhaps surprising to see Texas cattle ranchers as the latest group to speak up against Trump policies, as the President advocates for more beef imports from Argentina: https://www.houstonchronicle.com/politics/texas/article/sid-miller-trump-beef-prices-argentina-21111963.phpAs the federal government shutdown begins its third week, with Democrats holding out in defense of affordable health insurance, the Trump administration has slashed a program designed to help Texas sign up for the ACA: https://www.texastribune.org/2025/10/22/texas-aca-navigator-funding/Trump's immigration crackdown is significantly weakening the Texas job market: https://www.tpr.org/news/2025-10-21/federal-immigration-crackdown-slowing-texas-job-growthYoung Republicans of Texas have expressed solidarity with that other young Republicans group recently disbanded over racist and otherwise disgusting views expressed in that group's chat: https://www.chron.com/politics/article/young-republicans-texas-group-chat-21109613.phpCheck out our 2025 Texas Statewide Voting Guide, including a link at the bottom for a printable version you CAN take with you to the polls: https://progresstexas.org/blog/2025-texas-statewide-ballot-guideThanks for listening! Our monthly donors form the backbone of our funding, and if you're a regular, we'd like to invite you to join the team! Find our web store and other ways to support our important work at https://progresstexas.org.
In Part 1 of our discussion on Giovanni Boccaccio's The Decameron, we welcome editor Wayne A. Rebhorn to discuss the author's life and historical times, similarities among Boccaccio, Petrarch, and Dante, and the use of storytelling to both distract and make meaning during catastrophic times. Wayne A. Rebhorn is the Celanese Centennial Professor of English at the University of Texas, where he teaches English, Italian, and comparative literature. His translation of Boccaccio's Decameron won the 2014 PEN Center USA's Literary Award for Translation.To learn more or purchase a copy of the Norton Library edition of The Decameron, go to https://wwnorton.com/books/9780393427882.Learn more about the Norton Library series at https://wwnorton.com/norton-library.Have questions or suggestions for the podcast? Email us at nortonlibrary@wwnorton.com or find us on Twitter at @TNL_WWN and Bluesky at @nortonlibrary.bsky.social.
Matthew tells us that Jesus is arrested deceitfully, or by stealth. What does that mean? Let's find out together as we read Matthew 26:1-5 and Daniel 8:15-27.
Recorded in person in Central Park, NYC just before Project Lab Coat at New York Fashion Week (NYFW), this Tick Boot Camp Podcast features Dr. Bill Rawls on what helps chronic Lyme patients move from overwhelm to progress. We talk immune-first strategy, why antibiotics often fall short in chronic cases, how to protect the gut, and a stepwise plan that reduces flare risk and builds confidence. Episode snapshot Dr. Rawls explains why stealth microbes like Borrelia, Bartonella, and Babesia grow slowly and hide in tissues, which is why a quick-fix antibiotic approach often disappoints in chronic illness. We discuss a four-phase healing framework — prehabilitation, assist the immune system, rehabilitation, and maintenance (PARM) — and how a gradual, system-calming on-ramp helps patients tolerate protocols without crashing. We also dig into gut protection, community support, and how AI can speed education and research. What you will learn Why “assist the immune system” beats “kill at all costs” for chronic Lyme Stealth microbe biology and why slow growth changes the treatment playbook Antibiotic overuse risks including microbiome injury and antibiotic resistance Gut and detox support as foundations for energy, sleep, and resilience A stepwise entry to treatment that reduces flares and anxiety Key herbs with evidence for tick-borne infections and immune modulation Community and education as levers for consistency and long-term success How AI tools can accelerate research, writing, and practical guidance Key topics and takeaways Four phases of recovery: prehab, assist, rehab, maintenance Antibiotics in chronic Lyme: may disrupt the gut before meaningfully impacting slow-growing pathogens Herbal strategy: sustained pressure over time with immune support Gradual on-ramp: calm the nervous system first, then gut and detox, then stronger antimicrobials Team sport: combine self-care, educated use of providers, and moderated community support Herbs and supports mentioned Antimicrobial herbs: Japanese knotweed, Chinese skullcap, Cryptolepis, cat's claw, garlic Immune-modulating adaptogens: reishi, cordyceps Supportive nutrients: B vitamins, minerals, NAC, glutathione Formats: capsules and tinctures were discussed, including products like Advanced Biotic and Biome Boost within larger protocols Patient-friendly pacing Months 1–2: calm sympathetic overdrive, improve sleep, stabilize Months 3–4: protect gut, support detox, keep gentle antimicrobial pressure Months 5–6: advance to stronger combinations when the body is ready Ongoing: measure progress, maintain gain, prevent backsliding Notable quotes “The immune system always wins the game. Your job is to assist it.” “Stealth microbes grow slowly and hide in tissues. The strategy has to match the biology.” “Education and a supportive community reduce fear and make consistency possible.” Resources and links Watch the video version of this podcast interview on YouTube Read our NYFW Recap: Tick Boot Camp models at Project Labcoat and Why it Matters for Lyme Awareness, Research, and Funding
Stealth Talent CEO Phil Ranta joins the show to discuss the future of creator IP, the rise of the "clipping" economy, and why brand deals are drying up. From AI's unstoppable impact to new companies turning influence into equity, this episode covers the seismic shifts happening right now.Also: Is MrBeast launching a bank? Why are streamers suddenly getting paid to watch old game shows? In this episode, you'll learn:- How creators are now monetizing classic TV shows.- The secret world of content clipping that made Joe Rogan a household name.- MrBeast's next big move into the financial services industry.- How creators can turn their influence into long-term equity.00:00 Guest Co-Host Phil Ranta Intro01:03 Inside the Creator IQ Conference03:19 Is AI a Tool or a Threat?06:33 Gaggl: Get Paid to Watch TV13:50 Creators Rebooting Classic Game Shows18:09 The "Clipping" Economy Explained21:02 Why MrBeast Launched a Clipping Company23:45 Is MrBeast Starting a Bank?26:57 Phil Ranta on Stealth TalentCreator Upload is your creator economy podcast, created by Lauren Schnipper and Joshua Cohen.Follow Lauren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schnipper/Follow Josh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuajcohen/Original music by London Bridge: https://www.instagram.com/londonbridgemusic/Edited and produced by Adam Conner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamonbrand
Stealth camping is a great skill to develop and a fantastic option to have for emergencies or maybe even your main overnight plan on a bike tour. But what if your tent is so bright it can be seen from miles away? On this episode, we talk about what worked for my last tent and what I'm trying on my newer one. Originally podcast September 8, 2022. Making a Tent Stealthier The old tent – ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 2 Spray panting the tarp Tarp was orange so it needed full coverage Used a matte forest green Took 3 full cans to cover (more than I expected) Then covered with a waterproofing spray (think KIWI brand) Tarp worked like a charm – water beaded off just like before Was stiffer and heavier than before Tarp has finally failed at the zippers so it needs to be replaced Color has also worn off over time, although it still is predominantly well covered The newer tent -ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 2 (again) New tent is blue and very light gray, tarp is mostly the light gray Better than orange, but still needs stealthification Redditor recommended Rit dying I was a bit skeptical but decided to go for it Got 2 dark forest greens and 1 chocolate brown that was designed for nylon A lot of boiling water (9 gallons!) and a big bin Let it get in there overnight and… It sort of worked. It's super brown on one side, but perhaps predictably the back of the tarp, not the water repellant side So, dye job is not recommended Before, during and after shots: What am I going to do? I have one tarp that is forest green but not terribly suitable for heavy rain I have another tarp that is very light gray and perfect for rain The reverse side is dark brown and not suitable for anything but dry weather I'm bringing *both* tarps for my next tour I can see where a brown tarp and a green tarp could help depending on where I'm tucked in I need to know I have a good rain option I don't always need to be stealth The lineup No need for stealth? Use the new tarp in the normal position regardless of weather Stealth and dry? Use green tarp for tent and brown side out tarp for the bike (or maybe vice versa) Stealth and rain? Use the green tarp over the proper-side-out gray tarp. This is the least likely scenario in a way… if it's really storming would people be out? Takeaways Folks, best bet is to get a tent with a slealthy tarp. They are weirdly hard to come by Dye? Not recommended Spray paint? Effective, but with its flaws.
Piyush Sharrma is the co-founder and CEO of Tuskira, a pioneering threat defense platform leveraging an AI-powered security mesh, which launched out of stealth mode with $28.5 million in funding. In this episode, he joins host Scott Schober to discuss the announcement, what the funding will be used for, and more. • For more on cybersecurity, visit us at https://cybersecurityventures.com.
Y'all aren't washing your hands and we're disappointed in you, get your dog Halloween costumes ready because Barktoberfest is this weekend, Alexis is preparing her Labubu wigs, Tyra Banks has invented "hot ice cream," RIP iconic illustrator Drew Struzan, and Taylor Swift's stealth generosity revealed by Ruby RoseSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
They won't ask you politely. Digital IDs and CBDCs are being framed as “convenience,” but the real risk is consent by stealth, where everyday logins, document scans, and biometrics quietly become your single point of control.In this episode, I'm joined by economist Miles Harris to break down the rollout mechanics (One Login, public-private partnerships, verified ID checks), how programmable money links to identity, and, most importantly, practical steps to protect your sovereignty while we return to our roots: community, cash, hard assets, and local food.What you'll learn- How Digital ID differs from passports/driver's licenses (centralised, interoperable databases)- Why biometric onboarding (document scan + selfie/video) is the critical gateway- CBDCs 101: from messaging standards (ISO 20022) to programmable money & spending rules- Real-world cues of soft coercion (“for your safety,” single sign-on, pilot schemes)- UK context: company directors, NHS/app integration, and timing signals- Practical moves: maintain paper alternatives, use cash, diversify with hard assets, strengthen local/community supply (food, water, skills)⏰In this episode: 00:19 Introduction to Digital ID and CBDCs01:22 Meet My Guest: Miles Harris03:24 Understanding Digital ID06:11 The Global Agenda and Digital ID21:18 The Role of CBDCs in Control24:19 Practical Advice for Financial Sovereignty26:52 Community and Resistance Strategies39:28 Final Thoughts 42:06 Enhancing Your Energy FieldConnect with Miles: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@milesharris5315 X (Twitter): x.com/MilesHarrisLGA Substack: substack.com/ @milesharris Resources mentioned: • UK Government “One Login” • Probity/conditional trust protest info: probity chat with Rich: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avsDZ0Dtoq4
In this week's episode, we warn against six different scams targeting indie authors. I also take a look at my advertising results for September 2025. This coupon code will get you 50% off the audiobook of Cloak of Wolves, Book #2 in the Cloak Mage series, (as excellently narrated by Hollis McCarthy) at my Payhip store: WOLVESAUDIO The coupon code is valid through October 20, 2025. So if you need a new audiobook this fall, we've got you covered! TRANSCRIPT 00:00:00 Introduction and Writing Update Hello, everyone. Welcome to Episode 272 of The Pulp Writer Show. My name is Jonathan Moeller. Today is October 10th, 2025, and today we are looking at six common scams that target indie authors. We'll also look at my advertising results for September 2025 and some changes I will make because of that. But first, let's start with Coupon of the Week and a progress update on my current writing projects. First up, Coupon of the Week. This week's coupon code will get you 50% off the audiobook of Cloak of Wolves, Book #2 in the Cloak Mage series (as excellently narrated by Hollis McCarthy), at my Payhip store. That coupon code is WOLVESAUDIO, and as always, the coupon code and the link to my Payhip store will be available in the show notes for this episode. This coupon code is valid through October 20th, 2025. So if you need a new audiobook for this fall, we have got you covered. Now an update on my current writing and audiobook projects, I'm pleased to report the rough draft of Cloak of Worlds is done at 107,500 words. I think it's going to end up being about 30 chapters or so once I finish editing and I'm going to start editing very shortly. Before I start editing, I am going to write a short story called False Iron set in the world of Nadia and newsletter subscribers will get a free ebook copy of False Iron when Cloak of Worlds comes out, hopefully before the end of the month (if all goes well). I am also 11,000 words into Blade of Shadows, the second book in my Blades of Ruin epic fantasy series that will be my next main project after Cloak of World is published. In audiobook news, Ghosts in the Siege (as excellently narrated by Hollis McCarthy) is done and it's processing through the various platforms. I believe as of right now you can get it at Payhip, Kobo, and Google Play and then hopefully it should be available at the other stores within a few weeks. Brad Wills is starting work on the audiobook of Blade of Flames. In early 2026, I believe we should have the final audiobook from the Stealth and Spells series from C.J. McAllister. So that is where I'm at with my current writing and publishing projects. 00:02:18 Ad Results for September 2025 [Amounts Mentioned Are in USD] Now let's take a look back at some of my ad results for September 2025. First, the big changes. I am going to either give Facebook ads a rest for a while or more likely continue them in a very more limited way with a more focused strategy. As I've mentioned before, Meta has been shoving all this Advantage Plus AI stuff into Facebook ads and it just doesn't work. The key for online advertising, especially with books, is to narrow your target audience as much as possible and the Advantage Plus AI stuff all goes for a broad audience. To test that out, I did a couple of experiments. I didn't advertise Frostborn with Facebook ads in August, but I did advertise them with Facebook ads in September. The end result was I actually made $20 less from Frostborn in September than I did in August, but I also had the advertising expense for the month of September, so I made less overall. I also tried the reverse of that experiment. I advertised Cloak Games and Cloak Mage in August with Facebook, but not in September. The end result was that Cloak Games and Cloak Mage made about $200 less in September, but without the cost of advertising, that meant the profit was substantially higher. So I'm not sure if Facebook ads are effective or as effective as they used to be any longer (thanks generative AI), but in the [interest of] full testing, it'll experiment with it a bit more. I did try one ad campaign entirely with Advantage Plus this month and it was objectively terrible. I do not recommend using Advantage Plus for anything if you are advertising anything on Facebook. I probably will end up doing Facebook ads in a more focused way, similar to the way I do my BookBub ads, where I will set a time limited ad for one of my permafree books for four days or so and then shut it off when it's done because BookBub ads tend to work well the first three days and then lose their punch after. So I might end up doing something similar with Facebook ads, but we will report more on that in November once we finish with October's advertisement results. Meanwhile, Amazon ads did a lot better. Here are some of the campaigns I ran. Remember, for an Amazon ad to be successful, it needs to generate a sale or complete Kindle Unlimited read through for every six through eight clicks. For Demonsouled Omnibus One, I got back $2.44 for every dollar spent, with one sale for every 1.41 clicks. For Half-Elven Thief, I got back $1.31 for every dollar spent, with one sale for every 2.48 clicks. For Half-Elven Thief Omnibus One, 48% of the profit came from the audiobook for that one. I got back $10.13 for every dollar spent, with one sale for every 1.26 clicks. For Stealth and Spells Online: Creation, it did really well, with $24.01 for every dollar spent, with one sale for every 0.66 clicks. That was still enjoying the halo result from the release of Final Quest earlier this year. For Cloak Mage Omnibus One, I got back $3.64 for every dollar spent, with 65% of the profit coming from the audiobook and one sale for every 0.61 clicks. For Sevenfold Sword Omnibus One, I got back $3.47 for every $1 spent and one sale for every 2.42 clicks. For Dragontiarna Omnibus One, I got back $13.40 for every dollar spent and one sale for every 1.2 clicks. Out of all my campaigns. I only had one campaign that lost money, but it lost a grand total of $1.48, so that was good. So we can also see that omnibus editions definitely do very well with Amazon ads, especially if they have attached audiobooks. It turns out finishing Stealth and Spells Online made it a lot easier to advertise. A finished series is a lot easier to advertise than an incomplete one (who knew?). Though if I really want to kick up Half-Elven Thief, I need to write another book in the series, which I plan to do later this year. Once Cloak of Worlds is published, I will start on that. As I mentioned earlier, I'm also [doing] a variety of BookBub ads for my permafree books on Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Google Play, and Apple; these consistently do very well since it's a lot cheaper to get clicks through the non-Amazon stores for books when you're advertising them on BookBub. So that's where my ads are for September 2025. As I mentioned, I'm going to experiment a bit more with Facebook ads in October and November, but the end result (even if I have good results) is I'm going to use them a lot less than I used to moving forward because targeting is somewhat harder. That means it's time to start thinking about other marketing ideas. There is precedent. I resisted using Facebook ads for four years before I started experimenting with them in early 2020, so maybe it's time (after dragging my feet on the idea for five years) to start playing with short form video in 2026. That seems to be where all the growth and all the eyeballs seem to be. You may have noticed that the previous episode of this podcast, Episode 271 was the first one that was on YouTube, and it seems to have been a good idea since that doubled the amount of views an episode usually gets. So I may have more video experiments coming soon, but we'll see, and as always, thank you for reading, everyone and it would be pointless to advertise the books if people didn't want to read them, and that is a fact for which I am very grateful. 00:07:26 Main Topic of the Week: Six Scams Targeting Indie Authors Now on to our main (and to be honest, somewhat less enjoyable) main topic this week, six scams that are targeting indie authors. The old saying was, “there's a sucker born every minute”, but in the year of our Lord 2025, I think it's more accurate to say there's an AI powered scammer born every minute. As you might've gathered from my tone about this, I admit to being pretty annoyed by how many scam emails I get related to writing and indie publishing. These days it's pretty constant and they tend to cluster around when I have a new release. Some bot (or more realistically, a whole bunch of bots) is presumably scanning all new releases and then turns out a bunch of scammy emails when it detects a new book. I despise these people because they prey upon the vulnerable for money, which is wrong. Imagine a 75-year-old who just self-published the novel he or she has been working on for the last 30 years and finally decided to finish in retirement. Then they get a ChatGPT generated email from “John Grisham” praising their book in detail and asking for some money for marketing services. A lot of people would have absolutely no mental defense against this kind of scam, like someone from modern earth encountering a wizard who can cast illusion spells. Unfortunately, scamming is endemic everywhere these days. It is a constant debate how much the [US] federal program Medicare gets scammed out of every year. One of the local drug stores where I live has numerous signs warning about gift cards after so many local seniors were getting scammed into buying gift cards. Then there were a recent chain of text messages telling me I owed money for driving on toll roads in the state of Illinois, which was amusing because one, I haven't been to Illinois since 2022. Two, I was a passenger in someone else's car at the time, and three, the last time I was on a toll road in Illinois in a vehicle I actually owned was in 2017. As an amusing aside, when I mentioned this on Facebook, a frequent commenter and reader mentioned that he lives in the UK and he still got a bunch of text messages about toll roads in Illinois, even though A, he lives in the UK and B, he doesn't actually have a driver's license. Unfortunately, it is the truth that the internet makes scamming so easy, that constant vigilance is required these days, and with that in mind, here are six different kinds of scammy emails writers (and indie publishers) can expect to get. #1: ChatGPT. One of the reasons (you know if you've listened to the show before) that I'm very down on generative AI is that generative AI is a scammer's paradise. Lately, a new trend is that a scammer will feed a pirated copy of a book into ChatGPT and then use it to generate personalized pitch letters. These personalized pitch letters will also be littered with emojis and the tone will vary from warm and sycophantic to encouraging and edgy. Here's a quote from a recent one I got for Blade of Flames: “Talembur wakes in a forgotten catacomb, sword in hand, memory shredded, enemies sniffing blood in the dark. That's a hook so sharp it could flense an orc. Blade of Flames reads like classic, grim-and-gorgeous sword-and-sorcery with a hunger for blood, mystery, and very satisfying blade choreography.” In fact, I got two more just like that this morning before I started recording. This is an effective illusion for a scam because it seems like the scammer read the book and liked it and is making personalized compliments about it, even though that's the result of a ChatGPT or a similar bot. However, the rest of the email is a hard pitch for various marketing services that don't actually exist. I admit I fell halfway for this one the first time. I got one of those very detailed emails and I thought it would respond with a polite refusal since it seemed like a lot of work had gone into it. However, after responding, I think I then got five more emails in rapid succession, all of them pushing for the purchase of dubious marketing services, and I realized the whole thing was a ChatGPT powered bot. So watch out for these very personalized emails, especially the ones that appear instantaneously or very quickly after you publish a book. #2: Fake book clubs. This one is sometimes tied in with the ChatGPT scams. Sometimes the book club people use ChatGPT to generate their emails. The way this works is you'll get an email for someone claiming they run a large book club or reader group on Goodreads (or Facebook or whatever) and they think your book would be a good fit for their reader group and have a few questions about it. However, if you respond to this email, you'll start getting pressure for payment. Turns out the reader group or the book club doesn't actually exist and this is yet another scam, so watch out for emails that talk about the “5,000 member reader group” or something along those lines. By good luck, one of these emails arrived while I was writing the notes for this episode, so I thought it would quote it here. “I'm Jason, and I organize Book Club NYC, a community of more than 3,300 readers across New York who gather to read, reflect, and connect through books that challenge perception and spark deep conversation. When I discovered Ghost in the Siege, I was immediately struck by its layered power, a story that confronts truth and deception, morality and survival, within a world both haunting and familiar. It's the kind of book that doesn't just entertain; it lingers, asking questions about justice, humanity, and what it means to stand alone in the face of decay. That blend of atmosphere and insight makes it exactly the kind of story our members love to explore together. We'd love to feature Ghost in the Siege as part of our upcoming event on Wednesday, October 15th. Here's what that experience will look like: Quiet Reading & Reflection: members immersing themselves in your world, letting its tension and themes unfold in silence. Open Discussion: exploring the moral and psychological dimensions of corruption, redemption, and resistance.” And blah, blah, blah. It goes on in this vein quite a bit. You notice that if you actually read Ghost in the Siege (and I'm actually quite fond of Ghost in the Siege as a book), I don't think it would be fair to say that Ghost in the Siege “isn't just the kind of book that entertains, it lingers, asking questions about justice, humanity, and what it means to stand alone in the face of decay.” That is the kind of generic nonsense you can expect ChatGPT to spit out for this kind of thing. Now, as we mentioned, of course this book club doesn't actually exist, and if any of these good Goodreads or Facebook groups or whatever even exists, they'll be full of bots under the control of the scammer, and if you respond, the book club organizer will start talking about fees for having your book read before the group. As ever, if you pay, the scammer will either immediately disappear or continue to pressure you for more money. #3: “John Grisham” wants to promote my book. This type of email is just a straight up catfishing or identity theft attempt. You'll get an email allegedly from a famous author (for myself, I've gotten emails from “John Grisham” and “Colleen Hoover”, among others), and they'll offer to help you promote your books. Obviously, this is very fake. The actual John Grisham and Colleen Hoover (among other famous authors) have better things to do with their time than emailing random indie authors like me for marketing collaborations. If you respond to these emails, you'll get a request for payment, and if you pay, the scammer will promptly disappear and stop responding, or of course, ask for more money. #4: Meta Ads has a new dashboard. I've gotten this one quite a bit this year, allegedly from Meta. This email claims that Facebook is rolling out either a new ads dashboard or a new mobile app for managing ads, and you've been invited to participate in the beta test for the new dashboard or the new app. Just click on the link and start installation. I admit I ignored these at first because there's no way I'm ever installing any Meta apps on my phone because they're so intrusive and halfway to being spyware. Also, the current version of the Facebook ads dashboard is annoying enough and complicated enough to use it as it is, and I don't want to play with any half-baked beta features. So I ignored these emails, but then I realized I was getting surprisingly a lot of them. So I checked the senders and realized they weren't coming from an actual Meta address, but from a variety of different Gmail addresses, which meant they were in fact phishing attempts. Facebook ad phishing, alas, is a serious problem. The basic scam is that a hacker finds a way to gain control of your ads account and then uses it to advertise various scam projects, usually involving cryptocurrency. Since Facebook's customer support is so notoriously bad, it's very difficult to get this kind of situation resolved. So if you are using Facebook ads, be wary of any emails you get from Meta since they could be phishing attempts. #5: Bad tax news or payment failure. This one tends to be common around tax time or the end of the year. You'll get an email allegedly from one of the publishing platforms claiming that there's a problem with your tax information or that one of your payments failed. The email will include a link you can click to resolve the situation, which is of course fake so the scammers can capture your account and personal information. I've gotten a couple of these lately and some of them, to be honest, were quite good. I got one from Spotify claiming that my tax information was out of date, which was baffling because my tax information hasn't changed in the entire time I've had audiobooks with Spotify. I was suspicious, so I logged into my Spotify dashboard and checked that everything was in fact, okay. Then I realized the scam: the email had actually come to a different email account than the one I actually used for my Spotify dashboard. It was an exceptionally well done phishing email, but thankfully, years of ingrained caution against clicking email links served me well. So if you do get one of these, don't click on any links. Instead go directly to the dashboard of the platform in question and see for yourself. If there actually is a tax or a payment problem, there will probably be a notification of some kind on the dashboard, and of course if the notification email comes to a different email account than the one you actually use for that platform or service, it will obviously be fake. #6: Fake publishing services. There are a variety of fake publishing services out there offering a range of alleged benefits like more Facebook followers, more readers, more email subscribers, et cetera, or someone will offer to get your book into Publishers Weekly or something like that in exchange for a payment. Some of these blend over with the scammy sort of vanity publishers. Granted, I think that all vanity publishing (which is “you pay us and we publish your book”) is a scam, but some of them are worse than others. At best, if you engage with these kinds of services, you'll get some new followers from bots or so forth, which is useless for selling books. At worst, nothing will happen at all. The scammers will take your money and disappear. At the absolute worst, they'll pester you forever for more money or find a way to steal more personal information from you. Generally, if you get an unsolicited email from book marketers, it is almost surely a scam. If you're unsure, asking about the company in question in a Facebook group like 20BooksTo50K or Wide For The Win will help identify whether or not they're legit, but they're probably not legit. In conclusion, I'm afraid one has no choice but to exercise constant vigilance in the Internet world these days, especially if you're a self-publisher. Be extremely wary of any unsolicited emails. Never click on a link in an email. If a message claims there's a problem with one of your publishing platforms, don't click on the link. Go to the platform directly in a different browser tab or a different browser and see for yourself. Before spending money on anything, do some research and check that it is legitimate and not a scam. It's easy to fake legitimacy these days, so it's worthwhile to do a little investigating before spending money on anything. So that is it for this week. Thank you for listening to The Pulp Writer Show. I hope you found the show useful and a helpful guide against some of the scams you might encounter in the wild. A reminder that you can listen to all the back episodes at https://thepulpwritershow.com. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcasting platform of choice. Stay safe and stay healthy and see you all next week.
Deze talkshow wordt mede mogelijk gemaakt door MSI. Alle meningen in deze video zijn onze eigen. MSI heeft inhoudelijk geen inspraak op de content en zien de video net als jullie hier voor het eerst op de site.Het weekend komt eraan. Als je goed kijkt, zie je hem al aan de horizon verschijnen. De hoogste tijd dus om een goed potje te gaan chillen. Het ‘verheugen op' het weekend doen we zoals tijd met het maken van een nieuwe aflevering van Einde van de Week Live. De talkshow waarin we aan het einde van de werkweek het belangrijkste game gerelateerde nieuws met jullie doornemen. In deze episode hebben Daan, Jelle en Koos het onder andere over het cancellen van een nieuw deel uit de Assassin's Creed-reeks, de chaos rond de prijs van Xbox Game Pass en de launch van Battlefield 6. Deze onderwerpen en meer ga je zien en horen in de Einde van de Week Live van vrijdag 10 oktober 2025.Ubisoft cancelt uit angst voor ophef nieuw deel van Assassin's CreedAndere onderwerpen in deze video zijn de prijsverlaging van ARC Raiders, de nieuwe trailer van het nieuwe seizoen van The Witcher op Netflix, de geheel door AI geproduceerde game van Elon Musk en een nieuw editie van Cool of Serious Uncool.Check de razendsnelle Stealth A16 Mercedes/AMG AI gaming laptop van MSDeze week zet MSI de Stealth A16 AMG Mercedes gaming laptop in de schijnwerpers. Het betreft hier geen gewone Stealth A16, maar een vlotte en unieke samenwerking tussen Stealth en AMG Design. Onder de motorkap bevinden zich een AMD Ryzen AI 9 processor, een NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 videokaart, een 2TB SSD, een QHD+ 240Hz OLED display (dus net zo snel als een Mercedes) en een per key RGB toetsenbord. Een fijne laptop om op te gamen en te werken. Of tijdens het werk te gamen. Deze laptop kun je hier nu scherp geprijsd verkrijgen. Krijg 20% korting op de gehele collectie bij ReellReell is de kleding-sponsor van Gamekings. Toffe, no nonsens kleding, beschikbaar tegen een scherpe prijs. Die prijs gaan we speciaal voor de community van Gamekings nog scherper maken. Er is een nieuwe drop, nieuwe looks en de herfst/winter collectie van Reell staat online. Jij kunt 20% exclusieve korting krijgen op de gehele collectie met code ‘gamekings' via reellworld.com. Kun je goed gekleed de winter in.Scoor kaarten voor het concert van Disturbed in de Ziggo DomeOp dinsdag 14 oktober aanstaande treedt de Amerikaanse alternative metal band Disturbed op in de Ziggo Dome te Amsterdam. Deze beukende band staat bij onder andere JJ standaard op afspeellijst tijdens het trainen. Disturbed is onder andere bekend van hun nummer ‘Down with the Sickness', en hun tracks zitten in tientallen games waaronder Project Gotham Racing 4, Tony Hawk Underground 2 en Fortnite. Hier kun je de kaarten voor het concert scoren.
Stealth wealth or quiet luxury as it is sometimes known is the practice of concealing one's wealth or not flaunting one's money or possessions, but rather keeping them private and discreet. It's the kind of luxury that keeps a low profile and doesn't try to stand out with big logos or loud statement pieces. But that does not mean people don't know you are wealthy, at least some people do. Look at the successful show ‘Succession' where the uber rich wear logo-free, exquisitely tailored clothes that fool no one as to their price tag. Why do some people choose to be stealthy? Does stealth wealth mean living below your means? Is stealth wealth or quiet luxury for everyone? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here : What is Neo-Luddism, the growing anti-technology movement? Why is Camilla becoming queen and not queen consort? What is Extinction Rebellion ? A Bababam Originals podcast.A podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. First Broadcast : 9/5/2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this week's episode, we take a look at creating good backstories for characters and how that can advance the plot. We also discuss two articles about the problems of generative AI. This coupon code will get you 25% off the ebook versions of books in the Sevenfold Sword series at my Payhip store: SEVENBOOKS The coupon code is valid through October 13, 2025. So if you need a new ebook this fall, we've got you covered! Here are links to the articles mentioned in the episode. Writer Beware: https://writerbeware.blog/2025/08/01/return-of-the-nigerian-prince-a-new-twist-on-book-marketing-scams/ Ed Zitron: https://www.wheresyoured.at/the-haters-gui/ TRANSCRIPT 00:00:00 Introduction and Writing Updates Hello, everyone. Welcome to Episode 271 of The Pulp Writer Show. My name is Jonathan Moeller. Today is October 3, 2025, and today we are looking at how to create character backstories. We'll also look at some good articles about the problems created by generative AI technology. If you hear occasional drumming noise in the background, it seems like the elementary school a few blocks from here is practicing their marching band. Hopefully it won't be too disruptive. First off, let's start with Coupon of the Week. This week's coupon code will get you 25% off the ebook versions of books in the Sevenfold Sword Series in my Payhip store, and that coupon code is SEVENBOOKS. And as always, the coupon code and the link to my Payhip store will be available in the show notes. This coupon code will be valid through October the 13th, 2025. If you need a new ebook for this fall, we have got you covered. Now let's have a progress update on my current writing projects. As of this recording, I am 83,000 words into Cloak of Worlds, which will be the 13th book in the Cloak Mage series. I'm thinking the book will end up about 110,000 words, so hopefully I will finish up the rough draft next week. We'll see how things go. I'm also 8,000 words into Blade of Shadows, which will be the sequel to Blade of Flames from last month, and that will be my main project once Cloak of Worlds is published (hopefully by the end of October, if all goes well). In audiobook news, I'm very pleased to report that recording and all the work is done on Ghost in the Siege (as excellently narrated by Hollis McCarthy) and we will actually close out this episode with a preview from that audiobook. It's currently up on my Payhip store and probably Google Play as of this recording, but it should be showing up on all the other stores before too much longer. 00:01:52 Generative AI Now onto our next topic, which is two very good articles about the problems of generative AI I read recently. The first (and I'll have the links to both articles in the show notes) is from Writer Beware, which talks about how generative AI is causing a new round of super targeted scammers. These scammers feed your book into the chatbot, which then generates a highly personalized email praising the book and offering marketing services. I got a ton of these scam emails after Stealth and Spells Online, Ghost in the Siege, and Blade of Flames came out in the past couple months and a bunch more after Malison: The Complete Series did well on BookBub at the end of August. So if you are a writer and you publish a book and a few days later or perhaps even the very same day, you get a very detailed email praising the book with very specific plot points and offering marketing services, beware, it's probably a scam that will give you no value whatsoever for your money. Journalist Edward Zitron wrote a great article explaining in extensive detail why generative AI is a bad idea that's probably going to cause a serious market crash in the next few years. I admit I started out with a mildly negative opinion of LLM based generative AI tools in 2022 and 2023, but I wanted my opinion to be an informed one. I've experimented with them on and off and read a good bit about them and as I've experimented with them, my opinion has moved from mildly negative to highly negative and finally arriving at completely anti-AI this year. I never used AI for any of my books, short stories, or cover images. I experimented a bit with using AI images for Facebook ads, but people generally hated them, so I stopped entirely with that. In fact, Facebook ads have become far less effective this year because of all the AI stuff Meta has crammed into them, but more on that later. So why did I arrive at a highly negative opinion of AI? It's because these tools do not actually do what their advocates promise, they're hideously expensive to run, and the enormous costs and downsides significantly outweigh any benefits. In addition to the problems mentioned in the Zitron article like cost, false promises, economic bubbles, and the companies blatantly lying about their capabilities, I think the fundamental difficulty with generative AI is that it's essentially a cognitive mirror for its users, like a Narcissus Machine like I've called it before. What do I mean by this? In Greek myth Narcissus was enraptured by the beauty of his own reflection. LLM based AI is essentially very fancy autocomplete, which means it guesses the most likely response to your prompt based on a statistical likelihood. In other words, it ends up mirroring your own thoughts back at you. So I think LLMs are highly prone to inducing an unconscious confirmation bias in the user. Confirmation bias is a logical fallacy where one interprets new information as confirming one's preexisting beliefs. It's healthier to reevaluate one's beliefs based on new information that comes in, but with confirmation bias, you warp any incoming information to fit a preexisting belief. For example, let's say you have the preexisting belief that you're immortal and nothing can kill you, and then you accidentally shoot yourself in the arm with a nail gun and you bleed. The correct interpretation of this is no, you are not in fact immortal and you can in fact die. Someone suffering under confirmation bias would say the fact that they accidentally shot themselves in the nail gun in the arm with a nail gun and didn't die is proof that they're immortal. That's obviously a logical fallacy, but you see why it's called a confirmation bias. I think even highly intelligent people using LLMS are prone to this kind of confirmation bias because the AI model settles on what is the most statistically likely response to the prompt, which means that consciously or not, you are guiding the LLM to give you the responses that please you. This is why you see on the tragically hilarious side, people who are convinced they've invented a new level of physics with the LLM or taught it to become self-aware or think that the LLM has fallen in love with them. And on the outright tragic side, people who have serious mental breakdowns or blow up their lives in destructive ways because of their interaction with the LLM. Grimly enough, I suppose the problem is going to sort itself out when the AI bubble crashes, whether in a few months or a few years. As one of the linked articles mentioned, AI companies have no clear path to profitability, save for chaining together infinite NVIDIA graphics cards and hoping they magically stumble into an artificial general intelligence or a super intelligence. They're not going to and it's all going to fall apart. The downside is that this is going to cause a lot of economic disruption when it crashes. I know I'm very negative about AI, but in the end I see hardly any good results or actual benefits from the technology. Lots of technology products are becoming worse from having AI stuffed into them (like Windows 11 and Microsoft Office) and what a few good results have come about will not last because the data centers are burning cash like there's no tomorrow. So again, you can see the links to these articles in the show notes and those are my thoughts on generative AI at the moment. 00:07:04 Writing Backstory for Characters [Note: Contains some mild spoilers for early books in the Frostborn, Half-Elven Thief, The Ghosts, and Cloak Games series] Now let's move on to a happier and frankly more interesting topic and that is writing backstory for characters. I will define it, talk about why backstory is important, give three tips about writing effective backstories, and share examples of good backstories from my own work and other media. First of all, what is a backstory? It's what happens to a character before the story begins or details of situation that happens before the story begins. Very often you'll have characters who have preexisting pasts before the story begins. It's very rare the story will begin when the main character is born and go from there. Even if that is the case, then some of the supporting characters obviously will have backstories. One example of a backstory could be a detective who had a twin sister who is kidnapped, which explains why he gets overly invested when a similar case happens. An example of a location's backstory would be knowing that a particular country was once part of another one and split off after revolution or war. That detail influences how people in that country currently treat people in the other nation. And you can see that a backstory is also an important component of world building as well, especially for fantasy and science fiction novels, though even novels set in in the contemporary world like mysteries and contemporary romance will often have backstories as well that require world building, because the location is very often fictional or will have fictional elements to it. Now, why is backstory important? For one thing, it makes a story feel more realistic and “lived in”, for lack of a better word. It's not realistic that absolutely nothing of interest happened to the protagonist before the story begins, or that nothing from their past would influence their current beliefs, behavior, and decisions. Backstory also gives characters clearer reasons for doing things. Returning to the earlier example of detective who had a younger sister who was kidnapped. What if the detective was a very procedural and by the book until a sudden similar case happened? Backstory can explain his unorthodox methods and willingness to solve the case at any cost. Backstory can also drive the plot in many ways. Continuing with the detective example, the detective's knowledge of his little sister's case leads him to find similar patterns in the new case and sends him on a search to prove that the cases are connected. As we can see from that, backstory is also a good way to set up plot hooks for later characters, such as we could have our detective here with his twin sister who disappeared in circumstances similar to his current case. It could be a fantasy hero who had previous battles with orcs and explains why he doesn't like seeing orcs. It could be a contemporary romance heroine who is reencountering her old flame, in which case the backstory would be central towards the plot, essentially. And now for three tips for writing backstory. First, it's important to not stop the plot to reveal backstory. Infodumping is generally something to be avoided when you are writing a novel. A little bit of it is unavoidable, but you want to avoid infodumping as much as possible and to reveal only as much information as necessary, partly because that creates a less cumbersome read for the reader and partly because that can also inspire a sense of mystery that sort of helps hook the reader and propels them forward into the story. It's also good to only reveal backstory that serves the plot or provides key information. For example, you could have in your detective's backstory that he went to high school and he was only a mediocre student and graduated with a GPA of 2.9 while doing well in athletics. Unless that's actually relevant to the story or has some significance to the plot, it's probably best to not include that. You can always tell when a writer has done a lot of research on a particular topic like firearms or travel or the history of a particular country because they are going to put that information in the book whether you want it or not. And if you're inventing an elaborate backstory for your character, it's best to avoid that impulse and only bring in details from the backstory as necessary. It's also important not to have the characters tell each other backstory that they would already know. For example, if you have two characters who've been married for 20 years, it would not be good to have them appear in dialogue as, “As you know, beloved wife, we have been married for 20 years this Tuesday.” It would be better if it's important to the plot to reveal that information like they're going out to a 20th anniversary party or their friends are throwing them a 20th anniversary party, that kind of thing, rather than having it come out in sort of a cumbersome conversation like that. Additionally, it's also important to only do as much backstory as necessary. For your main character, you may need a good deal of backstory or for the antagonist, but for supporting characters, it's less important to have a fully realized background. You need just enough so that they feel realistic and can contribute to the plot without overburdening the plot with too many details. Now, a few examples from my own books, mild spoilers here, nothing major but mild spoilers. I have written characters who have one key backstory element that influenced the plot. Ridmark Arban from Frostborn would be one and his major backstory point is that he was unable to save his wife Aelia from being killed five years before the story starts. Later on, there would be additional backstory that comes out for him in relation to his father and his brothers, but that is the main backstory point that defines his character for easily the first half of the series. Another example would be Morigna, whose parents were killed by the dvargir and then she was raised by a mysterious sorcerer who called himself the old man. And that is a major defining part of her character, that backstory that happened before we meet her in the narrative. I've also written characters with a lot of backstory, and the chief example of that would be Calliande from Frostborn as well, where she wakes up in the first book with no memory of her past and discovering what her backstory actually is a major driving force in the first eight books of the series. So that is a good example. Not to toot my own horn or anything, but that is a good example of using backstory as a mysterious narrative hook to pull the characters forward. Rivah from Half-Elven Thief is another character of mine who has a lot of backstory. In the backstory, she was raised in a noble household, her mother died, her father was about to sell her into slavery, so she fled into the streets and then she met Tobell and became part of his thieving crew. Tobell suffered a serious injury, and the thieving crew broke up and Rivah had to sort of strike out on her own while coming under debt to the procurator Marandis. So there is a lot of backstory there and all of it is important to Rivah's character and I think I've done my best to sort of feed that into the story as necessary to drive the plot rather than hopefully unloading it all in a massive infodump. And I have written characters with very little backstory, and the prime example of those would be Caina and Nadia. In Caina's series, the series starts when she's 11 years old and living with her parents and we develop Caina as she goes along and follow her she grows to adulthood and then increasing prominence in her world. With Nadia, the very first scene in the book is her first day of kindergarten pledging allegiance to the flag, the United States, and the High Queen of the Elves, which is the first indicator that Nadia's world, while very similar as to ours, is nonetheless very different. Like Caina, the book's narrative starts when Nadia is very young and then we see her develop along the course of the books. In a good example of backstory used well from another book would be Aragorn from J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, where Aragorn's backstory is extremely important because when the hobbits first meet him at The Prancing Pony in Bree, he's just this mysterious wanderer known as Strider. But later on, we learn that he's actually the last heir of Gondor and Arnor and the rightful king of Gondor. His desire to reclaim his heritage and fulfill the role destiny has prepared for him is a major part of his character and that actually grows organically out of his backstory. I'm not usually fond of prequels, but a good example of a prequel using backstory effectively would be the combination of the Andor TV show and the Rogue One movie, where they create this excellent backstory for the Star Wars movie [Episode IV]. They do it through good characterization so you can see all the motivations of the characters as they go about their various missions and errands. So hopefully that gives you a good look into the process of creating backstory and how best to use it for writing your own stories. So that is it for this week. Thank you for listening to The Pulp Writer Show. I hope you found this show useful. A reminder that you can listen to all the back episodes of the show at https://thepulpwritershow.com. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcasting platform of choice. Stay safe and stay healthy and see you all next week. And now let's close out with a preview of the audiobook of Ghosts in the Siege, as excellently narrated by Hollis McCarthy [audiobook excerpt follows].
"The Stealth Bomber" by Australian author George Norris is a compelling and insightful exploration of men's mental health, delving into the often unspoken struggles men face in confronting emotional vulnerability. Through a powerful narrative, Norris sheds light on the societal pressures and stigmas that lead many men to suppress their feelings, highlighting the importance of opening up and seeking support. The book serves as both a call to action and a source of hope, encouraging men to break free from the silence surrounding mental health and embrace healing and connection.THE STEALTH BOMBER Price (GST exempt): $39.95 Add $10.00 for postage and packing. Order from Ryan Publishing (ABN 80 161 956 287): PO Box 7680, Melbourne, Victoria 3004. Ph: 03 9505 6820, Fax: 03 9505 6821, Email: books@ryanpub.com or order at www.ryanpub.com #leadership #leadershipdevelopment #leadershipskills #leadershipskillstraining #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthsupport #mensmentalhealth #retirement #businessBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/talking-business-with-mark-and-john--5696935/support.
After a few seasons of sartorial subtlety, the pendulum is swinging hard at Gucci. After parting ways with Alessandro Michele's maximalist 70's fever dream, Gucci decided to pivot hard into a pared down aesthetic under Sabato de Sarno—which led to catastrophic losses in revenue. Now with Demna's highly anticipated debut for Gucci, the silence has been broken by a cacophony of maximalism, irony, and unapologetic self-expression. Join us as we unpack the Gucci lookbook—and what it says about the shift from quiet luxury. We're diving deep into the cultural psychology behind this shift: Is fashion reacting to a desire for post-pandemic escapism? Are we tired of blending in? And is this the definitive moment that signals a pivot away from 'less is more' to 'more is fabulous' for the next generation of style icons? --Join us over on Substack for newsletter accessJoin us over on YouTubeJoin us over on TikTok and Insta (@thoughtfulthreadspod)Support this small creative platform hereSay hi! hithoughtfulthreads@gmail.com
DSC's Campfires with Larry WeishuhnColor-Phase Bears, Big Black Bruisers & a Day at Stealth Vision (with Dr. Mike Arnold)Episode Summary Pull up a chair—Larry welcomes friend and wildlife biologist Dr. Mike Arnold back to the fire to swap spring bear stories from British Columbia and Alberta, break down color-phase genetics, and nerd out on long-range Stealth Vision optics at company HQ in Crockett, Texas. From barge rides over 600-foot glacial lakes and logging-road stalks to a rain-soaked recovery on a 400-pound boar, this one's packed with fieldcraft, gear talk, and camp-style laughs. 00:00 – Welcome & Sponsors Larry sets the table and welcomes Dr. Mike back to the mic. 01:28 – Mike's British Columbia Spot-and-Stalk • Camp access by barge across a deep, glacial lake; days spent glassing logging roads • Goal: a color-phase bear (“cinnamon/chocolate”)—and finding one! • Tracking with wind in the face, slipping off the road into a small burn, and re-locating the bear at ~60 yards • Shot with a .338 Federal (MG Arms ultralight) on quad sticks; double-lung hit, short dash, quick finish • Daily bear sightings (including a grizzly boar and sow), plus moose, mule deer—and elk moving back into the area 13:00 – Larry's Alberta Hunt (Bait, Ground Level, Big Boar) • A cagey black bear that “checks the blind” finally slips up—Larry hunts from the ground instead • Raining hard, light is terrible; Stealth Vision SVT 3-18×44 with lit reticle makes the difference • Mossberg .308 on loan from Brad Fenson, Hornady Precision Hunter ammo; quartering shot, short 35-step recovery • Estimated ~400-lb spring boar with a “weightlifter's neck” 18:30 – Why So Many Color-Phase Bears? • Dr. Mike's genetics take: small historical populations can “fix” color variants in a region • Western/interior populations show more blondes, cinnamons, and chocolates; coastal/eastern tend to be black • Forestry practices and green-up patterns boost bear numbers; grizzlies abundant but not generally huntable there (outside First Nation harvest) 22:30 – Range Day at Stealth Vision HQ (Crockett, TX) • Inside look at Stealth Vision's “top-tier or nothing” approach with Dr. John McCall and Joe Cunningham • The integrated cant indicator (“green bubble”)—no more flipping to a separate level at long range • Pushing to 1,000+ yards; how smart engineering for the human eye improves clarity, speed, and precision • Anecdotes on extreme consistency—tiny groups at 500 yards and beyond 33:05 – Looking Ahead • Saskatchewan plans (good color-phase odds), plus a visit to Choctaw Hunting Lodge on the horizon • Camp closes with thanks and an open invite to gather again next week Rifles & Calibers: • MG Arms Ultralight – .338 Federal (Dr. Mike) • Mossberg – .308 Win (Larry, loaner from Brad Fenson) Optics: • Stealth Vision SVT 3-18×44 (illuminated reticle, integrated cant indicator) Ammunition: • Hornady Precision Hunter (ELD-X) Hunt Styles: • Spot-and-stalk (BC); Baited (Alberta) Wildlife Notes: • Frequent black bear sightings, grizzly pair, moose; elk recolonizing pockets of BC • Color-phase frequency in parts of BC ~25–30% (per outfitter estimates) “It's easy to shoot too high on bears—know the anatomy. Even then, aim discipline matters.” – Larry & Dr. Mike If you enjoyed this campfire, follow/subscribe so you don't miss our next episode—Larry's lining up more voices from this same camp week. Share the show with a hunting buddy, and let us know your favorite bear-hunting lessons or color-phase encounters. DSC • Hornady • Taurus • Stealth Vision • Mossberg • Vineyard Max • Red 55 Winery • Choctaw Hunting Lodge Plus: The Crown Bar (La In This EpisodeGear & Details MentionedPull QuoteCall to ActionThanks to Our Partners Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
TEXT US YOUR THOUGHTS!Does Metal Gear Solid Delta nail the landing or is it just a gorgeous-looking disappointment? We're dropping into the jungle to give our full, unfiltered review of the MGS3 remake. The visuals are stunning, but as one host put it: the controls are still "janky."
In this Azizi Podcast, Samir Azizi chats with Husnain — a core member of Toronto DAO and founder of a stealth startup. We caught up at Solana Startup Village in Toronto, hosted by Superteam, to talk about building in Web3, leadership, and what makes Toronto DAO events stand out in Canada's crypto scene. In this conversation, Husnain shares: • His experience building a stealth startup focused on Web3 infrastructure. • The challenges of managing and motivating teams as a founder. • Why he prefers a leadership style based on intrinsic motivation over authoritarian management. • His role in Toronto DAO's decentralized AI & data event and how interactive presentations made a bigger impact. • What makes Toronto DAO unique — from consistency in events and spaces to building a real community in the GTA. If you're curious about startup leadership, Web3 community building, and Toronto's growing crypto ecosystem, this interview is for you.
S2E14: Ambient AI in Healthcare Trends Host: Frank Cutitta Guest: Dr. Ed Lee, Chief Medical Officer at Nabla To stream our Station live 24/7 visit www.HealthcareNOWRadio.com or ask your Smart Device to “….Play Healthcare NOW Radio”. Find all of our network podcasts on your favorite podcast platforms and be sure to subscribe and like us. Learn more at www.healthcarenowradio.com/listen
Matthew Wise is the founder and CEO of Archipelo, a San Francisco-based cybersecurity startup that emerged from stealth with $12 million in funding. In this episode, he joins host Scott Schober to discuss the venture capital announcement, what the funding will be used for, and more. • For more on cybersecurity, visit us at https://cybersecurityventures.com
Have you ever asked yourself: “Why does my ex keep reaching out?” “What is hoovering in narcissism?” “How do I stay strong after going no contact?” This episode is a must watch. They don't disappear when you go No Contact — they escalate. In this episode, I break down the 4 things narcissists do after you cut them off (Heat, Workarounds, Rotation, Hawk), the real psychology behind hoovering, and the exact boundary language that starves their supply and puts you back in control. If you're done with the chaos and ready to reclaim your power, this is for you. Find out: How narcissists hoover (subtle + overt) and why it's all about supply The difference between diamond-level vs coal-level supply (and how to leverage both) Stealth smear tactics “couched in care” — and how to shut them down Trauma-bond science (why your brain keeps checking the phone) + fast boundary resets Scripts and response frames that end circular conversations — for good #Narcissist #NoContact #RebeccaZung ___________________________________ _________________________________ Check out my FREE Live webinar, the EXPOSE THE NARCISSIST IN COURT: INSIDER SECRETS TO WIN YOUR CASE RIGHT HERE Learn more about the SLAY Your Negotiation with Narcissists program right here: https://slay.rebeccazung.com/slay-it-now-a ___________________________________ _________________________________ For more information on REBECCA ZUNG, ESQ. visit her website www.rebeccazung.com and follow her on Instagram: @rebeccazung and YouTube! GRAB YOUR FREE CRUSH MY NEGOTIATION PREP WORKSHEET RIGHT HERE! SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL RIGHT HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Lockheed’s Skunk Works reveals Vectis stealth drone, eyeing first flight in 2027 Please Subscribe + Rate & Review Philip Teresi on KMJ wherever you listen! --- KMJ’s Philip Teresi is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music or wherever else you listen. --- Philip Teresi, Weekdays 2-6 PM Pacific News/Talk 580 & 105.9 KMJ DriveKMJ.com | Podcast | Facebook | X | Instagram --- Everything KMJ: kmjnow.com | Streaming | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lockheed’s Skunk Works reveals Vectis stealth drone, eyeing first flight in 2027 Please Subscribe + Rate & Review Philip Teresi on KMJ wherever you listen! --- KMJ’s Philip Teresi is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music or wherever else you listen. --- Philip Teresi, Weekdays 2-6 PM Pacific News/Talk 580 & 105.9 KMJ DriveKMJ.com | Podcast | Facebook | X | Instagram --- Everything KMJ: kmjnow.com | Streaming | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Articulate Fly brings you essential insights for navigating challenging fall smallmouth conditions with Southwest Virginia guide Matt Reilly. As low, clear water conditions continue with extended summer-like weather, Matt shares critical smallmouth bass fishing strategies that separate successful anglers from frustrated ones. Discover why stealth becomes paramount when targeting spooky fish in shallow, clear water, and learn specific techniques for minimizing unnecessary disturbances from your boat. Matt reveals the deliberate approach required for effective bug fishing, emphasizing strategic fly placement over rapid-fire casting and explaining how a fish's "zone of awareness" differs from its reactive distance. Get expert guidance on selecting the right cork bug density for maximum attraction power versus foam alternatives, plus tactical advice on when to focus on prime locations rather than covering extensive water. Matt also discusses his transition from smallmouth fishing to winter musky opportunities, making this episode valuable for anglers planning their fall and winter strategies in technical water conditions.To learn more about Matt, check out our full length interview.All Things Social MediaFollow Matt on Instagram.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.Support the Show Shop on AmazonBecome a Patreon PatronSubscribe to the PodcastSubscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice.Advertise on the PodcastIs our community a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.In the Industry and Need Help Getting Unstuck?Check out our consulting options!
PREVIEW: GUEST: Bruce Bechtol SUMMARY: Bruce Bechtol discusses the North Korean Navy, which is generally weak but excels at asymmetric warfare, such as using stealth boats and submarines to sneak in troops or sinking the Cheonan in 2010. While Russia is reportedly helping build their nuclear submarine fleet, they face real challenges in conventional, head-to-head naval combat. 1945 SEOUL
Episode 583 of the A Minute to Midnite Show. Tony is joined by Andre from Spiritual Logic for Truth.
Send us a textYou're using ChatGPT all wrong.Until now, using ChatGPT meant endless copying and pasting between your apps. A newly released feature, MCP connectors, shatters those limitations, transforming ChatGPT into a super agent that can connect to nearly any application, service, or website. This allows it to access information, talk to your apps, and take action anywhere, fundamentally changing how you work.In this episode, we'll show you exactly how to set it up, even if you're not a technical person. You'll discover:
Welcome back to Parenting Out Loud where we've got a brand new episode to start your weekend off right. On the show this week: The rise of the stealth mum. From Margot Robbie's press tour to your work colleague who's never mentioned having kids, we're exploring why hiding motherhood has become the new cultural currency. Plus, praising your child is a fraught business. Do you compliment their efforts, their appearance, their creations? Perhaps millennial parents are overthinking things... again. We discuss. And, there's a tiny internet feud happening on Facebook that we need to talk about. Plus, our recommendations:
Celebrate National Public Lands Day by finding a place to visit and get involved at NEEFAUSA.ogorNPS.govAnd get into what was getting to be popular as vegetables in the early 19th century.How did Avocado Toast become a thing? Well, it would never have gotten the traction it did with out practice runs by spinach or even more glamourously by celery.And those would have never had a chance if not for the propensity for food fads developed by the early 19th century Americans who had lost their food traditions and were now looking for something new.Join me on the journey to see what was cool in plant foods in the early 19th century. We can't all be spring peas after all.Music Credit: Fingerlympics by Doctor TurtleShow Notes: https://thehistoryofamericanfood.blogspot.com/Email: TheHistoryofAmericanFood at gmail dot comThreads: @THoAFoodInstagram: @THoAFood& some other socials... @THoAFood
S2E13: The Healthcare C-Suite's Take on AI. Big Opportunities. Too Little Trust Host: Frank Cutitta Guest: Dan Dorazio, CEO of Sage Growth Partners To stream our Station live 24/7 visit www.HealthcareNOWRadio.com or ask your Smart Device to “….Play Healthcare NOW Radio”. Find all of our network podcasts on your favorite podcast platforms and be sure to subscribe and like us. Learn more at www.healthcarenowradio.com/listen
In the past week, I realized that my truck is the perfect vanlife vehicle for me. Learn why! And we'll visit Aldi, Mississippi, have a bit of a cry, and explore the basics of stealth camping. The transplant begins. NEWS Starlink Slow Mode https://www.pcmag.com/news/starlink-replaces-free-pause-mode-with-5-monthly-charge Bluetti Power System https://www.theverge.com/news/767283/all-in-one-vanlife-power-system-rvsolar-bluetti Grizzly Pacifica Concept https://www.autoguide.com/auto/auto-news/chrysler-pacifica-grizzly-peak-concept-is-all-about-that-vanlife-44624167 PRODUCT REVIEW USB Water Pump amazon.com/dp/B08DCCJ3FH?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title A PLACE TO VISIT Windsor Ruins, Gibson, MS https://roadsideamerica.com/story/12415 RESOURCE RECOMMENDATION Stealth Camping Guide https://beyondthebucketlist.co/vanlife-stealth-camping/ FCC Notice: If you purchase anything from these links, the show will receive a small fee. This will not impact your price in any way.
In this episode i will be sharing 4 Creepy Stealth Camping Stories. Each story is accompanied with haunting ambience and rain sound fx. TimestampsIntro : [00:00)Story 1: (00:37) Story 2: (10:09) Story 3: (21:00) Story 4: (31:23)BUY MERCHSUBMIT YOUR SCARY STORYFOLLOW MEhttps://www.boozeandboos.net/ Join My Discord! https://discord.gg/sMUtpDwJADDo You Need Discord Assistance? Elle can help! https://elleheat.carrd.co/Stories Found & Edited By : Zack Graham SUPPORT HIM & BUY HIS BOOKS :) Mogollon Monsters - https://a.co/d/d2BHQCPGhosts of Gravsmith - https://a.co/d/ahThYHA ►[ Intro & Background Ambience] - Aiden : https://www.youtube.com/@UC-dIpawoAP9T9ccC0tgb-xw ►[《 Background Music
583- Andre@Spiritual Logic – Technocratic Global Government by Stealth, and Digital Slavery! Right click to Download
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