Podcasts about Swell

Kiera is joined by Mark Rasmussen, CEO of Moolah, to talk about the landscape of credit card fees and how to reduce them, membership discount plans, and other bonus features offered by the dental payment tech company. (Pssst, Mark was last on episode 866, It's Time to Modernize Payment Processing!) Episode resources: Subscribe to The Dental A-Team podcast Schedule a Practice Assessment Leave us a review Transcript Kiera Dent (00:00) Hello, Dental A Team listeners. This is Kiera. And today I am super jazzed because I have a guest here who's going to help us with cashflow leaks, modernizing your practice, figuring out those membership plans, all the things that you need and want. We're going to talk about some case studies. This is one of my absolute favorite guests, Mark Rasmussen, CEO, owner, founder, Moolah. How are you today, Mark? Welcome to the show.   Mark Rasmussen (00:22) Hey, Kara, I'm doing fantastic. I'm doing awesome. So, so, so it's connected with you and your listeners and excited to get into all this juicy good stuff about revenue and payments and modernizing things. Let's do it. I love it.   Kiera Dent (00:31) Yeah.   Let's   do it. So I have a slight crush on Moolah. Like truly you guys like just make credit card processing easy. And so what I want to start off, if you guys don't listen, Mark and I have done other podcasts in the past together. ⁓ But I don't know, Mark, what you guys say on your email subject lines, like on your little, what is it your signature, but I feel like it should be like your new favorite credit card processing company. Like that's what I feel like Moolah's tagline should be because I wanted to do a couple case studies with you since we last chatted.   Mark Rasmussen (00:40) Hahaha   Kiera Dent (01:05) ⁓ Mark knows, like, I do have a crush on Moolah. I try to get them to come and be our processor too.   Mark Rasmussen (01:10) I need to like soundbite clip that,   like I have a crush on Moolah just like everywhere in social. I love that.   Kiera Dent (01:15) I   do. do because I like companies that make things easy, but also are like the cheapest on the market and credit card fees are one of my biggest beefs. Like really truly I get annoyed when I look to see how much credit card fees are charging. And when you guys, ⁓ deadly team listeners, just so you know, I'm going to throw it out there. Like anybody who goes through our link literally saves 10 basis points. ⁓   on it, which is huge to get anywhere in the credit card industry. So you're getting below that 2.99. So you're getting 2.89 on cards not present and 2.39. And I hope that Mark, I'm allowed to say that because I'm just going to be bold and brazen. And if not, we'll cut that out. So don't stress about that.   Mark Rasmussen (01:52) No, no, no, for sure. And   not only that, it's like, that's not just a like teaser rate, like they look, your practices will get that preferred rate forever, right, which is awesome. And, and it's like you and I were talking a little bit earlier, too, of like, a bit of shock and awe of like, I and myself as well, I've been seeing like some statements from potential practices. And I'm like, ⁓ my God, I'm like, I'm seeing like,   Kiera Dent (02:03) which is so big and you don't add extra heat.   Mark Rasmussen (02:19) six, seven, eight percent, like net effective rates. I know you were saying you have been seeing even higher. It's crazy. Yeah, that's crazy. It's almost criminal.   Kiera Dent (02:25) Mm-hmm. Yeah, so it   does feel criminal because like here's the thing like you might get a cheaper rate somewhere else but when you look and dig into the details and this is where it feels annoying and obnoxious to me and doesn't happen right away it happens like when you've stopped looking at it you're like I've checked my credit card company for years they don't do anything and then all of a sudden it starts creeping up and being eerie and that's where I just get annoyed and that's why like I have a crush on Moolah because you guys don't do it and you guys stay consistent for it so   I felt Mark and I, you didn't listen to our last podcast, we'll definitely link it in the show notes for you. But Mark, I felt we should kick today off with some case studies because I have some clients that I've recommended over to Moolah. And I think my favorite one is we were looking and I had a practice and our overhead was high. So like this practice, they don't love to like look at numbers. They have an amazing CPA. Like I will say we do look at numbers, but they're kind of like, yeah, carry it. We'll just like out produce our problems a little bit. And that's fine. Like anybody can have that. But I said, Hey,   Mark Rasmussen (03:17) Alright.   Kiera Dent (03:21) Your credit card fees are really high. think that they were honestly like 10%. And I'm like, is that really true? Like that just seems outlandish. And they said, well, Kiera, we're in a contract. Mark, do you want to throw up with contracts? Tell me about credit card contracts.   Mark Rasmussen (03:33) Oh, I hate contracts. I hate contracts   like really in anything in my life. I don't know. So yeah, but that's, it's just crazy. The industry for the longest time has like felt the need to like lock these business owners and not just Dennis, but business owners in like these typically it's like three year contracts. And then, you know, they'll have like termination fees. And so they take advantage of that. And like you were saying, I talked to so many practices are like, Oh, I'm paying X and you know, they were paying X the first month that they signed up.   And then they didn't look at it, like you said, and then six months later, eight months later, the processor started like nudging it up, nudging it up, nudging it up. And to the point where when you look at what their rates are, you know, two years from when they signed up, it's like almost 180 degrees difference. So yeah, please you guys out there, please make sure you stay on your credit card processing. Look at those month end statements. Look at, you know, what is being nudged up because   Kiera Dent (04:19) Yeah.   Mark Rasmussen (04:28) You know, they'll just slip it in a little statement message. They're not forthcoming about it. I promise you they're not like, shooting you multiple emails or calling you and be like, hey, we're going to increase your rate. No, no, no, no, no. They're going to slip it under the table and hope that you never pay attention to it, which is really what happens because you guys are all busy. You guys are all doing amazing care on patients and you're not paying attention to that. That's the reality.   Kiera Dent (04:49) And it's creepy to me because it's also done on things that don't make sense. Like I feel like reading a credit card statement with what they're charging is like reading very highly processed foods. And I'm like, I have no clue what 90 % of these words are. And I feel like it's the same thing when you come to a credit card statement. And so back to this practice, what we did, there's two case studies I wanted to bring to the table today that are my own personal clients that I've referred over to Moolah that I signed up with Moolah. So this practice, again, overhead, let's out produce our problems.   Mark Rasmussen (05:00) That's a good comparison, I like that.   Kiera Dent (05:18) And it was wild because the first month they switched to Moolah, their CPA sent a letter to all of us and said like, hey, what'd you do? Did you switch credit card companies? Your fees are so much lower. Like that fast first month drop down. So we went from about a 10 % fee on what they're producing and collecting to then dropping it down to this 2.89 to 2.39, depending upon if card was present or not, which is super awesome also because then you can get cards.   Mark Rasmussen (05:28) guys.   Kiera Dent (05:44) on auto renew, like on just processing internally and you don't have to, like you can have cards present or not present within the practice, which is so awesome. ⁓ But I was shocked like that fast. And then another practice that we brought to Moolah, they were locked in with another credit card company. And so I didn't know you couldn't do this, Mark. So this was like rookie mistake on me. Like I was, I'm scrappy and I thought, well, okay, fine. You guys are in a contract. So.   just stop processing through that processor, switch everything over to Moolah. Well, you know this Mark and I was rookie so you know what happens. Do you know what happens with those companies?   Mark Rasmussen (06:21) No,   listen, I said that a lot too because technically, really, if the practice is in a contract, and I've said that before, you probably have these miscellaneous junk fees, these monthly minimums that are gonna hit maybe 20, $30 a month. But even if you're paying that minimum and you saved thousands over here, who cares? Pay that minimum, just write that contract out. What happened here in this scenario? Okay.   Kiera Dent (06:44) That was exactly what I said too. So   that's what, cause I was like, why not? I thought the exact same thing. I'm like, okay, if we're looking at, you're able to save 3%, 4 % like higher amounts and we're processing, even if you're processing a hundred thousand or 200,000, like that extra two, 3 % do the math. Like that's surely going to offset the cost. Well, what happened is we actually did that. So a client signed up with you guys. They did that. And we got a letter from the other processor saying,   Mark Rasmussen (06:54) Yeah.   Kiera Dent (07:11) that, we have a minimum and if we don't hit it, it was going to be substantial and to get out of contract, it was going to cost us a thousand dollars. So we literally said, fine, take the thousand dollars because we'd already saved that much through Moolah's savings to be able to like, we're just like, like it's a done deal. Like they were trying to threaten them with this thousand dollar fee, but we were like, that's so minimal to get us out of this contract based on how much we were saving. Now this practice was processing a decent chunk.   Mark Rasmussen (07:32) Right. Right.   Kiera Dent (07:38) But I think even if you're processing like 70,000, 80,000, that one, 2 % stacks up. Like it's insane how much we pay in credit card fees. So those are like the two that I wanted to bring to the, like I said, this is why I have a crush because I hate credit card fees so much. And that's going to lead into our next topic. But Mark, anything you want to add? Cause these were two cases that I've watched since we last met.   Mark Rasmussen (07:45) yeah.   I love that.   Kiera Dent (08:00) ⁓ I'm constantly on the prowl for cheaper people. I love that you guys don't charge for the terminals. You have it set up the next day. There's no contracts. Like that's where I said, like it's your new favorite, like credit card processing. You don't increase the fees. You give our clients reduced rates. If you have multi locations, you guys also take care of those practices. Like it's amazing what you guys do. So that's my like pitch for Moolah, but if you want to add anything else.   Mark Rasmussen (08:22) I love that. wanted to, because you just   like rang a memory. So what you were referring to in that practice, right, where like, okay, you can't just skate by and just pay the minimum, right? Or they were gonna hit him with his fee. Well, another thing I'm gonna tell your listeners out there is, listen, if you don't go with Moolah, great, do your homework. But one thing to look out that I've seen in contracts, which is crazy, is that sometimes you'll see a contract, all right, if you cancel early, it's like a 350 termination fee. Okay, fine.   but I've seen others out there where the processor says they try to enforce liquidated damages. So the processor will say, oh, we've been making, you're in a three year contract, on average we're making like, whatever, $500 a month on your processing. If you leave us now, it's not early termination fee, we're gonna calculate that $500 for the remaining 16, 17 months and they hit you with this liquidated damages thing, crazy. So just be on the lookout for that. If you're doing anywhere that's a contract,   Kiera Dent (08:57) No.   Mark Rasmussen (09:20) Look out for liquidated damages, that's no bueno, but better yet, find somebody that's just not gonna put you in a contract. Much easier.   Kiera Dent (09:26) Yeah. And   also like, okay, Mark, help me understand. And maybe you don't know because you guys don't do this and that's okay. But to me, it feels really funny that I signed a contract with them and there's got to be something in the fine print because I'm like, how did they go from what they told me to being able to add all these extra surcharges later on and increase it when we're in a contract?   Mark Rasmussen (09:43) for sure it's in the fine print.   yeah. It says that any, it basically says that any time at our discretion with 30 days notice, we can make an adjustment to any of your pre-schedule. And so they'll just do that. And then they'll just put a little message, you know, really small font in whatever kind of notification. And you know, in their minds, right? All right, well, we checked off the box. It's super shady. It sucks, but it's, you know, it's out there. Yeah.   Kiera Dent (10:05) Yeah, it is what it is. And I would say   they'll like look at it because two clients that were in contract, we were able to send over every person that I've sent to you guys have just loved who you are, that it's easy, that it's fast, that it's the cheapest processing. And there's a few other features that I think we should talk about. I feel like I'm on like a Moolah sales pitch right now. Like I'm truly not. I just get giddy. Like if you guys hear me talk about Swell,   Mark Rasmussen (10:27) Ha   Kiera Dent (10:30) was Zeke and Google reviews. I have a crush on Swell. They just do Google reviews better than anyone else. And right now, Moolah for sure, you guys are taking the cake on being able to do credit card processing better than any other company that I've come across, which I think is amazing. And so something else that I think is ratcheting fees on practices when we're looking for some of these cashflow leaks is on membership plans. Now, I'm a huge proponent of membership plans. I also think with the economy, with where insurance is reimbursing, ⁓ people are starting to look at like   should we be going out of network? And my big proposal is, hey, yeah, of course, if you want to do that rock on, membership plans really can help with that. But ⁓ there are some membership companies that actually charge pretty outlandish fees. I never wanted to pay for that. I was scrappy in a practice. So what I did is I just charged the patient an annual fee. Well, that was like eight years ago that I was charging an annual fee. And I think you look at today's world, no one wants an annual fee anymore. They just want like a monthly fee and they want it to be low.   Mark Rasmussen (11:02) for   Right. Right.   Kiera Dent (11:28) But managing that is nonsense on my own paying for it. And Moolah, like I've heard through the grapevine, you guys are doing something with membership fees. Can we talk about the membership plans? Talk about how you guys do this. Is it easier? Is it something we can do? Because I think membership plans have to come into play with the insurance situation that offices are in. And also possibly a cash leak if you're paying for heavy management fees on your membership plans.   Mark Rasmussen (11:37) Yeah, yeah, absolutely.   Yeah. So listen, membership discount plans. I've since I've been, I've only been in the industry, you know, dental industry for about four years now. And every year I feel like it's getting traction. More practices are asking about us. I have practices that are doing demos with us and they're like, Hey, I'm doing this demo is driving it because I heard you guys do, you know, membership, discount plan management. And so yes, the answer is we do. ⁓   And as you were looking to, there's a lot of great vendors in this space that just do that, right? And I'm not going to name any names, but there's a lot of great vendors, but they're not inexpensive. Like, you know, there's some decent SAS fees and then you pay per patient enrollment. ⁓ And so when it's, you know, when you look at the net net and you're like, okay, is this really making sense? So what's nice is that we have complete membership discount plan management built into the platform. You can create all your plans. ⁓ You can easily onboard the patient into the system.   Kiera Dent (12:21) Mm-hmm.   Yeah.   Mark Rasmussen (12:48) whether the patient wants to go monthly or annual, like you said, you were doing annual and a lot of the practices that I run into have historically been doing it annually, right? Because to think about billing it on a monthly basis has you like pulling your hair out. But the reality is that the patients and the consumers in the world that we live in, ⁓ everybody looks at whatever they're gonna bring into their life, whether it's a Netflix subscription or it's a car payment or it's anything else, everybody kind of looks at at a monthly basis.   Kiera Dent (13:02) Too hard.   Mark Rasmussen (13:17) And so that is what you want to be delivering. And so with the Moolah platform, you can absolutely manage an in-house membership discount plan and offer both annual and monthly options and truly set it and forget it. Not have to think about it. The system's going to run. The system's going to automatically post that payment into the ledger. In open dental, we even go a step further where when you enroll the patient into the membership, not only are we handling the billing element of it,   But we're also going into the PMS and we're associating that patient to that membership discount plan and keeping track. You know, that's what's really doing all the heavy lifting of keeping track of whatever the one free cleaning of the 10 % off services. And we keep that in lockstep. So if there was like a billing issue, we automatically disassociate the patient from the plan to really just kind of make it pain free. you know, membership discount plans are phenomenal. It's a win win for patients and practice. First of all, it brings some really great reoccurring   Kiera Dent (13:51) Mm-hmm.   Mm-hmm.   Mark Rasmussen (14:14) like trackable revenue into the practice, right? Number two, it's bringing patients like butts in seats ⁓ as well. ⁓ Because the patient looks like, I'm paying $40 a month. I should use it. I should be in there. ⁓ And it's bringing value to the patient. So it's literally just a win-win all around. I really love that for, you know, when you're looking at out of network patients ⁓ and the absolutely, you know, the platform has it built in. So you guys, please, if you're looking at discount plans, memberships,   I encourage you to look at some of the other great vendors out there and then come take a look at us last and see like the value that you get that's included.   Kiera Dent (14:49) That's awesome. Yeah. And again, like there are so many great people out there that are doing it. I just feel, ⁓ when I heard that you guys were doing membership plans, I was like, well, it kind of makes sense because you're already processing credit cards. Like you're already doing the processing. So now something else that is doing a processing is in my processor, into my software, which I just, that was so incredibly clever. And, ⁓ like again, I had another client who, who scoped you against other companies and they were like, gosh, like there's no fees.   Mark Rasmussen (15:03) Great.   Kiera Dent (15:17) compared to other companies with moolah. So that was something I was really excited about. I'm big on just, it's like my insurance. I've been with State Farm forever. And Jason and I giggled, we're like, we need to go and actually like assess and make sure that we're truly getting the best plans. And so I just think like it's good to periodically go and assess and make sure our credit card fees, what they were when we set up.   our membership plans making sense? Is it time to look to possibly renegotiate some certain things? And again, I'm not here to propose one company over another. Like Mark said, do your homework, figure out what's best because there's so many great companies out there. I just really love when it's simple and easy. And that's something I love about you guys, Mark, you guys have the fact that we can send patient statements and like have payments online and they can pay it all times of the day. Like just that alone boosts offices, collections with Moulin. So Mark, I want to go into a dicey topic with you though.   because this one's hot. We had it in our in-person ⁓ doctor and leadership mastermind when we were in Arizona and I loved it. It was like a hot, hot topic and heads up like this might be awkward for you. I don't think it will because of who you are, but there's the question of, and it was hot, like the room was split of people who were pro and con. So the question is with credit card fees being as much as they were, we talked about at the beginning, like ways that we can reduce it.   Mark Rasmussen (16:10) Let's do it.   I know, I wanna hear what the feedback was, because I know where you're going.   Kiera Dent (16:40) Then we talked about reducing membership plans. Now there's a question of, should we actually charge patients the credit card fees? Like this is becoming really popular and I don't blame businesses because inflation's high, labor is higher. So now we're trying to figure out like where could we cut? And so people are like, well, sweet, we're just gonna pass on the credit card fees to our patients. And the room was spicy. There was like people that were so pro and people that like literally people were bristly and it was a...   Mark Rasmussen (17:05) Yeah.   Kiera Dent (17:06) It was quite interesting. So your credit card company, which is where I feel like it's a little awkward to ask you this question, but I want to know, we pro, are we con? Should we charge the patients from your perspective? We're in 2025. So many companies do this. Should people be charging patients the credit card fee? Should they just raise their fees and bake it in? Like, what are your thoughts on this? Because my room was 50 50 split. And I will tell you some of the feedback if you want to hear it, cause it was quite interesting.   Mark Rasmussen (17:13) Yeah.   Okay, okay.   I do. Okay, so the first   thing I want to point out is I expect you to say that the room is split, right? Like half of them are like, yeah, absolutely. You know, I'm not paying for my patients' reward points. And I think the other half of the room was like, yeah, but I'm worried about the optics. Does it look like we're trying to be cheesy or nickel and diming our patients, right? Those are the two ends that are battling each other. The interesting thing is that this hot topic, ⁓ if you would have asked that just three years ago,   Kiera Dent (17:38) Mm-hmm.   Mm-hmm. No.   Mark Rasmussen (18:01) it wouldn't have been 50 50. It   would have been like 80 90 % saying no way and 10 % made me do it. So the trend is is like it is going right and two or three years from now I have a feeling it's going to be like 80 % are doing it and 20 % are not doing it. So the cat is out of the bag. Let's just get that you know right out there in the open. What do I think about it? I'm to be super Switzerland about this and I'm going to say that I think   Kiera Dent (18:06) Agreed. 100 % agree.   I would agree with you.   Remember he's   a credit card processing company.   Mark Rasmussen (18:31) Well,   no, I'm going to say that I think that as a vendor who delivers credit card processing service, I think that I should enable our practices to make that choice for themselves. I think whatever you think you should do for your practice, I want to support it. So if you don't want to do surcharging, great, we love that. If you do want to do surcharging, great, I love that. I just want to give the tools to the practice so they can make that decision. Now, aside what I think about it,   It's a very interesting topic to talk about. Well, what is the net result? I like, all right, how does it work? What does it save? Let's get into it if I may. Okay, so there's a couple ways. There is absolutely there. There is, and there's a couple flavors to this. There's a couple flavors to this. ⁓ there, the, the, what that we do, let me talk about that first. So what we do is what's referred to as compliance surcharging and with compliance surcharging, what is, what you're doing is that   Kiera Dent (19:06) I agree. Cause like, are there rules around it? Like, you actually have to do anything? Okay. I have no idea. Okay.   Mark Rasmussen (19:28) When a customer's paying you with a credit card, the system, system, I'll just speak to our system, most others are similar, but when a patient is paying you, whether it's in practice on the device or whether you sent a text to pay or it's an online payment, our system automatically, real time, looks at the number that the patient put in or used on the terminal. And within a half a second, we're looking back at the credit card network before we even charge it, and we say, is this a credit or is this a debit? If the patient is paying with a credit card,   We then pop on the screen, either on their mobile device or on the terminal, we say, hey, we see you're using a credit card. We're going to add 2.99 % as a fee to you for using a credit card. If you want to use a debit card, you will avoid that fee. So in Compliance Surcharging, what I really like about that is that you're not charging us fee across debit and credit, right? You're still giving your patient the convenience of being able to pay with plastic.   Kiera Dent (20:19) Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm.   Mark Rasmussen (20:25) and still use a debit card because the reality is if you have a credit card in your wallet, there's probably 99 % chance you've got a Visa debit card in your wallet as well. And so you're not pulling away that convenience of them being able to pay plastic and just saying, hey, if you want to avoid that fee, pay cash or check. That's kind of archaic. So with compliance surcharging, you are going to offload your credit card fees to the patient, only the credit card fees. When they pay with a debit card, you will still pay for that, okay?   Kiera Dent (20:43) I agree.   Mark Rasmussen (20:55) With doing that with Moolah, if you're going to pay the debit fee and not pay the credit card fee, we see that the overall net effective rate for the practice ends up being below 1%. It ends up being like, I'm going to throw out a weird term that people are going, what the heck is that? It's usually going to be around 75 or 80 basis points. About three quarters of 1 % is going to be your net overall cost, which is huge savings, right? Huge savings.   Kiera Dent (21:07) No.   Crazy, like insane. Just do   some math. If you did a million dollars and you were able to basically save, gosh, so much.   Mark Rasmussen (21:28) No, let's just say,   the reality is you're probably saving one and a half percent. So on a million dollar practice, that practice is gonna put about $15,000 back to their bottom line. Like, and that's it, and it was painless. And you're still not really, yeah, exactly.   Kiera Dent (21:37) Exactly.   And that's also for payments you're already collecting. Like this is already   money we're collecting, we just get to keep more of it rather than having the credit card processing fee.   Mark Rasmussen (21:47) Yes.   And it doesn't need to like, you know, break brain cells for you to try and figure it out. Like the system is going to automatically calculate it. We're going to organize it. ⁓ It's just, it's painless. We're handling it in the PMS correctly. listen, the savings cannot be ignored. Like we talked about the cats out of the bag. You're going to see more businesses across more different verticals. ⁓ And the reality is   We've all been around it for a long, long time, right? Who's been doing it forever? Gas stations, right? We've seen it on there. Cash credit, right? That's been there forever. And we're all used to it. And you also typically see a lot when you're dealing with like state or federal agencies, you ever gone on and make an online tax payment, they usually charge a fee there. So it's just now getting more, you know, ⁓ rolling out. Yeah.   Kiera Dent (22:40) Nail salons for the girls out there. We all know the   nail salons. They'll say like, it's a 3 % charge if you use credit card. I'm like, here's your cash. Like it's clever. They push us to what they want.   Mark Rasmussen (22:49) Yeah, yeah. Yeah, yeah.   So it is listen. So I, I believe in delivering the technology to our clients, I don't have an opinion one way or the other, whatever you feel is good. I will tell you though that I think a lot of practices, especially on the on the one half of the room that are like against it. I think what we're finding is that people are not pushing back as much as   you think they are because consumers are just getting used to it. And again, the fact that at least with our practices, you're still giving your patient the ability to have that convenience and pay with a debit card and not have the fee. If they were doing like the model where they call it, know, cash discount, where you're going to hit the debit card and you're going to hit the credit card, I think you get more pushback on that, but you're still giving that convenience. So yeah, I'm a fan of it. We get, like I said, more and more requests of it. ⁓   It's not going anywhere. yeah, we're here to support your practice. If you guys want to try it out, try it out and listen, here's the thing.   Kiera Dent (23:50) Yeah.   How does it work in practice   though? Like, so someone's standing in front of me at a terminal, I'm collecting money in person. How does this work? Because it's not gonna pop up on my like treatment plan that I just gave them or on my ledger. So how do I do that?   Mark Rasmussen (24:00) Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah.   It'll pop up on the terminal.   so first thing we do, we give the practices, ⁓ you know, some template messaging and they'll just want to put up something by the front desk. And it says something to the effect of that, you know, this office adds a surcharge when using a credit card, ⁓ not beyond, you know, what our costs are, right? This is not a money, additional money revenue is trying to like, you know, make arbitrage between costs and no, I'm only going to pass off. And so.   Kiera Dent (24:32) Great.   Mark Rasmussen (24:35) the patient is aware of it, they've seen it, and then when they go to use it on the terminal, if they're in practice, when they go to run the credit card, it will pop up on the screen and your team can just show it to the patient, they'll see it, that it's adding it because they're using the credit card. And it'll give them an option if they want to accept it or if they want to back out of it and try again with a debit card and avoid the fee, really easy.   Kiera Dent (24:58) Okay, that's actually really helpful. And now I have a question because I don't know this. How does this work? Because technically the practice is collecting more money, right? Like we are taking the fee plus the credit card fee. ⁓   Mark Rasmussen (25:10) Let's say it's $100 and let's just say we're   adding that surcharge so now it's $103. Okay? Yeah. Yeah.   Kiera Dent (25:14) Right, so that's $3 more per $100 transaction. But   does that impact them in tax? I would think no, because credit card companies still charging us the 3%. Like, how does this work? Are you following what I'm saying? how does this impact you?   Mark Rasmussen (25:26) Yeah, I do. So you   don't have anything else to like, you know, break your brain on that. Our system, first of all, will break out the surcharge in the reporting. Okay. So it's really clean. Furthermore, the addition, the $103, right, like the customer got charged, the patient got charged $103. But our system automatically calculates it, that you have a fee of 3 % and that you surcharge the patient 3%. So the practice is still just going to get the full $100.   Kiera Dent (25:36) Mm-hmm.   Mm-hmm.   Mark Rasmussen (25:56) It's as if they took a cash payment. So it's easy for them. They're not getting 10.99 at the $103, so to speak. It's just still truly only taking $100, which is great.   Kiera Dent (25:57) Gotcha. Okay.   Mm-hmm. ⁓   Yeah, because that's what   I was curious like, and like some things have sales tax. So didn't know like surcharges, do they get taxed differently or is it just like accepting cash, same thing for a practice? Okay. Now, so that's really helpful. And that helps me see on the ledger. So are you guys synced into the PMS for it to say, because like if my ledger says a hundred dollars, but I'm now doing 3 % surcharge on it.   Mark Rasmussen (26:18) Exactly, total amount, total amount, yeah.   Yes.   Kiera Dent (26:35) I'm going to be posting $103. How do I make sure that all of my ledgers match up?   Mark Rasmussen (26:40) So   we'll post $100 in the ledger, okay? And then we'll have a procedure code for the surcharge. And then we'll also have an offsetting so that it doesn't mess up your balance. So you can easily run reports based on the procedure code. I can see what my surcharge is, but it's not messing up and showing that, I took in $103 on this $100 transaction. So your ledger is gonna stay nice and clean.   and not be a nightmare, 100%.   Kiera Dent (27:10) Okay,   because that's I was like, Oh, great. Because there was another office that I heard about. And Mark, I'm just curious about your opinion on this. And then we're gonna get back to this like spicy and thanks for walking through this. There was another practice, I've literally never heard of this before. So I'm curious if you have or if you recommend or don't this practice. So let's say a patient, the total is $100, they pay the $100, the practice literally posted on the ledger.   Mark Rasmussen (27:28) Mm-hmm.   Kiera Dent (27:38) instead of being $100 because now they lost $3, they posted $97 on the ledger and they were taking out the surcharge. Have you ever heard of that? Because I had never heard it. I was, do you recommend that? Because I've never recommended that, right? And I think as a patient, I'd feel really angry though. no, I gave you 100 bucks, but you gave me 97. Like I would just.   Mark Rasmussen (27:48) I haven't.   That seems wonky. Yeah.   Right. Or   continue that on. How about now all of a sudden a week later you go to refund it and we're we're refunding you 97. You're like, no, no, no, I paid you 100. It's gonna be messed up in so many levels.   Kiera Dent (28:09) Right. I was just curious.   I was like, I mean, maybe I'm archaic on how I do this. I used to just do it that way and then accept that that would just be a cost on my PNL. But now there's a way for you to actually offset it with the process. So my question is going back to that, that's actually helpful. Thank you. So if you're doing that, definitely recommend not doing that anymore. ⁓ But I was like, Hey, I've never heard of this. Maybe that is the right way to do the accounting on it. But it felt very messy to me. Now,   Do we as the practice need to put in the surcharge as that procedure code when we're charging that out or does Moolah automatically sync it in and put the surcharge of the procedure code?   Mark Rasmussen (28:48) We have, yeah,   automatically done. There's nothing for you to do. Yeah. So during onboarding, we will set up, we will work with the practice, obviously. We'll make sure that we have a procedure code set up for them. And so during the onboarding, we'll have that so that when you do run a surcharge transaction like that, there's nothing you need to do. It'll all be handled in the ledger correctly.   Kiera Dent (28:51) Amazing. I love it. This is why I said I have a preference on you.   and you're in all softwares. What softwares does Moolah sink into?   Mark Rasmussen (29:10) Yes, so ⁓ Open Dental, ⁓ Dentrix, G7, and ⁓ newer server-based, not Ascend. And we're actually going to be ⁓ releasing, finally, this has been a long time coming, we're finally going live with Eagle Soft ⁓ Beta at end of next week. So Open Dental, Dentrix, and Eagle Soft. Yeah.   Kiera Dent (29:28) Awesome.   That's awesome. Okay, very cool. And   then if you're not in one of those and you can just obviously add this in, it wouldn't be automatically synced. And I think like of those ones though, huge win this way. Okay, now we'll go back to the spicy. I will tell you guys how the room was divided. The room was divided, I'll be right. The do it, don't do it. And then the like, there's a middle ground, which I thought the middle ground was kind of convenient. ⁓ There wasn't, but I did see people like it. I did feel like it was like,   Mark Rasmussen (29:45) Yes.   Was there any physical fighting going on? Okay.   Kiera Dent (30:00) like politics and religion status. Like it was like very cut through the room. I do agree with you. And that's what I said. I was like, you guys, this 2025, this is going to take place in the future and it will be very common. just, think our early adopters going to stay or not. It's your choice. Um, I've always been of the opinion like, no, just bake it into your fee. And now I'm like, well, everybody's starting to charge for it. Like, why not? Um, so it was don't charge for it now. Another was like, no, put it in. People are doing it anyway. And the middle ground, which I thought was   Mark Rasmussen (30:02) Right. Right, right, right.   Kiera Dent (30:30) of a good way to do it is in person. They didn't charge a fee, but any of their online statements, they did charge a fee because they said most people who pay online know there's usually a service fee associated with it. So I thought that was kind of a, an easy way. If you guys are looking for a navigation through it. ⁓ but I think like, honestly, it's just like anything else, train your patients if you want to, but don't feel like you have to, I think it'd just be something to consider. So, but again,   Like get the reduction, like if nothing else, like switch to a processor that's going to be reduced fees anyway. So even if you want to continue offering it, you're still saving on that. Mark, I have one last thing that I wanted to dive into. I'm hearing from a lot of like integrated softwares. So like dental Intel and Flex and some of these other ones that literally make practice lives easier. They're having processors in there that are just integrated right into that. They're using it all the time.   Mark Rasmussen (31:20) Yeah.   Kiera Dent (31:25) How does Moolah play in those worlds? Like, do you get the same pricing? Do we not get the same pricing? Are some of those better because they're already bundled in? Again, I'm putting you on like really awkward topics, but I just want to know. I want to know how does this work.   Mark Rasmussen (31:35) No, no, not at all. So listen, you mentioned Flex. We   love Flex, okay? I love Flex, not just because, yes, they're a partner of ours, right? And yes, your Mool account works beautifully and integrated with Flex. But I love Flex just because I think they're like cut from the same cloth that we are. Like we just, at the end of the day, we want to over-deliver, right? We want to over-deliver, whether it's technology, whether it's value, and they have that mindset. And so I love the Flex team. Full disclosure.   ⁓ And so we've been an integrated partner with Flex for, gosh now, I think three years. So yeah, I think they deliver a ton of value to any open dental practice. So anybody out there for sure should check out Flex. They are amazing. Dental Intel. So we used to be, ⁓ not to bore the audience, but like we used to have an integration with Modento and then Dental Intel acquired Modento.   Kiera Dent (32:33) Yep.   Mark Rasmussen (32:33) and   then Dental Intel wanted to roll up their own integrated credit card processing. And so they have now. so, listen, ⁓ we wish Dental Intel the best, wish them well, but yeah, we're no longer integrated with Dental Intel, but yeah, Flex, we love Flex.   Kiera Dent (32:49) Okay, because I was just curious. Now, I feel if it's bundled, is this a time where offices should just be strategic? I'm not saying anyone's doing it. I haven't looked at it. So I'm not here to like cast judge or I just want to make sure offices are being smart. I would think when they're bundled or they're integrated, offices should still check even using MULA. They should still be watching their credit card statements every single month, right? Like no matter what, just to always make sure things are staying clean and also before we sign up with anybody.   Mark Rasmussen (33:08) Mm-hmm.   100%.   Kiera Dent (33:19) Like literally read the fine print and look for it. Yes. No. I from like, let's just go all the way back.   Mark Rasmussen (33:23) Yeah.   And I would always say that, you know, let's just take the Flex example. Flex has, you and I won't name anything, I'll let you guys out there, you go check it out to yourself, but there are three options. I encourage you, especially when we're talking about a vendor that you're looking at, and especially when this vendor that you're looking at revolves around your cashflow, right? Like it's a pretty integral part of a vendor that you're bringing into your ecosystem. call them, talk to them.   Kiera Dent (33:46) Mm-hmm.   Mark Rasmussen (33:54) Call in the middle of the day. Do they pick up the phone? Do they answer? Can you talk to somebody very easily? Like really pop the hood and take a look at who you're going to get in and do business with, especially when it's, you know, that vendor is like controlling your cash flow on a daily basis. So yes, please you guys out there, do your homework, look at the agreements, ask questions, and see what's right for you. Yeah.   Kiera Dent (34:10) Yeah.   That's awesome. just, again,   I wanted to like go into it because these are things I'm hearing. I'm hearing people say like, this seamlessly integrates. I know you seamlessly integrate. I know you guys are constantly working to refine, to get into more and more practice management softwares to make it easier. Just Mark, as we wrap up, like this has been fun. I love the like, thanks for going into some of the spices with me. ⁓ But just as a quick rundown, like what are some of the features that Moola does? We talked about the membership plans. We did talk about that Dental A Team clients get 10 % basis points less for card present or card not present.   Mark Rasmussen (34:33) Always is.   Yep.   Kiera Dent (34:47) Which to me that alone, I would just look into it and see, like I said, two clients literally saved money by like dumping their contracts and moving over, which I think to me, like before I can have a crush on a company, I test them pretty heavily. So to see the proof in the pudding, I was so just elated and it made me even like you guys more. But what else does Moola do? Because I know you guys do a lot of other things that just make life easy.   Mark Rasmussen (35:05) I love that. yeah, yeah. So   at the end of the day, we do a lot, but it's all payment related and will always be payment related, right? So we're focused on being like, we try to be like the end all be all payment solution for dentists. And so when you look at like, what does a dental office need from a payment perspective, ⁓ it's in practice payments, right? So we provide you guys the physical devices. So   No more having to buy rent or lease those terminals. We're going to include them. you know, not only, yeah, they're wireless. Yeah, they're really cool. Aesthetically, they look really good. Yeah. And, and here's the other great part too, that I think it's kind of underrated ⁓ is of course, not only did we include them. the practice didn't need to buy them, but like normally, you know, with our peers, you have to buy these devices and then you buy them and then it's like one year warranty, right? And then like Murphy's law always kicks in.   Kiera Dent (35:37) They're awesome too. They're portable. They can go back to the hygiene operatories. It's amazing. So your hygienist can take it. Like they're awesome. It's so great.   Mark Rasmussen (36:01) like it loves to do. like, okay, month 14, the device just, you know, went out on you. And then you're gonna sorry, you got to buy another five $600 device with mula you guys will literally never have hardware expense ever because we give them to you on the front end. And we will warranty them forever. As long as you're with us. I don't care four or five, six years. If there's new devices that come out and your guys age out, we're going to replace them. Even if you drop it off the counter and crack the screen.   We don't care, we're gonna replace it for you. There's no fear or premium. So, in practice payments, we have you covered there from a technology standpoint as well as a hardware standpoint. Moving on, there's also, have the ability to, like you were talking about earlier, store patient cards securely tokenized. Nothing's ever touching the practices servers. It's all on our servers, but it's giving you the convenience of having those stored cards for the patient. You can have as many stored cards as you want. You can even send a request to the patient.   before their appointment and the patient from easily from home from their mobile device could add their credit card. And so when they come in, it's already stored and it's available to use. So stored cards, yeah, yeah, yeah.   Kiera Dent (37:07) With that, can I ask, do you guys have   the compliance paperwork? Is there anything you have to do to get a patient to have a stored credit card that we can run for future payments? once insurance pays, because I know that's a big thing of storing cards on file, do you have anything with that? Because I know that this is a zone.   Mark Rasmussen (37:23) Yep. What I...   Yeah, no. So it's very obvious as far as the process of the patient adding the card. Like when you send the message, it says, hey, would you like to securely store your card on file? Right? Beyond that, what I've seen some practices do is just they'll just include it in their overall like new patient intake forms and kind of include it in their terms of service of that. Hey, listen, if you want to store a card on file with us, you can. And you allow, once you store a card, you're giving us the authorization to utilize that card.   Kiera Dent (37:35) Mm-hmm.   Mark Rasmussen (37:51) for other future balances. As simple as that, that's all you need to do.   Kiera Dent (37:54) which is so smart you   guys think about it. This is where so many other industries do this. They have a card on file. I mean, I go to the spa, my cards on file, they run that card when I'm gone, like I authorize it to happen. So they never out of money. They're never chasing money down. Like it just to me makes so much more sense of a way to process.   Mark Rasmussen (38:12) Can you imagine if   Netflix or all the other subscriptions, if they had to wait for a payment every month and wait, come on, no. Subscription is the way, 100%. So, okay, so store card on file they get. The other thing they get is the ability to create and manage in-house payment plans. And of course, automatically post those payments to the ledger. We have some great things where if the payment fails, right? They're into the plan for three months and all of sudden the July payment fails.   Kiera Dent (38:18) No. No.   Yeah.   Mark Rasmussen (38:41) our system will automatically notify the practice, notify the patient, and what's cool is that the software will allow the patient to self-administer and fix it. So the software is not telling the patient, your card failed, call the front desk. No, we're gonna save a phone call there. The software will allow the patient to tell the software, okay, either A, try to charge that card again, or B, they can actually upload a new card on file.   So the cool stat on that is that in failed transactions in our payment plans, we see patients solving it between themselves and software within the first 24 hours at a rate of over 80%, which is huge. So payment plans, and then we talked about earlier, you also get the ability to manage any of your in-house membership or discount plans. ⁓ We have the collecting on a balance when the patient is out of practice, ⁓ sending a payment request either   Kiera Dent (39:20) Holy cow, it's amazing.   Mark Rasmussen (39:37) allocated or unallocated payment request can attach a statement. ⁓ We also have the ability to host a payment page on their website. So if you want to put a little navigation, click here to make an online after hours payment, we'll host that page for the practice. ⁓ So yeah, we really kind of just looked at it a full circle of like, where are all the payment touch points that our practice is dealing with, and just trying to deliver these really amazing tools. And again, as you know, our model.   ⁓ There's never any monthly fees. There's never any set up fees. There's never any annual fees ⁓ All there are these two simple flat rates and again, you can cancel it anytime you want never locked in anything   Kiera Dent (40:18) That's awesome. Mark, I appreciate this so much. How do people, like know they just connect with you, schedule a demo. You guys will look at their credit card processing, see how you guys can fix it. How do they connect with you specifically if they're interested? And specifically The Dental A Team, The Dental A Team, perks.   Mark Rasmussen (40:33) I would recommend and maybe we can list this in the podcast, but there will be a specific Moolah URL. It's like forward slash The Dental A Team They should go there and then they can schedule a demo. And then if they go there, then we're going to know it came from you guys. That way we can get them that 10 basis point savings forever. So just schedule a demo with us and no pressure. We're like the most like   the least salesy organization I think that you guys will ever run into. All we wanna do is inform you. We wanna show you what we have. We're not for everybody. ⁓ But assuming that you guys love what you see, we encourage you to try us out and check us out and see if we're gonna be a great fit for your practice.   Kiera Dent (41:13) Yeah, for sure. You guys, honestly, I love Moolah They're incredible. So on our website, we will link it. So the way you get to Moolah, it's on our website, TheDentalATeam.com. And then you can click on the About Partnerships Mulas right there. ⁓ And the actual, like if you guys want our direct link here, it would be TheDentalATeam.com slash partnerships slash Moolah. And that should take you right to Moolah's page. It's also mula.cc slash partners.   So that helps you guys will also link that in the show notes mark. I appreciate you guys so much Things are being on the podcast things are going through the spicy with me. I appreciate you so much   Mark Rasmussen (41:52) Any time, love you guys, you guys are the best and ⁓ have a great rest of day.   Kiera Dent (41:58) Hey, you too, for all of you listening. Thanks for listening and we'll catch you next time on The Dental A Team Podcast.  

In this episode:The boat is rocking,the boat's rocking... and the boat is rocking!!!!  Support the showClick the link above to head over to Patreon where you can join our community & access ad-free, early release episodes from $2 per month (USD) or for $5 USD per month enjoy all the above perks AND our weekly bonus episode 'The Wrap Up' for Patreon subscribers only! You can also support us by clicking the link below to purchase a 'virtual coffee'! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaftdeckpodAs an entirely independent podcast, we appreciate ALL of your support!!! Ask us questions, give us your thoughts on the show or tell us what you'd like us to cover in future episodes at theaftdeckpod@gmail.com or DM us @theaftdeck.podMusic by: AudioCoffee (Denys Kyshchuk)

A writer first, Dan developed a love for surfing in the cold San Francisco water and turned heavily towards his move to Florida in his latest work On a Rising Swell, a memoir slash collection of his best work with surfing as a central character. Take the time to read this fantastic rendering from the mind of one of surfing's best new contributors. Our chat covers his stories and inspiration as well as his humble, positive, and soulful voice. Enjoy and check out his new book here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dropping In Surf Show Episode 56 features Swell – what is swell, how swell it created, how swell travels and what happens when swell arrives and concludes on our shorelines. This episode is a continuation of the Wind episode. Watch the video of this episode at https://www.surfingpaddling.com/dropping-in-surf-show

Captain Liz Clark (@CaptainLizClark) spent her youth dreaming of traveling the world by sailboat and surfing remote waves. At the age of 22, she met a mentor who helped turn her desire into reality. Embarking on an adventure that most only fantasize about, she set sail from Santa Barbara, California, as captain of her 40-foot sailboat, Swell, headed south in search of surf and self. Liz captured her voyage in her memoir, Swell, sharing tales of sailing in high seas, of solitude and surprises. During this podcast, we explored Liz's relationship to God, her experience setting down roots in Tahiti, and her daily habits that led to her completed memoir. If you dig this podcast, will you please leave a short review on Apple Podcasts? It takes less than 60 seconds and makes a difference when I drop to my knees and beg hard-to-get guests on the show. I read them all. You can watch this podcast on my YouTube channel and join my newsletter on Substack. It's glorious.This is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Kyle Thiermann at thiermann.substack.com/subscribe

Captain Liz Clark (@CaptainLizClark) spent her youth dreaming of traveling the world by sailboat and surfing remote waves. At the age of 22, she met a mentor who helped turn her desire into reality. Embarking on an adventure that most only fantasize about, she set sail from Santa Barbara, California, as captain of her 40-foot sailboat, Swell, headed south in search of surf and self. Liz captured her voyage in her memoir, Swell, sharing tales of sailing in high seas, of solitude and surprises. During this podcast, we explored Liz's relationship to God, her experience setting down roots in Tahiti, and her daily habits that led to her completed memoir. If you dig this podcast, will you please leave a short review on Apple Podcasts? It takes less than 60 seconds and makes a difference when I drop to my knees and beg hard-to-get guests on the show. I read them all. You can watch this podcast on my YouTube channel and join my newsletter on Substack. It's glorious.This is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Kyle Thiermann at thiermann.substack.com/subscribe

Steven Tripp joined me on the podcast 18/04/25 to catch up on all the latest...

The inaugural "Next-Gen 401(k) Report" from KWP Growth Partners is being released on April 8, unveiling a dozen transformative trends that are shaping the future of retirement plans, putting the spotlight on 60 leading digital-forward companies that are driving innovation in the workplace retirement plan space.Will Prest, Managing Partner for KWP Growth Partners and Lisa Kottler, KWP's Partner of Strategic Growth and Innovation, join this episode of the 401(k) Specialist Podcast to discuss the new report and what makes it a valuable new resource for firms throughout the workplace retirement plan ecosystem.Key InsightsNext Gen 401(k) Report Launches with 12 Key TrendsKWP Growth Partners released the inaugural Next Gen 401(k) Report spotlighting 60 innovative companies and 12 transformative trends shaping the retirement industry. Designed for advisors, recordkeepers, asset managers, and fintechs, the report helps stakeholders identify emerging opportunities and collaborate for better retirement outcomes​.Collaboration Over Competition in RetireTechA major takeaway is the growing collaboration between legacy firms and challenger retiretech brands. Instead of competing, firms are forming strategic partnerships—like John Hancock with Swell—to broaden market access, accelerate innovation, and close the retirement coverage gap​.Top Trends: AI, Embedded Solutions & Human-Centered DesignAmong the top trends are AI-driven personalization, embedded solutions like guideline and Gusto's payroll integration, and user-friendly, jargon-free design. These trends are enhancing engagement, efficiency, and inclusivity across retirement platforms​.See Also:‘RetireTech Map 1.0' Highlights Retirement Plan Industry Innovators

The 2025 season has started for the Colorado Rockies, I bet it goes SWELL!  

In this episode I dive into the Trump's "Liberation Day" tariff's, what they mean for crypto, the bear case for crypto in 2025, the current state of liquidity and macro and a ton more.-----------THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

In this episode I dive into macro and what's driving the crypto markets right now. Are we back or are we headed lower from here? What's bringing us higher this week and will it last long term?-----------THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

Jase declares that he felt a swell of American pride when he heard about Elon Musk's rescue of the stranded space crew, even though he thinks Heaven will be way more fun than space travel. Al reveals his caveman roots with a single word, and the guys explore the myth of “big” and “small” works for Christ, though such things can never be measured in this life. Zach proposes that shame and pride are merely two sides of the same coin, not opposites. Plus, how did Jesus baptize people into His death, burial, and resurrection before it even happened? In this episode: John 3, verses 22-30; John 4, verse 2; 1 Corinthians 1, verse 12; 1 Corinthians 12, verse 12; 1 Corinthians 15, verse 19 “Unashamed” Episode 1061 is sponsored by: https://smartcredit.com/phil — Get a 7-day trial for just $1, see how many points you can add to your credit score! https://tomorrowclubs.org/unashamed  — Bring hope to kids in some of the darkest corners of the world. Help us hit our goal of 1,200 new Tomorrow Clubs members this month! https://homechef.com/unashamed  — Get 18 Free Meals, Free Dessert for Life, and Free Shipping on your first box! https://fastgrowingtrees.com/unashamed — Save up to half-off on select plants and when you use code DUCK at checkout you'll get an additional 15% off! Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. - Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your environment shapes your future whether you grow or self-destruct often depends on who you surround yourself with. Isolation isn't always the answer, especially if you're struggling. Being around winners, people who see the best in you can make all the difference. The right circle will challenge you, support you, and pull greatness out of you, even when you don't see it in yourself. I share a personal story about Swell, a moment where I had to step in and make sure he saw what he was truly capable of. Sometimes, when you're around people who want to win, they don't just push themselves—they push you too. That energy is contagious, it creates a cycle of growth, accountability, and success. Reach one, teach one. The more you're surrounded by people who strive for the best, the more you develop the habit of doing the same for others. It pays forward naturally.

“This recording is taken just off of the pier around midnight. The sea was so full of character I was completely enthralled and if you listen carefully you can hear […]

In this episode I dive into macro, the markets, why we keep going lower and what could finally bring an end to this pain. Is crypto going lower or is there an end in sight?-----------THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

March 12, 2025Today's Reading: Genesis 8:13-9:17Daily Lectionary: Genesis 8:13-9:17; Genesis 9:18-11:26; Mark 4:1-20“Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image.” (Genesis 9:6)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. There's something special about the blood. Prior to the flood, God had given man “every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit” as food (Gen. 1:29). But when Noah emerged from the ark, God provided a new menu. “Every moving thing that lives shall be food for you. And as I gave you the green plants, I give you everything” (Gen. 9:3). There's one caveat, though. “But you shall not eat flesh with its life, that is, its blood” (Gen. 9:4). There's something special about the blood. “The life of the flesh is in the blood,” says the Lord through Moses (Lev. 17:11). The blood has a special use. Because of this, the blood of man is sacred. “And for your lifeblood I will require a reckoning: from every beast I will require it and from man. From his fellow man I will require a reckoning for the life of man. ‘Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image'” (Gen. 9:5-6).The ethical dimension of this declaration indicates that all human life has dignity because God made man in His own image. Shedding the blood of man is a direct assault upon God, and the penalty is severe. But an even more interesting spiritual dimension begins to emerge when you realize that Genesis 9 echoes Genesis 1. And when you compare God's Word to Noah to His Word to Adam, you see what's so special about the blood.To both Noah and Adam, God makes a declaration concerning his image in a poetic verse (Gen. 1:27; Gen. 9: 6). He follows this declaration with a command and a blessing, “Be fruitful and multiply” (Gen. 1:28; Gen. 9:7). And He gives instructions concerning food. Adam receives all plants and Noah all meat. But God has a caveat for Adam, just as He has for Noah. Just as Noah was forbidden to eat the blood, Adam was forbidden to eat of the fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.The Tree of Knowledge had God's Word attached to it, Martin Luther remarks, and so was a place of worship. Likewise, God reserved the blood for His Word and for worship. “Drink of it, all of you; this cup is the new testament in My blood, which is shed for you for the forgiveness of sins” (Words of Institution). There's something special about the blood. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Lift we, then, our voices, Swell the mighty flood; Louder still and louder Praise the precious blood! (LSB 433:6)-Rev. Jacob Ehrhard, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Chicago, IL.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Visit the timeless rhythms of the Christian life with award-winning author Harold L. Senkbeil. As he addresses the concerns and pressures of the world today, you'll discover that even while the world is dying, Christ's death brings about life. True life. One that He offers to you. Order Now!

RD is back for another Friday Happy Hour to kickoff March and chatting about whatever pops into my head. I'm old so it gets kind of random. Cheers!Tonight's happy hour choice... Mighty Swell Tiger's Blood Thanks for watching!#seltzer #spikedseltzer #tigersblood #mightyswell #strikeoutbeer #happyhour

In this episode I talk about what's causing the crypto market to crash, what it means for the overall market, what macro is hinting at coming next, and when I think we'll start to see crypto finally turn around.-----------THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

As authored by Dashel Pierson.

Send us a textOn today's episode of The Quivercast, we sit down with former pro surfer, designer, and shaper Parrish Byrne @pbyrne1. Growing up around surfboards, Parrish developed a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship behind a well-made board. Shaping always felt natural to him, but before fully diving into that world, he made his mark as a competitive surfer. While he had the skills to perform at a high level, his success in contests was often driven by strategy—winning at all costs but always keeping it in the water. His calculated approach helped him navigate the pro circuit before transitioning into the business side of the surf industry.After his competitive career, Parrish took the reins of the family business, Byrne Surfboards @byrne_surf, where he now serves as the head designer. Under his leadership, Byrne Surfboards continues to push the boundaries of high-performance surfboard design while also offering models for surfers of all levels. Their commitment to quality and innovation ensures that every board meets the demands of modern surfing. Tune in to hear Parrish's journey from pro surfing to shaping, his insights on board design, and what sets Byrne Surfboards apart in today's surf industry!Buy a Byrne Surfboard!Support the showBUY THE ENDLESS SUMMER BOX SET HERE!If you like the QuiverCast here are some ways to help us keep going! I always like Coffee! Buy me a Coffee! Find Us: Website: thequivercast.com Instagram: @quiver_cast Facebook: The QuiverCast Sound Editing by: The Steele Collective

In this episode I dive into the sideways market we've been going through and try to map out what comes next. I also dive into the macro picture, the recent memecoin drama, the long term picture for crypto, why volatility is normal, FTX repayments, Grok 3's Altseason prediction and more.-----------THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

"The big lesson for life is no matter how prepared you are, life will throw you curveballs - and actually, those are sometimes the most wonderful and serendipitous stories that you will ever get a chance to create." In this episode, WomenHeard host Julie Hochheiser Ilkovich interviews Pilar Guzmán, Editorial Director at Oprah Daily - the eponymous media and membership community from Hearst Magazines and Oprah Winfrey! Pilar oversees content strategy across the brand's platforms. Pilar is a three-time Editor-in-Chief (formerly Condé Nast Traveler, Martha Stewart Living, and Cookie Magazine) who started her career journey writing travel guides! From road tripping through Italy to having a front row seat to all things digital media in New York, Pilar worked in both print and multi-platform magazine focuses. She also co-founded The Swell, a global community and learning platform helping people navigate the second half of their lives. Listen to this episode for the career advice that solidified Pilar's path in creative endeavors. Plus, how she elevated awareness for women's health issues by crowdsourcing wisdom from new mothers. 

In this episode I talk to Mike Horton founder of Geodnet a DePIN project that uses small mining devices to make GPS hyper accurate for robotics, self driving and more. In this episode we dive into Geodnet and their token GEOD, as well as their mining devices, how much people make mining GEOD, their profits, future plans and more.-----------THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

November transitions come to Saint Michaels. Based on the works by Blacksheep. Listen to the ► Podcast at Steamy Stories. Gordon & Miah Go On Holiday, before the hectic Advent flurry. Manchester Airport was busier than usual today. At Terminal 2, ranks of chairs were filled with passengers desperate to board flights to warmer climates. People from all walks of life headed along the concourse. Black, White, Asian, singles, couples, entire families, a group of American tourists arguing over the most mystical of all British customs -- queuing, cancerously-tanned tourists drifting homeward on the fumes of suntan lotion, pale tourists arriving with the damp smell of a cloudy country clinging to them -and drifting serenely through the crowds, a church organist and his much-younger girlfriend. "Well this is it!" Miah grinned as she and Gordon made their way to the departure gate. "Can't wait to get away from this awful weather!" Gordon replied, fiddling with his boarding pass. It was the middle of November. The rain had been relentless for the past few months, and showed no signs of easing. They boarded the Jet2 737 for the four and a half-hour flight to Tenerife South. They were seated in seats D and E on row 12 in the middle of the aircraft, which happened to be the emergency exit row. To Miah's delight, she'd got the window seat. "Oh nice!" she exclaimed, noting the larger amount of legroom. "Yeah, I was determined that we weren't going to be crammed in like sardines for four hours," Gordon replied, putting his hand luggage in the overhead bin. "Also, not wanting to sound like an anti-social old git, but I'd rather not sit next to anyone else either. Last year I had to fly to Poland, to help restore an old organ in Krakow. The outbound flight was a nightmare. Got wedged next to a fifty-stone bloke for two hours." "Also handy for other things," she winked at him as she fastened her seatbelt. "Our first holiday together. I can't believe it's actually happening. Oh Gordy, this is going to be unforgettable, I just know it." The flight was fully-booked and it seemed to take an eternity for everyone to board. Gordon observed the other passengers with his usual cynical eye. As a frequent flyer, he'd seen it all. This flight was no different. A middle-aged man wearing a Panama hat was taking his time, fiddling with the overhead bin, completely oblivious to the fact he was blocking the aisle. A family of four behind him tutted impatiently. A couple of rows in front, a young blonde woman with false nails and surgically enhanced lips was taking selfies, no doubt for Instagram. Gordon raised an eyebrow as she pouted and tilted her smartphone, almost elbowing an elderly man in the face. Obviously an influencer of some sort, he assumed. And what could be more glamorous than a selfie on a charter flight to Tenerife? Ah, the joys of modern air travel, Gordon thought to himself. And as soon as the seatbelt sign light goes out, folk will be up and heading to the loo. Miah was more interested in looking out of the window. "I want this to be a wonderful time, Miah. I hope it's as fun for you as it will be for me." He kissed her gently. "A week of sun, sea and lots of food. I just hope you won't be bored. I mean, there are excursions we can go on, you don't need to be stuck round the pool all day..." She was quick to reassure him. "Gordy, that's perfection to me. Family holidays with my parents were never relaxing. Dad was an action man, always wanting to do adventure stuff -- paragliding, rock climbing. I never wanted to do anything like that. For one thing, I'm terrified of heights. So I was always dumped in the hotel's Kid's Club whilst they went off enjoying themselves. I never liked those activities. I just wanted to be on the beach. Best holiday I had was when I went to Turkey with Jenna and her parents when I was twelve." "Well our hotel is right on the beach, so you're all sorted!" Gordon smiled back. "A full week away from St. Michael's Church and its organ! Finally my fingers can get a much-needed holiday. Plus, it'll be nice not to have Reverend Morris emailing all the time." "His sermons never get any better do they?" Miah replied. "Jenna did say she was trying to help him there." "Hmm, she needs to try harder." Gordon fastened his seatbelt. The vicar's wife had many talents, but improving her husband's sermons didn't seem to be one of them. He cast his mind back to Easter Sunday service. "Is Jenna still in the Guild Voices choir?" "Yes. She really likes it. Their choirmaster Derek said she has a perfect voice." Gordon chuckled to himself and wondered whether Jenna had worked her special magic on Derek. The fact she'd been using an egg vibrator during the Easter Sunday service seemed proof of that. Reclining in the seat, his mind briefly flashed back to his encounter with Harriet, his old crush. She'd be back in Australia now. He knew he'd never see her again. It was as if a long-abandoned loose end had finally been tied up -- an open door to his youth had closed. Her wise words about his relationship with Miah had emboldened him. Miah was his future now. No matter what happened. It was time to stop looking back. He was shaken from his thoughts as the plane's engines spooled up and Miah grabbed his arm. "Oh take-off. I love this part so much. I'm such a big kid. But it's so exciting!" "Yeah. It is. I love it too." The 737 roared down the runway and rose into the sky, climbing through the dense cloud. Even when they had reached cruising altitude and levelled off, Miah's eyes remained fixated on the view from the window. Bright blue and nothing but a blanket of cloud obscuring the land far below. Seconds after the fasten seatbelts sign went out, some passengers rose from their seats and headed for the toilets, just as Gordon had predicted. An hour into the flight and the queue for the toilets had gone. The cabin was quiet and most people were glued to their phones and tablets. Miah glanced round. Now seemed the perfect time for one of her fantasies to become reality. "Hey," she whispered in Gordon's ear. "Fancy joining the Mile High Club?" He laughed off her suggestion, then realised she was deadly serious. "Wait...you want to?" "I've always wanted to!" He bit his lip. "It's a hell of a risk, Miah. If the cabin crew find out we could get fined. Some airlines ban you for life." "Seems a bit harsh. Two consenting adults wanting some private in-flight entertainment." Her hand squeezed his thigh and she unfastened her seatbelt. "Join me in the rear toilet...if you're brave enough! Knock twice." As she got up from her seat and started forward toward the rear of the plane, she noticed a man rise from a seat farther forward in the cabin and glance back at her. The guy was about fifty, brown hair, bearded and of a stocky build like Gordon. This was no stranger. For an instant, Miah thought that perhaps the man was, in fact, a minor celebrity. He looked away from her after a fraction of a second of eye contact, stepped into the aisle, and moved forward towards the toilet at the front of the plane. He reminded her of someone, but try as she might, she couldn't make the connection. Thinking no more about it, she carried on to the toilet. In his seat, Gordon scratched the back of his head and wondered what to do. The thought of actually joining the infamous club had got him half-erect already. He rubbed his growing crotch bulge and decided to go for it. Now was his chance. It wouldn't be long before the cabin crew started the in-flight food and drinks. In the plane's tiny rear cubicle, Miah had positioned herself against the wall and prayed that Gordon hadn't chickened out. Two knocks on the door made her stomach lurch in excitement. She opened the door. "Gordy! You're here!" She slipped her dress off her shoulders. "What's this? A nervous flyer?" Gordon grinned as he squeezed into the toilet cubicle and quickly closed the door. "Actually this flight is too boring," she teased. "Needs more turbulence." "Well now. I know how to make it better." He pushed her up against the wall, and whispered into her ear with hot, seductive breath. "This is your Organist Captain speaking." Before Miah could comprehend exactly what he said, Gordon was all over her with a love so fierce. His hands roamed her bare shoulders and neck as he smothered her lips, nipping against her earlobes and bare skin. He kissed the sensitive skin below her jaw, making her tilt her head back. He kissed on, licking and grazing it, knowing he had hit a sweet spot. Gordon brought her face down with his hands, kissed her as she moaned lightly into his mouth. This pleased him immensely as he moved his hands down till they rested against her breasts. Miah knew nothing but bliss when he applied his sweet pressures. She began to gasp and pant as he pinched the sensitive rosebuds under her thin cotton dress. She didn't care as she felt him slide her bra straps down her shoulders. He was desperate to ravish her and she wanted him more than anything else in the world. The low hum of the plane's engines seemed to add to his arousal. "You're so big. Mmmm. I can't wait until I feel you inside my mouth." She said as she unzipped his trousers and pulled his dick out of his underpants. Softly, Miah ran her fingers over the heated flesh of his erect manhood. He took a sharp intake of breath at the feeling of her hands on him, and groaned. Tenderly, she encircled his organ with her right hand and gave it a few quick strokes. Gordon groaned from deep within his throat and moaned her name. Her face inched closer and closer to his penis. She could feel the energy pulsing through the veins and realised she alone was responsible for its arousal. She took a certain amount of pride in that fact. Miah's tongue lashed out at the head of Gordon's cock, slowly licking the bulbous head. "Ah..." He groaned. In the cramped confines of the toilet cubicle, his hands found her silky brown hair, as Miah's tongue lolled around his shaft like she was sucking on an orange slice. Slowly, she took more of his manhood into her wet, sucking mouth. Gordon was enjoying himself to no end. The things this woman could do with her tongue! She licked every inch of his cock, running her tongue across every vein, igniting every nerve ending. His breathing had picked up, Miah noticed. She began to increase her ministrations. She created a stimulating suction with her mouth and began to bob her head back and forth using her tongue to stimulate the underside of his cock. "Fuck!" Gordon said in a strained tone. "Do you h-have...oh...do you have any idea what you're doing to me? Ah!" "Umm hmm," she replied. And just to prove her point, she began to suck him off harder. His orgasm was coming now, hard and fast. "I'm going to cum," he grunted. "Not yet, Gordy. Need you inside!" Gordon quickly positioned himself between her legs as he continued to relish his girlfriend's sweet moans and kisses. Pulling her wet knickers aside, slowly, he began to tease her clit, receiving surprised gasps. He watched as he rolled one of her small breasts while thrusting a finger in and out of her glistening cunt. She flinched, and cried out in joy when she felt him thrust in two fingers. "I think you're ready to join the Club," Gordon whispered. "I know I am. Shall we?" "Yes!" And he thrust his large cock into her, and entered into the depths of her feminine waters. He was inside her, thrusting away, grunting, yelling her name. Miah held onto him tight, her legs wrapped around his sides. "Oh Gordy, sweet Gordy..." Her body shuddered, riding wave after wave of heat and unexplainable emotions. Just as he felt her walls tightening and squeezing him, he felt himself release deep inside of her, shooting his cum deep into her tight and quivering pussy... "Oh fucking hell, yes!" Gordon yelled. A furious knocking on the door brought them crashing down to earth. "Oh shit." "Um, just a minute!" Miah yelled, her voice shaky. She pressed the button to flush the toilet and Gordon quickly withdrew. Outside, a small queue had formed. "Whoever's in there must be trying to flush themselves down the bog. They've been in there ages!" a woman muttered to the air steward. Gordon zipped up his trousers and unlocked the door. He took a deep breath. "Okay, brace yourself. Hope whoever knocked isn't too pissed off with us!" He slid the door open and came face to face with a growing line of passengers. "About bloody time!" the man in the Panama hat yelled. Some of us have prostate trouble you know!" He fell silent as Miah squeezed out of the toilet behind Gordon. "Er, guess it's time we returned to our seats," Gordon smiled through gritted teeth. There were a few shocked gasps, while others cheered and clapped. "Looks like you two have earned your wings, the steward said, with a wink. Advent At Saint Michael's: Jenna has a dilemma. Can the Bishop help her? "This year has absolutely flown by," Reverend Morris said as he read through the latest edition of the parish magazine. I can't believe it's almost the first Sunday of Advent!" "It's been quite a year," his wife replied, looking very much troubled. "Are you alright Jen?" Reverend Morris looked at her. "Something's bothering you, I can tell." Jenna let out a sigh. "Oh Simon. I'm just so disgusted with recent events. I can't believe what's happened. He knew at once what she was referring to. "Ah. You mean the Archbishop of Canterbury resigning. No-one was more disgusted than I was. To think, we had to go and dine with him at Bishop George's house last year! Bowing and fawning over him whilst he prattled on about Africa and equal opportunities. That lying, hypocrite of a man had the nerve to threaten me over some 300 year old plaque in my church with the most tenuous link to slavery. And all the time he was covering up for some vile abuser!" He slammed his fist down on the coffee table and it was the first time Jenna had seen her normally mild-mannered husband look so enraged. "Makes me feel sick!" He added. "Good riddance. I hope whoever replaces him will be an actual Christian this time." Not as sick as I feel, Jenna thought to herself. Had I known what the Archbishop was truly like, I would never have given him a blowjob at that dinner party! But at the time it was necessary to stop him going public over the offending plaque in Saint Michael's church. Reverend Morris composed himself and sighed. "In times like this, I always find my faith tested. These people at the top have turned away from God. I just hope our dear little church doesn't suffer." Jenna embraced him. "That won't happen, Simon. I'll make sure of that!" "I'm feeling better already. We're approaching such a busy and important time in the church calendar. And your birthday too!" The shocking scandal engulfing the C of E had at least meant that Bishop George had long forgotten Reverend Morris' little dalliance with Sandra Conway at the vicarage garden party back in August. He took a deep breath and wondered if he was ever going to finish his sermon in time for the Sunday service. Meanwhile, over at 64 Stovepipe Avenue, Gordon the organist had no such worries. He whimpered and squirmed. It was getting hard to form thoughts between the tickling, let alone words, and the corners of his vision were fuzzing with pink mist that blended in with the view of Miah's of jiggling, bouncing breasts smothering him. "Has my sexy organist been a naughty boy?" She teased, tickling his balls. "You always bring out my naughty side...ah! Oh! Not down there! "Hee hee...Now I'm going to..." Suddenly, Gordon's smartphone rang, disturbing their afternoon pleasure. "Oh ignore it," he mumbled, in between kissing his girlfriend. The annoying ringtone continued, before the phone finally went silent. "What were you going to do?" "Open your diapason," Miah giggled, wrapping her hand round his cock. "That's the right term, yes?" "Oh yes," he replied, sucking on her nipples. "You've already made me Swell to Great!" Gordon always loved it when pipe organ-themed words were used during sex. The phone rang again. "Damn and blast it," Gordon exclaimed, reaching over to the bedside table. "Can't have five minute's peace. I should've switched it off." "Better answer it, it must be important," Miah said, licking the tip of his cock. "Hello? Oh hello Reverend." "Hope I haven't caught you at a bad moment, Gordon?" The vicar said. "Are you alright? Your voice sounds a little shaky." "Er, no I'm fine. Just er, doing a bit of D I Y. What can I do for you?" "Well about this Sunday's service. I would've emailed you but my Gmail has been playing up. Can't seem to log in at all. I hope it'll resolve itself soon. Anyways, could you play Happy Birthday on the organ after the service? It's for Gladys Wilcox. She's eighty-eight. I'll make an announcement during the reading of the notices." "Oh..." A groan of pleasure escaped Gordon's lips. "Umm, yes, of course I can!" "Are you sure you're okay? You sound tired." Reverend Morris asked. "I'm fine, Vicar. I'm...trying to...er, er, unblock the toilet. Eighty-eight? Good old Gladys, that's an achievement." Miah struggled to hold back a laugh and continued pleasuring the organist. "Right, thanks so much. I won't detain you further. Hope you get your toilet sorted. See you on Sunday!" The call ended and Gordon switched off the phone. "Unblocking the toilet?" Miah laughed, jacking his cock. "You should've said you were getting your pipes cleaned!" "It's hard to think clearly when a sexy lass has her lips round your dick!" Reverend Morris put down the phone. "Hmm, Gordon has organ practice in ten minutes. He's picked a fine time to unblock his toilet. Unless he's giving the practice a miss this week." "A blocked toilet is serious business though," Jenna replied. "Remember the trouble we had with our downstairs one after the vicarage garden party? Good thing Norman was able to fix it. Took him a while." "I still haven't a clue what it was that got flushed down there. Norman said it was a toy, but Christopher insisted it wasn't one of his, and none of the other kids at the gathering used the downstairs loo...not that it matters. Norman seemed rather embarrassed as I recall." "Maybe it wasn't a toy at all but a massive turd," Jenna added. "I bet poor Norman just said it was a toy because he didn't want to gross us out or embarrass anyone. By the way, did you notice how distracted he's been recently? I think he's got his eye on that newcomer to our church...what did you say her name was?" Reverend Morris took a sip of his coffee. "Oh. Eileen Hattersley. Yes, she's been attending our church for about a month now. She's a widow, and was brought up Catholic...used to attend Saint Mary's when Father Aiden was there. She was very fond of him, but since he jumped ship and joined the Living Earth Free Church, she seemed to undergo a crisis of faith. I think L E F C is a bit too modern for her, and the new priest at Saint Mary's isn't as approachable, so I've heard." "Hmm, I wonder what Gladys will think of Norman eyeing up a younger woman? They've had a sort of master-slave relationship for over a year now!" "Not sure! I still can't get that image of him in that pinny and being whipped out of my mind," the vicar said, shaking his head. "Whatever floats your boat. He's an excellent churchwarden. Anyways, I'd better hurry. I've got to be at the Youth Opportunities meeting at the town hall." Alone in the house, Jenna couldn't help but feel regret. Her musings were interrupted by a knock on the door. "Really hope this isn't another one of those doorstep sellers." She opened the door and was greeted by none other than Bishop George. "Hello Jenna! Is Simon in?" "Oh George! Afraid you've just missed him -- he's gone to some meeting at the town hall." "Ah, what a shame," the older man replied, trying to look disappointed, but secretly he was delighted. "Come in please," Jenna said, grabbing his arm. "Actually I could do with someone to talk to right now. Oh George. I did something last year that I truly regret now and I'm not sure how to deal with it." "Why certainly my dear," Bishop George smiled, following the stunning vicar's wife inside. "You know I am always more than happy to help you in any way I can! It's been a while since we last spoke -- was the vicarage party back in summer wasn't it?" "Yes it was. Too long." "How is your cousin doing? And Gordon? I heard that they drank rather too much home-made punch at that party!" "Umm yes. I think we all did! Poor Gordon, he had the hangover from hell the next day. He actually threw up at choir practice...all over the flower arrangement the Mother's Union ladies had brought...good thing this was before the choir arrived." The bishop smiled as he sat down on the settee. He decided not to mention the fact he'd noticed Jenna, Miah and Gordon asleep and naked in the master bedroom. Perhaps they had all been too drunk to remember what had happened? "Would you like a cuppa? Or something stronger?" Jenna asked. "Brandy would be nice," he said with a wink. "Sure!" A few moments later, he beckoned Jenna to sit next to him. "Now my dear, what's bothering you? It's not like you to seem so tense. Indeed, her attitude had him greatly concerned. He hoped whatever it was wasn't related to their passionate encounters in the past. "Well, it's all this business with the disgraced Archbishop of Canterbury," Jenna began. "Simon and I were both horrified when we heard the news." Bishop George pulled a face as he sipped his brandy. "I never liked him from the start. Ruined the C of E, he has. Of course, he's just one of several bad apples. When he was appointed to that role I said to others, this bloke will be nothing but trouble. And guess what I was proved right. And I was ignored and ostracized for my opinions. I can always smell a wrong 'un Jen. That ridiculous business with the 17th century horse. Can't believe I was forced to go along with that." "That's the thing, George. I had to persuade the Archbishop to drop his plans to shame Simon's church and remove a plaque that would've caused a lot of damage to a fragile wall. And I was successful in...persuading him. But..." Bishop George raised an eyebrow as he gazed at her flawless cleavage and legs. He remembered the dinner party last year and how she'd been sat next to the archbishop. How sweaty and red-faced he looked. "How exactly did you persuade him Jenna? Though I do have an idea..." "Oh George. When I was alone in the room with him, I sucked his cock. At the time it was such fun, seducing a powerful man...and it was for a very good reason of course. He backed down. But that was before I knew what a horrible person he was, covering up for an abuser. Now I feel ashamed and soiled." "My dear Jenna, you have nothing to feel ashamed about. He had a lot of us fooled. Friends in high places who defended him. And you did what you did in order to protect your husband's livelihood. Think no more about it. We must look to the future now and hope that the C of E elects someone who won't turn a blind eye to safeguarding concerns and predators that try to hide behind a mask of righteousness." She nodded. "You're right, George. "Oh I feel so much better now that I've unburdened myself!" She threw her arms around him and held him tight. Her firm tits pressed into his chest, and the bishop felt his cock twitch. They stared at each other, eyes flicking back and forth. Jenna's hand slid slowly down his chest, across his belly, over the belt buckle of his black trousers. She pressed his groin gently. "Something else I can help you with?" He whispered, as she began teasing his pink shirt that was neatly tucked into his trousers. "I need my faith in bishops restored." "Well Jenna, you know what to do there," he replied, kissing her as her eager fingers unzipped his trousers and freed his growing erection from his underwear. She was surprised to see that he was wearing plain white boxer shorts this time. "No pretty knickers today, George?" She said, pulling his trousers and underpants down. "Just fancied a change," he replied. "I'm saving the red lace ones you gave me for Christmas." Moving closer, he shoved his sweaty dick close to her face. She naturally opened up to taste him and he tasted as divine as last time. Sweet and manly. Jenna's hands quickly wrapped around his hips, pulling him closer to her face, shoving his cock deeper into her mouth, until his wiry grey pubes brushed her nose. "That feels bloody amazing." Bishop George sighed. "Swallow it all the way. I know you can do it, Jen." He urged her on as his dick quickly hardened further. The bishop's manhood was thick and a good seven inches when it was hard. Jenna closed her eyes to enjoy the musky smell of his crotch and the wet sounds of her lips sucking him. "Let's go upstairs," she whispered and he didn't hesitate to follow her into the vicarage's master bedroom. Much activity had taken place in here, he mused. He sat on the edge of the bed as Jenna took her dress off and then unhooked her bra, shrugging it off her shoulders, slipped her thumbs into the waistband of her knickers, and lowered them. Bishop George pulled her to him, his tongue flicking over delicate pink nipples, his fingers brushing her back and arse. She ran her fingers through his silver hair, before kneeling before him. Jenna opened her mouth wide and greedily started to suck his cock. She looked up to him, his eyes were closed and head tilted back moaning softly, "Oh, I'm blessed. Keep on doing it." Hearing those words, Jenna started sucking wildly on him. His breathing became really heavy as well as his moaning when suddenly the bishop lifted her head off his cock. The next thing Jenna knew, she was on her back with him between her legs lifting them high in the air. "Fuck me, Right Reverend. Give it to me." She found herself saying breathlessly. And he did just that as he rammed half his dick deep in her pussy so violently that she sucked in air to keep from crying out. Then he rammed the rest of it into her, stopping only when his low hanging balls slapped against her. Age hadn't dimmed his stamina one bit and he could match Gordon, her husband and the other church men she'd slept with. "You like having a bishop's cock in your pussy, Jen?" He suddenly asked with a huge smile on his face. "Has this Bishop successfully restored your faith?" "Yes... oh God yes!" "Well you've certainly strengthened mine and I thank you for this divine joy!" The knowledge that she was giving this hot older man so much pleasure filled Jenna with pride. Bishop George was really enjoying himself at this point as he was pounding her. He buried his cock deep into her holy tunnel and held it there as he pumped a full load of thick cum into the redhead's ever-welcoming womanhood. Burst after burst of his seed coated Jenna's insides and she climaxed, gasping for breath, but beyond satisfied! They lay happily together cuddling each other afterwards. Both had been relieved of their stress and worries. "You really are a true Christian Jenna," Bishop George murmured as he caressed her back. "Always thinking of others." Based on the works by Blacksheep, for Literotica  

In this episode I dive into altseason, the number of tokens in the market, liquidity, QE, the fed and more.-----------THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

Saint Michael's hosts a town celebration.A Series in 17 parts, By Blacksheep. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories. Young Men of the ChoirChoir practice at St. Michael's church was always a lively affair. Yet, for the past year or so, it lacked a full spectrum of harmony, because of the ailing older men who provided base and baritone fullness to many of the arrangements.Recently, it had become a lot harder on Gordon's ears due to a couple of new members. James and Jordan were two eager eighteen-years old, and the twin sons of Debbie the Sunday school teacher. They both hit puberty rather late, having had vocal changes occur at about their 16th birthday. Last month Gordon overheard the two brothers shout cheers for their favorite Premier League team, while getting in their car, after Sunday morning service.The husky, revelry, inspired Gordon to take on the challenge of refining the twins into a huge asset for the church choir. That enthusiasm diminished after their first choir practice."I've got my work cut out, getting that lot into shape ready to sing at the community coronation celebration, next month!" Gordon told Jenna at their weekly 'organ practice.' "They're bloody awful. I know they're Debbie's boys and she's chuffed they're finally getting involved in church life, but I fear they're tone deaf!""Oh dear, that's no good,” Jenna said as she finished playing Crown Him with Many Crowns and then readied herself to play a much more interesting organ.Jenna could feel Gordon rubbing his hardening cock against her arse. It was then that she had an idea."I think I should give those two boys some extra inspiration," she smiled. "Maybe they're not completely tone deaf. With a bit more instruction, their voices might be passable.""Hmm, maybe." Gordon replied, his voice shaking with arousal. "They're coming in tomorrow afternoon for extra instruction and vocal training. I've taught some pretty poor choirboys and choirgirls over the years. Some did vastly improve and go on to have terrific careers in music."Jenna switched off the organ and slid round on the stool. "Do you want me, Gordy?" She asked, darting her tongue between his lips. "Tell me how much, if you do,”"Desperately!" He growled. "My God, you're so fucking hot! Pardon my language, I forgot we're in the church.""You say the loveliest things."Gordon was hornier than usual tonight. He'd recovered from a bad cold and was eager to make up for lost time. Adjusting the open-fronted black robe he always wore in church, he tried furiously to unbuckle his belt and unzip his trousers with one hand while feeling his way to unfasten Jenna's blouse and bra with the other."Oh, organ daddy is eager tonight!" She cooed. "Swell to Great!" she added, referring to one of the organ stops, which in recent months had become a double entendre."I've already swelled," Gordon sighed, as he feasted on her beautiful tits. "Oh Jenna, Daddy needs you so much.""Let me give you a hand, then." She pulled out his thick cock and began stroking it.His shaking hands were soon pulling her soaking wet panties to one side and he wasted no time in sinking his entire cock straight into her hot, wet cunt. When he was completely inside her, he started to slowly pump it in and out, making the strokes longer and faster, banging her back and arse against the organ's manuals, until she was literally screaming with pleasure. Her cries echoed through the empty church."Oh my darling Jenna! Yes!" Gordon groaned. "You're such a good girl! I love fucking your nice, ripe, young cunt! You're going to make me cum hard! I'm going to fill your young body with so much cum! Ah!"Gordon's thick, hot load spurted fast, deep and hard into her."Ahh, that was lovely," she whispered in his ear. "You always pull out all the stops!" Jenna gasped as they recovered from their intense orgasms. Once again, the organist had left her thoroughly entertained. She rested her head on his shoulder and he gently slipped his arms around her."Do you remember the first time we, did it?" Gordon replied, planting soft kisses on her forehead. "Such a long time ago, when you seduced me right here on this organ stool and I hopelessly surrendered to your charms?""Hee hee. How could I forget that? You were powerless to resist. And so shy at first,”"Me? Shy?" Gordon spluttered. "I think not, I was just stunned.""You blushed when you came back from the gents and saw me sat here on the stool!""Organists don't blush! We just, swell." Gordon replied, though his cheeks were already turning several shades of red."Of course," Jenna replied, running her fingers through his thick, silver hair.“And let me fill in for you, tomorrow. I want those fellas to get a vision for how they can add to the choir.”The next day, Jenna was in church alone, practicing a few pieces of music on the organ. Sensing the presence of someone, she stopped and peered over the top of the partition."Oh good. They're here.""Good afternoon you two!" She announced, as James and Jordan headed down the aisle. The two blonde-haired lads looked surprised to see the vicar's wife."Oh, Mrs. Morris," Jordan exclaimed. "Is Gordon here? He asked us to meet him here for some extra choir practice.""Afraid Gordon's needing me to fill in. Hope you're not too disappointed."They both looked at each other. "As if! Gordon's a bit,”"Strict?" Jenna replied. "Yes he is, but he's been organist and choirmaster for a long time and he takes his job very seriously. This coronation concert is really important for the church. The Mayor will be attending. So it's important that we get those voices of yours up to scratch. I think a little bit of extra inspiration is needed."“Some parishioners heard the two of you chanting support for your favorite Premier League football team, a few weeks ago. Is that true?”“Manchester, all the way!” James beamed.“Ah, great team!” Jenna affirmed. “So, do me a favor, please. Can you two repeat that chant you shouted in the car park?”The guys repeated their team Busby Boys chant;Hello, helloWe are the Busby BoysHello, helloWe are the Busby BoysAnd if you are a City fan surrender or you'll dieWe all follow UnitedJenna looked puzzled. “Fellas, I'm having a hard time believing that's what they parishioners were treated to in the car park? Gordon said he heard a very masculine machismo boistering. He heard passion, bravery, smack-talking cockiness. Let's try again, but I'm going to join you, okay? And if either of you hear my voice overpowering your powerful masculine cheers, it is to your shame.”Jordan began the Busby Boys chant again, and the twin baritones filled the high ceilings of the great sanctuary with the richest a-capella Jenna had ever heard since joining the church a year ago.James and Jordan were breathing heavily, and feeling great affirmation of what they have the vocal power to do, in that place of worship.“Bravo!” Jenna cheered, clapping her hands. This is the raw masculinity that our church needs in worship. Gordon can teach you technique and tone, but Manchester United is where you found your masculine identity. Can you bring that with you to practices and performances?”“Uh, sure;” Jordan said. James nodded.Jenna slid herself off the organ stool in such a way as to ensure a flash of her panties. She had put on one of her favorite short black dresses, which was hardly suitable attire for church. She'd borrowed Gordon's black robe. It was unzipped in front, but too big for her and kept slipping off her shoulders."This thing's not my size at all," she muttered. "Best left for Gordon." She removed it, and sensed the two lads eyeing her up as she draped it over a pew. She was wearing a sleeveless black dress that clung in all the right places.Jordan gave a cough. "Um, Mrs. Morris,”"Jenna, please. No need to be so formal. You're not at school now, are you? In fact I shouldn't be calling you choirboys at all, seeing as you've just turned eighteen. I think choirmen would be more suitable, yes?""Yeah!" They both gave nervous grins.“Well I'm a woman,” Jenna explained. “I can tell you, the good women of the church really want the men to be men. Good men, virtuous, but men. Please promise me you'll continue to be the men God created you to be? And you're a perfectly matched pair of baritones. You have no idea how incredible your resonance can be, if you refine your craft.”"Okay, we'll just have an hour going over the pieces that Gordon mentioned. Nothing too intense. How does that sound?""Great, yeah." James said with new enthusiasm."James, is it true that you want to be an organist some day?""That's right. I start uni in September."“Let's get the sheet music Gordon assigned for this week,” Jenna turned away and fiddled with some music books on the shelf at the side of the organ, bending at the waist and swaying a bit more than she needed to."She is well fit!" Jordan whispered to his brother."Wish she'd take over from Gordon permanently! Yeah. I'd do her." James boasted.Jenna smirked to herself, then stood back up and faced James; "My my, aren't you eager?"James froze. Shit, she overheard! "To sing? Oh sure, we wanna get this right." He awkwardly scratched the side of his head.She walked a couple steps over to him, and carelessly dropped one of the music books on the floor. She squatted down in front of him. Gazing up, she could see the outline of a massive cock hardening behind the skinny jeans he was wearing."Oh, not just to sing!" Jenna said, and slowly slid her hands up his thigh. James just stood there, stunned, not knowing what to do or say. Her fingers were soon tracing the outline of his big, thick, long cock through his jeans."Oh my, James!" Jenna said, "You are a big fella."Jordan gawped as the vicar's wife continued caressing his brother's thigh."So; who wants to go first?" Jenna looked to James, then over to Jordan."Umm," they both mumbled."James," Jenna said, massaging his cock through his jeans, "I think someone wants to come out and say hi, don't you?""Uh, yes!" He gasped, blushing.Jenna unfastened his jeans, and pulled them and his boxers down to his knees. She was pleasantly surprised. Definitely a cock worthy of an organist, or future organist! “You truly are an organist!”She aimed his aching erection straight for her open mouth, and didn't stop until she had thrust his whole shaft straight down her warm, wet throat."Whoa, holy shit!" James groaned as Jenna worked her amazing talented, tongue, swirling round and round his youthful cock. A few seconds of her incredible cock-skills was all he could take and he was soon pumping a whole load of hot cum straight down her lovely throat."Fuckin' 'ell!"Jenna greedily swallowed every drop, her unblinking eyes gazing up at him the whole time. She even kept on gently sucking long after she'd already sucked him completely dry."Delicious! What a good man you are, James. I'd say you hit all the right notes there and are perfectly tuned-up! Now how about your brother, pipe?"Jordan didn't hesitate, and soon had his jeans unzipped. Jenna wrapped her fingers around his aching cock. Like his brother, he was generously endowed, and quick to rise to the occasion, however his lack of experience would mean a swift conclusion. Nothing wrong with that, of course. They were young and eager. In time, they could be molded into excellent lovers. Jenna thought about the time she seduced the nervous, virgin curate in the church hall's storeroom. Thanks to her, Josh was now full of confidence and an expert in the bedroom, and he had recently got engaged.Her hand was pumping Jordan's nice, young cock good and hard."Oh God, fuck yes!"She leaned in and licked the head of his cock a few times, before running her tongue up and down the length of it. Her lips kissed and sucked the tip of his cock as her tongue teased it a few times. It twitched uncontrollably. Jenna slid it into her mouth while looking intently into his eyes. Jordan pressed his hips forward and was surprised to see her eagerly take the entire length of his member into her mouth. She grabbed his ass cheeks and pulled him tight. She sucked his shaft hard, making him yell with pleasure. She savored the taste of pre-cum."Oh Jenna! I'm gonna cum!"The vicar's wife began to suck him harder, her tongue sliding over and around his cock as her head as was pushed and pulled back and forth. She sucked Jordan's cock for all it was worth, caressing his balls at the same time.Oh dear God, then it came, what she was waiting for. Jordan's cock erupted in a white creamy fountain; he couldn't stop. He was groaning in ecstasy. Jenna swallowed every drop, gulping it down."Umm, tastes so good! Another yummy load. You really needed to unload, didn't you?Jordan's eyes were now closed and he was breathing heavily.Well, that gets you fully tuned-up, too. I guess we're about done here," Jenna said, standing up and planting a kiss on both their cheeks. "But, we'd better do a bit of singing as well. "I'll give you a few minutes to, compose yourselves, then meet me at the piano. Then we'll sing Onward Christian Soldiers! If you boys can sing as expertly as you shoot your cum, the coronation service will be a massive success!"Polishing the Mayor's Ceremonial MaceIt was Thursday morning and the coronation of King Charles III was by now, tantalizingly close. Over at St Michael's vicarage however, all was not well."What do you mean we can't have a street party outside the church this Sunday?" Reverend Morris exclaimed. "There was no problem last year when we had the Jubilee celebrations."The council official at the end of the line muttered something about it being the Mayor's rule, and hung up."Bloody councils," the vicar moaned. "Full of useless overpaid pen-pushers. The Mayor's coming to visit our church later today too. I've a good mind to raise the issue with him face to face."Jenna raised an eyebrow. "I thought being a mayor was just a ceremonial role. How come he's not letting the church hold a street party?""Some red tape about obstructing the King's Highway or something.""But we're holding a party to honor the new King! Surely rules can be waived just this once?""We could always pretend to be eco protesters," Reverend Morris remarked.Jenna uncrossed her legs and began thinking. "That Mayor needs some persuading. "I can't have Simon's plans ruined by pesky red tape,”Mayor Harrison Buckingham rolled his eyes as he turned into the small car park of St Michael's church hall."Right, time for another tedious hour shaking hands with old ladies and giving fake smiles," the corpulent man muttered as he parked the Jaguar."Keys," his wife replied."What, you're not coming in with me?""Not a chance. You can do this all by yourself, darling. I'm off to the Trafford Centre for a spot of retail therapy.""But, but, Pauline, you're the Mayoress! And how am I going to get home?""And you're the Mayor dear. A small church like this only needs one of us. Our house is five minutes from this church. You could either phone a taxi or do something really daring, such as walk home. Keys."He grumbled to himself but did as she asked."Ah, he's here," Reverend Morris said. Jenna observed the approaching man carefully. Aged about sixty, overweight, and with greying hair that was dominated by a large and very obvious toupee. His gold mayoral chains glinted in the late spring sunshine."Oh, he's a chonky lad." Jenna chuckled."From what I've heard, he's dishonest and drinks a lot." Reverend Morris whispered. "His smile is as fake as that hairpiece he's wearing. Norman Winstanley knows him from the Men's Fellowship meetings, and said he's made a fool of himself several times.""Perfect qualities for someone working on the council then," Jenna smirked."By the way, I heard Norman has moved in with Gladys Wilcox and become her lodger.""There's something kinky going on between those two, I'm certain of it." Jenna said."What? As if. She's in her eighties!" The vicar gasped."Just because there's snow on the roof, doesn't mean the fire's gone out!" Jenna replied. "Although Gladys once confessed to me that she had a bit of a fancy for Gordon. I guess Norman's her second choice as he was willing to do whatever she asked of him."Reverend Morris' eyes widened. "I'm sure he only helps her with D I Y projects and her shopping.""Well I still think there's more to it. Mark my words. I don't think Gladys is the prim old widow you think she is!"Reverend Morris fiddled with his surplice. "Ah, good afternoon Mayor!""Hello there, Vicar!" He shook hands. "Oh and who is this lovely lady? Your daughter I presume?""No, my wife, Jenna.""Ah, my bad. Dearie me, either you're his second wife or you've got a bloody good plastic surgeon! Ha ha ha!"Reverend Morris cringed. "Jenna is my second wife. Lucy and I divorced a year ago."Oh I see. Well don't blame you there, Reverend. Wish I could do the same but She Who Must Be Obeyed won't let me. Ha ha ha!""Where is the Mayoress?" Jenna interrupted."Afraid she's, tested positive for Covid," the Mayor lied, hoping that they hadn't noticed his wife driving away."Oh what a shame," Jenna replied. "So you're all alone? Never mind, I will be glad to show you round our beautiful church.""Can't stand the bloke," Reverend Morris whispered to his wife as they entered the church. "There's tactless and then there's downright offensive. The man's a complete buffoon.""Leave him to me," Jenna said. "I don't mind showing him round.""I'm not leaving you alone with that creep!" Reverend Morris exclaimed."Oh Simon, I can easily handle a chubby chap in gold chains. He wouldn't dare do anything in a church, surely?" She was desperate to get the Mayor alone."In this day and age, can't let your guard down,” He was interrupted by Norman."Sorry to interrupt, Vicar. The builders have arrived to repair the church hall roof. But there's another problem.""Can't this wait, Norman? We're just showing the Mayor round.""Afraid not." He lowered his voice and whispered. "They've discovered asbestos.""What? Oh no! That'll cost a fortune to remove. And I've spent weeks promoting that church roof fundraiser. I'm not running any more quarter marathons!""Yeah. Not good for the church finances, but the hall can't be used until it's all been removed by a specialist company. It can't be done until after the Coronation weekend. I've been speaking to the Treasurer and he wants you to give the green light to get someone in to get it sorted. Could you just pop round and sign some paperwork?""Sure, no problem." He turned to Jenna. Before he could say anything, she stopped him."I'll take care of you-know-who," she smiled, and gave both of them a wink.""Looks like it's just you and me, Mr. Mayor," Jenna said, taking hold of the Mayor's arm. "Do excuse my husband, but I'm afraid he's just found out there's asbestos in the church roof, so that means we can't hold our Coronation party in there." Jenna gave a loud and deliberate sigh as the two walked into the empty church vestry. "And what with the ban on having a street party, I don't know what we're going to do. Maybe you could pull a few strings and allow us to block the road, just this once?"The obese official adjusted his shirt collar. "Mrs. Morris, I appreciate how upsetting that must be for your church, but,”"I'd be ever so grateful, and I'd make it worth your while in ways you could never imagine,”Now he was intrigued. "Oh? Bribery is it? Well I'm anyone's for a bottle of single malt. Or a good box of cigars,”"Oh I'm sure I could run to that, Mr. Mayor. In fact I could give you even more than that if you'd just let me show you.""Oh, you've whetted my appetite already. What could be better than whiskey and cigars?" He was no stranger to taking backhanders."Something like this?" Jenna said, reaching down and squeezing his thigh.The Mayor jolted in surprise. He grinned and gave her a flash of yellow teeth."Are all vicar's wives as welcoming as you?""I truly couldn't say. But I do have a thing for men in suits who wear ceremonial chains," Jenna continued, still massaging his thigh. He was smiling and winking at her and she noticed a bulge growing in the front of his light grey trousers. Her eager eyes kept involuntarily fixing on it."I can show you my ceremonial mace if you'd like," the Mayor whispered, his plump face red with lust. Thank God Pauline chose to go shopping! He thought."Umm, I would love to get my hands on that," Jenna said. "Let's go over to the organ. It's got a nice big stool for you to sit on."He just nodded excitedly. Upon arriving at the organ, the Mayor and put his hands on Jenna's arse and lifted her up. She wrapped her arms around his sweaty neck and wrapped her legs (as best she could) around his fat waist. He pressed his mouth against hers and plunged his tongue in. His breath was scented with whiskey and cigar smoke, and as his actions proved, it had been a long time since he last got laid. Not so much a kiss as being slobbered by a dog, she thought. Jenna broke the kiss and beckoned him to sit on the stool."Ah, want to see my ceremonial mace, you hungry girl?""Definitely, Mr. Mayor!" Jenna said, wiping a gallon of saliva off her face.He unzipped his trousers, revealing white briefs similar to the ones Gordon wore, however that was where the similarity ended. While Gordon's were nice and clean and fresh, the Mayor's underpants bore several piss stains and were definitely overdue for a change, as a ripe smell wafted forth.Dear God, Jenna thought. Who would believe it. The Mayor of our town having such dirty undies! She was a bit disgusted, but still curious to see more.The Mayor pulled out his cock, and before Jenna knew it, she was face to face with his "ceremonial mace." It was small, but fully erect. He was smiling down at her with his discolored teeth."There, what do you think, eh?""Oh it's a lovely one," Jenna replied. My God, compared with my husband or Gordon, he's tiny! Still, good things come in small packages, as they say."Don't be shy dear," the Mayor added, desperate for more.His dick was sweaty and smelly. Wrinkling her nose, Jenna slipped her hand round it and began jacking it, wondering why it smelled so bad."Ah, yes. That's the way, sweetheart. I might have to start attending this church, ah! Open your sweet little mouth, my darling."Jenna slid the foreskin back and noticed a lot of smegma. "Mr. Mayor, someone's a bit of a dirty boy.""That's alright, dear. You can clean it off for me."She turned away but he gripped her head firmly and pulled it back towards his cock. Unable to resist, Jenna's mouth suddenly opened and he slid closer, holding her head steady until he had thrust his whole shaft inside.It didn't take Jenna long to get used to the smell, and as she worked her magic on his modestly-sized cock, she found she quite liked the taste of mayoral cheese, and licked it all up. He moaned in ecstasy.A minute later and the dirty, corrupt fat bastard shot his thick, tangy load of spunk down Jenna's throat."Ah. Praise be to the Lord," the Mayor groaned, when she finally withdrew."There, the mace has been polished," Jenna smiled, zipping him up. "And now, Mr. Mayor, about the street party. I would really appreciate if you could ensure it's able to go ahead. Also, if you could donate a few thousand pounds to aid in the asbestos removal at the church hall,”The Mayor stood up. "A few thousand quid? Now steady on lass, I'm usually good for a bob or two, but there's a cost of living crisis,”"Umm, I understand times are hard, but you see, refusal isn't really an option. This church has concealed security cameras, so it would be a dreadful shame if footage of your ceremonial mace and dirty underpants were to somehow end up on the Internet,”Forgive me Lord for telling a lie whilst in church, she said to herself.The overfed official looked mortified. His lip quivered. Utterly defeated, he shrunk back down on the stool, as timid as a lamb. "Umm, whatever you require, I, I'll make sure you get it."Jenna smiled and kissed his cheek. "Thank you so much Mr. Mayor. You're a true ass, asset to this town. And I really did enjoy polishing your ceremonial mace."At that moment, the church door opened and Reverend Morris came marching down the aisle."Sorry for taking so long," he prattled. "What a nightmare, now that this asbestos has been discovered."Jenna calmly appeared from behind the organ."Hello my love. I've been keeping the Mayor busy by teaching him to play a few notes on the organ. He found it really interesting!"The man in question suddenly appeared. "Asbestos you say, Vicar? Don't worry about that. I'll see that it gets sorted out pronto. We had the same problem in the town hall. Nasty stuff is asbestos. As a Christian, it's my duty to ensure that the good folk of this lovely church have a safe building. So don't worry about the cost, I'll glad pay for any repairs and removal."Reverend Morris looked totally stunned. "Oh, my good heavens, thank you so much, sir!""Oh and do please go ahead and hold your street party, in the street! I'll ensure the numpties at the council don't cause any bother. Well, I really must get going, so much to do, so little time. I'll stop by on Sunday and join the celebrations! Nice to meet you both! Thanks for, showing me round Mrs. .er, Jenna! Good day!" He shook both their hands and hurried out."What an extraordinary kind gesture!" The vicar smiled. "All our problems are solved, just like that. I was wrong about the Mayor. It seems he is a genuine man after all.""Just goes to show, you can't judge someone on hearsay," Jenna replied. "Oh look, his wig fell off!" She picked up the toupee off the floor. "Never mind, he looks better without it, don't you think?"As a fellow balding man, I agree!" Reverend Morris said, slipping his arm round his wife and strolling down the aisle. "However, we must discreetly return it to him."The Coronation celebrations at St. Michael's church were a massive success, and everyone had a fantastic day as the entire town came together. The notoriously unreliable British weather behaved itself for once, and provided warm, sunny conditions. The concert choir sounded fantastic. The addition of two rich baritones brought balance and fullness to the sound. The final arrangement was ‘God Save The King'. When the song ended, Gordon flowed into an improv rhythm. He nodded to the twins and they belched out a boisterous chant of God Save the King. Jenna stood up at her piano and raised her fist while passionately joining the twin's chant. The entire assembly soon joined and for about 30 seconds, it felt loke the rafters were shaking. Then a boisterous applause followed. The vicar then dismissed the concert ."I do love the pomp and splendor," Gordon said as he wolfed down a plateful of sausage rolls."Not to mention the food," Jenna said, pinching his arse when no-one was looking."Have to keep my strength up with you around, the organist replied. And the twins were amazing! I've never seen teenagers improve so rapidly. How did you inspire the fellas?”Jenna beamed; “A lady never tells,” she winked. “I absolutely loved that chant at the end of the program, Gordon. Thanks for adding it. The young people were the loudest.”Are we, you know, having organ practice this Thursday?""Of course we are," she replied, with a wink. Noticing the Mayor arriving, she gave a little smile."I'm glad he stopped wearing that wig!” Jenna whispered to Gordon. She also wondered if he washed his undies?England now has her king, the community has a thriving church, and Jenna continued to play her charming role as the first lady of Saint Michael's.To be continued.By Blacksheep for Literotica.

n this episode I talk to Oliver Slapal co founder of Data Lake. We do a deep dive into Data Lake, what it is, their new token launchpad Lakedotfun, the LAKE token and how it works as well as a ton more.-----------THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

Do you ever feel like there's too much happening in dentistry to keep your head on straight? Kiera talks about 4 ways you can stay up to date without being overwhelmed: Listen to podcasts Attend conferences Join a consulting group Find what you're passionate about Episode resources: Subscribe to The Dental A-Team podcast Schedule a Practice Assessment Leave us a review Transcript: Kiera Dent (00:00.554) Hello, Dental A Team listeners. This is Kiera and welcome to the podcast. I hope today is just a magical day for you. I hope that you're having just a great time and I hope that you just remember that we're in the greatest space possible. We get to be in dentistry. We get to help people. We get to literally help people have greater smiles and greater happiness in life. And I think that that is one of the most incredible things that we get to be a part of. So thank you for being a part of our family. Thank you for being on the podcast with us.   Thank you for listening in, get ready. We're gonna actually start to have a lot of you join us on the podcast. I have a new idea that's ready to trickle out and I hope you are excited for it. I wanna get to know more of you. I want to hear from more of you. So get ready, it's coming for you. Today is going to be kind of a funny topic. I thought it was funny. I have our team, they're super kind, our marketing team, shout out to them. They actually go and they read Facebook groups and they read.   different areas, they read a lot of dental information and they're constantly watching things and they listen for what you guys are emailing in on, which you could always email me a podcast topic. Hello@TheDentalATeam.com. I love to hear from you. love pen pals. and so our team, they go out and they scope and I read this one and I said, I don't want to podcast on that. and then I read through, they have a nice list for me of about seven pages of topics for me, which is super nice. And this topic was on there like,   It was here. And then I looked on the list and it was here again. And I thought, okay, fine. I will talk about a topic. And I hope that this is helpful for you. And the question is like how to stay updated on all the new dental technology and how to keep my team educated and up to date with the latest techniques and technology. And to me, this feels like a no brainer, but I realized this is obviously a question that you guys have. So let's answer it. All right. So welcome to the Dental A Team Podcast. I'm going to teach you how to do this, how we do it, how we help other offices do it.   And again, something that I thought was so just everyday knowledge isn't. So here we go. That's why we had the podcast. That's why we share. And if you love our podcast, please do me a solid favor, go like, review and share with somebody today. Okay, so ways that we were able to do this. Number one, you're doing a great job. You're listening to a podcast. So high five there. I try really hard to bring people to the industry that I've met, that I talk to, but it is tricky. And it's like, how do we know that these people are the best? So find somebody who's a trusted source.   Kiera Dent (02:19.774) within the industry that you can trust. I have prided myself for years that I started Dental A Team because of Midwestern students. Shout out to all my Midwestern students out there. I noticed that in dental school, they were gonna get freaking eaten alive coming out into the world of dentistry. And it's like, how do you trust different reps? Because people are so good at selling you on the latest technology and the latest this and the latest that, that it's kind of scary.   And so that was something that I wanted to do is to be a resource, to be a beacon, to help you know, these are people I've vetted. Just so you know, any sponsor I bring on, they have to work with us. They have to do different pieces. They have to let me beta test on them of other practices before I will even introduce them. So I have quite a few people in the back burner at all times that I'm testing, that I'm vetting, that I wanna make sure that they're getting results before I bring them onto the podcast. I got burned a little bit early on. And also if you listen to past podcasts,   that company might not stay the top of the list. I'm constantly looking for it and I tell offices like you might not get to be or sponsors. I will always be looking and if someone comes in better than you, they will get promoted from me. So I think that that's one zone. Like I've told Zeke at Swell, if anybody comes onto the market that's better doing Google reviews than him, I will definitely promote them. As of today,   Zeke is still the number one way that I get Google reviews for clients. They tell me all the time, Kiera, but we have it in this software, this software. I say, guess what? Zeke does it for, think like 149 or 199 a month. And I have offices who I literally beta tested on who got over 50 reviews in one month from using Swell. They have grown their practice from having like three new patients a month, I'm not joking, to having over 45 new patients a month by using Swell. People ask, how did you do it, Kiera? And I'm like, honestly, it was Google reviews and time. That's it.   And so for that, I will promote them. And so when you're curious about how do we find this up to date of new technologies, I think listening to podcasts and listening to trusted sources out there, like AI and different pieces, I also think going to conferences. So the way I actually meet a ton of our sponsors and speakers and different people are through conferences. I go to these conventions and I go meet people and then I go test their products and then I work with them and I figure out and I have a lot of our clients are beta testers for me and they'll try them out and I get free trials for them.   Kiera Dent (04:35.566) but going to your conferences in your areas, not only is great for a CE, but go meet people. And I know it can be annoying to be sold all the time, but it can be helpful. And so for example, like right now, the greatest AI on the market is between Overjet and Pearl. Those are the top two for adding AI onto your X-rays to help you co-diagnose, to helping you with that. They're the best on the market. I love Pearl. That's the one we've selected to go with. We have an affiliate relationship with them where I get the most preferred pricing for all of our clients.   So if you're interested in that, be sure to reach out. We can help you connect with them and get that discounted rate. But this is how we do it. Also, I think online, like watching reels as silly as that sounds, but there's a lot on Instagram and TikTok and things like that. But then questioning it as well of is this really real and what really is needed for my practice? So right now AI is hot. So let's be looking at AI and what things could we implement into our practice. And it's one of those things I don't like to be the earliest adopter, but I also don't want to be the person who never adopted and I actually got left behind.   So when we're looking for this new technology, we're looking for these new things, attending those pieces, watching it, and then doing our own individual research. Like you can email me anytime, hey Kiera, have you heard about this company? I love it when people do that. Cause one, you expose me to other companies and two, I'm able to then go research them, vet them, and then bring it to the podcast and share. Because my goal is within our community, within consulting, I love it. We bring our offices together. And this is actually how I also learn about a lot of things. And that would be my third point of like, join a consulting group.   I know I'm a consultant, so hopefully you want to choose the Dental A Team, but join a consulting group that brings people together, that shares. We bring our doctors together every single month, and then we meet in person actually twice a year. And it's because I want you to mastermind and I want you to talk to each other, and I want you to figure out what are the best ideas, what are the best resources, who are you using for this, who are you using for that? Because just hearing and talking with other people, it's like, my gosh, I didn't even know that. In our company, we call it Tip Tuesday.   And every Tuesday, our team member brings pieces to the tables. Like today, Shelby brought like a window cleaner. And it seems so silly, but I think back to community, right? Think back to back in the day when we didn't have technology and we weren't all connected virtually, we were connected in person. And when you're in person, you chat. And when you chat, you share your secrets and you share the best things that work for you. And so like Shelby sharing a glass cleaner that's $2.89 on Amazon, life-changing.   Kiera Dent (06:59.234) But without community and without chatting, that's something that I would have just gone on my merry way continuing to buy Windex that is the strongest being promoted product out there. And it sounds so silly, but it's tips like that. What are the little things you're doing in your practice? What are the elite practices doing? What are other offices doing? And let's all share. And it's not just the elite practices. It's a lot of startups. Startups are scrappy. They've got other resources. But like I talked to my gym trainer and we used to virtually coach. And then I went in person with her.   And instantly I'm connected to people for the podcast and people for social media and different people for whatever it is because I'm with her. And so getting together with a consulting group that meets in person or meets virtually that shares ideas, our community goes wild and it's incredible to see them all sharing, hey, what cosmetic group do you want to go to? Or, hey, what's a great resource for this? Or what's a great thing for that? But being a part of a group of community of trusted colleagues, I also think is a great way to stay on top of it. Now, how do we get our team educated on it?   I think that there's other ways like you can take them to courses. So look to see, I usually try to do things within our team that I want to learn. So let's say we wanna learn marketing. We're gonna take our team to marketing events. We're going to find coaches for marketing. We're gonna find events around it. If you wanna do cosmetic, let's do cosmetic. Let's bring it to the office. Again, that's why I love consulting is because we literally fly to the office and we show you guys what you can implement within your practice that can help with it. So finding those things, but...   Also on your leadership team, get them fired up. Hygenist will go and look for research and information and see E that's going to make them so excited and so fun that they're excited about with laser and PRF and PRP and what can we do for snoring and different pieces like that. But find what you're passionate about. And that's also another way, because I think sometimes we get so inundated with technology that we miss what we're actually passionate about. And so really helping you realize this can be fun. You don't have to be.   over the top and like, my gosh, I'm missing out on all of this. I would say in a simple form of number one, plan to go to at least one dental convention every single year. I don't care what it is. I don't care where you go. I don't care if wanna travel out of state, but that's gonna be your best way to bring those people in because those conferences are constantly looking for sponsors and people and a lot of the newer companies, a lot of the OG companies.   Kiera Dent (09:13.528) they tend to attend these conferences. If you're not in a big area where maybe a lot of people won't come to it, go to some of the bigger ones like RMDC in Colorado, Chicago Midwinter, Dicama. Some of these are really big ones that will bring more people in for you. And you don't have to even go for the CE. Just go walk the vendor halls, go see who this is there, and then go do some research on it. Next would be, would say, listen to podcasts and attend free webinars. Our company puts on the third Thursday of every single month, we do a free CE webinar.   And I do that intentionally to bring great people to the audience, to share with you other people that are out there, to get all these different pieces of technology and sponsors and vendors and different things that will make your office easier, attend those. So I would pick once a year, go to a conference every month, find some sort of CE, whether it's a book, whether it's a webinar or something that's going to get you educated. And then the third thing I would say is to join a group, a consulting group, because honestly, that's where it's the networking, it's the community, it's sharing.   that you're going to learn all these different pieces. It's too hard to do it on your own. And so find someone. And of course, I would love Dental A Team to be your preferred consultant. I'd love us to help take you to the next level. I'd love to expose you and your team. We have virtual, we have in-person and we have in-person events and we have in-office visits as well where we come to your practice and we also meet together as a community, as a collective group. We do it on Friday and Saturday. It's really fun. It's really exciting. And it's a really great time to just connect to   to share and I think that you doing those items, you will stay up to date. There's no way you can't stay up to date as long as the consultant is innovative. And of course, I'm going to like toot my own horn. We're one of the youngest consulting companies out there. I'm nervous for us to become an older one, but I've tried really hard to keep myself young. Being a millennial, I'm very tech savvy. I'm very aggressive on research and knowledge and innovating and implementing ideas because I know that if we don't, be dated very quickly. And so,   also finding someone who is maybe a little bit younger on that. Like I look for social people that are in their twenties because they're going to innovate even better than I will. And so those would be some of my suggestions of how you can stay up to date, how you can stay current, how you can make sure that you're gathering all these research, these resources, and then realize I'm not going to catch them all, but I'm going to focus on the ones that turn my practice to ease efficiency in the areas I want. And that's what I'm going to do. And I guarantee you, if you do that, you will be so happy. So   Kiera Dent (11:36.386) Hopefully those gave you some ideas. Like I said, this was a topic that I thought everybody already knew, but in digging into it, I realized this can feel daunting and it can feel like I'm always behind, but I think breaking it down to your annual, your monthly, and then also joining a group. Again, like I said, I'd love you to be a part of it. I think those three things will keep you current and will keep your team current as well. And as always, if we can help you reach out, Hello@TheDentalATeam.com You guys are incredible. We're doing an incredible work. There's amazing things coming into dentistry. And I would say do not get left behind.   but stay current. And then I guess my fourth final tip for you would be commit to implementing at least one item of new technology every single year. And I think if you do those items, you will always stay up to date. I'm happy to share a ton of our resources. So reach out, Hello@TheDentalATeam.com And as always, thanks for listening. I'll catch you next time on the Dental A Team Podcast.

In this video I dive into why crypto collapsed, the macro setup, the fed, tariffs, Trump, rate cuts, how the impacts altseason and a ton more. Keep in mind this is just my personal take and what i'm doing with my personal money, not investment advice. ----------- THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

The Royal Ballet School (RBS) has reached a financial settlement with former student Ellen Elphick who said the body-shaming she experienced while at the elite institution has left her with lifelong psychological damage. The London-based school accepts no liability for the former dancer's case and has not issued an apology. Ellen talks to Anita Rani about the experience along with her lawyer, Dino Nocivelli.Female-dominated films are more likely to get more sexist criticism in reviews- that's according to a study of more than 17,000 reviews. Another study looked at how women in finance are portrayed in films and how this impacts real women working in the sector. Anita talks to the film critic, Leila Latif, about women in film.Cardiff University has announced possible cuts to 400 full-time jobs amid a funding shortfall. One of the departments to be potentially impacted is nursing and, whilst the university has said that no "final decisions" have been made and there's "no immediate impact" to those currently studying, concerns have been raised about the future supply of those going into the profession. Anita talks to Helen Whyley, executive director of the Royal College of Nursing Wales.Preet Chandi, better known as Polar Preet, broke world records in 2023 when she made the longest solo and unsupported journey across Antarctica, crossing 922 miles in 70 days. Now Preet is setting her sights on the North Pole, hoping to cross 500 miles of sea ice to reach it in under 70 days. She joins Anita to discuss why she's making the change to the North Pole, how she plans to get there and how she plans on dealing with polar bears.Poet Maria Ferguson has a new collection out. It's called Swell, and it explores the highs and lows of conception, pregnancy and motherhood, including looking at miscarriage. Maria joins Anita to talk about her compositions and why she wanted to write about becoming a mother.Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Rebecca Myatt

In this episode I dive into Trump buying the dip, the fed, interest rates and what's next, and my bull case for why I believe liquidity is coming for crypto. ----------- THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

In this episode I talk about Trump and his new memecoin, his first few days in office, will we get an altseason in February? Why I believe we'll see a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve, Tariffs, macro, the fed and a ton more. ----------- THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

You're not ready for this episode! Tune in to this crazy episode where Nice & Swell and Capital Dub both return to the Hotbox and turn the tables on us! We had to turn down the audio for this one...you'll see why! Watch out! This one is crazy but so much fun! *Please note all shows and contests have passed/ended*

In this episode I dive into why dollar strength is crushing the markets, Trumps first 100 days, why bad news is already priced in and where overall I think crypto is going from here. ----------- THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

Will brewing ever truly manage to become ‘sustainable'? Acknowledged by the UK government as a highly energy intensive sector of the economy, the industrial act of making beer has a far larger drain on our natural resources than those simply caused by heating liquid up and cooling it down again.Brewing uses a massive amount of water for a start, whether that's for cleaning, packaging, or making the beer itself. More pertinently, there's the fact that brewing is almost wholly reliant on industrial agriculture perennially lurking in its sizable shadow. The production of grain and hops for brewing has, arguably, the biggest impact on the industry's carbon footprint, which is why breweries like Gipsy Hill in South London are looking for ways to mitigate this.The brewery's founder, Sam McMeekin, has appeared on this podcast before speaking about what's know as ‘regenerative agriculture' – a system of sustainable cultivation that endeavours to increase the amount of carbon locked away by soils and their surrounding ecosystems. At FyneFest in 2022 the brewery was pouring a beer called Regenerator, which in addition to using regeneratively farmed barley malt, also utilised second use hops, reclaimed using a centrifugal filter Gipsy Hill has invested a considerable amount of money in.In August 2024 I paid a visit to the brewery to learn more about its investment into sustainable beer production. Regenerator has now spawned two new core beers. Called Trail (a pale ale) and Swell (a lager) both breweries use completely regeneratively farmed barley, contracted directly by Gipsy Hill and then malted for them at Warminster Maltings. A lot happened at Gipsy Hill after this conversation was recorded, including its acquisition by Sunrise Alliance Beverages – a step it took to avoid putting the company into administration. Which begs the question – can breweries actually afford to invest in sustainability at a meaningful level? Tune in to hear about the efforts Sam and Gipsy Hill continue to make in reducing this brewery's carbon footprint.We're able to produce The Pellicle Podcast directly thanks to our Patreon subscribers, and our sponsors Loughran Brewers Select. If you're enjoying this podcast, or the weekly articles we publish, please consider taking out a monthly subscription for less than the price of a pint a month.

In this episode I dive into Arbius a crypto ai project that I personally hold and wanted to go deeper on. We talk about their frontend Amica, their upcoming marketplace, future airdrops, fully autonomous AI agents, as well as a ton more. ----------- THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

Dive headfirst into this week's Skeleton Crew episode with Josh, Blake, Dan, and Kyle!  Only two weeks left of our Skeleton Crew aftershow.  We wish you a fantastic New Year!  Look for our 2025 preview episode later this month, plus upcoming book reviews and a behind-the-scenes chat with Twin Suns Film Foundation about Bucketheads Part 3. Star Wars Escape Pod BucketHeads Playlist https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfdf9BVw78eM88ezMqMFppBFv7XbTKo7_&si=BRwOxy0vc2uyAZHP SUBSCRIBE  - BUCKETHEADS YOUTUBE 2023 BucketHeads Interview / Behind the Fan Film Series (Part 1 & 2) https://open.spotify.com/episode/4B44XJI0NaXivtpFnUxdCQ?si=5b9ac5a09fe141ef Black Panther Collectables https://blackpanthercollectables.ca/?srsltid=AfmBOoqQjvj7FbE4_i8fGQuEtPG1itWS3P3JaUgW4nPvwbKPtT7sP113 ———————————————————————— Star Wars Escape Pod

In this episode I dive into the current market setup, what it means for an altseason and the overall 2025 bull run. I also dive into various projects like INDEX, UNA, AKT, SFG, COW, POL, PERC, and RSC. ----------- THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

Today on Miss Understood, I'm joined by the brilliant Israeli actress Swell Ariel to discuss her powerful Netflix film, Kissufim. The story delves into love, loss, and resilience, but its impact is even deeper now. Filmed in a region devastated by the tragic events of October 7, the film's themes resonate in heartbreaking new ways. Join us for this deeply moving conversation about art, humanity, and the enduring connections that bind us.” Want to advertise on our show? Email us at: info@truenativemedia.com --- --- --- VISIT OUR AMAZING SPONSOR! --- --- — RENEW YOUTH For a limited time, you can save 50% on your initial lab testing! Only available by going to: https://www.renewyouth.com/missunderstood --- --- — HOLISTIC GODDESS  Holistic Goddess is a sanctuary for those seeking holistic health solutions. Visit ⁠https://holisticgoddess.com/understood⁠ and use the code 'Understood' for 15% off site-wide, no limit of use, and applies to subscriptions and one-time purchases. --- --- — LOLAVIE Get 15% off LolaVie with the code RACHEL15 at ⁠https://www.lolavie.com/RACHEL⁠ #lolaviepod --- --- --- Shop Miss Understood Merch https://mumerch.com/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Rachel on Instagram!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.instagram.com/racheluchitelnyc/?hl=en Follow Rachel on TikTok! https://www.tiktok.com/@itsracheluchitel Executive Producer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠George Carmona  Please like, share, subscribe, and give us a 5-star review! Do you have show ideas or media requests? Email the show at: ru@missumedia.com Listen on Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw13NrSKD-nD_8E0vBHt5hA⁠⁠ Website: https://missunderstoodpodcast.com/

This'd be a swell time for a Sidney Crosby surge, huh? Hear award-winning columnist Dejan Kovacevic's Daily Shots of Steelers, Penguins and Pirates -- three separate podcasts -- every weekday morning on the DK Pittsburgh Sports podcasting network, available on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/dkpghsports Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I look at past cycles and try to map out what we can expect to play out during the 2025 crypto bull run. Diving into when we can expect an altseason, the two distinct phases of a bull run, price action for Ethereum and Bitcoin, crypto gaming, NFT's and a ton more. ----------- THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

In October 2024, New York-based Swell VC announced its second fund with $11.5 million in commitments.  Co-founded by general partners Jay Patil and Rusty Ralston in 2011, the firm now manages two seed-stage funds and a special purpose vehicle with $19 million in assets. Compared to larger firms, they're small potatoes — but that's intentional. Swell VC is all about being hands-on: helping founders with critical early hires and go-to-market strategies. I invited them on Fund/Build/Scale to discuss their investment thesis, why diversity matters for building innovative teams, and how to know when it's finally time to stop thinking about your startup idea and start building. RUNTIME 42:09 EPISODE BREAKDOWN (1:36) Rusty explains how he and Jay met. (4:08) “ People determine the outcome of a company.” (5:36) “ You start the search when you're ready to hire. And then you build momentum.” (8:27) When Swell VC gets involved with founders, where they're looking to invest. (11:24) Jay talks about the firm's portfolio strategy and its second fund. (14:38) When it comes to early hiring, “ over the last 15 years, we've codified like all of our learnings.” (17:16) Where do  founders make the most mistakes in the hiring/interview process?  (21:43) “A  big blind spot is thinking diversity is just about hitting certain metrics.” (23:15) “ We're all about finding founders to live on what we call ‘the edge of the inside.'” (26:39) “ No solo founder can do everything forever.” (29:14) “ You don't need to build a full team right away. Your network is kind of your first line.” (31:55) Signals that indicate a founder's ready to take the leap into entrepreneurship. (34:40) Why Swell VC is looking for category-creating startups to invest in. (37:34) Questions Jay and Rusty expect founders to ask during the discovery meeting. (40:25) How they prefer to be pitched. LINKS Jay Patil Rusty Ralston Swell VC info@swell.vc Swell VC Closes $11.5M Fund II, Proving Small Funds Can Deliver Big Wins (PR Newswire) Distributed to Paid-In Capital (DPI) definition SUBSCRIBE

Click here to watch this episode on YouTube and subscribe to our channel!Did you know you can support The Rumcast on Patreon now and get bonus episodes, happy hours, and more? You can! Head to patreon.com/therumcast to check it out.We're back with another entry in our semi-blind reviews series — but yet again with a twist! In this mystery sample edition, both of us have no idea what the identity of this rum is as we review it. Along the way, we offer our best guesses as to the rum's origin and key characteristics.This time, it's a 13-year-old rhum agricole from Isautier Distillery in Réunion Island bottled by Swell de Spirits.Rum specs:Bottler: Swell de SpiritsOrigin: Réunion IslandDistillery: IsautierBase material: Cane juiceDistillation: ColumnAge: 13 yearsCask: Ex-CognacABV: 59.4%A special thank you to Rumcast patron Ben for providing the mystery sample.

In this episode I talk about how I went from unemployment to $1,000,000 in just a year and a half. My journey doing side hustles, investing, and ultimately crypto investing. ----------- THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

Browns beat reporter Daryl Ruiter joins Baskin and Phelps to break down Bubba Ventrone's comments about the future of Dustin Hopkins and helps to understand Jimmy Haslem's comments about Kevin Stefanski and Andrew Berry.

In this episode I talk to Justin Gary co founder of Sol Forge Fusion a crypto card game co created by the original creator of Magic The Gathering. Today this project is tiny, but I believe it's worth doing a deep dive and seeing where this thing could potentially go. ----------- THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

In this episode I dive deep into the markets, what's happening and what I see coming next. Including diving into how to position yourself for what I believe is a coming altseason. What to expect early January, why ETH seems primed to take the reigns of the market and more. ----------- THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

In this episode I dive into the current setup and where I believe the crypto markets are going from here. Looking at the overall macro setup, crypto under Trump, and the 4 year cycle. ----------- THE OBSIDIAN COUNCIL PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP

I interviewed Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse at the Swell conference.Topics: - RLUSD Stablecoin - Stablecoin Regulations in the US & EU- XRP ETF filings - Will the SEC Block the XRP ETFs - Will Ripple IPO in 2025? - Crypto Regulations - Crypto market Outlook Show Sponsor -

Two Hot Takes host, Morgan, is joined by guest co-host Amanda Polka from Swell Entertainment!! Sometimes we hear these stories and we don't know how to feel, but we know things are NOT swell. We recognize the people in these stories deserve better, things should not be so unfair, or they need to run for their own good. Life throws a lot at us, but we all deserve for things to be swell. Thank you ahead of time for your thoughts on these ones.. they are TOUGH. TW* please pay close attention to the trigger warnings mentioned. Especially on the last real story we read. Checkout Amanda's Content!! https://www.youtube.com/@SwellEntertainment https://www.instagram.com/luvu2golka/?hl=en LIVE SHOW TICKETS HERE!! https://linktr.ee/twohottakestour MERCH IS ON SALE HERE ! https://shop.twohottakes.com Bonus Content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TwoHotTakes I can't wait to see you all in these, especially at our live shows!! Our PO Box!! Two Hot Takes. 5042 Wilshire BLVD. #470. Los Angeles, CA 90036 Our SubReddit to Submit YOUR Stories!!! https://reddit.app.link/twohottakes Full length Video episodes available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TwoHotTakes Partners: Talkspace: Talkspace.com/tht Promo code: space80 RoBody: ro.co/tht Shopify: Shopify.com/tht  ZocDoc: zocdoc.com/tht