Podcasts about TiVo

Whatcha 349: Episode 349 - Almost another 10 episodes down, another round of What have your Hosts been enjoying with a special Whatcha episode! Your hosts almost have a year's worth of content for you, so get ready to celebrate another milestone episode by hearing about some Normie Pop Culture on a chill, relaxed episode of Normies Like Us. Thank you so much for listening, Normies! Insta: @NormiesLikeUs https://www.instagram.com/normieslikeus/ @jacob https://www.instagram.com/jacob/ @MikeHasInsta https://www.instagram.com/mikehasinsta/ https://letterboxd.com/BabblingBrooksy/ https://letterboxd.com/hobbes72/ https://letterboxd.com/mikejromans/

On todays 1hour and 26 min mega episode her Futurist Mark sing and  the potential displacement of human jobs by AI, with concerns about AI's capabilities and the timeline of job replacement. The convergence of quantum computing, robotics, and generative AI was highlighted, along with the impact on the labor force. The conversation also touched on the ethical implications of AI-generated content, such as deepfakes, and the potential for AI to create realistic videos. Additionally, the group discussed the durability of electric vehicle batteries, the darkening of ocean waters due to sediment, and the implications of backdoors in messaging apps for government surveillance. The discussion covered various topics, including prepper mindsets, AI's impact on human behavior, and the potential for robots in combat. They debated whether AI would make humans kinder, concluding it would likely increase selfishness. The conversation also touched on the inefficiencies of modern conveniences, such as TiVo and GPS, and their effects on patience. Additionally, they discussed Starlink's challenges due to solar flares affecting their satellite constellation. The group also speculated on the role of Elon Musk in Trump's 2020 election victory, with differing opinions on his influence. don't miss it!

Hello fiends, familiars, and you Schematic fanatics! We are back this week with our old friend Caleb Masters to discuss Tropic Thunder. Yes, a movie that may or may not be possible to make now. A movie that came back with a vengeance when a new class of film watcher discovered Kirk Lazarus. We discuss Hollywood satire, the act of black face, the state of film criticism, and much, much more. So, grab your Booty Sweat, set your TiVo, and join us as we bring Tropic Thunder to the analysis table!

March 6-12, 2004 This week Ken welcomes podcaster, film critic and author of the new book "Gandolfini: Jim, Tony, and the Life of a Legend", Jason Bailey.  Ken and Jason discuss living in The Bronx, moving from Kansas to NYC, wanting to leave your home town, the Sopranos phenomenon, HBO original programming, 1st and Ten, prestige TV, unlikeable protagonists, America Undercover, Tales from the Crypt, Mario Van Peebles, werewolves, Daybreak, failed pilots, Cast a Deadly Spell, working at video stores, dropping out of playing Sammy the Bull, being replaced by William Foresythe, the complicated history of James Gandolfini, standing out in the sea of books about the Sopranos, True Romance, IDing future stars, how Karen "Duff" Duffy is the greatest human being ever, Duff and Gandolfini's high school days together, New Jersey, Steve Buscemi, stealing behind the scenes people from Trees Lounge, Season 5 of the Sopranos, Larraine Braco, Goodfellas, avoiding the press, taking years long breaks between seasons, TV on DVD, the post 9-11 TV landscape, why it was a benefit to have a higher retail price, American Idol, William Hung, Jeffery Donovan, Touching Evil, Burn Notice, Ressurecting Judas, Easter programming, "Invasion of the Dumb Blondes", how reality TV killed Anna Nicole Smith, how the US remake of The Office will never work, TrimSpa, David Mamet plays, Beyond the Valley of the Dolls, basic cable network identity, Six Feet Under, Paige Davis and Trading Spaces, writing a book about Die Hard, Die Hard rip offs, E! True Hollywood stories, sleaze, Gilmore Girls, Michael Chiklis, being told you'll never work in Hollywod again, The Shield, Nip/Tuck, bad investments, The Danbury Mint, Brian DePalma, Femme Fatale, TiVo, lost media, how awful The Apprentice was and how it ruined the world forever, mean spirited prank shows, Jaime Kennedy Show, why big budget movies are all now geared towards 12 year olds, seeing R rated movies with your parents, Playing it Straight, Wonderfalls, and Jason's fantastic podcasts.   

SHOW NOTES/TRANSCRIPTSEnglish: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC223ENFrench: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC223FRGerman: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC223DEPortuguese: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC223PTSpanish: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC223ESYOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/7uY-xAeeXYMFREE PDF DOWNLOADS OF followHIM QUOTE BOOKSNew Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastNTBookOld Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastOTBookWEEKLY NEWSLETTERhttps://tinyurl.com/followHIMnewsletterSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/followHIMpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/followhimpodcastThanks to the followHIM team:Steve & Shannon Sorensen: Cofounder, Executive Producer, SponsorDavid & Verla Sorensen: SponsorsDr. Hank Smith: Co-hostJohn Bytheway: Co-hostDavid Perry: ProducerKyle Nelson: Marketing, SponsorLisa Spice: Client Relations, Editor, Show NotesWill Stoughton: Video EditorKrystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, WebsiteAriel Cuadra: Spanish TranscriptsAmelia Kabwika: Portuguese TranscriptsHeather Barlow: Communications DirectorIride Gonzalez: Social Media, Graphic Design"Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonaldhttps://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com

TiVo's new Video Trends report shows that video bundles are simplifying, total video spending is dropping, sports fragmentation is growing, and smart TV loyalty is increasing.

(00:00-21:18) Chris Kerber joins the show as he recovers from back surgery. Dylan Holloway week to week. A chance for Snuggerud to step up. Blues struggling when the opponent pulls the goalie. Playoff tiebreakers. Can Jim Montgomery win coach of the year? Homer announcers.(21:26-46:50) One Shining Moment. They're not happy with the Billikens. Frozen Four Corner. Balls in the air at August in just 72 hours. Having trouble finding the Masters song with lyrics. The Dotem song slaps. Doug's TIVO. Mystery sweatshirt. (47:00-54:14) Audio of Avalance play-by-play guy Connor McGahey exasperated with the Blues luck on Saturday. The texters are angry with each other. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

(00:00-21:18) Chris Kerber joins the show as he recovers from back surgery. Dylan Holloway week to week. A chance for Snuggerud to step up. Blues struggling when the opponent pulls the goalie. Playoff tiebreakers. Can Jim Montgomery win coach of the year? Homer announcers. (21:26-46:50) One Shining Moment. They're not happy with the Billikens. Frozen Four Corner. Balls in the air at August in just 72 hours. Having trouble finding the Masters song with lyrics. The Dotem song slaps. Doug's TIVO. Mystery sweatshirt. (47:00-54:14) Audio of Avalance play-by-play guy Connor McGahey exasperated with the Blues luck on Saturday. The texters are angry with each other. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Inside Content, Jack Thomas, Director at 3Vision, is joined by Briana Larsen, VP of Business Development & Content Partnerships, and Stéphane David, Head of Business Development & Strategy, EMEA at TiVo, to discuss how TiVo is redefining the smart TV experience through AI-driven recommendations, voice search, and content personalization.The conversation also covers the rise of FAST channels, the importance of local content, and TiVo's expansion beyond smart TVs into in-car entertainment with BMW. Plus, Briana and Stéphane share insights on hyper-personalized content recommendations, multi-platform viewing, and the role of AI in shaping the future of streaming experiences.Stay in the content world loop

Hello Interactors,The land on which we stand can demand where we politically stand. But what happens when that land shifts, shakes, burns or blows away? Recent Southern U.S. floods displaced thousands. Disasters don't just destroy — they can redraw political lines. With second round of Trumpster fires deepening divides, geography and ideology matter more than ever. As climate crises, economic upheaval, and political struggles intensify, the question isn't just where people live — but what they'll fight for. History shows that when the ground shifts, so does power.SHIFTING LANDS AND LOYALTIESFrom fertile fields to frenzied financial hubs, geography molds the mindset of the masses. Where people live shapes what they fear, fight for, and find familiar. Farmers in the Great Plains worry about wheat yields and water rights, while coastal city dwellers debate rent control and rising tides.But political geography isn't just about climate and crops — it's about power, privilege, and the collective making of place. No space is neutral; as evidenced by the abrupt renaming of an entire gulf. History and the present are filled with examples of territories being carved and controlled, gerrymandered, and gentrified.The recent floods in the South serve as a stark reminder of how geography has historically upended political identity. Especially during Black History Month. The Mississippi River Flood of 1927 was a devastating deluge that displaced thousands of Black sharecroppers, washing away not only homes but also old political loyalties. The Republican-controlled federal government, led by President Calvin Coolidge, took a hands-off approach, refusing to allocate federal aid and instead relying on Secretary of Commerce Herbert Hoover to coordinate relief efforts through the Red Cross.However, aid distribution was dominated by white Southern landowners, who withheld resources from Black communities. They forced many into quasi-forced labor camps under the guise of relief. Hoover, later touting his role in disaster response to win the 1928 presidency, was ultimately seen by many Black voters as complicit in their mistreatment. This failure accelerated Black voters' gradual shift away from the Republican Party, a realignment that would deepen under FDR's New Deal in the 1930s. The flood was not just a natural disaster — it was a political reckoning. Who received help and who was abandoned shaped party loyalties for generations to come.Yet, history proves that political realignments are rarely one-sided or uniform. While Black voters were shifting toward the Democratic Party, another Southern political identity crisis was brewing. Southern white conservatives — longtime Democrats due to the party's historical ties to segregation — began their own political migration in the mid-to-late 20th century.The Civil Rights Movement and desegregation led many white Southerners to feel alienated from the Democratic Party, pushing them toward what was once unthinkable — the Republican Party. This shift cemented a racialized realignment, with Black voters backing Democrats and Southern white conservatives reshaping the GOP into today's right-wing stronghold.Both political shifts were responses to crisis — one to environmental disaster and racial exclusion, the other to social change and perceived status loss. The fact that geography remained constant but political identities flipped highlights a crucial truth: where people live matters, but how they respond to change depends on identity, history, and power.The political path of any place isn't just shaped by its space — it's who claims the land, who crafts the law, and who casts a crisis as chaos or cause.SORTED, SEPARATED, AND STUCKGeography shapes political identity but doesn't dictate it. Human agency, economics, and psychology influence where people live and how they vote. Over time, self-sorting creates ideological enclaves, deepening polarization instead of fostering realignment.Psychologists Henri Tajfel and John Turner's Social Identity Theory explains why people align with in-groups and see out-groups as threats, as identity shapes self-esteem and belonging. This leads to in-group favoritism, out-group bias, and polarization, especially when power or resources feel like a zero-sum game.But Optimal Distinctiveness Theory (ODT) adds another layer to this understanding. Developed by Marilynn Brewer, building on Social Identity Theory, ODT proposes that people need to feel a sense of belonging to a group while also maintaining individuality within it. This balancing act between assimilation and uniqueness explains why political identities are not just about partisanship — they encompass culture, lifestyle, and even geography. Individuals self-sort both by community and distinction within their chosen political and social environments.Modern political sorting has made partisanship an all-encompassing identity. It aligns with race, religion, and even consumer habits. This process has been amplified by geography, as people increasingly move to communities where they feel they “fit in” while also distinguishing themselves within their political faction. ODT helps explain why urban progressives might distinguish themselves through niche ideological positions (e.g., Socialists in Brooklyn vs. Tech libertarians in San Francisco), while rural conservatives in swing states may lean into Christian nationalism or libertarianism (e.g. Christian nationalists in rural Pennsylvania vs. Tea Party libertarians in rural Wisconsin).American political power is unevenly distributed. The Senate majority can be won with just 17% of the population, and the Electoral College inflates rural influence. The 10 smallest states hold 3% of the population but 20% of Senate seats and 6% of electoral votes. This imbalance amplifies rural conservative power, giving certain regions outsized political sway.ODT also helps explain why political polarization has deepened over time rather than softened with economic shifts. Historically, political realignments occurred when crisis moments forced cross-cutting alliances — like when poor white and Black farmers joined forces during the Populist Movement of the 1890s to challenge banking and railroad monopolies.However, these coalitions often fell apart due to racial and regional pressures. The Populist Party was ultimately absorbed into the Democratic Party's white Southern wing, leaving Black farmers politically stranded. They still are. Around 1890 Black farmers made up an estimated 14% of farmers in America, now it's fewer than 2% due to racist lending practices, discriminatory federal policies, land dispossession, and systemic barriers to credit and resources.Today, realignments are rare because identity-based partisanship satisfies both belonging and distinctiveness (ODT). Rural conservatives see themselves not just as Republicans but as defenders of a distinct way of life, reinforcing identity through regional pride, gun rights, and religion. Urban liberals, meanwhile, develop sub-identities — progressives, moderates, democratic socialists — within the broader Democratic Party. This illusion of uniformity masks deep internal ideological divides.This sorting shapes where people live, what they watch, and which policies they support. The false consensus effect deepens political silos, as rural conservatives and urban progressives assume their views are widely shared. When elections defy expectations, the result is shock, anger, and further retreat into ideological camps.This explains why U.S. political alignments resist economic and geographic shifts that once drove realignments. Where hardship once built coalitions, modern partisanship acts as a psychological refuge. The question is whether climate change, automation, or mass migration will disrupt these patterns — or cement them. Will today's anxieties redraw party lines, or will political sorting persist, turning geography into a fortress for the familiar, deepening division and partisan pride?FROM REALITY TV TO ALTERNATE REALITYIf geography and identity sketch borders of polarization, then media is the Sharpie darkening the divide. The digital age hardens these political divides, where confirmation bias runs rampant and algorithms push people to one side of the ideological line or the other.In a recent interview, political psychologist and polarization expert Liliana Hall Mason, known for her research on identity-based partisanship and rising affective polarization, recalled a 2012 TiVO study that analyzed TV viewing habits of Democrats and Republicans. The study found that among the top 10 most-watched TV shows for each party, there was zero overlap — Democrats and Republicans were consuming completely separate entertainment. Cultural, and presumably geographical, divergence was already well underway in the 2010s.Republicans favored shows like Duck Dynasty while Democrats gravitated toward satirical cartoons like Family Guy​. While it predates TiVO, I was more of a King of Hill fan, myself. I thought Hank Hill humanized conservative rural life without glorifying extremism while critiquing aspects of modernity without being elitist. Hulu has announced its return sometime this year. But Republicans and Democrats today don't even consume the same reality — they don't watch the same news, follow the same influencers, trust the same institutions, or even shop at the same grocery stores. Will both tune into watch Hank Hill walk the tight rope of a pluralistic suburban American existence?This media-driven fragmentation fuels geographic sorting, as political preferences influence where people choose to live. A person might leave a liberal city for a conservative suburb, or vice versa, based on what media tells them about their “kind of people.” Over time, partisan enclaves harden, reducing exposure to opposing viewpoints and making political shifts less likely.When political identities are so deeply entrenched that losing an election feels like an existential crisis, the risk of political violence rises. Mason's research on rising authoritarian attitudes and partisan animosity shows that political opponents aren't just seen as rivals anymore — they're seen as enemies.January 6th, 2021, wasn't an anomaly — it was the inevitable explosion of years of identity-based sorting and status-threat rhetoric. The rioters who stormed the Capitol weren't just protesting an election loss; they saw themselves as defenders of a nation slipping from their grasp, fueled by a deep-seated fear of demographic change, progressive policies, and shifting cultural power.Studies show that people who feel their group is losing influence are more likely to justify violence, particularly when they perceive existential threats to their way of life. Right-wing media reinforced these fears, political leaders legitimized them, and geographic and social sorting further entrenched them. In an era where partisan identity feels like destiny, and grievance is turned into a rallying cry, the potential for future political violence remains dangerously real.History teaches us that political geography isn't destiny — alignments shift when necessity forces cooperation. As the world faces climate crises, economic instability, and mass migration, new political realignments will emerge. The question is whether they will lead to solidarity or further strife.At the end of the Mason interview, she mentions the role anger and enthusiasm play in political motivations. This concept is part of the Norwegian philosopher and social theorist, Jon Elster, who is best known for his work on rational choice theory, emotions in politics, and historical institutionalism. He has written extensively on how emotions like anger, enthusiasm, resentment, and hope shape political behavior and social movements, especially in historical contexts like the French Revolution and modern populist movements.Anger mobilizes movements, making people willing to fight for change or push back against it. The Populist farmers of the 1890s, the labor activists of apartheid South Africa, and the displaced communities of Partition-era India all channeled rage into resistance. At the same time, enthusiasm — a belief in the possibility of transformation — is what sustains coalitions beyond crisis moments. The formation of the EU, the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland, and Brazil's leftist labor movement all survived because hope outlasted grievance.Political movements often begin with anger, but only survive through enthusiasm. This is why some burn out quickly (Occupy Wall Street, the Tea Party) while others reshape history (the Civil Rights Movement, Brexit, Trump's populism). Looking ahead, the political geography of the future will be shaped by whichever emotion proves stronger. Will fear and resentment deepen polarization, or will shared enthusiasm for economic justice, environmental sustainability, and democratic resilience create new cross-cutting alliances? The past suggests both are possible. But if history has one lesson, it's that the lines on the map are never as fixed as they seem — and neither are the people who live within them.Bibliography This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit interplace.io

Inner Journey with Greg Friedmabn welcomes Brian Seth Hurst. Brianhas built a career at the forefront of storytelling and technology innovation. While working for entertainment marketing powerhouse Pittard Sullivan, he was a member of the original TiVo team, contributing to the development and user experience of the world's first DVR.   He is also co-author with Olivia Newton-John of the best selling children's book “A Pig Tale” from Simon & Schuster> Brian's latest offering is the book “WHOLE,” a collection of essays on life's challenges and the companion workbook, that helps us address and resolve our live's challenges.

Yass thegoat1.blogspot.com

I finally start talkin Megan Fox at 54:30Otherwise I come up with a couple cool podcast names (as I begin my side hustle as a podcastpreneur) The New Norse and Lotta Latte Art⭐️ At 39:00 I play the season 9 trailer of Summer House

This episode I want you to meet Acen Kevin from Northern Uganda. Acen is unstoppable and remarkable in many ways. She grew up an orphan in Uganda and experienced many hardships and challenges working to seek an education. She discovered the power of community and persevered with the help and support of others. She secured a degree in Accounting and Finance and works in that field part time.   In 2021, Acen founded Itinga Charity Education Foundation, (ICEF) to sponsor and help children with disabilities and other disadvantaged children to get some of the breaks she received when seeking an education. She will tell us some of the stories of students who began with little or no hope and whose families also had no faith that their children could ever be successful. However, with the help of ICEF many children already have experienced life-changing attitudes and are getting the education they deserve. Wait until you hear the story about the blind magistrate who received assistance from ICEF and who now is well respected and has not lost a case.   It is always so rewarding to be able to talk with someone like Acen Kevin who just doesn't talk a good line, but who also proves daily that she lives and walks the walk she wishes for others to do.       About the Guest:   Acen Kevin is the Founder and Executive Director of Itinga Charity Education Foundation (ICEF), a non-profit NGO based in Uganda. With a strong commitment to advancing the education of disadvantaged children and youth in Northern Uganda, Acen has established ICEF to provide scholarships, grants, and essential educational resources to schools and children in need.   A dedicated disability inclusion advocate, Acen's work with ICEF focuses on empowering blind children through education. By championing inclusive education, Her non profit NGO is working in Partnership with Imara-Uganda Education Fund UK  to fund the  construction of an inclusive secondary school in Northern Uganda that is already providing  inclusive education to both abled and disabled students, fostering a supportive and accessible learning environment for all.   In addition to her impactful work in the non-profit sector, Acen Kevin is also a finance and accounting professional, holding a degree in Accounting and Finance from Metropolitan International University (MIU). Her diverse skill set includes proficiency in computerized accounting tools such as QuickBooks and Excel, as well as experience in financial reporting, budgeting, and internal controls.   Outside of her role at ICEF, Acen is a talented filmmaker and actress in Uganda, using her creative talents to raise awareness and advocate for social change. She is a line producer of  CLUBFOOT movie that is creating awareness  and  remedies to clubfoot. Disability through clubfoot can  only be avoided at early childhood. Acen also  featured on  the Wave movie and  TV series Senkyu boss among others.   Acen Kevin is a selfless philanthropist who continues to make a positive impact in her community and beyond.   Ways to connect with Nick:   REACH OUT TO ITINGA CHARITY EDUCATION FOUNDATION (ICEF) ON THE WEBSITE  https://icef-itinga.org   LINKEDIN  https://www.linkedin.com/in/acen-kevin-daniela-336386281?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app   FACEBOOK  https://www.facebook.com/Itinga.org   WHATSAPP   +256 705 100 34 For inquiries or collaboration opportunities, please contact Acen Kevin  (Daniela) at: Telephone: +256 772 003 460. Email: kevin.abtmail@gmail.com, kevin@icef-itinga.org     About the Host:   Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog.   Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards.   https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/   accessiBe Links https://accessibe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/accessiBe https://www.linkedin.com/company/accessibe/mycompany/   https://www.facebook.com/accessibe/       Thanks for listening!   Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!   Subscribe to the podcast   If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can subscribe in your favorite podcast app. You can also support our podcast through our tip jar https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/unstoppable-mindset .   Leave us an Apple Podcasts review   Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.       Transcription Notes:   Michael Hingson ** 00:00 Access Cast and accessiBe Initiative presents Unstoppable Mindset. The podcast where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. Hi, I'm Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe and the author of the number one New York Times bestselling book, Thunder dog, the story of a blind man, his guide dog and the triumph of trust. Thanks for joining me on my podcast as we explore our own blinding fears of inclusion unacceptance and our resistance to change. We will discover the idea that no matter the situation, or the people we encounter, our own fears, and prejudices often are our strongest barriers to moving forward. The unstoppable mindset podcast is sponsored by accessiBe, that's a c c e s s i capital B e. Visit www.accessibe.com to learn how you can make your website accessible for persons with disabilities. And to help make the internet fully inclusive by the year 2025. Glad you dropped by we're happy to meet you and to have you here with us.   Michael Hingson ** 01:21 Hi and welcome to unstoppable mindset. We're glad you're back with us again, and today we get to meet with Acen Kevin Danila. And it's actually Acen Kevin, and Danila is her middle name. She is the founder of ICEF, a charity in northern Uganda that helps children, disadvantaged children specifically. And I'm fascinated to hear about that and to learn more about what the charity does and and so on. But we're going to start by welcoming Acen to the podcast and learn a little bit about her. So Acen, I want to welcome you to unstoppable mindset. Thank you for taking the time.   Acen Kevin ** 02:05 Thank you so much, Michael. Thank you so much. And thanks for giving me the opportunity being the unstoppable mindset podcast. It's a great pleasure.   Michael Hingson ** 02:20 Well, why don't we start by you telling us a little bit about you growing up and kind of the early Acen, if you will. Okay?   Acen Kevin ** 02:31 My story growing up has not been easy in terms of education. I struggled so much through education being unopened, I really did not have anybody to support me through education, but like the sales goes that people are stronger when you're together. So I had really so many people who supported me through education. I was sponsored by five different individuals, people, including an organization in Mara Uganda education. So you can imagine that it has really been a struggle, and that is one of the reason why I decided to give back to the community to see that children who were in the situation that I was, or even was, children that are traveling through education, they can get education. So life has not been really so easy as far as education is concerned. For me,   Michael Hingson ** 03:47 one of the things that you do with the foundation, and we'll get to the foundation, but you do a lot of work with children with disabilities. Did you or do you have a disability?   Acen Kevin ** 03:57 No, no, I don't have any disability at all. Okay, yeah,   Michael Hingson ** 04:04 but that's just one of the areas that you decided that you wanted to work with. So did you? You went to you went to school, and you said education was hard, I assume, because just the normal pressures of being an orphan and and just having to do all the things that you had to do growing up, right? Yes, so   Acen Kevin ** 04:24 I really decided to support disability inclusions, support inclusive education, to sponsor children and youth who are blind and those with low vision, not because I have any disability, but because in my community, I see two sides. I see those ones who are empowered, and those one who I educated, and they have the skills they do better. Lacher than the somebody who is blind and is not empowered. Normally, they turn into begging on streets, and they say, they say to start to look at them like a burden in the society. So I, through my charity, and it is what we are doing now, we want to empower them so that they can reach their full potentials, they can be able to earn a living through the skills they get through education. And I am inspired by the blind people who are educated and they are empowered. One of them is the majesty grade one judge who is also from my community is a lawyer. Sorry, it is that is the inspiration I am inspired by people like you. So I want really many people with the disability to get because chance education, yeah, thank you.   Michael Hingson ** 06:05 So did you? Did you go to college? Yes,   Acen Kevin ** 06:10 yes, I have a degree in accounting and finance. Well,   Michael Hingson ** 06:14 that's a little bit different from starting a charity or a foundation, it would seem, but you you got your degree in finance and accounting. Did you do anything directly with that? Did you have any earlier jobs in accounting and finance, or did you decide immediately that you wanted to start the foundation,   Acen Kevin ** 06:37 um, with my career in a degree in accounting and finance. I do practice that as well. Even in the NGO, it really helped me to do good accounting taxation. So I still use the same skill to run the strategy, and I practice that before. Yes, accounting and finance. So it has really helped, helped me, yes. So   Michael Hingson ** 07:07 tell us a little bit about if you would the foundation, the name of it, and where the name came from, and how you started it. Yes.   Acen Kevin ** 07:18 Eating a charity. Education Foundation is a non profit organization that advanced education of disadvantaged children in northern Uganda through provision of scholarships, materials, school supplies and facilities for education. The word eating is the local law language, which means you lift me. So it symbolizes lifting up children out of poverty through education. So eating means you lift me.   Michael Hingson ** 07:53 Atinga means you lift me. Okay, I understand that, which is a very clever name and very accurate.   Acen Kevin ** 08:04 We focus mainly on disability inclusion and empowering the blind and youth to reach their full potentials.   Michael Hingson ** 08:11 When did you start the foundation?   Acen Kevin ** 08:15 The foundations, uh, started in 2021   Michael Hingson ** 08:19 so it's fairly new. So it's been, sorry I say it's fairly new. It's been around three years. Yes,   Acen Kevin ** 08:26 yes, for three years, yes, but we're already making great impact.   Michael Hingson ** 08:32 Well, tell me a little bit about that. Tell me if you could about maybe some of the the people you've helped some of their stories, a little bit, if you would,   Acen Kevin ** 08:43 the children that we are supporting,   Michael Hingson ** 08:45 yeah, a little bit about them, kind of what successes you have.   Acen Kevin ** 08:51 Okay, so, as I said earlier on, that the organization sponsor children through Award Scholarship for education. So the children that we are having and our scholarship programs are children that are really needy, and they are coming from very poor background, so we provide them with full scholarship, and they we educate them right from primary level, secondary level, up to university, then terza institution and vocational depending on the capability of the child. But those children, they are these families that stand out. They they all have different, different stories. Like, for example, we have two families that has many children. They have many children with who are blind. There's one family that have seven children, and of the seven. Children. Four were born completely blind. So in 2019 we started sponsoring one of them. Then this year, we got a sponsor who offered to sponsor a child and is sponsoring one. So so far in that family, we are helping two children, and they it is hard. Life is hard for them, as they are facing farmers and having to take care of the poor, totally blind children and then the rest the seven children all in the family. We also have similar family. There's a family we are supporting now, one girl who is studying in the new school that we have the inclusive schools, and Mary Goretti is the akulo. Akulo comes from a family of nine. There are nine children, but out of the nine, four were born blind, and she she did not really get a chance to study in an inclusive school during our primary. So one of our brother, the elder brother, who is also blind, dropped out of school already, and even her, she had already dropped out of school when our organization was told about her, so we had to pick her, and now she's studying well and learning braille, and she's already in senior one this year. We have met different children with different who are from very poor background. We have one boy that we have been sponsoring. He's already now in senior two. We started sponsoring him right from primary five. He comes from a child headed family. The first time I went to that family was in 2020, 2021, when we started the charity, I shed tears because we could see the grave of the Mother, the Father. And there are these three young boys. They have to take care of themselves. They have to farm to eat. So it's really, it's really very difficult for them, and it makes my I feel happy now to see that the boy we talk is doing well and he studies so he can bless the family in future so many of those children who have the potentials. So in our charity, we are not always sponsoring, the children who are blind, others with low vision. We sponsor all categories of children. However, we have inclusion. So we include everybody. We have those ones who are learn that we are sponsoring. We have those one with without any physical challenge that we are also sponsoring.   Michael Hingson ** 13:05 Now, when you say you're sponsoring, you you actually have to contribute to or pay for their education. There isn't public funding available for that. Or how does the process work? When   Acen Kevin ** 13:16 we say we are sponsoring, normally, we we don't really have, like, funding grade available. So we keep on donations that come the general donation. And then we also have sponsor child program where we have an individual people, ah, saying that I want to sponsor a child, and we have them sponsoring each children and our charity. So what is the audience not available? We keep on fund raising. We keep on looking for donation for that. And beside the scholarship program, we also provide materials for education, materials like the Braille machines, the Braille papers to inclusive schools for the blind, and we also provide textbooks to other schools that are not inclusive school. So we provide all those materials which are needed for education,   Michael Hingson ** 14:20 and that's because the traditional schools really don't have the resources to get those materials themselves.   Acen Kevin ** 14:26 Yes, yes.   Michael Hingson ** 14:30 So itinga does that. It provides those materials and gives the support to essentially make for more of an equal education for children with disabilities and others who need your support.   Acen Kevin ** 14:48 Yes, yes, we we do that. We do that. We make sure. Because, like, say, for one example, in Laos, up region. Where our office is located, you find that there's only one two schools which are giving inclusive education to the blind, and those schools you may go there, they have only two brains that are being shared by teachers and children. So we try to support such schools. Then still in Uganda, you will be surprised if you come here that we still have children that study under the tree, that write down on the on the floor. They write down without men, without books. So we also give school supplies when everybody children facili also give like this, provide this, provide computer so that is under materials for education.   Michael Hingson ** 15:54 So I don't know whether this is an easy question to answer. So what does it cost to sponsor a child, maybe for a year in school?   Acen Kevin ** 16:05 What it cost to sponsor a child for a year in school? Um, now it depends, but normally when the we are to Award Scholarship, we normally start from primary school. So that's you. You really say it's a hard question, because it varies. First of all, it depends on the school where the child is going, because every school has different fee structures. And then it also depends on the on the level, level of education of that child, if the child is in secondary school, like in Saint Mary's already right now, those who are sponsoring the child there, I it cost, ah, around that is six, 606 188,000 to sponsor a Child per town, so in a year, it's about two two millions Uganda shilling. And that can be how much in   Acen Kevin ** 17:08 ah, that can be around 600 pounds sports a child in a secondary school. So the lower level pays also lower the higher levels pays. So space.   Michael Hingson ** 17:23 Do you get a lot of resistance from the schools when you talk about, say, bringing a child with a disability into the school? Do they do they welcome? Or is there more resistance because they feel that that kind of a child is not going to be able to get the same level of education or be able to learn as well, or is it pretty welcoming?   Acen Kevin ** 17:49 It's not welcoming, not also the welcoming to children with disability, that is the path, and that is why I'm calling this other school, that inclusive school. So they are few schools that do that. So if you take a child when I was still volunteering with the Mara Uganda education plan as an administrator, before even a teenage charity, we had this one girl that had multiple disability and we took her to a school that was an inclusive so the girl was really performing poorly. Sometimes would even get 05 out of 100 because if she's seated outside under the tree, no one would bother if the bell rings, the rest are running to class. No one will care. But for the inclusive school, they have a system where a student, student, like a student, can help the fellow students. Somebody knows that, okay, he cannot see so I can help him if he's moving in a new environment. You cannot maybe climb here. It is not very accessible. Someone can help you push your wheelchair. So it is really hard. It's not really welcoming. If they allow you to study there, then sometime a child go there just to pass and they get a lot of, I don't know, people that discriminate, like, what are you studying for? You can't be anything you know people can discourage and you find that says children are not really happy, but when they are in a inclusive school, they are happy, and they really fit to the environment. They feel important, and they are able to study in that friendly environment and become very, very powerful people in the society.   Michael Hingson ** 19:55 Okay, I understand what, what made you. Decide to focus so much attention on disadvantaged children or children with disabilities, that had to be a a pretty challenging decision to make, knowing what you would have to face to make it, make it real. So what   Acen Kevin ** 20:17 made me to do that, or what made us to say that the charity should focus in disability inclusions and empowering, especially children who are who are blind and low vision, is because in my society, in my my my community, as I said earlier on, you would see the different in those one who managed to get education and those one who did not. It really hit me hard always when I moved in my town on the street of Kampala and I find somebody who is blind is begging on the street. No, somebody who is having a disability is begging. No. And for them, I feel like the person with disability should even be empowered more than somebody without disability, because if I don't have the disability, I can be able to at least do other things, and you know, but I you really need education, like the blind need education, because right now they are, they Are those assistive technology that help help them to do other things that they it would be hard to do so if you're not educated, it can really be very hard. So I believe that every child has deserved the right to really have education, irrespective of whether your ability, everybody should have education.   Michael Hingson ** 22:10 What kind of successes have you experienced so far, you said that you've sponsored children of all ages. So have you had any who were old enough that they've now finished school and gotten jobs or anything like that? Or do you have any examples of children who you have been able to sponsor, who've been able to show that they can learn like anyone else and become more accepted in their in their schools.   Acen Kevin ** 22:43 Yes, we have those children that already making us feel happy for what we are doing, because we really see how the charity is making an impact, is bringing changes to the life of children eating our charity, Education Foundation, is working in partnership with the Mara Uganda education plan. So a Mara Uganda education plan has been in Uganda, uh, working in Uganda for the last 10 years, since 211 and when we started the partnership in 2021, they entrusted the children that were already their scholarship to our charity. So those ones that were entrusted to us, they already we have those one that already completed their studies. We have been those ones who are already right now. They are teachers, they are midwife. We have been the one who already completed their diploma in clinical medicine, TiVo engineering we are having those one who have completed already like then we have the students after already doing their degree in education like they want to become teachers. So ready. The charity is changing life. And you see that the children who are from a very poor school in the village, because when we take you to sponsor education, we bring you to a school that provide quality education. So there's life change. Children that we took from primary, they already in secondary school, and they're performing extremely well. And with the children with disability for the last three years that we have worked, we have seen changes in them, like there's one girl joy. Joy is completely blind. When she first joined, she was not very confident, but now she's the one who represent all the blind children and low vision and our charity. She has been representing even other NGO outside. She has traveled outside the country to advocate people, people who are who are blind. So it's really very impressive to see our children, even when they are still standing. You see already the life change. You see a child that came when did not even know English at all, even the interview for scholarship we might have done in the local language, but now they speak English, so there's really a life change. And then with children with disability, one big thing that I also see even their families, their families that already they are they were not having support. They were not having love for such children. Some had already been locked then in the house like the people don't know that there's a child with disability in that family, but the moment we get that child and start sponsoring it, change the attitude of parents toward them. They start to say, okay, because they see how now the child is doing well, is being taken care of, so they also start now to support the love increase have seen. So the mindsets of parents are also changing to see them there. And normally we have programs that parents with children with disability meet together. So you find that they start to they start to see, okay, you are seeing you. Somebody who is blind is already a teacher in the school, is a social worker, is a lawyer. So it also gave them, because if somebody has been in the parents who has been deep in rural village, first of all, you started when some, some people even ask us, now, you want to sponsor this one? Don't you think, why don't you take my child? This one, who can see, hm, I've ever been asked that one, I think two parents did that. There's one who said, You take this one and they leave this one, but after they see how these children are catching up, you know? So it's motivating not only to the to the parents and also even the children. The children get to their mind, get to change. They get to know that they are value in the community. Yes, they can become anything they want, if they study, if they are empowered, so they really strive. But I'm so happy to see how this is making a big impact.   Michael Hingson ** 28:06 Well, I can, I can hear it in your voice. I mean, you're, you're clearly very happy and very proud of of the work that you're doing, and absolutely and you're obviously changing attitudes, which is important because we all face that, we face these attitudes, that we're less than other people, and it's so hard to get people to understand that, in fact, we're just as capable as anyone else.   Acen Kevin ** 28:35 Yes, yes, that much I've experienced it. That's very true. Very, very true.   Michael Hingson ** 28:46 So tell me a little bit more about the whole idea of inclusive secondary school project in northern Uganda, and what that is, and how you're involved with that.   Acen Kevin ** 29:02 Oh, yes, the inclusive secondary school in my in the there, there used to be no secondary school which is inclusive. There was no inclusive secondary school in the region, in the whole of Lao sub region in northern Uganda, where our office is created, there were no inclusive secondary school. There were only two inclusive primary school, and in those schools, children were dropping out of school every year, because when you complete your primary then you have nowhere to go. Reason being, the few inclusive schools that we have in Uganda, whole school for the blind, the inclusive school that provide the school that provide inclusive education to the blind, they are far, very, very far from us. And. You don't expect a parents who who is traveling and does not even have a smartphone to coordinate, to even get just admission to go to such school, live a long transport to go to a school which is verified another district in another sub region. Maybe take a child Kampala so shall parents would just giving give it up. And you find that every year these children are dropping out of school, ah, they start going back in the village. And we couldn't imagine it, because for me it's terrible if I imagine somebody who is lying and has no support, no love, no education, no skills to earn a living, I think life can really be very tough for them. So in last year, 2023, eating a charity, Education Foundation and a Mara Uganda education plan took action. We had to say, No, the charity, our charity, is very, very small, but for the love we have for the children, for the heart we have for charity who are like, what can we do? Should we get already exhibit school and we provide them with Braille equipment to support the student? What can we do? Will we manage to build but we started it with faith last year, and so far, we have finished page one of the construction project, which are eight classroom, eight classrooms, administrative offices and the reception. So right now, as I talk, I'm so happy to announce that the school pioneers already with senior one class, and the construction is still going on, but already senior one class is already starting. So next year we shall be having senior this one in senior two, while we had with senior one, then it will continue in senior four, the pioneers will be the first to see the final unit exams. So the school is called Saint Mary's Goretti Secondary School meta. It provide inclusive education to the blind, to those students with low vision. We have a student with celebral palsy. We having students who are learning we are having so it is providing inclusive education to both able and student with disability. And it is amazing. I don't know if you have seen my recent post on LinkedIn, we made a video clip showing how the students are studying together the inclusive classroom. It's amazing. They are studying together in one classroom, and everything is moving fine because they have special needs teachers around, and even those who are not specially teachers, they are learning now to to handle the students. So I'm really so so happy about this school and the initiative already the school, the school is providing not only education, even jobs, teachers who had completed school, they especially teachers, they were able to get jobs in the school The community around now that the construction is also ongoing, and we believe that this is a legacy. We believe that this school will continue for for many years, will be there for many years, to provide inclusive education to the children. I'm happy that the community has embraced it. The community is so happy about the school, Saint Mary's Gore to second with school. I'm being invited in local FM radio stations in northern Uganda many times to talk about the school, so that those those parents who have children with the disability who are not yet aware that already there's an inclusive second school they can to create awareness about the school. I'm happy that even those one who are working with government, they're already advocating they will be having some. Port. And just last town, Uganda Bible Society, they donated to the school the Braille the Braille Bible. We having other po that are donating to us, like the Braille machines. So school has started, and we are really so, so happy about that, and I would like to thank also our partner, Uganda education plan for allowing to support though we call upon everyone who would like to support us so that we can finish we complete the facilities of the school support may not only did the construction, but also equipment. We need those assistive devices. First of all, we have a few brails, and next year, we are expecting other lots of students. So it's impressive, and I'm so joyous every time I just two days ago, a parent who has a child with cerebral palsy, was giving me, telling me how she really struggled to look for schools. She even wanted to leave her job so that she can at least create something, a room to train the so that they see how to train those one their children with disability, because she looked for school, inclusive school, everywhere, she was even trying to call Education Board to ask, Where can I find the inclusive school? So in Uganda, the challenge we are having the secondary school which are inclusive are very, very few. It is more of primary when the child is still young. Yes, you can manage with your child with cerebral palsy, you can manage, but when the child now reach all ordinary level and advanced level, it is hard to find such a school. So this school is really a dream come true for me, for my community. Yes, have   Michael Hingson ** 37:10 any of the students, the older students in the school, gone on to get jobs? Sorry, have you had any any of the students who have been in in the inclusion environment or who have attended classes, have they graduated and gone on and gotten jobs yet? Or have you had that level of success?   Acen Kevin ** 37:35 Okay, yes, yes, I've had the level of success before. That is one of the motivation for like, for example, this where we have constructed this inclusive school, Saint Mary's, goreti. It's actually at next to the primaries to today, inclusive primary school, all net adults that has been providing inclusive education to to the blind for many years. So many students, many people who studied from net adults and go to opportunity, especially those one who are being sponsored by NGO or hard parents that could afford to take them far to study in an inclusive school, maybe in like in Kampala in iganga, they made it. They made it. And one of the all beings of that school, the old boy of Netta girls primary school made it. He studied law, yeah, he studied law from bucharebe, and he's, he's completely blind, but he was appointed as a grade one chief magistrate, so it's the court judge. Wow, very good. And he has never lost the case. In fact, when he was appointed, even up to now, he has inspired so many people, so many journalists interviewed him, and he can do, he is doing his work, which is really a great inspiration to all the those one who are applying and to all of us who are supporting disability inclusions and inclusive education. Uh huh. So we have. I've seen so many. I've seen those one who managed to become teachers. I've seen the those ones who are social workers, very many, and I'm the another example. If you Michael, I've seen your biography. Yes. So thank you. You all inspire us. Well   Michael Hingson ** 39:55 have so you talked about the the young man who became. A magistrate. How about girls? Have any girls gone on to get jobs yet?   Acen Kevin ** 40:06 Correct? Any   Michael Hingson ** 40:07 girls or women gone on to get jobs after going to the schools? Yes,   Acen Kevin ** 40:13 yes. I've seen many girls who become like they are doing managerial questions with NGOs, they are working. That's why I'm saying others are social workers. I've seen others who are teachers, and they are completely they're completely blind, and those one who are advocating, they're working with the organization for for disability to advocate for the rest get education,   Michael Hingson ** 40:46 but you do work with children other than children who are blind. It's not just blind children you work with. Yes, uh huh. Okay. Well, tell me, what has all of this taught you? I mean, this was a major I call it an adventure, but it was a major step to start this foundation and to do the work that you're doing. What have you learned from it?   Acen Kevin ** 41:12 What I've learned from it? Think I've learned that. I've learnt that everybody, like every child, can really do something like what I've learnt is I've seen, if I've seen how education can empower somebody to become great, because I've seen the children becoming sure having talent like recently, we have been we are performing in Paralympic blind football. So you can see the talent that children with disability have. Some of them are debaters or the two poems I've seen them watch. I've seen them play keyboard, play keyboard, become musicians. So it's really inspiring. I've learned a lot. I've learned that what I've learned working with children with disability, doing the work that we are doing with the charity. So I've learned that if we together, if we empowered and embraced accessibility, disability inclusions and inclusive education, we will create equitable society. And I've also learned that children or people with disability can do anything as long as they are empowered. So we would like to empower them to reach their full potential,   Michael Hingson ** 43:13 certainly a pretty important lesson to learn, and I'm glad you have and that you're able to pass that on to to other people? What would you give? What kind of advice would you give to young people who are looking to starting to think about making a difference in their own community? What kind of advice would you want to give them, and when they don't know where to start and so on.   Acen Kevin ** 43:45 Yes, I would advise them to first collaborate with like minded people, like minded people, and then they should also know charity, it really has a lot to do with the heart. So they should try to discover, is it really what they want? Because if you have a mind for business, and then you come with the charity, it may not work well for you. So do you have the heart to give back to the community, so I would advise that they should volunteer with maybe other angel PRI and learnt what happens with the charitable organization. How then if they can also do charity work? So there you keep learning. I, for one, I did not just wake up and start a with eating a charity. I also volunteer with the organization, and in my heart, I really wanted to. I. Really wanted to give back to the community. I wanted to at least sponsor one or two children, and I was praying that God, if you can give me a good job with good salary so that I can do that. But it so happened that I got the favor and the way out to operate, to to have the charity funded, which now it's now making me to more than I could imagine. I wouldn't have been able to sponsor many children that we are we are sponsoring now through the charity without just alone as an individual. So it really has got something to do with the heart. What is your heart? You have the you really, is it what you want to do? Because if you have a business mind, don't try it. So yes, those are the advice I can give to those who want to start the charity. It   Michael Hingson ** 45:59 is good to explore, which is something that you did. You volunteered. You, you thought about it before you really jumped in and started your own foundation. But you also clearly do work in business, because you have an accounting and finance degree. So do you actually have a full time accounting and finance job as well as doing the foundation,   Acen Kevin ** 46:24 no, both are part time accounting and finance doing part time. Then also in the organization, it is I get time to so that I can get time to work, and also my skills in accounting and finance. It has helped me to to run the charity, because we are able to comply to have the annual audited report done, to not have issues with taxations because of the skills. Uh, huh,   Michael Hingson ** 47:00 yes. Well, you, you have, you have been traveling on a pretty interesting and exciting journey. Can you maybe give me some stories, a personal story for you about what you've done and and about this journey that you're on and and how it's changed your life.   Acen Kevin ** 47:21 So my my personal journey, and how my, the life has changed. Um, it's about education, really. I think my mind is stuck to education, because, as I said, as I said it earlier on, I struggle so much through education, having being sponsored by many people because I was coming to my father died when I was young, And I could not manage really go through with education. I have personally dropped out of school at one time, so I understand how it feels for somebody to drop out of school. I've been out of school, so that's really my personal journey, and right now, having achieved what I wanted to achieve, like to have my degree, it's really great. It has changed my life, and I want every, every one that we support, that are struggling, the children, to also experience this life change. And I'm happy for those who already experiencing the life change.   Michael Hingson ** 48:55 Yes, which is great. What are your plans going forward? What do you see is coming next?   Acen Kevin ** 49:04 My plan going forward, I would really want to continue advocating on disability inclusions for accessibility, to make sure that everyone is treated equal, irrespective or regardless of your abilities. So I I see myself, or I see eating a child education foundation, together with the marriage Uganda Education Fund and other partners that will come on board. We see ourselves pushing higher and higher i i come from a community where very many people are illiterate. They want to see that many people have education. They are, they are. Able to, you know, to earn a living by themselves, to support others. So yes, and we also hope to complete the construction of Saint Mary's Goretti, so that we have also this, the inclusive school going that can help the children from all level to a level, senior one to senior six. Well,   Michael Hingson ** 50:31 let me ask you this, if I might um, what? What would you like? What would you like the people who are listening to our podcast today. What would you like them to learn? And what kind of message do you want them to take away from this?   Acen Kevin ** 50:48 Yes, to those who are watching us, to those who are listening to the podcast right now. I I would like them to to know that every child, irregardless of their ability, they have the potential to learn. When they are empowered, they can learn so I call upon all of them. I call upon everybody who is listening to to us right now that they should contact eating a church Education Foundation, or a marriage a Mara Uganda education plan. How there's our website on the bio below, you can support us by through donation, we call upon other organization to partner with us, because together, we can achieve together we can create a critical society. Together we can support disability inclusions. Let's support disability inclusion. Let's support the children. So yes, that is what I would like them to do to help us and the child. We also have a child program.   Michael Hingson ** 52:15 Well, if people want to reach out, how do they do that? When   Acen Kevin ** 52:20 people want to reach out to us, they can reach out on our website, www.icef-itinga.org It is down in in our bio. Then you can also reach out to us through LinkedIn. You can find us on Facebook. You can find us on Tiktok. You just have to type on Instagram. Also you just type eating charity, Education Foundation. Then you can reach out to us. You will be able to find our office address there. You will be able to find our telephone contacts, yes, feel free to visit us. Feel free to support. I call upon your support for our charity mission together, let us support disability inclusions so   Michael Hingson ** 53:15 people can email you. I know it's in your biography they can reach you. At, Kevin, k, e, v, I N, at, I C, E, F, dash, I T, I N, G, A, dot, O, R, G, and so I hope people will reach out to you, and   Acen Kevin ** 53:37 I look forward to that right   Michael Hingson ** 53:39 now. I hope that they will support and I hope that they will also take the message back to their communities, because clearly you are setting a very positive example that people should follow. And I and I'm glad that we did have the opportunity to finally get together and do this today. Um, it's been a while in coming. You're 10 hours ahead of us, so that makes it kind of fun to be able to schedule a time. But we did make it work, didn't we?   Acen Kevin ** 54:10 Yes, yes, we did. Thank you so much for the opportunity, for giving me this great opportunity to speak to the whole world about what we are doing at English and Education Foundation to tell them that, yes, we are supporting children who are blind, the dose with low vision, yes, and we are having the construction of an inclusive school going on. Lira,   Michael Hingson ** 54:39 well, I appreciate you saying that and that you took the time to come on and and be with us today, and I want to thank all of you for listening and watching us on YouTube or wherever you're seeing our podcast or hearing our podcast, mostly hearing, I'd love to hear from you if you have ideas for guests and attend you as well, if you know anyone. Else who ought to be a guest on unstoppable mindset. Please let us know I am easily reachable at Michael M, I C, H, A, E, L, H i at accessibe, A, C, C, E, S, S, I, B, e.com, you can also go to our podcast page, which is w, w, w, dot Michael hingson.com/podcast, and Michael Hinkson is m, I C, H, A, E, L, H, I N, G, S O n.com/podcast, so we appreciate your listening and whoever you are, wherever you may be, please give us a five star rating on the podcast. What we do here is try to show people who are unstoppable and and we want everyone to realize that they can be more unstoppable than they think they can. And I think that Acen, Kevin is definitely showing that, and I hope that you'll all take that very much to heart. So give us a five star rating. We appreciate it. And again Acen, one last time, I'd like to thank you for being here with us and taking your time this afternoon.   Acen Kevin ** 56:03 You're welcome. Thank you so much. It's a pleasure. It's been a pleasure being the podcast.   **Michael Hingson ** 56:13   You have been listening to the Unstoppable Mindset podcast. Thanks for dropping by. I hope that you'll join us again next week, and in future weeks for upcoming episodes. To subscribe to our podcast and to learn about upcoming episodes, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com slash podcast. Michael Hingson is spelled m i c h a e l h i n g s o n. While you're on the site., please use the form there to recommend people who we ought to interview in upcoming editions of the show. And also, we ask you and urge you to invite your friends to join us in the future. If you know of any one or any organization needing a speaker for an event, please email me at speaker at Michael hingson.com. I appreciate it very much. To learn more about the concept of blinded by fear, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com forward slash blinded by fear and while you're there, feel free to pick up a copy of my free eBook entitled blinded by fear. The unstoppable mindset podcast is provided by access cast an initiative of accessiBe and is sponsored by accessiBe. Please visit www.accessibe.com . AccessiBe is spelled a c c e s s i b e. There you can learn all about how you can make your website inclusive for all persons with disabilities and how you can help make the internet fully inclusive by 2025. Thanks again for Listening. Please come back and visit us again next week.

In this episode of the CEDIA Podcast, host Walt Zerbe, senior director of technology and standards, explores the latest advancements in video technology with guest Michael Heiss, also known as "Captain Video." They discuss key topics from CES, including HDMI 2.2 and the Lip Latency Indication Protocol (LIP). Michael explains the significant improvements in HDMI 2.2, such as increased bandwidth for higher resolutions and frame rates. They also delve into AI's role in enhancing picture quality and the importance of understanding new technologies. The episode emphasizes continuous learning and staying informed about industry trends.   Timestamps by PodSqueezeIntroduction to the Podcast (00:00:01)   Lip Latency Indication Protocol Overview (00:00:07)   An explanation of the Lift Latency Indication Protocol and its purpose in reducing sync errors. Introduction of Hosts (00:00:57)   Walt Kirby introduces himself and guest Michael Heiss, highlighting their excitement about CES. Reflections on CES (00:01:18)   Discussion of the overwhelming amount of information and advancements in video technology at CES. Consumer Insights on Video Technology (00:02:16)   Michael shares insights on consumer interest in new video technology and potential purchasing recommendations. HDMI 2.2 Announcement (00:03:04)   Discussion begins on HDMI 2.2, its improvements over HDMI 2.1, and implications for video transport. Technical Specifications of HDMI 2.2 (00:03:36)   Detailed comparison of HDMI 2.2's speed and capabilities versus previous standards and DisplayPort. Market Impact of HDMI 2.2 (00:05:30)   Exploration of HDMI 2.2's relevance in consumer markets and its potential applications in various industries. Challenges in HDMI 2.2 Adoption (00:06:06)   Discussion on the timeline and challenges of implementing HDMI 2.2 technology in products. Future of Video Technology (00:08:24)   Considerations for future-proofing installations with HDMI 2.2 and the importance of fiber optics. Introduction to Lift Latency Indication Protocol (00:09:35)   A deeper dive into the Lift Latency Indication Protocol and its role in video formatting. Importance of Sync in Video Processing (00:11:12)   Discussion of lip sync issues and the complexities of latency in video and audio processing. Complications of Latency Perception (00:13:05)   Insights on how latency affects viewer experience, particularly in music and video synchronization. Humorous Take on Lip Sync (00:14:11)   A lighthearted exchange about the naming of the Lift Latency Indication Protocol and its acronym. AI and Lip Sync Issues (00:15:08)   Discussion on the potential for metadata-based lip sync solutions in video technology. AI Applications at CES (00:16:35)   Insights into the emergence of AI applications showcased at CES, particularly by LG and Samsung. AI in Video Quality (00:18:40)   Exploration of AI's role in enhancing video quality through background adjustments. Predictive AI and Daily Life (00:19:45)   Discussion on the implications of predictive AI in everyday tasks and its potential downsides. AI Dependency and Privacy (00:22:46)   Concerns about AI dependency, especially during power outages and its implications for privacy. Samsung Galaxy Phone Controversy (00:24:10)   Controversy surrounding Samsung's moon photography feature and its implications for AI in consumer devices. Leading TV Brands at CES (00:25:39)   Overview of leading TV brands showcased at CES, including LG, Samsung, Hisense, and TCL. AI Engines in TV Brands (00:27:54)   Comparison of AI engines used by major TV brands and their implications for functionality. Sensors and AI Functionality (00:29:16)   Discussion on the importance of sensors and microphones in smart TVs for AI functionality. Introduction to TV Technology Trends (00:30:29)   Discussion on the shift in TV manufacturing and the rise of connected TV systems. Roku's Versatility in TV Market (00:31:27)   Roku's functionality as a universal platform for various TV brands is highlighted. Operating Systems in TVs (00:31:45)   Exploration of different operating systems like webOS, Tizen, and Roku in modern TVs. Consumer Awareness of TV Apps (00:33:03)   Importance of understanding app availability on connected TVs for consumers. TiVo's Marketing Strategy (00:34:21)   TiVo's new approach to marketing its operating system through partnerships with TV brands. Sharp's Return to the US Market (00:35:02)   Discussion on Sharp's comeback in the TV market with a focus on its partnership with TiVo. Trends in TV Sizes (00:37:40)   Analysis of the increasing size of TVs and the emerging market preferences. Direct View LEDs and Market Dynamics (00:39:25)   Insight into the competition and advancements in direct view LED technology at CES. Challenges of Large TV Installations (00:42:47)   Addressing the logistical challenges of installing large TVs in homes. Brightness Improvements in OLEDs (00:44:11)   Overview of advancements in OLED technology and brightness enhancements from LG and Panasonic. Panasonic's OLED Innovations (00:47:03)   Panasonic introduces a thermal cooling process for their OLED panels, performing well in high ambient light. Hisense's RGB Mini LED Announcement (00:48:01)   Hisense surprises with RGB mini LEDs, enhancing brightness and contrast without traditional color filters. Hisense and TCL Brand Evolution (00:49:10)   Discussion on Hisense and TCL's rise to first-tier brands, emphasizing their technological advancements. Trends in Display Technology (00:50:30)   Exploration of non-reflective displays and advancements in gaming-focused frame rates. Samsung's Discrete RGB Micro LED (00:53:00)   Samsung reveals a discrete RGB micro LED backlit set, promising enhanced brightness and contrast. Upcoming Display Technologies at Expo (00:54:01)   Anticipation of new display technologies set to debut at the upcoming Expo. AI and Home Control Integration (00:55:16)   Samsung promotes smart TV features that integrate AI for seamless home control. HDR10+ and Content Compatibility (00:57:46)   HDR10+ press conference highlights its integration with Amazon Prime and other streaming services. Next Gen TV Developments (00:59:43)   Next Gen TV advancements discussed, including cheaper dongles and the new zapper box for ATSC 3.0. Introduction to Marketing Strategies (01:01:58)   Discussion on the importance of marketing in the tech industry and venue changes at CES. TV Innovations with Suction Cups (01:02:28)   Overview of a TV with suction cups for mounting, highlighting its features and market presence. Trends in Monitor Sizes (01:03:40)   Exploration of the trend towards larger, curved monitors for home and office use. Advancements in Audio Technology (01:05:30)   Discussion on new audio technologies, including hearing aids and immersive audio experiences. Hearing Aid Innovations (01:06:54)   Introduction of a new over-the-counter hearing aid with AI language translation features. Samsung's Eclipse Technology (01:08:16)   Overview of Samsung's immersive audio technology and its implications for soundbars and TVs. Gyro-Sensing Soundbars (01:10:12)   Description of a soundbar that adjusts audio output based on its mounting position. Audio Q's Dolby Atmos Decoder (01:12:04)   Introduction of a product combining Dolby Atmos decoding with power line communication. Final Thoughts on Technology (01:13:31)   Discussion on the importance of matching technology with client needs and standards in education. Wrap-Up and Future Events (01:14:45)   Conclusion of the podcast and mention of upcoming events in Barcelona. Introduction to Press Releases (01:16:21)   Discussion on the volume of press releases and their significance in staying informed about industry developments. Acronyms and Abbreviations Course (01:17:40)   Overview of a course aimed at clarifying common acronyms used in the video technology industry. Event Dates Announcement (01:17:57)   Mention of the upcoming event dates, February 4th to 6th, and the importance of continuous learning. Closing Remarks and Philosophy (01:18:19)   Reflection on the importance of asking questions and keeping an open mind in discussions and learning. Final Thank You (01:18:54)   Gratitude expressed to listeners, signaling the end of the podcast episode.

Have you ever wondered if you could get legal compensation for your exposure to toxic mold?Do you feel like your toxic mold exposure situation might be due to the negligence of another party, but don't know any lawyers willing to represent you in your mold case?If you said yes to either of these, then you don't want to miss today's episode!Wrapping up our recent mini-series on mold, today I am so excited to introduce to you lawyer and founder of JustWell Law - Kristina Baehr.Kristina is a national trial lawyer who represents sick people against the companies that made them sick. She founded her law firm, Just Well Law, to help clients recover financially so that they can rebuild their health and their lives. Kristina is used to high profile, high stakes litigation. At a national trial firm, she represented plaintiffs in bet-the-company cases like Trilogy against SAP, the Medical University of South Carolina against AstraZeneca, Ericsson against Samsung, and TiVo against Comcast. These cases resulted in over $1 billion in revenue for their clients. And from 2015-2019, she was honored by her peers as a Texas Rising Star among lawyers.After tragedy hit her own family, she founded Just Well Law to help other families in crisis. She built the personal injury firm she couldn't find for her own family. Health and wellness require financial resources, and Kristina is relentless in pursuing the maximum recovery for her clients because she has been there too. ​If you've been wracking your brain wondering how or if you could ever get legal representation around your toxic mold exposure - then this episode is for you!TIMESTAMPS00:00 Introduction to Legal Compensation for Toxic Mold Exposure 00:21 Meet Christina Baer: Advocate for Mold Victims 03:24 Christina's Personal Mold Exposure Story 06:43 Challenges in Mold Litigation 09:50 The Turning Point: Science and Legal Victories 16:11 Broader Legal Battles Beyond Mold 23:32 Evaluating Your Mold Case 27:00 The Cost of Staying in a Toxic Home 27:22 Nationwide Legal Support for Mold Cases 28:59 The Importance of Differential Diagnosis 30:04 Investing in Health and Recovery 33:01 The Role of Empathy and Support 36:30 Raising Awareness About Mold Illness 43:50 Legal Battles Against Universities 51:12 Final Thoughts and ResourcesEPISODES MENTIONED:Resiliency Radio Podcast with Dr. Jill Carnahan: Ep. 201// Winning Legal Cases for Clients Harmed By Toxic Mold, with Kristina Baehr222// 5 Signs of Hidden Mold, with Brian Karr (YesWeInspect)CONNECT WITH THE GUEST:Follow JustWell Law on InstagramVisit their WebsiteStart a Claim to see if you have a mold case!WORK WITH ME TO HEAL YOUR GUT + MOLD:Option #1)

In Episode 679 of Grumpy Old Geeks, titled "Set Sanity to Zero," Brian and Jason discuss the latest developments in tech, culture, and innovation. The episode opens with a look at Watch Duty, a wildfire-tracking app that has surpassed ChatGPT to take the top spot on the App Store amid California's wildfire crisis. They also cover local news, including the arrest of an arson suspect in Woodland Hills, CA, and tech entrepreneur Kevin Rose's home in the Palisades that is making headlines.The hosts delve into major tech stories that are dominating the news cycle. Former MoviePass CEO Ted Farnsworth pleads guilty to defrauding investors, marking the latest chapter in the infamous saga of the subscription service. Meanwhile, the UK takes bold action with new legislation criminalizing the creation and distribution of sexually explicit deepfakes. Meta finds itself at the center of multiple controversies, from appointing UFC CEO Dana White to its board to removing fact-checkers in favor of community-driven moderation, a decision that sparks backlash and leads to significant user departures from Facebook and Instagram. The darker side of tech is also examined, with reports of Meta Smart Glasses being used in a terror attack and generative AI contributing to a Tesla Cybertruck explosion.The podcast also explores groundbreaking applications of AI and its potential. An innovative method from a Reddit user for automating 1,000 job applications while asleep catches attention, along with discussions about the Getty Images and Shutterstock merger aimed at addressing AI's disruption in the stock photography industry. E-commerce trends take center stage, with Salesforce data indicating AI-driven sales growth during the holiday season, despite increasing return rates. The episode also discusses Tesla's “Actual Smart Summon” crashes currently under federal investigation and OpenAI's rapid response to a developer creating AI-powered gun turrets.In conclusion, Brian and Jason provide entertainment and tech recommendations. Their streaming choices include "Silo," "The Traitors UK" Season 3, and "Shrinking," while gaming highlights showcase the Nintendo Switch and "Super Mario Bros. Wonder." They also feature apps like ChowNow and TiVo's comeback as an OS on Sharp TVs. For book enthusiasts, the "At the Library" segment presents a variety of daily meditations and sci-fi titles. With its rich mix of tech insights, current events, and cultural commentary, Episode 679 is essential listening for anyone interested in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.Sponsors:DeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordShow notes at https://gog.show/679FOLLOW UPWatch DutyWatch Duty surpasses ChatGPT as top free app on App Store as California fires spreadKevin Rose Palisades HouseArson suspect arrested in Woodland Hills near Kenneth FireIN THE NEWSMoviePass Ex-CEO Pleads Guilty to Defrauding InvestorsNew UK law would criminalize creating sexually explicit deepfakesMeta adds UFC CEO and Trump booster Dana White to its boardMeta Cracks Down on Internal Dissent Against Appointment of UFC's Dana White to BoardMeta Smart Glasses First Big Cultural Moment Is a Terror AttackMan who exploded Tesla Cybertruck outside Trump hotel in Las Vegas used generative AI, police sayMan Applies To 1,000 Jobs Using AI While Asleep, Wakes To Surprising OutcomesFacebook Caught Hosting AI-Powered HitlerMark Zuckerberg tells Fox News that Meta will "get rid of fact checkers" in latest appeal to TrumpGoogle searches for deleting Facebook, Instagram explode after Meta ends fact-checkingMeta's Fact-Checking Partners Say They Were ‘Blindsided' by Decision to Axe ThemFeds investigate Tesla's ‘Actual Smart Summon' after several crashesOpenAI Shuts Down Developer Who Made AI-Powered Gun TurretGetty Images, Shutterstock gear up for AI challenge with $3.7 billion mergerAI-influenced shopping boosts online holiday sales, Salesforce data showsMEDIA CANDYSiloThe Traitors UK S3Dexter Original SinShrinkingSex EducationThe Mayfair WitchesCunk on LifeTetrisPlease Don't Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy MountainAPPS & DOODADSChowNowApple promises software update to address Apple Intelligence notification summary complaintsTiVo OS is coming to the US on Sharp TVsNintendo SwitchSuper Mario Bros WonderAT THE LIBRARY3zekiel by Peter CawdronThe Daily Pressfield: A Teaching a Day from the Author of the War of Art by Steven PressfieldA Calendar of Wisdom: Daily Thoughts to Nourish the Soul by Leo TolstoyThe Daily Laws: 366 Meditations on Power, Seduction, Mastery, Strategy, and Human Nature by Robert GreeneThe Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living by Ryan Holiday365 Tao: Daily MeditationsThe Daily Drucker: 366 Days of Insight and Motivation for Getting the Right Things Done by Peter F. DruckerAround the Year with Emmet Fox: A Book of Daily Readings by Emmet FoxThe Maxwell Daily Reader: 365 Days of Insight to Develop the Leader Within You and Influence Those Around You by John C. MaxwellThe Elements of Humor: The Tools of Comedy that Make You Funnier, Happier, and Better Looking by Scott DikkersA Conventional Boy: A Laundry Files Novel (Laundry Files, 13)The Laundry Files: an updated chronologyTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the BuildingSkeleton CrewGame of Thrones Star Reportedly Set to Replace Ray Stevenson in Star Wars: Ahsoka Season 2Siri “unintentionally” recorded private convos; Apple agrees to pay $95MFlexible Flyer Metal Runner Sled. Steel & Wood Steering Snow SliderDave Bittner shares his President Carter storySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's show we cover the Home Theater announcements that we found interesting. It's not an exhaustive list of what was shown but things we wanted to share with you. We also read your email and take a look at the week's news. News: Disney to Merge Hulu + Live TV With Fubo, Taking on YouTube TV and Ending Venu Lawsuit RadioShack Returns To U.S. As Product Brand Roku tallies 90 million streaming households at start of 2025 Other: Samsung and Google's Eclipsa Audio is here to take on Dolby Atmos CES 2025 Up until now, CES has primarily showcased laptops, gaming, TVs, and smart home technology, excelling in these traditional areas. However, this year's event has shifted its focus to include some emerging, trendier categories. We are seeing AI announcements across the board and numerous innovative concepts aimed at making augmented reality more accessible. On this week's show we cover the Home Theater announcements that we found interesting. It's not an exhaustive list of what was shown but things we wanted to share with you. Next week, since we record before CES closes, we'll look at products that won awards as well as any announcements you may have found interesting as shared with us. RCA introduces two new NEXTGEN TV models in 55" and 65" sizes -  The 65” RCA NEXTGEN TV up to 1500 nits of peak brightness, 664-zone Mini-LED QLED, suggested retail price of $949.99.  The 55” RCA NEXTGEN TV up to 1500 nits of peak brightness, 240-zone Mini-LED QLED suggested retail price of $699.99.  New for 2025 is the attractive RCA ANTD8E, an amplified, multi-directional indoor antenna covered in a high-tech fabric with a diamond shape design. Equipped with SMARTBOOST advanced technology and dual-stage amplification and built-in 4G/LTE/5G filter to improve reception, the ANTD8E can be positioned on its included stand or mounted on a wall and includes nine feet of coaxial cable to connect to the TV at a suggested retail price of $59.99. A full line-up of RCA Outdoor Televisions is also planned in a range of screen sizes and price points, with a “spirit of wilderness” and Mossy Oak camouflage design. Built with a sleek, modern design in a weatherproof and durable dust-free case, RCA Outdoor TVs are designed to work in extreme temperatures – from minus 22 degrees to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. Our Outdoor RCA line includes an exceptionally bright 2000 nit display for crystal-clear viewing even in bright sunlight. Full Press Release RCA Outdoor TV  43-inch ($3,999, suggested retail price), 55-inch ($4,999, suggested retail price)  65-inch ($5,999, suggested retail price) 75-inch ($7,999, suggested retail price). Google Home hubs now work locally with Matter This week, Google announced the integration of Home Runtime into its Google Home hubs, allowing for full local control of Matter devices. With this update, Google Nest hubs, speakers, Chromecasts, Google TV devices running Android 14, and certain LG TVs can now connect to and manage Matter devices locally. This change enhances reliability, privacy, and reduces latency for users controlling their devices at home. Notably, even without internet access, Google Assistant will still be able to operate functions like turning on lights, marking a significant shift from the platform's previous reliance on cloud connectivity. Google Blog Post TCL's 2025 mini-LED TVs for 2025 The Super High Energy mini-LED chip may increase brightness by 53% TCL has made enhancements to its mini-LED backlight design that will result in less blooming or “halo” artifacts where light areas seep into dark areas – a 67% reduction, according to the company. 50- to 98-inch screen sizes, coming to the US in early 2025 Pricing for TCL's QM6K Series is as follows: 50-inch: $749.99  55-inch: $799.99  65-inch $999.99 75-inch: $1,299.99  85-inch: $1,999.99 98-inch: $3,499.99 The 65, 75 and 85-inch QM6K models are available now for preorder at TCL's website. More information from TCL LG G5, C5 and M5 OLED TV LG also announced AI-based features that seek to improve picture, audio and the overall user experience. LG is officially unveiling the LG G5 OLED, the C5 OLED and M5 OLED along with lots of AI upgrades, Here's what we know so far. The G5 will be available in the following sizes: 48, 55, 65, 77, 83 and 97 inches. The M5 is essentially a G5 with wireless connectivity. All of the TV's inputs are located on a separate box (dubbed the Zero Connect Box on the LG M4) which then wirelessly transmits audio and video to the M5's OLED display. The C4 will be available in 42-, 48-, 55-, 65-, 77- and 83-inch models. Full Press Release HDMI 2.2 Announced HDMI 2.2 has been announced at CES 2025. The new specification comes with 96Gbps bandwidth — double what you get with HDMI 2.1. It will be available in a new Ultra96 HDMI Cable. It features next-gen HDMI Fixed Rate Link tech to provide “optimal audio and video.” More impressively, it enables 4K resolution with up to 480 frames per second (fps), and up to 12K at 120 fps. Full Press Release HISENSE MARKS NEW ERA OF DISPLAY INNOVATION WITH ITS FIRST CONSUMER MICROLED AT CES 2025 Hisense unveiled the 136MX MicroLED, the brand's first consumer-ready MicroLED display. This launch marks a pivotal milestone in making cutting-edge display technology more accessible to households, catering to the growing demand for larger, more immersive screens without compromising durability or long-term performance. By eliminating traditional backlight limitations, 136MX delivers precise contrast, lifelike colors, and a viewing experience that sets a new standard for the industry. By combining MicroLED display technology with its R&D expertise, Hisense is once again redefining the possibilities of home entertainment. Powered by Hisense's flagship Hi-View AI Engine X chipset, the 136MX optimizes every frame with its AI-based algorithms, enabling precise color conversion, dynamic 3D color management, and rich display details. Black nanocrystals further enhance performance by reducing reflectivity to ensure exceptional clarity even in well-lit spaces. With brightness levels reaching up to 10,000 nits and a color gamut covering 95% of the BT.2020 color space, Hisense's 136MX delivers vivid, true-to-life colors, setting a new benchmark for home entertainment displays. Full Press Release Technics launched the EAH-AZ100 Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds Reference Class True Wireless Earbuds with Dolby Atmos and noise cancelling, The AZ100 earbuds feature, reference-quality high-resolution audio; advanced, industry-leading noise cancellation; and improved JustMyVoice™ technology to keep calls clear. Connects to 3 devices simultaneously. Launching in sleek Silver and Black with its signature stylish ergonomic design, Technics EAH-AZ100 Earbuds will be available for purchase online at Technics.com and at trusted retailers starting today, January 7, with a suggested retail price of $299.99. More info TiVo OS Will Be Launching in the U.S. Market With Sharp TiVo announced that it will be entering the U.S. television market with Sharp Home Electronics Company of America. The Sharp Smart TV Powered by TiVo will be the first television in the series to be made available to American consumers, as soon as February 2025. Boasting a beautiful Ultra High Definition and High Dynamic Range 55” QLED screen, plus Dolby Atmos®, and 3 HDMI ports, it will be a smart TV that reinforces Sharp's reputation for quality. In Europe, TiVo last year launched a range of Sharp models in the UK starting at the equivalent of $372 USD. Sharp's consumer website currently lists four TiVo-powered TV models/screen sizes (43 inches, 50 inches, 55 inches and 70 inches). Sharp also offers TVs powered by other platforms, including operating systems from Roku and Google. Nothing Earth Shattering in the way of Hardware from Sony Sony's press conference did not showcase exciting new hardware announcements. Instead, the emphasis was primarily on the entertainment aspect of their business. Valerion Unveils VisionMaster Max Valerion debuted their VisionMaster MAX, a cinematic-grade home theater projector. Its Kickstarter project raised over $10.7 million and became the highest-funded projector in crowdfunding history.  Featuring the OpticFlex Lens System for customizable viewing. The specifications include: 3000 ISO lumens, a 15,000:1 contrast ratio, and a 110% Rec. 2020 color gamut. The VisionMaster MAX promises stunning image quality and a theater-like experience, projecting up to 300 inches. Enhanced with Dolby Vision, IMAX Enhanced, and other advanced features, this flagship model sets a new standard for home entertainment technology. Additionally, its innovative external lens offers increased versatility, further enhancing the viewing experience. The VisionMaster Series is now available for global pre-order on Valerion's website, with deliveries starting February 2025. VisionMaster Max $3,999 USD, VisionMaster Pro2 & Pro $2,499 USD, and VisionMaster Plus2 & Plus $1,499 USD Samsung Brings Samsung Vision AI to Its Widest Lineup Yet Samsung is ushering in a new era of AI-driven screen technology, with Samsung Vision AI features now integrated across its most comprehensive lineup ever — including Neo QLED, OLED and QLED, and The Frame models. This expansion underscores Samsung's commitment to bringing intelligent, adaptive screens to more users, redefining what's possible in home entertainment and smart living. At the forefront of this innovation is the Neo QLED 8K QN990F, Samsung's most advanced TV to date, designed to deliver unparalleled performance, sleek design and smarter AI-driven experiences. Powered by the latest NQ8 AI Gen3 Processor, the TV leverages a suite of on-device AI features to enhance picture quality, sound clarity and overall viewing experience: 8K AI Upscaling Pro: Elevates lower-resolution content up to stunning 8K quality, ensuring incredible detail and clarity in every frame. Auto HDR Remastering Pro: Analyzes content frame by frame, applying scene-adaptive color expansion for lifelike visuals and vibrant colors, even in dark scenes. Adaptive Sound Pro: Uses AI to separate and optimize sound components like speech, music and sound effects, delivering clear, balanced audio. Color Booster Pro: Enriches color expression with AI-driven scene analysis and enhanced  image processing for each frame. AI Mode: Adaptively optimizes picture and sound leveraging AI-based content recognition  and TV area analysis for an optimal viewing experience in any setting. Samsung also unveiled The Premiere 5, the industry's first interactive triple-laser ultra-short-throw (UST) projector. Designed to redefine home entertainment, The Premiere 5 introduces an interactive touch feature, allowing users to engage directly with the screen. This innovation seamlessly combines high-quality projection with versatile functionality, featuring Samsung LightWARP technology to project images onto everyday objects for creative and immersive experiences. No Specs are available as this may be one of those items that never sees the light of day. Full Press Release  Displace TV: The World's First Truly Wireless 4K TVs with All-in-One Entertainment and Productivity Hubs Displace is bringing all-in-one entertainment and productivity hubs that go beyond the traditional TV experience. Both models offer a sleek, cable-free design, and revolutionary new features powered by Displace OS, an all-new AI Agent-driven operating system that will redefine how Displace users interact with their TVs and perform tasks easier than ever before. These next-generation 4K TVs are powered by two long-lasting, rechargeable Li-ion batteries, ensuring a truly wireless experience that eliminates the clutter of cords and cables. Consumers can either mount the TV on a wall in just 10 seconds without tools or drilling or place it on a table using the all-new concealed push-to-pop legs. All the Displace TV screens are OLED. Displace Pro and Basic are both offered in 55-inch and 27-inch models. Exclusively during CES, all Displace models will be available for pre-order for $1,000 off the original price. During CES, Pro models can be ordered in 55-inch for $4,999 or 27-inch for $2,999, while the Basic models will be available in 55-inch for $2,499 or 27-inch for $1,499. All models are available for pre-order with shipping expected to begin March 28, 2025. Full Press Release 

Getting to our classes.Based on a post by FinalStand, in 13 parts. Listen to the ► Podcast at Explicit Novels. Getting to our classes was eased by us being late. My teacher declared me 'tardy' despite my protestations that my brother had just been taken to the hospital. A few of my Black classmates snickered over that. 'Alexander' was given a 'pass' by his far more understanding teacher. That teacher was one of the 'haters', but Mikhail figured that hospitalizing one of us had gone way overboard in that man's eyes.That wasn't the only sign that things had changed. Darius and his crowd were prepping for the next attack. The rest of the school; they sensed something terrible was on the horizon. Our lack of response was a warning sign all its own. We weren't cringing, blustering, or glowering. Vicky said we were the 'eye of the storm' and wanted in on whatever vengeance we had planned.We told her we didn't have one. At lunch, Taliyah was torn up at first because she thought that Darius and Rashaan had Alexander beaten up over her. They'd even taunted her about it between classes, warning that worse was in store for her and Brandy at lunch. Those two women had gotten a measure of revenge by changing the location of the Cheer Squads 'lunch meeting'/gangbang, then forgotten to inform the football team of the change of venue.Darius came looking shortly after the fact. The other eight members of the Cheer Squad looked perplexed. Had Brandy not humiliated him (by dissing his BBC), he might have not decided to assume the whole group was in on this policy of denial.‘Brandy, get your ass over here,' Darius seethed.‘Taliyah, you had best correct yourself,' Rashaan added. A few other players who pretended they were BF/GF with a cheerleader added to the commotion.‘No,' I stood up and confronted him. He was looking for something more. 'Alexander' took up a position on the far side of the cheerleaders. People were clearing out the space between the football team and us.‘Brandy,' Darius stressed his authority. She was wavering. Fortunately for us, Taliyah was not.‘Back off you Mother-fucker,' she screamed.‘Taliyah?' Rashaan mumbled.‘You really want to be on their side?' Darius' eyes narrowed.‘I want to kick you and your fellow cowards' asses,' she seethed. Darius shot Rashaan a mocking glance, shaming him. His 'woman' was getting mouthy.‘Taliyah,' Rashaan asserted himself. ‘You are asking for a world of trouble.'‘What?' she spat back. ‘How many bruthas are you going to bring when you try to shut me up; cause I know you aren't man enough to do it yourself.'‘Bitch,' he stepped forward. I tried to move to her, Darius interposed himself. Mikhail had three guys on his flank so any move he made would put him in a nest of trouble.Rashaan grabbed her arm. My past twenty-four hours around that girl taught me that was a mistake. I didn't know if Rashaan was slower than Mikhail, or just caught off guard. Her slap resonated across the cafeteria. Before he could respond, she put a knee into his crotch, doubling him over. Multiply guys winced at the power of that nutting. Rashaan hissed like a punctured balloon and slowly slumped to the ground.Darius decided that was the indicator for the final showdown and settling of accounts. Kaelyne kicking a chair into his path was unexpected by both of us. Darius was far quicker on his feet than Rashaan. He was able to jump back before he could get clipped. The mob was so dependent on Darius for leadership that they froze up when his charge was truncated. Kaelyne had saved a whole lot of people a whole lot of pain.‘I'm done with you,' Taliyah sneered. ‘If you had wanted to be a real man, you would have fought Mikhail one on one, not like a pack of chicken shit jocks.' There was another hush and a 'no she didn't'.‘Brandy, get the fuck over here,' Darius glowered.‘I'm; I'm with Taliyah,' her voice wavered. ‘What you did was wrong. I thought you would be more of a man about this.'‘You'll pay for that,' he promised.‘Shut up. You are done. Brandy is with me now,' I challenged him. ‘I once offered you the opportunity to settle this like a man. You declined and now the whole school sees you for what you really are, a big, Black narcissist who doesn't care about anyone, but yourself.'There was a third pause in the murmuring.‘I don't think the football team knows what a narcissist is?' Kaelyne said in a low voice. Brandy let out a hysterical giggle.‘Samsonov!' the coach bellowed from across the room.‘Which one of us?' 'Alexander' shot back.‘Both of you,' he growled.‘No,' we said in unison.‘What?' he blustered. We were screwed no matter what we did.‘I need them to move some things in my class,' Ms. Blanchard spoke up from behind him. Alexander, the real Alexander, would have been so proud.‘Get some other boys,' Coach spun on her. She began to wilt.‘Coach Thomas,' a voice behind Ms. Blanchard emoted softly, ‘you are getting on my last damn nerve.'‘This ain't your school, Fonteneau,' he turned on Mom.‘My boy says you were one of the people that beat him up. I'm here to let the Principal know. On a personal level, I'm suing you and the school for what happened.'‘I didn't do nothing,' he groused.‘Funny, the only one who claims to have witnessed my son's beating is my son,' she purred like a Mamma Tiger stalking her prey. ‘I may be a Samsonov now, but I still have all that Fonteneau fortune to fight that court battle with. One more mishap for my other two boys, I'm going to have the best law firm in Little Rock crawl so far up your rectum that they know what you are going to eat before you bite into it.'‘I'm not afraid of you,' he puffed himself up.‘Really? None of these cases will take place in Davis County, Tobias (the coach). The previous school principal assaulted me, I have three sworn complaints against the Kingston PD filed with the Arkansas State Police, and a lawsuit pending against this school and the school board. A change of jurisdiction is a given. I'll be dragging you down to Little Rock to settle this mess.'‘You are lying,' he gulped.‘Test me,' Mom sizzled. I still couldn't see her over the crowd, but I knew those steely eyes were boring thru his soul. He might not have been guilty of beating up Alexander yet he was guilty of so much more that he was already rotten to the core. Everyone knew he had given his tacit approval for the beating of a student theoretically under his care.As an educator, he was sworn to better the lives of his charges, not use them for his own aggrandizement. No matter how entitled he felt he was, he knew the outside world wouldn't see it that way. Worse, he knew, deep down, he could have done so much better for his students. Sportsmanship, grades and fraternity were all his to dispense. Instead;‘Darius,' Coach Thomas called out. ‘You and I need to have a chat.'Darius turned his back on me and walked over to the Coach. Undoubtedly they were going to have a planning session. Alexander's fall had turned out to be a mixed blessing. Now the Sheriff's department had their eye on the place. Big Bob himself was chatting with the Principal and was inviting the man over for dinner. Big Bob was getting involved. It would take a few weeks before it became 'race-based harassment.‘Vlad,' Brandy hugged my left arm tightly. ‘Prince, how bad is this going to be?'That was unlooked for by multiple people. Two linemen retrieved Rashaan before the team made their departure.‘Brandy, take care of the Cheer Squad. If the team gets their hands on them, there is going to be some serious suffering. I'll be okay,' I smiled down at her.Taliyah gave me a thumbs-up before joining with Brandy. Mikhail told me later that she gave him a wink. After all, she knew that it was Alexander in the hospital, not her 'man' yet she had played her outrage so well. I'd almost been convinced. I was sure she'd made an impression on Rashaan; and Darius. They rounded up the Cheer Squad and the arguments and accusations began. The majority of their squad-mates didn't mind being BBC cum-sluts. That Taliyah and Brandy had broken the spell was seemingly impossible for them to grasp.As it turned out, with Taliyah giving Brandy some spine, Brandy was able to work her charismatic magic on the others to make them agree to a new program. Lunch 'workouts' were a thing of the past, as were after-scrimmage play times. From this point forward, the girls would be driving themselves to and from away-games, no more communal bus rides. To stress their point, Taliyah only had to point at Mikhail/Alexander's beating to show them how out of hand things had gotten.Darius' opening offensive had backfired in more than one way. I was sure he only saw this rebellion as a temporary thing he could soon correct. After all, he had blackmail material, his dominant mystique and his super-impressive BBC that would bring any woman to heel. His only concern was how much hell to put Brandy through before he disposed of her in one colossal gang-bang then dumping her mind-broken slut body on Big Bob's stoop. It was the 'asshole' thing to do.The rest of the day was still torturous. I developed several bruises and scrapes. Darius was still going with his full-court press to wear us down to the point we lashed out; suddenly there would be dozens of witnesses to our infraction. To add to our problems, Kaelyne also became a target of their aggression. I was as surprised as anyone when I learned she had been sent to the Vice Principal's office.Some muttonhead had grabbed her tit in the hallway between classes. She stabbed him in the face with a metal mechanical pencil while screaming 'rape' at the top of her lungs. This was not the 'Bad Ole Days'. Big Bob was keeping his eyes on the place and Principal Jean-Georges wasn't that 'Fat Old Bastard'. The 'assailant' had six inches and a hundred pounds on Kaelyne so the idea that she randomly attacked him was ludicrous.From what I heard, Big Bob was in a downright arctic mood too. Only later did Mom tell me she'd shown him the video of that first night at the lake; bukkake Brandy, Clarence getting some, and the general degradation handed out. Big Bob turned out to be Nothing like my Dad. Mom had to hold him back from going all 'redneck' on Darius and his crew. What did she offer?Revenge; at the hands of the Samsonov's. Dad could never find out. Big Bob was okay with that, bending the law to the point of breaking, covering up a crime and inventing evidence as needed to make sure that the crime would go unsolved, all those evils were absolved by the wickedness visited upon his daughter. Even then Mom had to promise an epic ass-whooping to keep him in line. 'How soon?' he had asked. Mom asked him if 'Alexander', Taliyah, Brandy and I could spend the night at his place Friday night after the game.‘No problem,' he grinned savagely.That afternoon we had to set some of Ms. Blanchard's students straight about how the wrong Samsonov had been beaten up and how Ms. Blanchard had a permanent escort to and from school for the foreseeable future. I had to admit, beating the crap out of the five of them felt good. Mikhail was positively euphoric. Big Bob had a reliable deputy hanging around the football team after school so that the Cheer Squad could go and come unmolested.Friday was more of the same, running the gauntlet between classes, dealing with collateral damage, Kaelyne was beaten up by some Black girls in the restroom, Vicky got more of the same when she tried to rescue her, and general crap at lunch. After lunch we were expecting a last, major push, some effort to remove us from the picture before the football game, leaving Brandy and Taliyah vulnerable far from home.It didn't work out that way. As lunch ended, the Brothers Samsonov, Kaelyne, (Vicky simply cut class) and the cheerleaders were all requested in the Principal's office. From there we were handed off to my Mom's tender loving care. See, she'd rented two luxurious vans for the team to be taken to the game, but we had to leave early to pick them up. Darius had fucked with the wrong Samsonov alright. Mom was a freaking psychic, or a satanic prophet.The game was the standard beat down. We won 30-14. Dad, currently off-duty, helped Mom shepherd the now horny cheerleaders off the field after the final play. I caught Darius glaring hate my way. He was counting on our inevitable defeat. What happened instead was indeed inevitable. Rattlesnakes that bit Mom, died. Killer whales turned away out of common courtesy shown to apex predators. Ten minutes alone in a room with my Mom had hardcore 'Lifers' calling their Mommas begging forgiveness; and I was assured that Theo was even scarier.After the game, we drove all the cheerleaders home, deposited the vans at our house, then Brandy, Taliyah, Mikhail and us went over to Big Bob's house. The girls grew sleepy, so Taliyah called her mother and told her she was spending the night at Brandy's. She didn't mention us being there. It was okay. The girls and Big Bob nodded off soon enough. Ground up sleeping pills in their drinks will do that.At nine o'clock, I woke up Big Bob from his recliner and suggested he go to bed. After he left, I erased the pre-recorded TiVo he'd unwittingly been watching, changed the clocks back to the real time, midnight, and then joined Mikhail on floor of Brandy's bedroom.‘Did you cut Big Bob's phone back on?' he asked. With the scope of the disaster we had enacted, he was bound to be called in.‘Yeah. Alibi established,' I yawned.My post-combat adrenaline rush was still keeping me awake. Twenty-three minutes later, Big Bob knocked on the door before coming in.‘Daddy?' Brandy rose up on her elbow and rubbed her eyes.‘Just checking up on you,' he scanned the room. ‘Taliyah, boys; ‘‘Is there a problem?' Brandy pouted.‘It seems there was a big fight at school and some boys got really hurt,' he shot Mikhail and me a curious look.‘Sorry we missed it,' Mikhail snorted.‘Vladimir, step outside and talk to me a second,' Big Bob motioned. I complied. It seemed prudent at the time. Once in the hall, he shut the door.‘This didn't have anything to do with you, or your brother, did it?'‘What happened when?' I tilted my head. Big Bob chuckled.‘Roughly nine o'clock tonight,' he grinned.‘As I recall, I went downstairs for a soda around nine, saw you asleep in your chair and suggested you go to bed,' I kept a straight face.‘I would have helped,' he whispered.‘With what, Sir?' I wondered. He looked at me steadily. Dad would have known something was up, seeking the truth was in his genetics. Big Bob; was as a diligent public servant who wove the delicate balance between law and order versus what was best for the public welfare. He just nodded, gave another chuckle then left.Over breakfast the next morning, Big Bob gave us the 411 on what had happened. Between nine o'clock and nine-ten last night, Darius and six other football players had been drinking in the parking lot after the bus ride back to school when two (maybe three) armed and armored assailants ambushed them. The attackers had been wielding big sticks/staves and proceeded to beat the seven students into unconsciousness.Darius had gotten the worst of it. Both of his knees were shattered. He was already being transferred from Davis Memorial Hospital to the one attached to the University of Arkansas Sports Medicine program. Even with that, the doctor at the hospital worried that the young athlete would ever walk again, much less run. Any hope of a career in football was gone. Even if he made a full recovery, it would take years. By that time; a college scholarship followed by some time in the NFL was a distant, impossible dream.My brother and I were immediate suspects except we had three witnesses to say we were otherwise occupied. The key one was Sheriff Big Bob Carson's himself. He recalled the time as well as what was on TV when I woke him up.Who else could it have been? Darius and the rest of Davis High's football team had spent all last season and the start of this season building up a huge roster of teams who hated their guts. Enough to hurt them? Darius' buddies had sidelined a fair number of student-athletes in their time. It could be drug related too. Darius' big brother was a known local drug figure.A peculiar aspect of the crime was that the security cameras around the crime scene had been knocked out with an air rifle while we were all at the game out of town, I had no idea that Kaelyne was that good a shot. There was no video evidence of the crime and, unless you believed in a massive conspiracy, it pretty much cleared the Samsonov's (Dad had been with us at the game and 'Mikhail' had been in the hospital; where people unknown/Darius had put him).Mom's alibi didn't start until she was seen by my Dad around 9:45 that night. She'd gone to visit 'Mikhail' at the hospital (he would be coming home this morning) then gone for a walk on the property. The Kingston PD had launched a raid on the house despite the crime not happening in their jurisdiction. They did illegally cross into county land, yet didn't find any incriminating evidence. Phineas Cobb the third had taken care of that for her.A five person (me, Mikhail, Mom, Kaelyne and Mr. Cobb) conspiracy had given Darius far more retribution than he could have possibly considered. Mom had insisted that we destroy his legs, thus ending his most potent weapon in the BBC arsenal, his status as a sports star. His dominant shadow would no longer cast itself on the halls of our school.Had he not put Alexander in the hospital;But he did. Threatening my brother's life had cost him his future. The most insidious part of Mom's plan was that whatever the Black community of Kingston thought, they would never be sure it was the Samsonov's behind it. We had never verbally threatened anybody over what happened to 'Mikhail/Alexander'.To believe we did it was to accept we had some sort of serious grievance. We did. Everyone knew we did yet they had denied the crime when it happened and were now trapped in that denial. In the investigation of the beating, the name 'Darius' had never come up. In fact, 'Mikhail/Alexander' hadn't named anyone, not even the coach. Mom had bluffed about that.Publically, if we had any issues to work out, it would have been with the coach and he was just fine, not a scratch on him.None of that stopped the Kingston PD from stepping up the pressure on the Samsonovs. It didn't stop the Mayor from calling in the State Police to take over the investigation. We weren't sure on what grounds it was being requested. After all, her talk with me about Darius had happened under circumstances she definitely didn't want to make public. Dad wasn't part of either investigation. Big Bob being our alibi didn't automatically exclude him.The outside investigators came by Bob's on Sunday to talk with him about it and he'd agreed on a concurrent investigation. The biggest question for the men (women actually) from Little Rock was why did anyone think it was 'Alexander' and I. What was our motive? Brandy had dumped Darius to be with me, so why would I want to punish him over that fact? Brandy hadn't been publically, or privately, threatened by him.'Alexander' and I? We Samsonov boys were good kids, making good grades with no recorded history of violence of any kind, neither in Arkansas, or Alaska. I hadn't liked Darius, but that hardly made me, or 'Alexander', unique. Most of the White student body hated his guts, after the fact. The showdown last Thursday? The only one who committed violence was the mayor's daughter on her former boyfriend; who wasn't among those hospitalized.Rashaan had been saved punishment because his teammates so shamed on the bus ride back to Davis High. he'd left early. Had he been wise, he would have thanked Taliyah for that accident of fate. On the plus side for that cocksucker, he was now the head of the football team as well as its star player.The two showdowns in Ms. Blanchard's class? Those students would have to explain why it had happened, thus what they had been up to over the past few years. That was sexual assault, rape and blackmail and taking that wrap to avenge Darius wasn't in them. The beating up of the kids around Shaquille? Precisely what had those seven been up to jumping our basketball teammate anyway?The carnage on the basketball court? That would imply one of the player confessing to stomping on Kaja. Both the team and the Assistant Coach were opposed to that exposure. No, it was the very erosion of trust that infected the BBC culture. Darius had gone from the Crown Prince to a 'what might have been' overnight. His former cronies felt zero loyalty to him anymore. Darius Pope had lost his luster. He was yesterday's news in the high school halls.At this point in the inquiry had the Kingston elders admitted to the outsiders Darius was a scumbag, abusing women and men for his own selfish ends, a blackmailer and bully, the investigation might have gained traction. But they didn't. He was their flawless native son, utterly without fault. That led the investigation away from us. It turned out that other teams Did have a motive for hurting the football team in general, not just Darius. The coach had to admit to that, there was video evidence of his team's barbaric behavior.The whole team were bastards on the field, half a dozen opposing coaches claimed as much and were vocally happy that such misfortune had befallen the evildoers of Davis High, karmic payback for their unsportsmanlike behavior. Did they know who the two (or three) 'agents of karma' had been? No idea. By that time, we had other worries. When the weekend was over it would be time to return to school, for all five of us.{Not like any other Monday}Monday, school life was adrift in the chaos left by Darius' abrupt departure. There was no clear successor, yet there were several contenders eager for the spot. None of them were White, but considering the school's racial makeup, it wasn't too surprising. There was also a sullen resentment against us, tempered by fear. It didn't take a first place winner at a school science fair for the students to figure out what had really happened.Darius had put Alexander/Mikhail in the hospital and now he and six of his closest confederates were in various states of serious disrepair. Everyone knew that Darius wasn't going to be carrying any footballs this season, or maybe ever again. He had crossed the unspoken line between harassment and serious damage. Sure, the Black student body had participated in those punches, pokes and slurs.Punishing 'Mikhail' had initially appeared to be justified; I had purloined Brandy and had gotten what I deserved for daring to dare. It had never occurred to anyone the meaner dogs in the fight weren't Darius Pope and his boys. Clearly, Darius had raised the level of 'acceptable' violence and they had blindly accepted his choice.Monday morning, Darius was no longer among them and the whole school society was experiencing 'continental drift'. Even teachers were uncertain what to make of us. Only Ms. Blanchard looked openly relieved that today was no longer more of the same. We found that out right before we had another school communion under the tutelage of Principal Dr. Pierre O'Rourke Jean-Georges.It was another exposition of what was wrong with this world and how he could fix it. The African-American Male Stereotype (aka the Football Team) had begotten violence from the entrenched White Establishment (even though there were no suspects, white or black, charged in the incident) in a never-ending cycle of brutality and suffering. The world would soon see the advent of the Brown Man ending the tyranny of White European cultural imperialism; not thru conflict, but thru the colored people's inherent spiritual superiority. Huh?‘I think we po' White folk done been insulted,' Vicky whispered to our small group. She had spunk. She was also Kaelyne's best friend, which would be of more importance later today.‘Why doesn't he rail against patriarchal tyranny?' Kaelyne added.‘Because he's a man?' I offered.‘Exactly,' she hissed.‘If there is so much White tyranny going on,' Alexander coughed, ‘why am I in so much pain?'‘Because you don't know how to dodge, you knucklehead,' Mikhail smirked. Dr. Pierre let his imperious gaze fall upon us, so we quieted. The rest was more of the same. We were idiots for solving problems with our fists and cocks; blah, blah, blah. What were we supposed to be? Men with pussies? The Student Body was left largely in the dark about our fates, though it did take him an hour to lead us there.Shaquille was at our lunch table once more, as was his girlfriend, Monique, and our teammate Kaja. That was comforting in more ways than one. Whatever had happened, they weren't ashamed, or afraid, to be seen with us. They didn't ask, so we didn't have to lie. We talked about upcoming tests, basketball practice and perhaps doing something this weekend. It was almost as if we were living in the 'new' normal.A few cheerleaders slipped away from Brandy and Taliyah that day. It wasn't like the BBC had lost its magic. Addicts remained addicts, that cock was too good to pass up and once a girl had the taste; they couldn't turn it down when offered. Mom's answer was a fuck-fest; which was an idea we three boys balked at. That was when Mom had her first glimpse that Mikhail had a problem of the heart.Only after she had pulled me aside for a chat/interrogation did she realize her own stupid mistake. Yes, Mom confessed to making an error in judgement. She'd realized that Taliyah was wild-spirited while not taking into consideration was exactly the type of woman my brother needed. That is what she said, 'needed'. That was so scary that I contemplated going behind Mom's back to warn Mikhail, almost.I had been a good boy Friday night and criminal goings on had kept us apart Saturday and Sunday, so by Monday, Brandy was about to bust a gut. Taliyah had her own bonfire burning behind her eyes, even while she exhibited more self-control. Kaelyne and Vicky staying after school, trying to weasel in a ride, was a bit unlooked for.‘I thought we could hang out together,' Kaelyne beamed. Vicky was not-so secretly amused. I repeat; she and Kaelyne were best friends.‘No!' snapped Brandy. Everyone was looking at her. ‘I mean, we really need to do some studying. Really bad; ‘‘I can help,' Kaelyne refused to be dissuaded.‘Not with this, you can't,' I muttered to myself. But I couldn't come up with a viable excuse to deny her, considering her rallying to our cause last week. ‘Sure,' I said in a louder voice. Brandy shot me a desperate visual appeal.‘Taliyah, are you and Brandy still planning to spend the night to help us with that project?' Mikhail intervened.‘Well; maybe,' Taliyah smirked. ‘Brandy?'‘Hell yes,' she glared at Kaelyne.‘Then we are all agreed,' Kaelyne grinned. Off we went, packed in like sardines. Alexander had gone home with Ms. Blanchard. That still left us with Brandy, Taliyah, Kaja, Mikhail, Kaelyne, Vicky and me in a four person Shelby Mustang.I dropped Kaja off first, as always. The trip home was more suspenseful than eventful. Victoria was unashamedly upbeat while Kaelyne was terribly high-strung. How she could miss the romantic situation between Brandy and I was a mystery. Only after homework, when we were getting ready for our workout and Mom got home, did any of it make sense. Instead of appearing as the majesty she normally projected to outsiders, she sneaked up on us all. She really was the Wicked Witch of the Ozarks! She must have been standing there for five minutes before she made her presence known by noisily clearing her throat.‘Brandy,' Mom stated with authority.‘Yes Ma'am,' she meekly responded.‘It is good to see you today. You too, Ms. Malik. Kaelyne and Victoria, it is nice to see you coming over as well. I hope my sons are making you feel welcome.'‘Hello,' Victoria and Kaelyne chorused. Taliyah settled for a wave.‘Kaelyne,' Mom nodded, ‘why don't you come with me and get some drink for the company?'‘Me?'‘Unless you know of another girl in the county named Kaelyne?' Mom mused.Brandy was relieved she wasn't the one being led away. She was still jittery.‘She doesn't look all that scary,' Vicky said in a low voice.‘Wait until she threatens you with physical violence,' Taliyah snorted.‘My Mom says she's psychotic. She cracked up years ago, along with her twin brother, Thomas, and they had to leave town,' Victoria informed us.‘It is Theo,' Alexander corrected her. ‘Her brother is called Theo, and from what I've been told, it was Kingston that drove her out.'‘What happened?' she pressed.‘Their Uncle Theo put my Uncle Leon into a coma he hasn't woken up from,' Taliyah grumbled. ‘This whole family is nuts.'‘You will pay for that,' Mikhail leered.‘Hardly,' she leered right back.‘Am I missing something?' Vicky looked to Alexander.‘He's always picks on her and she always slaps him,' Alexander shrugged. ‘Make of that what you will.'‘Don't you have some place you need to be, geek?' Taliyah menaced Victoria.‘No. Homework is done and I don't normally eat dinner until eight,' she answered blithely.‘Alexander, why don't you drive Vicky and Kaelyne home?' Brandy asked.‘Because he's convalescing,' Mikhail chortled.{Meanwhile, in the kitchen}‘So,' Mom said, ‘how long have you known you are a lesbian?'‘Wha, what?' Kaelyne stammered. ‘I'm not; ‘‘Me and my family don't mind, Kaelyne,' Mom smiled. ‘We aren't going to 'out' you, or going to stop liking you. I asked a simple question and expect an honest answer. Homosexuality is fine; lying is a deadly sin.'‘Umm; ah; a while.'‘See, that wasn't so hard. You like Taliyah, don't you?'‘I; uh; what makes; I; ‘‘Kaelyne, I trust you implicitly and would never steer you wrong. If you want to get close to Taliyah, all you need to do is ask Vlad. He likes you and considers you a friend,' Mom explained. ‘He's not going to hold asking him against you.'‘What about Mikhail? Aren't they; ‘‘Since you don't seem to have figured it out yet, let me tell you, Mikhail is difficult and not terribly helpful in matters of the heart,' Gayle chucked. ‘Vlad is the reasonable one, Taliyah likes him and he can use Brandy as a buffer.'‘What about what Taliyah wants?' Kaelyne protested.‘Do you care?'‘Yes; yes, I want her to be happy.'‘Good for you. I'm glad you've befriended my boys. That's a very brave thing to do and I appreciate it.'‘You are welcome.'‘So, ask him,' Mom finished getting out enough bottled water for the group of us.‘I don't want to put Vlad in a bind,' Kaelyne protested.‘Listen Kaelyne, losers moan about what they should have done. Winners risk and, win or lose, don't regret trying,' Mom lectured. ‘Do you want to graduate and leave this burgh wondering what might have been?'‘I; what happens if; it could be a disaster,' Kaelyne mumbled.‘You may not have a better chance than right now. Pull Vlad aside and open up to him. I guarantee things won't be any worse.'‘Okay. I'll think about it,' Kaelyne moped.‘Fair enough,' Mom shrugged. ‘With all this estrogen in the air, I feel like getting naked.'‘What?' Kaelyne gasped. Yep, Dad was in for a busy night. They came back in silence.{Outside once more}The rest of the workout went as planned. We finished with a wrestling bout between Mikhail and me. Taliyah and Brandy cheered me on so Vicky decided to speak up for my younger brother. I won two out of three falls after some serious effort only to have Alexander critique our efforts after the fact. Mom had come and gone. Kaelyne was pensive.‘Shower time,' Mikhail groaned.‘Finally,' Brandy sounded exasperated.‘Vlad, can I talk to you for a moment?' Kaelyne mumbled. Brandy stomped her foot in frustration when I complied.‘Yes?' I said after I'd pulled her aside.‘You and Brandy are; ‘‘What? Having sex?' I suggested.‘In love,' she looked down at her feet.‘Why would you want to know?'‘No reason,' she lied.‘We are into one another, not making wedding plans,' I patted Kaelyne on the shoulder. ‘It is sex. I'd like to think it is good sex. Is there a problem? Is his about us, you and me?' She shook her head. ‘I really like you,' I continued, ‘I don't want to think I've been leading you along.'‘That's not it,' she whispered.‘What is it then?'‘I like Taliyah,' she blurted out. The fear of humiliation in her eyes was palatable to me.‘Like as in you would like to spend time with her, like?' I asked. She remained staring at me, terribly hopeless. ‘Oh; you really like her. Oh, okay. Do you want to me to ask her how she feels about you?'‘I; I don't know,' she wailed. ‘The school isn't exactly 'gay-friendly'.'‘Do you believe that I'm your friend?'‘Yes.'‘Then don't worry. I've got this covered,' I assured her. Kaelyne took a deep breath, slowly let it out then hugged me. I could feel Brandy's lust-fueled anger being sent Kaelyne's way. I gave my buddy a comforting pat on the back.‘Brandy, can I talk to you a moment?' I said as I walked over to her. She was very uncertain and confused, so I kissed her. She burned me up with her full-body press in response.‘What is it?' she worried.‘You make me so happy. I don't think I tell you that enough.'I could feel Brandy's body relaxing against min

Watch here: https://youtu.be/q2m2GMVOIBQSupply RunDisney strikes a major deal to merge Hulu Live TV with Fubo, resolving its antitrust dispute with Fubo over the delayed sports streaming service, Venu. This merger will create a new joint venture, with Fubo's CEO leading Hulu Live. Meanwhile, Disney will lend financial support to keep Fubo afloat until the deal closes in 12–18 months. Read on Variety | Read on TechCrunchBuried TreasureBrian highlights Silo and The Penguin as standout picks, while Tom recommends Blossom on Viki. Got something for us? Email cordkillers@gmail.com!Scanning the HorizonCES 2025 unveils cutting-edge TV innovations:• LG debuts its G5 TV lineup with AI integration and 165 Hz refresh rates.• Samsung enhances VisionAI, bringing features like Auto HDR Remastering and food recognition for on-screen recipes.• TiVo's TV OS expands to the US, offering customization without heavy ad commitments.Read more on The Verge | Read on VentureBeatChatterListener feedback sparks discussion on Sonic 3's story arc and Jim Carrey's potential return as Robotnik. NASCAR's 2025 broadcasting shifts also draw mixed reactions. Dale Jr. is back, but in-car video features move to Max, frustrating fans. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/q2m2GMVOIBQSupply RunDisney strikes a major deal to merge Hulu Live TV with Fubo, resolving its antitrust dispute with Fubo over the delayed sports streaming service, Venu. This merger will create a new joint venture, with Fubo's CEO leading Hulu Live. Meanwhile, Disney will lend financial support to keep Fubo afloat until the deal closes in 12–18 months. Read on Variety | Read on TechCrunchBuried TreasureBrian highlights Silo and The Penguin as standout picks, while Tom recommends Blossom on Viki. Got something for us? Email cordkillers@gmail.com!Scanning the HorizonCES 2025 unveils cutting-edge TV innovations:• LG debuts its G5 TV lineup with AI integration and 165 Hz refresh rates.• Samsung enhances VisionAI, bringing features like Auto HDR Remastering and food recognition for on-screen recipes.• TiVo's TV OS expands to the US, offering customization without heavy ad commitments.Read more on The Verge | Read on VentureBeatChatterListener feedback sparks discussion on Sonic 3's story arc and Jim Carrey's potential return as Robotnik. NASCAR's 2025 broadcasting shifts also draw mixed reactions. Dale Jr. is back, but in-car video features move to Max, frustrating fans. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/q2m2GMVOIBQSupply RunDisney strikes a major deal to merge Hulu Live TV with Fubo, resolving its antitrust dispute with Fubo over the delayed sports streaming service, Venu. This merger will create a new joint venture, with Fubo's CEO leading Hulu Live. Meanwhile, Disney will lend financial support to keep Fubo afloat until the deal closes in 12–18 months. Read on Variety | Read on TechCrunchBuried TreasureBrian highlights Silo and The Penguin as standout picks, while Tom recommends Blossom on Viki. Got something for us? Email cordkillers@gmail.com!Scanning the HorizonCES 2025 unveils cutting-edge TV innovations:• LG debuts its G5 TV lineup with AI integration and 165 Hz refresh rates.• Samsung enhances VisionAI, bringing features like Auto HDR Remastering and food recognition for on-screen recipes.• TiVo's TV OS expands to the US, offering customization without heavy ad commitments.Read more on The Verge | Read on VentureBeatChatterListener feedback sparks discussion on Sonic 3's story arc and Jim Carrey's potential return as Robotnik. NASCAR's 2025 broadcasting shifts also draw mixed reactions. Dale Jr. is back, but in-car video features move to Max, frustrating fans. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Young woman finds lust and love at Christmas.By JagFarlane. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories.Mel swiped the credit card along the terminal, waited for the receipt to print, stuffed it into the restaurant's portfolio along with a couple of Ande's mints, and turned to stroll towards the table. She dropped it off to the table's occupants and hurried off to the kitchen, trying to look busy though probably fooling no one. It was Christmas Eve after all and the bulk of the town's part time residents, university students and staff, had all scattered off to home days ago leaving behind the few full time residents to keep the place from looking like a ghost town.She was a student at the university too, but had elected to remain behind this year much to the restaurant manager's relief. Not that the money had been very good, with the vast majority of the students gone there were only a few souls that made it into the building each night and sometimes she wondered if it had even been worth it to the management to even turn on the lights. Stepping out to pick up the signed receipt and bus several dessert plates away, a glance was given to the tips section and a bit of a relieved sigh at the decent tip. At least the residents routinely tipped, she smiled a bit to herself.After taking a look around and finding no one else at any of her tables, Mel leaned up against the entrance-way to the kitchen and allowed herself a quiet moment. Another Christmas Eve alone; not that she hadn't gotten used to it during her stint in the Air Force. But they still were never easy to take. She'd gotten out and took the chance to move to the one area she'd dreamed of living ever since she was a little girl, Boise, Idaho. Shortly after arriving, she'd invested most of her savings into a condo figuring that not having a monthly house expense was the best route. From there she had enrolled in the local community college and after graduating moved to Boise State University.Between the part time gig as a waitress, her G I Bill money, and a couple small grants Mel was living a fairly comfortable albeit Spartan lifestyle. Still, it hadn't left a lot of time for romance and it didn't help that she spent most of her time around people who were a few years younger than her. Just finding someone she could sit at the bar with, legally, was a challenge sometimes and often the grad students were either too busy or in a serious relationship already. Fingers played in the curls of her long, dark red hair as she mulled over her current state in life. That is, until the snapping of fingers in front of her face brought her back to reality."Hey, you've got one on table six." Sandy smiled to her as she ducked into the kitchen.Shaking her head a little to clear the daze, frowning for a moment as she realized that Jingle Bells was playing for fourth time tonight, and then putting on her best smile, Mel made her way over towards table six. A quick glance at the clock revealed closing time was drawing near and she said a silent thanks to her shift being over soon. She just hoped this last customer wasn't someone who had gone out to get drunk, and then stopped here on the way home.Phil looked up from the menu as the waitress approached, still mulling between the hickory burger and the spicy chicken sandwich. A moment was spent admiring the waitress' legs, shown off by the green and black plaid skirt she was wearing. Slowly his eyes moved upwards, the thought of the hickory burger fading as he looked over her full chest and the red curls lying upon it. It had been a long day of travel then in the barn tending to the mare and the approaching woman was a welcome sight indeed, both for the eyes and the promise of getting a decent meal at some point today.She rolled her eyes a bit at the stare she was getting, some days she didn't mind getting ogled but over the years it had grown quite annoying. So annoyed she was that she didn't even notice that he appeared to be familiar. "Good evening and welcome to Terry's. Can I start you out with a drink and perhaps an appetizer?" She put on her best server smile and hoped that perhaps his eyes would move up from her chest to at least her chin."Can I get a Miller Light and a half order of mozzarella sticks?" He waited for her to write down the order, "And I'll take a umm, hickory burger, medium rare." Phil put down the menu to fish out his driver's license and passed it to the waitress.She scribbled down the order and took the license as it was passed to her, glancing down at the date of birth then at the picture and passed it back to him. As Mel made her way back to the order station, the nagging thought of the familiar face in the picture was bugging her. She hadn't red the name, and for once regretted not doing so. A glance over her shoulder as she input the order didn't reveal much as his head was down to play with his phone.The sound of a skirt swishing as the waitress came up to the table caused him to glance up, just long enough to take the pint glass and take an appreciative sip of the amber liquid. Sure, it was a little watery but after the last two days it felt like heaven. Eyes glanced up to watch the waitress walk away, her red hair swaying behind her. Her shape reminded him a bit of someone else but he wasn't fully sure who and made a note to try to look at her face the next time she came around.Sandy had taken the mozzarella sticks out to him so Mel stood off to the side; taking note that closing time was coming up in a few minutes. Of course the handful of customers still in the joint would be allowed to finish their meals but not to place any more orders after the doors were locked. Mel was fairly sure she'd figured out who her guest was, but wanted an up close look at his face to be sure. If he was the person she thought he was, it was to be a pleasant surprise, particularly since he'd never paid her figure that sort of attention before, even with there seeming to be a mental connection. A cross of her fingers, perhaps Christmas was looking up after all.Phil sipped at his third beer of the night, glad that the town bus system was still running through the holidays. The redhead hadn't been by him since bringing the latest beer, a little more than he was used to consuming on a normal evening but it did mean she was coming by more often. He still hadn't worked up the courage to look her in the face yet, or maybe he was just enjoying the other views, he wasn't quite sure which one it was. The debate became moot when his head snapped up at the voice behind him and his eyes finally looked at Mel's face."Hey Phil, long time!" She was finally certain it was Phil Clauser, who had been the Graduate Teaching Assistant for the Intro to Equine class she'd taken to minor in equine studies. Mel could still remember how the muscles of his forearms threatened to tear the rolled up cuffs of his flannel shirt when he was teaching them out to do groundwork with a stubborn mare. There had been a couple of jokes among the girls about how they wouldn't mind taking a roll in the hay with him but as far as Mel knew none had done more than chatted about it.For a moment he regretted having finished three beers already as it seemed they were fogging his brain. The face attached to the tall redhead was vaguely familiar. He thought he could place it in a classroom setting. What seemed like an eternity passed before he imagined her hair tied back, a pair of jeans instead of the skirt, and a sweatshirt; finally placed her as a former student of his. "Hey, Melissa. It has been a couple of years, hasn't it?"She let out her breath a bit, in relief. Sometimes the red hair was nice in that it often helped people to remember her. For once that was playing into her favor. She set down the burger and another beer, "Merry Christmas Eve! I hope it's going well for you.""It's going good now," he gave her a faint smile and proceeded to tell her about how one of the mares under his charge had come down ill and he'd come back on short notice to oversee her care. He'd only gotten back this morning and had spent most of the day at the barn, only getting enough time to shower the barn smell off, change his clothes, and come in for dinner. "Such of the life of working in agriculture, but it's worth it to me," he offered a smile to her as she stole a fry from his plate. The sound of a lock clicking brought him back to the restaurant, "I guess I should eat up, don't want to keep you late on Christmas Eve of all nights.""Oh, it's okay," she looked up as the manager called out for the waitresses and slid from the table, "I'll be right back." Off to the backroom she went, leaving him to work on his meal.He looked up when she rejoined him at the table, sliding herself back into the chair. She placed a glass of eggnog in front of him with a little smile, "On the house. So, what are you doing for Christmas since you're back on short notice?" He watched as she tilted her head and seemed to be anxiously awaiting his answer. "Oh, I'm not sure. I guess just go home for the night, have to spend some time with the mare, tomorrow and otherwise maybe I'll just catch a few movies on the tv." He took a sip of the eggnog and noted a hint of Southern Comfort. When he looked up, she just gave him a little smile. "You?""Probably about the same thing, except for the mare part. Just catch up on some Christmas movies, have a couple of drinks, sleep in, and do the same tomorrow I suppose. Or," she paused, grinned a bit at him, "or, maybe you could join me and at least we would have some company to enjoy during our movie watching." Mel wagged her eyebrows just a bit in excitement.He watched her eyebrows in a bit of amusement, and chuckled softly "I think I would be a fool to turn down the offer. I would be glad to join you."She smiled widely at that, and rose up to go retrieve the check and complete the formalities of shutting down the restaurant for the night. He watched her dart from spot to spot, helping with cleaning up tables and putting away silverware. A bit of wonder got to him, how different she was here, than in the classroom, where she had always been a bit formal. He wondered briefly if that had to do with her being a veteran. Perhaps it was because of how she'd lived. It wasn't long though, before she popped up to the table and gently grabbed his arm to signal that it was time to go. Getting to his feet, he realized just about how much alcohol he'd had, but made it out the door and onto the metro bus, to her place.They walked the two blocks from the bus stop to the complex, where Mel's condo was. Phil looked up, blinking, "I didn't know anyone rented these out." Mel just smiled and shook her head, "I own one. Much better than living in the apartments near campus, and especially much quieter and more private. Plus, I don't have to compete with the younger women at the pool." She gave a little wolfish grin at that last part and led him towards the door of her condo.Inside, he found the place lightly decorated for Christmas. Little figurines placed here and there, a few window decorations, Christmas cards taped above the entranceway to the kitchen. The condo itself was cozy. From what he could see it seemed like a two bedroom place and he smiled a little at the fireplace in the living room with a stocking hung to one side. The place had a very homie feel to it; something he hadn't felt except at his parent's place, in a long time.She ran around in the background, picking up a few things here and there. None of her plans had included company being over for the night. Normally she would have just come in, poured a glass of wine, stripped off her work uniform and caught up with her TiVo in panties. Obviously that wasn't going to happen tonight though she stifled a little giggle as she imagined what his reaction would have been to that. "There's beer, eggnog, and soda in the fridge and the cabinet above the freezer has the liquor in it. Feel free to help yourself, so long as you make me an eggnog with spiced rum in it. I'll be out in a minute."She pulled off the top and the skirt, throwing them into her laundry basket. After a moment thinking it over, her bra followed shortly afterwards, letting a heavy chest hang freely. Deciding to go all in and fully change, panties were thrown in last. Into the master bathroom she wandered, taking up a warm wet washcloth, and using it to wipe some of the sweat away from underneath her breasts, around her thighs, and a few other places. Fingers ran through her curly red bush. It was a little overdue for a trimming and there was a bit of a wish that she had the time to, but she figured if it came to that he probably wouldn't mind terribly much. A few pats with a towel to dry off and she put on a stretchy sports bra, tee-shirt, and a pair of university sweat pants. Two spritzes from a bottle of warm vanilla sugar body spray then quick brushing of her hair and out the door she came.Phil had taken a seat on the end of the couch, having made two of the eggnog and spiced rum drinks. Slowly he sipped at one, just admiring her place and the country style décor she seemed to prefer. A smile crossed his face as she came out, a little surprised at how she could make even sweats and a tee-shirt look sexy. He was just content to watch her as she went over to the fireplace and got a compressed log lit, admiring her rear as she bent over to do it, then as she put a movie into the player and came over to the couch.They chatted idly during the first movie, discussing career goals, college experiences, and general background information. Phil purposely kept only slowly sipping away at his eggnog, making the drink last the entirety of the first movie and giving the alcohol time to course its way out of his system. As they chatted he found himself becoming more intrigued with this young woman, her variety of interests and the passion she brought to life. He liked how her face lit up as she talked about taking an internship at a dig in the Badlands and at having found actual dinosaur bones. Even if he wasn't so interested in what she was studying, he just liked being around someone who was so happy doing what she was doing.The topic slowly turned towards their shared love of horses. He'd grown up on a horse ranch a few hours south of where they were and she'd only just started taking lessons after moving to Boise. He knew more of the technical side but she had the passion beyond that of someone who had just gushed over ponies as a little kid. When she came back from changing the DVD's and accepted her second drink, he took note that she was sitting much closer to him than at the beginning of the evening. Each time she came back from getting up it seemed she moved a few inches closer till it was shortly after one am and upon coming back from putting in a new movie she was cuddled up against his figure. He could smell the faded scent of vanilla spice on her, it felt inviting, it just felt right.She knew it was the alcohol. She'd been making hers stronger than usual just so that she'd have the excuse to blame the alcohol. But now she found herself spooned up against Phil and having decided that she'd already crossed the line of no turning back. Mel gently guided his arm to rest over her stomach, snuggling herself fully against him, closing her eyes and just savoring the feeling. It had been too long since she'd last felt the comforting warmth of another person pressed up against her, this time with the bonus of his muscles giving her the protective feeling of being wrapped up. Through her sweats she could even feel the gentle pressing of a stiffening cock. She smiled to herself and gave a tiny wiggle just to get a better feel of it then pressed softly against him feigning snuggling in more.By about halfway through the movie and all of the way through her glass of eggnog curiosity and hormones couldn't be contained much more. Her hand gently drifted to his pants and upon finding no resistance she unzipped the jeans and slipped her hand in, seeking the opening of his boxers. Fingers gently caressed the head of his swollen member and slowly she began to guide it out into the open. Slowly and gently she caressed him, just enjoying the feeling of his hard cock throbbing in her hand. When she felt his fingers touch the edge of her sweats, Mel arched a little to urge him to seek further. A contented sigh slipped from her lips as she felt his hand gently cup her swollen mound and fingers softly rub upon her clit and external lips.He had been hoping that there might be a little fun after she had been wiggling and adjusting against him during the movie. When she reached for his cock, it felt like he'd stiffened even more at the anticipation. The stroking was pleasant but it hadn't compared to reaching within her sweats, finding her not wearing a pair of panties, and that she was already damp from the little bit of play they'd already gotten into. Gently he played with her clit, loving the little moans coming from her throat. When she felt wet enough he slipped two fingers within her and began to massage the inside of her cunt while caressing her clit. When he felt her fingers leave his cock for a moment he internally sighed at the loss, but seconds later he felt her sweatpants slip down and the soft skin of her rear caress against his stiff member.As much as Mel was enjoying having her cunt caressed by his fingers what she really craved was the stretching that only a thick cock could give her. Twisting her body a bit, she wiggled upwards till she could stand and straddle his feet. Facing away, she slowly lowered he beautiful ass into position. He guided her down with his two hands on her ass cheeks. Then he gently spread her cheeks until his cock head rubbed against her wet, swollen lips. She reached between her legs and gently grasped his shaft. Then she slowly rubbed the head against herself, enjoying the feeling and giving it enough time to get thoroughly wet. She had taken larger cocks, but he was up there in size and she knew that plenty of lube was her key to really enjoying the experience. When she felt she had gotten his cock wet enough, she pressed his head against her tight hole and slowly she began to wiggle herself down, allowing him to enter. A soft groan slipped from her throat as the head popped within, slowly followed by the thick, veiny shaft.Only when she finally felt her ass begin to press against his body, did she finally breathe out and just waited, feeling him within her. Phil then slid both his hands upward. Very slowly, his manly hands slid around her ass. Then he slid them forward to her navel, sliding one finger into her tender dimple. She had goosebumps for a moment, and he waited until her body calmed. Then he resumed his slow upward journey, maintaining a contstant firm contact along her narrow waist.Mel rested her back on Phil's chest. Tucking her head on one of his shoulders, she leaned her head alongside his.Finally, his hands slid up, under her tits. He turned his wrists to cup each of her tits, and her ass continued to gyrate on his lap. Her cunt continued to clutch his cock, but she remained seated. Then his index fingers both found her erect stiff nipples. He drew his thumbs around to capture and gently squeeze both her large nipples.Mel was now breathing heavily from both anticipation and the tingling of her tits. Ever so subtly, Phil replaced his index fingers with his middle fingers, all the while stroking and gently pinching. Then he firmly held both captive nipples and his index fingers resumed contact directly on the tips of each of Mel's very hard nipples.The result was electric. Mel squeezed Phil's cock hard, as her cunt rushed with a small flow of fluids, onto his lap. A minute or so later, another gentle squeeze was given to him, and for a bit longer she sat & just enjoyed feeling him filling her, feeling the soft throb of his cock buried deep within. At first her movements were slow, sliding just an inch in and out at a time, but he began to get the idea, and rock with her. Their momentum built up till easily half of his length was moving within her.Phil slid his hands back down alongside her ass cheeks, & found a comfortable position that allowed him to maintain a steady pounding of her wet slit then gently nuzzled the side of her neck and worked his lips up against the spot where her neck met her shoulder. Softly he began to kiss the skin, then slowly he worked his tongue against it, adding in little nibbles. He wasn't sure if he could keep up the pace much longer but wanted her to enjoy this as much as he could help her to. The attention to her neck drew another round of goosebumps from Mel. Then she started to breathe heavier, confirming to Phil that she was starting her second orgasm.Mel twisted her neck to give his mouth more access, while beginning to squeeze harder on his cock with her vaginal muscles. Before too long she felt him grab her around the waist and hold her tight just before he thrust up deep within her and began to fill her womb with warm cum. She groaned through a small orgasm then began to snuggle in against him, suddenly feeling the late hour and the long day's toll on her muscles.Deciding that the bed would be a better place to sleep and that she'd better get to there before chancing passing out on the sofa, wearily she rose, disengaging from his softening cock. A little grin and she leaned over to take the semi-hard member in her mouth and clean him of their juices. "You're of course, welcome to join me in bed. But I do sleep nude so you know," pink tongue licked her lips clean, and eyes looked at him for his reply.He watched in amazement as she leaned over and sucked his cock clean, never before had a woman done such to him, and his curiosity was piqued at what else she liked to do. When she mentioned bed to him there was the realization as to how worn his body was, and that he'd have to be out to the stables for a bit later that day. "Oh I don't know how I'll manage but I think I'll give it a try and suffer through it, if I have to." He returned the grin and slowly got himself up, following her to the bedroom.Phil didn't waste much time in undressing, tossing his clothes off to the side. His attention then turned towards Mel. He blushed a little as he realized she had been watching him rush to be nude. She had waited till she had his attention. Phil sat on the bed with his back against the velvet padded headboard. Slowly, she stripped off her clothes, first her shirt, and then her sports bra, revealing her heavy, full chest. She turned her rear towards him & bent over. and slowly worked her pants down from her rounded ass, then past her thighs, finally to her ankles. Up she stood to kick the pants to the side, and then turned around to let him have his first full view of her. His eyes went immediately to the thick, red bush which stood out against pale skin. "I like it," he smiled to her, "you're stunning."Into her bed they snuggled up, facing each other so that her hair didn't get into the way. Sleep quickly overtook the pair, with Phil's last thoughts being that he hoped it wasn't just the alcohol that had led to where they were.As he opened his eyes, the answer was evident before him as he woke to seeing her laying between his legs, his cock nestled within her mouth and being softly suckled. He swore that she smiled at him before going back to paying attention to his cock, gently stroking and suckling on it till he was at full mast and ready for what she had planned.Mel rolled onto her back, feeling quite slutty and enjoying it. It had been too long since she'd allowed this side of her to appear and it seemed that the side was making sure to catch up on all that it had missed with Phil being the beneficiary of it. She reached over to the night table and picked up the bottle of Astroglide that she'd placed there before commencing the wakeup sucking. "Hmm, so how about being a dear and straddling my waist then fucking these big tits of mine? I'd love to watch your beautiful cockhead appear from between them." She grinned. Sure, he couldn't resist the offer.His jaw just dropped, almost wanting to pinch himself to see if this was a dream, but deciding that wouldn't be the best idea. Instead he took the wiser route and rolled over to straddle her waist, placing his cock between her luscious breasts. While he was stituating himself, she had taken a small tube of lube and poured a healthy dose in between her tits, rubbing them together to warm the lube up a bit before she wrapped his cock in between them. She propped up two pillows to elevate her head for the best view and access. Mel continued to hold her luscious tits firmly wrapped around Phil's shaft. As Phil began his first long upward thrust, he watched her long tongue snake out and softly lick under the head of his cock. He was turned on from the erotic act, and the sensitivity his cock felt, from her tongue-work. Slowly he began to rock his hips, watching as his lucky cock got to fuck her buxom tits.She tilted her head forward to let the head of his cock enter her mouth every time it left the warmth of her bosom. Phil gently ran his fingers through Mel's hair, occasionally helping to hold her head tilted forward as she ran her tongue & lips around his tip. The lube claimed to be ‘edible' but didn't taste the best, but if this blossomed into something more, she was more than willing to invest in some flavored lube. Her eyes were kept glancing upwards, watching the expression on his face. It was priceless and addicting; a look of disbelief and pure pleasure that she could watch all day long, if given the chance. For that, she'd let him fuck her anywhere and using whatever part of her body he pleased. The fact that she could bring this sort of pleasure to him, gave her a new fulfilled filling, which she hadn't known she'd longed for.He slowly rocked, savoring the first time he'd been allowed to do this to a woman. If you had told him that women actually did this outside of porn, before this morning he wouldn't have believed it. Andow he hoped that sometime again in his life, he'd get the chance to do it again. Watching the tip of his cock disappear into the mounds of tit flesh, then out and into her waiting mouth was a sight to behold. Getting to feel the soft skin of her body against his balls as they dragged against her with each stroke, was a new and fantastic sensation.She had to admit that he had a good amount of stamina, but all good things eventually ended, and she knew his ending was coming soon. His thrusts were getting faster and she could see the need to cum light up his face. His cock tip had changed from light pink, to red; then from red to purple. Mel just laid her head back and looked up at him, catching his eyes with hers, "Hmm, I want you to cum on my face lover. Cover me with that hot load of cum and show me just how much you love fucking my tits!"Phil wasn't expecting to hear that, but it fit; and encouraged on as she kept telling him to cum on her face, he began to rapidly stroke through her soft tits. Soon after, she got her wish, as he pulled his cock free, grabbed his shaft, and began to spurt the waiting load all over her face. He took aim as best as he could, managing to get the majority of the load to hit her in the face and in her hair. Not able to resist, Phil then leaned in to tap the tip of his cock against her chin, and then feed her the cum coated head.She suckled the head clean of cum, then rubbed her tongue under his tip for a while, as he softened. Then she let it slip free from her mouth. His semen dripping down her face felt odd at first, it was the only time she'd ever let a guy give her a facial, but she could get to like it. The man-show she was treated to, was priceless. The empowerment of knowing she aroused the masculine spectacle, made her feel sexually potent.Once he'd gotten off of her, she rose up, giggling, and made her way to the bathroom, taking her time in the shower to wash her face and scrub down a little bit. By the time her face was rinsed in the steamy shower, she felt a pair of hands on her hips. Turning around to welcome him with a kiss, she was surprised to find his tongue was already between her thighs. She reached one hand to his head while her other hand swiftly knocked two plastic bottles off the corner shower seat, then sit down on the edge of the seat. The large tiled shower allowed her to spread her legs. It was Phil's opportunity to pleasure her body. “I didn't know a Ginger bush could be so bright.” Phil said.“I didn't realize how big a bush could grow, either” Mel admitted to her lapsed mowing schedule.“Do you keep your bush this full?” He asked.“God, no! In fact, I was half thinking of making you wait longer, while I was changing out of my work clothes, last night.”“I'm a really good barber. Can I give you a shave & a facial?” He said with eager delight.“Uh, if you're good, you might get some repeat business. Are you up for auditioning?” She challenged him.“With your guidance and preferred tools, I'll be delighted.”Mel stood and reached out to her cabinet and retrieved a cordless trimmer & some baby oil. She sat back down and turned off the shower. Then gave Phil step by step coaching as he first removed the long lochs with the cordless clippers. Then he used her disposable razor to shave most of her mound and labia, leaving the clitoral strip alone. Finally, he massaged her entire region with baby oil. He used one hand to set the tools outside the shower as his other hand was continuing a deep massage of her clit & g-spot, simultaneously. As her breathing indicated greater arousal, Phil opened his mouth to suck on her stiffened clit. His hand stayed just below, to continue giving attention to her g-spot. His other hand slid up her torso, to find a wanting nipple to rub & softly pinch.The baby oil and shave added new sensitivity. The steamy bathroom caressed their bodies in warmth. Mel continued to immerse herself in these pleasures from her holiday lover. Phil intensified his efforts as he sensed her impending climax. Then, her body tensed and her breath was held. Her cunt began to tremor, and her body expelled a gush of fluids onto Phil's chin, and the finger he explored her cunt with. It flowed down his arm & neck. Phil clamped his lips hard on Mel's clit. She grabbed his head with both hands and pressed him firmly to her cunt.As the intensity waned, she released his head. Phil looked up, into her sated eyes. A drip hung from his chin, then fell to the tile. “How was that?” Phil asked.“Best damn shave & facial I've ever had!” Mel said with resolve and delight.Soon she stood and turned on the shower. They locked in a steamy wet embrace and shared a deep French kiss. Coming up for air, Mel took a scrubber pouf and lathered up his entire body. Then Phil did the same. They rinsed and stepped out, where they toweled each other off. He exited to dress, as she attended her bathroom rituals.She finished and made her way to the kitchen, the smell of coffee already wafted in the air. "I see you found the coffee pot," she smiled and wandered over to take a seat upon the counter."Aye, well it wasn't too terribly hidden," he walked over and wrapped his arms around her, holding her close. "You know, I could get used to this.""Umm, a slutty girl that wakes you with sucking your cock then lets you fuck her tits and coat her face in your cum? What's there not to get used to?" She grinned at him, "Now so long as you were oh, willing to continue bathing me up with a tongue up my snatch, we might have a deal.""I think we could arrange something like that," he grinned."Did you, umm, want to come back after you took care of the mare? Maybe we could do a little Christmas dinner?"He gave her a soft kiss, "Would love to. And considering right now I smell like cum and cunt, I don't think smelling like a girl is too high on my list of concerns."After a couple of cups of coffee, the two of them left the condo heading in different directions. He was off to the school's barns and she was off to the local grocery store, thankful that it would be open for a few hours during the daytime. Grabbing a cart, she dashed through the store, picking up the few odds and ends and one of the last fresh turkeys sitting on the shelves. It was a little larger than she wanted but in the end she was just happy to have it. Once the groceries were gathered, off to home she scooted to spend the day cooking and listening to Christmas music thinking of the things that were to come.It took about an hour longer than he expected, but once things were wrapped up at the stables Phil hopped the nearest bus back to Mel's condo. He felt a little bad showing up smelling like the stables but being a fan of horses he figured she would understand. That and he just plain rather be at her place than anywhere else for the rest of the day.Once the turkey was set in the oven, Mel worked on the house, doing more than the usual straightening. She even added a few more holiday decorating touches. Realizing that the hot kitchen abd housework built up a sweat, she scampered off to the bathroom to give herself a bit of much wanted pampering. The stereo pumped out Christmas songs while she drew a steaming hot scented bath, lit several candles, and broke out her favorite shower gel. Then slowly she lowered her body into the water and sighed contentedly.Another scrubbing was given to her body, she leaned back and just soaked in the tub. When the water finally threatened to get chilly, Mel gave her hair a thorough washing then climbed out to dry off and give herself a coating of lotion. She gave into the temptation to be lazy and wrapped herself up in a soft terry cloth robe before crashing in front of the tv to watch a parade.A quick stop off at the store delayed his return, but finally Phil found himself standing at her door, hoping she hadn't changed her mind, and knocking softly.She woke with a start on the couch, somewhere between the King Kong balloon and one of the dancing displays, she'd passed out. When the second knock at the door came she jumped up and yelled, "Coming!" In front of a mirror she paused to fluff her hair a bit, but it had dried while she slept and looked quite messy. Another couple of seconds were spent fixing her dressing robe, at least so that the neighbors didn't catch a view she didn't want them to, and finally to the door. Out of the peephole she looked, smiled to herself, and then opened the door hiding all but her leaning head behind it. "Hey. Come on in."In he stepped, pausing for a moment as he suddenly realized how unsure he was of the nature of their relationship. For a second or two he just looked at her, then lightly smiled to himself and leaned in to kiss her.She blinked, having felt the sudden awkwardness as well, and almost sighed in relief when he leaned in. Mel leaned into the kiss, leaving it only brief, and turned to head into the kitchen to check the turkey, very glad that she'd set the alarm, and so at least knew it wasn't ruined. "How was the mare? Making any progress?"He just smiled at the way she acted, in some ways if he hadn't of known any better, it would have felt like they'd been in a relationship for a while, and at the moment that felt right. Into the kitchen he followed her, taking in a deep smell of the roasting turkey. His right hand lifted and placed the pair of bags onto the counter, "the things you wanted me to pick up from the market."They settled into making dinner, once he got the chance to remove his jacket and shoes. Peeks were snuck every time her robe moved in just the right way and he wondered if she'd worn it just to be able to tease him with. Mel quickly figured out he was taking sneak peeks at her whenever the material slid against the belt and started to make a game out of it, teasing him with the occasional look.When the food got to a point where everything that needed to be cooking was, and they had a little bit of time to spare, Mel got a little grin on her face. She glanced over to Phil, "So, how would you like an early appetizer?" When he agreed, she grabbed a towel and left the kitchen. Setting the towel on the armrest, she sat upon the side of the couch, pulled apart her robe and spread her legs, "Have a taste, lover." Admittedly she had to hold down the giggle at how cheesy it was, but it was fun to say. Leaving her ass up on the armrest, she lowered her body back, and supported her body with her hands on the cushions. He legs dangled off the floor.He laughed at the cheesy statement but that didn't last long as he eagerly took up her offer, and slipped between her thighs. Soft kisses were placed along her inner thigh, up and down between cunt and knee, to tease her till he couldn't resist anymore. He plunged his tongue into her sweet hole and licked up, flicking the tip against her clit. Down to the floor he kneeled and rested her legs upon his shoulders while he lapped away at her cunt. Fingers played occasionally with her clit and gently teased against her wet hole before working a pair in.His lips focused more on her clit while he began to gently finger her twat, till he found just the way that she liked to be touched. The pace began to increase to a comfortable rhythm and suction was applied to the hardened nub while his tongue traced the alphabet upon her clit. He used his other arm to keep her thighs separate as her thighs, strengthened from riding, had begun to reflexively squeeze upon his head. The tighter she squeezed the closer he knew she was. Just when he thought he couldn't hold back much longer she let out a loud, guttural scream and his fingers were coated with a layer of her slick cum.She leaned back against her hands, panting and savoring the afterglow of her orgasm. It's been too long, she thought, too many months, years; since she'd enjoyed getting her cunt eaten and he'd gone right down twice, today. Maybe he was indeed a keeper, she mused to herself as she watched him get up, wash himself of her cum, and then tend to the meal. Only time would tell, but for this Christmas he was certainly what she'd needed and she stifled her giggle at the thought that maybe Santa had brought him early.At dinner they stuffed themselves, sharing stories, hers from the military and his from grad school. When the meal had been put away, they retreated to the living room and this time she curled right up against him instead of playing the waiting game. Somewhere along the way he'd lost his pants, perhaps after his second helping of mashed turnips, not that she could speak still clothed in her robe. As the movies played they teased each other, her occasionally stealing gropes of his boxer clad cock and him tracing circles along her navel and breasts.By the time the second movie ended it was drawing late, well late enough for the two to excuse themselves to bed, and she half dragged him to the bedroom. With a slightly hard push, Mel threw him upon his back on the bed. She slipped out of her robe and strode over to him, crawling up on the bed towards his torso. Fingers slipped into his boxers and pulled them down, letting his cock spring forth. Up to her knees she got and moved forwards till she was over his waiting member. Without waiting, she plunged down, taking his full length in one smooth stroke.Leaning forwards she rested against her hands and began to bounce her hips, riding his cock. Her world-class breasts swayed in front of him and her wavy red hair hung down, framing his face. Mel stared at him, bouncing as fast as she could without fear of dislodging him, savoring the feeling of his cock stretching her tunnel and drinking in the looks on his face as she did so. Through two orgasms she rode him till his hands grabbed her ass and pulled her down hard, just before filling her with his spunk. She held him in for a few moments longer till regretfully letting go of his cock and rolling over to the bed. Instantly she snuggled up against his body while pulling up the blankets to cover them. Her ass was wedged against his groin. His arm was over her, and cupping a boob. She raised her leg and reached way down, finding his flaccid cock. She tucked it tight against her cunt and lowered her leg back down.“Making sure your cock remains warm and comforted, Phil. Good night dear.” Her last thought was of his steady heartbeat against her ear. This became a nightly tradition over the next several days of Christmas break."3, 2, 1, Happy New Year!" Came the cheers from the television, not that Mel heard, because just when the ball hit bottom, she screamed in orgasm while getting pounded from behind. Phil had a tight hold on her hips and kept slamming deep into her, driving her through three more orgasms before pulling out and spraying his load over her ass and back. Both collapsed upon the bed, panting and grinning. She leaned over to give him a tender kiss, "Now That, is the way to bring in the New Year!" A great year, and a loving, passionate, new love affair.By JagFarlane for Literotica.

Xperi Corp. SVP/Broadcast Radio and Digital Audio Joe D'Angelo is readying for a big CES 2025, which officially opens on January 7 across a wide swath of Las Vegas.In this exclusive conversation, D'Angelo shares in this InFOCUS Podcast, presented by dot.FM, what's in store for the broadcast media industry at this year's Consumer Electronics Show and offers hints that DTS AutoStage, HD Radio and TiVO are on track for a big year ahead.

Summary In this episode of the Sorry We're Closed podcast, hosts Pat Light and TiVo discuss a variety of topics ranging from the impact of AI on business, employee expectations for raises, and the growth of their social media presence. They delve into economic sentiments, the psychology behind consumer debt, and investment strategies, particularly in the context of the current market landscape. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the underlying assets in investments and the potential for business growth despite economic challenges. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various investment strategies, the impact of market opportunities, and the role of billionaires in politics. They delve into the concept of deferred money in sports contracts, particularly focusing on the Dodgers' approach. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding market dynamics and the potential for wealth creation through informed investment decisions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Hosts 02:55 Exploring AI and Its Impact 05:51 Social Media Recognition and Growth 08:57 Employee Expectations for Raises 11:49 Business Growth and Economic Sentiment 15:04 Credit Card Debt and Consumer Psychology 17:52 Investment Strategies and Market Insights 28:20 Investment Strategies and Market Opportunities 36:14 Contrarian Views in Investing 46:30 The Role of Billionaires in Politics 57:09 Deferred Money in Sports Contracts Newsletter https://t.co/FJ2fkNOkeM YouTube and Socials https://mtr.bio/sorry-were-closed-Pod

Dive into a master class in product leadership with this special "super episode" of the Product Talk podcast. Hosted by one of the first Chief Product Officers in the world and Products That Count's Resident CPO Renée Niemi, this curated discussion features defining career moments from some of the top CPOs across diverse industries. Get ready for a playbook on becoming a world-class Chief Product Officer, as Renée guides you through the unique journeys of leaders from Disney, NBC Universal, Altria, and Extreme Networks. Uncover the invaluable insights that have shaped their approaches to product management, innovation, and leadership. Hear from: - Siddharth Mantri, former CPO of Disney Plus for emerging markets, who reveals how he customized the streaming giant's product for international markets. - James Denney from NBC Universal, who reflects on his path from TiVo to leading the Olympic streaming innovations. - Olivier Houpert, who transitioned from Procter & Gamble to become the CPO at Altria, and shares how a clear company purpose has driven his work. - David Feuer from Galileo Financial Technologies, who recounts his pivotal move from engineering to product management. - Nabil Bukhari from Extreme Networks, who highlights a transformative moment that underscored the impact of human-centered product development. This special "super episode" is a must-listen for anyone aspiring to become a top Chief Product Officer. Get ready to be inspired and equipped with a playbook for your own product leadership journey.

As the weather cools down, you might find yourself glued to the television, bundled up. Kelly and Ali talk about their favorite shows, the return of Squid Game, the stupidity of The Bachelor and MORE! Tune into this TV episode.

On this week's show we take a look at a device that claims it will flatten your warped vinyl. Then we ask is there anything that can be done to prevent subscribers from pausing the streaming services. We also read your email and take a look at the week's news. News: Xumo expands retail scope with Target deal Matter 1.4 now supports more smart home devices and adds new capabilities TiVo to launch smart TVs in US by year-end Apple Set For Smart Home Revolution Other: Cosm LG Display's stretchable screen is now even stretchier - The Verge Record Pi Vinyl Flattener A couple of episodes ago we talked about a turntable that uses suction to make warped records flat. Ara joked about taking a blow dryer and heating up the record and then just unwarping it. Well it turns out that there is a product that essentially does this. One of our listeners, Matthew Dropco, pointed us to a product that flattens your vinyl! The Record Pi ($275) vinyl flattener is an innovative solution tailored for fixing warped vinyl records, featuring a patent-pending integrated system comprising three essential components: the Record Pi Device, Record Pi Temperature Controller, and Record Pi Heating Case. The Record Pi Device is engineered using premium steel alloy, ensuring an even distribution of heat while securely holding the record to apply uniform flattening pressure with heavy metal alloy plates and protective Groove Guards. The Temperature Controller offers precise temperature regulation within 1°F of the target range of 100 to 145°F, allowing users to remotely adjust settings via internet connectivity using either Google Android or Apple iOS devices, provided a compatible Wi-Fi router is available. The Record Pi Heating Case not only warms the device during use but also serves as a practical storage solution when not in operation. The product comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee (with the buyer covering return shipping) and a two-year limited warranty, providing confidence in its durability and effectiveness. Weighing 16 lbs, the Record Pi is designed for US standard voltage of 110V but can also be used internationally with the appropriate voltage converter, ensuring its versatility for vinyl enthusiasts everywhere. What can streaming services do to keep customers from pausing subscriptions? We found an article over at TheStreamable.com opining about “What can streaming services do to keep customers from pausing subscriptions”. We have some thoughts on this as well!  As streaming services in the U.S. approach market saturation, the focus has shifted from acquiring new customers to retaining current ones. Recent data reveals a significant rise in viewers pausing their subscriptions, increasing from 29.8% in 2022 to 34.2% in early 2024. Many consumers are not dissatisfied with their services; rather, they find it hard to justify the cost until new desirable content is available. To address this issue, streaming providers are exploring various strategies. Current efforts include enhancing bundling options, as surveys indicate that bundled services can significantly decrease cancellations. Recent bundles, such as the Disney+, Hulu, and Max combination, aim to encourage user loyalty. Additional strategies could involve allowing customers to temporarily pause their subscriptions while keeping their accounts active. For example, Hulu could offer a one-time 30-day pause option at a lower rate, such as on an ad-supported plan, to keep users engaged without full financial commitment. Overall, creative retention strategies beyond simple discounts may be essential for preventing subscription pauses.  

Olivia Rodrigo thought she was getting arrested at the Canada/US Border. Mike has the Dirt Alert and we talk everyone's favorite OG Digital TV Recorder; TiVO. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Olivia Rodrigo thought she was getting arrested at the Canada/US Border. Mike has the Dirt Alert and we talk everyone's favorite OG Digital TV Recorder; TiVO. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Net Takeaways, BJ and Isaiah bring their A-game with a nostalgic and insightful look into the evolving world of retail and community spaces.Topics Covered:Opening Banter: BJ and Isaiah share a trip down memory lane, discussing the days of TiVo, VHS, and the lost art of waiting for Saturday morning cartoons. This sets the stage for a conversation about how our relationship with “waiting” and “experience” has shifted.Starbucks' Identity Crisis: With sales sliding and a new CEO at the helm, Starbucks is at a critical juncture. BJ and Isaiah discuss the potential causes—rising prices, complex menus, and, most notably, the impact of mobile ordering. Isaiah shares his hot take: mobile ordering may be undermining Starbucks' coffeehouse vibe, making the once community-centered space feel more transactional.Possible Solutions for Starbucks: The hosts explore how Starbucks could bring back the coffeehouse experience by rethinking their store layouts. Ideas include separating mobile order pickups to reduce congestion and possibly creating distinct community-focused locations, similar to Chipotle's “Chipotlane” model for efficient ordering.Retail Success through Community Vibes: BJ and Isaiah contrast Starbucks' challenges with the successful community-centric models of brands like Barnes & Noble, which has revived its “local bookstore” feel, and high-end shopping centers like The Grove, which prioritize experience over pure convenience.McDonald's & Krispy Kreme Partnership: The duo analyzes McDonald's decision to bring Krispy Kreme donuts into select stores, framing it as a smart move to broaden their breakfast appeal and drive coffee sales. They discuss how strategic partnerships like this can create memorable customer experiences without losing brand identity.Key Takeaways:Balancing Convenience with Experience: Retailers face a challenge: customers want convenience, but also crave community. Brands that find the right balance, like Barnes & Noble, are thriving.Strategic Partnerships Matter: McDonald's collaboration with Krispy Kreme exemplifies how two brands can enhance each other's value, broaden customer reach, and drive sales—without losing their unique identities.Retailers Must Reevaluate Physical Spaces: As consumer expectations evolve, traditional retailers like Starbucks need to rethink their physical spaces to foster community, create meaningful experiences, and avoid becoming purely transactional.Join BJ and Isaiah as they break down what's working in retail and what's not, with plenty of humor, hot takes, and memorable references along the way!

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There's No Stopping the Rampant Ridiculous Karel Cast 24-134 Streaming services are now ridiculous. We pay a streaming service to watch their shows and they now serve us ads. Tivo and cable were, in fact, better. We watched what we wanted when we wanted and fast-forwarded through the ads. So why don't we go back? Café Bastille in San Francisco is closing...because of lack of business. Restaurants all over Vegas are closing. They're blaming a lot ... but what' s really to blame? The cost. And our habits have changed post pandemic. So where are we eating now? Verizon went down and millions across the country had no phones. Why don't we all have satellite phone capability or minimally why don't cell phone companies have satellite backup? Watch the Karel Cast M-F at reallykarel.com or youtube.com/reallykarel and listen on all your favorite streaming services including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Media and more. Support the show at patreon.com/reallykarel The Karel Cast is supported by you at patreon.com/reallykarel Please donate even just $5 a month to help keep the antics of this big gay guy and his little dog Ember going strong in Las Vegas. https://youtube.com/live/Ys0sHHN_eSk

How can product leaders deliver exceptional customer experiences? In this episode of the CPO Rising Series hosted by Products That Count Resident CPO Renee Niemi, NBCUniversal CPO Jim Denney shares insights on driving innovation and delivering exceptional customer experiences, drawing from his experience leading products like Peacock, Fandango, and the Olympics streaming coverage. He discusses his career journey and defining product experiences at TiVo and NBCUniversal, the innovations in the Olympics streaming experience and the importance of user control, the balance of art and science in product management including the role of AI, best practices for building a high-performing product team and driving accountability, and the future of product management and why it won't be replaced by bots anytime soon.

Get two GenX Swifties together and what do you expect... not this! Jordan and her friend Seth Shapiro go deep in the most dense, fascinating conversation -- packed with alpha regarding the landscape of media, blockchain and of course... Taylor Swift. ...... Brought to you by The Squad. ------------------------------- JORDAN BAYNE OFFICIAL WEBSITE ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.jordanbayne.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TWITTER ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/jordanbayne⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ INSTAGRAM ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jordan_bayne⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LINKEDIN ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-bayne⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ------------------------------ The Film3 OG and the Next Wave of Cinema Podcast is hosted by Jordan Bayne, the award winning filmmaker and thought leader behind the Film3 Movement. This podcast has conversations with the cutting edge thought leaders, artists, filmmakers and creators who are trailblazing the Film3 Movement alongside Jordan and The Squad to create a better future for filmmakers. ------------------------------ RESOURCE LINKS THE SQUAD OFFICIAL WEBSITE ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.filmsquad.io⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ THE SQUAD TWITTER ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/Film3Squad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ THE SQUAD DISCORD ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠discord.gg/K9DEfNaSYn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ THE SQUAD INSTAGRAM ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/film3squad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ THE SQUAD YOUTUBE ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF-bQ4_cNRth0XE-C60wzvw⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SETH SHAPIRO Twitter: https://x.com/SethShapiroTV Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sethshapiro/ Tiktok: @sethshapiroTV ------------------------------ BIO: SETH SHAPIRO Senior Advisor and Investor ·      Global Leader in Media and Entertainment Strategy ·      Media Historian and Author ·      Two-time Emmy® Award winner ·      Former USC Professor ·      Former Executive: The Walt Disney Company, News Corp/FOX, Comcast NBCU ·      Former Television Academy Governor and Executive committee member ·      Music Producer/composer   Two-time Emmy® winner Seth Shapiro is a global leader in innovation applications of technology to media. He has worked with AT&T, Comcast, DIRECTV, Disney, FOX, Goldman Sachs, IBM, Intel, IPG, McCann, NBC, Telstra, Turner and Universal as well as a wide range of universities, government bodies and NGOs. Mr. Shapiro was previously Adjunct Professor at USC and a Governor of The Television Academy the home of the Emmys. His book, TELEVISION Volume 1 is a definitive history of the media business. A professional equity options trader, Mr. Shapiro became an advocate of blockchain tech for major media in 2016. He is currently a Partner at Alpha Transform and Alphabit Fund Ltd; Senior Advisor to the Shiba Inu Foundation, an M&E advisor to Avalanche Networks; and an Advisor to tech companies including K9 Finance and Pwr Chain. In the public sphere, Mr. Shapiro has served as an Expert before both the Department of Justice and the Federal Communications Commission. As Head of Production at DIRECTV Advanced Services, he launched over 25 services, including TiVo by DIRECTV, the world's first major DVR platform. Prior to joining DIRECTV, he was a Senior Producer of Games at The Walt Disney Company. Click SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an episode.

Welcome to Enthusiasm Curbed, where we watch the 6th season of Curb Your Enthusiasm because Brandon loves this show. In this episode, we discuss episodes seven and eight of season 6: The TiVo Guy and The N Word. Twitter: @RTOPodcasts, @ThatCoolBlkNerd, @Scarfinger, @RatchetBookClub Become a Patron at http://www.Patreon.com/singlesimulcast Donate to the show at http://www.buymeacoffee.com/sscast

Welcome to Enthusiasm Curbed, where we watch the 6th season of Curb Your Enthusiasm because Brandon loves this show. In this episode, we discuss episodes seven and eight of season 6: The TiVo Guy and The N Word. Twitter: @RTOPodcasts, @ThatCoolBlkNerd, @Scarfinger, @RatchetBookClub Become a Patron at http://www.Patreon.com/singlesimulcast Donate to the show at http://www.buymeacoffee.com/sscast

Join Brian and Bernie Maloney as they explore the transformative power of mental models, emphasizing the shift from a mechanistic to an organic mindset in Agile organizations. Overview In this episode, Brian and Bernie Maloney discuss the profound impact of mental models on organizational culture. Bernie delves into how our beliefs and assumptions shape our thinking and behavior, particularly within Agile environments. He discusses the importance of transitioning from a mechanistic to an organic mindset, focusing on problem-solving rather than merely delivering solutions. The conversation also highlights the role of psychological safety in fostering a culture of experimentation and learning. Bernie shares valuable resources, including Amy Edmondson's 'The Right Kind of Wrong,' to further explore these concepts. Tune in for insightful strategies for enhancing your organization's agility and effectiveness. Listen Now to Discover: [1:03] - Brian welcomes Certified Scrum Trainer® and Principal at Power By Teams, Bernie Maloney, to the show. [2:15] - Bernie delves into the concept of mental models, sharing the origins of his philosophy of "making new mistakes" developed during his time at Hewlett Packard. [5:55] - Bernie illustrates the power of mental models and belief by sharing a compelling example that brings these concepts to life. [13:46] - Join us for a Certified Scrum Product Owner® Training, where a year of coaching and development with Mike Cohn, Brian, and the Agile Mentors Community of Agile leaders is included with your training. [14:39] - Bernie discusses how applying mental models can enhance the effectiveness of Agile transformations, creating a naturally adaptive and innovative climate. [18:12] - Bernie offers language as a powerful tool to support the shift to a new Mental Model. [23:30] - Bernie demonstrates the use of mental models for product owners through the Mobius Loop, providing actionable guidance and examples [26:27] - Brian shares a big thank you to Bernie for joining him on the show. [26:59] - If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend, and like and subscribe to the Agile Mentors Podcast so you never miss a new episode. [27:27] - If you’d like to continue this discussion, join the Agile Mentors Community. You get a year of free membership to that site by taking any class with Mountain Goat Software, such as CSM, CSPO, or Mike Cohn’s Better User Stories Course. We'd love to see you in one of Mountain Goat Software's classes. You can find the schedule here. References and resources mentioned in the show: Bernie Maloney Power By Teams Mobius Loop The Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well by Amy Edmondson Agile Teams Learn From Spikes: Time Boxed Research Activities by Mike Cohn Certified Scrum Product Owner® Training Certified ScrumMaster® Training and Scrum Certification Mike Cohn’s Better User Stories Course Mountain Goat Software Certified Scrum and Agile Training Schedule Join the Agile Mentors Community Subscribe to the Agile Mentors Podcast Want to get involved? This show is designed for you, and we’d love your input. Enjoyed what you heard today? Please leave a rating and a review. It really helps, and we read every single one. Got an Agile subject you’d like us to discuss or a question that needs an answer? Share your thoughts with us at podcast@mountaingoatsoftware.com This episode’s presenters are: Brian Milner is SVP of coaching and training at Mountain Goat Software. He's passionate about making a difference in people's day-to-day work, influenced by his own experience of transitioning to Scrum and seeing improvements in work/life balance, honesty, respect, and the quality of work. Bernie Maloney is an Agile leadership coach and international speaker, leverages his 25 years of engineering and leadership experience to help teams and organizations unlock their full potential. Known for his engaging workshops and impactful coaching, Bernie believes in making performance breakthroughs both achievable and enjoyable. Auto-generated Transcript: Brian (00:00) Welcome in Agile Mentors. We are back for another episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast. I am with you as always, Brian Milner. And today I have a very special guest with me. I have Mr. Bernie Maloney with me. Welcome in, Bernie. I am. Bernie Maloney (00:14) Thanks, Brian. Happy to be here. Brian (00:16) Great. I'm so excited to have Bernie here. Bernie and I have touched base for years over conferences. We've run into each other and had chats and shared our shared passion for Hawaii and other things. But Bernie was speaking at the recent conference and we've gotten into some conversations. I wanted him to come on because I wanted him to, first of all, if you're not familiar with Bernie, sorry, I see, I just want to jump right into it. If you're not familiar with Bernie, Bernie is a CST. He works at a company called Powered by Teams. He teaches classes, Scrum Master product owner classes and leadership classes and other things as well. But he is a principal at Powered by Teams. So just wanted to give you the basics there before we dive into anything. But the topic that we started to talk about that just as a jumping off place for us is a topic. the topic of mental models. So Bernie, why don't you explain to everyone how you define that, mental models. Bernie Maloney (01:23) So, Brian, this is a great topic. I find myself talking about it all the time. And y 'all, I warned Brian, like, he can press play on this, and it might be 15 minutes before he gets a word in edgewise here. It touches on mindset. It touches on a lot of topics. My talk that Brian was referencing at the recent Scrum gathering in New Orleans was make new mistakes, leadership lessons from an Agile success. which goes back to where I really kind of cut my teeth in Agile at Hewlett Packard. See, I'm a mechanical engineer by training. And I cut my teeth in Agile in the consumer PC division at HP about, this is scary to say y 'all, okay, about 27 years ago starting at this point. And some of the fun stuff, it was a bang up enterprise. It was the fastest business in HP's history to hit a billion dollars. And it was just... Brian (02:05) Yeah. Bernie Maloney (02:18) a great proving ground. We had hardware, we had software, we had distributed teams where volume manufacturing was in Asia, engineering was here where I am in Silicon Valley. Go -to -market for Europe was in Grenoble, France. We had high volume. Some of our products had 100 ,000 units in a single model run, with like 200 models in Europe on a quarterly basis at times. So high volume, high mix, tight margins from a business perspective. A lot of technology products want to have 20 % to 30 % gross margins. That's before you start taking off deductions like expenses and salaries and things like that. On a good day, we had 8 % gross margins for Christmas products, maybe 2 % gross margins. We used to refer to it as we were shipping rotting bananas. And like I said, I was there. When I started, we were shipping six products a quarter. We grew to 20. By the time I left after eight years, we were doing 200 products a quarter in Europe alone. Brian (03:04) Ha ha. Bernie Maloney (03:16) hardware, software, distributed teams, high volume, high mix. And we did all that with weekly iterations of a plan. At one point in my career, I was tactically responsible for the delivery of 2 % of HP's top line revenue with zero direct reports. And part of the secret sauce of success in that organization was really that mental model of make new mistakes. So that's where the talk title comes from. And in fact, makenewmistakes .com will point to poweredbyteams .com because I own that domain too. But that mental model really helped the organization thrive and not just survive. We went from like a number one to a number five share. Sorry, from a number five to a number one the other way around. Because the founding executives recognized that in that tide of a market, mistakes were probably going to happen. And so what they did is they established the psychological safety. Wow, look, there's another great topic. Make new mistakes. You knew that if it was an honest mistake, it would be forgiven. Just don't make it again. Get the lesson is one of the things that they said. I can even tell you the story about the weekend I blew a million dollars of HP's money and I was forgiven, but you'll have to come to a conference talk for that. So that was just like a great experience. And... Brian (04:32) Wow. Bernie Maloney (04:39) After that experience, I went on to TVs. Another part of my background is I shipped the very first internet connected TVs. Look it up, the Media Smart 3760 from HP. It shipped even before Apple TV. It bombed. Okay, it was way ahead of its time. But I recognized that that had been such a joyride. And then I recognized some other stuff that really gets into the psychological, the mental aspects of leadership, high performing teams. And I could, Brian, I could talk about that too, but okay. But that kind of got me to recognize that with those skills, the success that I had experienced at HP could probably be replicated. That's kind of been the path that I've been on for the past 15 years is really helping organizations go along that path. So mental models can be really big. Let me give everybody here an example. And so Brian, I'm going to speak to you as a way of illustrating mental models. So imagine you are physically where you are right now. Brian (05:24) Yeah. Bernie Maloney (05:37) but it is 150 years ago, okay? Imagine you're physically where you are right now, but it's 150 years ago. Now, Brian, let me ask you, can man fly? Brian (05:47) boy, you're testing my history knowledge. Bernie Maloney (05:52) Okay, make it 200 years ago, okay? That makes it easier. Okay, cool. Great, now fast forward to the present. Brian, let me ask you, can man fly? Brian (05:54) No, yeah, no. Yes. Bernie Maloney (06:02) What changed? Nothing about the laws of physical reality. It was just your mental model of what for man to fly means. That's the power of belief, okay? And belief limits a whole bunch of stuff in the way that people behave. So you'll hear Agilent talk all the time about, this is all about changing mindset. I'm probably, Brian, gonna give your listeners some ways of. Brian (06:06) invention. Bernie Maloney (06:30) changing mindset as we go through this, but that's going to illustrate the power of mental models. Now, a big one that I like to use that's specific to Agile comes from Gabby Benefield. She's an Agilist out of the UK, and it's called the Mobius Loop. And I think she's got the domain mobiusloop .com. So everybody can imagine a Mobius Loop. Okay. And what I really like about this model for her... Brian (06:32) Sure, yeah, please. Yeah. Bernie Maloney (06:56) i s the right -hand half is what a lot of organizations think Agile is. Build, measure, learn, build, measure, learn. The whole idea of the build trap that we talk about in Agile. It's all about the delivery of a solution. Okay? But the left -hand half is all about the discovery of the problem. Okay? And the discovery of the customer. And that's a part of Agile too that most organizations overlook. So you got to ask why. And it comes down to kind of mental models. So when I was at Persistent, if you go look me up on LinkedIn, you'll find some of my employment history. I was at Persistent for a while. They had a really good mental model. And it's something I still use when I go into a client. And they would talk about there's kind of three eras of a company culture. And so culture is really the environment that an organization lives within. And there's an era. where cultures were formed before the internet. So things like finance and government and mining and manufacturing and oil and gas field developed. I mean, I've had clients in all of these areas. And in that sort of an environment, okay, it was, well, an era. One of the things I'll ask, and Brian, I'll kind of like let you represent the audience. Would you say in general, the people that you work with, the markets that they serve, Are they moving faster and all up into a thumbs up, slower, thumbs down, or about the same, thumbs sideways? Are the markets moving faster, slower, or about the same as they were, say, five or 10 years ago? Brian (08:32) I think everything's moving faster, yeah. Bernie Maloney (08:34) Cool. Okay. Now, how about the technology that your clients use to solve problems for that market? You know, moving faster, thumbs up, slower, thumbs down, or about the same as it was, say, five or 10 years ago. Faster. Yeah, cool. Okay. Now, when things are moving faster, thumbs up for yes, thumbs down for no. Do they always move in a straight line? Brian (08:46) No, faster. No, not always. Bernie Maloney (08:56) Okay, cool. So now things are moving faster, but they're not moving in a straight line. So let me ask you, do most organizations try and plan and predict? Is it possible for you to plan and predict when things are moving faster and they're not moving in a straight line? Is it easier or harder to plan and predict? Brian (09:19) I think it's definitely harder. Bernie Maloney (09:21) Yeah, but organizations are trying to do that, aren't they? And it's because their mental model is as a machine. So organizations born before the internet have a mental model of the entire organizational system being a machine, the industrial age, which you can plan and predict. They treat people like cogs in a machine. In fact, the thing that us Agilists will say is, when you say resources, did you mean people? See, that's... Brian (09:35) Yeah. Bernie Maloney (09:50) That's kind of now we're starting to get into some of the culture aspects of this because language actually forms culture. And so you'll hear Angela say, did you mean people? Like when that whole word of resources comes up. But organizations born before the internet, they've got one culture. Okay, they were born in an era of plan and predict. They've got a mental model of the system being a machine. And your listeners would probably agree most of them struggle with Agile. Okay, now there's another era born in the internet but not the cloud. So some examples like here in Silicon Valley, Cisco, PayPal, okay, lots of us have had exposure to them and lots of us recognize they still struggle with agile because agile wasn't really fully formed and articulated. Then there are organizations that were born in the cloud and so places like Striper Square and I use payments because I've had... clients in finance across all three of these eras. So Stripe or Square, they were born in the cloud where things were almost natively agile because the Agile Manifesto had been published by that point. They just inherently get agile. So these mental models of your organizational system being a machine get reflected in the language. So things like people or resources, it turns them into objects. It enables something I've heard called pencil management. Wear them down to a nub, go get a new one. In fact, if you do the research on where the word resources was first applied to human beings, it might shock some people. So I don't talk about that openly. They'll have to find me privately. I'll be happy to point you out the reference. And once I do, it's like, ooh. But one of the jokes I'll crack. And this is one of the ways that you can start to shift the language. If people call you resources, because you know that turns you into an object, start calling them overhead. Brian (11:23) Yeah. Ha ha ha. Bernie Maloney (11:48) Okay, it can kind of make the difference there. Okay, so, but you know, if things are moving faster and they're harder to plan and predict, that mental model needs to shift. In fact, in agile, we talk about you need to move to sense and respond. When things are moving faster, it's kind of like Gretzky, skate to where the puck is going. You need to sense and respond to the situation. So a better mental model instead of a mechanism is an organism. Because think about organisms, like cut yourself, it heals, okay? It senses and responds. Or like a forest fire comes in, wipes things out, and nature always kind of fills things back in. Sense and respond. This gets reflected in the language. So Brian, do your clients talk about metrics? Brian (12:37) Of course, yes. Bernie Maloney (12:38) Okay, cool. So do they talk about efficiency? Brian (12:41) I would say a lot of businesses will talk about that. Yeah, sure. Bernie Maloney (12:44) Yeah, cool. That's the language of machines. Probably better language is diagnostics instead of metrics. That invokes some of the curiosity. And probably instead of efficiency is effectiveness. One of the things I'll say is scrum is not efficient. It's not about utilization of capacity. It's about the production of value, which is all about effectiveness. See, efficiency or effective. Do you go to your doctor for an efficient treatment? or ineffective treatment, Brian. Brian (13:16) Effective, hopefully. Bernie Maloney (13:17) Awesome. Do you go for blood metrics or blood diagnostics? Brian (13:21) Yeah, diagnostics for sure. Bernie Maloney (13:23) Yeah, so now you're starting to get some hints about how you can start to shift the mental model. What you're really doing with Agile, y 'all, is you're shifting the culture, and culture is hard because it's not visible. The tools, the processes, the practices that folks like Brian and I will teach and coach, they're super visible, they're super valuable, but they're often not enough to start to change things. So, Brian, would you say most of your listeners are familiar? familiar with the language of Tuchman of forming, storming, norming, and performing. Brian (13:56) I'd say there's probably a good percentage, yeah. Bernie Maloney (13:58) Cool. I actually like to draw a Satir curve. So Bruce Tuckman, Virginia Satir, they were contemporaries. They were both just researching human systems. So Virginia did a performance axis on the vertical and a time axis on the horizontal. And the way Virginia described it is you're kind of going along in a certain status quo. And so you're kind of along that baseline. And then a foreign element enters and some change. And then you descend into chaos. And you can't see it. like your performance goes down until you have a transformative idea and then through some practice and integration, you rise to a new status quo. This happens to people all the time when they introduce changes in their life like New Year's resolutions. I'm going to get fit and healthy this year. You know, it's a beach body time. And you start doing it and it's like, this is so hard. You're in chaos. And what human beings want to do is they want to go back to the way things were instead of moving through. OK, this happens when you introduce agile into your organization. You'll hear Agilist talk about this as the Agile antibodies. You introduce it, this is so hard, and people want to go back to the way things were instead of kind of moving through. So the tools, the processes, the practices, they're really good, but they're not powerful enough. You got to start changing the culture. Culture is like what we all swim in, but climate is something that you can start to affect. So climate is a little bit closer in to your team, and you can start talking about these mental models. Like when I was at TiVo, I was hired into TiVo to bring Agile in because I had shipped TVs, I knew about Agile. And I was hired in on, I think I can say this now because we're more than a decade past. Have you all ever streamed anything? Yeah, okay. So TiVo was working on that in like 2009, 2010. I got to see that stuff and I was like, really wish I had taken off for them. But that program... Brian (15:42) yeah. Bernie Maloney (15:54) disbanded, okay, and the culture kind of spread in the organization. And I knew that this was a possibility, so when I brought it in, I made sure I didn't just work with my team that was doing a Skunk Works project, where we were just kind of doing some internal development that we weren't, you know, or stealth is probably a better word these days. So a stealth program inside of TiVo that you couldn't talk about. I knew that... when Agile would spread, it would hit some of this resistance, these antibodies. And so I made a case for bringing in people from outside my team so that it was familiar. And when that program disbanded, it organically spread on the cloud side of TiVo because of some of this stuff. So within your own team, you can kind of create a climate. And then when you start to see results like that, that's going to start attracting kind of the rest of the culture that's there. But these mental models, like shifting from mechanism to organism can really help an organization recognize where their limiting beliefs are about how things go. And it's going to be reflected in language. So if you like dive into anthropology a little bit, you're going to recognize that it's really well established. You can change a culture by starting to change the language. And all of us, okay, if you're observing what's going on in Eastern Ukraine here in 2024, that's what's going on. with the Russian occupation, they're changing the language because that's going to change the culture. That's why they're doing stuff like that. So, and even language starts to shape the mental models that you've got. A good example of something like that was when European, you know, when European explorers is the language I'll use, came to the Americas, the natives didn't really have a language for ship. And so they saw these people coming in floating on the water. And that was the way that they could describe it. So even language kind of gets into a cultural sort of a thing. So these are techniques that you can put into your toolkit. Start shifting the language to start shifting the culture, which can kind of help with the mental models. When you got the mental models, that's where the language starts to come from. If you don't have the mental models, you're probably not going to have the language. And I encourage all the folks I work with, start shifting from the whole idea of mechanism to organism. Okay, Brian, was that 15 minutes? Did I go on for as long as I predicted I would? Brian (18:27) About 15 minutes. Yeah. No, but I think that's a good point. There's a thing that I'll talk about a lot of times in my classes where I would all say, you know, the waterfall paradigm is one that's based on manufacturing. And there's a false understanding of what we're doing as manufacturing and it's not. It's more research and development. So you have to kind of shift the process to be one that's more conducive. to research and development. So that's very much in line with what you're talking about here. I love that. Bernie Maloney (19:01) Yeah. Do you think people would appreciate some book references that can kind of like help you? Okay. So specifically on that whole ethos of experimentalism that you just touched on, Brian, I'm currently going through Amy Edmondson's The Right Kind of Wrong. Really good book. Now, Amy is well known because she helped establish psychological safety as a super important topic in organizations. Brian (19:07) absolutely. Absolutely. Bernie Maloney (19:30) So she was coupled, I think, with Project Aristotle at Google. And in this book, she unpacked some really interesting stuff. She talks about failure, and there's types of failures. There's basic, there's complex, and there's intelligent failures. OK, intelligent failures, they're just native to science. You know things are going to go wrong. You're going to have Thomas Edison, the I Found 1 ,000 Ways. to do a light bulb wrong, sort of. That's like intelligent failure. Basic failure, she breaks down into, let's see, neglect and inattention. And those are the things that you really want to start to squeeze out of a system. With that mental model of a mechanism, I would say a lot of, call it management, tends to think of a lot of failures as basic failures. And that's where blame starts to come into a system. Okay, so now we're back into psychological safety. Okay, where you want to establish, you know, that was an honest mistake. Hence the talk title of make new mistakes. Okay, so you can have processes and procedures that can kind of squeeze out some of those basic failures. Complex in the middle is really interesting to talk about. As I'm getting into the material, she unpacks... Now, complex failures are those chain of events, you know, Brian (20:30) Yeah. Yeah. Bernie Maloney (20:54) This thing and this thing and this thing all had to line up and go wrong at the same time for this catastrophic failure to go on. And in medicine, which is where her original research was, they talk about it as Swiss cheese. And she says, if you go into a lot of medical administrators' offices, you're going to find some model of Swiss cheese there. Because they talk about it's like all the holes have to line up for something to go sideways on you. So complex failures. It's a chain of events, a bunch of little things. And she points out that in the research, these often happen when you have an over -constrained system where there's no slack, where you're trying to operate with, get this, Brian, 100 % efficiency. You're trying to load everybody up. So that is just like, it's not just juice on psychological safety, but like, looking at the whole idea of intelligent failures that we want to encourage versus constraining out basic failures versus working to reduce those complex failures and not just thinking complex failures are basic failures, but they're systemic failures that then might be part of the system, might be part of the mental model that's going on that's there. So super juicy stuff. Brian (22:11) Yeah, yeah, that's really good stuff. I've always loved Amy's work and I feel, you know, silly calling her Amy. But Amy Edmondson's work has always been great. Yeah, Professor Edmondson. She, the work on psychological safety, I think was just amazing. And the examples she used in her research are amazing. And, you know, all the stuff with Project Aristotle. Bernie Maloney (22:20) Okay, Professor Edmondson, yeah. Brian (22:36) I love the concept of psychological. I mean, again, not to make this the topic of our podcast, but, you know, I love the idea that they, they, they found that psychological safety was, so foundational that nothing else mattered. That if you didn't have that, that not no matter what else you layered on top of it, it would not fix the problem that you didn't have psychological safety. Bernie Maloney (22:58) Yep. And that's one of the reasons why I say Agile is actually a social technology more than anything else. I mean, that's why it's people and people over processes and tools. This is really a social technology that we deal in. Brian (23:10) That's a great way to put it. I love that social technology. Awesome. I love that. Bernie Maloney (23:14) So kind of talking about Amy and psychological safety and kind of all these systems that we're talking about, another mental model that I like to give particularly my product owners, going back to that Mobius loop. and like on the right hand side is all about delivery, okay, that's where you give team solutions to build. That's what a lot of organizations do. Versus on the left hand side with discovery, it's all about problems to solve. So I like to encourage my clients to instead of just giving people solutions to build, give them problems to solve. Now, for product owners, if you imagine like an onion that's kind of stretched out left to right, so kind of an odd long little onion. Brian (23:41) Yeah. Bernie Maloney (23:58) and on the far right is your sprint. And then as you go to the left, you're at a release, and further out to the left, you're in roadmap, and way further out into the left, you're into these vague things like vision. So product owners kind of deal with this whole span of things. And in between, product and sprint goals start to make things a little bit more concrete. Okay, and... One of the things I'll do for my product owners is I'll take that Mobius loop and I'll overlay it on a planning onion like that and go, do you get to see how, like what we're talking about here, you're starting out way vague in discovery and you're getting way more concrete as you get into delivery and into the sprint. And really the job of Agile and Scrum is both. It's not just about turn the crank on the machine. In fact, I think it's unfortunate that there's a book title out there of twice. the work in half the time. I actually like to pitch this as more it's about twice the value with half the stress. Okay, now as you imagine that Mobius loop kind of overlaid, one of the things I'll unpack for folks is when you're way out in that vision area, there's a lot of uncertainty that's there, okay? And you're actually going to have to do discovery. You may have to run some experiments. Brian (24:58) Yeah. Bernie Maloney (25:24) Okay, and it's only as you get closer into delivery that you want to get closer to certainty. And really, that's kind of the job of a product owner is squeezing uncertainty out of the system. Initially through discovery of the problem to solve, who to solve it for, what the market is, but it's the job of the whole team in Agile to squeeze that uncertainty out of the system. Brian, I'm sure you've had folks like talk about spikes. You ever have people get wrapped around the axle about like including spikes in their product backlog? Brian (25:48) Yeah, for sure. yeah, for sure. Bernie Maloney (25:54) Cool, the way that I frame that up, okay, so here's a mental model. That's just technical uncertainty that you've uncovered. Great, okay, so now we've got to go squeeze that uncertainty out of the system. So stop getting wrapped around the axle on stuff like this. Just like stop trying to plan and predict things. Instead, kind of get into sense and respond on all of them. And there, I've kind of brought it around full circle for you, Brian, for where we started. Brian (26:09) Yeah, no. No, that's great. That's great stuff. And I love the fact that we can bring it back full circle. Well, this is fascinating. And like you said, we could press play and go on this for another half hour very easily. But we'll be respectful of people's time here and keep it to our normal time length. Bernie, I can't thank you enough for coming on. I really appreciate you sharing your experience with us. And... what you've learned over your years of working in this profession. Bernie Maloney (26:50) Thank you so much for asking me, Brian

TiVo, two old pieces of poop, undecided voters, 20th century dumb dumbs, Dark Matter, 3 Body Problem

How can product leaders build curious and collaborative teams? In this episode of Product Talk hosted by Jonathan Ozeran, Productiv Founder Jody Shapiro discusses his career in product management and insights on building successful teams. He speaks on his diverse educational background and how it led to roles at companies like TiVo and Google. Jody also shares strategies for constructing teams at startups, emphasizing passion and collaboration. Tune in for insights on how data-driven decision making and customer feedback can validate product ideas.

Christina Warren joins Jason Howell to talk about how nostalgia for the early Internet and failed technology companies has permeated her life in tech. From developer advocacy at Microsoft and Github to working in the tech journalism trenches at Mashable, Christina has stayed passionate about the possibilities of tech and its limitations.Please support our work on Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/JasonHowellChristina's experience of accidentally not hitting the "go live" button at the start of the interview, and the importance of redundancy in recordingHer early memories and passion for technology, sparked by video games, gadgets, and the internet in the 90sBuilding her first website on GeoCities as a 12-year-old unpaid "community leader"Her collectibles obsession, including shoes and merchandise from failed/infamous tech companies like Theranos, FTX, Pets.com etc.Reminiscing about the spectacular dot-com boom and bust, and companies like Webvan, Pets.com that didn't surviveDiscussing the decline of TiVo and how the DVR experience has arguably gotten worse over timeHer current role as a developer advocate at GitHub, and how to follow her work Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daniel Friebe & Brian Nygaard are following the Giro d'Italia from end to end, north to south, Turin to Rome, providing daily coverage - and today our dynamic duo report from stage 1 & Turin. Our Girovagando podcasts feature race analysis, interviews and regular features such as Larranzando, our almost daily postcards from Italy with Décathlon-AG2r La Mondiale's Larry Warbasse. Follow us on social media: Twitter @cycling_podcast Instagram @thecyclingpodcast The 11.01 Cappuccino Our regular email newsletter is now on Substack. Subscribe here for frothy, full-fat updates to enjoy any time (as long as it's after 11am). MAAP The Cycling Podcast x MAAP collection is available now. Go to maap.cc to see the full MAAP range. Friends of the Podcast Sign up as a Friend of the Podcast at thecyclingpodcast.com to listen to more than 100 exclusive episodes. Our latest KM0 specials, ‘How to Become a Pro Cyclist' and ‘How to Become an Ex-Pro Cyclist' are available on the Kilometre 0 for Friends of The Cycling Podcast feed now.  The Cycling Podcast is on Strava The Cycling Podcast was founded in 2013 by Richard Moore, Daniel Friebe and Lionel Birnie.

Sam and Dylan break down the Red Heifer, Rebbe Schneerson, a protest on the Golden Gate Bridge, the loss of TiVo, male performers and we say hello to an old friend. RUMBLE IS HERE - https://rumble.com/c/c-5756651 Tickets to see Sam at samtripoli.com Follow Dylan here -   / dylanpetewr.  . PATREON IS HERE! Subscribe at Patreon.com/AkaDeepWaters for uncensored episodes and one EXTRA EPISODE every week! DM your conspiracy videos to @akadeepwaters on Instagram - https://instagram.com/akadeepwaters?i... Check out BAD TV - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

Mikah Sargent got the Apple Vision Pro headset and shows off the device! Is it worth buying an additional battery pack for the Vision Pro, or can you save some money and buy a 3rd party external pack? What cellular plans support the Apple Watch with cellular? Plus, we check in with Scott Wilkinson on TV deals to look out for before the Super Bowl, and Johnny Jet talks about the Boeing 737 Max planes! Mikah shares his thoughts and opinions on the new Apple Vision Pro headset. Scott Wilkinson and Super Bowl TV deals Should I buy a spare Apple Vision Pro battery, or can I use a 3rd party battery from a brand like Anker? Why is my Windows 10 machine constantly asking me to select a bootable device on startup? What other services are out there similar to TiVO? Is there another NVMO service like T-Mobile that supports Apple Watch cellular service? Why is my home WIFI network being brought down when I turn on my laptop? Johnny Jet and the Boeing 737 Max planes. And what you can do to protect yourself after being compromised online. Hosts: Leo Laporte and Mikah Sargent Guests: Scott Wilkinson and Johnny Jet Get episodes ad-free with Club TWiT at https://twit.tv/clubtwit Show notes and links for this episode are available at: https://twit.tv/shows/ask-the-tech-guys/episodes/2010 Download or subscribe to this show at: https://twit.tv/shows/ask-the-tech-guys Sponsors: robinhood.com/boost cachefly.com/twit