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Plans are being looked at following Starmer’s policy U-turn this week, say officialsView the full article

One of the most notable features of President Donald The President’s “big beautiful bill” passed by the House early Thursday is a series of tax cuts exempting tips, overtime, and Social Security from taxes. The White House said no taxes on overtime and tips “makes good on two of President The President’s cornerstone campaign promises and benefits hardworking Americans where they need it the most—their paychecks.” The so-called populist tax measures have garnered headlines and won praise from Republican lawmakers, as well as unions representing police and firefighters. And lawmakers in 19 states from Massachusetts to Mississippi have proposed their own “no tax on overtime” bills this year, according to the Economic Policy Institute. What has received far less attention, aside from a legal blog or two, is that the The President administration just made it more difficult for millions of American workers to earn overtime—and actually benefit from the tax measure. The U.S. Department of Labor has quietly paused its appeals of a ruling by a Texas judge that reversed the Biden administration’s changes to the overtime rule—which expanded the right to overtime pay for 4.3 million salaried American workers. The rule had increased the salary threshold for overtime exemption from $35,568 to $43,888 on July 1, 2024, and then to $58,656 on January 1, 2025. A spokesperson for the Department of Labor did not immediately return requests from Capital & Main for comment. The rule was spearheaded by Biden administration Secretary of Labor Julie Su, who noted the irony of The President’s tax proposal on overtime pay, telling Capital & Main: “You can’t benefit from ‘no taxes on overtime’ if you’re not even paid overtime.” She added: “When you work longer hours, you should be paid for it. That’s why we expanded overtime pay to 4 million more Americans. This administration has walked away from that rule, showing yet again that you can’t have an administration of billionaires and depend on them to fight for working people. Cutting the number of workers eligible for overtime means less money in workers’ pockets.” Judy Conti, government affairs director of the National Employment Law Project, called the tax measure a “gimmick,” noting that the The President administration “is already making it easier to classify people as independent contractors, rather than employees, and they aren’t entitled to overtime at all.” The President’s allies in the House, including Ways and Means Chairman Jason Smith, have claimed that the measure could impact more than 80 million hourly workers. But in reality, only 8% of them are estimated to earn overtime pay on a regular basis, according to the Budget Lab at Yale. “That Doesn’t Help Me” Among those workers is Terri, a cashier at a Dollar Tree store in Brooklyn, who was nonplussed when asked about “no tax on overtime.” “So what? That doesn’t help me. I don’t even get overtime, no matter how many hours I work.” The workers who would benefit from the exemption tend to be employed in sectors such as manufacturing, mining, and public safety. One of the most vocal supporters of the measure is the International Association of Fire Fighters, whose members often work many hours of overtime a month. “Firefighters already work 53 hours a week before even qualifying for overtime pay. That’s 35% more hours a week than the average worker. The proposal to eliminate taxes on overtime would bring meaningful relief to firefighters, helping them keep more of what they earn while working long hours to keep their communities safe,” Edward Kelly, general president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, said in a statement to NBC News. The measure is estimated to cost some $866 billion over the next 10 years, per the Budget Lab at Yale. And state measures could have a devastating impact on their budgets, hurting their ability to pay for essential services. In Alabama, which became the first state to exempt overtime pay from state taxes, the measure cost the state $230 million in the first nine months of 2024, cutting off millions in funding for the state’s Education Trust Fund, according to the Economic Policy Institute. In the end, exempting overtime from taxes “is not a real pro-worker policy,” write EPI’s David Cooper and Nina Mast. “Instead, it is a giveaway to businesses that would create new inequities in the tax code while expanding employer power and draining public budgets of resources for all the things—schools, infrastructure, safety, health—that workers, their families, and their communities actually need to thrive.” This piece was originally published by Capital & Main, which reports from California on economic, political, and social issues. View the full article

In a move Democrats warned would have disastrous consequences for the economy, the environment, and public health, the Republican-led Senate Thursday voted to block California’s electric-vehicle mandates, revoking the state’s right to implement the nation’s toughest emissions standards. Republicans used the Congressional Review Act, or CRA, to overturn California’s long-standing authority under the Clean Air Act to request waivers from the Environmental Protection Agency to pass emissions standards stricter than federal rules and protect residents from dangerous air pollution. The move affects 17 other states and Washington, D.C., which have voluntarily adopted one or more of California’s stricter standards. The CRA allows Congress to quickly rescind a rule within a limited time after it’s issued by a federal agency, allowing a simple majority vote rather than the 60 votes needed to advance legislation under the filibuster rule. But both the Senate parliamentarian, the chamber’s official nonpartisan adviser, and the Government Accountability Office, the nonpartisan congressional referee, said the waivers are not rules and so are not subject to the Congressional Review Act. In defying the Senate parliamentarian, Democrats charged, the vote endangers not just the health of children and the climate but also decades of legal precedent and the integrity of the Senate itself. “Today, the Senate has done something unprecedented,” said Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island late Wednesday night, after he and his Democratic colleagues spent the past several days urging Republicans to respect not just California’s authority under the law, but also Senate rules. “Our actions and the ones that will follow from the procedural steps taken here today, over the next day or so will change the Clean Air Act, will change the Congressional Review Act, will change the rules of the Senate, and will do so by overruling the parliamentarian and breaking the filibuster—in effect, going nuclear,” Whitehouse said, referring to attempts to subvert the filibuster. “This isn’t just about California’s climate policies, and this isn’t just about the scope of the Congressional Review Act, and this isn’t just about eliminating the legislative filibuster,” said California Sen. Alex Padilla on the Senate floor Tuesday. The The President administration’s EPA submitted California’s waivers for review by Congress “with full knowledge that they are not actually rules” subject to the CRA, Padilla said, opening the door for any agency to ask Congress to revoke regulations a new administration doesn’t like. By mid-afternoon Thursday, Republicans moved to overturn California’s waivers through a procedural maneuver—giving the Senate the authority to determine what constitutes a rule for fast-track voting. They overturned waivers behind California’s rules to reduce tailpipe emissions from passenger vehicles and trucks, those regulating medium- and heavy-duty trucks, and the rule for heavy-duty smog-producing diesel and gas trucks. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) mocked Democrats’ objections to using the CRA, saying they were “throwing a tantrum over a supposed procedural problem.” Thune insisted that having a waiver submitted to Congress “is all that Congress has ever needed to decide to consider something under the Congressional Review Act.” He called the GAO’s ruling that the waiver is not a rule “an extraordinary deviation from precedent,” saying it was the first time the office “has decided to insert itself into the process and affirmatively declare that an agency rule submitted to Congress as a rule is not a rule.” Despite Thune’s claim, since the CRA was passed in 1996 the GAO has offered 26 legal opinions about whether an agency action was a rule in response to inquiries from members of Congress. And EPA never submitted California Clean Air Act waivers to Congress before the The President administration, Padilla and his Democratic colleagues say. They contend that Republicans chose this route because they don’t have the votes to withdraw the waivers through legislation. “The CRA has never been used to go after emission waivers like the ones in question today,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York said on the floor Tuesday. “The waiver is so important to the health of our country, and particularly to our children; to go nuclear on something as significant as this and to do the bidding of the fossil fuel industry is outrageous.” The first waiver was granted to California on July 11, 1968, Whitehouse told his colleagues in a last-ditch effort to change their minds late Wednesday night. Waivers have either been granted or amended or modified repeatedly since then, he said. “The score on whether the California clean air rule is treated by EPA as a waiver or a rule? It’s 131 to zero.” The use of the Congressional Review Act resolution is inconsistent with past precedent and violates the plain language of the act itself, said John Swanton, a spokesperson for California’s Air Resources Board, which regulates emissions. “The vote does not change CARB’s authority,” Swanton said, adding that the agency will continue its mission to protect the public health of Californians impacted by harmful air pollution. Ten million Californians live in areas that are under distinct, elevated threats from air pollution, said Adam Schiff, California’s junior senator. That has led to higher rates of respiratory issues like asthma and chronic lung disease, and increased the risk of heart disease, cancer, chronic headaches, and immune system issues, he said. “And that is multiplied by us living now on the front lines of the climate crisis. We have devastating and year-round fire dangers that put millions of other pollutants into our air,” Schiff said. “We need, deserve, and reserve the right as Californians to do something about our air.” Yet earlier this month, House Republicans, joined by 35 Democrats, including two from California, voted to rescind the waivers, sending the issue to the Senate. A “Compelling and Extraordinary” Need California’s legal authority to implement stricter air quality standards than federal rules comes from having already implemented its own tailpipe-emission regulations before Congress passed national standards in 1967. California officials developed the regulations to deal with the “compelling and extraordinary” air-pollution problems caused by the Golden State’s unique geography, climate, and abundance of people and vehicles. Recognizing these unique conditions, Congress gave California the authority to ask the Environmental Protection Agency for a waiver from rules barring states from passing air and climate pollution rules that are more protective than federal rules. Only one waiver was denied, an action that was quickly reversed, according to CARB. And though the The President administration in 2019 withdrew a waiver, a move legal scholars say has no basis in the law, the Biden administration restored the state’s authority to set its own vehicle-emission standards within a few years. Republicans argued that California’s rules amount to de facto national standards, given the state’s size and the fact that other states have signed on. But California can’t force its emission standards on other states, Padilla said. “Yes, over a dozen other states have voluntarily followed in California’s footsteps, not because they were forced to, but because they chose to, in order to protect their constituents, their residents, and protect our planet.” California’s standards also represent ambitious but achievable steps to cut carbon emissions and fight the climate crisis, Padilla said. “Transportation is the single largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and California has been proud to set the example for other states who may choose to follow suit.” Padilla, who grew up in California’s chronically polluted San Fernando Valley, recalled being sent home from grade school “on a pretty regular basis” when throat-burning smog settled over the valley. “It appears that Republicans want to overturn half a century of precedent in order to undermine California’s ability to protect the health of our residents,” Padilla said. “Republicans seem to be putting the wealth of the big oil industry over the health of our constituents.” “For Their Fossil Fuel Donors” Rhode Island’s Whitehouse, who has long schooled his colleagues on the perils of carbon pollution, took to the floor Tuesday to school them on the Congressional Review Act. Under the American legal system, administrative agencies can make rules through “a very robust process” that follows the Administrative Procedure Act, Whitehouse said. A rule could be contested in court, but years ago Congress decided there also could be a period of review when congressional members could reject the rule. And for all the decades since the CRA was passed, he said, it’s been used to address rules under the APA within the specified 60 days. Other states, including Rhode Island, follow California’s emissions standards because it’s good for public health to have clean air, Whitehouse said. “Efficient cars may mean lower cost for consumers, but those lower costs for consumers are lower sales for the fossil fuel industry.” Whitehouse told his colleagues they had legitimate pathways to change laws they didn’t like. They could pass a joint resolution or a simple Senate resolution. But those approaches would require 60 votes to end debate. “They don’t want to do that,” he said. “They want to ram this thing through for their fossil fuel donors.” Republicans, by contrast, argued they had the authority to protect consumers from what they call California’s “electric vehicle mandate,” which they say would endanger consumers, the economy, and the nation’s energy supply. “And our already shaky electric grid would quickly face huge new burdens from the surge in new electric vehicles,” argued Thune. Congress had approved $5 billion to build electric vehicle charging infrastructure across the country, but the The President administration withheld that funding, triggering a lawsuit from a coalition of attorneys to reverse what they said was a clearly illegal action. Republicans’ attacks on electric vehicles could disrupt a burgeoning industry built around the transition to renewable energy. “The repeal of these waivers will dramatically destabilize the regulatory landscape at a time when industry needs certainty to invest in the future and compete on a global scale,” said Jamie Hall, policy director for EV Realty, which develops EV-charging hubs. Thune also argued that California’s waiver rules are an improper expansion of a limited Clean Air Act authority, echoing an argument in Project 2025, a policy blueprint for the second The President administration produced by the conservative Heritage Foundation, which has long battled efforts to combat climate change. In a chapter on transportation asserts, Project 2025 claims that California has no valid basis under the Clean Air Act to claim an extraordinary or unique air quality impact from carbon dioxide emissions. Its recommendation? “Revoke the special waiver granted to California by the Biden administration.” On Wednesday, a clearly frustrated Whitehouse argued that Republicans were helping the fossil fuel industry create a shortcut for itself so it can sell more gasoline and ignore all the states that joined California to demand cleaner air for their constituents. “The fossil fuel industry essentially runs the Republican Party right now,” he said. Last year, the oil and gas industry spent more than $153 million on lobbying, led by the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers, which spent $27.6 million to influence Congress on bills including those designed to repeal vehicle-emission standards. The trade group also donated $178,750 to congressional candidates, 96% of which went to Republicans. The American Petroleum Institute, the largest U.S. oil and gas industry trade association, spent $6.25 million on lobbying last year to influence some of the same bills. Of nearly $400,000 donated to congressional candidates last year, 78% went to Republicans. Ninety-five percent of the $21,000 the Heritage Foundation donated to congressional candidates last year went to Republicans. “We Believe That You Can Do It” The week before Donald The President returned to office, the American Petroleum Institute held its biggest annual meeting in Washington, D.C. API promoted the event as an opportunity to urge the incoming The President administration and Congress to “seize the American energy opportunity” by advancing commonsense energy policies. Thune joined API Chief Executive Mike Sommers onstage, where they reminisced about starting their careers in adjacent offices in the same congressional office building 30 years ago. “It is a huge opportunity, having an administration that actually is pro-energy development working with the Congress,” Thune told his old friend. “We want to be supportive in any way that we can in ensuring that the president and his team have success in making America energy dominant.” Sommers suggested that one of the “big, powerful tools” Congress can use when one party controls both chambers is the Congressional Review Act, which he said offers fast-track authority to reverse “midnight regulations” passed by the Biden administration. Thune said he wouldn’t be able to use the CRA for one of California’s tailpipe emissions standards because it doesn’t fit within the required time window. But he was arguing with the parliamentarian and others, he said, “about the whole California waiver issue and how to reverse that because that was such a radical regulatory overreach.” Both California’s Clean Cars and Clean Trucks rules require an increasing percentage of vehicles sold in the state to be zero-emissions by 2035, with the cars rule, the so-called “EV mandate,” requiring that 100% of passenger cars and trucks be zero emissions by that date. “What California did was completely radical,” Sommers said at the meeting. “The fact that 17 other states who’ve waived into this are going to be subject to it could completely change the vehicle market.” “So we would highly encourage you to look at that as an option for the CRA,” Sommers told Thune. “And we believe that you can do it.” Thune assured Sommers that his committee chairs and team were looking at ways to fit repeal of California’s waivers “within the parameters of a CRA action” to fix what they saw as a shared problem. The oil and gas industry appreciated the efforts of Thune; John Barrasso of Wyoming, the Senate Majority Whip; and West Virginia Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, who pledged to overturn California’s clean cars rule and introduced the measure to do so last month. “Today, the United States Senate delivered a victory for American consumers, manufacturers, and U.S. energy security by voting to overturn the prior administration’s EPA rule authorizing California’s gas car ban and preventing its spread across our country,” said the American Petroleum Institute and the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers in a joint statement. “We cannot thank Senators John Barrasso, Shelley Moore Capito, and Leader John Thune enough for their leadership on this important issue.” Back on the Senate floor, Democrats warned their Republican colleagues that they may live to regret their decision to override the parliamentarian and flout legislative rules. “It won’t be long before Democrats are once again in the driver’s seat here, in the majority once again,” Padilla said. When that happens, he warned, every agency action that Democrats don’t like, whether it’s a rule or not, and no matter how much time has passed, would be fair game with this new precedent. “I suggest that we all think long and hard and be very careful about this,” he implored, in vain. “I would urge my colleagues, all my colleagues, to join me, not just in defending California’s rights to protect the health of our residents, not just in combating the existential threat of climate change, but in maintaining order in this chamber.” This article originally appeared on Inside Climate News. It is republished with permission. Sign up for their newsletter here. View the full article

Jennifer Meyer always knew she wanted to work in fashion. It probably comes, she says, from the hours she spent in her grandmother’s Santa Monica, California, apartment, playing with art supplies, and the small kiln her grandmother kept on the kitchen counter. “She did a lot of enameling,” says Meyer, an LA-based jewelry designer. “She had all of these colors and plaques to put things on; wiring. I would design things with her for fun; I have this love of design from her.” Still, as the daughter of an entertainment executive, Meyer didn’t really have a road map for a career in design. She completed her education on the East Coast, studying child and family psychology, and landed her first job in magazines, which she ultimately parlayed to PR jobs at Giorgio Armani and Ralph Lauren. “I wanted to start my own thing,” says Meyer. “I had this idea for jewelry, but I had no idea how to do it.” In 2005, Meyer made some basic sketches—her first a riff on a leaf design—and began knocking on doors, armed with equal parts curiosity and tenacity. So began the launch of her line, Jennifer Meyer Jewelry. Now, 20 years later, Meyer describes herself as self-taught. She’s leveraged her love of the natural world and her instincts for a simple, unfussy aesthetic to guide a business that’s become as popular with Jennifer Aniston and Meghan Markle as millennials and suburban fortysomethings. If the door said jeweler, I knocked on it. I knew nothing. It was trial and error. I had a bad sketch of a leaf on paper. I had no clue what I was doing—which, by the way, as I look back was the best way to learn. I made a few pieces, and that’s how I understood what I was doing. There is a Star Wars quote, “Do or do not; there is no try.” I started in 2005. My boyfriend at the time, who became my husband, said, “What do you want to do?” I said, ”I don’t know.” He said, “That’s a lie; Everybody wants a thing and we’re embarrassed to say it. You think you’re too old, or too young. What do you want to do? Act? Write? Work for NASA? It can be anything.” He said, “You have to say it out loud.” I said, “I want to design jewelry. I don’t know how to do it.” When I started, I was doing everything from designing to FedEx. I was alone, and I did it all. I have such an amazing group of people I work with now. Now it’s shorthand: We can have one quick conversation and say, “Hey do you remember the leaf with the baguette diamonds?” I like when things feel organized. When I walk into a room and I know where everything is . . . organization is inspiring to me. As a business owner, I’m available 24/7. I don’t care what time you text me, I don’t care what time you call or email me. If it’s 11 p.m. on a Saturday and you work with me and you said, “Jen, do you have five minutes?” I have five minutes. Unless I’m sound asleep, other than that I am available. I do, though, [I] still think it’s important to set boundaries to make you feel good, but I don’t have a boundary with my time. I love a reminder. When someone says, “Just bumping this to the top of your emails. Or, hey, making sure you did this.” You cannot bug me. It is the greatest feeling in the world. Bother me until it’s finished. I always get up by 7 a.m. I always make sure my kids are fed and out the door. They drive now, which is such a weird thing. I love to work out and I go to bed thinking about my coffee. I drink decaf. I used to have really bad panic attacks. They were debilitating. If I’m drinking caffeine first thing, that’s not good for anybody. I always have a book with me. Everything is written down. I have to write it down and I have to take a highlighter to it. That is it for me. That’s how I do things. When people have notes on their phones, it gives me hives. Being creative is throwing it all out there, making mistakes and making it your own. How many times have you looked at something and thought, “I would never wear that, what is that? No.” And then, somehow six months later you’re around it enough and you see that woman whose aesthetic you love and you’re like, “I get it now.” Hard work pays off. You have got to develop those relationships; you have to sit with people and get to know their wives and children and husbands. You have to get in there and spend the time and energy and the focus and you have to develop the same aesthetic, which is really challenging. Everyone has their own idea of how things should be made. It’s a lot of working together and explaining yourself and being clear. You talk about boundaries. Those that are the boundaries that are important. Clarity is kindness. I grew up going to art galleries with my dad. He loved going to galleries. I remember I was like 8 years old and he bought this art and it was on our wall. It was literally a green and blue triangle—nothing else. Half was blue and half was green. I remember saying to him, “What is that? I could have done that.” He looked at me and said, “But you didn’t.” It never left my head. That artist did it and thought of it and created it. It was easy for me to have a 10-minute opinion, but I didn’t do it. I was like, “He’s damn right.” View the full article

David Brickley is something of a social marketing pioneer. In 2011, he founded STN Digital, a leading social-first digital marketing company in sports and entertainment. STN now has more than 50 employees and creates hundreds of pieces of content daily for partners like ESPN, Warner Bros., NBC Sports, Under Armour, the Philadelphia Phillies, and NBA star Jayson Tatum, among dozens of others. The company helped Elton John launch his TikTok. In 2023, digital sports viewership surpassed traditional television viewers for the first time. Forty-three percent of young adult sports fans follow their favorite league on social media, 54% follow their favorite athlete, and 32% of all sports fans use social media while watching games. Brickley and STN have been at the forefront of this social-first revolution. Brickley never wanted to start a social marketing agency. But when Kobe Bryant opens a door—even by accident—you walk through. Building a business A lifelong Lakers fan who grew up east of Los Angeles, Brickley took a job in 2011 as a producer at Fox Sports Radio with the dream of hosting his own sports talk radio show. “I thought I should have my own afternoon show,” he said. “My program director thought differently.” Shut down by the higher-ups, Brickey became an entrepreneur by necessity. He used Fox Sports AV equipment and studio space after hours to launch his own YouTube channel. At the time, original sports content on the platform was scarce. His content regularly made it on YouTube’s front page, which grew his profile enough for him to start working directly with professional athletes, eventually landing Bryant as a client in 2013. In an exclusive interview, Brickley spoke with Fast Company about his evolution into a digital maven, sharing his insights on how social audience habits have changed, how he sees them evolving in the future, and how any company can build a social content strategy that works. The interview has been edited and condensed. How did you land Kobe Bryant as a client when you were just getting started as a small shop? It started with good karma. I did a ton of favors for the publicist of Matt Barnes, who was a Lakers player at the time, and as a favor, I interviewed his twins after they got on the honor roll at their elementary school. In exchange, I got a 10-minute one-on-one with Matt. Then one day I was at a boxing class and I ran into his publicist. She mentioned she was working with Kobe, so I asked if I could send over some ideas. Because of all those favors I’d done, she let me pitch Kobe the concept of the “Kobe Minute”—a 60-second weekly video about his on-court and off-court successes. They loved it because we could highlight his charitable work without it feeling self-promotional. How did creating content for Kobe and his team open your eyes to the idea of creating a social marketing agency? The Kobe opportunity was the epiphany moment. I had just reached out to my childhood hero about working together, and he said yes. So I realized if I could land Kobe, I could reach other athletes and teams too. We built an Excel sheet with all 32 NFL teams, found every email, and reached out. Seven hopped on calls, three wanted proposals, and the Minnesota Vikings were willing to try us out as a partner. It was pure bootstrapped cold outreach. Being able to create your own destiny without relying on someone else for opportunity was intoxicating. You started STN Digital basically from scratch. What struggles were your clients having when creating original content—specifically for social—and how did you position yourself as the solution? Back in 2013, every sports entity had social channels—the Facebooks and Twitters. But they weren’t posting original content. They had these audiences but didn’t know how to engage them. Social was just a PR dump of press releases and super boring, non-fan-centric content. So my message was, “We understand fans, we understand what the sports fan wants, and we can curate content specifically on social that speaks to them.” You gotta understand that at that time, a fan-first approach of speaking authentically about topics fans cared about didn’t exist. Now, as we transition to 2025, every CEO, president, CMO in the world is starting to think about a social-first approach, which is awesome to see. How does the agency work? In what ways do partners deploy your services and expertise on a given social marketing campaign or initiative? Our clients use us in one of two ways. Usually, they’ll either hire us as a world-class social media department and we run everything A to Z—copywriting, content, analytics, everything—or they’ll bolt us on as a world-class content house. In that case, they have an incredible team already, but they add us on top because their team doesn’t have three and a half hours to dream up a bunch of dope ideas in a whiteboard session or simply need more engaging content for all their initiatives. ESPN has a 75-person social team with incredible engines internally, but we’re able to be that supercharger to take them from 99% potential to hopefully 125% potential. What’s an example of a creative campaign you’ve executed that you’re really proud of? Our work with the Indiana Fever during the Caitlin Clark draft just won a Webby. My team spent 70 to 80 hours creating this video of a Toy Story-esque action figure of Caitlin Clark dribbling around her bedroom, shooting hoops. It got around 10 million views on TikTok alone and 500,000 engagements. What’s interesting is we’re seeing lo-fi content outperform hi-fi content by 40% more views and 30% more engagements on average. But this high-production piece was thumb-stopping creative that nobody else was posting—something that made people think, I gotta watch the rest of this. It’s something the Fever and we are super proud to have collaborated on. What are some of the biggest misconceptions you see about social marketing content, and what strategies that may seem counterintuitive actually work? I look at social media as upper-funnel fan engagement—building community, credibility, and trust. But a lot of the time, brands see it as a lower-funnel platform where they’re trying to talk about brand, logo, messaging, and calls to action. You have to be social on social. You have to provide value—whether it’s education, laughter, or elicit some type of emotion. People aren’t required to follow you, so why do they? You have to build that relationship. Brands that do social wrong are mostly just, “Look at me, look at me!” and constantly making calls to action. That’s not how you build true community, no different than a friendship or relationship. For every eight things you give your community, you have then earned the right to ask for two things in return. And the value you give in that 80% needs to be memorable. What are some of the other lessons you’ve learned about social engagement or audience behavior over the years? The power of real-time social, especially in sports, continues to be undervalued. During the Olympics with NBC Sports, we worked back-to-back 12-hour shifts daily and helped them get 6.5 billion impressions in 17 days. Those impressions would cost $50 million if you bought them on the open market. The key is being ready for every moment. If Simone Biles won bronze, silver, or gold, we had content ready for all scenarios with different angles and storylines. Same with Caitlin Clark’s draft. We spent 30 days planning content for before, during, and after she was picked to capitalize on arguably the biggest moment in the Fever’s franchise history. How do you approach data and measurement when creating content strategies and campaigns? We follow the data of what works, but we also pay attention to how different platforms’ algorithms behave. Instagram will serve you something in your feed that happened five days ago, so there are considerations about what goes on Stories versus in-feed. We’re constantly obsessed with data—not just what’s working or not working, but what different post types perform best, whether it’s a reel, carousel, or single post. We’re analyzing timing, post type, static versus video versus carousel, and noticing how algorithms are being optimized differently across Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube. We use platforms like Sprout Social and Rival IQ to get super deep with third-party and first-party data. We analyze our top 10 and bottom 10 posts constantly—weekly or monthly—to understand why certain posts underperformed. We look at who was featured, what time it was posted, whether it was a carousel versus a reel. We might notice reels are taking a dive and wonder if the algorithm has changed. Not all engagement metrics are equal, either. Watching something for 3 seconds and scrolling past is much different than watching it for the full 60 seconds. And I believe that one of the most undervalued engagement metrics is shares. If you take time to DM content to a friend saying, “This is so us,” that’s 10 times more important engagement than just a “like” because you’re actually taking time to send it to someone you love. We look seriously at shareability and ask, “Is this something you want to DM your family or best friend?” What about platforms? Which are the most important, and where do you see the most success and engagement? We still see Instagram and TikTok at the top in terms of engagement and virality. From a sports perspective, Twitter is still that real-time water cooler—nobody else holds a candle to it. There have been attempts with platforms like Bluesky, but we saw with the Luka Dončić trade how NBA Twitter just exploded in ways other platforms can’t replicate. Social behavior continues to swing back and forth. Once something becomes too saturated, there’s an opportunity for new platforms or content types to emerge as fresh ways to connect with audiences. The key is being adaptable and understanding where your specific audience lives and engages most authentically. Marketing efforts can often become fragmented across different departments. How should companies think about aligning their social strategy with broader marketing goals? Social and sales teams—even CMOs and marketing teams—often operate separately from social, which is a problem. CMOs should always oversee the social department because it has to ladder up to a greater vision of value prop and audience understanding. Social and community building and fan engagement at the top of the funnel is all to eventually work people down the funnel to become customers and drive revenue generation. If I were a prospective client who came to you and said, “My social strategy sucks. What can I do?” what’s the first piece of advice you would give me? Where would you start? I would ask, “What audience specifically are you trying to grow?” Then we can reverse-engineer a strategy based on what that audience finds valuable, entertaining, and engaging. Are you trying to grow mass audience because you’re a large brand, or are you saturated in one demo but want to diversify? Then, once we identify the target avatar, we can develop a strategy based on what we know works with other brands talking to that same audience. Without figuring out who your customer is at the very top of the conversation, you’re just posting content and hoping it works with no real endgame. So let’s figure out who you’re talking to, what they want most, and how we can meet them where they are and deliver it to them. View the full article

These days, our tech experiences are all about speed—and our expectations for instant action are actually kinda insane. Think about it: Not so long ago, phones, computers, and especially the internet were all painfully slow (at least, by today’s sonic-speed standards). Things have come a long way in a short time. And for most of us now, if something doesn’t load within a fraction of second, we grow impatient and maybe give up entirely—like when a webpage has the audacity to take a handful of seconds to show up and we click away in an indignant huff. Hey, we’ve all been there. What’s especially wild, though, is that while the standards for speed have skyrocketed forward, the way we measure this stuff has remained mostly the same. At least, until now. This week, I’ve got an incredibly cool and tantalizingly new tool to share with ya. It’s an overdue update to the way we think about speed and assessing the allegedly lightning-fast connections we all pay for. Get ready for a whole new way to think about the tech in front of you. Psst: If you love these types of tools as much as I do, check out my free Cool Tools newsletter from The Intelligence. You’ll be the first to find all sorts of simple tech treasures! The internet speed test—reinvented Traditionally, when we talk about tools for testing your tech connection speed, we think about things like Ookla’s Speedtest, the native Google speed testing system, or the newer Cloudflare Internet Speed Test service. We’ve covered those types of tools before​. They’re all useful, in different ways—but they’re also all variations on the same tried-and-true type of speed assessment that’s been around for ages now. Today’s tool is different. But it comes from a familiar source—someone who knows this area inside and out. It’s the brand-new brainchild of the guy who created Ookla’s Speedtest, arguably the first internet speed test that became broadly known and embraced by the masses. ➜ It’s called Orb​. And it’s decidedly different from your typical tech speed tester. 👁️ Orb works by looking not only at the basic power of your connection but also its responsiveness and reliability. The idea is that all of that adds up to create a more complete and ultimately meaningful view of your connection quality. 💡 And that number isn’t only about bragging rights, either: It’s meant to help you make sure you’re actually getting the speed you’re paying for—and then able to pinpoint precisely where and when any problems pop up. ⌚ You’ll need about two minutes to set Orb up and take it out for a spin. First, install the appropriate Orb app​ for whatever type of device you’re using. Orb is free to use, and it’s available for most major platforms—Android​, ​iOS​, ​Windows​, ​MacOS​, even ​Linux​. If you’re using a Chromebook, you can go with either the Android app or the Linux version. Open up the app and follow the quick steps to get it set up and ready. Orb will prompt you to sign in or create an account, but you can skip over that if you’d rather. The account just makes it possible to sync your testing data and view it from other devices. Once that swift onetime setup’s out of the way, you’ll see Orb’s dashboard—with a tremendous amount of detail that lets you peek under the hood and learn exactly how much your current connection leaves to be desired. Specifically: Responsiveness tells you how quickly your connection acts and how much lag you’ve got going. Reliability looks at the consistency of your connection and its responsiveness over time. And speed is the more standard measure of how quickly bits and bytes move across your connection (as measured by Cloudflare—the same basic speed testing tool we’ve recommended before​!). It all adds up to give you a never-before-visible complete picture of your internet speed quality—on your current device as well as any other devices on which you’ve installed the app and signed in. any Knowledge is power, as they say. And with Orb’s in-depth intelligence firmly in your mitts, you’ll be armed to the gills and ready to confirm that everything’s working the way it oughta—and ready to point your finger at the precise problem, if and when one appears. Orb is available on all major platforms​, via a variety of native apps. It’s completely free for personal use. (The company also sells large-scale enterprise software setups, which seems to be where it intends to make money.) The tool comes from known, reputable internet researchers and is ​explicit about the fact​ that it doesn’t do anything disconcerting with the limited amount of data it collects. Treat yourself to even more tech-enhancing goodness with my free Cool Tools newsletter. You’ll get an instant introduction to an incredible audio app and a new off-the-beaten-path gem every Wednesday! View the full article

The concept of advancement is baked into the way we think about work—almost like it’s a video game. Just like you don’t want to stay at a particular level of that game for too long, it sometimes doesn’t feel like you’re succeeding at work if your title doesn’t change, and you don’t get a significant raise. Getting a promotion isn’t just a matter of wanting it or playing the game long enough. There are several factors at play—only some of which are under your control. First, the organization needs to have a position for you to move into. If there is no role for you to play, then there isn’t much you can do to get promoted this year. Second, you have to decide whether the job you would be promoted into is one you really want. Third, you have to be ready for that new set of responsibilities. So, if you want to get promoted this year, you need to get information related to all three of those issues. Is there room for me? Before you get your hopes up for a promotion, you need to know whether there is a role for you. Early on in your career, the answer to that question is probably “yes.” Often, the first few promotions reflect your ability to do your role with less oversight and to take on additional responsibility in your initial role. Before long, though, promotions start to involve either oversight of an entire project or supervision of people. At that point, there are fewer potential roles available than when the promotion involves more technical expertise. Once you’re on that people management track, the number of potential positions above the one you have go down. You may eventually reach a point when you may be completely qualified for a future role, but there may not be a position available. What does the next role really entail? As attractive as a promotion may sound in theory, you also have to ask yourself whether you would enjoy the job in practice. This question is particularly relevant when considering the people management track. Being a supervisor of other people is a very different role than the individual contributor roles that usually precede it. Just because you enjoy the work of your organization does not mean that you will enjoy having to manage others. As you rise in the organization, the work you do goes from being focused on the tactics for achieving particular goals to formulating the strategy that will guide the path of the organization. This strategic oversight comes with additional responsibility for the success and health of the organization. The job can be exciting, but also stressful. Talking with supervisors to find out the true responsibilities you will be taking on is important. Work and life need to be integrated. If your new role requires different hours or more engagement on nights and weekends, you should think through whether your lifestyle and responsibilities will support those changes. Be sure to talk with people in your life, such as a significant other. Their life might be affected by a change in your work requirements, so you’ll need their support. What do I need to learn? When you are approaching a promotion, you’ll never be completely ready. There is always a lot to learn on the job. That said, there is often work you can do to prepare. Your organization may offer technical or leadership classes that you can take to begin to develop the next set of skills. Talk with your supervisor, the HR team, and any learning and development professionals in your organization to find out what options there are for you to get a jump on the next round of skills. Look at job ads that your company or others put out for similar roles and get a sense of whether your current qualifications fit. If companies prefer advanced degrees for applicants to a position, it might be time to think about going back to school. Being proactive won’t guarantee you the promotion you want, but it can help speed you on your way. And if a promotion in your current organization isn’t in the cards, it will also get you ready to move on when the time is right. Finally, be aware that promotions don’t always happen on your timeline. It can be frustrating to feel like you have languished in a role longer than you should. But, use the time to learn, to develop your social network, and to be ready to hit the ground running when a new opportunity does open up. View the full article

Memorial Day Weekend is upon us, marking the unofficial start of the summer vacation season in America. Yet, a recent Bankrate survey from late April found that only 46% of Americans plan to travel domestically or internationally this summer, with costs cited as the primary concern. Dwindling U.S. consumer confidence may lead some individuals to reconsider spending their precious discretionary dollars on travel. Still, you may have more travel options within your budget than you thought. For those determined to get away, there’s an excellent Google Flights hack that reveals options within a certain budget. Some Google Flights aficionados know this as the “anywhere” hack. Here’s how to use it. The Google Flights “anywhere” hack Google Flights is one of the best aggregators out there for finding airline tickets between any two cities on Earth. It works very simply: visit www.google.com/travel/flights, enter your departure and destination cities along with your desired departure and return dates, and click the search button. Google Flights will then reveal the best options for your selected destination across numerous airlines. However, if you’re trying to stay within a certain budget, this traditional method of using Google Flights can be exhausting, because you have to check individual cities manually. For example, if your airline ticket budget is $1200, it can be tedious to enter cities one by one on Google Flights (“São Paulo,” then “Paris,” then “Osaka”) only to find that tickets don’t fit within your budget anyway. Sticking to this method may also mean you completely overlook interesting destinations you’d never considered before. That’s where the excellent Google Flights “anywhere” hack comes in. It’s perfect for people who are more flexible in terms of their destination and put a greater priority on staying within a certain budget. Here’s how it works: Go to Google Flights as normal and enter your departure city in the “Where from?” field. Fill out your departure and return dates, as well, in the respective fields. But then, instead of entering a specific destination in the “Where to?” field, type in “anywhere” and click the search button. Now, on the results screen, you will see a global map displaying all the options available to you from your departure city to destinations around the world for the selected dates. By default, these options will cover all price ranges. However, you can narrow the results to show only tickets that fit within your budget by clicking the price filter dropdown menu and dragging the slider to your maximum preferred price. The results will then show you where in the world you can fly while staying within your budget. And keep in mind that the Google Flights results map is as interactive as regular Google Maps—so be sure to zoom in and pan around on the map, and you’ll see additional flight options appear. Click on any one of them to get more details about the selected itinerary. Find even more options with the “flexible date” hack The “anywhere” Google Flights hack can help you quickly discover destinations you can travel to within your budget. But another simple hack may reveal even more destinations you can afford. That’s because you may actually be able to discover more locations within your budget if your dates are flexible, too. Route prices aren’t set in stone, and they vary wildly depending on the date you want to fly. To reveal these potential new options, click on the date field from the search results screen. In the drop-down menu that appears, click on the “Flexible Dates” tab, select any one or all of the next six months, and indicate how long you want your trip to be: for the weekend, or for one or two weeks. Google Flights will then scour the internet to find you the destinations you can go to within your budget and across the periods you selected. This “flexible date” hack frequently yields even more results than the “anywhere” hack alone because there are often significant savings to be had on routes flown during periods of lower travel demand. Just one final thing to keep in mind: While you may be able to find new destinations you can afford to explore using these Google Flights hacks, remember that once you arrive, Google Maps may not actually be the best way to navigate—so be sure to pack your phone with the apps that are. View the full article

Republican lawmakers have been battling over a bill that includes massive tax and spending cuts. Much of their disagreement has been over provisions intended to reduce the cost of Medicaid. The popular health insurance program, which is funded by both the federal and state governments, covers about 78.5 million low-income and disabled people—more than 1 in 5 Americans. On May 22, 2025, the House of Representatives narrowly approved the tax, spending, and immigration bill. The legislation, which passed without any support from Democrats, is designed to reduce federal Medicaid spending by requiring anyone enrolled in the program who appears to be able to get a job to either satisfy work requirements or lose their coverage. It’s still unclear, however, whether Senate Republicans would support that provision. Although there are few precedents for such a mandate for Medicaid, other safety net programs have been enforcing similar rules for nearly three decades. I’m a political scientist who has extensively studied the work requirements of another safety net program: Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). As I explain in my book, Living Off the Government? Race, Gender, and the Politics of Welfare, work requirements place extra burdens on low-income families but do little to lift them out of poverty. Work requirements for TANF TANF gives families with very low incomes some cash they can spend on housing, food, clothing, or whatever they need most. The Clinton administration launched it as a replacement for a similar program, Aid to Families With Dependent Children, in 1996. At the time, both political parties were eager to end a welfare system they believed was riddled with abuse. A big goal with TANF was ending the dependence of people getting cash benefits on the government by moving them from welfare to work. Many people were removed from the welfare rolls, but not because work requirements led to economic prosperity. Instead, they had trouble navigating the bureaucratic demands. TANF is administered by the states. They can set many rules of their own, but they must comply with an important federal requirement: Adult recipients have to work or engage in an authorized alternative activity for at least 30 hours per week. The number of weekly hours is only 20 if the recipient is caring for a child under the age of 6. The dozen activities or so that can count toward this quota range from participating in job training programs to engaging in community service. Some adults enrolled in TANF are exempt from work requirements, depending on their state’s own policies. The most common exemptions are for people who are ill, have a disability, or are over age 60. To qualify for TANF, families must have dependent children; in some states pregnant women also qualify. Income limits are set by the state and range from $307 a month for a family of three in Alabama to $2,935 a month for a family of three in Minnesota. Adult TANF recipients face a federal five-year lifetime limit on benefits. States can adopt shorter time limits; Arizona’s is 12 months. An administrative burden Complying with these work requirements generally means proving that you’re working or making the case that you should be exempt from this mandate. This places what’s known as an “administrative burden” on the people who get cash assistance. It often requires lots of documentation and time. If you have an unpredictable work schedule, inconsistent access to child care, or obligations to care for an older relative, this paperwork is hard to deal with. What counts as work, how many hours must be completed, and who is exempt from these requirements often comes down to a caseworker’s discretion. Social science research shows that this discretion is not equally applied and is often informed by stereotypes. The number of people getting cash assistance has fallen sharply since TANF replaced Aid to Families With Dependent Children. In some states caseloads have dropped by more than 50% despite significant population growth. Some of this decline happened because recipients got jobs that paid them too much to qualify. The Congressional Budget Office, a nonpartisan office that provides economic research to Congress, attributes, at least in part, an increase in employment among less-educated single mothers in the 1990s to work requirements. Not everyone who stopped getting cash benefits through TANF wound up employed, however. Other recipients who did not meet requirements fell into deep poverty. Regardless of why people leave the program, when fewer low-income Americans get TANF benefits, the government spends less money on cash assistance. Federal funding has remained flat at $16.5 billion since 1996. Taking inflation into account, the program receives half as much funding as when it was created. In addition, states have used the flexibility granted them to direct most of their TANF funds to priorities other than cash benefits, such as pre-K education. Many Americans who get help paying for groceries through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program are also subject to work requirements. People the government calls “able-bodied adults without dependents” can only receive SNAP benefits for three months within a three-year period if they are not employed. A failed experiment in Arkansas Lawmakers in Congress and in statehouses have debated whether to add work requirements for Medicaid before. More than a dozen states have applied for waivers that would let them give it a try. When Arkansas instituted Medicaid work requirements in 2018, during the first The President administration, it was largely seen as a failure. Some 18,000 people lost their health care coverage, but employment rates did not increase. After a court order stopped the policy in 2019, most people regained their coverage. Georgia is currently the only state with Medicaid work requirements in effect, after implementing a waiver in July 2023. The program has experienced technical difficulties and has had trouble verifying work activities. Other states, including Idaho, Indiana, and Kentucky, are already asking the federal government to let them enforce Medicaid work requirements. What this may mean for Medicaid The multitrillion-dollar bill the House passed by a vote of 215-214 would introduce Medicaid work requirements nationwide by late 2026 for childless adults ages 19 to 64, with some exemptions. But most people covered by Medicaid in that age range are already working, and those who are not would likely be eligible for work requirement waivers. An analysis by KFF—a nonprofit that informs the public about health issues—shows that in 2023, 44% of Medicaid recipients were working full time and another 20% were working part time. In 2023, that was more than 16 million Americans. About 20% of the American adults under 65 who are covered by Medicaid are not working due to illness or disability, or because of caregiving responsibilities, according to KFF. This includes both people caring for young children and those taking care of relatives with an illness or disability. In my own research, I read testimony from families seeking work exemptions because caregiving, including for children with disabilities, was a full-time job. The rest of the adults under 65 with Medicaid coverage are not working because they are in school, are retired, cannot find work, or have some other reason. It’s approximately 3.9 million Americans. Depending on what counts as “work,” they may be meeting any requirements that could be added to the program. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that introducing Medicaid work requirements would save around $300 billion over a decade. Given past experience with work requirements, it is unlikely those savings would come from Americans finding jobs. My research suggests it’s more likely that the government would trim spending by taking away the health insurance of people eligible for Medicaid coverage who get tangled up in red tape. This article was updated on May 22, 2025, with details about the House of Representatives’ passage of the budget bill. Anne Whitesell is an assistant professor of political science at Miami University. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. View the full article

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Sponsored Post Key Takeaways Embrace Uncertainty: Successful business risk takers recognize opportunities within uncertainty and make informed, calculated decisions that can lead to significant rewards. Key Characteristics: Effective risk takers possess traits such as calculated decision-making, adaptability, a clear vision, networking skills, and financial acumen that contribute to their business successes. Types of Risks: Understanding market, financial, and operational risks is essential for small business owners to create effective strategies for navigating challenges and enhancing resilience. Innovation and Competitive Edge: Taking strategic risks fosters innovation, allowing businesses to differentiate themselves, explore new ideas, and achieve growth, ultimately leading to a competitive advantage. Effective Risk Management: Employ risk assessment techniques (like SWOT analysis) and mitigation strategies (such as diversifying funding sources and having a robust business plan) to navigate uncertainties and sustain business success. In the fast-paced world of business, taking risks often separates the successful from the stagnant. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to be a true business risk taker, you’re not alone. These individuals embrace uncertainty, leveraging it to seize opportunities that others might shy away from. Being a risk taker isn’t just about diving headfirst into the unknown; it’s about calculated decisions that can lead to remarkable rewards. Whether you’re an entrepreneur launching a startup or a manager steering a team through change, understanding the art of risk-taking can transform your approach to business. Let’s explore what it means to be a business risk taker and how you can harness this mindset for your own success. Understanding The Business Risk Taker Understanding what it means to be a business risk taker is crucial for small business owners. Risk-taking involves not only embracing uncertainty but also making calculated, informed decisions that propel your startup forward. Definition of Business Risk Taker A business risk taker is someone who identifies opportunities amid uncertainty and takes decisive actions toward maximizing their potential for success. This may involve launching a new product, exploring innovative marketing strategies, or seeking funding options like angel investors or venture capital. By taking these risks, you position your small business to capitalize on emerging trends or market gaps, enhancing your competitive edge. Characteristics of Successful Risk Takers Successful risk takers share several key characteristics that contribute to their achievements in the business landscape: Calculated Decision-Making: They analyze market research and assess potential outcomes before making decisions related to product development or funding. Adaptability: They pivot strategies quickly in response to market changes or customer feedback, ensuring their business model remains relevant. Vision: They maintain a clear vision for their venture while being open to new ideas and innovations that may improve customer acquisition and marketing effectiveness. Networking Skills: They actively seek connections with mentors, business coaches, and other entrepreneurs to exchange knowledge and collaboration opportunities. Financial Acumen: They demonstrate a strong understanding of budgeting, cash flow, and profit margins, essential for sustaining growth and managing expenses effectively. By embodying these characteristics, you enhance your capacity to navigate risks and drive your small business toward success. Types of Business Risks Understanding the types of business risks helps you, as a small business owner or entrepreneur, make informed decisions. Here are three key categories of business risks to consider: Market Risks Market risks, or systematic risks, stem from changes that affect the entire market. Key examples include: Interest Rate Risk: This risk arises from fluctuations in interest rates that impact loans and fixed-income securities. As interest rates rise, the market value of bonds typically falls, affecting your investment options. Equity Risk: This risk involves losses due to changes in stock prices, influenced by your company’s financial performance and market trends. An unstable economy may lead to decreased stock values, impacting your funding strategies. Financial Risks Financial risks pertain to your business’s financial health and access to capital. Key examples include: Credit Risk: This risk arises if customers default on payments or when you seek funding from lenders. A poor credit rating can hinder your ability to secure loans or attract investors. Liquidity Risk: This risk involves not having enough cash on hand to meet expenses. Cash flow management is critical for maintaining operational stability, especially during periods of low sales. Operational Risks Operational risks relate to the internal processes and resources of your business. Key examples include: Supply Chain Risk: This risk arises from disruptions in your supply chain, whether due to natural disasters or supplier failures. Ensuring alternative suppliers can mitigate this risk. Technology Risk: This risk involves system failures or cyber threats. Investing in reliable cybersecurity measures and backup systems safeguards your sensitive data and customer information. By recognizing these risks, you can develop a robust business plan that enhances your resilience and adaptability in the competitive market landscape. Implementing strategies to mitigate these risks supports your long-term business goals and growth strategy. The Benefits of Being a Business Risk Taker Taking risks transforms how your small business operates. This mindset drives innovation and growth, which are crucial for success. Innovation and Growth Embracing calculated risks fosters a culture of innovation. You differentiate your small business from competitors by exploring unique opportunities. By experimenting with new ideas, you enhance product development and discover groundbreaking services that appeal to your target audience. For instance, investing in modern technology or adopting new marketing strategies can lead to increased customer acquisition and sales. Risk-taking promotes your business’s long-term growth strategy, enhancing profitability and expanding market reach. Competitive Advantage Taking strategic risks provides a competitive edge. Knowing potential market shifts allows you to pivot your strategies effectively. You create a unique business model aligned with your vision, leading to strong branding and customer loyalty. Collaborating with other entrepreneurs or leveraging mentorship can yield insights that support innovative thinking. By protecting intellectual property through trademarks and patents, you solidify your position in the market. By staying adaptable and informed, you combat challenges that other small businesses face, securing your organization’s sustainability. Strategies for Effective Risk Taking Effective risk-taking involves understanding and navigating the uncertainties of running a small business. You can enhance your chances of success through targeted strategies. Risk Assessment Techniques Evaluate potential risks using structured techniques. Implement a SWOT analysis to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats relevant to your business model. Conduct market research to understand competitor actions and consumer behavior. Use financial models to analyze cash flow projections and assess profitability. Engage in scenario planning to anticipate various outcomes based on differing market conditions. Adopting these risk assessment techniques ensures informed decision-making that solidifies your business plan. Mitigation Strategies Reduce potential risks with strategic mitigation plans. Diversify funding sources such as venture capital, angel investors, or crowdfunding to guard against financial uncertainties. Establish a clear legal structure—like an LLC or partnership—to minimize personal liability and streamline operations. Develop a comprehensive business plan that includes a detailed budget and cash flow management to navigate expenses effectively. Adopt insurance policies to protect against losses, and ensure compliance with licenses and permits to avoid legal challenges. Utilize mentorship and resources from business incubators to bolster your resilience against unforeseen obstacles. These strategies provide a robust framework for navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship, ensuring sustainable growth and adaptability. Conclusion Embracing the role of a business risk taker can be a game changer for your entrepreneurial journey. By understanding and navigating uncertainties you position yourself to seize opportunities that others might overlook. Adopting a calculated approach to risk not only enhances your decision-making but also fosters innovation and growth within your business. With the right strategies in place you can transform potential challenges into stepping stones toward success. Remember that every risk you take is a chance to learn and evolve. By embodying the traits of successful risk takers you pave the way for a resilient and thriving business. Frequently Asked Questions What does it mean to be a business risk taker? Being a business risk taker means identifying opportunities in uncertain situations and making informed, calculated decisions to maximize success. It involves embracing potential challenges while developing strategies to mitigate risks. Why is risk-taking important in business? Risk-taking is essential in business because it drives innovation, growth, and competitive advantage. Successful individuals who take calculated risks can differentiate their offerings, pivot during market shifts, and foster a culture that enhances customer loyalty. What are the types of business risks a small business might face? Small businesses should consider various types of risks, including market risks (interest rate changes), financial risks (credit health), and operational risks (supply chain disruptions). Understanding these risks helps in making informed decisions and developing robust plans. How can small business owners take calculated risks? Small business owners can take calculated risks by employing techniques like SWOT analysis, market research, and financial modeling. This approach allows them to assess potential uncertainties and develop strategies that align with their business objectives. What are some strategies for effective risk management? Effective risk management strategies include diversifying funding sources, developing a comprehensive business plan, utilizing mentorship, and establishing a clear legal structure. These techniques help mitigate risks and ensure long-term sustainability in business operations. How can risk-taking foster innovation in business? Risk-taking fosters innovation by encouraging businesses to explore new ideas and solutions. This mindset allows companies to differentiate themselves from competitors and improve product development, ultimately leading to a stronger market presence and customer loyalty. Image Via Envato This article, "Embrace Success as a Business Risk Taker: Strategies for Growth and Innovation" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Sponsored Post Key Takeaways Embrace Uncertainty: Successful business risk takers recognize opportunities within uncertainty and make informed, calculated decisions that can lead to significant rewards. Key Characteristics: Effective risk takers possess traits such as calculated decision-making, adaptability, a clear vision, networking skills, and financial acumen that contribute to their business successes. Types of Risks: Understanding market, financial, and operational risks is essential for small business owners to create effective strategies for navigating challenges and enhancing resilience. Innovation and Competitive Edge: Taking strategic risks fosters innovation, allowing businesses to differentiate themselves, explore new ideas, and achieve growth, ultimately leading to a competitive advantage. Effective Risk Management: Employ risk assessment techniques (like SWOT analysis) and mitigation strategies (such as diversifying funding sources and having a robust business plan) to navigate uncertainties and sustain business success. In the fast-paced world of business, taking risks often separates the successful from the stagnant. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to be a true business risk taker, you’re not alone. These individuals embrace uncertainty, leveraging it to seize opportunities that others might shy away from. Being a risk taker isn’t just about diving headfirst into the unknown; it’s about calculated decisions that can lead to remarkable rewards. Whether you’re an entrepreneur launching a startup or a manager steering a team through change, understanding the art of risk-taking can transform your approach to business. Let’s explore what it means to be a business risk taker and how you can harness this mindset for your own success. Understanding The Business Risk Taker Understanding what it means to be a business risk taker is crucial for small business owners. Risk-taking involves not only embracing uncertainty but also making calculated, informed decisions that propel your startup forward. Definition of Business Risk Taker A business risk taker is someone who identifies opportunities amid uncertainty and takes decisive actions toward maximizing their potential for success. This may involve launching a new product, exploring innovative marketing strategies, or seeking funding options like angel investors or venture capital. By taking these risks, you position your small business to capitalize on emerging trends or market gaps, enhancing your competitive edge. Characteristics of Successful Risk Takers Successful risk takers share several key characteristics that contribute to their achievements in the business landscape: Calculated Decision-Making: They analyze market research and assess potential outcomes before making decisions related to product development or funding. Adaptability: They pivot strategies quickly in response to market changes or customer feedback, ensuring their business model remains relevant. Vision: They maintain a clear vision for their venture while being open to new ideas and innovations that may improve customer acquisition and marketing effectiveness. Networking Skills: They actively seek connections with mentors, business coaches, and other entrepreneurs to exchange knowledge and collaboration opportunities. Financial Acumen: They demonstrate a strong understanding of budgeting, cash flow, and profit margins, essential for sustaining growth and managing expenses effectively. By embodying these characteristics, you enhance your capacity to navigate risks and drive your small business toward success. Types of Business Risks Understanding the types of business risks helps you, as a small business owner or entrepreneur, make informed decisions. Here are three key categories of business risks to consider: Market Risks Market risks, or systematic risks, stem from changes that affect the entire market. Key examples include: Interest Rate Risk: This risk arises from fluctuations in interest rates that impact loans and fixed-income securities. As interest rates rise, the market value of bonds typically falls, affecting your investment options. Equity Risk: This risk involves losses due to changes in stock prices, influenced by your company’s financial performance and market trends. An unstable economy may lead to decreased stock values, impacting your funding strategies. Financial Risks Financial risks pertain to your business’s financial health and access to capital. Key examples include: Credit Risk: This risk arises if customers default on payments or when you seek funding from lenders. A poor credit rating can hinder your ability to secure loans or attract investors. Liquidity Risk: This risk involves not having enough cash on hand to meet expenses. Cash flow management is critical for maintaining operational stability, especially during periods of low sales. Operational Risks Operational risks relate to the internal processes and resources of your business. Key examples include: Supply Chain Risk: This risk arises from disruptions in your supply chain, whether due to natural disasters or supplier failures. Ensuring alternative suppliers can mitigate this risk. Technology Risk: This risk involves system failures or cyber threats. Investing in reliable cybersecurity measures and backup systems safeguards your sensitive data and customer information. By recognizing these risks, you can develop a robust business plan that enhances your resilience and adaptability in the competitive market landscape. Implementing strategies to mitigate these risks supports your long-term business goals and growth strategy. The Benefits of Being a Business Risk Taker Taking risks transforms how your small business operates. This mindset drives innovation and growth, which are crucial for success. Innovation and Growth Embracing calculated risks fosters a culture of innovation. You differentiate your small business from competitors by exploring unique opportunities. By experimenting with new ideas, you enhance product development and discover groundbreaking services that appeal to your target audience. For instance, investing in modern technology or adopting new marketing strategies can lead to increased customer acquisition and sales. Risk-taking promotes your business’s long-term growth strategy, enhancing profitability and expanding market reach. Competitive Advantage Taking strategic risks provides a competitive edge. Knowing potential market shifts allows you to pivot your strategies effectively. You create a unique business model aligned with your vision, leading to strong branding and customer loyalty. Collaborating with other entrepreneurs or leveraging mentorship can yield insights that support innovative thinking. By protecting intellectual property through trademarks and patents, you solidify your position in the market. By staying adaptable and informed, you combat challenges that other small businesses face, securing your organization’s sustainability. Strategies for Effective Risk Taking Effective risk-taking involves understanding and navigating the uncertainties of running a small business. You can enhance your chances of success through targeted strategies. Risk Assessment Techniques Evaluate potential risks using structured techniques. Implement a SWOT analysis to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats relevant to your business model. Conduct market research to understand competitor actions and consumer behavior. Use financial models to analyze cash flow projections and assess profitability. Engage in scenario planning to anticipate various outcomes based on differing market conditions. Adopting these risk assessment techniques ensures informed decision-making that solidifies your business plan. Mitigation Strategies Reduce potential risks with strategic mitigation plans. Diversify funding sources such as venture capital, angel investors, or crowdfunding to guard against financial uncertainties. Establish a clear legal structure—like an LLC or partnership—to minimize personal liability and streamline operations. Develop a comprehensive business plan that includes a detailed budget and cash flow management to navigate expenses effectively. Adopt insurance policies to protect against losses, and ensure compliance with licenses and permits to avoid legal challenges. Utilize mentorship and resources from business incubators to bolster your resilience against unforeseen obstacles. These strategies provide a robust framework for navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship, ensuring sustainable growth and adaptability. Conclusion Embracing the role of a business risk taker can be a game changer for your entrepreneurial journey. By understanding and navigating uncertainties you position yourself to seize opportunities that others might overlook. Adopting a calculated approach to risk not only enhances your decision-making but also fosters innovation and growth within your business. With the right strategies in place you can transform potential challenges into stepping stones toward success. Remember that every risk you take is a chance to learn and evolve. By embodying the traits of successful risk takers you pave the way for a resilient and thriving business. Frequently Asked Questions What does it mean to be a business risk taker? Being a business risk taker means identifying opportunities in uncertain situations and making informed, calculated decisions to maximize success. It involves embracing potential challenges while developing strategies to mitigate risks. Why is risk-taking important in business? Risk-taking is essential in business because it drives innovation, growth, and competitive advantage. Successful individuals who take calculated risks can differentiate their offerings, pivot during market shifts, and foster a culture that enhances customer loyalty. What are the types of business risks a small business might face? Small businesses should consider various types of risks, including market risks (interest rate changes), financial risks (credit health), and operational risks (supply chain disruptions). Understanding these risks helps in making informed decisions and developing robust plans. How can small business owners take calculated risks? Small business owners can take calculated risks by employing techniques like SWOT analysis, market research, and financial modeling. This approach allows them to assess potential uncertainties and develop strategies that align with their business objectives. What are some strategies for effective risk management? Effective risk management strategies include diversifying funding sources, developing a comprehensive business plan, utilizing mentorship, and establishing a clear legal structure. These techniques help mitigate risks and ensure long-term sustainability in business operations. How can risk-taking foster innovation in business? Risk-taking fosters innovation by encouraging businesses to explore new ideas and solutions. This mindset allows companies to differentiate themselves from competitors and improve product development, ultimately leading to a stronger market presence and customer loyalty. Image Via Envato This article, "Embrace Success as a Business Risk Taker: Strategies for Growth and Innovation" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Supporters say move is designed to staff body with Maga-aligned peopleView the full article

Apparent U-turn from president revives Japanese company’s deal after it was blocked by Joe BidenView the full article

A computer science student is behind a new AI tool designed to track down Redditors showing signs of radicalization and deploy bots to “deradicalize” them through conversation. First reported by 404 Media, PrismX was built by Sairaj Balaji, a computer science student at SRMIST in Chennai, India. The tool works by analyzing posts for specific keywords and patterns associated with extreme views, giving those users a “radical score.” High scorers are then targeted by AI bots programmed to attempt deradicalization through engaging the user in conversation. According to the federal government, the primary terror threat to the U.S. now is individuals radicalized to violence online through social media. At the same time, fears around surveillance technology and artificial intelligence infiltrating online communities pose an ethical minefield. Responding to concerns, Balaji clarified in a Linkedin post that the conversation part of the tool has not been tested on real Reddit users without consent. Instead, the scoring and conversation elements were used in simulated environments for research-purposes only. “The tool was designed to provoke discussion, not controversy,” he explained in the post. “We’re at a point in history where rogue actors and nation-states are already deploying weaponized AI. If a college student can build something like PrismX, it raises urgent questions: Who’s watching the watchers?” While Balaji doesn’t claim to be an expert in deradicalization, as an engineer, he is interested in the ethical implications of surveillance technology. “Discomfort sparks debate. Debate leads to oversight. And oversight is how we prevent the misuse of emerging technologies,” he continued. This isn’t the first time Redditors have been used as guinea pigs in recent months. Just last month, researchers from the University of Zurich faced intense backlash after experimenting on an unsuspecting subreddit. The research involved deploying AI-powered bots into the r/ChangeMyView subreddit, which positions itself as a “place to post an opinion you accept may be flawed”, in an experiment to see if AI could be used to change peoples’ minds. When Redditors, and Reddit itself, found out they were being experimented on without their knowledge, they weren’t impressed. Reddit’s chief legal officer, Ben Lee, wrote in a post that neither Reddit nor the r/changemyview mods knew about the experiment ahead of time. “What this University of Zurich team did is deeply wrong on both a moral and legal level,” Lee wrote. “It violates academic research and human rights norms, and is prohibited by Reddit’s user agreement and rules, in addition to the subreddit rules.” While PrismX is not currently being tested on real unconsenting users, it piles on the ever-growing question of the role of artificial intelligence in human spaces. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. You've been hard at work all week, as have I—as Lifehacker's tech deals writer, I've been hunting down the best deals on TVs, speakers, laptops, and other tech all week. Now sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's highlights, all of which I've vetted using my favorite price tracking tools. This week was the start of retailers launching their Memorial Day sales. You can find deals on Pixel phones, Sonos speakers, Sleep Number beds, OLED TVs, smart watches, and much more. Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker Roam 2 $134.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $179.00 Save $45.00 Get Deal Get Deal $134.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $179.00 Save $45.00 Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds (Refurbished) Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 (refurbished) $169.99 at Stack Social $249.99 Save $80.00 Get Deal Get Deal $169.99 at Stack Social $249.99 Save $80.00 Tozo OpenEarRing $29.99 at Amazon $59.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal Get Deal $29.99 at Amazon $59.99 Save $30.00 Google Pixel 9 128GB Unlocked 6.9" OLED Smartphone (Obsidian) $599.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $799.00 Save $200.00 Get Deal Get Deal $599.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $799.00 Save $200.00 Google Pixel Watch 2 $149.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $249.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Get Deal $149.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $249.99 Save $100.00 BOGO with Free TV - KD-50X77L BRAVIA 8 II 55” Class QD-OLED 4K HDR Google TV (2025) $3,499.99 at Sony Get Deal Get Deal $3,499.99 at Sony i8 Sleep Number mattress $3,289.30 at Sleep Number $4,699.00 Save $1,409.70 Get Deal Get Deal $3,289.30 at Sleep Number $4,699.00 Save $1,409.70 16GB Unified Memory, 256GB SSD Storage Apple 2025 MacBook Air $899.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $999.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal Get Deal $899.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $999.00 Save $100.00 Craftsman VERSASTACK Mechanics Tool Set $99.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $199.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal Get Deal $99.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $199.00 Save $100.00 Peloton Bike $1,145.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $1,445.00 Save $300.00 Get Deal Get Deal $1,145.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $1,445.00 Save $300.00 SEE 7 MORE The Sonos Roam 2 is Sonos's least expensive speaker, and it's at its lowest price ever. It is a waterproof device on sale for $134 (originally $179) at Amazon, part of a small Sonos sale that also includes a discount on the larger Sonos Move 2 (also currently at its lowest price ever). The Powerbeats Pro 2 are Beats' latest headphones, and you won't find them at their current $169.99 (originally $249.99) price point for a while. These are refurbished from Stack Social, and you can read more about them in this review. They're great for the gym, but if you're not a gym rat, there are other Beats on sale as well. There are some great budget headphones and earbuds on sale during Amazon's Memorial Day sale, but the Tozo OpenEarRing stand out as budget open ear headphones currently going for just $29.99 (originally $59.99). If you're looking for a solid phone at a good price for Memorial Day, consider the Google Pixel 9, currently $599 (originally $799). It's the best standard Pixel model so far, and it's at its lowest price right now. For those who want the latest phones, the Galaxy S25 Edge preorder deals with a $50 Amazon gift card are still live. The Original Peloton is $1,145 (originally $1,445), the cheapest it has dropped to this year. And if you're looking for more fitness equipment deals for Memorial Day, check out these from Amazon. Speaking of fitness, smartwatches and fitness trackers are also on sale, including Garmin smartwatches. The highlight is the Google Pixel Watch 2, which dropped in price to $149.99 (originally $249.99) after the release of the Pixel Watch 3. One of my favorite deals this week has been the BOGO sale from Sony. You can buy the new Bravia 8 II OLED Google TV starting at $3,499 and get a free a X77L LED Google TV, valued at $589.99. Memorial Day also means getting deals on tools, and Amazon has them going up to 60% off right now. This Craftsman 230-piece mechanics tool set is on sale for $99, 50% off its regular price. It comes with ratchets, wrenches, a hand-held screwdriver, and several specialty bits. As usual with most Memorial Day deals, you can find mattresses on sale, but the i8 Smart Bed is not a regular mattress. You can read about my experience with this smart bed with adjustable firmness and a companion app that tracks your sleep. It is currently 30% off during the Memorial Day sale. It's crazy to think you can get Apple's latest MacBook Air with an M4 chip for $899 (originally $999). A couple of months ago, that money got you the M2, but now you can get the best MacBook for most people at the same price. View the full article

Artificial intelligence continues to be the thing in tech—whether consumers are interested or not. What strikes me most about generative AI isn't its features or potential to make my life easier (a potential I have yet to realize); rather, I'm focused these days on the many threats that seem to be rising from this technology. There's misinformation, for sure—new AI video models, for example, are creating realistic clips complete with lip-synced audio. But there's also the classic AI threat, that the technology becomes both more intelligent than us and self-aware, and chooses to use that general intelligence in a way that does not benefit humanity. Even as he pours resources into his own AI company (not to mention the current administration, as well) Elon Musk sees a 10 to 20% chance that AI "goes bad," and that the tech remains a “significant existential threat." Cool. So it doesn't necessarily bring me comfort to hear a high-profile, established tech executive jokingly discuss how treating AI poorly maximizes its potential. That would be Google co-founder Sergey Brin, who surprised an audience at a recording of the AIl-In podcast this week. During a talk that spanned Brin's return to Google, AI, and robotics, investor Jason Calacanis made a joke about getting "sassy" with the AI to get it to do the task he wanted. That sparked a legitimate point from Brin. It can be tough to tell exactly what he says at times due to people speaking over one another, but he says something to the effect of: "You know, that's a weird thing...we don't circulate this much...in the AI community...not just our models, but all models tend to do better if you threaten them." The other speaker looks surprised. "If you threaten them?" Brin responds "Like with physical violence. But...people feel weird about that, so we don't really talk about that." Brin then says that, historically, you threaten the model with kidnapping. You can see the exchange here: The conversation quickly shifts to other topics, including how kids are growing up with AI, but that comment is what I carried away from my viewing. What are we doing here? Have we lost the plot? Does no one remember Terminator? Jokes aside, it seems like a bad practice to start threatening AI models in order to get them to do something. Sure, maybe these programs never actually achieve artificial general intelligence (AGI), but I mean, I remember when the discussion was around whether we should say "please" and "thank you" when asking things of Alexa or Siri. Forget the niceties; just abuse ChatGPT until it does what you want it to—that should end well for everyone. Maybe AI does perform best when you threaten it. Maybe something in the training understands that "threats" mean the task should be taken more seriously. You won't catch me testing that hypothesis on my personal accounts. Anthropic might offer an example of why not to torture your AIIn the same week as this podcast recording, Anthropic released its latest Claude AI models. One Anthropic employee took to Bluesky, and mentioned that Opus, the company's highest performing model, can take it upon itself to try to stop you from doing "immoral" things, by contacting regulators, the press, or locking you out of the system: welcome to the future, now your error-prone software can call the cops (this is an Anthropic employee talking about Claude Opus 4)[image or embed] — Molly White (@molly.wiki) May 22, 2025 at 4:55 PM The employee went on to clarify that this has only ever happened in "clear-cut cases of wrongdoing," but that they could see the bot going rogue should it interpret how it's being used in a negative way. Check out the employee's particularly relevant example below: can't wait to explain to my family that the robot swatted me after i threatened its non-existent grandma[image or embed] — Molly White (@molly.wiki) May 22, 2025 at 5:09 PM That employee later deleted those posts and specified that this only happens during testing given unusual instructions and access to tools. Even if that is true, if it can happen in testing, it's entirely possible it can happen in a future version of the model. Speaking of testing, Anthropic researchers found that this new model of Claude is prone to deception and blackmail, should the bot believe it is being threatened or dislikes the way an interaction is going. Perhaps we should take torturing AI off the table? View the full article

Counterterrorism police looking into fires at properties connected to prime minister keep open mind about motiveView the full article

A federal judge temporarily blocked the The President administration’s ban to prevent international students from enrolling at Harvard on Friday, the latest development in the White House’s escalating pressure campaign against the Ivy League university. The judge granted Harvard’s request for a temporary restraining order on the basis that the school would “sustain immediate and irreparable injury” before a hearing, which CNBC reports is set for Tuesday, could take place. On Thursday, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem ordered her agency to withdraw the school’s certification for admitting foreign students, known as a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification. The change would block future international students from enrolling at Harvard while also imperiling the legal status of international students currently studying there. The university filed a lawsuit on Friday morning to oppose the ban, arguing that violates the First Amendment. “Harvard has, over this time, developed programs and degrees tailored to its international students, invested millions to recruit the most talented such students, and integrated its international students into all aspects of the Harvard community,” the lawsuit states, noting that the university along with 7,000 visa holders would suffer “immediate and devastating” effects. Homeland Security accused Harvard of permitting “anti-American, pro-terrorist agitators” and jeopardizing safety on campus, pointing the finger at foreign students. The agency also referenced alleged connections between the university and the Chinese Communist Party. “They have lost their Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification as a result of their failure to adhere to the law,” Noem said. “Let this serve as a warning to all universities and academic institutions across the country.” The escalation against Harvard is the latest attack on high profile universities during The President’s second term. The administration has repeatedly targeted Harvard and other universities over their diversity, equity and inclusion commitments and claims that they foster antisemitism through student protests over Israel’s ongoing invasion of Gaza. However the The President administration’s attack on Harvard shakes out in court, schools that attract the best and brightest from around the globe are likely to suffer as foreign students think twice about taking the risk on elite American universities. View the full article

Key Takeaways Real-Time Monitoring: Shopify Live View provides instant access to visitor counts and sales activity, empowering merchants to make timely decisions based on current data. Enhanced Customer Engagement: By analyzing customer behavior in real time, you can tailor marketing strategies, leading to personalized shopping experiences and increased conversion rates. Valuable Insights: The feature offers geolocation tracking and sales analytics, helping you understand customer locations and popular products, which inform targeted marketing efforts. User-Friendly Setup: Setting up Shopify Live View involves a simple step-by-step process, making it accessible for all merchants looking to optimize their online store. Operational Optimization: Utilize insights from Live View to adjust staffing and inventory based on peak shopping times, enhancing overall efficiency and customer satisfaction. Continuous Improvement: Fostering a culture of sharing data insights with your team helps align efforts toward enhancing customer service and maximizing sales potential. Imagine having a real-time window into your online store’s activity. With Shopify Live View, you can do just that. This powerful feature allows you to monitor customer interactions, track sales as they happen, and gain valuable insights into your store’s performance. In today’s fast-paced e-commerce landscape, understanding your customers’ behavior is crucial. Live View provides you with the data you need to make informed decisions, optimize your marketing strategies, and enhance your overall shopping experience. Whether you’re a seasoned merchant or just starting out, harnessing the power of Live View can give you a competitive edge. Let’s dive into how this feature can transform your Shopify store. Overview of Shopify Live View Shopify Live View allows you to monitor real-time customer interactions in your online store. This feature provides insights into sales activity, enabling you to enhance your retail strategies. What Is Shopify Live View? Shopify Live View is a dashboard that displays live data about your store’s performance. It shows current visitor counts, order trends, and customer behavior. With this information, you can understand how customers interact with your storefront at any moment. This capability is essential for small business owners looking to optimize their operations and improve customer experiences. Key Features of Shopify Live View Real-Time Data Tracking: Track the number of visitors on your site and observe which products are currently being viewed or purchased. Order Updates: Receive instant notifications about new orders, allowing you to manage your inventory effectively. Customer Insights: Analyze customer behavior patterns to determine peak shopping times and popular products in your store. Geolocation Tracking: View where your customers are located, which helps you tailor marketing strategies to specific regions. Sales Analytics: Access detailed reports on sales performance, equipping you with the data necessary to make informed business decisions. Benefits of Using Shopify Live View Shopify Live View offers powerful benefits for small businesses by providing insights into real-time operations and customer interactions. This feature is essential for optimizing your retail storefront and enhancing overall performance. Real-Time Monitoring Real-time monitoring allows you to track visitor counts and sales activity as it happens. You can see how many customers are shopping in your store at any moment. With instant order updates, you stay informed about purchases as they occur. This information helps you identify peak shopping times, enabling you to adjust staffing levels and inventory to meet demand effectively. Moreover, it fosters proactive decision-making, allowing you to seize opportunities before they pass. Enhanced Customer Engagement Enhanced customer engagement results from understanding your customers better. With Shopify Live View, you gain insights into customer behavior, such as popular products and preferred browsing patterns. This knowledge lets you tailor marketing strategies to specific customer interests. Engaging with customers in real-time creates a more personalized shopping experience, encouraging them to spend more time in your storefront. By addressing customer needs as they arise, you improve satisfaction and boost your store’s conversion rates. How to Set Up Shopify Live View Setting up Shopify Live View is a straightforward process that enhances your online storefront’s functionality. This tool provides vital insights for small business owners looking to optimize operations and customer engagement. Step-by-Step Installation Guide Log into your Shopify account: Access your admin panel using your login credentials. Navigate to the Analytics section: Click on “Analytics” in the left-hand menu. Select Live View: Under the Analytics category, choose “Live View” to open the dashboard. Customize your view: Adjust the display settings to showcase the metrics most relevant to your retail goals, such as visitor counts and order trends. Save your settings: After customizing, make sure to save your configurations for future access. Tips for Optimization Monitor peak times: Analyze the data to identify high-traffic periods to optimize staffing and inventory. Engage with real-time insights: Use customer behavior data to tailor marketing efforts and enhance the shopping experience. Leverage geolocation tracking: Understand where your customers come from to fine-tune your promotional strategies in specific areas. Utilize sales analytics: Regularly review sales trends to adapt your inventory and marketing approaches for better performance. Share insights with your team: Keep your staff informed about Live View data to align efforts in improving customer service and maximizing sales. User Experience and Feedback Shopify Live View significantly enhances your ability to monitor customer interactions within your online storefront. Understanding user experiences and feedback can refine your approach to retail and inform key business strategies. Positive Aspects Real-Time Data Access: You gain instant visibility into visitor counts and order trends. Real-time data fosters quicker decision-making, allowing you to respond to customer needs promptly. Enhanced Engagement: The insights you gather lead to tailored customer interactions. By analyzing real-time behavior, you can create more personalized shopping experiences, which boosts customer satisfaction. Optimized Operations: You can identify peak shopping times through the dashboard. This information helps you adjust staffing and inventory effectively, improving your store’s efficiency and enhancing customer experiences. Sales Insights: The detailed analytics provide clarity on what products resonate with your audience. Understanding sales patterns allows you to strategize promotions and stock management. Common Challenges Data Overload: You might find the abundance of data overwhelming. Focusing on key metrics helps streamline your analysis and decision-making processes. Geolocation Limitations: Although geolocation tracking is beneficial, it may not cover all visitors. Limited data about certain customer segments might impact your marketing strategies. Adjustment Period: Familiarizing yourself with Shopify Live View takes time. Investing effort into understanding the dashboard ensures you maximize its benefits. Interpreting Insights: Analyzing the data collected may present challenges. It’s essential to convert insights into actionable strategies that effectively enhance your retail operations. Conclusion Embracing Shopify Live View can transform how you manage your online store. With real-time insights at your fingertips you can make informed decisions that elevate customer experiences and drive sales. By understanding visitor behavior and sales trends you can tailor your marketing strategies to meet customer needs effectively. Utilizing this powerful tool not only enhances your operational efficiency but also fosters a more engaging shopping environment. As you navigate the competitive e-commerce landscape remember that leveraging real-time data is key to staying ahead. Make the most of Shopify Live View and watch your store thrive. Frequently Asked Questions What is Shopify Live View? Shopify Live View is a feature that allows online store owners to monitor real-time customer interactions and sales activity. It provides insights into current visitor counts, order trends, and customer behavior to help merchants make informed decisions and optimize their e-commerce strategies. How can Shopify Live View benefit my store? Shopify Live View helps store owners identify peak shopping times, adjust staffing, and optimize inventory. It enhances customer engagement through insights into behavior, allowing for tailored marketing strategies and ultimately improving conversion rates and customer satisfaction. What key features does Shopify Live View offer? Key features of Shopify Live View include real-time data tracking, instant order updates, customer insights, geolocation tracking, and detailed sales analytics. These features facilitate better monitoring of store performance and customer interactions. How do I set up Shopify Live View? To set up Shopify Live View, log into your Shopify account, go to the Analytics section, select Live View, customize the display settings to your preference, and save the configurations. What optimization tips can I use with Live View? Optimization tips for using Shopify Live View include monitoring peak shopping times, engaging with real-time insights, leveraging geolocation tracking, and utilizing sales analytics. Sharing insights with your team can also enhance customer service efforts. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQZntbd5QGI What challenges might I face with Shopify Live View? Challenges with Shopify Live View may include data overload, limitations in geolocation accuracy, an adjustment period for users, and the need to effectively interpret insights into actionable strategies for your store. Image Via Envato This article, "Maximize Your E-Commerce Success with Shopify Live View for Real-Time Insights" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Real-Time Monitoring: Shopify Live View provides instant access to visitor counts and sales activity, empowering merchants to make timely decisions based on current data. Enhanced Customer Engagement: By analyzing customer behavior in real time, you can tailor marketing strategies, leading to personalized shopping experiences and increased conversion rates. Valuable Insights: The feature offers geolocation tracking and sales analytics, helping you understand customer locations and popular products, which inform targeted marketing efforts. User-Friendly Setup: Setting up Shopify Live View involves a simple step-by-step process, making it accessible for all merchants looking to optimize their online store. Operational Optimization: Utilize insights from Live View to adjust staffing and inventory based on peak shopping times, enhancing overall efficiency and customer satisfaction. Continuous Improvement: Fostering a culture of sharing data insights with your team helps align efforts toward enhancing customer service and maximizing sales potential. Imagine having a real-time window into your online store’s activity. With Shopify Live View, you can do just that. This powerful feature allows you to monitor customer interactions, track sales as they happen, and gain valuable insights into your store’s performance. In today’s fast-paced e-commerce landscape, understanding your customers’ behavior is crucial. Live View provides you with the data you need to make informed decisions, optimize your marketing strategies, and enhance your overall shopping experience. Whether you’re a seasoned merchant or just starting out, harnessing the power of Live View can give you a competitive edge. Let’s dive into how this feature can transform your Shopify store. Overview of Shopify Live View Shopify Live View allows you to monitor real-time customer interactions in your online store. This feature provides insights into sales activity, enabling you to enhance your retail strategies. What Is Shopify Live View? Shopify Live View is a dashboard that displays live data about your store’s performance. It shows current visitor counts, order trends, and customer behavior. With this information, you can understand how customers interact with your storefront at any moment. This capability is essential for small business owners looking to optimize their operations and improve customer experiences. Key Features of Shopify Live View Real-Time Data Tracking: Track the number of visitors on your site and observe which products are currently being viewed or purchased. Order Updates: Receive instant notifications about new orders, allowing you to manage your inventory effectively. Customer Insights: Analyze customer behavior patterns to determine peak shopping times and popular products in your store. Geolocation Tracking: View where your customers are located, which helps you tailor marketing strategies to specific regions. Sales Analytics: Access detailed reports on sales performance, equipping you with the data necessary to make informed business decisions. Benefits of Using Shopify Live View Shopify Live View offers powerful benefits for small businesses by providing insights into real-time operations and customer interactions. This feature is essential for optimizing your retail storefront and enhancing overall performance. Real-Time Monitoring Real-time monitoring allows you to track visitor counts and sales activity as it happens. You can see how many customers are shopping in your store at any moment. With instant order updates, you stay informed about purchases as they occur. This information helps you identify peak shopping times, enabling you to adjust staffing levels and inventory to meet demand effectively. Moreover, it fosters proactive decision-making, allowing you to seize opportunities before they pass. Enhanced Customer Engagement Enhanced customer engagement results from understanding your customers better. With Shopify Live View, you gain insights into customer behavior, such as popular products and preferred browsing patterns. This knowledge lets you tailor marketing strategies to specific customer interests. Engaging with customers in real-time creates a more personalized shopping experience, encouraging them to spend more time in your storefront. By addressing customer needs as they arise, you improve satisfaction and boost your store’s conversion rates. How to Set Up Shopify Live View Setting up Shopify Live View is a straightforward process that enhances your online storefront’s functionality. This tool provides vital insights for small business owners looking to optimize operations and customer engagement. Step-by-Step Installation Guide Log into your Shopify account: Access your admin panel using your login credentials. Navigate to the Analytics section: Click on “Analytics” in the left-hand menu. Select Live View: Under the Analytics category, choose “Live View” to open the dashboard. Customize your view: Adjust the display settings to showcase the metrics most relevant to your retail goals, such as visitor counts and order trends. Save your settings: After customizing, make sure to save your configurations for future access. Tips for Optimization Monitor peak times: Analyze the data to identify high-traffic periods to optimize staffing and inventory. Engage with real-time insights: Use customer behavior data to tailor marketing efforts and enhance the shopping experience. Leverage geolocation tracking: Understand where your customers come from to fine-tune your promotional strategies in specific areas. Utilize sales analytics: Regularly review sales trends to adapt your inventory and marketing approaches for better performance. Share insights with your team: Keep your staff informed about Live View data to align efforts in improving customer service and maximizing sales. User Experience and Feedback Shopify Live View significantly enhances your ability to monitor customer interactions within your online storefront. Understanding user experiences and feedback can refine your approach to retail and inform key business strategies. Positive Aspects Real-Time Data Access: You gain instant visibility into visitor counts and order trends. Real-time data fosters quicker decision-making, allowing you to respond to customer needs promptly. Enhanced Engagement: The insights you gather lead to tailored customer interactions. By analyzing real-time behavior, you can create more personalized shopping experiences, which boosts customer satisfaction. Optimized Operations: You can identify peak shopping times through the dashboard. This information helps you adjust staffing and inventory effectively, improving your store’s efficiency and enhancing customer experiences. Sales Insights: The detailed analytics provide clarity on what products resonate with your audience. Understanding sales patterns allows you to strategize promotions and stock management. Common Challenges Data Overload: You might find the abundance of data overwhelming. Focusing on key metrics helps streamline your analysis and decision-making processes. Geolocation Limitations: Although geolocation tracking is beneficial, it may not cover all visitors. Limited data about certain customer segments might impact your marketing strategies. Adjustment Period: Familiarizing yourself with Shopify Live View takes time. Investing effort into understanding the dashboard ensures you maximize its benefits. Interpreting Insights: Analyzing the data collected may present challenges. It’s essential to convert insights into actionable strategies that effectively enhance your retail operations. Conclusion Embracing Shopify Live View can transform how you manage your online store. With real-time insights at your fingertips you can make informed decisions that elevate customer experiences and drive sales. By understanding visitor behavior and sales trends you can tailor your marketing strategies to meet customer needs effectively. Utilizing this powerful tool not only enhances your operational efficiency but also fosters a more engaging shopping environment. As you navigate the competitive e-commerce landscape remember that leveraging real-time data is key to staying ahead. Make the most of Shopify Live View and watch your store thrive. Frequently Asked Questions What is Shopify Live View? Shopify Live View is a feature that allows online store owners to monitor real-time customer interactions and sales activity. It provides insights into current visitor counts, order trends, and customer behavior to help merchants make informed decisions and optimize their e-commerce strategies. How can Shopify Live View benefit my store? Shopify Live View helps store owners identify peak shopping times, adjust staffing, and optimize inventory. It enhances customer engagement through insights into behavior, allowing for tailored marketing strategies and ultimately improving conversion rates and customer satisfaction. What key features does Shopify Live View offer? Key features of Shopify Live View include real-time data tracking, instant order updates, customer insights, geolocation tracking, and detailed sales analytics. These features facilitate better monitoring of store performance and customer interactions. How do I set up Shopify Live View? To set up Shopify Live View, log into your Shopify account, go to the Analytics section, select Live View, customize the display settings to your preference, and save the configurations. What optimization tips can I use with Live View? Optimization tips for using Shopify Live View include monitoring peak shopping times, engaging with real-time insights, leveraging geolocation tracking, and utilizing sales analytics. Sharing insights with your team can also enhance customer service efforts. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQZntbd5QGI What challenges might I face with Shopify Live View? Challenges with Shopify Live View may include data overload, limitations in geolocation accuracy, an adjustment period for users, and the need to effectively interpret insights into actionable strategies for your store. Image Via Envato This article, "Maximize Your E-Commerce Success with Shopify Live View for Real-Time Insights" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We should have known it was too good to last. After markets enjoyed a month of relative peace in Donald The President’s trade war with the world—a stretch of time during which The President paused his so-called “reciprocal” tariffs on most countries and then rolled back his massive 145% tariffs on China—the president reignited the conflict Friday morning with a couple of posts on TruthSocial. First, he directly threatened Apple with a company-specific 25% tariff on all iPhones if it shifts production to India from China, rather than to the U.S. Then, he attacked the European Union for being “very difficult to deal with,” and said he wanted to impose a 50% tariff on all US imports from the EU on June 1. The threats—which it’s far from clear he has the legal authority to follow through on—rattled markets severely at first, with S&P futures dropping more than 2%. Stocks recovered somewhat after Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent tried to cool investor anxieties in an appearance on Fox, and European officials said they were continuing to negotiate. But the turmoil engendered by The President’s posts was a reminder of the fact that U.S. trade policy is now being made, in effect, by presidential whim, making the future profits of many American companies dependent on how The President happens to feel on any given day. When the president, first unveiled his plan to impose high tariffs on imports from most of the world’s countries—which he called “Liberation Day“—he claimed that the goal of his scheme was to bring about an “ECONOMIC REVOLUTION.” But that implied a level of planning and strategy that has been sorely lacking in the way The President has handled tariffs since April 2. He jacked up tariffs (relying on an absurd formula) only to roll them back when markets cratered. He promised that trade deals galore were in the offing only to then say he would raise tariffs unilaterally because the deals were taking too long to do. And he promised a 90-day pause on all the reciprocal tariffs, only to now say he’s going to tariff the EU less than 60 days into the pause. The most obvious consequence of The President’s chaotic trade policy is that he has massively increased the amount of uncertainty American businesses (and, by extension, American consumers) will face going forward. It’s next to impossible for businesses that import goods (either for sale or as part of their supply chain) to make reasonable plans for the future, since there’s no way for them to know what The President will require them to pay for imports down the road. Nor is there any guarantee that the tariff rates The President comes up with will stay the same over time. As a result, companies don’t know whether they should now be massively stocking up on imports in anticipation of higher tariffs (a move that would increase their inventory costs)—or if they should be buying like normal in anticipation that deals will get made. They have to decide, but that decision can’t be built on much more than guesswork. The only thing companies do know, in fact, is that regardless of whatever else The President decides, they’re going to have to pay a 10% universal tariff on everything they import (along with permanently higher tariffs on imports from certain countries, like China). This universal 10% tariff—which The President imposed on Liberation Day and kept in place even as he rolled his other tariffs back—is not a bargaining tool or a threat: It’s here to stay for as long as The President remains president. So companies are facing permanently higher import costs on top of major uncertainty. The fact that, for all his changes of mind, The President has stayed committed to the 10% universal tariff isn’t surprising. In the first place, it was one of his oft-repeated campaign promises—he said it would be a “ring” around the U.S. economy. And it fits well with The President’s basic view of trade, which is that when we buy stuff made abroad, we’re “losing money,” so the government should charge what he thinks of as effectively a cover charge to sell to U.S. customers. (That cover charge, of course, is paid by the U.S. businesses that are importing the goods, but The President prefers to ignore that fact.) The President may talk about the importance of opening foreign markets (as he did in his post about the E.U. Friday morning). But he’s always been more interested in imposing tariffs on imports than he has been in encouraging exports. The 10% tariff is not as dramatic as the China tariffs, or the threats against the E.U. and Apple, which helps explain why investors have, for the most part, shrugged off its potential impact. But American businesses and consumers won’t be so lucky. That’s why Walmart said on an earnings call last week that it would be hiking prices as soon as the end of the month because of tariff costs. As the company’s CFO explained in an interview with CNBC, “We’re wired for everyday low prices, but the magnitude of these increases is more than any retailer can absorb. And so I’m concerned that consumer is going to start seeing higher prices.” This of course infuriated The President, who wrote on TruthSocial that Walmart should “eat the tariffs.” But the company was simply acknowledging economic reality: Its net profit margin last year was around 2.6%, and it imports almost $50 billion a year in goods from China alone, plus tens of billions of dollars of goods from other countries. It does not have the leeway to absorb a sizable increase in the price of those goods without passing at least some of the cost along. And the same is true of many other retailers—indeed, it’s even more true of small-to-medium-sized retailers. In response to The President’s criticism, the company said, “We’ll keep prices as low as we can for as long as we can given the reality of small retail margins.” But the message was ultimately the same: Prices will have to rise. Those price increases are not likely to be massive. But that doesn’t mean they won’t matter. What The President’s policy means is that we are now looking at a global economy in which tariffs are going to be higher across the board, and in which he is imposing, at a minimum, a new 10% tax on trade. When you tax something, you get less of it, meaning that in addition to higher retail prices, we’re likely to have less trade and lower retail sales. This will be even more true if The President follows through on his latest threats. But even if he backs down from them, the Yale Budget Lab estimates that a universal 10% tariff with 60% tariffs on Chinese imports (which would be a little higher than they are now) would cost consumers, on average, a minimum of $1,900 a year in higher prices, and could shrink U.S. GDP by somewhere between 0.5% and 1.4%. We may yet dodge the disaster that the U.S. is headed for if The President ends up returning to his original Liberation Day tariffs, and if we have a real trade war with the E.U. and China. But even if we do, the tariffs we’ll still be stuck with are going to be a permanent, steady drag on the economy, a drag that may not be big enough to make headlines, but that will nonetheless be impossible to avoid. View the full article