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US president dampens expectations about Ukrainian-Russian talks in TurkeyView the full article

Christine Farro has cut back on the presents she sends her grandchildren on their birthdays, and she’s put off taking two cats and a dog for their shots. All her clothes come from thrift stores and most of her vegetables come from her garden. At 73, she has cut her costs as much as she can to live on a tight budget. But it’s about to get far tighter. As the The President administration resumes collections on defaulted student loans, a surprising population has been caught in the crosshairs: Hundreds of thousands of older Americans whose decades-old debts now put them at risk of having their Social Security checks garnished. “I worked ridiculous hours. I worked weekends and nights. But I could never pay it off,” says Farro, a retired child welfare worker in Santa Ynez, California. Like millions of debtors with federal student loans, Farro had her payments and interest paused by the government five years ago when the pandemic thrust many into financial hardship. That grace period ended in 2023 and, earlier this month, the Department of Education said it would restart “involuntary collections” by garnishing paychecks, tax refunds and Social Security retirement and disability benefits. Farro previously had her Social Security garnished and expects it to restart. Farro’s loans date back 40 years. She was a single mother when she got a bachelor’s degree in developmental psychology and when she discovered she couldn’t earn enough to pay off her loans, she went back to school and got a master’s degree. Her salary never caught up. Things only got worse. Around 2008, when she consolidated her loans, she was paying $1,000 a month, but years of missed payments and piled-on interest meant she was barely putting a dent in a bill that had ballooned to $250,000. When she sought help to resolve her debt, she says the loan company had just one suggestion. “They said, ‘Move to a cheaper state,'” says Farro, who rents a 400-square-foot casita from a friend. “I realized I was living in a different reality than they were.” Student loan debt among older people has grown at a staggering rate, in part due to rising tuitions that have forced more people to borrow greater sums. People 60 and older hold an estimated $125 billion in student loans, according to the National Consumer Law Center, a six-fold increase from 20 years ago. That has led Social Security beneficiaries who have had their payments garnished to balloon by 3,000% over the same period, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. An estimated 452,000 people aged 62 and older had student loans in default, according to a January report from CFPB. Debbie McIntyre, a 62-year-old adult education teacher in Georgetown, Kentucky, is among them. She dreams of retiring and writing more historical fiction, and of boarding a plane for the first time since high school. But her husband has been out of work on disability for two decades and they’ve used credit cards to get by on his meager benefits and her paycheck. Their rent will be hiked $300 when their lease renews. McIntyre doesn’t know what to do if her paycheck is garnished. She floats the idea of bankruptcy, but that won’t automatically clear her loans, which are held to a different standard than other debt. She figures if she picks up extra jobs babysitting or tutoring, she could put $50 toward her loans here and there. But she sees no real solution. “I don’t know what more I can do,” says McIntyre, who is too afraid to check what her loan balance is. “I’ll never get out of this hole.” Braxton Brewington of the Debt Collective debtors union says it’s striking how many older people dial into the organization’s calls and attend its protests. Many of them, he says, should have had their debts cancelled but fell victim to a system “riddled with flaws and illegalities and flukes.” Many whose educations have left them in late-life debt have, in fact, paid back the principal on their loans, sometimes several times over, but still owe more due to interest and fees. For those who are subject to garnishment, Brewington says, the results can be devastating. “We hear from people who skip meals. We know people who dilute their medication or cut their pills in half. People take drastic measures like pulling all their savings out or dissolving their 401ks,” he says. “We know folks that have been driven into homelessness.” Collections on defaulted loans may have restarted no matter who was president, though the Biden administration had sought to limit the amount of income that could be garnished. Federal law protects just $750 of Social Security benefits from garnishment, an amount that would put a debtor far below the poverty line. “We’re basically providing people with federal benefits with one hand and taking them away with another,” says Sarah Sattelmeyer of the New America think tank. Linda Hilton, a 76-year-old retired office worker from Apache Junction, Arizona, went through garnishment before COVID and says she will survive it again. But flights to see her children, occasional meals at a restaurant and other pleasures of retired life may disappear. “It’s going to mean restrictions,” says Hilton. “There won’t be any travel. There won’t be any frills.” Some debtors have already received notice about collections. Many more are living in fear. President Donald The President has signed an executive order calling for the Department of Education’s dismantling and, for those seeking answers about their loans, mass layoffs have complicated getting calls answered. While Education Secretary Linda McMahon says restarting collections is a necessary step for debtors “both for the sake of their own financial health and our nation’s economic outlook,” even some of The President’s most fervent supporters are questioning a move that will make their lives harder. Randall Countryman, 55, of Bonita, California, says a Biden administration proposal to forgive some student debt didn’t strike him as fair, but he’s not sure The President’s approach is either. He supported The President but wishes the government made case-by-case decisions on debtors. Countryman thinks Americans don’t realize how many older people are affected by policies on student loans, often thought to be the turf of the young, and how difficult it can be for them to repay. “What’s a young person’s problem today,” he says, “is an old person’s problem tomorrow.” Countryman started working on a degree while in prison, then continued it at the University of Phoenix when he was released. He started growing nervous as he racked up loan debt and never finished his degree. He’s worked a host of different jobs, but finding work has often been complicated by his criminal record. He lives off his wife’s Social Security check and the kindness of his mother-in-law. He doesn’t know how they’d get by if the government demands repayment. “I kind of wish I never went to school in the first place,” he says. Matt Sedensky can be reached at msedensky@ap.org and https://x.com/sedensky —Matt Sedensky, AP National Writer View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Though streaming movies often get lost in the shuffle, Prime Video has managed to assemble a fairly impressive run of films that have broken through not merely in terms of viewership, but in the broader world of awards—including a handful of Best Picture Oscar nominees. You're probably already paying for an Amazon Prime subscription, so you might as well take advantage of Prime Video's library of exclusive offerings. Here are some of the best of the bunch. G20 (2025) What do you do when you're an EGOT laureate whose awards shelves are overflowing? Anything you want, apparently—as Viola Davis' recent turn to action roles in the last couple of years bears out. Here she plays U.S. President Danielle Sutton, with a rebellious daughter and a plan to boost the fortunes of sub-Saharan African farmers. She's also an Army veteran, which isn't just a resume detail—those skills come in handy when an Australian mercenary and company ambush the G20 summit with an eye toward making a fortune in crypto. Big mistake! Viola Davis: Action President goes all Die Hard on the mercenaries, and, yes, it's as silly as it sounds, but still a lot of fun. You can stream G20 here. Another Simple Favor (2025) Pretty much the whole gang's back from the 2018 comedy/mystery, including director Paul Feig and writer Jessica Sharzer as well as our leads Stephanie (Anna Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Blake Lively). Emily, last seen in prison for a double murder, is out of prison on appeal while Stephanie needs a boost in her book sales. She's wrangled into becoming Emily's maid of honor and the two are off to a destination wedding in Capri—even if Stephanie's still a little worried that her "friend" is going to try to murder her again. This one's got a bigger body count than the original, paying homage to bloody gialli filmmaking while the plot turns on Emily's marrying into the mob, but the real pleasure here remain the sexy, funny, surreal chemistry between Kendrick and Lively. You can stream Another Simple Favor here. Saltburn (2023) Writer/director Emerald Fennell followed up her buzzy Oscar-winner Promising Young Woman with the thoroughly scandalous Saltburn, a somehow even darker spin on The Talented Mr. Ripley that sees Barry Keoghan's Oliver Quick doing whatever it takes to ingratiate himself into the endlessly posh world of his Oxford classmate Felix Catton (Jacob Elordi). Making the most of all his skills in manipulation and bathtub cleaning, the scholarship student weasels his way onto the titular estate, and finds that the family is desperately gullible, but rich enough that they still hold all the cards. No matter: Oliver has a plan. Opinions are mixed on whether this is all smart satire or lurid trash, but it's pretty entertaining either way. You can stream Saltburn here. One Night in Miami... (2020) Actress Regina King had a fair bit of experience directing television before taking on this, her first feature directorial project, and it’s an undeniably impressive debut. From a 2013 play by Kemp Powers (who also wrote the screenplay), the film offers a speculative look at a real-life meeting of four of the twentieth century’s most prominent figures at the Hampton House Motel in Florida in 1964. Kingsley Ben-Adir, Eli Goree, Aldis Hodge, and Leslie Odom Jr. star as Malcom X, Muhammad Ali (Cassius Clay at the time), Jim Brown, and Sam Cooke as the four debate and discuss their own roles in the Black power and Civil Rights movements, while also hashing out their own demons and the demands of their lives as role models. Its origins as a play are clear, but the powerhouse performances, and King’s confident direction, bring tension and power to the story. You can stream One Night in Miami... here. Red, White, and Royal Blue (2023) Queer people deserve dorky rom-coms as much as anybody else, and Red, White, and Royal Blue (from the Casey McQuiston bestseller) more than fits the bill. Taylor Zakhar Perez plays Alex Claremont-Diaz, son of the U.S. President (Uma Thurman) against Nicholas Galitzine’s Prince Henry, spare heir to the British throne. A public spat between the two sets off an international incident which, naturally, leads to a slow-burn romance and a couple of mildly spicy sex scenes. You can stream Red, White, and Royal Blue here. Superboys of Malegaon (2024) A thoroughly charming coming-of-age drama, Superboys of Malegaon was inspired by a 2008 documentary about the city of Malegaon in Maharashtra, India. there's not a lot of money in Malegaon, but there is a love of film, and a thriving local arts scene that sees residents producing spoofs of popular Bollywood films. This drama, based loosely on stories from the documentary, follows a group of friends who make a very successful film in 1997, only to find that their accomplishment drives a wedge between them over the years. There's a lot of heart here, and a real love of movies and moviemaking, without the film ever becoming cloying. You can stream Superboys of Malegaon here. Catherine Called Birdy (2022) Bella Ramsey (Game of Thrones and, of course, The Last of Us) stars in this adaptation of the much-loved novel from Karen Cushman, and they offer up a pretty delightful performance. 14-year-old Catherine lives in 13th-century Lincolnshire, England, and, though she's the daughter of a lord, it's still not the best time to be a young girl—even, or especially, one as spry and independent as Catherine (who prefers that you call her Birdy). She's just as soon not be put on the marriage market, thank you very much, and thus concocts various schemes in order to dodge her potential fate as a commodity (rags soaked in menstrual blood get stuffed under floorboards, and salves made of shit become an unsurprisingly effective way of keeping unwanted suitors away). Director Lena Dunham and company strike an impressive balance of tones here: The stakes for Birdy are very real, but there's still plenty of joy in the coming-of-age story. You can stream Catherine Called Birdy here. Frida (2024) Not to be confused with the Salma Hayek drama from way back in 2002, this one's a clever and inventive documentary (from debut director Carla Gutierrez) that explores the real life of the iconic Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. The novelty here, aside from new animations of Kahlo's paintings, is in the film's format: Using existing writing and interviews, Gutierrez and company tell Frida's story from her own, first-person perspective, as though she's narrating her own, always fascinating, life story. What's more, the film uses some rarely seen stills and camera footage to flesh out the narrative—some recently restored film of Frida at her Blue House, with one-time lover Leon Trotsky no less, is particularly mind-blowing. You can stream Frida here. In My Mother's Skin (2023) Caring for an aging parent is tough under the best of circumstances, and these circumstances are far from ideal. It's 1945 in the Philippines, and Japanese soldiers are terrorizing the locals as the war winds down, while a local strongman is determined to strip a once-prominent family of the wealth he thinks they've secreted away. Desperate for food, the two children of that family wander into the forest to forage and instead happen upon what seems like a helpful fairy, offering food and a cure for their dying mom, Ligaya (Beauty Gonzalez). The cure, though, involves "saving" Ligaya by turning her into a vampiric Aswang of Filipino legend. This grim, bloody supernatural horror is a bit under the radar, but worth a look for fans with the stomach for it. You can stream In My Mother's Skin here. A Million Miles Away (2023) Michael Peña plays real-life Mexican-American astronaut José M. Hernández in this inspiring biopic. If "inspiring" sounds like damning with faint praise, that's entirely fair—the movie is based on Hernández’s own memoir, and plays it fairly safe in any number of ways. Still—it's a stylishly directed and well-acted movie, with Peña, Sarayu Blue, Garret Dillahunt, and Rose Salazar all putting in great performances to tell the story of a kid who traveled from Michoacán, Mexico, to California in the 1960s so that he and his family could work in the fields, who went on to become and engineer and an International Space Station mission specialist. For quality family entertainment, you could do a whole lot worse. You can stream A Million Miles Away here. Peterloo (2018) The great Mike Leigh (Secrets & Lies, Topsy-Turvy, Vera Drake) wrote and directed this political historical drama about the Peterloo Massacre, a peaceful gathering in Manchester to demand voting rights that was met with overwhelming force by government forces, leaving 18 dead and hundreds wounded. The film is talky, no question, at least until the violence erupts, but Leigh effectively dramatizes the questions at its core, reminding us of the modern-day relevance of the story in ways both subtle and overt. You can stream Peterloo here. The Big Sick (2017) This was the moment that Kumail Nanjani made clear he had talents other than comedy, even if his subsequent graduation to Marvel movies isn’t even remotely an improvement over something like The Big Sick, which he co-wrote with Emily V. Gordon. The film is based on their relationship and follows a Pakistani-American stand-up comedian and a white psychology student whose very new relationship is complicated when Emily becomes unexpectedly ill. It’s smart and funny, avoiding schmaltz in favor of a healthy cynicism and sense of humor, even as the film is frequently heartbreaking. You can stream The Big Sick here. The Vast of Night (2019) Director Andrew Patterson made a wildly confident debut with this film that takes us back to the 1950s, to a small town in New Mexico on the night of the big basketball game. A young local disc jockey, Everett (Jake Horowitz) and his best friend, local switchboard operator Fay (Sierra McCormick) are caught up in a series of bizarre events that begin when Everett’s show is interrupted by a strange signal. The premise involves any number of UFO-movie cliches, but none of that is really the point: The film has a phenomenal visual flair, and makes the typical alien invasion stakes feel deeply personal for this small town. You can stream The Vast of Night here. Judy Blume Forever (2023) The documentary covers Judy Blume’s life, and a half-century career that’s included such triumphs as Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret (1970), Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing (1972), and Blubber (1974), to name a few. If that were all it were, it would be worth it, and it’s a joy to hear insights from Blume herself. The timing couldn’t be better, though, given Blume’s hard-earned reputation for covering subjects once (and often still) not considered fit for young adult audiences: menstruation and puberty, divorce, molestation, and what we’d now call body dysmorphia. Given the current culture of hostility toward libraries, Blume’s trajectory isn’t merely fascinating—it’s essential. You can stream Judy Blume Forever here. Lucy and Desi (2022) Released in the wake of Aaron Sorkin’s Desilu drama (see below), Amy Poehler’s documentary takes an intimate look at one of Hollywood’s great power couples, with a focus on their fiery personal lives. Though it seems as though there wouldn’t be much left to be said about Lucy and Desi, Poehler makes extensive use of never-released recordings, with the full cooperation of the estate. That kind of family seal of approval can be a mixed blessing, but nothing here feels safe or watered-down. It’s an insider look at the events and emotions going on behind the scenes while the two were crafting TV’s most popular show and running the production powerhouse Desilu. You can stream Lucy and Desi here. Being the Ricardos (2021) Stepping back for the Oscar-nominated Aaron Sorkin docudrama, the focus here is on the critical period early in the run of of I Love Lucy, circa 1953, when Ball was under investigation for potential communist ties. It feels like a play in many ways, but the two leads are great: Javier Bardem captures Desi’s business acumen and undeniable charisma, making clear both the positive and negative impacts that charm had on his personal life. Nicole Kidman doesn’t do a straight-up Lucy impression, and the movie is the better for it; while she doesn’t necessarily capture that distinctive comic styling, she’s impeccable as the more serious, mature, behind-the-scenes Lucy. You can stream Being the Ricardos here. Get Duked! (2019) Probably my personal favorite of the films on this list, this dark British comedy finds a group of slacker students dropped off in the Scottish highlands in pursuit of the Duke of Edinburgh Award (a real thing), requiring them to navigate the landscape with no more than a paper map. The teens are soon pursued by hunters (Eddie Izzard’s involved) who’ve come to appreciate the opportunity to cull the louder, more ungrateful kids. Utterly ill-prepared for nature, much less for fleeing from serial killers, the kids face complications that pile up in increasingly, and genuinely, gasp-worthy ways. With its mix of class commentary and wild sense of humor, it’s like a stoner Triangle of Sadness, but at a much more reasonable length. You can stream Get Duked! here. The Voyeurs (2021) I'm not going to make the case that Voyeurs is a great movie, or even that it's some kind of misunderstood cult gem. Nope. It's a fairly silly erotic thriller, but no less entertaining for it. Sydney Sweeney plays Pippa (just "Pippa"), who lives with her boyfriend Thomas (Justice Smith) in an apartment that looks across to another building inhabited by a sexy couple with a wild sex life. At first the voyeurism is a turn-on, but then, Rear Window-style, things get freaky in a less-hot way. The twists and turns that follow are as juicy as they are ridiculous, but if you can turn off your higher-order thinking, it's a lot of horny fun. You can stream The Voyeurs here. The Tomorrow War (2021) Solidly entertaining, if somewhat forgettable, The Tomorrow War is a reasonable choice when you’re looking for sci-fi action that doesn’t require a ton of brainpower. The movies’ third- or fourth-favorite Chris (Pratt) plays a biology teacher/former Green Beret who finds himself drafted in 2022 to fight a war against aliens in 2048. Pratt is fine, but Sam Richardson steals the movie as a nerdy scientist and fellow draftee, blending a comic relief role with real emotion. With a $200 million budget, this has been one of the most expensive of the COVID-era movies to debut on streaming, and a sequel (in the works since the original's release, is still on the way. You can stream The Tomorrow War here. Uncle Frank (2020) Alan Ball (Six Feet Under, True Blood) directs this 1970s period piece starring Paul Bettany as a closeted gay man roadtripping with his 18-year-old niece (Sophia Lillis), and surprised when his partner of a decade, Wally, joins them on the road (Peter Macdissi). The resulting complications set up some poignant drama, but the movie doesn’t lack a sense of humor either; it’s as much about broader family dynamics as it is about secrets and the closet. The three primary cast members are all pretty fantastic, and it’s nice to be reminded that Bettany is more than just Marvel’s Vision. You can stream Uncle Frank here. Master (2022) The phenomenal Regina Hall stars in this masterful psychological thriller as Gail Bishop, the first Black master of Ancaster, a fictional elite New England university. The school is haunted by the 1965 suicide of its first Black undergraduate, and strange doings are soon afoot involving Bishop and new freshman Jasmine Moore (Zoe Renee), a Black student working hard to fit in with the school’s clique of rich white girls. The narrative shifts in unpredictable ways, leaving us as off-balance as the lead characters. The screenplay’s abundant ideas don’t always get the development that they deserve, but the finished product is nevertheless appropriately haunting. You can stream Master here. Sound of Metal (2019) A movie about a heavy metal drummer slowly losing his hearing could easily have been excessively on the nose, but Sound of Thunder avoids the obvious traps to finds the heart and fury in the lead character of Ruben Stone, played by Riz Ahmed. He’s joined by Paul Raci playing Joe, an alcoholic war veteran who runs a shelter for deaf addicts; both actors received well-earned Oscar nominations for their work, and the film was nominated for Best Picture. The film is perfectly content to challenge assumptions about deafness, but the understated character piece never feels like a lecture. You can stream Sound of Metal here. Time (2020) This documentary takes a look at the American prison-industrial complex from a deeply personal vantage point. It’s the story of Sibil Fox Richardson, fighting for the release of her husband, Rob, who is serving a six-decade prison sentence in Louisiana for his role in an armed robbery. Director Garrett Bradley at first planned a short film on the story of the family, but after getting access to hours and hours of home video of Rob in his pre-incarceration life, realized she had something much deeper on her hands. I’m not sure that there’s a more concise or persuasive argument for the dehumanizing nature of our incarceration system, nor is it easy to come away from the film still thinking of prisoners as something other than humans worthy of your compassion. You can stream Time here. You Were Never Really Here (2017) It sounds like a spin on John Wick: Joaquin Phoenix plays a mercenary named Joe, hired by a politician to retrieve his kidnapped daughter, and to eliminate the criminal network that took her. Writer/director Lynne Ramsey (Ratcatcher, Morvern Callar, We Need to Talk About Kevin), though, has something deeper and darker in mind, and the resulting film feels less like an action thriller then it does an impossibly tense spin on Taxi Driver, with Phoenix and Ekaterina Samsonov as the young girl involved in a story about facing lifelong trauma rather than than solving problems with bullets. You can stream You Were Never Really Here here. I Am: Celine Dion (2024) Across decades, Celine Dion has never been a controversial figure in the slightest, but with that comes the fact that it's been hard to feel like we know the real person behind the stage presence. In that regard, this documentary feels like a revelation: Dealing in large part with the singer's recent medical problems, it cuts through the veneer to feel intensely raw and personal. One of our most polished modern superstars suddenly feels very much like a human being, and that's a wildly impressive and unexpected feat in a world of celebrity docs that barely scratch the surface. You can stream I Am: Celine Dion here. View the full article

Walmart, known as one of America’s most affordable retail chains, just signaled that President The President’s tariffs are about to disrupt its competitive pricing. Here’s what to know: What did Walmart announce? On an earnings call Thursday discussing the company’s newly released Q1 FY2026 financial results, CEO Doug McMillon spoke about price changes that he says will hit in the coming weeks, as the impact of tariffs builds. “We will do our best to keep our prices as low as possible,” he said on the call. “But given the magnitude of the tariffs, even at the reduced levels announced this week, we aren’t able to absorb all the pressure given the reality of narrow retail margins.” Which items sold at Walmart will be the most impacted? McMillon said that tariff-related pressure has been building over the last two months, noting that, so far, toys and electronics have been most impacted. Many companies whose products are sold at Walmart have already raised prices to absorb the impact of tariffs, or signaled that they will soon, such as toy brand Mattel. Last week, the brand said it would raise prices and move production from China to countries with lower tariffs. But on Thursday, McMillon acknowledged that pressure has been building on food prices, too. “We want to keep our food and consumables prices as low as we can,” he added, noting that many Americans have felt financially strained when it comes to buying groceries in recent years. He also noted that the retailer may feel more tariff-related-pressure on some food items more than others, such as bananas, avocados, coffee, and more, coming out of countries like Costa Rica, Peru, and Colombia. “We’ll do our best to control what we can control in order to keep food prices as low as possible,” he said. “An example would be controlling the amount of fresh food waste.” What did Walmart’s earnings report say? Walmart’s Q1 report showed the company’s revenue was up 2.5%, which slightly missed Wall Street’s projections. Walmart said in Thursday’s press release that it expects second-quarter net sales to increase by 3.5% to 4.5% in constant currency. Walmart stock (NYSE: WMT) was down more than 3% in early trading on Thursday. Will other retailers raise prices, too? Given that Walmart is a giant brand that offers so many products, experts say the company is better equipped than most to absorb some tariff-related pressure. But if the chain is being forced to raise prices, that’s a very bad sign for consumers. “If Walmart’s coming out—with its scale and its buying power and its focus—and saying prices are going to rise, everyone else is going to have to follow suit,” said Neil Saunders, managing director at retail consultancy GlobalData, per NBC. “Walmart is firing the starting gun on a period of price increases.” View the full article

The real culprits for the rise of the right are the complacent parties who have ruled since the 1989 revolutionView the full article

On Thursday morning, Pittsburgh-based Dick’s Sporting Goods announced its plans to acquire footwear and apparel retailer Foot Locker. The two companies have entered into a merger agreement, where Dick’s Sporting Goods will buy Foot Locker for $2.4 billion. Here’s what to know about the deal. How will the deal work? Dick’s will finance the merger using a combination of cash-on-hand and new debt. As part of the agreement, Dick’s will acquire Foot Locker’s vast portfolio of brands, including Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, Champs Sports, and WSS. Foot Locker currently operates over 2,000 retail stores across the globe. Dick’s will operate Foot Locker as a standalone business within its portfolio. How have the companies’ stock prices reacted to the news? Dick’s Sporting Goods shares (NYSE: DKS) were down more than 13% in early-morning trading on Thursday. By contrast, Foot Locker stock (NYSE: FL) jumped more than 82%. In a joint press release, leaders from both companies shared optimism for the planned merger. Dick’s CEO Lauren Hobart said, “We look forward to welcoming Foot Locker’s talented team and building upon their expertise and passion for their business.” Hobart continued, “Sports and sports culture continue to be incredibly powerful, and with this acquisition, we’ll create a new global platform that serves those ever evolving needs through iconic concepts consumers know and love.” Foot Locker CEO Mary Dillon said, “By joining forces with DICK’S, Foot Locker will be even better positioned to expand sneaker culture, elevate the omnichannel experience for our customers and brand partners, and enhance our position in the industry.” Tariff pain and broader economic uncertainty The news comes as retailers brace for uncertainty due to President The President’s tariffs on foreign goods. The vast majority of footwear sold in the U.S. is imported from other countries. Earlier this week, the United States and China reached a trade-war truce. Both countries will temporarily reduce tariff rates for 90 days. However, there is still uncertainty among U.S. retailers due to The President’s erratic and ever-changing trade policies. The merger agreement was unanimously approved by the boards of directors of Dick’s and Foot Locker. As part of the agreement, Foot Locker investors can elect to receive $24 in cash or 0.1168 shares of Dick’s stock. View the full article

The Federal Reserve chair said there is 'room for improvement' in how the central bank conveys economic uncertainties to markets and the broader public. 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. If you're looking to build out your home security system without spending a ton at once, right now you can pick up a 2K Arlo indoor camera for less than $30—63% off the original $79.99 price. This camera is ideal if you’re looking for easy installation, smart home-enabled commands, and basic indoor surveillance. It features 2K video quality with sharp 1080p resolution and exceptional color quality, according to this PCMag review. It’s also Arlo’s only wired model, providing a continuous power supply that eliminates the need to worry about battery life. Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation) $29.99 at Amazon $79.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal Get Deal $29.99 at Amazon $79.99 Save $50.00 Offering motion sensing and smart integrations, the second generation Arlo Essential Indoor Camera provides a solid blend of security and affordability, making it a good choice starter cam or an excellent addition to an existing surveillance system. Additional features include remote siren activation, night vision in low-light conditions, a 130-degree field of view and two-way audio, which lets you communicate with household members (including four-legged ones) from afar. Reviews indicate people have put the camera to use as a baby monitor, and a pet cam as well as a general home security device, and they appreciate its audio and video quality, as well as its responsive motion detection. It offers automated privacy shield via the Arlo Secure App, which gives you control over when the camera will and won't be recording. That said, some reviewers have experienced wifi connectivity issues, and some features, like advanced detection and cloud storage, require a paid monthly Arlo Secure plan (starting at $8/month). Smart home integration is also mixed: It supports Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant, but not Apple HomeKit. Overall, this is Arlo’s most budget-friendly camera, particularly at the current discount. If you’re in the market for a high-quality starter camera or want to bolster your existing setup, tit's a good choice. However, if you’re seeking an option with more to offer in terms of features and storage, you may want to consider the TP-Link Tapo Indoor/Outdoor Home Security Wi-Fi Camera C120 instead. View the full article

On Wednesday, the Environmental Protection Agency announced plans to weaken limits on some harmful “forever chemicals” in drinking water roughly a year after the Biden administration finalized the first-ever national standards. The Biden administration said last year the rules could reduce PFAS exposure for millions of people. It was part of a broader push by officials then to address drinking water quality by writing rules to require the removal of toxic lead pipes and, after years of activist concern, address the threat of forever chemicals. President Donald The President has sought fewer environmental rules and more oil and gas development. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin has carried out that agenda by announcing massive regulatory rollbacks. Now, we know the EPA plans to rescind limits for certain PFAS and lengthen deadlines for two of the most common types. Here are some of the essential things to know about PFAS chemicals and what the EPA decided to do: Please explain what PFAS are to me PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of chemicals that have been around for decades and have now spread into the nation’s air, water and soil. They were manufactured by companies such as 3M, Chemours and others because they were incredibly useful. They helped eggs slide across nonstick frying pans, ensured that firefighting foam suffocates flames and helped clothes withstand the rain and keep people dry. The chemicals resist breaking down, however, which means they stay around in the environment. And why are they bad for humans? Environmental activists say that PFAS manufacturers knew about the health harms of PFAS long before they were made public. The same attributes that make the chemicals so valuable—resistance to breakdown—make them hazardous to people. PFAS accumulates in the body, which is why the Biden administration set limits for two common types, often called PFOA and PFOS, at 4 parts per trillion that are phased out of manufacturing but still present in the environment. There is a wide range of health harms now associated with exposure to certain PFAS. Cases of kidney disease, low-birth weight and high cholesterol in addition to certain cancers can be prevented by removing PFAS from water, according to the EPA. The guidance on PFOA and PFOS has changed dramatically in recent years as scientific understanding has advanced. The EPA in 2016, for example, said the combined amount of the two substances should not exceed 70 parts per trillion. The Biden administration later said no amount is safe. There is nuance in what the EPA did The EPA plans to scrap limits on three types of PFAS, some of which are less well known. They include GenX substances commonly found in North Carolina as well as substances called PFHxS and PFNA. There is also a limit on a mixture of PFAS, which the agency is also planning to rescind. It appears few utilities will be impacted by the withdrawal of limits for these types of PFAS. So far, sampling has found nearly 12% of U.S. water utilities are above the Biden administration’s limits. But most utilities face problems with PFOA or PFOS. For the two commonly found types, PFOA and PFOS, the EPA will keep the current limits in place but give utilities two more years—until 2031—to meet them. Announcement is met with mixed reaction Some environmental groups argue that the EPA can’t legally weaken the regulations. The Safe Water Drinking Act gives the EPA authority to limit water contaminants, and it includes a provision meant to prevent new rules from being looser than previous ones. “The law is very clear that the EPA can’t repeal or weaken the drinking water standard,” said Erik Olson, a senior strategist at the nonprofit Natural Resources Defense Council. Environmental activists have generally slammed the EPA for not keeping the Biden-era rules in place, saying it will worsen public health. Industry had mixed reactions. The American Chemistry Council questioned the Biden administration’s underlying science that supported the tight rules and said the The President administration had considered the concerns about cost and the underlying science. “However, EPA’s actions only partially address this issue, and more is needed to prevent significant impacts on local communities and other unintended consequences,” the industry group said. Leaders of two major utility industry groups, the American Water Works Association and Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies, said they supported the EPA’s decision to rescind a novel approach to limit a mix of chemicals. But they also said the changes do not substantially reduce the cost of the PFAS rule. Some utilities wanted a higher limit on PFOA and PFOS, according to Mark White, drinking water leader at the engineering firm CDM Smith. They did, however, get an extension. “This gives water pros more time to deal with the ones we know are bad, and we are going to need more time. Some utilities are just finding out now where they stand,” said Mike McGill, president of WaterPIO, a water industry communications firm. The Associated Press receives support from the Walton Family Foundation for coverage of water and environmental policy. The AP is solely responsible for all content. For all of AP’s environmental coverage, visit https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment —Michael Phillis, Associated Press View the full article

Talks between Abu Dhabi royal’s holding company and ‘King of Mayfair’ could lead to a deal worth over £1bnView the full article

Better than expected figures could still leave chancellor needing to raise taxes or cut spending in autumn, analysts sayView the full article

Key Takeaways Growing Demand: The medical transportation industry is expanding due to an aging population and increased healthcare needs, presenting a significant business opportunity. Service Types: Offering various services—such as ambulance transport, non-emergency medical transportation, and specialty transport—allows business owners to cater to diverse patient needs and stand out in the market. Essential Steps: Conduct thorough market research, develop a solid business plan, and obtain necessary licenses and permits to lay a strong foundation for your business. Operational Setup: Choose appropriate vehicles, hire qualified staff, and implement safety protocols to ensure high-quality service and operational efficiency in your medical transportation business. Effective Marketing: Utilize online marketing strategies and build relationships with healthcare providers to enhance visibility and attract new customers. Financial Planning: Accurately estimate startup costs and explore various funding options, such as loans or grants, to secure the necessary capital for your business venture. Starting a medical transportation business can be a rewarding venture that meets a vital need in your community. With an aging population and increasing healthcare demands, the demand for reliable medical transport services is on the rise. You have the opportunity to make a significant impact by ensuring patients reach their appointments safely and on time. Navigating the logistics of this industry might seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and planning, you can establish a successful operation. From understanding the regulatory requirements to building a solid business plan, every step you take will help you create a service that not only generates profit but also enhances the quality of life for those you serve. Let’s dive into the essential steps to get your medical transportation business off the ground. Understanding The Medical Transportation Industry Understanding the medical transportation industry is crucial for entrepreneurs looking to start a successful business in this field. This sector not only meets the growing needs of an aging population but also plays a vital role in the overall healthcare system. Importance of Medical Transportation Medical transportation ensures patients reach their appointments safely and on time. This service is essential for individuals with mobility challenges, those requiring regular medical treatments, and transport to hospitals or rehabilitation centers. It contributes to better health outcomes, enhances patient satisfaction, and supports healthcare providers in delivering effective care. Entrepreneurs entering this market can make a meaningful impact by providing reliable transportation solutions. Types of Medical Transportation Services Different types of medical transportation services cater to various patient needs. Ambulance Services: Emergency transport for critical patients, equipped with medical staff and life support equipment. Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): Designed for patients who require transportation to medical appointments but do not require emergency care, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Ambulatory Transportation: Services that cater to patients who can walk but need assistance getting to and from healthcare facilities. Long-Distance Transportation: Necessary for patients traveling significant distances for specialized medical care, often involving coordination with other transport services. Specialty Transport: Tailored services for specific needs such as bariatric or pediatric patients, requiring specialized equipment or trained personnel. Evaluating the types of services you want to offer can refine your business model and foster deeper connections with your target audience. Understanding these services helps align your startup’s offerings with market demands, ultimately demonstrating your commitment to quality patient care and ensuring your venture’s success. Steps To Start A Medical Transportation Business Starting a medical transportation business requires careful planning and execution. Follow these essential steps to launch your venture successfully. Conduct Market Research Conduct market research to understand the demand for medical transportation services in your area. Analyze local demographics, including the aging population, and examine healthcare facilities to identify potential client bases. Research your competitors and their offerings to determine your unique selling proposition, enabling you to differentiate your services. Investigate pricing structures and reimbursement rates from insurance providers and government programs, including Medicare and Medicaid. Discover unmet needs, such as specialized transport for dialysis patients or wheelchair accessibility, to cater to niche markets and enhance your business model. Develop A Business Plan Develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your vision and operational goals. The plan should include detailed strategies for marketing, financial projections, and competitive analysis. Clearly identify your target audience, focusing on their specific needs and preferences. Incorporate your growth strategy, customer acquisition plans, and potential partnerships. A solid business plan not only serves as a roadmap for your startup but also leads to easier access to funding options like loans or angel investors, ensuring your venture’s long-term viability. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits Obtain the necessary licenses and permits to operate legally within your state. Research the required legal structure for your business, whether it’s an LLC, sole proprietorship, or corporation. Ensure compliance with local regulations before launching your services. Seek legal advice to understand tax implications and licensing requirements specific to the medical transportation industry. By securing the appropriate permits, you position your business for credibility and operational success in the healthcare sector. Setting Up Your Operations Setting up your operations involves several critical steps, ensuring a solid foundation for your medical transportation business. Choosing the Right Vehicles Choosing the right vehicles directly affects your service quality and operational efficiency. Select vehicles that meet the specific needs of your target audience, whether they require basic transport or specialized equipment. For instance, ambulatory vehicles suffice for patients who can walk, whereas wheelchair-accessible vans or stretcher-equipped vehicles cater to those needing assistance. Consider fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and comfort when making your choice. Properly equipped vehicles enhance patient safety and satisfaction. Hiring Qualified Staff Hiring qualified staff is essential for delivering quality service. Recruit drivers with experience in medical transportation, ensuring they possess the appropriate licenses and certifications. Prioritize candidates with strong communication skills and a compassionate attitude, as they interact directly with patients. Implement background checks to enhance safety and reliability. Training programs focused on customer service, medical protocols, and emergency procedures prepare your staff for the unique challenges of this industry. Implementing Safety Protocols Implementing safety protocols safeguards both patients and employees. Develop a set of standard operating procedures (SOPs) detailing vehicle maintenance, emergency response, and infection control practices. Regularly train your team on these protocols to maintain a high safety standard. Ensure proper insurance coverage protects against accidents and liabilities. Compliance with local regulations and frequent audits of safety measures reinforce your commitment to patient care and operational excellence. Marketing Your Medical Transportation Business Effective marketing strategies play a crucial role in establishing and growing your medical transportation business. Focusing on how to reach your target audience increases customer acquisition and builds brand awareness. Identifying Your Target Market Understanding your target audience is essential for marketing success. Consider demographics, including age, mobility issues, and frequency of medical appointments. Analyze the needs of specific groups, such as seniors or patients requiring regular treatment. Tailoring your services to meet these needs strengthens your business model and enhances customer satisfaction. Utilizing Online Marketing Strategies Leveraging online marketing strategies enhances your business visibility. Create a professional website that showcases your services, provides contact information, and includes customer testimonials. Implement SEO tactics to ensure your site ranks well on search engines. Utilize social media platforms for direct engagement with potential customers. Run targeted email marketing campaigns to keep your audience informed about services, special offers, and educational content related to medical transportation. Building Relationships with Healthcare Providers Fostering strong relationships with healthcare providers increases referral opportunities. Reach out to hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and social service agencies to discuss collaboration. Offer to provide transportation services for patients needing assistance. Attend networking events to meet potential partners and gain insights into industry needs. Pursue mentorship from experienced professionals in the healthcare and transportation sectors for additional guidance. Financial Considerations Starting a medical transportation business involves several financial considerations that require careful planning. Understanding these financial aspects will help you position your venture for success. Estimating Startup Costs Estimating startup costs is crucial for your business plan. Key areas to address include: Vehicles: Reliable, accessible vans or minibuses cost between $16,000 and $83,000 each. Vehicles must comply with ADA regulations and include features like ramps and securements. Licensing and Permits: Budget approximately $1,000 to $3,000 on necessary licenses and permits, depending on your location. Legal advice about local regulations ensures compliance. Insurance: Comprehensive insurance coverage for your fleet and business typically ranges from $5,000 to $10,000 annually. This protects your venture against potential liabilities. Equipment: Additional equipment, like wheelchairs and oxygen tanks, adds to your initial costs. Factor these expenses when developing your financial projections. Funding Options for Your Business Funding your medical transportation business can come from various sources. Explore these options: Loans: Traditional lenders often provide loans for small businesses. Research local banks or credit unions that understand your industry. Angel Investors: Seek out investors looking for profitable ventures in the healthcare sector. A solid pitch highlighting your business model and growth strategy can attract interest. Business Grants: Investigate available grants specific to transportation or healthcare initiatives. These funds can provide financial support without repayment obligations. Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe facilitate public funding. Utilize your network and online presence to promote your business idea and gather contributions. Choosing the right funding option aligns with your business goals and growth strategy. Keeping accurate financial records and managing cash flow is essential for long-term success. Conclusion Starting a medical transportation business can be a fulfilling journey that not only meets a vital need in your community but also offers you the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives. By taking the time to understand the industry and its requirements you position yourself for success. Focus on building a strong foundation through effective planning and operational strategies. Emphasizing quality service and safety will set you apart from the competition. As you navigate this rewarding venture remember that establishing relationships within the healthcare sector can significantly enhance your growth potential. With dedication and a clear vision you can create a thriving business that supports patients and contributes positively to the healthcare landscape. Frequently Asked Questions What is a medical transportation business? A medical transportation business provides transport services for patients, ensuring they reach medical appointments or emergencies safely. It caters to various needs, including ambulatory transport, non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), and long-distance care. Why is medical transportation important? Medical transportation is crucial for an aging population and increasing healthcare demands. It allows patients to reach appointments safely, which contributes to timely healthcare and better outcomes. What licenses do I need to start a medical transportation business? Licensing requirements vary by state, but typically you will need a business license, specific transportation permits, and possibly a medical transportation certificate. It’s essential to check local regulations for compliance. How do I conduct market research for this business? To conduct market research, gather data on local demographics, analyze competitors, and assess demand for medical transportation services in your area. Surveys and community feedback can also provide valuable insights. What are the startup costs for a medical transportation business? Startup costs can range widely, typically from $16,000 to $83,000 for vehicles, plus an additional $1,000 to $3,000 for licenses and permits. Other expenses may include insurance and equipment costs. How can I market my medical transportation service? Effective marketing strategies include building a professional website, utilizing SEO tactics, engaging on social media, and networking with healthcare providers. Collaborating with hospitals can also increase referral opportunities. What types of services should I offer? Consider offering a variety of services such as emergency medical transport, non-emergency rides, long-distance travel, and specialty transport for specific patient needs. Tailoring your services to the community’s demands is key. How do I ensure safety in my medical transportation business? Implement safety protocols such as regular vehicle maintenance, training for staff, and emergency response procedures. These practices help ensure the safety of both patients and employees, maintaining compliance with regulations. What funding options are available for startup costs? Funding options include loans, angel investors, crowdfunding, and business grants. Choose a funding source that aligns with your business model and financial needs to ensure a stable launch. What are the key factors for success in this industry? Success factors include understanding regulatory requirements, developing a thorough business plan, choosing the right vehicles, hiring and training qualified staff, and effectively marketing your services to the target audience. Image Via Envato This article, "Essential Guide on How to Start a Medical Transportation Business Successfully" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Growing Demand: The medical transportation industry is expanding due to an aging population and increased healthcare needs, presenting a significant business opportunity. Service Types: Offering various services—such as ambulance transport, non-emergency medical transportation, and specialty transport—allows business owners to cater to diverse patient needs and stand out in the market. Essential Steps: Conduct thorough market research, develop a solid business plan, and obtain necessary licenses and permits to lay a strong foundation for your business. Operational Setup: Choose appropriate vehicles, hire qualified staff, and implement safety protocols to ensure high-quality service and operational efficiency in your medical transportation business. Effective Marketing: Utilize online marketing strategies and build relationships with healthcare providers to enhance visibility and attract new customers. Financial Planning: Accurately estimate startup costs and explore various funding options, such as loans or grants, to secure the necessary capital for your business venture. Starting a medical transportation business can be a rewarding venture that meets a vital need in your community. With an aging population and increasing healthcare demands, the demand for reliable medical transport services is on the rise. You have the opportunity to make a significant impact by ensuring patients reach their appointments safely and on time. Navigating the logistics of this industry might seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and planning, you can establish a successful operation. From understanding the regulatory requirements to building a solid business plan, every step you take will help you create a service that not only generates profit but also enhances the quality of life for those you serve. Let’s dive into the essential steps to get your medical transportation business off the ground. Understanding The Medical Transportation Industry Understanding the medical transportation industry is crucial for entrepreneurs looking to start a successful business in this field. This sector not only meets the growing needs of an aging population but also plays a vital role in the overall healthcare system. Importance of Medical Transportation Medical transportation ensures patients reach their appointments safely and on time. This service is essential for individuals with mobility challenges, those requiring regular medical treatments, and transport to hospitals or rehabilitation centers. It contributes to better health outcomes, enhances patient satisfaction, and supports healthcare providers in delivering effective care. Entrepreneurs entering this market can make a meaningful impact by providing reliable transportation solutions. Types of Medical Transportation Services Different types of medical transportation services cater to various patient needs. Ambulance Services: Emergency transport for critical patients, equipped with medical staff and life support equipment. Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): Designed for patients who require transportation to medical appointments but do not require emergency care, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Ambulatory Transportation: Services that cater to patients who can walk but need assistance getting to and from healthcare facilities. Long-Distance Transportation: Necessary for patients traveling significant distances for specialized medical care, often involving coordination with other transport services. Specialty Transport: Tailored services for specific needs such as bariatric or pediatric patients, requiring specialized equipment or trained personnel. Evaluating the types of services you want to offer can refine your business model and foster deeper connections with your target audience. Understanding these services helps align your startup’s offerings with market demands, ultimately demonstrating your commitment to quality patient care and ensuring your venture’s success. Steps To Start A Medical Transportation Business Starting a medical transportation business requires careful planning and execution. Follow these essential steps to launch your venture successfully. Conduct Market Research Conduct market research to understand the demand for medical transportation services in your area. Analyze local demographics, including the aging population, and examine healthcare facilities to identify potential client bases. Research your competitors and their offerings to determine your unique selling proposition, enabling you to differentiate your services. Investigate pricing structures and reimbursement rates from insurance providers and government programs, including Medicare and Medicaid. Discover unmet needs, such as specialized transport for dialysis patients or wheelchair accessibility, to cater to niche markets and enhance your business model. Develop A Business Plan Develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your vision and operational goals. The plan should include detailed strategies for marketing, financial projections, and competitive analysis. Clearly identify your target audience, focusing on their specific needs and preferences. Incorporate your growth strategy, customer acquisition plans, and potential partnerships. A solid business plan not only serves as a roadmap for your startup but also leads to easier access to funding options like loans or angel investors, ensuring your venture’s long-term viability. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits Obtain the necessary licenses and permits to operate legally within your state. Research the required legal structure for your business, whether it’s an LLC, sole proprietorship, or corporation. Ensure compliance with local regulations before launching your services. Seek legal advice to understand tax implications and licensing requirements specific to the medical transportation industry. By securing the appropriate permits, you position your business for credibility and operational success in the healthcare sector. Setting Up Your Operations Setting up your operations involves several critical steps, ensuring a solid foundation for your medical transportation business. Choosing the Right Vehicles Choosing the right vehicles directly affects your service quality and operational efficiency. Select vehicles that meet the specific needs of your target audience, whether they require basic transport or specialized equipment. For instance, ambulatory vehicles suffice for patients who can walk, whereas wheelchair-accessible vans or stretcher-equipped vehicles cater to those needing assistance. Consider fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and comfort when making your choice. Properly equipped vehicles enhance patient safety and satisfaction. Hiring Qualified Staff Hiring qualified staff is essential for delivering quality service. Recruit drivers with experience in medical transportation, ensuring they possess the appropriate licenses and certifications. Prioritize candidates with strong communication skills and a compassionate attitude, as they interact directly with patients. Implement background checks to enhance safety and reliability. Training programs focused on customer service, medical protocols, and emergency procedures prepare your staff for the unique challenges of this industry. Implementing Safety Protocols Implementing safety protocols safeguards both patients and employees. Develop a set of standard operating procedures (SOPs) detailing vehicle maintenance, emergency response, and infection control practices. Regularly train your team on these protocols to maintain a high safety standard. Ensure proper insurance coverage protects against accidents and liabilities. Compliance with local regulations and frequent audits of safety measures reinforce your commitment to patient care and operational excellence. Marketing Your Medical Transportation Business Effective marketing strategies play a crucial role in establishing and growing your medical transportation business. Focusing on how to reach your target audience increases customer acquisition and builds brand awareness. Identifying Your Target Market Understanding your target audience is essential for marketing success. Consider demographics, including age, mobility issues, and frequency of medical appointments. Analyze the needs of specific groups, such as seniors or patients requiring regular treatment. Tailoring your services to meet these needs strengthens your business model and enhances customer satisfaction. Utilizing Online Marketing Strategies Leveraging online marketing strategies enhances your business visibility. Create a professional website that showcases your services, provides contact information, and includes customer testimonials. Implement SEO tactics to ensure your site ranks well on search engines. Utilize social media platforms for direct engagement with potential customers. Run targeted email marketing campaigns to keep your audience informed about services, special offers, and educational content related to medical transportation. Building Relationships with Healthcare Providers Fostering strong relationships with healthcare providers increases referral opportunities. Reach out to hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and social service agencies to discuss collaboration. Offer to provide transportation services for patients needing assistance. Attend networking events to meet potential partners and gain insights into industry needs. Pursue mentorship from experienced professionals in the healthcare and transportation sectors for additional guidance. Financial Considerations Starting a medical transportation business involves several financial considerations that require careful planning. Understanding these financial aspects will help you position your venture for success. Estimating Startup Costs Estimating startup costs is crucial for your business plan. Key areas to address include: Vehicles: Reliable, accessible vans or minibuses cost between $16,000 and $83,000 each. Vehicles must comply with ADA regulations and include features like ramps and securements. Licensing and Permits: Budget approximately $1,000 to $3,000 on necessary licenses and permits, depending on your location. Legal advice about local regulations ensures compliance. Insurance: Comprehensive insurance coverage for your fleet and business typically ranges from $5,000 to $10,000 annually. This protects your venture against potential liabilities. Equipment: Additional equipment, like wheelchairs and oxygen tanks, adds to your initial costs. Factor these expenses when developing your financial projections. Funding Options for Your Business Funding your medical transportation business can come from various sources. Explore these options: Loans: Traditional lenders often provide loans for small businesses. Research local banks or credit unions that understand your industry. Angel Investors: Seek out investors looking for profitable ventures in the healthcare sector. A solid pitch highlighting your business model and growth strategy can attract interest. Business Grants: Investigate available grants specific to transportation or healthcare initiatives. These funds can provide financial support without repayment obligations. Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe facilitate public funding. Utilize your network and online presence to promote your business idea and gather contributions. Choosing the right funding option aligns with your business goals and growth strategy. Keeping accurate financial records and managing cash flow is essential for long-term success. Conclusion Starting a medical transportation business can be a fulfilling journey that not only meets a vital need in your community but also offers you the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives. By taking the time to understand the industry and its requirements you position yourself for success. Focus on building a strong foundation through effective planning and operational strategies. Emphasizing quality service and safety will set you apart from the competition. As you navigate this rewarding venture remember that establishing relationships within the healthcare sector can significantly enhance your growth potential. With dedication and a clear vision you can create a thriving business that supports patients and contributes positively to the healthcare landscape. Frequently Asked Questions What is a medical transportation business? A medical transportation business provides transport services for patients, ensuring they reach medical appointments or emergencies safely. It caters to various needs, including ambulatory transport, non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), and long-distance care. Why is medical transportation important? Medical transportation is crucial for an aging population and increasing healthcare demands. It allows patients to reach appointments safely, which contributes to timely healthcare and better outcomes. What licenses do I need to start a medical transportation business? Licensing requirements vary by state, but typically you will need a business license, specific transportation permits, and possibly a medical transportation certificate. It’s essential to check local regulations for compliance. How do I conduct market research for this business? To conduct market research, gather data on local demographics, analyze competitors, and assess demand for medical transportation services in your area. Surveys and community feedback can also provide valuable insights. What are the startup costs for a medical transportation business? Startup costs can range widely, typically from $16,000 to $83,000 for vehicles, plus an additional $1,000 to $3,000 for licenses and permits. Other expenses may include insurance and equipment costs. How can I market my medical transportation service? Effective marketing strategies include building a professional website, utilizing SEO tactics, engaging on social media, and networking with healthcare providers. Collaborating with hospitals can also increase referral opportunities. What types of services should I offer? Consider offering a variety of services such as emergency medical transport, non-emergency rides, long-distance travel, and specialty transport for specific patient needs. Tailoring your services to the community’s demands is key. How do I ensure safety in my medical transportation business? Implement safety protocols such as regular vehicle maintenance, training for staff, and emergency response procedures. These practices help ensure the safety of both patients and employees, maintaining compliance with regulations. What funding options are available for startup costs? Funding options include loans, angel investors, crowdfunding, and business grants. Choose a funding source that aligns with your business model and financial needs to ensure a stable launch. What are the key factors for success in this industry? Success factors include understanding regulatory requirements, developing a thorough business plan, choosing the right vehicles, hiring and training qualified staff, and effectively marketing your services to the target audience. Image Via Envato This article, "Essential Guide on How to Start a Medical Transportation Business Successfully" was first published on Small Business Trends 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. If you’re looking to beef up your home security, the Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus is currently down to $119.99 on Amazon, the lowest price it's hit according to price trackers. Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus $119.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $179.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal Get Deal $119.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $179.99 Save $60.00 This is a hardwired unit, so you’ll need to factor in a bit of installation effort (or call in a professional), but once it’s up and running, it feels like a solid, set-it-and-forget-it kind of system. The image quality holds up OK (sharp enough to recognize faces and details within a few meters) with its 1080p resolution, especially during the day. At night, the two 2,000-lumen floodlights really help it punch above its weight in visibility, illuminating a wide 270-degree area if positioned right. When motion is picked up, you'll immediately receive a phone alert. From there, you can view a live feed, speak to whomever’s at the door, or hit the built-in 105dB siren if things feel sketchy. You can also customize motion detection zones through the app to avoid constant alerts from things like passing cars or neighborhood dogs. The two-way audio is clear enough for short conversations, though there’s reportedly a bit of lag due to wifi or mobile network delays. Alexa users will especially appreciate the integration—it lets you call up live feeds on an Echo Show or get motion alerts through voice announcements. That said, the big thing to know is that while the camera works out of the box, recorded footage is only available if you subscribe to a Ring Home plan. That’s $4.99/month for one device, which gives you 180 days of video history, person alerts, and more. If you plan on expanding to multiple Ring devices, the $9.99 or $19.99/month tiers might be worth it. That’s a recurring cost you’ll want to factor in. If you're the type who only wants live viewing and real-time alerts without saving video, this might not matter. But if you ever need to review a package theft or suspicious activity, you’ll want that cloud history. View the full article

U.S. President Donald The President’s plan to accept a $400 million airplane from Qatar raises a raft of questions about the scope of laws that relate to gifts from foreign governments and are intended to thwart corruption and improper influence, legal experts said. Below is a look at some of the laws and legal precedents: WHAT DOES THE U.S. CONSTITUTION SAY? There are two provisions in the U.S Constitution that place restrictions on the president receiving an emolument, or gift, from foreign governments or from federal or state governments. One provision states that Congress must approve any gift from a “King, Prince, or foreign State” to an elected official in the United States. The other, referred to as the “domestic” emoluments clause, prohibits the president from receiving a gift beyond salary for the job. Congress has expressly approved gifts from foreign governments in the past. In 1877, Congress accepted the Statue of Liberty as a gift from France. The foreign emoluments clause did not bar President Barack Obama in 2009 from receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, which included $1.4 million in cash, without congressional consent. A memo from the Department of Justice’s Office of Legal Counsel determined the prize did not violate the Constitution because the Norwegian Nobel Committee is not a “King, Prince, or foreign State.” Obama donated the money to charity. WHO CAN ENFORCE THE PROVISIONS? That’s unclear, and the Supreme Court has not addressed the question, according to a report by the Congressional Research Service. Legal experts said members of Congress, U.S. states and even potentially some private businesses could try to sue the president if they believe a gift violates the foreign Emoluments Clause, but they face challenges. U.S. courts require plaintiffs to have legal “standing” to bring claims, meaning they must be the proper party to bring the case, which is a threshold issue for any litigation to advance. WHAT HAVE U.S. COURTS SAID ABOUT EMOLUMENTS? Until The President’s first term, there had not been substantial litigation over the clauses, and even the meaning of the term “emolument” is a matter of legal dispute. Democratic members of Congress sued The President in 2017 after his global businesses allegedly received payments from foreign governments, including when Kuwait hosted an event at the The President International Hotel in Washington. That case was dismissed by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, which said the 215 members of Congress lacked standing to sue as an institution because they did not comprise a majority. Republicans controlled both houses of Congress at the time, as they do now. The U.S. Supreme Court declined in October 2020 to review that ruling. Attorneys general for Maryland and the District of Columbia also jointly brought an emoluments cases related to The President’s businesses during his first term. Their case was dismissed by a panel of three judges, appointed by Republican presidents, of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit, also for a lack of standing. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit determined in 2019 that restaurants and hotels in New York and Washington had standing to bring an emoluments lawsuit claiming they were harmed by The President’s competing businesses. The case was dismissed without addressing the merits when The President left office after losing his the 2020 election. DO OTHER U.S. LAWS GOVERN FOREIGN GIFTS? The Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act sets requirements for gifts and allows the president to keep any that are worth less than $480. Gifts worth more than $480 may be accepted on behalf of United States, which retains ownership. Presidents are allowed to keep gifts above the threshold level if they reimburse the government for the fair market cost. —Mike Scarcella and Tom Hals, Reuters View the full article

Tariff policies could cause ‘enormous’ damage, $73bn firm says in letter to investorsView the full article

National parks posting thirst traps on TikTok was not on anyone’s 2025 bingo card. Recently, a Yellowstone National Park fan account has gone viral for pairing clips of adult entertainers and shirtless celebrities with sweeping shots of the park’s natural beauty. In one viral video with 6.8 million views, social media star Thoren Bradley peels off his shirt just before the footage cuts to a serene alpine lake. In the comments, Bradley enthusiastically consents to being used for views to raise awareness for national parks. Another video, which has 6.1 million views, features actor Jason Momoa holding up an ice cream bar and asking, “Bite her or lick her?” The scene cuts to Yellowstone’s Painted Pots. One hashtag ensures it lands with the intended demographic: #momsover30. “Big fan of this campaign,” one user commented. “ParkTok has officially gone harder than BookTok,” wrote another. Johnathon Caine, an adult entertainer on OnlyFans, says he’s gained a wave of new subscribers since the Yellowstone account began using his content. In one video, Caine recalls being off-grid in the mountains when his phone suddenly blew up with national park mentions. “I’m happy that my TikToks can direct attention to the parks in a time of need after the NPS funding got cut. That’s wonderful,” Caine said in the post, adding, “whoever is running the Yellowstone National Park TikTok page . . . how you doing?” Contrary to popular belief, @visit.yellowstone is not the national park’s official social media account. As for who’s behind it? The only hint in the bio is that the creator is happily married and just “obsessed” with Yellowstone. The account has since inspired a number of copycat pages, including one for Yosemite National Park, Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, and the Appalachian Trail. “Do you like your national parks big or on the smaller side?” a Yosemite fan account posted suggestively. “Is it possible for a national park to be too big?” This playful, provocative strategy comes as President Donald The President’s proposed budget slashes more than $1 billion from the National Park Service. Earlier this spring, the department also shuttered the National Park Service Academy, a program that connected young adults from diverse backgrounds with summer jobs in the parks. While the identities and intentions behind the viral TikTok accounts remain unclear, their approach is unmistakably drawing attention to U.S. national parks. As one commenter put it: “Someone’s boss said fine if we don’t get government support make us TikTok famous and we will support our damn selves.” Official national parks social media managers, take note. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Kitchen appliances seem to gain more and more functionality each year, and with that, the lines can blur. Two appliances that might seem similar and equally capable (some look nearly identical) are the juicer and blender, but they’re actually quite different. Before you start shopping, consider the differences between these machines. It’s pretty likely that one will serve you better than the other. How does a juicer work?A juicer, as its name implies, is specifically and exclusively for producing juice from whatever you cram inside. Typically, that means fruits and vegetables. Some juicers are simple handheld machines without the need of a motor, but I’m referring to the electric variety. Most models have a similar setup: a tank on top where you load the food, a base that is equally as large as (if not larger than) the top where the controls and engine are located, a spout for the juice to come out, and a container or spout where the fruit and vegetable fiber collects. Beyond that, there are two types of juicer you should know about: the masticating juicer and the centrifugal juicer. Masticating juicers“Masticate” is a posh way to say “chew.” (It makes me think of Michael Caine analyzing Sandra Bullock eating a steak in Miss Congeniality.) Chewing is exactly what a masticating juicer does. Produce is loaded into the tank, and a mechanism, usually an auger (a spiral ramp for smashing) slowly grinds the plants into a fibrous pulp against a sieve. The juice and some small bits of fiber are pressed through the screen, and the rest of the plant gets left behind for you to discard later. Masticating juicers can also be called “slow juicers” or "cold press juicers" because they take longer to do their work than the centrifugal juicers do. The slow speed ensures your juice never heats up against the mechanism. (Heat can damage vitamin and mineral potency in your juice.) The high-powered pressing produces a juice with some fibrous bits in it and is more likely to result in a thicker, foamier drink that doesn’t separate. For these reason, cold juicing is often preferable and touted for holding onto more nutrients. Additionally, masticating juicers are quiet due to their slow and steady mechanism. Before you head off to the store or click “check out,” note that all of these benefits come with a heavy price tag. Masticating juicers are expensive. I’ve never seen one retailing for under $100, and they’re often several hundred bucks. Ninja JC151 Cold Press Juicer $149.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg Shop Now Shop Now $149.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg Centrifugal juicersA centrifugal juicer produces juice by slicing at high speeds. I can see this variety being the easiest to confuse with a blender. Instead of grinding and pressing, the produce is chopped into tiny bits against a spinning dial. The circular motion shoots the particles and juice against a conical-shaped screen. The free-flying juice goes out the spout and the fiber is retained in a separate container. The high speed cutting of this type of juicer produces heat, and for juice fanatics this can be a deal-breaker. Active enzymes in fresh juice can begin to break down when heated. However, enzymes don’t begin to break down under 104°F. Though it's within the realm of possibility, I would be surprised if the juice could stay at that temperature for long enough to largely reduce the benefits. If you’re worried about it, maybe use fridge-cold produce to keep the temperature lower. Hamilton Beach Juicer $65.27 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg Shop Now Shop Now $65.27 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg Centrifugal juicers are louder than masticating juicers, and the type of juice is prone to separation overnight, but their affordable price range might be worth it. (Also, shaking separated juice to redistribute the solids isn’t hard to do.) You can find centrifugal juicers ranging from $49 and up. How does a blender differ from a juicer? Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann Blenders might look similar to juicers—a loading tank on top and a large base with buttons—but they’re not the same. While juicers juice, you guessed it, blenders blend. The purpose of a blender is to combine all of the ingredients that go in to create a homogeneous consistency. That might be creating a thick paste like peanut butter, emulsifying mayonnaise, blending a chunky pico de gallo, meal prepping baby food, or whipping up a fruit smoothie. Blenders are versatileNot only do blenders chop up produce, but they’ll work with almost anything as long as the blades can catch it. Simply load the food into the container, and press the button for your desired blending speed. There is a small, central, rotating blade at the bottom of the tall container that will finely chop the food items you tossed inside. The powerful motor allows for a range of blade speeds, usually from low to high. Depending on how powerful the motor is, you can put whole fruits in some blenders and it’ll take them down to smooth liquids. A bowl of potato soup I made using my blender. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann However, that’s where the similarities end with blenders and juicers. There is no screen to separate the juice from the fiber. Everything that goes into the tank comes out as one homogeneous consistency. Blenders aren't cheap either. You can find cheap ones, but I've always found there's a huge quality jump between ones under $65 and those starting around $99. This usually reflects the motor's power, but presets, and other bells and whistles can come into play with more expensive models. If you're blending soft foods, you can get away with a less powerful, cheaper machine. If you're frequently taking fibrous things down to a smooth paste or liquid then you'll need more power, and that comes with a higher price tag. I've been most impressed with the Vitamix Ascent X5. This machine has totally knocked my socks off. I've made silky peanut butter and smoothies where you can't find a shred of spinach intact—but it retails for $750. Read here for the full review. Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender $299.95 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $379.95 Save $80.00 Get Deal Get Deal $299.95 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $379.95 Save $80.00 For a more reasonable price, I suggest the E310 model which is still expensive, but nearly half the price of the Ascent X5 and offers almost the same blending power. Another reputable blender in an even cheaper price bracket is the Breville Fresh and Furious blender which retails for $199.95. Which one is best for you?Now that I’ve pulled back the curtain on how juicers and blenders serve different purposes, choosing the right machine should be easy. Juicers are specialists and they’re good at their job. If you’re in need of juices on a regular basis, then you need a juicer. Whether it’s a masticating or centrifugal juicer, it’s up to your preference and how much you’re willing to spend. Consider the noise of the machine, your budget, and if you like a thin or slightly thicker juice consistency. I consider blenders to be more of a kitchen tool than specialty equipment. If you enjoy fruit smoothies, hot blended soups, or you make blender-crêpes every Saturday, then you’ll love a high-powered blender. Regardless of which one fits your lifestyle best, after a week with your new appliance, you won't know how you lived without it. View the full article

The stock price of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) is sinking yet again this morning after reports that the private healthcare company is now under criminal investigation by the Department of Justice (DOJ) over possible Medicare fraud. The company says it has not been notified by the DOJ about the alleged investigation, which was reported by the Wall Street Journal. As of the time of this writing, UNH shares are currently down over 6% to $289.20 per share in premarket trading. UNH shares have not seen that low since 2020. Before today’s premarket fall, UNH shares had already been hammered since 2025 began. The stock closed at $308 yesterday, marking a more than 39% decline since the year began. Over the past six months, UNH stock had fallen 48% as of yesterday’s close. However, a majority of the stock’s fall has happened in the past five days. As of yesterday’s close, the stock was down more than 21% over the period—and today’s further fall is only adding to its losses. Here are three reasons why UNH shares have fallen this week, including the latest news about the reported DOJ criminal investigation. CEO Andrew Witty abruptly steps down On Tuesday, UnitedHealth Group investors were hit with a double whammy of bad news, which sent the stock tumbling as much as 18% that day. The first bit of that bad news was the announcement that UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty was abruptly stepping down from his role as chief executive. Witty had been in the role since 2021 and was a leader whom investors adored. During his tenure, shares in UnitedHealth Group had soared more than 60%. However, after the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in December 2024—and the glee with which many Americans reacted to it—Witty wrote a much-maligned op-ed in the New York Times. Witty was criticized as being out of touch with the negative experiences of customers who have been denied coverage for critical and sometimes lifesaving health procedures. Announcing Witty’s immediate departure on Monday, UnitedHealth Group did not give any detailed explanation of the unexpected move. The company merely said that Witty was stepping down for personal reasons. When a CEO abruptly leaves a company, it can make investors nervous. And nervous investors often sell, which is what happened on Tuesday after the announcement of Witty’s departure. However, Witty’s departure isn’t the only thing that sent UNH shares falling 18% that day. UnitedHealth Group suspends 2025 outlook Also announced on Tuesday was that UnitedHealth Group had decided to suspend its 2025 outlook. When a company suspends its fiscal outlook, it’s a sign to investors that it does not have a lot of confidence in its financial projections for the next year. This uncertainty makes investors nervous and is another reason why the stock plummeted 18% on Tuesday. The reason UnitedHealth Group gave for suspending its 2025 outlook was due to the fact that medical costs for the company’s new Medicare Advantage customer base were higher than expected. Announcing the suspension of its 2025 outlook, UnitedHealth Group’s new CEO, Stephen Hemsley, said he was “deeply disappointed in and apologize for the performance setbacks we have encountered from both external and internal challenges.” The suspension of the 2025 outlook followed a cut that UnitedHealth Group made to its 2025 outlook last month. That cut came after the company missed its quarterly earnings expectations for the first time in more than 10 years. Rumored DOJ criminal investigation Investors were surely hoping yesterday that the worst news for UnitedHealth Group this week was behind it. After the 18% drop in UNH shares on Tuesday, UnitedHealth Group’s stock price closed down just over 1% yesterday—a sign the bleeding had mostly stopped. But now UNH shares are down more than 6% this morning in premarket trading after the Wall Street Journal reported that UnitedHealth Group is now under a criminal investigation by the Department of Justice over possible Medicare fraud. The Journal was light on details in what the alleged criminal allegations covered, saying “the exact nature of the potential criminal allegations against UnitedHealth is unclear,” but it added that it was focused “on the company’s Medicare Advantage business practices.” The Journal’s reporting of a criminal investigation follows a February report from the paper in which it said that UnitedHealth Group was facing an investigation from the DOJ over its Medicare billing practices. Insurers get paid lump sums from the government via the Medicare Advantage system, and if patients have certain conditions, those lump-sum payments could be higher. In its February report, the Journal reported that “Doctors said UnitedHealth . . . trained them to document revenue-generating diagnoses, including some they felt were obscure or irrelevant.” It added, “The company also used software to suggest conditions and paid bonuses for considering the suggestions, among other tactics, according to the doctors.” At the time, UnitedHealth Group called the Journal’s report “misinformation.” Reached for comment about the Journal‘s latest report, UnitedHealth Group referred Fast Company to a statement published on its website: “We have not been notified by the Department of Justice of the supposed criminal investigation reported, without official attribution, in the Wall Street Journal today. The WSJ’s reporting is deeply irresponsible, as even it admits that the ‘exact nature of the potential criminal allegations is unclear.’ We stand by the integrity of our Medicare Advantage program.” Fast Company has also reached out to the DOJ for comment. We will update this post if we hear back. View the full article

The U.S. Supreme Court is poised on Thursday to consider Donald The President’s attempt to broadly enforce his executive order to limit birthright citizenship, a move that would affect thousands of babies born each year as the Republican president seeks a major shift in how the U.S. Constitution has long been understood. The justices are scheduled to hear arguments on the administration’s emergency request to scale back injunctions issued by federal judges in Maryland, Washington and Massachusetts blocking The President’s directive nationwide. The judges found The President’s order likely violates citizenship language in the U.S. Constitution’s 14th Amendment. The case is unusual in that the administration has used it to argue that federal judges lack the authority to issue nationwide, or “universal,” injunctions, and have asked the justices to rule that way and enforce The President’s directive even without weighing its legal merits. The President’s order was challenged by Democratic attorneys general from 22 states as well as individual pregnant immigrants and immigrant rights advocates. His administration is seeking to narrow the injunctions to apply only to the individual plaintiffs and the 22 states, if the justices find the states have the required legal standing to sue. That could allow the policy to take effect in the 28 states that did not sue, aside from any plaintiffs living in those states. The President signed his order, a key part of his hardline approach toward immigration, on January 20, his first day back in office. It directed federal agencies to refuse to recognize the citizenship of U.S.-born children who do not have at least one parent who is an American citizen or lawful permanent resident. The court has a 6-3 conservative majority, including three justices appointed by The President during his first term as president. The plaintiffs argued that The President’s directive violated the 14th Amendment, which long has been understood to confer citizenship on almost anyone born on U.S. soil. The 14th Amendment’s citizenship clause states that all “persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside.” The administration contends that the citizenship clause does not extend to immigrants in the country illegally or immigrants whose presence is lawful but temporary, such as university students or those on work visas. The Justice Department has argued that these people are not subject to the “political jurisdiction” of the United States because their primary allegiance is to foreign countries. Automatic birthright citizenship encourages illegal immigration and “birth tourism” by expectant mothers traveling the United States to give birth and secure citizenship for their children, the Justice Department said. Universal injunctions have become increasingly contentious and have been opposed in recent years by both Republican and Democratic administrations. Judges often have impeded The President’s aggressive use of executive orders and other initiatives this year, sometimes employing universal injunctions. The plaintiffs and other critics have said The President’s directive is the quintessential example of a case in which judges should retain the power to issue universal relief, even if that power is curtailed by the Supreme Court. The 14th Amendment overrode an infamous 1857 Supreme Court decision called Dred Scott v. Sandford that had denied citizenship to Black people and helped fuel the Civil War. An 1898 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in a case called United States v. Wong Kim Ark long has been interpreted as guaranteeing that children born in the United States to non-citizen parents are entitled to American citizenship. The President’s Justice Department has argued that the court’s ruling in that case was narrower, applying to children whose parents had a “permanent domicile and residence in the United States.” —Andrew Chung, John Kruzel, Reuters View the full article

Key Takeaways Understanding the Lead Generation Funnel: Recognize the stages of the lead generation funnel—Awareness, Interest, Consideration, Intent, Evaluation, and Action—to effectively guide potential customers through their buying journey. Role of Social Media: Social media enhances brand visibility and fosters engagement with potential leads, serving as a critical tool in attracting and nurturing customers at each stage of the funnel. Strategic Content Sharing: Utilize diverse content types, such as videos and blogs, along with relevant hashtags, to boost engagement and reach on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Paid Advertising Benefits: Implement targeted social media ads to enhance audience reach and engagement, with A/B testing and clear calls to action to optimize ad performance. Measuring Success: Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as engagement rate, conversion rate, and social media ROI to evaluate and refine your social media strategies effectively. Utilizing Analytics Tools: Leverage tools like Google Analytics and Hootsuite to track engagement metrics and refine your social media efforts for improved lead generation outcomes. In today’s digital landscape, social media isn’t just a platform for sharing updates; it’s a powerful tool in your lead generation funnel. With billions of users scrolling through their feeds daily, it offers a unique opportunity to connect with potential customers at various stages of their buying journey. Understanding how to leverage these platforms can significantly enhance your marketing strategy. Imagine transforming casual interactions into meaningful relationships. By strategically using social media, you can attract, engage, and nurture leads, guiding them seamlessly from awareness to conversion. This article will delve into the vital role social media plays in each stage of the lead generation funnel, helping you harness its full potential for your business. Understanding Lead Generation Funnel The lead generation funnel consists of several stages that guide potential customers from initial awareness to final conversion. Comprehending this funnel is crucial for small businesses, as it helps in utilizing social media effectively to attract and nurture leads. Stages of the Lead Generation Funnel Awareness: At this stage, potential customers discover your brand through social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Engaging content, such as videos and storytelling posts, captures attention and introduces users to your products or services. Using targeted ads and relevant hashtags improves visibility. Interest: Once awareness is established, users seek more information. Here, you can maximize engagement through informative posts, blogs, and social media ads. Content creation strategies, like user-generated content, showcase real-life applications of your offerings, sparking interest. Consideration: Leads evaluate their options during this stage. Community management through interactive social media campaigns, such as Facebook groups or Instagram stories, engages them further. Highlight customer feedback and reviews to build trust and reinforce your brand’s credibility. Intent: Leads exhibit clear intent to purchase. Personalized outreach through social media messaging or retargeting ads on platforms like TikTok and Instagram engages leads meaningfully. Audience targeting and optimized social media posts play a critical role here. Evaluation: Potential customers compare your offerings with competitors. Providing valuable resources, such as how-to guides or webinars, can sway their decision. Maintain brand consistency across social media channels to create a cohesive experience that reinforces your value proposition. Action: This final stage culminates in a purchase. Implementing social media analytics tools allows you to track conversions and refine your strategy. Effective calls to action in your posts and ads can drive users to your website or landing page, facilitating the purchase process. Importance of Each Stage Each stage of the lead generation funnel is vital for nurturing leads and converting them into customers. The awareness stage introduces your brand and establishes a connection, while the interest stage builds curiosity. Consideration helps differentiate your offerings, and intent solidifies the potential customer’s desire to buy. Evaluation ensures your brand stands out, leading to the crucial action stage where sales occur. Optimizing your social media strategy at each point in the funnel enhances your overall lead generation efforts. By understanding these stages and tailoring your approach, you can effectively turn social media followers into loyal customers, boosting your small business’s online presence and revenue. The Role of Social Media in Lead Generation Funnel Social media plays a vital role in guiding potential customers through the lead generation funnel, from awareness to conversion. For small businesses, leveraging social media platforms enhances your visibility and fosters meaningful engagement with your audience. Building Brand Awareness Social media is essential for building brand awareness. You can introduce your small business to potential customers using various strategies: Post engaging content tailored to your audience on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Utilize hashtags relevant to your niche to expand your organic reach. Create visuals, such as videos and infographics, that highlight your offerings and address customer pain points. Implement social media ads to target broader demographics and boost your brand’s visibility through paid promotions. Engaging with Potential Leads Engagement is crucial in transforming casual interactions into lasting relationships. Your social media strategy should incorporate: Community management to respond to inquiries on platforms like Facebook groups and Twitter, fostering customer interaction. User-generated content where your audience shares experiences and reviews, enhancing authenticity. Consistent storytelling through social media posts, reinforcing your brand voice and values. Analytics tools to monitor engagement rates and guide content creation, allowing you to refine your approach based on audience feedback. These tactics not only improve your online presence but also guide potential leads through the various stages of the lead generation funnel, ultimately leading to increased conversions and brand loyalty. Strategies for Leveraging Social Media Social media presents small businesses with unique opportunities for lead generation. By implementing effective strategies, you can enhance brand awareness and engage potential customers at different stages of the lead generation funnel. Content Sharing Techniques Content sharing plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining your audience. Create diverse content types, such as blog posts, videos, and Instagram stories, to reach different segments of your audience. Use platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok to share visual content that captures attention and encourages interactions. Incorporate relevant hashtags to improve organic reach and visibility, allowing you to connect with a broader audience. Schedule your social media posts with a content calendar to maintain brand consistency and ensure timely engagement. Monitor social media analytics to measure content performance, adjusting your strategy based on audience feedback and engagement rates. Utilizing Paid Advertising Paid social advertising provides a powerful boost for small business social media strategies. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn offer targeted advertising options that allow you to reach specific demographics, enhancing audience targeting. Develop visually appealing social media ads that resonate with your brand voice and include clear calls to action. Use A/B testing to optimize ad performance and allocate budget effectively. Analyze the ROI of your paid ads using social media monitoring tools to refine your approach continuously. Engaging in influencer marketing can also amplify your reach, as influencers can introduce your brand to their followers, driving traffic and potential leads. Measuring Success in the Lead Generation Funnel Measuring success in your lead generation funnel provides insights into the effectiveness of your social media efforts. Focusing on specific metrics helps you understand audience engagement and tailor your social media strategy accordingly. Key Performance Indicators Utilizing key performance indicators (KPIs) tracks your social media marketing success. Consider these essential KPIs: Engagement Rate: Measures interactions such as likes, shares, and comments compared to your total follower count. Conversion Rate: Evaluates the percentage of social media traffic that completes a desired action, like signing up for a newsletter or making a purchase. Click-through Rate (CTR): Determines the percentage of users who click on your social media posts leading to your website. Follower Growth Rate: Assesses how quickly your social media followers increase over time, reflecting brand awareness and reach. Social Media ROI: Calculates the return on investment for your social media campaigns, helping you gauge financial effectiveness. Regularly monitoring these KPIs enhances your ability to adjust tactics and maximizes your social media growth. Tools for Tracking Engagement Employing the right tools streamlines tracking engagement on your social media channels. Consider using these effective social media tools: Google Analytics: Offers comprehensive data on website traffic from social media platforms, including user demographics and behavior. Hootsuite: Provides social media scheduling and analytics, allowing you to create a content calendar and monitor posts’ performance across multiple platforms. Sprout Social: Delivers in-depth analytics on engagement rates, follower growth, and social media campaigns. Buffer: Facilitates social media scheduling and provides insights into post performance, helping optimize your content sharing. Facebook Insights & Twitter Analytics: These built-in tools analyze engagement metrics, such as reach and audience interaction, for your posts. Using these tools helps you refine strategies, enhance customer interaction, and improve your social media presence for greater conversion success. Conclusion Harnessing the power of social media in your lead generation funnel can significantly enhance your business’s potential. By strategically engaging with your audience at each stage of their journey you can foster connections that lead to conversions. Utilizing the right platforms and content types allows you to capture attention and build trust. Don’t underestimate the impact of analytics in refining your approach and measuring success. With the right strategies in place you can transform casual followers into loyal customers while boosting your brand’s online presence and revenue. Embrace social media as a vital component of your lead generation efforts and watch your business thrive. Frequently Asked Questions What is the role of social media in lead generation? Social media serves as a powerful tool for lead generation, allowing businesses to connect with potential customers at various stages of their buying journey. It can transform casual interactions into meaningful relationships, guiding leads from awareness to conversion. How does the lead generation funnel work? The lead generation funnel consists of six stages: Awareness, Interest, Consideration, Intent, Evaluation, and Action. Each stage is crucial for nurturing leads and converting them into customers, allowing businesses to engage prospects strategically. What strategies can enhance brand awareness? To enhance brand awareness, businesses should post engaging content, utilize relevant hashtags, create eye-catching visuals, and implement social media ads. Consistent storytelling and user-generated content also play vital roles in capturing audience attention. How can businesses measure social media success? Businesses can measure social media success by tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) like engagement rate, conversion rate, click-through rate, and follower growth rate. Tools like Google Analytics and Hootsuite help streamline tracking efforts for better insights. Why is engagement important in social media marketing? Engagement builds trust and fosters relationships with potential customers. Active communication through community management and feedback encourages loyalty, making it easier to guide leads through the conversion funnel effectively. What platforms are best for visual content sharing? Platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok are ideal for sharing visual content. These platforms support various formats, such as blog posts, videos, and Instagram stories, making it easier to engage with audiences effectively. How does paid advertising fit into lead generation? Paid advertising enhances audience targeting and expands reach, allowing businesses to promote specific products or services effectively. It also facilitates A/B testing to optimize ad performance, ensuring better returns on investment. What are some key tools for tracking social media metrics? Key tools for tracking social media metrics include Google Analytics, Hootsuite, Sprout Social, and Buffer. These tools provide valuable insights into engagement and help refine social media strategies for better results. Image Via Envato This article, "Unlocking the Role of Social Media in Your Lead Generation Funnel for Business Success" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Understanding the Lead Generation Funnel: Recognize the stages of the lead generation funnel—Awareness, Interest, Consideration, Intent, Evaluation, and Action—to effectively guide potential customers through their buying journey. Role of Social Media: Social media enhances brand visibility and fosters engagement with potential leads, serving as a critical tool in attracting and nurturing customers at each stage of the funnel. Strategic Content Sharing: Utilize diverse content types, such as videos and blogs, along with relevant hashtags, to boost engagement and reach on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Paid Advertising Benefits: Implement targeted social media ads to enhance audience reach and engagement, with A/B testing and clear calls to action to optimize ad performance. Measuring Success: Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as engagement rate, conversion rate, and social media ROI to evaluate and refine your social media strategies effectively. Utilizing Analytics Tools: Leverage tools like Google Analytics and Hootsuite to track engagement metrics and refine your social media efforts for improved lead generation outcomes. In today’s digital landscape, social media isn’t just a platform for sharing updates; it’s a powerful tool in your lead generation funnel. With billions of users scrolling through their feeds daily, it offers a unique opportunity to connect with potential customers at various stages of their buying journey. Understanding how to leverage these platforms can significantly enhance your marketing strategy. Imagine transforming casual interactions into meaningful relationships. By strategically using social media, you can attract, engage, and nurture leads, guiding them seamlessly from awareness to conversion. This article will delve into the vital role social media plays in each stage of the lead generation funnel, helping you harness its full potential for your business. Understanding Lead Generation Funnel The lead generation funnel consists of several stages that guide potential customers from initial awareness to final conversion. Comprehending this funnel is crucial for small businesses, as it helps in utilizing social media effectively to attract and nurture leads. Stages of the Lead Generation Funnel Awareness: At this stage, potential customers discover your brand through social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Engaging content, such as videos and storytelling posts, captures attention and introduces users to your products or services. Using targeted ads and relevant hashtags improves visibility. Interest: Once awareness is established, users seek more information. Here, you can maximize engagement through informative posts, blogs, and social media ads. Content creation strategies, like user-generated content, showcase real-life applications of your offerings, sparking interest. Consideration: Leads evaluate their options during this stage. Community management through interactive social media campaigns, such as Facebook groups or Instagram stories, engages them further. Highlight customer feedback and reviews to build trust and reinforce your brand’s credibility. Intent: Leads exhibit clear intent to purchase. Personalized outreach through social media messaging or retargeting ads on platforms like TikTok and Instagram engages leads meaningfully. Audience targeting and optimized social media posts play a critical role here. Evaluation: Potential customers compare your offerings with competitors. Providing valuable resources, such as how-to guides or webinars, can sway their decision. Maintain brand consistency across social media channels to create a cohesive experience that reinforces your value proposition. Action: This final stage culminates in a purchase. Implementing social media analytics tools allows you to track conversions and refine your strategy. Effective calls to action in your posts and ads can drive users to your website or landing page, facilitating the purchase process. Importance of Each Stage Each stage of the lead generation funnel is vital for nurturing leads and converting them into customers. The awareness stage introduces your brand and establishes a connection, while the interest stage builds curiosity. Consideration helps differentiate your offerings, and intent solidifies the potential customer’s desire to buy. Evaluation ensures your brand stands out, leading to the crucial action stage where sales occur. Optimizing your social media strategy at each point in the funnel enhances your overall lead generation efforts. By understanding these stages and tailoring your approach, you can effectively turn social media followers into loyal customers, boosting your small business’s online presence and revenue. The Role of Social Media in Lead Generation Funnel Social media plays a vital role in guiding potential customers through the lead generation funnel, from awareness to conversion. For small businesses, leveraging social media platforms enhances your visibility and fosters meaningful engagement with your audience. Building Brand Awareness Social media is essential for building brand awareness. You can introduce your small business to potential customers using various strategies: Post engaging content tailored to your audience on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Utilize hashtags relevant to your niche to expand your organic reach. Create visuals, such as videos and infographics, that highlight your offerings and address customer pain points. Implement social media ads to target broader demographics and boost your brand’s visibility through paid promotions. Engaging with Potential Leads Engagement is crucial in transforming casual interactions into lasting relationships. Your social media strategy should incorporate: Community management to respond to inquiries on platforms like Facebook groups and Twitter, fostering customer interaction. User-generated content where your audience shares experiences and reviews, enhancing authenticity. Consistent storytelling through social media posts, reinforcing your brand voice and values. Analytics tools to monitor engagement rates and guide content creation, allowing you to refine your approach based on audience feedback. These tactics not only improve your online presence but also guide potential leads through the various stages of the lead generation funnel, ultimately leading to increased conversions and brand loyalty. Strategies for Leveraging Social Media Social media presents small businesses with unique opportunities for lead generation. By implementing effective strategies, you can enhance brand awareness and engage potential customers at different stages of the lead generation funnel. Content Sharing Techniques Content sharing plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining your audience. Create diverse content types, such as blog posts, videos, and Instagram stories, to reach different segments of your audience. Use platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok to share visual content that captures attention and encourages interactions. Incorporate relevant hashtags to improve organic reach and visibility, allowing you to connect with a broader audience. Schedule your social media posts with a content calendar to maintain brand consistency and ensure timely engagement. Monitor social media analytics to measure content performance, adjusting your strategy based on audience feedback and engagement rates. Utilizing Paid Advertising Paid social advertising provides a powerful boost for small business social media strategies. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn offer targeted advertising options that allow you to reach specific demographics, enhancing audience targeting. Develop visually appealing social media ads that resonate with your brand voice and include clear calls to action. Use A/B testing to optimize ad performance and allocate budget effectively. Analyze the ROI of your paid ads using social media monitoring tools to refine your approach continuously. Engaging in influencer marketing can also amplify your reach, as influencers can introduce your brand to their followers, driving traffic and potential leads. Measuring Success in the Lead Generation Funnel Measuring success in your lead generation funnel provides insights into the effectiveness of your social media efforts. Focusing on specific metrics helps you understand audience engagement and tailor your social media strategy accordingly. Key Performance Indicators Utilizing key performance indicators (KPIs) tracks your social media marketing success. Consider these essential KPIs: Engagement Rate: Measures interactions such as likes, shares, and comments compared to your total follower count. Conversion Rate: Evaluates the percentage of social media traffic that completes a desired action, like signing up for a newsletter or making a purchase. Click-through Rate (CTR): Determines the percentage of users who click on your social media posts leading to your website. Follower Growth Rate: Assesses how quickly your social media followers increase over time, reflecting brand awareness and reach. Social Media ROI: Calculates the return on investment for your social media campaigns, helping you gauge financial effectiveness. Regularly monitoring these KPIs enhances your ability to adjust tactics and maximizes your social media growth. Tools for Tracking Engagement Employing the right tools streamlines tracking engagement on your social media channels. Consider using these effective social media tools: Google Analytics: Offers comprehensive data on website traffic from social media platforms, including user demographics and behavior. Hootsuite: Provides social media scheduling and analytics, allowing you to create a content calendar and monitor posts’ performance across multiple platforms. Sprout Social: Delivers in-depth analytics on engagement rates, follower growth, and social media campaigns. Buffer: Facilitates social media scheduling and provides insights into post performance, helping optimize your content sharing. Facebook Insights & Twitter Analytics: These built-in tools analyze engagement metrics, such as reach and audience interaction, for your posts. Using these tools helps you refine strategies, enhance customer interaction, and improve your social media presence for greater conversion success. Conclusion Harnessing the power of social media in your lead generation funnel can significantly enhance your business’s potential. By strategically engaging with your audience at each stage of their journey you can foster connections that lead to conversions. Utilizing the right platforms and content types allows you to capture attention and build trust. Don’t underestimate the impact of analytics in refining your approach and measuring success. With the right strategies in place you can transform casual followers into loyal customers while boosting your brand’s online presence and revenue. Embrace social media as a vital component of your lead generation efforts and watch your business thrive. Frequently Asked Questions What is the role of social media in lead generation? Social media serves as a powerful tool for lead generation, allowing businesses to connect with potential customers at various stages of their buying journey. It can transform casual interactions into meaningful relationships, guiding leads from awareness to conversion. How does the lead generation funnel work? The lead generation funnel consists of six stages: Awareness, Interest, Consideration, Intent, Evaluation, and Action. Each stage is crucial for nurturing leads and converting them into customers, allowing businesses to engage prospects strategically. What strategies can enhance brand awareness? To enhance brand awareness, businesses should post engaging content, utilize relevant hashtags, create eye-catching visuals, and implement social media ads. Consistent storytelling and user-generated content also play vital roles in capturing audience attention. How can businesses measure social media success? Businesses can measure social media success by tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) like engagement rate, conversion rate, click-through rate, and follower growth rate. Tools like Google Analytics and Hootsuite help streamline tracking efforts for better insights. Why is engagement important in social media marketing? Engagement builds trust and fosters relationships with potential customers. Active communication through community management and feedback encourages loyalty, making it easier to guide leads through the conversion funnel effectively. What platforms are best for visual content sharing? Platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok are ideal for sharing visual content. These platforms support various formats, such as blog posts, videos, and Instagram stories, making it easier to engage with audiences effectively. How does paid advertising fit into lead generation? Paid advertising enhances audience targeting and expands reach, allowing businesses to promote specific products or services effectively. It also facilitates A/B testing to optimize ad performance, ensuring better returns on investment. What are some key tools for tracking social media metrics? Key tools for tracking social media metrics include Google Analytics, Hootsuite, Sprout Social, and Buffer. These tools provide valuable insights into engagement and help refine social media strategies for better results. Image Via Envato This article, "Unlocking the Role of Social Media in Your Lead Generation Funnel for Business Success" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. As a marathon runner, I've always taken a minimalist (read: cheap) approach to my gear. But when it comes to properly investing in—and maybe even splurging on—running gear, nothing is more important than your shoes. According to Jessica Lyons-Quirk, director of footwear merchandising at Road Runner Sports, wearing proper footwear is crucial for staying injury-free: "The biggest thing about injuries and foot health is that you need to be in the right shoe for your foot—every foot is different." So as you're racking up miles and incorporating different types of runs into your training, is one pair of sneakers really getting the job done? After all, different running activities place unique demands on your feet and body. Long, slow runs stress your feet differently than explosive track workouts or technical trail runs. But do you really need different shoes for different types of runs? From cushioned trainers to minimalist racers, here's how many shoes you actually need. Different shoes for different runsAlternating or "rotating" shoes gives each pair time to decompress and dry out between runs. Plus, since different shoes stress your muscles and joints in slightly different ways, it helps reduce repetitive strain. And anecdotally, I appreciate the mental shift that comes with a shoe rotation. Changing shoes gives me a sort of psychological transition between easy runs and hard efforts. For distance running, I need a shoe that focuses on cushioning and support. Long-run shoes typically feature: More substantial midsole cushioning to absorb impact over many miles Higher stack heights (the distance between your foot and the ground) More durable materials to withstand extended wear Balanced stability features to maintain proper form as fatigue sets in These design elements help protect your joints from the repetitive impact of logging serious mileage. Lyons-Quirk's go-to recommendation for max cushion is the the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 27: "The softness of both the upper and midsole make this shoe pure magic to run in." If you're looking for a deal, since that Asics Gel Nimbus 27 was released this year at $165, you can bet that the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 just got way more affordable. ASICS Women's Gel-Nimbus 27 $159.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg Shop Now Shop Now $159.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg ASICS Men's Gel-Nimbus 27 $164.95 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg Shop Now Shop Now $164.95 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg When doing intervals, tempo runs, or racing, different qualities become important: Lighter weight to reduce energy expenditure Responsive, often firmer cushioning that returns energy more efficiently Lower stack heights for better ground feel and stability Racing-specific features, like carbon plates These shoes sacrifice some cushioning and durability, but they're lightweight so you can feel like you're flying as fast as you can. Currently, I'm rocking the Brooks Ghost 16—they're the most worn pair you can see in the photo above. Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 $109.95 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $139.95 Save $30.00 Shop Now Shop Now $109.95 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $139.95 Save $30.00 Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 $109.95 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $139.95 Save $30.00 Shop Now Shop Now $109.95 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $139.95 Save $30.00 Is a shoe rotation really necessary?Despite these benefits, not everyone needs multiple specialized pairs. UESCA certified running coach James Rodgers says if you're just getting started, you don't have to invest in multiple pairs. Instead, "having one properly fitted pair to suit you and the majority of your runs would be fine." A proper fitting at a specialty running store is worth the time investment, even if you eventually purchase elsewhere. Similarly, ultramarathoner Merili Freear says you simply don't need dozens of shoes. Even with her ultra-mileage, she typically rotates just three pairs: One pair of trail shoes and two pairs of road shoes. Like a lot of runners, she saves the newer road pair for races and uses the older ones for daily training. "Ultimately, rotating your shoes isn’t about collecting gear—it’s about function, comfort, and protecting your body from overuse." However, if you want to get into trail runs and off-road running, a specialized pair could make sense. According to Rodgers, "having slightly different shoes helps because certain shoes for some running gaits may put increased stress on certain muscles, such as your calves and achilles." Even if you're not rotating shoes simultaneously, remember even the best running shoes have a limited lifespan. Most experts recommend replacing shoes every 300-500 miles; some signs that it's time for new shoes include compressed cushioning, worn outsoles, and new aches and pains. Finding your perfect shoe balanceFor most recreational runners, a two-shoe rotation strikes a good balance: A well-cushioned, durable daily trainer for most runs. A lighter, more responsive shoe for workouts and races. Of course, there are plenty of other factors to consider. Quality running shoes aren't cheap, and if you mostly do similar runs, the benefits diminish. Generally speaking, higher-mileage runners benefit more from rotation. More serious runners might expand to three or more pairs, adding trail shoes or super-cushioned recovery shoes to the mix. The bottom lineMany runners successfully train in a single pair of well-chosen, all-purpose running shoes. While specialized shoes can enhance specific types of running, rotating shoes isn't necessary for the average runner. Here are some of my money-saving strategies that work across all runner types. Whatever approach you take, remember that the best shoes are the ones that keep you running comfortably. You're going to constantly be injury-prone if you aren't in the right shoe, and you're never going to hit your training goals if you're constantly resting off an injury. For more, check out my round-up of the best running shoes on the market right now, according to the experts. View the full article

The new The President administration has brought deregulation and staff cuts to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, leaving many wondering what's next. View the full article

While estimates of the percentage of neurodivergent people globally typically range from 15–20%, new survey results from neurodiversity advocacy and support nonprofit Understood suggest that the true percentage of neurodivergent adults may be higher. For one, more people are being diagnosed with ADHD and autism and other conditions that fall under the umbrella of neurodivergence. But more people may also be self-identifying as neurodivergent—especially in younger generations. Deloitte’s 2023 Gen Z and Millennial Survey showed that 53% of Gen Z self-identify as neurodivergent. “The people who identify or have symptoms of [neurodivergence], will far exceed the most conservative estimate of those who have been actually diagnosed,” says Nathan Friedman, copresident and chief marketing officer of Understood. He suggests that barriers such as high psychiatry costs and the misdiagnosis of neurodivergent women might prevent individuals from pursuing (or acquiring) a formal diagnosis. In April, Understood conducted a weighted survey of over 2000 U.S. adults, 659 of whom identify as neurodivergent. Thirty-one percent of respondents had at least wondered if they were neurodivergent although only 11% had received an official diagnosis. Stigma around requesting accommodations In a recent ResumeGenius poll of 1000 hiring managers, 86% claim that disclosing neurodivergence in an application would have either a positive or neutral effect on their hiring decision. But Understood’s research suggests that neurodivergent workers have real concerns. In the survey, 64% of employed U.S. adults agree that people speak about their neurodivergence at work more openly now, but 70% agree there’s a stigma around asking for workplace accommodations. That’s a 10% increase from their results last year. Among those workers who have requested accommodations, only 56% received ones that actually improved their work experience. One in four got accommodations that weren’t helpful, one in five were outright denied, and nearly one in five later regretted asking. “Asking for accommodations doesn’t necessarily mean you’re unable to perform or you’re unable to achieve the results of what’s expected,” says Friedman. The accommodations that workers typically ask for are simple to implement, he says. “Accommodations could be anything from a flexible work environment to changing desks . . . [These] are pretty simple things that can help somebody improve how they work, the output of their work, and their feeling about how they work.” Despite this, 15% of respondents said they had lost a job, were demoted, or lost a job opportunity after asking for accommodations. Part of this increase in perceived stigma may be connected with the The President administration’s attacks on DEI in the workplace. In fact, the survey results show that 64% of U.S. adults believe DEI program rollbacks will make it more difficult for people to access workplace accommodations. “Difference right now is not seen as a good thing—regardless of where you’re at,” says Friedman. What can be done Reducing stigma and improving the efficacy of workplace accommodations starts with proper education about neurodivergence in the workplace. “We hear so many stories about individuals who don’t have the right accommodations and are let go because they don’t have what’s needed to do their job,” says Friedman. “So providing the education, providing the pathway to get an accommodation, and delivering the accommodations are all required.” This is especially crucial as Gen Z now outnumbers boomers in the workplace. “Over 50% of Gen Z believes they are neurodivergent,” says Friedman. “If you’re a company of 10,000 people, that’s upwards of 5,000 people that you could get a better work product from. . . . So [offering accommodations] is a win for everyone.” View the full article