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Innovation has stalled in a globalised era dominated by state-sponsored national championsView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Before I moved to Portland, I didn’t understand how passionate people can be about strawberries. But once I started growing strawberries, I came to understand that a disproportionate percentage of berries I grew would be lost to bugs, wildlife, and disease. Since summer is short, I’ve worked hard to minimize my losses, and I have suggestions for protecting these precious garden jewels. Keep strawberries off the ground This is how most people grow strawberries—on the ground. Credit: Amanda Blum Strawberries are a ground cover, spreading through runners, which create the next generation of strawberry plants. Each plant grows berries at the ends of stems, and those berries usually make contact with the ground. There, they are exposed to prolonged moisture from the soil, are easy picking for bugs, and are harder for you to spot for picking. So the obvious answer is to prevent contact with the ground. By planting vertically, I have room for tons of plants, and they're not exposed to the wet soil Credit: Amanda Blum There are plenty of options, including the classic strawberry planter. There are many versions of this traditional terra cotta planter with multiple portholes for berry plants, and you simply plant one in each porthole. In recent years, I’ve seen Pinterest boards inundated with strawberries growing in gutters so you can elevate them above ground. I created a vertical planter, and all of these solutions have some common benefits and challenges. Because you’re not planting in the ground, your plants have less soil to root in, and that soil dries out faster. You’ll need to be conscious of this and ensure you’re using a soil that has additives to hold onto moisture, like potting soil, which usually includes vermiculite and perlite. Make sure that soil has the right fertilizer (strawberries like a slightly acidic soil) and consistent watering systems, so they always have moisture in the soil (but are not soaking wet). This lack of soil protection means your plants lack insulation from winter’s cold, so it’s unlikely your plants will survive from year to year; expect to replace them each spring. That said, I argue it’s worth it, because each plant has excellent exposure to sun, and the berries hang, where they have air flowing around them and are out of reach to soil-bound pests like pill bugs. The berries are easy to spot, and get sun exposure for ripening. This all makes for easy picking. Not for nothing, I love freeing up the ground for other plants. Modern lightweight strawberry planter $27.20 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $59.99 Save $32.79 Shop Now Shop Now $27.20 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $59.99 Save $32.79 3 tier strawberry self watering planter $27.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg Shop Now Shop Now $27.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg Tall strawberry tower $45.99 at Amazon $59.99 Save $14.00 Shop Now Shop Now $45.99 at Amazon $59.99 Save $14.00 SEE 0 MORE If you can’t go vertical with your berries, and you’re stuck with ground cover, strawberry supports may be the answer. These trellises are like a small platform your berry plant grows through, and they loft your plant enough to keep berries off the ground. The key is to get your the supports on your plant early in the season while the plant is quite small. The nice thing is that there’s nothing particularly advanced about these supports; you can grab them from all sorts of providers, and even 3-D print them yourself. If you grow on the ground using these supports, you should still consider additional pest protections. If nothing else, plant berries at the edge of raised beds, so they'll grow over the edge, and be elevated off the ground. Credit: Amanda Blum How to protect strawberries from pestsIf you’re not going to go vertical, you’ll need to do some work to beat the pests to your harvest. For common strawberry villains like pill bugs, spreading around diatomaceous earth (a silica-based powder commonly called DE) is effective, but it requires multiple applications. DE is popular because it’s “non-toxic” and won’t hurt earthworms or your fruit. Slugs are another berry killer, but DE can’t kill slugs; for effective slug control, you need Sluggo (a slug and snail treatment), which will also require multiple treatments (after rain, etc). The difference is that Sluggo is iron phosphate based, and it can build up in soil; so while it is effective, you don’t want to overuse it. Following the directions is important. The redness of strawberries makes them perfect picking for rodents and birds, and while you can’t fake out a rat (effective rat traps are your only bet), you can fake out birds. Gardeners sometimes paint rocks the approximate size of strawberries the same red color and lay them among the berry plants. Birds will peck the rocks and eventually be trained to leave the berry patch alone. While this one sounds suspect, I’ve been doing it for years, and have seen it work. View the full article

If you're wondering what your computer's BIOS or UEFI is, and whether or not you need to update it, you've come to the right place. I'll explain what these terms mean, what these pieces of software do, and why it might (or might not) be a good idea to install updates for them. What does BIOS and UEFI mean?The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is something every computer has, though unless you're running an ancient computer, you'll have a UEFI installed rather than a BIOS. And we're dealing specifically with Windows computers here: Macs take their own custom approach to this, as Apple is in control of the operating system and the underlying motherboard and chipset in a way that Microsoft and PC makers aren't. On Apple computers, all you need to do is make sure macOS is up to date. What does BIOS and UEFI do?Your PC's BIOS or UEFI represents the lowest level of software, the most fundamental and foundational code running on your machine, often known as firmware. It runs from the motherboard, ensures all the various components of your computer are talking to each other, and makes the necessary preparations for Windows to boot up. BIOS is the older technology; computers sold today use UEFI instead. In simple terms, UEFI improves on the basics of BIOS, adding support for more modern security standards and internal components. However, both BIOS and UEFI are essentially doing the same job. A UEFI screen on an Asus motherboard. Credit: Asus With the advent of UEFI, we got some helpful upgrades in terms of user interface, too: Nowadays you can access the firmware using a mouse, whereas before you were limited to keyboard operation. There's now provision for accessing the internet too, before you get into the Windows operating system. As often happens with computing terms, BIOS and UEFI can sometimes be used interchangeably. If you see talk about a BIOS with a modern computer, it's almost certainly talking about the UEFI, reflecting that the latter has effectively replaced the former. There are some rather detailed technical differences, too, but most of us don't need to know about them. Should you update your BIOS or UEFI?That's the big question—and you'll find a variety of answers online. A good general approach is to not worry too much about BIOS/UEFI updates unless you're experiencing problems, or you've been told to run an update by your PC manufacturer. These updates aren't quite as crucial as Windows updates for performance and security. That said, BIOS/UEFI updates can absolutely bring security and performance improvements with them. As Dell puts it, updates can enhance "performance, stability, and compatibility with new software and hardware." Meanwhile, HP recommends updates if you need to support new hardware or fix known bugs and issues. System Information will tell you what your motherboard is. Credit: Lifehacker There's no doubt you can completely brick your computer with a firmware upgrade, but then that's true of a Windows update or a hard drive upgrade. As long as you follow the instructions provided by the maker of your PC or your PC's motherboard, you shouldn't run into any problems—though maybe double-check all your backups are current. I'd recommend keeping an eye open for updates from whichever company made your PC or manufactured the motherboard inside it (find and run System Information from the Start menu to identify your motherboard). If an urgent BIOS/UEFI upgrade is needed, or if an update will add some major new functionality, you should then hear about it. How to update the BIOS or UEFIThe exact method for updating your PC's BIOS or UEFI will depend on the make and model of motherboard you have installed. Traditionally, BIOS/UEFI updates have been done by running a utility from a USB drive and rebooting your PC, but nowadays you'll most likely have a variety of options to pick from. If you've got a Dell PC, for example, you've got no fewer than seven different update options to pick from. The easiest options are to use Dell's SupportAssist utility or to look out for firmware patches in Windows Update: In both cases you can take care of everything through Windows, without any extra software. Dell PCs can be updated via the SupportAssist utility. Credit: Dell I've got an Asus motherboard, which means the MyAsus utility for updating the BIOS/UEFI and the latest updates themselves are available via the Asus Download Center. Other motherboard makers have similar portals, enabling you to search for the model you've got and find the most recent utilities for them. As for getting to the BIOS/UEFI itself, the process for this varies by PC too: Typically, when your PC boots up, it'll tell you the key you need to press to head to the BIOS/UEFI instead of Windows. From Windows itself, you can open Settings then choose System > Recovery and click Restart now next to Advanced startup. When your PC reboots, pick Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings. View the full article

Riyadh’s latest multibillion-dollar push will bring new focus to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s tech ambitions View the full article

House Republicans unveiled the cost-saving centerpiece of President Donald The President’s “big, beautiful bill” late Sunday, at least $880 billion in cuts largely to Medicaid to help cover the cost of $4.5 trillion in tax breaks. Tallying hundreds of pages, the legislation is touching off the biggest political fight over health care since Republicans tried to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, during The President’s first term in 2017—which ended in failure. While Republicans insist they are simply rooting out “waste, fraud and abuse” to generate savings with new work and eligibility requirements, Democrats warn that millions of Americans will lose coverage. A preliminary estimate from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said the proposals would reduce the number of people with health care by 8.6 million over the decade. “Savings like these allow us to use this bill to renew the The President tax cuts and keep Republicans’ promise to hardworking middle-class families,” said Rep. Brett Guthrie of Kentucky, the GOP chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, which handles health care spending. But Democrats said the cuts are “shameful” and essentially amount to another attempt to repeal Obamacare. “In no uncertain terms, millions of Americans will lose their health care coverage,” said Rep. Frank Pallone of New Jersey, the top Democrat on the panel. He said “hospitals will close, seniors will not be able to access the care they need, and premiums will rise for millions of people if this bill passes.” As Republicans race toward House Speaker Mike Johnson’s Memorial Day deadline to pass The President’s big bill of tax breaks and spending cuts, they are preparing to flood the zone with round-the-clock public hearings this week on various sections before they are stitched together in what will become a massive package. The politics ahead are uncertain. More than a dozen House Republicans have told Johnson and GOP leaders they will not support cuts to the health care safety net programs that residents back home depend on. The President himself has shied away from a repeat of his first term, vowing there will be no cuts to Medicaid. All told, 11 committees in the House have been compiling their sections of the package as Republicans seek at least $1.5 trillion in savings to help cover the cost of preserving the 2017 tax breaks, which were approved during The President’s first term and are expiring at the end of the year. But the powerful Energy and Commerce Committee has been among the most watched. The committee was instructed to come up with $880 billion in savings and reached that goal, primarily with the health care cuts, but also by rolling back Biden-era green energy programs. The preliminary CBO analysis said the committee’s proposals would reduce the deficit by $912 billion over the decade — with at least $715 billion coming from the health provisions. Central to the savings are changes to Medicaid, which provides almost free health care to more than 70 million Americans, and the Affordable Care Act, which has expanded in the 15 years since it was first approved to cover millions more. To be eligible for Medicaid, there would be new “community engagement requirements” of at least 80 hours per month of work, education or service for able-bodied adults without dependents. People would also have to verify their eligibility to be in the program twice a year, rather than just once. This is likely to lead to more churn in the program and present hurdles for people to stay covered, especially if they have to drive far to a local benefits office to verify their income in person. But Republicans say it’ll ensure that the program is administered to those who qualify for it. Many states have expanded their Medicaid rosters thanks to federal incentives, but the legislation would cut a 5% boost that was put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. Federal funding to the states for immigrants who have not shown proof of citizenship would be prohibited. There would be a freeze on the so-called provider tax that some states use to help pay for large portions of their Medicaid programs. The extra tax often leads to higher payments from the federal government, which critics say is a loophole that creates abuse in the system. The energy portions of the legislation run far fewer pages, but include rollbacks of climate-change strategies President Joe Biden signed into law in the Inflation Reduction Act. It proposes rescinding funds for a range of energy loans and investment programs while providing expedited permitting for natural gas development and oil pipelines. __ Associated Press writer Amanda Seitz contributed to this report. —Lisa Mascaro, AP Congressional Correspondent View the full article

Key Takeaways Diverse Business Ideas: Solopreneurs can explore various business models, including online coaching, e-commerce, and course creation, catering to different skills and market demands. Importance of a Business Plan: Crafting a solid business plan is crucial for defining goals, identifying niches, and setting financial objectives, which guide long-term success. Effective Marketing Strategies: Leveraging social media and building an email list are vital for customer acquisition and brand awareness, driving engagement and sales. Utilizing Tools and Resources: Access to the right platforms and tools, such as financial management software and e-commerce solutions, enhances operational efficiency and business growth. Navigating Challenges: Solopreneurs face challenges such as financial management, market research, and legal structures. Understanding these hurdles is essential for developing effective strategies. Networking and Innovation: Engaging with mentors and participating in networking opportunities are key for support and insights, while ongoing innovation helps solopreneurs adapt to changing market trends. Are you ready to take charge of your career and explore the exciting world of solopreneurship? With the rise of remote work and digital platforms, starting your own business has never been more accessible. Whether you’re looking to turn a passion into profit or seeking flexibility in your work life, there’s a solopreneur idea that fits your skills and interests. In this article, you’ll discover a variety of solopreneur business ideas that can help you carve out your niche. From freelancing to e-commerce, the possibilities are endless. So grab your notebook and get ready to ignite your entrepreneurial spirit as you explore opportunities that can lead to financial independence and personal fulfillment. Popular Solopreneur Business Ideas Solopreneurs have a variety of options to create successful businesses. Explore these popular ideas that suit different skills and interests. Online Coaching and Consulting Online coaching and consulting allow you to leverage your expertise. You can guide clients in areas like business, health, or personal development. Set up a professional website, optimize it for SEO, and create engaging content to attract your target audience. Develop a clear business model that outlines your services, pricing, and customer acquisition strategies. Consider using email marketing to keep clients informed about your offerings and schedule regular sessions to provide value. Establishing a brand identity enhances trust and credibility, crucial elements in securing your niche. E-commerce and Dropshipping E-commerce presents a lucrative opportunity for solopreneurs. You can sell products online through your own website or established platforms. Focus on dropshipping to minimize inventory costs. Research trending products to optimize your market research and cater to specific customer needs. Implement digital marketing strategies, including social media and content marketing, to drive traffic and sales. Pay close attention to customer service and build a sales funnel to nurture leads effectively. Establish legal structures, such as an LLC, to protect your personal assets while engaging in e-commerce. Use analytics to refine your growth strategy and maximize your profit margins. Crafting a Business Plan Creating a solid business plan is essential for your solopreneur venture. A well-structured plan not only outlines your goals but also provides a clear roadmap for achieving them. Identifying Your Niche Identify your niche to tailor your business model effectively. Market research helps pinpoint specific needs in your target audience, enhancing your competitive edge. Focus on what sets you apart and how your expertise meets customer demands. Consider leveraging digital marketing and SEO strategies to enhance visibility and attract potential clients. Setting Financial Goals Set clear financial goals to guide your budget and expenses effectively. Determine your profit margin expectations and factor in costs such as taxes, marketing, and operational expenses. Funding options like business grants, crowdfunding, or even bootstrapping can provide the necessary capital for growth. Regularly assess your cash flow and adjust your financial strategies as your business evolves, ensuring sustainability and scalability in your operations. Marketing Strategies for Solopreneurs Effective marketing strategies are essential for solopreneurs aiming to establish and grow a successful business. Focus on two key areas: leveraging social media and building an email list. Leveraging Social Media Social media platforms provide a powerful avenue for customer acquisition and brand awareness. Utilize multiple channels, such as Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, to reach your target audience effectively. Post consistently and engage with followers through comments and messages. Create valuable content that showcases your expertise in your niche, reinforcing your brand. Use targeted ads to enhance visibility and drive sales. Consider running promotional campaigns and collaborations with influencers to expand your reach. Analyze metrics to assess the performance of your posts, adjusting your strategy accordingly to improve engagement and ROI. Building an Email List Building an email list offers a direct line of communication with potential and existing customers. Start by creating a lead magnet, such as a free e-book or exclusive discounts, to entice visitors to subscribe. Use email marketing tools to design visually appealing newsletters that keep subscribers informed about your latest products, services, and promotions. Segment your list based on customer preferences to personalize your messaging and enhance engagement. Regularly send value-driven content, offering tips, resources, or updates that resonate with your audience. Aim for a strong call to action in each email to guide your subscribers toward making a purchase or using your services. This approach can significantly impact your sales funnel and help improve your conversion rates. Tools and Resources for Solopreneurs Utilizing the right tools and resources simplifies the process of starting and growing a solopreneur business. Access to various platforms strengthens your marketing, sales, and operational strategies, helping you achieve your business goals effectively. Online Course Creation When pursuing online course creation, platforms like Teachable, Thinkific, and Maven provide all-in-one solutions. These tools assist you in developing and launching courses, facilitating your task of monetizing knowledge efficiently. E-commerce Platforms For customized e-commerce solutions, consider using Shopify or WooCommerce. These platforms enable you to efficiently build online stores, manage inventory, and implement customer service tools. By integrating no-code solutions, you can enhance personalized marketing automation, streamlining operations and improving customer acquisition efforts. Virtual Event Planning If virtual events interest you, services like Eventbrite and Hopin offer comprehensive event management features. These resources assist in organizing conferences, webinars, and workshops, ensuring seamless planning and attendee engagement. Analytic tools included in these platforms help assess performance and optimize future events. Marketing and SEO Tools Investing in marketing tools like HubSpot, Mailchimp, and Canva supports your branding, social media, and email marketing efforts. These resources enable you to create marketing campaigns tailored to your target audience, enhancing your online presence and driving traffic to your business. Employing SEO strategies ensures that your content ranks well in search engine results, making it easier for potential customers to find you. Financial Management Tools For managing finances, consider using QuickBooks or FreshBooks. These accounting tools help you track expenses, generate invoices, and manage cash flow. They provide insights into your profit margin, allowing you to make informed decisions about budgeting and funding options. Accessing legal advice ensures compliance with regulations related to taxes, business registration, and legal structures like LLCs or sole proprietorships. Networking and Mentorship Participating in local business incubators or joining entrepreneur groups fosters networking opportunities. Engaging with business coaches or mentors provides valuable insights and support as you navigate the solopreneur landscape. Building relationships can lead to partnerships and collaborations that enhance your business growth strategy. By leveraging these tools and resources, you can streamline operations while focusing on innovation and product development. Adopting a strategic approach to your solopreneur journey enhances your chances of success in a competitive marketplace. Challenges Faced by Solopreneurs Solopreneurs encounter various challenges that can impact their small business operations. Understanding these hurdles is essential for crafting effective growth strategies. Financial Management Managing finances requires strict budgeting and monitoring cash flow. Solopreneurs must handle expenses and profits independently, which includes accounting responsibilities and tax obligations. Utilizing financial management tools like QuickBooks simplifies tracking, yet maintaining accurate records demands discipline. Market Research Conducting thorough market research is crucial for identifying your target audience and validating your business idea. Without this research, solopreneurs risk misaligning their offerings with market needs, leading to wasted resources. Marketing and Customer Acquisition Establishing a robust marketing strategy significantly impacts customer acquisition. Solopreneurs need to leverage digital marketing tactics, including SEO, email marketing, and content marketing. While creating a brand presence online helps, generating leads requires consistent effort and innovation. Legal Structure Choosing the right legal structure, whether an LLC, sole proprietorship, or partnership, affects liability and taxes. Navigating legal registration and permits can pose challenges for solopreneurs. Seeking legal advice from professionals ensures compliance with local laws and regulations. Networking and Mentorship Building relationships through networking complicates maintaining a solo operation. Yet, connecting with business incubators or mentorship programs provides valuable insights and support. Solopreneurs benefit from sharing experiences and resources with others in the entrepreneurial community. Resource Allocation Managing multiple roles in your business leads to resource allocation issues. Solopreneurs often struggle with prioritizing tasks, impacting productivity and growth. Developing a clear business plan and utilizing automation tools helps streamline operations. Innovation and Adaptability Remaining innovative while adapting to market trends is essential for long-term success. Staying ahead requires understanding changes in customer preferences and competition. Solopreneurs must continuously innovate their product development to meet evolving needs while avoiding stagnation. By recognizing and addressing these challenges, you can create a more resilient business model capable of supporting your solopreneurial journey. Conclusion Embracing solopreneurship opens doors to endless possibilities. By exploring business ideas that resonate with your skills and passions, you can carve out a fulfilling career on your own terms. Remember that establishing a solid foundation through market research and a clear business plan is crucial for success. Stay proactive in your marketing efforts and leverage digital tools to streamline your operations. As you navigate the challenges of solopreneurship, keep adapting and innovating to stay ahead. With determination and the right strategies, you can build a thriving business that reflects your unique vision and leads to financial independence. Take that first step today and watch your entrepreneurial dreams unfold. Frequently Asked Questions What is solopreneurship? Solopreneurship is the practice of running a business as a single individual without co-founders or partners. It allows entrepreneurs to leverage their skills and interests, often through digital platforms, to create a flexible and sustainable career. What are some popular solopreneur business ideas? Popular solopreneur business ideas include freelancing, online coaching, consulting, e-commerce, and dropshipping. Each of these options allows individuals to capitalize on their expertise while working independently. How can I establish an online presence as a solopreneur? Establishing an online presence involves creating a professional website, engaging on social media platforms, and showcasing your work or services. Consistent branding and valuable content can help attract and retain clients. Why is a business plan important for solopreneurs? A business plan serves as a roadmap for your venture. It outlines goals, strategies, and financial projections, helping solopreneurs make informed decisions and stay focused on growth and sustainability. How can I identify my niche as a solopreneur? Identify your niche through thorough market research, which helps you understand client needs and competition. Tailor your offerings to meet those needs, enhancing your appeal and marketability. What funding options should solopreneurs consider? Solopreneurs can explore various funding options such as personal savings, grants, crowdfunding, or small business loans. Each option has its pros and cons, depending on the specific business needs and goals. What marketing strategies are effective for solopreneurs? Effective marketing strategies include leveraging social media for brand awareness, building an email list for direct engagement, and creating valuable content. These tactics help attract customers and enhance conversion rates. What tools can assist solopreneurs in business management? Solopreneurs can benefit from tools like Teachable for online courses, Shopify for e-commerce, and QuickBooks for financial management. Marketing tools like HubSpot and Mailchimp also aid in enhancing online visibility. What challenges do solopreneurs face? Common challenges include financial management, market research, establishing a marketing strategy, and navigating legal requirements. Recognizing these hurdles allows solopreneurs to develop strategies for overcoming them. How can networking benefit solopreneurs? Networking provides solopreneurs with opportunities to connect with peers, mentors, and potential clients. Building relationships through local business groups or online communities can lead to valuable support and growth. Image Via Envato This article, "Inspiring Solopreneur Business Ideas for Financial Independence and Personal Fulfillment" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Diverse Business Ideas: Solopreneurs can explore various business models, including online coaching, e-commerce, and course creation, catering to different skills and market demands. Importance of a Business Plan: Crafting a solid business plan is crucial for defining goals, identifying niches, and setting financial objectives, which guide long-term success. Effective Marketing Strategies: Leveraging social media and building an email list are vital for customer acquisition and brand awareness, driving engagement and sales. Utilizing Tools and Resources: Access to the right platforms and tools, such as financial management software and e-commerce solutions, enhances operational efficiency and business growth. Navigating Challenges: Solopreneurs face challenges such as financial management, market research, and legal structures. Understanding these hurdles is essential for developing effective strategies. Networking and Innovation: Engaging with mentors and participating in networking opportunities are key for support and insights, while ongoing innovation helps solopreneurs adapt to changing market trends. Are you ready to take charge of your career and explore the exciting world of solopreneurship? With the rise of remote work and digital platforms, starting your own business has never been more accessible. Whether you’re looking to turn a passion into profit or seeking flexibility in your work life, there’s a solopreneur idea that fits your skills and interests. In this article, you’ll discover a variety of solopreneur business ideas that can help you carve out your niche. From freelancing to e-commerce, the possibilities are endless. So grab your notebook and get ready to ignite your entrepreneurial spirit as you explore opportunities that can lead to financial independence and personal fulfillment. Popular Solopreneur Business Ideas Solopreneurs have a variety of options to create successful businesses. Explore these popular ideas that suit different skills and interests. Online Coaching and Consulting Online coaching and consulting allow you to leverage your expertise. You can guide clients in areas like business, health, or personal development. Set up a professional website, optimize it for SEO, and create engaging content to attract your target audience. Develop a clear business model that outlines your services, pricing, and customer acquisition strategies. Consider using email marketing to keep clients informed about your offerings and schedule regular sessions to provide value. Establishing a brand identity enhances trust and credibility, crucial elements in securing your niche. E-commerce and Dropshipping E-commerce presents a lucrative opportunity for solopreneurs. You can sell products online through your own website or established platforms. Focus on dropshipping to minimize inventory costs. Research trending products to optimize your market research and cater to specific customer needs. Implement digital marketing strategies, including social media and content marketing, to drive traffic and sales. Pay close attention to customer service and build a sales funnel to nurture leads effectively. Establish legal structures, such as an LLC, to protect your personal assets while engaging in e-commerce. Use analytics to refine your growth strategy and maximize your profit margins. Crafting a Business Plan Creating a solid business plan is essential for your solopreneur venture. A well-structured plan not only outlines your goals but also provides a clear roadmap for achieving them. Identifying Your Niche Identify your niche to tailor your business model effectively. Market research helps pinpoint specific needs in your target audience, enhancing your competitive edge. Focus on what sets you apart and how your expertise meets customer demands. Consider leveraging digital marketing and SEO strategies to enhance visibility and attract potential clients. Setting Financial Goals Set clear financial goals to guide your budget and expenses effectively. Determine your profit margin expectations and factor in costs such as taxes, marketing, and operational expenses. Funding options like business grants, crowdfunding, or even bootstrapping can provide the necessary capital for growth. Regularly assess your cash flow and adjust your financial strategies as your business evolves, ensuring sustainability and scalability in your operations. Marketing Strategies for Solopreneurs Effective marketing strategies are essential for solopreneurs aiming to establish and grow a successful business. Focus on two key areas: leveraging social media and building an email list. Leveraging Social Media Social media platforms provide a powerful avenue for customer acquisition and brand awareness. Utilize multiple channels, such as Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, to reach your target audience effectively. Post consistently and engage with followers through comments and messages. Create valuable content that showcases your expertise in your niche, reinforcing your brand. Use targeted ads to enhance visibility and drive sales. Consider running promotional campaigns and collaborations with influencers to expand your reach. Analyze metrics to assess the performance of your posts, adjusting your strategy accordingly to improve engagement and ROI. Building an Email List Building an email list offers a direct line of communication with potential and existing customers. Start by creating a lead magnet, such as a free e-book or exclusive discounts, to entice visitors to subscribe. Use email marketing tools to design visually appealing newsletters that keep subscribers informed about your latest products, services, and promotions. Segment your list based on customer preferences to personalize your messaging and enhance engagement. Regularly send value-driven content, offering tips, resources, or updates that resonate with your audience. Aim for a strong call to action in each email to guide your subscribers toward making a purchase or using your services. This approach can significantly impact your sales funnel and help improve your conversion rates. Tools and Resources for Solopreneurs Utilizing the right tools and resources simplifies the process of starting and growing a solopreneur business. Access to various platforms strengthens your marketing, sales, and operational strategies, helping you achieve your business goals effectively. Online Course Creation When pursuing online course creation, platforms like Teachable, Thinkific, and Maven provide all-in-one solutions. These tools assist you in developing and launching courses, facilitating your task of monetizing knowledge efficiently. E-commerce Platforms For customized e-commerce solutions, consider using Shopify or WooCommerce. These platforms enable you to efficiently build online stores, manage inventory, and implement customer service tools. By integrating no-code solutions, you can enhance personalized marketing automation, streamlining operations and improving customer acquisition efforts. Virtual Event Planning If virtual events interest you, services like Eventbrite and Hopin offer comprehensive event management features. These resources assist in organizing conferences, webinars, and workshops, ensuring seamless planning and attendee engagement. Analytic tools included in these platforms help assess performance and optimize future events. Marketing and SEO Tools Investing in marketing tools like HubSpot, Mailchimp, and Canva supports your branding, social media, and email marketing efforts. These resources enable you to create marketing campaigns tailored to your target audience, enhancing your online presence and driving traffic to your business. Employing SEO strategies ensures that your content ranks well in search engine results, making it easier for potential customers to find you. Financial Management Tools For managing finances, consider using QuickBooks or FreshBooks. These accounting tools help you track expenses, generate invoices, and manage cash flow. They provide insights into your profit margin, allowing you to make informed decisions about budgeting and funding options. Accessing legal advice ensures compliance with regulations related to taxes, business registration, and legal structures like LLCs or sole proprietorships. Networking and Mentorship Participating in local business incubators or joining entrepreneur groups fosters networking opportunities. Engaging with business coaches or mentors provides valuable insights and support as you navigate the solopreneur landscape. Building relationships can lead to partnerships and collaborations that enhance your business growth strategy. By leveraging these tools and resources, you can streamline operations while focusing on innovation and product development. Adopting a strategic approach to your solopreneur journey enhances your chances of success in a competitive marketplace. Challenges Faced by Solopreneurs Solopreneurs encounter various challenges that can impact their small business operations. Understanding these hurdles is essential for crafting effective growth strategies. Financial Management Managing finances requires strict budgeting and monitoring cash flow. Solopreneurs must handle expenses and profits independently, which includes accounting responsibilities and tax obligations. Utilizing financial management tools like QuickBooks simplifies tracking, yet maintaining accurate records demands discipline. Market Research Conducting thorough market research is crucial for identifying your target audience and validating your business idea. Without this research, solopreneurs risk misaligning their offerings with market needs, leading to wasted resources. Marketing and Customer Acquisition Establishing a robust marketing strategy significantly impacts customer acquisition. Solopreneurs need to leverage digital marketing tactics, including SEO, email marketing, and content marketing. While creating a brand presence online helps, generating leads requires consistent effort and innovation. Legal Structure Choosing the right legal structure, whether an LLC, sole proprietorship, or partnership, affects liability and taxes. Navigating legal registration and permits can pose challenges for solopreneurs. Seeking legal advice from professionals ensures compliance with local laws and regulations. Networking and Mentorship Building relationships through networking complicates maintaining a solo operation. Yet, connecting with business incubators or mentorship programs provides valuable insights and support. Solopreneurs benefit from sharing experiences and resources with others in the entrepreneurial community. Resource Allocation Managing multiple roles in your business leads to resource allocation issues. Solopreneurs often struggle with prioritizing tasks, impacting productivity and growth. Developing a clear business plan and utilizing automation tools helps streamline operations. Innovation and Adaptability Remaining innovative while adapting to market trends is essential for long-term success. Staying ahead requires understanding changes in customer preferences and competition. Solopreneurs must continuously innovate their product development to meet evolving needs while avoiding stagnation. By recognizing and addressing these challenges, you can create a more resilient business model capable of supporting your solopreneurial journey. Conclusion Embracing solopreneurship opens doors to endless possibilities. By exploring business ideas that resonate with your skills and passions, you can carve out a fulfilling career on your own terms. Remember that establishing a solid foundation through market research and a clear business plan is crucial for success. Stay proactive in your marketing efforts and leverage digital tools to streamline your operations. As you navigate the challenges of solopreneurship, keep adapting and innovating to stay ahead. With determination and the right strategies, you can build a thriving business that reflects your unique vision and leads to financial independence. Take that first step today and watch your entrepreneurial dreams unfold. Frequently Asked Questions What is solopreneurship? Solopreneurship is the practice of running a business as a single individual without co-founders or partners. It allows entrepreneurs to leverage their skills and interests, often through digital platforms, to create a flexible and sustainable career. What are some popular solopreneur business ideas? Popular solopreneur business ideas include freelancing, online coaching, consulting, e-commerce, and dropshipping. Each of these options allows individuals to capitalize on their expertise while working independently. How can I establish an online presence as a solopreneur? Establishing an online presence involves creating a professional website, engaging on social media platforms, and showcasing your work or services. Consistent branding and valuable content can help attract and retain clients. Why is a business plan important for solopreneurs? A business plan serves as a roadmap for your venture. It outlines goals, strategies, and financial projections, helping solopreneurs make informed decisions and stay focused on growth and sustainability. How can I identify my niche as a solopreneur? Identify your niche through thorough market research, which helps you understand client needs and competition. Tailor your offerings to meet those needs, enhancing your appeal and marketability. What funding options should solopreneurs consider? Solopreneurs can explore various funding options such as personal savings, grants, crowdfunding, or small business loans. Each option has its pros and cons, depending on the specific business needs and goals. What marketing strategies are effective for solopreneurs? Effective marketing strategies include leveraging social media for brand awareness, building an email list for direct engagement, and creating valuable content. These tactics help attract customers and enhance conversion rates. What tools can assist solopreneurs in business management? Solopreneurs can benefit from tools like Teachable for online courses, Shopify for e-commerce, and QuickBooks for financial management. Marketing tools like HubSpot and Mailchimp also aid in enhancing online visibility. What challenges do solopreneurs face? Common challenges include financial management, market research, establishing a marketing strategy, and navigating legal requirements. Recognizing these hurdles allows solopreneurs to develop strategies for overcoming them. How can networking benefit solopreneurs? Networking provides solopreneurs with opportunities to connect with peers, mentors, and potential clients. Building relationships through local business groups or online communities can lead to valuable support and growth. Image Via Envato This article, "Inspiring Solopreneur Business Ideas for Financial Independence and Personal Fulfillment" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

It doesn't mean much to anyone with a job, but summer's coming in quick, and only grade-grubbers are still paying attention in school. The other kids are wasting their time exactly how you'd expect: watching kitten body horror videos, discovering 20-year-old RPGs, and throwing bowling balls into helicopter blades. Here's what's shaping (and warping) young minds this week. The rise of terrifying AI kittens on YouTubeIf you have younger kids, summer can mean more screen time, and I wanted to check out what kids are watching when their guardian hands them that tablet, so I spent some time on YouTube looking at animated videos that seem geared to children. The place is lousy with algorithmically generated kitten torture videos where little cats with big eyes are injured, operated upon, beset by monsters, and otherwise horribly abused in videos like "Cat's Belly Contains Countless Worms!" and "Kitten Abused by it [sic] own mother Cat" and my personal favorite, "Kitten Belly has Spiders, Rats, Worms, Alien Parasites" (I'm a fan of Oxford commas.) Countless YouTube (and Instagram, and TiktTok) channels with names like Kittens Kitten, and QQ Meow churn out these videos by combining frequently searched keywords like "cute cat" or "kitten" with scenarios that are shocking or scary to children, like going to the doctor or being abused by a parent. Videos that get views, like "The betrayal of the cat father and the revenge plan of the kitten" (this has been viewed 72 million times in the last three months) or "The kitten suddenly encountered a mutated big-eyed school bus"(63 million views) are ripped off endlessly, and AI hones and iterates them into a nightmare feedback loop that children stare at for hours. It's not art made for kids. It's art made at kids. But on the other hand—whenever things can be boiled down to "won't someone, please, think of the children?" it's time to look a little deeper. Adults tend to view children's world through rose-colored glasses, but that's how we want childhood to be. In reality, children are nearly powerless in a world they can't understand or contextualize, so of course they're going to deal with their fears through art; that's why we have art. Well-meaning adults have spent decades sanitizing children's media, excising disturbing and horrific elements under the guise of protecting kids, but judging by the 19 million views of "Abusive Cat Father," kids clearly want it and, more importantly, they're getting something from it. Death, betrayal evil, horror, and abuse are time-honored staples of children's literature. Is there any theme more classic than "evil mother (or stepmother) abuses innocent child?" I only wish it wasn't all so poorly made. Grimm’s fairy tales and their ilk were written by talented people, not the kind of real-life ghouls who use AI to game YouTube's kids' video algorithm. I never had a problem with my own kid watching movies society said were too mature for him, but only if they were good. I draw the line at bad art. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion: Young gamers play old game As a greybeard from way back, I love when a new generation of nerds discovers something awesome from the past. On April 22, developer Bethesda surprised the video gaming world by stealth-releasing a 20-year-old role-playing game, Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. And the kids are into it; the nerdy ones, anyway. Some quality-of-life issues with the original game have been addressed, but the quirky, buggy, batshit Oblivion fun was left intact. They even left most of the glitches intact. I've been playing it since it was released, and it plays differently than modern games in the genre. There's less handholding and funneling players toward a specific experience. There's less of a feeling that a corporate board approved every decision and more of a feeling of freedom, and kids are into it. They're making memes and posting videos of funny glitches. It's like the old days. As RiceLife659 put it on Reddit, "Finally able to play Oblivion now and I’m in love. More in depth in terms of systems than Skyrim and the jank is hilarious. 20 hours in and every minute I wish I was born earlier." . I feel like saying, "gather 'round, young 'uns, and let me tell you the story of the cursed Oblivion horse armor..." What does "deriod" mean? The slang term "deriod" combines "dick" and "period" and is used to refer to a man's (hypothetical) period. Here's even more Gen Z and Gen Alpha slang, if you're interested. What are "0.5 GPA Activities?""0.5 GPA Activities" (or "0.3 GPA Activities, or (WHATEVER) GPA Activities") refers to videos that show what the kids who aren't gunning for class salutatorian are doing in school. The genesis was a video called "4.0 GPA Activities" in which supposedly smart band-kids balance things precariously. In response, less, um, accomplished students started posting videos of themselves doing things like making sculptures from the cafeteria food: stacking soda cans in lockers: intentionally shorting out their school-issued Chromebooks: and stealing fire extinquishers: It's the kind of trend that went from funny to a little harmful quickly, so check out these videos now, before TikTok bans the entire genre. Viral video of the week: Bowling Ball Vs 700kmh Helicopter Blades! Who Wins How can you not click a video called "Bowling Ball Vs 700kmh Helicopter Blades"? It's the kind of content we all need as summer starts to roll in. The bowling ball alone would have been enough, but the guys behind YouTube channel How Ridiculous also throw tomatoes, a hardhat, a phone, a baseball bat, a guy (a fake guy, anyway) and more through the spinning blades of a chopper. It's all presented in super slow motion: exactly how you want to watch things get chopped apart by a helicopter propeller. As for the video's dramatic question, you might assume the answer is obvious: Blades win. But life is full of surprises. That’s why we do science. View the full article

Rite Aid is plotting an immediate wind-down of operations at dozens of additional locations as it scrambles this week to sell off its pharmacy assets and retail operations to potential bidders. The drugstore chain, which last week sought Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection for a second time, has marked 68 locations in seven states for closure, meaning it wants to promptly start the process of going-out-of-business sales. The list was disclosed in a filing on Friday with the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey. Interested parties have until May 19 to object to the additional closings, according to the filing. Fast Company has reached out to Rite Aid for comment. The move comes after Rite Aid identified 47 locations that would initially close, noting in a court filing earlier last week that it saw “little or no value” in keeping the stores open as it moves through the bankruptcy process. Deadlines approaching for potential bidders In a statement last week, Rite Aid CEO said the company has seen “meaningful interest” from potential buyers at the local and regional level. Rite Aid has stressed that it is seeking to minimize the impact on its customers and employees by soliciting bids from pharmacy companies that could acquire its prescription files, retail locations, or both. However, time is running out. According to court documents, potential bidders for Rite Aid’s pharmacy assets have until tomorrow to submit a bid. Although the deadline could be extended, Rite Aid has expressed concern about customer attrition during a drawn-out sale process, which could significantly diminish the value of its assets. Ultimately every Rite Aid location will either close or be sold to another owner. For now, expect the 68 locations listed below to close quickly: California 3860 SEPULVEDA BOULEVARD TORRANCE CA 90505 5075 OLIVEHURST AVENUE OLIVEHURST CA 95961 New Hampshire 360 SUMMER STREET BRISTOL NH 03222 41 CARROLL STREET PITTSFIELD NH 03263 New York 9 BROAD STREET SALAMANCA NY 14779 1070 GENESEE STREET BUFFALO NY 14211 Oregon 728 SOUTH WEST 4TH AVENUE ONTARIO OR 97914 4041 NW LOGAN ROAD LINCOLN CITY OR 97367 2049 WEST CASCADE AVENUE HOOD RIVER OR 97031 178 WEST ELLENDALE AVENUE DALLAS OR 97338 1217 CAMPBELL STREET BAKER CITY OR 97814 44 MICHIGAN AVENUE NE BANDON OR 97411 313 SOUTH ROOSEVELT DRIVE SEASIDE OR 97138 626 MCCLAINE ST SILVERTON OR 97381 Pennsylvania 805 HUNTINGDON PIKE HUNTINGDON VALLEY PA 19006 6 BOCHICCHIO BOULEVARD MOSCOW PA 18444 601 DELAWARE AVENUE PALMERTON PA 18071 315 WEST FOURTH STREET QUARRYVILLE PA 17566 2201 WEST ALLEGHENY AVE. PHILADELPHIA PA 19132 10 NEWPORT PLAZA NEWPORT PA 17074 801 GROW AVENUE MONTROSE PA 18801 2503-05 WELSH ROAD PHILADELPHIA PA 19114 5 FRIENDLY DRIVE DUNCANNON PA 17020 260 WEST LEHIGH AVENUE #80 PHILADELPHIA PA 19133 3145 MAIN STREET MORGANTOWN PA 19543 205 CENTER STREET TAMAQUA PA 18252 9635 WILLIAM PENN HIGHWAY HUNTINGDON PA 16652 15 WEST CENTRE STREET MAHANOY CITY PA 17948 4530 NORTH 5TH STREET PHILADELPHIA PA 19140 101 EAST SHIRLEY STREET MT UNION PA 17066 4390 RICHMOND STREET PHILADELPHIA PA 19137 5201 SPRING ROAD SUITE 6 SHERMANS DALE PA 17090 126 W. MAIN STREET GROVE CITY PA 16127 111 NORTH PLAZA APOLLO PA 15613 5214-30 BALTIMORE AVENUE PHILADELPHIA PA 19143 1941 DERRY STREET HARRISBURG PA 17104 5400 RISING SUN AVENUE PHILADELPHIA PA 19120 901 S SAINT MARYS STREET SAINT MARYS PA 15857 200 RESORT PLAZA DRIVE BLAIRSVILLE PA 15717 630 MAIN ST. PORTAGE PA 15946 207 ROUTE 6 WEST COUDERSPORT PA 16915 838 FIFTH AVENUE FORD CITY PA 16226 620 E ALLEGHENY AVENUE EMPORIUM PA 15834 100 SOUTH THIRD STREET CONNEAUT LAKE PA 16316 200 MEMORIAL BLVD. CONNELLSVILLE PA 15425 59 NORTH MAIN STREET PORT ALLEGANY PA 16743 610 BROAD STREET NEW BETHLEHEM PA 16242 1340 MAIN STREET BURGETTSTOWN PA 150 1365 LOGAN AVENUE TYRONE PA 16686 1212 SECOND STREET CRESSON PA 16630 201 WEST MAHONING STREET PUNXSUTAWNEY PA 15767 165 BUTLER ROAD KITTANNING PA 16201 100 FRANKLIN STREET MERCER PA 16137 1222 BROWNSVILLE RD PITTSBURGH PA 15210 521 NORTH FRALEY STREET KANE PA 16735 3939 BUTLER STREET PITTSBURGH PA 15201 1 EAST HIGH STREET UNION CITY PA 16438 2150 BROWNSVILLE RD STE120 PITTSBURGH PA 15210 Virginia 115 BRUNSWICK SQUARE COURT LAWRENCEVILLE VA 23868 144 SCOTTSVILLE CENTER SCOTTSVILLE VA 24590 4171 LEE JACKSON HWY, STE 113 GREENVILLE VA 24440 200 AUGUSTA AVENUE GROTTOES VA 24441 Washington 27000 MILLER BAY RD NE KINGSTON WA 98346 909 EAST YELM AVENUE YELM WA 98597 608 W. STANLEY STREET GRANITE FALLS WA 98252 609 OMACHE DRIVE OMAK WA 98841 35013 SNOQUALMIE PKWY SNOQUALMIE WA 98065 1517 COMMERCIAL AVE. ANACORTES WA 98221 View the full article

When we think of summer bags, we tend to think of big totes we can carry to the beach or a farmers market. But this year, bag designers are reimagining the summer staple as a piece of art you can carry around with you. They’re taking the seasonal materials we’re used to seeing—raffia, straw, wicker—and transforming them into beautiful, interesting shapes. They’re meant to do more than hold your phone; they’re designed to give you pleasure and start conversations. Here are our favorite sculptural bags of the season. Camilla Clutch Cult Gaia, $298 Cult Gaia first made a name for itself with a half-moon-shaped bamboo Ark bag, which went viral. Since then, even as the label has expanded to include ready-to-wear and fragrances, it is best known for its whimsical statement bags. This summer, it launches many creative designs, including a bag that doubles as a backgammon board, and a clutch in the form of a golden apple. The Camilla clutch is perhaps the one that feels most like summer. Made from abaca, a kind of hemp, it’s inspired by a horse conch shell and has a long tassel. It’s sure to be a conversation piece when you’re at a cocktail or pool party, or even at a beachside wedding. The Cesi Shopper Poolside, $315 As the brand’s name suggests, Poolside specializes in summer bags, tailor-made to pair with resortwear. And while it’s most famous for its totes—which can be personalized with monograms or witty phrases—it also has many sculptural pieces that look like shells and fish. The Cesi bag stands out for combining beauty and functionality. Made of raffia, with an acrylic tortoise shell chain strap, it’s spacious enough to stash your phone and even a small book. It can be dressed up for parties, but it can also carry you through your day. The Leila Basket Sézane, $275 The French label Sézane is famous for its large raffia basket bag, inspired by totes that people carry to the farmers market. But this year, it’s added more interesting silhouettes to its collection. If you feel like shell-based bags are a little too on the nose, consider the Leila Basket, which is made of raffia and comes in two shades, natural and red. The delicate flower design gives it a feminine touch, but the bag is also practical, with durable woven handles that can bear some weight. Clamshell Clutch Vineyard Vines, $148 Vineyard Vines’s clamshell bag is perhaps the most versatile of the lot. While it’s compact, with just enough space for your phone and wallet, you can carry it in several different ways: as a clutch, with a chunky wicker handle, and with the crossbody strap. This flexibility means you can utilize it for many different occasions, from elegant dinner parties to busy days out. Color-Blocked Shopper Eileen Fisher, $168 This design is unlike the others. But in case you’re not the kind of person who wants to carry an enormous shell or flower-shaped bag around with you, you might go for this tote, which is designed with clean lines and an interesting silhouette. It’s one of Eileen Fisher’s new offerings, made in collaboration with Mar y Sol, which makes raffia bags in Madagascar, supporting the work of local artisans. The bags in this collaboration are chic and simple, in keeping with Eileen Fisher’s minimalist aesthetic, but they are anything but boring. This one’s color-blocked design makes it a standout as it hangs elegantly from your shoulder. View the full article

President Donald The President is ready to accept a luxury Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet as a gift from the ruling family of Qatar during his trip to the Middle East this coming week, and U.S. officials say it could be converted into a potential presidential aircraft. The Qatari government said a final decision hadn’t been made. Still, The President defended the idea — what would amount to a president accepting an astonishingly valuable gift from a foreign government — as a fiscally smart move for the country. “So the fact that the Defense Department is getting a GIFT, FREE OF CHARGE, of a 747 aircraft to replace the 40 year old Air Force One, temporarily, in a very public and transparent transaction, so bothers the Crooked Democrats that they insist we pay, TOP DOLLAR, for the plane,” The President posted on his social media site on Sunday night. “Anybody can do that!” ABC News reported that The President will use the aircraft as his presidential plane until shortly before he leaves office in January 2029, when ownership will be transferred to the foundation overseeing his yet-to-be-built presidential library. The gift was expected to be announced when The President visits Qatar, according to ABC’s report, as part of a trip that also includes stops in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, the first extended foreign travel of his second term. Before The President’s post The Presidenteting the idea, Ali Al-Ansari, Qatar’s media attaché, said in a statement that the “possible transfer of an aircraft for temporary use as Air Force One is currently under consideration between Qatar’s Ministry of Defense and the US Department of Defense.” “But the matter remains under review by the respective legal departments, and no decision has been made,” the statement added. Meanwhile, administration officials, anticipating ethics concerns, have prepared an analysis arguing that accepting the plane would be legal, according to ABC. The Constitution’s Emoluments Clause bars anyone holding government office from accepting any present, emolument, office or title from any “King, Prince, or foreign State,” without congressional consent. One expert on government ethics, Kathleen Clark of the Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, accused The President of being “committed to exploiting the federal government’s power, not on behalf of policy goals, but for amassing personal wealth.” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer poked fun at The President’s “America first” political slogan. “Nothing says ‘America First’ like Air Force One, brought to you by Qatar,” the New York Democrat said in a statement. “It’s not just bribery, it’s premium foreign influence with extra legroom.” Even some conservatives expressed dismay online, noting that an aircraft being offered by a foreign government could present security risks if used by a U.S. president. Air Force One is a modified Boeing 747. Two exist, and the president flies on both, which are more than 30 years old. Boeing Inc. has the contract to produce updated versions, but delivery has been delayed while the company has lost billions of dollars on the project. The President intends to convert the Qatari aircraft into a plane he can fly on as president, with the Air Force planning to add secure communications and other classified elements to it. But it will still have more limited capabilities than the existing planes that were built to serve as Air Force One, as well as two other aircraft currently under construction, according to a former U.S. official. The official was briefed about the plane and spoke Sunday on the condition of anonymity to discuss plans that have not yet been made public. The existing planes used as Air Force One are heavily modified with survivability capabilities for the president for a range of contingencies, including radiation shielding and antimissile technology. They also include a variety of communications systems to allow the president to remain in contact with the military and issue orders from anywhere in the world. The official told The Associated Press that it would be possible to quickly add some countermeasures and communications systems to the Qatari plane, but that it would be less capable than the existing Air Force One aircraft or long-delayed replacements. Neither the Qatari plane nor the upcoming VC-25B aircraft will have the air-to-air refueling capabilities of the current VC-25A aircraft, which is the one the president currently flies on, the official said. Jordan Libowitz, communications director for the advocacy group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, called such a gift “unprecedented.” “The totality of gifts given to a president over their term doesn’t get close to this level,” Libowitz said, adding, “You have to ask, if he makes foreign policy — especially in regards to the Middle East — how much is he being influenced by his gifts and his business deals.” ABC said the new plane is similar to a 13-year-old Boeing aircraft The President toured in February, while it was parked at Palm Beach International Airport and he was spending the weekend at his Mar-a-Lago club. The President faced lawsuits for violating the Emoluments Clause during his first term, but those were ended by the Supreme Court in 2021, which found the cases moot because the Republican had left office. The President’s family business, the The President Organization, which is now largely run by his sons, Donald The President Jr. and Eric The President, has vast and growing interests in the Middle East. That includes a new deal to build a luxury golf resort in Qatar, partnering with Qatari Diar, a real estate company backed by that country’s sovereign wealth fund. Qatar, which is ruled by the Al Thani family, is home to the state-owned airline Qatar Airways. The country also has worked to have a close relationship to The President after he apparently backed a boycott of Doha by four Arab nations in his first term. The President later in his term applauded Qatar. Administration officials have brushed off concerns about the president’s policy interests blurring with family’s business profits. They note that The President’s assets are in a trust managed by his children and that a voluntary ethics agreement released by the The President Organization in January bars the company from striking deals directly with foreign governments. But that same agreement allows deals with private companies abroad. That is a departure from The President’s first term, when the organization released an ethics pact prohibiting both foreign government and foreign company deals. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, when asked Friday if the president might meet with people who have ties to his family’s business, said it was “ridiculous” to suggest The President “is doing anything for his own benefit.” Associated Press writer Christine Fernando in Chicago and Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, contributed to this report. —Zeke Miller and Will Weissert, Associated Press 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’ve been waiting for the right time to upgrade your Apple Watch, the Series 10 has quietly become one of the best-value picks around. It launched in September and has already dropped to $299 on Amazon—that’s $100 off the $399 sticker price. Apple Watch Series 10 GPS 42mm Smartwatch (Rose Gold, Plum Sports Loop) $299.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $399.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal Get Deal $299.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $399.00 Save $100.00 This deal is for the 42mm GPS model with a Rose Gold Aluminum case and Plum Sport Loop, and according to price trackers, it’s the lowest price it's hit so far. This is likely the Apple Watch sweet spot for most users, especially those still hanging onto an older SE model. And while it still shares some DNA with the Series 9, there are enough subtle upgrades to make it a solid step up. This Lifehacker review even called it the best Apple Watch for most people, which checks out considering how many core features it brings without fully diving into the Ultra pricing zone. Learn more about how it stacks up against other flagship smartwatches in our comparison post here. You’re getting a thinner design and a slightly larger OLED display, which might not sound like a game changer—but does make everything feel roomier and more responsive. Apple also improved audio playback, so now you can actually listen to Spotify or podcasts straight from the watch’s speakers (no AirPods needed in a pinch). The updated sleep tracking also got smarter, with the watch nudging you if it notices signs of sleep apnea. That’s something you didn’t get before unless you were splurging on the Apple Watch Ultra. Same with the new depth and water temperature sensors—they now auto-activate underwater, a nice addition for swimmers or divers, notes this PCMag review. The Vitals app with Watch OS 11 gives you an energy score, too, which is basically a daily report card for your body based on multiple health metrics. That said, it’s not perfect. The blood oxygen sensor still hasn’t made a return, which might be a letdown for folks who used it regularly on older models. Battery life stays in the 18–36 hour range, depending on how many features you have running. It’s good enough for a day or so, but it’s not exactly a multi-day performer. Still, the Series 10 earned PCMag’s Editor’s Choice and their Best Apple Smartwatch of the Year 2024 award, which says something. If you’re not chasing Ultra-level features but want something smarter, faster, and more capable than the SE, this is worth considering, especially now that it’s hit its lowest price. View the full article

Key Takeaways Streamlined Social Media Monitoring: Talkwalker Quick Search simplifies the monitoring of social media platforms, providing instant access to valuable insights that help improve brand engagement and strategy. Real-Time Data Access: Gain immediate insights into consumer interactions and trending topics across various social media platforms, allowing for quick responses to customer feedback and conversations. User-Friendly Interface: The tool is designed for small business owners without technical expertise, enabling efficient use of social media analytics and campaign management. Advanced Filtering Capabilities: Customize search results with advanced filters by sentiment, media type, country, or language, helping to target the right audience effectively. Comprehensive Analytics: Utilize detailed analytics for informed decision-making, including tracking user-generated content, engagement rates, and trends to optimize social media strategies. Competitive Edge: With features such as multi-brand comparison and extensive coverage, Talkwalker Quick Search offers small businesses essential tools to stay ahead of competitors in social media marketing. In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, staying ahead of the competition means having the right tools at your fingertips. Talkwalker Quick Search is designed to streamline your social media and online monitoring, giving you instant access to valuable insights. This powerful tool transforms the way you track trends, analyze brand sentiment, and engage with your audience. Imagine effortlessly sifting through massive amounts of data to uncover what matters most to your brand. With Talkwalker Quick Search, you can do just that. Whether you’re a marketer looking to enhance your campaigns or a business owner wanting to understand customer feedback, this tool equips you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions and drive success. Dive in and discover how it can revolutionize your approach to online monitoring and analytics. Overview of Talkwalker Quick Search Talkwalker Quick Search serves as a powerful tool for small businesses seeking to enhance their social media strategy. This tool streamlines the process of social media monitoring by providing immediate access to insights across various platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok. You can efficiently track social media trends, analyze brand sentiment, and engage with your audience in real time. Quick Search simplifies the sifting through large data sets, allowing you to focus on actionable insights that drive your social media marketing efforts. With the ability to discover relevant hashtags and popular content, you enhance your brand awareness and foster improved community management. Talkwalker Quick Search supports content creation by enabling you to see what resonates with your target audience. By analyzing user-generated content alongside your own posts, you refine your storytelling techniques and maintain brand consistency. The platform also aids in audience targeting for social media ads, helping you optimize both paid and organic growth strategies. Incorporating this tool into your social media campaigns improves your engagement rate and boosts social media followers. Quick Search makes it easier to schedule posts and manage your content calendar effectively, ensuring you stay on top of customer interaction and feedback. Key Features Talkwalker Quick Search offers powerful features that enhance social media monitoring for small businesses. The tool provides instant access to relevant insights, streamlining your social media strategy and improving engagement. Advanced Filters Quick Search includes advanced filters that let you customize your search results. You can narrow down by sentiment, media types, countries, or languages, enabling precise targeting for your social media posts. This capability enhances your brand awareness, ensuring that you focus on relevant trends that resonate with your audience on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok. Real-Time Data Access With Quick Search, you gain real-time data access. Monitor how consumers interact with your brand across various social media platforms as it happens. This feature highlights trending topics and sentiment analysis, helping you react quickly to emerging social media trends. Staying updated on customer feedback and conversations enhances your content marketing efforts and informs your community management strategies. User-Friendly Interface The user-friendly interface of Quick Search makes it suitable for small business owners without technical expertise. You log in and start generating results immediately, streamlining your social media campaigns. The AI Query Builder helps you craft detailed and relevant search queries, optimizing your social media analytics. This ease of use allows you to focus on social media growth and content sharing, ensuring your brand voice remains consistent across all channels. Benefits of Using Talkwalker Quick Search Talkwalker Quick Search delivers significant advantages for small businesses engaging in social media marketing. With its robust features, you can leverage real-time data to enhance your online presence and optimize your social media strategy. Enhanced Insights Talkwalker Quick Search provides real-time trend research that keeps you updated on current social media trends across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok. You can track user-generated content, hashtags, and community interactions, gaining valuable insights into your audience’s preferences. This comprehensive data coverage allows you to analyze brand sentiment effectively and adjust your campaign strategies based on concrete information. Improved Decision Making Talkwalker Quick Search equips you with detailed analytics that supports informed decision-making. The tool’s capabilities encompass keyword clouds, themes, emojis, and event tracking, all essential for refining your content creation and community management efforts. By having access to conversation data and customer feedback, you can identify opportunities for influencer partnerships and enhance your brand voice across various social media platforms. Immediate access to analytics aids in optimizing social media posts, increasing engagement rates, and maximizing the ROI of your paid ads and organic growth strategies. Comparing Talkwalker Quick Search to Competitors Evaluating Talkwalker Quick Search against its competitors reveals several strengths tailored for your small business social media needs. Key features set it apart, making it an essential tool for social media marketing. Extensive Coverage: Talkwalker Quick Search covers a broad range of social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok. Unlike some competitors, it provides real-time insights from news sites, blogs, and forums. This extensive scope allows you to gauge brand awareness comprehensively across different media types, ensuring your social media strategy remains informed. Multi-Brand Comparison: While many tools offer brand monitoring, Talkwalker allows you to compare up to five brands at a time. You can analyze sentiment, engagement, and audience demographics with accuracy rates around 90%. This capability offers a competitive edge, particularly in understanding your positioning against competitors in social media campaigns. Keyword and Trend Analysis: Talkwalker Quick Search excels in identifying trending keywords and phrases, essential for content creation. You can optimize your social media posts and marketing strategies based on insights that resonate with your audience. Competitors may lack this depth, limiting your ability to stay relevant in a fast-paced environment. Real-Time Monitoring: Quick Search enables real-time monitoring of brand mentions and user-generated content. Whether managing customer interaction during a crisis or taking advantage of immediate feedback, this functionality is unmatched by many tools. Competitors may provide delayed reporting, hindering your ability to engage effectively. User-Friendly Interface: Talkwalker boasts a user-friendly interface that allows you, even without technical expertise, to navigate social media analytics seamlessly. Competitors often involve complex setups and steep learning curves, making it challenging for small business owners to focus on social media growth. AI Query Builder: Crafting detailed search queries simplifies your analytics process. The AI Query Builder streamlines the way you gather insights, ensuring consistent brand voice and storytelling across platforms. Other tools may not provide such an intuitive approach, leading to missed opportunities in your social media optimization efforts. With these features, Talkwalker Quick Search stands out as a powerful ally in your pursuit of improved online presence and social media engagement. Its robust capabilities position you to enhance your social media ROI effectively, ultimately driving growth and success for your small business. Conclusion Embracing Talkwalker Quick Search can transform your social media strategy. With its powerful features and real-time insights, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of your audience and market trends. This tool not only streamlines monitoring but also enhances your content creation and community management efforts. By utilizing advanced filters and analytics, you can make informed decisions that drive engagement and growth. Whether you’re a small business or a seasoned marketer, Talkwalker Quick Search equips you with the tools needed to stand out in a crowded digital landscape. Start leveraging its capabilities today and watch your social media presence soar. Frequently Asked Questions What is Talkwalker Quick Search? Talkwalker Quick Search is a digital tool designed for social media and online monitoring that provides instant access to valuable insights. It helps users track trends, analyze brand sentiment, and engage with their audience efficiently. How does Talkwalker Quick Search benefit small businesses? This tool streamlines social media monitoring, providing immediate insights across various platforms. It helps small businesses improve their social media strategies by analyzing audience engagement and refining content to resonate with their target market. What key features does Talkwalker Quick Search offer? Talkwalker Quick Search includes advanced filters for custom searches, real-time data access, and a user-friendly interface. Its AI Query Builder helps craft detailed search queries, making it effective for social media analytics. Can Talkwalker Quick Search assist with content creation? Yes, it aids in content creation by revealing trends and audience preferences, helping businesses refine their storytelling techniques while maintaining brand consistency across platforms. How does Talkwalker Quick Search support audience targeting? The tool optimizes both paid and organic growth strategies by analyzing user interactions and community trends, enabling businesses to target their audience more effectively in social media ads. Is Talkwalker Quick Search user-friendly for non-technical users? Absolutely! Its intuitive interface makes it accessible for small business owners without technical expertise, allowing them to generate results quickly for social media growth. What makes Talkwalker Quick Search stand out from competitors? Talkwalker offers extensive coverage, real-time insights, and multi-brand comparisons. Its focus on keyword and trend analysis, along with user-friendly features, makes it particularly beneficial for small businesses looking to enhance their online presence. Image Via Envato This article, "Unlock Success with Talkwalker Quick Search: Boost Your Social Media Strategy Today" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Streamlined Social Media Monitoring: Talkwalker Quick Search simplifies the monitoring of social media platforms, providing instant access to valuable insights that help improve brand engagement and strategy. Real-Time Data Access: Gain immediate insights into consumer interactions and trending topics across various social media platforms, allowing for quick responses to customer feedback and conversations. User-Friendly Interface: The tool is designed for small business owners without technical expertise, enabling efficient use of social media analytics and campaign management. Advanced Filtering Capabilities: Customize search results with advanced filters by sentiment, media type, country, or language, helping to target the right audience effectively. Comprehensive Analytics: Utilize detailed analytics for informed decision-making, including tracking user-generated content, engagement rates, and trends to optimize social media strategies. Competitive Edge: With features such as multi-brand comparison and extensive coverage, Talkwalker Quick Search offers small businesses essential tools to stay ahead of competitors in social media marketing. In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, staying ahead of the competition means having the right tools at your fingertips. Talkwalker Quick Search is designed to streamline your social media and online monitoring, giving you instant access to valuable insights. This powerful tool transforms the way you track trends, analyze brand sentiment, and engage with your audience. Imagine effortlessly sifting through massive amounts of data to uncover what matters most to your brand. With Talkwalker Quick Search, you can do just that. Whether you’re a marketer looking to enhance your campaigns or a business owner wanting to understand customer feedback, this tool equips you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions and drive success. Dive in and discover how it can revolutionize your approach to online monitoring and analytics. Overview of Talkwalker Quick Search Talkwalker Quick Search serves as a powerful tool for small businesses seeking to enhance their social media strategy. This tool streamlines the process of social media monitoring by providing immediate access to insights across various platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok. You can efficiently track social media trends, analyze brand sentiment, and engage with your audience in real time. Quick Search simplifies the sifting through large data sets, allowing you to focus on actionable insights that drive your social media marketing efforts. With the ability to discover relevant hashtags and popular content, you enhance your brand awareness and foster improved community management. Talkwalker Quick Search supports content creation by enabling you to see what resonates with your target audience. By analyzing user-generated content alongside your own posts, you refine your storytelling techniques and maintain brand consistency. The platform also aids in audience targeting for social media ads, helping you optimize both paid and organic growth strategies. Incorporating this tool into your social media campaigns improves your engagement rate and boosts social media followers. Quick Search makes it easier to schedule posts and manage your content calendar effectively, ensuring you stay on top of customer interaction and feedback. Key Features Talkwalker Quick Search offers powerful features that enhance social media monitoring for small businesses. The tool provides instant access to relevant insights, streamlining your social media strategy and improving engagement. Advanced Filters Quick Search includes advanced filters that let you customize your search results. You can narrow down by sentiment, media types, countries, or languages, enabling precise targeting for your social media posts. This capability enhances your brand awareness, ensuring that you focus on relevant trends that resonate with your audience on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok. Real-Time Data Access With Quick Search, you gain real-time data access. Monitor how consumers interact with your brand across various social media platforms as it happens. This feature highlights trending topics and sentiment analysis, helping you react quickly to emerging social media trends. Staying updated on customer feedback and conversations enhances your content marketing efforts and informs your community management strategies. User-Friendly Interface The user-friendly interface of Quick Search makes it suitable for small business owners without technical expertise. You log in and start generating results immediately, streamlining your social media campaigns. The AI Query Builder helps you craft detailed and relevant search queries, optimizing your social media analytics. This ease of use allows you to focus on social media growth and content sharing, ensuring your brand voice remains consistent across all channels. Benefits of Using Talkwalker Quick Search Talkwalker Quick Search delivers significant advantages for small businesses engaging in social media marketing. With its robust features, you can leverage real-time data to enhance your online presence and optimize your social media strategy. Enhanced Insights Talkwalker Quick Search provides real-time trend research that keeps you updated on current social media trends across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok. You can track user-generated content, hashtags, and community interactions, gaining valuable insights into your audience’s preferences. This comprehensive data coverage allows you to analyze brand sentiment effectively and adjust your campaign strategies based on concrete information. Improved Decision Making Talkwalker Quick Search equips you with detailed analytics that supports informed decision-making. The tool’s capabilities encompass keyword clouds, themes, emojis, and event tracking, all essential for refining your content creation and community management efforts. By having access to conversation data and customer feedback, you can identify opportunities for influencer partnerships and enhance your brand voice across various social media platforms. Immediate access to analytics aids in optimizing social media posts, increasing engagement rates, and maximizing the ROI of your paid ads and organic growth strategies. Comparing Talkwalker Quick Search to Competitors Evaluating Talkwalker Quick Search against its competitors reveals several strengths tailored for your small business social media needs. Key features set it apart, making it an essential tool for social media marketing. Extensive Coverage: Talkwalker Quick Search covers a broad range of social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok. Unlike some competitors, it provides real-time insights from news sites, blogs, and forums. This extensive scope allows you to gauge brand awareness comprehensively across different media types, ensuring your social media strategy remains informed. Multi-Brand Comparison: While many tools offer brand monitoring, Talkwalker allows you to compare up to five brands at a time. You can analyze sentiment, engagement, and audience demographics with accuracy rates around 90%. This capability offers a competitive edge, particularly in understanding your positioning against competitors in social media campaigns. Keyword and Trend Analysis: Talkwalker Quick Search excels in identifying trending keywords and phrases, essential for content creation. You can optimize your social media posts and marketing strategies based on insights that resonate with your audience. Competitors may lack this depth, limiting your ability to stay relevant in a fast-paced environment. Real-Time Monitoring: Quick Search enables real-time monitoring of brand mentions and user-generated content. Whether managing customer interaction during a crisis or taking advantage of immediate feedback, this functionality is unmatched by many tools. Competitors may provide delayed reporting, hindering your ability to engage effectively. User-Friendly Interface: Talkwalker boasts a user-friendly interface that allows you, even without technical expertise, to navigate social media analytics seamlessly. Competitors often involve complex setups and steep learning curves, making it challenging for small business owners to focus on social media growth. AI Query Builder: Crafting detailed search queries simplifies your analytics process. The AI Query Builder streamlines the way you gather insights, ensuring consistent brand voice and storytelling across platforms. Other tools may not provide such an intuitive approach, leading to missed opportunities in your social media optimization efforts. With these features, Talkwalker Quick Search stands out as a powerful ally in your pursuit of improved online presence and social media engagement. Its robust capabilities position you to enhance your social media ROI effectively, ultimately driving growth and success for your small business. Conclusion Embracing Talkwalker Quick Search can transform your social media strategy. With its powerful features and real-time insights, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of your audience and market trends. This tool not only streamlines monitoring but also enhances your content creation and community management efforts. By utilizing advanced filters and analytics, you can make informed decisions that drive engagement and growth. Whether you’re a small business or a seasoned marketer, Talkwalker Quick Search equips you with the tools needed to stand out in a crowded digital landscape. Start leveraging its capabilities today and watch your social media presence soar. Frequently Asked Questions What is Talkwalker Quick Search? Talkwalker Quick Search is a digital tool designed for social media and online monitoring that provides instant access to valuable insights. It helps users track trends, analyze brand sentiment, and engage with their audience efficiently. How does Talkwalker Quick Search benefit small businesses? This tool streamlines social media monitoring, providing immediate insights across various platforms. It helps small businesses improve their social media strategies by analyzing audience engagement and refining content to resonate with their target market. What key features does Talkwalker Quick Search offer? Talkwalker Quick Search includes advanced filters for custom searches, real-time data access, and a user-friendly interface. Its AI Query Builder helps craft detailed search queries, making it effective for social media analytics. Can Talkwalker Quick Search assist with content creation? Yes, it aids in content creation by revealing trends and audience preferences, helping businesses refine their storytelling techniques while maintaining brand consistency across platforms. How does Talkwalker Quick Search support audience targeting? The tool optimizes both paid and organic growth strategies by analyzing user interactions and community trends, enabling businesses to target their audience more effectively in social media ads. Is Talkwalker Quick Search user-friendly for non-technical users? Absolutely! Its intuitive interface makes it accessible for small business owners without technical expertise, allowing them to generate results quickly for social media growth. What makes Talkwalker Quick Search stand out from competitors? Talkwalker offers extensive coverage, real-time insights, and multi-brand comparisons. Its focus on keyword and trend analysis, along with user-friendly features, makes it particularly beneficial for small businesses looking to enhance their online presence. Image Via Envato This article, "Unlock Success with Talkwalker Quick Search: Boost Your Social Media Strategy Today" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

While apples and broccoli have become basic—constantly on the grocery store shelves year-round—rhubarb is a vegetable unicorn. It only appears for a very short and magical window. I'll spot it in the market for maybe a month and before I know it, I’ve missed it. That’s why I buy bundles of it when I do happen to catch it, and I get right to work. Not cooking it down in a pot with a cup of sugar, no: My favorite way to prepare rhubarb for pies and cakes is roasting. Roasting keeps things from getting soggyMy first time working with rhubarb was right out of culinary school, making dozens of miniature strawberry and rhubarb tarts. It was actually my first time eating it too. We would roast the rhubarb together with strawberries to make these tarts; the filling tasted like nature’s sour candy. I was hooked on the stuff and I assumed all rhubarb desserts would have the same bright pink shade and puckering bite as those tarts. This was not the case. I’ve eaten some soggy rhubarb cakes and mushy pies since then, and I’ve wondered why rhubarb could be giving everyone so much trouble. Upon talking to a friend recently, I realized that a lot of folks are cooking their precious spring crop in pots, essentially making compotes or jams, and then adding them to cakes and pies. While still delicious, cooking rhubarb this way leads to color loss (muted pinks and browns) and, because it doesn’t have much natural pectin, it turns a bit gloopy. But you can avoid that fate with a simple, and relatively quick, roast in the oven. How to roast rhubarbThere are a few different ways to do it depending on your preference. Open roastingMy favorite way, and the same way we did it in the bakery, is to chop up rhubarb into half-inch to full inch chunks, and add them to a bowl with cut strawberries. Add a couple tablespoons of sugar and toss it all together. (You can do this without the berries too.) Pour this mixture straight onto a baking pan and spread it out into a single layer. Bake this for 20 to 25 minutes at 350°F, or until the strawberries and rhubarb have little puddles of juice around them and slightly browned edges. Allow them to cool completely before scraping them off. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann Covered roastingToss chopped rhubarb with sugar again, but this time, pour it all into a casserole dish or another type of deep baking dish. Cover the top with foil and bake for 20 minutes at 350°F. Allow the dish to cool with the foil in place. After removing the foil, the rhubarb is still bright pink and ready to use. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann I prefer the open roasting method because this allows some of the moisture to escape, and so the flavors become more concentrated. The lack of moisture also allows the bright pink color to stay true, and even deepen, rather than leech away into the moisture. Personally, I think the biggest boon of this method is that the chunks of rhubarb do not turn to absolute slush. The plant cooks and softens within but also dries out slightly on the edges, creating a bit of support. You can toss the bits into a pie or cake batter and still discern the pieces on the other side. Whether or not you decide to roast, rhubarb is in season right now, so make the most of this festive plant while you can. View the full article

U.S. and Chinese officials said Monday they had reached a deal to roll back most of their recent tariffs and call a 90-day truce in their trade war for more talks on resolving their trade disputes. Stock markets rose sharply as the globe’s two major economic powers took a step back from a clash that has unsettled the global economy. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the U.S. agreed to drop its 145% tariff rate on Chinese goods by 115 percentage points to 30%, while China agreed to lower its rate on U.S. goods by the same amount to 10%. Greer and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the tariff reductions at a news conference in Geneva. The two officials struck a positive tone as they said the two sides had set up consultations to continue discussing their trade issues. Bessent said at the news briefing after two days of talks that the high tariff levels would have amounted to a complete blockage of each sides goods, an outcome neither side wants. “The consensus from both delegations this weekend is neither side wants a decoupling,” Bessent said. “And what had occurred with these very high tariff … was an embargo, the equivalent of an embargo. And neither side wants that. We do want trade.” “We want more balanced trade. And I think that both sides are committed to achieving that.” The delegations, escorted around town and guarded by scores of Swiss police, met for at least a dozen hours on both days of the weekend at sun-baked 17th-century villa that serves as the official residence of the Swiss ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva. At times, the delegation leaders broke away from their staffs and settled into sofas on the villa’s patios overlooking Lake Geneva, helping deepen personal ties in the effort to reach a much-sought deal. China’s Commerce Ministry said the two sides agreed to cancel 91% in tariffs on each other’s goods and suspend another 24% in tariffs for 90 days, bringing the total reduction to 115 percentage points. The ministry called the agreement an important step for the resolution of the two countries’ differences and said it lays the foundation for further cooperation. “This initiative aligns with the expectations of producers and consumers in both countries and serves the interests of both nations as well as the common interests of the world,” a ministry statement said. China hopes the U.S will stop “the erroneous practice of unilateral tariff hikes” and work with China to safeguard the development of their economic and trade relations, injecting more certainty and stability into the global economy, the ministry said. The joint statement issued by the two countries said China also agreed to suspend or remove other measures it has taken since April 2 in response to the U.S. tariffs. China has increased export controls on rare earths including some critical to the defense industry and added more American companies to its export control and unreliable entity lists, restricting their business with and in China. The full impact on the complicated tariffs and other trade penalties enacted by Washington and Beijing remains unclear. And much depends on whether they will find ways to bridge longstanding differences during the 90-day suspension. But investors rejoiced as trade envoys from the world’s two biggest economies blinked, finding ways to pull back from potentially massive disruptions to world trade and their own markets. Futures for the S&P 500 jumped 2.6% and for the Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 2%. Oil prices surged more than $1.60 a barrel and the U.S. dollar gained against the euro and the Japanese yen. “This is a substantial de-escalation,” said Mark Williams, chief Asia economist at Capital Economics. But he warned “there is no guarantee that the 90-day truce will give way to a lasting ceasefire.” Jens Eskelund, president of the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China, welcomed the news but expressed caution. The tariffs only were suspended for 90 days and there is great uncertainty over what lies ahead, he said in a statement. “Businesses need predictability to maintain normal operations and make investment decisions. The chamber therefore hopes to see both sides continue to engage in dialogue to resolve differences, and avoid taking measures that will disrupt global trade and result in collateral damage for those caught in the cross-fire,” Eskelund said. The President last month raised U.S. tariffs on China to a combined 145% and China retaliated by hitting American imports with a 125% levy. Tariffs that high essentially amount to the two countries boycotting each other’s products, disrupting trade that last year topped $660 billion. The announcement by the U.S. and China sent shares surging, with U.S. futures jumping more than 2%. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index surged nearly 3% and benchmarks in Germany and France were both up 0.7% The The President administration has imposed tariffs on countries worldwide, but its fight with China has been the most intense. The President’s import taxes on goods from China include a 20% charge meant to pressure Beijing into doing more to stop the flow of the synthetic opioid fentanyl into the United States. McHugh contributed from Frankfurt, Germany, Kurtenbach from Mito, Japan, and Moritsugu from Beijing. —Jamey Keaten, David McHugh, Elaine Kurtenbach and Ken Moritsugu, Assosicated Press View the full article

This week, the discount retail chain Big Lots will open dozens of new stores. The openings are the third part of a four-wave relaunch of the brand, which marks a radical turnaround for a chain that was expected to close every store permanently after it filed for bankruptcy last year. Here’s what you need to know about the latest round of Big Lots store openings. Big Lots back from bankruptcy brink Back in December 2024, Big Lots filed for bankruptcy after years of financial struggles. The company announced that it would close all of its 800 stores and permanently go out of business, and it brought in liquidation specialists Gordon Brothers to oversee the closure. But in a last-minute deal, Variety Wholesalers, which owns discount chains including Super Dollar and Bargain Town, swooped in and agreed to buy 219 Big Lots locations from Gordon Brothers. Variety then announced that it would reopen those locations after a brief period of closure for remodeling and restocking, and continue to operate them under the Big Lots brand. As Fast Company previously reported, those 219 Big Lots reopenings would be conducted in a phased approach made up of four waves: The first wave of stores opened in April. The second wave of stores opened in early May. This week, the third wave of that phased reopening begins. 78 more Big Lots locations to open on May 15 On Thursday, May 15, an additional 78 Big Lots stores will reopen in Variety Wholesalers’ third wave. The 78 store openings will occur in 13 states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. The state with the most openings in this wave is North Carolina with 16 openings, followed by Pennsylvania with 10 openings. Here is the full list of Big Lots wave 3 openings: Alabama 14228 US Highway 431, Guntersville, AL, 35976 5510 McFarland Blvd, Northport, AL, 35476 1100 Hwy 78 W, Jasper, AL, 35501 2821 Montgomery Highway, Dothan, AL, 36303 Florida 4700 Highway 90, Marianna, FL, 32446 225 S Tyndall Pkwy, Panama City, FL, 32404 9119 Merrill Rd Ste 50, Jacksonville, FL, 32225 122 S Nova Rd, Ormond Beach, FL, 32174 146 SE US Highway 19, Crystal River, FL, 34429 Georgia 260 Merchants Square, Dallas, GA, 30132 2932 Canton Rd Ste 210, Marietta, GA, 30066 3791 S Cobb Dr SE Ste G, Smyrna, GA, 30080 4125 Highway 20, Ste A-2, Buford, GA, 30518 2305 E 1st St, Vidalia, GA, 30474 1803 Knight Ave Ste A2, Waycross, GA, 31501 4420 Altama Ave Ste C2, Brunswick, GA, 31520 Kentucky 400 Campbellsville Byp, Campbellsville, KY, 42718 294 Village Ln, Hazard, KY, 41701 845 S Main St, London, KY, 40741 102 N 12th St, Middlesboro, KY, 40965 345 N Hwy 27 Ste 5, Somerset, KY, 42503 Michigan 659 24th St, Port Huron, MI, 48060 14333 Eureka Rd, Southgate, MI, 48195 Mississippi 875 Main St, Southhaven, MS, 38671 North Carolina 685 S Hughes Blvd, Elizabeth City, NC, 27909 2725 Northwest Blvd, Newton, NC, 28658 1020 Crossroads Dr, Statesville, NC, 28625 376 West Plaza Drive, Mooresville, NC, 28117 403 N Generals Blvd, Lincolnton, NC, 28092 1728 E Dixon Blvd, Shelby, NC, 28152 601 Park St, Belmont, NC, 28012 3718 Battleground Ave, Greensboro, NC, 27410 1811 S Church St, Burlington, NC, 27215 838 Winston Rd, Lexington, NC, 27295 1700 Raleigh Rd Pkwy W Ste 104, Wilson, NC, 27896 609 Greenville Blvd SE, Greenville, NC, 27858 1403 S Pollock St, Selma, NC, 27576 1140 W Broad St, Dunn, NC, 28334 3915 Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, NC, 28311 3910 Raeford Rd, Fayetteville, NC, 28304 Ohio 3946 W Alexis Rd, Toledo, OH, 43623 1800 E State St, Fremont, OH, 43420 825 Cleveland St, Elyria, OH, 44035 408 Bluebell Dr NW, New Philadelphia, OH, 44663 2837 Winchester Pike, Columbus, OH, 43232 4260 West Broad St, Columbus, OH, 43228 3961 Hoover Rd, Grove City, OH, 43123 2050 E Dorothy Ln, Kettering, OH, 45420 1700 E Main St, Lancaster, OH, 43130 Pennsylvania 2215 W 12th St, Erie, PA, 16505 820 Water St, Meadville, PA, 16335 697 Allegheny Blvd, Franklin, PA, 16323 2611 Ellwood Rd, New Castle, PA, 16101 5522 Shaffer Rd Unit 7, Du Bois, PA, 15801 2431 Columbia Blvd, Bloomsburg, PA, 17815 156 Eagles Glen Plz Ste 190, East Stroudsburg, PA, 18301 1241 Blakeslee Boulevard Dr E, Lehighton, PA, 18235 3437 Simpson Ferry Rd, Camp Hill, PA, 17011 467 W Penn Ave, Cleona, PA, 17042 South Carolina 207 Oconee Square Dr, Seneca, SC, 29678 339 Bypass 72 NW, Greenwood, SC, 29649 421 Columbia Ave, Lexington, SC, 29072 3230 Augusta Rd, West Columbia, SC, 29170 Tennessee 3110 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, TN, 37601 2342 E Andrew Johnson Hwy, Morristown, TN, 37814 1475 E Andrew Johnson Hwy, Greeneville, TN, 37745 116 S Hall Rd, Alcoa, TN, 37701 201 Forks of the River Parkway, Sevierville, TN, 37862 264 E Broadway Blvd, Jefferson City, TN, 37760 Virginia 260 Remount Rd, Front Royal, VA, 22630 10611 Courthouse Rd, Fredericksburg, VA, 22407 10001 Hull Street Rd, North Chesterfield, VA, 23236 2660 Weir Place, Chester, VA, 23831 5260 Oaklawn Blvd, North Prince George, VA, 23860 4318 George Washington Mem Hwy, Yorktown, VA, 23692 West Virginia 291 Mall Rd, Oak Hill, WV, 25901 4522 Robert C Byrd Dr, Beckley, WV, 25801 1350 Stafford Dr, Princeton, WV, 24740 Future Big Lots reopenings Thursday’s openings will represent the third wave of Variety Wholesaler’s four-phased Big Lots reopening rollout. With Thursday’s opening of another 78 locations, that will bring Big Lots’ total reopenings to 141. That means the final 78 openings of the 219 total planned stores will happen in wave 4, which is currently scheduled for June. View the full article

Unlimited PTO policies were all the rage for a while, but now they’re starting to lose their allure. Here, experts weigh in on why companies are shifting away from this once-popular benefit, what alternative solutions look like, and why other options can be more effective. Failing to Deliver Unlimited paid time off policies are losing popularity because, in practice, they often fail to deliver the flexibility and wellness benefits they promise. While they sound progressive, the reality is that many employees end up taking less time off under these policies. Without a clear benchmark for what’s considered “normal” or acceptable, employees often hesitate to use their time, fearing it might reflect poorly on their work ethic or commitment. This lack of clarity creates anxiety and inadvertently fuels a culture of overwork—exactly what unlimited PTO is meant to prevent. Another challenge is inconsistency. Some employees may feel empowered to take extended time off, while others are quietly discouraged, leading to inequities and resentment. In industries where consistent staffing is critical, the lack of structure makes planning difficult, and in some cases, managers may even override requests, further undermining the policy’s intent. Additionally, unlimited PTO can’t always be applied equally across salaried and hourly workers, potentially triggering claims of unfairness or noncompliance with local labor laws. As a result, many companies are shifting toward mandatory vacation policies, which require employees to take a minimum number of days off each year. This approach removes the ambiguity, helps normalize taking time away from work, and actively combats burnout. It’s especially effective in high-pressure environments where employees may otherwise push through exhaustion or skip vacations entirely. By institutionalizing rest, companies see improved retention, better morale, and a more energized workforce. It’s a simple yet powerful shift—one that sends a clear message: rest isn’t a perk, it’s a priority. Tyler Butler, founder, Collaboration for Good Company-Wide Reset Weeks Foster Collective Well-Being Unlimited PTO once promised freedom and flexibility, but it’s increasingly clear that for many employees, especially those from underrepresented or historically excluded backgrounds, it’s more of a mirage than a benefit. In my work as a senior HR leader in Tech and a therapist and coach for underrepresented communities, I’ve seen how this policy, when poorly implemented, can erode psychological safety, blur boundaries, and increase inequity. One major issue with unlimited PTO is that it lacks structure. Without clear norms or leadership modeling, employees may feel guilty or uncertain about taking time off. Research shows that in organizations with unlimited leave policies, people often take less time off than those with set vacation days. This perceived pressure to “prove” one’s commitment disproportionately affects women, caregivers, and marginalized employees who are already navigating imposter syndrome or subtle biases. It can make rest feel like a risk. Instead, some companies are shifting to collective rest models, structured, trust-based systems that prioritize equity and well-being. One alternative I’ve seen gaining traction in hybrid workplaces is “company-wide reset weeks” or seasonal shutdowns, where the entire organization takes time off simultaneously. These initiatives remove the ambiguity and competition of unlimited PTO and foster psychological safety by normalizing rest for everyone, not just the bold or burnout-resistant. This model supports all five elements of high-performing teams identified by Project Aristotle, Google’s Research on Effective Teams: 1. Psychological safety is boosted when everyone logs off at once, minimizing the fear of falling behind. 2. Dependability grows when teams can trust that their colleagues will take breaks and return replenished, not burned out. 3. Structure and clarity are enhanced when time off is explicitly defined and coordinated. 4. Meaning is reinforced as employees feel that their well-being is genuinely prioritized, not just promised. 5. And impact increases when people return from true rest more creative, collaborative, and focused. In today’s hybrid reality, where boundaries are already blurred, the future of time off needs to be as thoughtful and inclusive as our approach to work itself. Unlimited PTO may sound progressive, but the real innovation lies in creating policies that build trust, provide clarity, and prioritize collective wellbeing. Manuel Schlothauer, founder, HeyManuel.com ‘Life Leave’ Balances Flexibility with Clear Expectations One of the most consistent challenges I’ve heard over many years of practice is that PTO policies—despite their intended flexibility—often lack clear structure and guidance. This absence of clarity can lead to uncertainty around what’s considered acceptable, making team members hesitant to fully utilize their time off. While teams appreciate the flexibility their companies provide, they also place high value on clarity—they want to know what success looks like and how time away aligns with performance expectations. Unlimited PTO policies, in particular, tend to fall short in this regard. Though well-intentioned and often introduced to help companies elevate their total rewards, they can leave people wondering how much time is “too much,” which leads to underutilization and inconsistent experiences across teams. What’s especially challenging—and somewhat counterintuitive—is that this happens despite our clear understanding that time off is critical to our team members’ ability to do their best work. We know it supports mental health, overall wellness, creativity, and long-term performance. Yet without the right structure, even the most flexible policies can miss the mark. In response, I’ve often implemented an approach called “Life Leave” that complements traditional PTO policies (e.g., vacation). This framework offers flexibility with intention. It empowers team members to take time off in ways that are personally meaningful to them, whether for rest, volunteering, professional development, cultural observances, or family responsibilities. What makes Life Leave most effective is its balance, as it supports individual needs while reinforcing clear expectations around performance and accountability. I’ve found it particularly impactful to provide explicit guidance on how much time is available, which helps create clarity and confidence for team members, leading to more usage and engagement. At the same time, it remains flexible enough to allow people to lean in when and how it makes sense for them—and it evolves as the team’s needs evolve. Heidi Hauver, VP, Customer & People Experience, LearnExperts Structured Time Off Motivates Employees Better Unlimited PTO sounds like a great benefit on paper, but after working with several companies who were considering Unlimited PTO, I have firsthand seen why this policy does not usually work well in practice. There are several reasons, but by far, I believe the biggest reason for moving away from this policy is people’s behavior. That is, people are wired to want to know our “score,” by reacting to scarcity. For instance, when we see how many “lives” we have left on a video game, or how long a training program video runs, or how many more points until we earn a free taco, we tend to be more motivated to keep going, earn more, and utilize what we have earned. Marketing professionals know this and utilize it with “limited edition” runs of products to create demand. Unlimited PTO removes this “limited edition” mindset by removing the “scoreboard.” When people are unaware of how many days they have taken off or how many they have remaining, psychologically it makes them use less overall. Virtually every company I have experience with that has moved to unlimited time off has seen a drop in time off taken, not an increase. So if the purpose is less time, then it is working, but if the purpose is increased well-being and increased engagement, it is not working. The better solution, when you have people asking for either unlimited or simply more time, is to simply give more time. Yes, there is a balance sheet cost, but in reality, it is a very small cost compared to other benefits with a very high upside. Creative approaches like additional recognized company holidays, floating holidays so people can celebrate religious or family occasions that aren’t otherwise recognized, giving an extra day off in the month of your birthday or your company anniversary, and giving an extra week or two as an earned “sabbatical” every few years, all go far in employee appreciation without adding a large cost burden. Additionally, leading by example helps. People pay attention to what their leaders do. So when they see leaders not taking off their allotted time, they will do the same. Conversely, leaders I work with who use their time off have employees who do as well, and are healthier and more engaged as a result. Angela Heyroth, principal, Talent Centric Designs Mandatory Minimum PTO Protects Against Employee Burnout Data suggest that the popularity of these plans may be waning. Why? Job postings offering unlimited paid time off (PTO) have decreased by 50% from 2022 to 2024, according to Revelio Labs, from 3.1 per 1,000 to 1.5 per 1,000. Employee perception is also waning; companies offering unlimited paid time off (PTO) were rated 3.24% lower in work-life balance compared to those with traditional PTO policies. While unlimited PTO sounds like the ultimate perk, our research revealed that, when deciding whether to adopt this type of plan, employees generally take less time off than those with a traditional PTO plan. Research suggests that these policies are underutilized due to ambiguity surrounding acceptable usage and concerns about appearing less dedicated. We have instituted a “use-it-or-lose-it” PTO policy to encourage our team members to take their full time off to recharge and rejuvenate. Also, we award a paid week’s sabbatical every five years of service. As companies rethink traditional time-off models, flexible PTO and mandatory minimum PTO policies are emerging as more innovative alternatives to unlimited leave. Flexible PTO offers freedom with a light structure, appealing to organizations that trust employees to manage their well-being. Meanwhile, mandatory minimum PTO ensures employees take the time they need to reset, which protects against burnout and boosts long-term productivity. Increasingly, companies are realizing that spending time away from work is not enough to recharge their team. They have to design for it. Structured time-off policies backed by leadership modeling and clear expectations are proving far more effective than the “you figure it out” approach of early unlimited PTO experiments. Kristin Pardue, cofounder and CEO, Rêve Consulting Flexible Scheduling Focuses on Job Performance Goals Unlimited PTO policies are losing popularity with both employees and employers. This is largely because the “logic” of such policies is faulty. For such policies to make sense, extremely accurate KPIs are required (both lagging and leading) to assess all aspects of the employees’ jobs. In theory, any employee who is performing at or above 100% of all job responsibilities with no risk of performance slipping should be supported in taking as much time off as they desire in exchange for continued performance. Unfortunately, it’s nearly impossible to identify highly accurate lagging and leading KPIs for every aspect or responsibility of any given job/employee. Moreover, it’s often difficult to track and report on all KPIs in a timely manner. Thus, employers and employees alike cannot be sure performance is truly where it should be in support of such policies. Consequently, Unlimited PTO policies have often caused conflict, which nobody likes. One alternative many companies are having success with is a fresh take on an old idea: Flexible Scheduling/Flexible Work. These policies often take the opposite approach, stating the job performance goals regardless of when or where the work is performed to achieve them, or how long it takes. These programs often do not distinguish between working versus nonworking hours or days of the week, or any amount of hours required—just satisfactory completion of the requirements. So, it’s just a different perspective to accomplish the same objective. Sometimes a different perspective changes everything. Joe Palmer, managing partner, Prosperity Partners Consulting, Inc. Scheduled Downtime Replaces Unlimited PTO Policy Unlimited PTO policies are fading because companies realize that offering unlimited time off doesn’t translate into employees taking enough breaks, especially high-performers focused on hitting deadlines. Instead of preventing burnout with a better work-life balance, getting rid of vacation minimums might lead to your best people leaving because they’re exhausted and feel too much pressure to take ample time. For us, it’s been much better to intentionally schedule downtime that fits in the company’s work rhythm. You have to actively plan for it by finding those natural lulls between projects or busy seasons and leaning into them. If you can’t manage full shutdowns, you can stagger these lighter periods across different departments so the business keeps running smoothly. Marketing teams can take a breather while engineering ramps up, or vice versa, for example. Unlike unlimited PTO, which puts the onus on employees who often feel they can’t step away from the work, scheduled downtime makes taking a break a normal and expected part of the job. It takes real effort to implement properly, and you need buy-in from every manager to actively champion and protect this downtime for their teams. We try to put this into practice by encouraging our team leads to actively schedule cooldown periods for their teams right after major projects wrap up or after particularly intense sprints. After our big Q1 product launch last year, the core product and engineering folks got a designated week immediately after with a lighter workload, very few meetings, and real encouragement to disconnect as much as possible before we started diving into Q2 planning. Many of our teammates tend to use vacation time then because they’re ready for a break, and work won’t pile up while they’re away. We’ve noticed less burnout reported after those crunch times, and people generally come back feeling more focused and recharged from that planned time off. Edward White, head of Growth, beehiiv Planned PTO Cycles Improve Operational Clarity It reduces operational clarity, to some degree at least. When time off isn’t formally accrued or budgeted, teams struggle with planning. They can’t accurately forecast bandwidth, coordinate coverage, or identify burnout risk if everyone is on an undefined schedule. Managers end up tracking PTO informally anyway, which then defeats the whole premise. Planned PTO cycles may hold the answer here. Instead of waiting for people to request time off, companies can preschedule rest into the calendar. This could involve two company-wide breaks a year (e.g., one week in summer, one in winter), plus a set number of flexible days. This approach works better because it removes the psychological barrier of “asking” and builds rest into the rhythm of the business. Teams recover together. No one returns to an overwhelming backlog, and clients learn to expect and respect the cadence. Adam Dayan, founder, Consumer Law Group, LLC Transparent Time-Off Calendars Enhance Team Planning There is a reason why Unlimited PTO policies aren’t as popular as they used to be. At first glance, they sound incredibly empowering—”Take all the time you need!”—but the reality often plays out very differently. What ends up happening is a lack of time-off visibility across the team. When everyone’s PTO is open-ended but not clearly communicated or tracked, people get caught off guard by surprise absences, especially during critical project phases. It’s not about “if” someone takes time off, but “when” and “how it affects the team.” That’s where things start to fall apart. What worked much better for us was moving to Transparent Time-Off Calendars that sync directly with our project management tools. Everyone can see who’s off and when, which helps with coverage and planning. But what really made the difference were the “soft limits” we introduced—like encouraging team members not to book extended time off during peak quarters or final sprint weeks unless discussed in advance. These aren’t hard rules, but they give the team a structure to work with. It reduces friction and prevents the kind of calendar chaos that was quietly undermining productivity under the Unlimited PTO model. In the end, it’s not about offering endless days off—it’s about building a culture where taking time off is respected, communicated clearly, and planned thoughtfully so that no one feels like they’re carrying the weight when others are away. Ben Kruger, CMO, Event Tickets Center View the full article

Move aside, Google Maps: Snapchat’s Snap Map has hit a major milestone with 400 million monthly active users. Launched in 2017, Snap Map began as a GPS-based feature that allowed users to see their friends’ real-time locations. Those who opted in could view a live map showing not just where their friends were, but also what was happening nearby—and share their own location as well. Since then, Snapchat has significantly expanded its map features. Last year, Snap Map introduced “Footsteps,” a tool that helps users visualize how much of the world they’ve explored. For instance, the app might report that you’ve covered 75% of your local area. The feature is reminiscent of Google Maps’s “Timeline,” which tracks visited places through Location History. “Our Map is about more than getting directions from point A to point B; it enables Snapchatters to stay connected, in real time, to their physical world,” Snapchat said, per Adweek. Snapchat also launched “Promoted Places,” allowing brands to advertise and highlight all their locations on Snap Map, making it easier for users to discover new spots. McDonald’s and Taco Bell are among the brands leveraging this feature. Currently, Snapchat is the only major social media platform with a map feature as a central part of its experience, offering real-time social discovery. That may soon change, though—Instagram has confirmed it’s developing a similar “Friend Map” feature. This will allow users to post text and video updates tied to specific locations, with friends’ updates displayed alongside one another on the map. Despite Instagram’s ambitions, it still has a long way to go to catch up. “Snap Map is one of the most used mobile maps in the world, and we’re thrilled to see our community continue to grow,” said Ceci Mourkogiannis, VP of Product at Snap, in a statement to TechCrunch. “The Snap Map is helping hundreds of millions connect with friends and their favorite places and discover what’s happening around them, making the world feel more connected every day.” View the full article

In April 2025, the bank admitted that it may have made a mistake in denying the plaintiff forbearance. View the full article

Jonathan Goldstein’s Heavyweight, where he helps people confront things from their past, is one of the most beloved podcasts of all time. In 2023 when Spotify was making huge cuts, it was one of them. But earlier this year, Malcolm Gladwell’s Pushkin Industries picked it back up, and episodes will be returning soon. If you want more Heavyweight-ish stuff now, this list of podcasts will keep you satisfied. They share Heavyweight’s ethos—curiosity, empathy, a sense of humor, and beautiful audio. Wiretap Credit: Wiretap Wiretap is Jonathan Goldstein’s earlier CBC show, and it’s the spiritual ancestor of Heavyweight—weird, warm, and moving. Each episode blends scripted monologue with real-life moments and absurd sketches, all wrapped in Goldstein’s signature self-deprecating wit. It’s looser and more surreal than Heavyweight, but the emotional core is the same: people trying to make sense of themselves and each other. You'll hear stories that feel like confessions told late at night, or voicemails from someone who knows you better than you know yourself. Listening to Wiretap is like reading Jonathan’s diary—and discovering it's somehow yours, too. Proxy Credit: Proxy Yowei Shaw is trying to help people. With her beautiful show Proxy, Yowei (who refers to herself as an emotional journalist) solves niche emotional conundrums, investigated by proxy—finding people with unresolved relationships and linking them up with a stranger who can help them better understand their problems. (Recently she connected a man whose wife left him for another woman with another woman who left her husband for a woman.) Yowei comes from the massively popular podcast NPR Invisibilia, so you can trust her to deliver a good story that is tender and professionally structured. There is nothing like Proxy, making it a space for unique conversations never heard before. Selected Shorts Credit: Selected Shorts Selected Shorts is like a mixed bag for audio lovers, a magazine and time capsule all in one. Every month, executive producer and host Mitra Kaboli releases curated audio documentaries, interviews, and discussions made by and with the best people in the business. This is the stuff from the past that has inspired some of the best things you’re listening to now. There is free content on the feed (I recommend “Call Now” by Sean Cole, a hilarious piece about lawyer ads) but you need a subscription to get all the goodies. Family Ghosts Credit: Family Ghosts In episodes of Family Ghosts, host Sam Dingman starts with a personal mystery—an old family rumor, a missing person—and digs until he finds gold. It’s the mystery that snags your attention, but it's Sam’s thoughtful meditation on what it means that will keep you adding these episodes to your queue. These are stories about identity, legacy, and truth that often lack a tidy resolution, like so many of our relationships. It’s tender and comforting to hear about the complications that are happening in other people’s families. It’s why we peek into windows at night; it makes us feel less alone. This Is Love Credit: This Is Love Phoebe Judge’s This is Love has the same soulful curiosity and emotional depth that makes Heavyweight so beloved. It’s almost like Phoebe is painting a mural of the theme of love, and she is using human stories about love in all forms (friendship, romance, love for animals) to do it. Her voice is famously calm and steady, the kind that makes you want to sit still and really listen to what she has to say as she unspools stories of connection, devotion, and the unexpected ways love shows up in people’s lives. The show isn’t afraid of melancholy, but always offers a sense of awe rather than despair. Snap Judgment Credit: Snap Judgment On Snap Judgment, Glynn Washington is your emcee for a poetry slam of stories, starting out each episode with one of his own, told with such energy that you can feel it pulsing through your body. Then he hands the mic to his storyteller and you hear their story, expertly assembled with killer beats. The result? Movies for your ears. These stories—a foreign negotiator attempts to free an American journalist being held captive, someone experiences a glitch in the universe, an underwater photographer is saved by harp seals—will stick with you. Listen to just one story (I recommend starting with “The Border Hacker”) and join the huge community of Snappers who sit at the altar of storytelling master Glynn Washington, waiting for him to drop new beats. Articles of Interest Credit: Articles of Interest Like Heavyweight, Articles of Interest is a meticulously crafted show that finds profound meaning in unexpected places. Host Avery Trufelman investigates the hidden histories behind clothing and fashion with the same mix of curiosity and narrative perfection that Jonathan Goldstein brings to his show. Both shows make the small feel big, unearthing emotional depth in things most of us overlook. There’s a gentle wit and generosity in the storytelling, making you feel smarter and more connected by the end of every episode. If Heavyweight is about people trying to understand their past, Articles of Interest is about understanding the past stitched into what we wear. Beautiful / Anonymous Credit: Beautiful / Anonymous Episodes of Beautiful / Anonymous (short for Beautiful Stories from Anonymous People) take you to unexpected, human places. Every episode is a phone call to a stranger—host Chris Gethard sets his stop watch to 60 minutes and has a conversation with them, letting them take the conversation however they see fit. Chris Gethard brings a tender curiosity to every anonymous call, allowing space for the sometimes strange, sometimes funny, always heartfelt conversations that, like Heavyweight, often unlock a human mystery about someone. Chris has talked to a witch, a man whose wife is dying of cancer, a funeral director, someone who opens up about their heroin addiction, and many more. The Memory Palace Credit: The Memory Palace The Memory Palace and Heavyweight are kindred spirits, both obsessed with the weight of the past. But with The Memory Palace, the stories are quieter and a little bit more mysterious. Nate DiMeo tells true, often forgotten tales with the rhythm of a lullaby and the punch of a good short story, slipping history into your ears like a secret. Episodes don’t need resolutions or jokes to get you to feel all the feelings, but episodes will stick in your head for a while. "The House of Lowe" is an evocative story about a pioneering woman in fashion, "Below, from Above" is an account of the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge, and "I'm Still Alive" explores the history of premature burials. Endless Thread Credit: Endless Thread Most Endless Thread stories begin with something strange found on Reddit and evolve from there into a story about people IRL. Using storytelling, interviews, and discussions, hosts Ben Brock Johnson and Amory Sivertson find the people involved in the stories and bring their threads to life. What makes it like Heavyweight is the mixture of mysteries and personal experiences that will give you a glimpse into the lives of people around the world, both online and off. View the full article

If you’ve ever felt like your pet knows exactly when to pull you away from the stress of your computer screen, you aren’t alone. A landmark study surveying over 30,000 pet owners in 20 different countries found that 78% of dog or cat owners report that their pets remind them to take breaks during work or tasks, with 50% of the participants saying this happens daily. The study, which was conducted by YouGov on behalf of Mars, is the largest international survey of its kind in the world. The findings resonated deeply with David Reilly, Global VP at Mars Petcare. “If my dog’s at daycare, I don’t take a break at lunch time,” he says. “But if my dogs’s not at daycare, somehow miraculously, I find the space to create up an hour to take my dog on a walk.” Knowing that his relationship with his own pet had such an impact on his mental health, David was excited by the data. “I think 46% of people globally report their mental well-being is their number-one health priority and 56% of the population of the world has a pet. So if we can help unlock this idea that the pet could be your well-being superhero . . . then there’s a real opportunity there,” he says. To do this, Mars Petcare team needed to seek further expertise. “We have a deep knowledge of pets and we actually have a deep knowledge of the bond between people and pets. But we aren’t experts in human mental health,” says Reilly. The solution was to collaborate with consumer mental health company Calm. Together, Mars and Calm collaborated on a collection of content meant to help pet lovers think about their bond with their pets as ways to improve their own well-being. Its launch marks the first pet-inspired collection featured on Calm. The content on Calm will include: A series of sleep stories inspired by the emotional connection between people and their pets. A series of guided meditations meant to help listeners reflect on the ways pets support their mental wellness. A series of breathing exercises. On Mars’s pet advice platform Kinship, Mars and Calm are launching the interactive quiz My Pet Guru, which helps pet owners learn which of six “wellbeing superpowers” their pet has based on questions about their personalities and behaviors. “Together, we’re helping more people—and their pets—experience the proven benefits of the human-animal bond through real stories, science-backed tools, and supportive content,” says Greg Justice, chief content officer at Calm. “Once the insights are rich . . . it doesn’t need to be overly clinical” says Reilly. The researchers, pet experts, and content creators, “worked together to find the sweet spot of ensuring that the content was true to what we’d heard, but also really accessible and also engaging for pet owners or other people who love pets.” Mars and Calm are also seeking touching stories from pet owners to inform the wave of pet stories from Calm. “What I’m looking forward to, honestly, is hearing the stories that people share. Pets genuinely make a really incredible impact on people’s lives,” says Reilly. View the full article

As a nearly 60-year-old brand, Hot Wheels has been a playroom staple for generations of children. But while the tiny cars and buildable track sets have managed to find their way into the playrooms of millions of children, the looping, curving track pieces have always been a bit of a challenge to actually put together. Mattel, which created the Hot Wheels brand in 1968, knows this is a pain point, especially at the younger end of their target market. Recent research found that less than a third of kids aged 3 to 6 are able to assemble Hot Wheels track sets without help. “That to us was a really big call to say that we need to approach this in a different manner,” says Roberto Stanichi, executive vice president of Hot Wheels. So, in 2022, Hot Wheels launched an unusually detailed research and development effort to improve the assembly of its playsets. The outcome is the new Hot Wheels Speed Snap Track System, which makes every section of track easier to connect together. Instead of the somewhat complicated existing system that requires a small connector piece to slide into the end of each section of track, the new system’s track pieces come together with a simple snap that’s manageable for kids as young as 3. Products will start hitting stores in early summer, and will come with adapters to connect to the existing track system. “It’s the first time we’ve done this big of an innovation in the track system in over 50 years,” says Katie Buford, vice president of product at Mattel. Building a new track For Hot Wheels, the typical pipeline to bring a new product to market takes about 18 months. When it came to the tracks, the brand spent almost three years to get this essential piece of the playsets right. Buford says consumer research helped inform the need for a different approach, and Hot Wheels designers and engineers worked their way through six prototypes, and variations of those six, before landing on the approach that was the most intuitive and the most accessible. “It comes back to the testing. Like, lots and lots of rounds of making sure that the snap is the right tolerance, and that it is the right amount of pressure for kids to be able to put together, but also the right amount for it not to come apart,” Buford says. “It’s a fine balance to strike.” Hot Wheels playsets, which come in a range from conventional racetrack loops to extravagantly looped and motorized contortions, can be a make or break for consumers, according to Stanichi. Some consumers will buy a track product and call it a day, while the more engaged Hot Wheels fan might buy many track sets over time, connecting them together in wild and YouTube-ready arrays. All Hot Wheels playsets sold over the past decade or so have included at least one connection point that allows them to link up with other sets for more creative and expansive play. But for those kids who have been unable to build the playsets on their own, the drive to get more tracks just wasn’t there. “Kids are already engaged in our brand. They are already our fans. But because of some of these usability challenges, we were not getting them to go deeper into our track system,” Stanichi says. “When the Hot Wheels track system really comes to life is when you’re expanding it.” Endlessly expandable The new system was intentionally designed to be modular, so that it could be endlessly expanded. Redesigning the tracks became a way to nudge more kids away from thinking of the playsets as a contained activity and toward thinking of them more as what Stanichi calls “a sandbox for creativity.” According to user testing, Hot Wheels’s Speed Snap Track System addresses the main problem with the existing track system, making assembly easier for a majority of the Hot Wheels 3-to-6-year-old target audience. Track setup time was also reduced by 10%. Stanichi says the product will be a success if it gets more Hot Wheels customers to go from just buying toy cars to buying playsets, and for more of those who already have playsets to double or even triple the number of sets they own. Whether a few stretches of plastic race-car track will convince kids—or, really, parents—to buy more Hot Wheels stuff remains to be seen. But according to Stanichi, the brand doesn’t actually need that much help. It’s seen seven years of revenue growth, and shows no sign of slowing down. “The last seven years have been the best performing years in the history of the brand,” Stanichi says. That makes redesigning one of the key components of the brand a possibly confusing decision. But Stanichi says the user data on the existing track’s assembly challenges was impossible to ignore. “There’s been a lot of excitement and support within Mattel overall to innovate and to break something that is not broken so we can make it better,” Stanichi says. View the full article

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