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The real estate data firm said the merger will support efforts to scale and plans to ramp up development of enterprise technology products. View the full article

The debate around llms.txt has become one of the most polarized topics in web optimization. Some treat llms.txt as foundational infrastructure, while many SEO veterans dismiss it as speculative theater. Platform tools flag missing llms.txt files as site issues, yet server logs show that AI crawlers rarely request them. Google even adopted it. Sort of. In December, the company added llms.txt files across many developer and documentation sites. The signal seemed clear: if the company behind the sitemap standard is implementing llms.txt, it likely matters. Except Google pulled it from its Search developer docs within 24 hours. Google’s John Mueller said the change came from a sitewide CMS update that many content teams didn’t realize was happening. When asked why the files still exist on other Google properties, Mueller said they aren’t “findable by default because they’re not at the top-level” and “it’s safe to assume they’re there for other purposes,” not discovery. The llms.txt research We wanted data, not debates. So we tracked llms.txt adoption across 10 sites in finance, B2B SaaS, ecommerce, insurance, and pet care — 90 days before implementation and 90 days after. We measured AI crawl frequency, traffic from ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and Gemini, and what else these sites changed during the same window. The results: Two of the 10 sites saw AI traffic increases of 12.5% and 25%, but llms.txt wasn’t the cause. Eight sites saw no measurable change. One site declined by 19.7%. The 2 ‘success’ stories weren’t about the file The Neobank: 25% growth This digital banking platform implemented llms.txt early in Q3 2025. Ninety days later, AI traffic was up 25%. Here’s what else happened in that window: A PR campaign around its banking license, with coverage in major national publications. Product pages restructured with extractable comparison tables for interest rates, fees, and minimums. Twelve new FAQ pages optimized for extraction. A rebuilt resource center with new banking information and concepts. Technical SEO issues, like header structures, fixed. When a company gets Bloomberg coverage the same month it launches optimized content and fixes crawl errors, you can’t isolate the llms.txt as the growth driver. The B2B SaaS platform: 12.5% growth This workflow automation company saw traffic jump 12.5% two weeks after implementing llms.txt. Perfect timing. Case closed. Except… Three weeks earlier, the company published 27 downloadable AI templates covering project management frameworks, financial models, and workflow planners. Functional tools, not content marketing, drove the engagement behind the spike. Google organic traffic to the templates rose 18% during the same period and continued climbing throughout the 90 days we measured. Search engines and AI models surfaced the templates because they solved real problems and launched an entirely new site section — not because they were listed in an llms.txt file. The 8 sites where nothing happened after uploading llms.txt Eight sites saw no measurable change. One declined by 19.7%. The decline came from an insurance site that implemented llms.txt in early September. The drop likely had nothing to do with the file. The same pattern showed up across all traffic channels. Llms.txt neither prevented the decline nor created any advantage. The other seven sites — ecommerce (pet supplies, home goods, fashion), B2B SaaS (HR tech, marketing analytics), finance, and pet care — all documented their best existing content in llms.txt. That included product pages, case studies, API docs, and buying guides. Ninety days later, nothing changed. Traffic stayed flat. Crawl frequency was identical. The content was already indexed and discoverable, and the file didn’t alter that. Sites that launched new, functional content saw gains. Sites that documented existing content saw no gains. Why the disconnect? No major LLM provider has officially committed to parsing llms.txt. Not OpenAI. Not Anthropic. Not Google. Not Meta. Google’s Mueller put it plainly: “None of the AI services have said they’re using llms.txt, and you can tell when you look at your server logs that they don’t even check for it.” That’s the reality. The file exists. The advocacy exists. The adoption by platforms doesn’t show it (yet!). The token efficiency argument (and its limits) The strongest case for llms.txt is about efficiency. Markdown saves time and tokens when AI agents parse documentation. Clean structure instead of complex HTML with navigation, ads, and JavaScript. Vercel says 10% of their signups come from ChatGPT. Its llms.txt includes contextual API descriptions that help agents decide what to fetch. This matters — but almost exclusively for developer tools and API documentation. If your audience uses AI coding assistants like Cursor or GitHub Copilot to interact with your product, token efficiency improves integration. For ecommerce selling pet supplies, insurance explaining coverage, or B2B SaaS targeting nontechnical buyers, token efficiency doesn’t translate into traffic. llms.txt is a sitemap, not a strategy The most accurate comparison is a sitemap. Sitemaps are valuable infrastructure. They help search engines discover and index content more efficiently. But no one credits traffic growth to adding a sitemap. The sitemap documents what exists; the content drives discovery. Llms.txt works the same way. It may help AI models parse your site more efficiently if they choose to use it, but it doesn’t make your content more useful, authoritative, or likely to answer user queries. In our analysis, the sites that grew did so because they: Created functional assets like downloadable templates, comparison tables, and structured data. Earned external visibility through press and backlinks. Fixed technical barriers such as crawl and indexing issues. Published content optimized for extraction, including FAQs and structured comparisons. Llms.txt documented those efforts. It didn’t drive them. What actually works The two successful sites show what matters: Create functional, extractable assets. The SaaS platform built 27 downloadable templates that users could deploy immediately. AI models surfaced these because they solved real problems, not because they were listed in a markdown file. Structure content for extraction. The neobank rebuilt product pages with comparison tables with interest rates, fees, and account minimums. This is data AI models can pull directly into answers without interpretation. Fix technical barriers first. The neobank fixed crawl errors that had blocked content for months. If AI models can’t access your content, no amount of documentation helps. Earn external validation. Coverage from Bloomberg and other major publications drove referral traffic, branded searches, and likely influenced how AI models assess authority. Optimize for user intent. Both sites answered specific queries: “best project management templates” and “how do [brand] interest rates compare?” Models surface content that maps to what users are asking, not content that’s merely well documented. None of this requires llms.txt. All of it drives results. Should you implement an llms.txt file? If you’re a developer tool where AI coding assistants are a primary distribution channel, then yes — token efficiency matters. Your audience is already using agents to interact with documentation. For everyone else, treat llms.txt like a sitemap: useful infrastructure, not a growth lever. It’s good practice to have. It won’t hurt. But the hour spent implementing llms.txt is often better spent restructuring product pages with extractable data, publishing functional assets, fixing technical SEO issues, creating FAQ content, or earning press coverage. Those tactics have shown real ROI in AI discovery. Llms.txt hasn’t — at least not yet. The lesson isn’t that llms.txt is bad. It’s that we’re reaching for control in a system where the rules aren’t written yet. Llms.txt offers that comfort: something concrete, actionable, and familiar, shaped like the web standards we already know. But looking like infrastructure isn’t the same as functioning like infrastructure. Focus on what actually works: Create useful content. Structure it for extraction. Make it technically accessible. Earn external validation. Platforms and formats will change. The fundamentals won’t. View the full article

Make them second nature. By Martin Bissett Go PRO for members-only access to more Martin Bissett. View the full article

Make them second nature. By Martin Bissett Go PRO for members-only access to more Martin Bissett. 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. Today's Bluetooth speakers have features that make them better than they were just a few years ago, from USB-C for universal fast charging, to hi-res audio playback, to serving as battery backup for other devices. The Beats Pill speaker has all these features and more, making it a great choice, and it has dropped in price to $99.95 (down from $149.95), matching the lowest price it has reached since its recent release, according to price-tracking tools. For less than a hundred dollars, this speaker is a steal. Beats Pill - Bluetooth Speaker and Portable Wireless Charger via USB-C - Up to 24 Hours Battery Life, IP67 Water Resistant, Apple & Android Compatible, Built-in Microphone – Campagne Gold $99.95 at Amazon $149.95 Save $50.00 Get Deal Get Deal $99.95 at Amazon $149.95 Save $50.00 I've been trying out the Beats Pill speaker since it came out in summer 2024, and it has everything I could want in a portable speaker: stereo sound when connected to another compatible speaker, multi-room mode to play the same music on multiple speakers, the Find My Device feature in case you misplace it during a rager, and Class 1 Bluetooth for extended range. Apple users will get the most out of the Pill, with seamless iOS compatibility for a smoother experience. (You can read about it in more detail on PCMag's "excellent" review), but this Beats speaker is not just for Apple users: Android users can also connect to it with a Bluetooth 5.3 connection, but it only supports AAC and SBC codecs, so there are no Android-friendly codec options that will make the audio really pop. When it comes to battery life, you can expect around 24 hours per charge, depending on your use, which is comparable to other speakers of its size. It has that classic, bright Beats sound signature, balanced yet bass-heavy. It is rated IP67 dust-proof and waterproof, so it can be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes. The biggest downside is that there is no adjustable EQ within the app, but that's less important when it sounds so great out of the box. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $148.99 (List Price $179.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $399.00 (List Price $429.00) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — (List Price $24.99 With Code "FTV4K25") Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 10.9" 64GB Wi-Fi Tablet (Graphite) — $149.99 (List Price $219.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

Boosting team spirit is essential for a productive work environment, and engaging in fun games can greatly improve collaboration and camaraderie. Activities such as icebreakers, creative challenges, and competitive games create opportunities for team members to connect and communicate effectively. By incorporating these interactive experiences, you can cultivate a more motivated and cohesive workforce. Let’s explore ten effective games that can raise morale and strengthen relationships within your team. Key Takeaways Engage in Two Truths and a Lie to encourage personal storytelling and foster openness among team members. Organize a Virtual Scavenger Hunt, allowing team members to collaborate while finding items in their own spaces within a time limit. Host Office Olympics for friendly competition, enhancing teamwork and boosting morale through fun physical challenges. Implement the Emoji Story Challenge to promote creative storytelling, allowing team members to express ideas using only emojis. Conduct trivia contests to share knowledge and elevate team spirit, while also encouraging friendly competition and collaboration. Icebreaker Games to Get Started How can icebreaker games improve team interactions? Icebreaker games are effective tools for nurturing communication and rapport among team members. Activities like “Two Truths and a Lie” or “Human Bingo” encourage personal storytelling, allowing you to learn interesting facts about your coworkers. When you engage in these fun work games, you create a positive atmosphere that promotes collaboration and engagement right from the start. Research shows that using icebreakers can increase employee satisfaction and team cohesion, enhancing overall workplace morale. By incorporating games to play on Microsoft Teams with coworkers, you make everyone feel more comfortable, leading to an open environment where ideas and opinions are freely shared. Regularly using icebreaker games can greatly improve team dynamics by breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity among diverse team members. This approach eventually sets a strong foundation for effective teamwork and communication. Creative Team-Building Activities What makes creative team-building activities essential for improving workplace dynamics? These activities promote collaboration, improve problem-solving skills, and boost overall team cohesion. Engaging in innovative exercises allows you to think outside the box and strengthen interpersonal relationships. Here are some effective creative team-building activities: Activity Purpose Ideas as Building Blocks Develop solutions to fictional problems Use What You Have Create projects with limited supplies This is Better Than That Analyze scenarios and make strategic decisions Moreover, “Do the Math” encourages teamwork under pressure, whereas “Survival Scenario Planning” helps prioritize resources effectively. By participating in these activities, you not only improve your team’s creativity and resourcefulness but additionally cultivate a stronger, more collaborative work environment. Problem-Solving Challenges Building on the foundation of creative team-building activities, problem-solving challenges take collaboration to the next level by putting teams in scenarios where they must think critically and work together under pressure. These challenges improve critical thinking skills, encouraging teamwork and innovation that can lead to better performance and productivity. Engaging in structured problem-solving activities nurtures a sense of achievement among team members, promoting camaraderie and reinforcing group dynamics. Often, these challenges require teams to work creatively with limited resources, simulating real-world constraints that help develop strategic decision-making abilities. By participating in problem-solving challenges, employees strengthen their interpersonal skills, as effective communication and collaboration are crucial for successful outcomes. Incorporating fun problem-solving challenges into team-building activities can greatly reduce stress and increase overall morale, creating a more positive work environment. In this way, problem-solving challenges become an invaluable tool for improving workplace culture and performance. Fun Competitive Games Even though friendly competition might seem trivial, fun competitive games play a significant role in improving workplace dynamics and productivity. Activities like Office Olympics or Minute to Win It challenges not only entertain but also elevate communication and problem-solving skills. Engaging in these games promotes motivation and engagement among team members, often resulting in a boost in overall productivity, with studies showing up to a 30% increase post-activity. In addition, these experiences create lasting memories and strengthen interpersonal relationships, contributing to a more cohesive team environment. Incorporating competitive elements encourages goal-setting and achievement, making the work experience more enjoyable. Game Type Benefits Example Activity Office Olympics Improves teamwork, boosts morale Relay races Minute to Win It Elevates problem-solving skills Stack Attack challenge Trivia Contests Encourages knowledge sharing Themed trivia night Scavenger Hunts Promotes collaboration Office scavenger hunt Collaborative Projects for Teamwork Collaborative projects are vital for promoting teamwork, and they offer opportunities for creative problem-solving sessions, group brainstorming activities, and team idea sharing. By engaging in these activities, you not merely tap into diverse skill sets but additionally improve communication and trust among team members. Implementing these collaborative efforts regularly can lead to more innovative solutions and enhanced overall performance within your team. Creative Problem-Solving Sessions Creative problem-solving sessions are vital for nurturing teamwork and innovation within any organization. These collaborative projects allow team members to leverage their diverse skills and perspectives, leading to innovative solutions. Here are some key benefits: Improves communication and collaboration, boosting team performance by up to 25%. Promotes creativity and critical thinking, important for tackling complex challenges. Helps identify individual strengths, enabling effective delegation and improved productivity. Regular sessions can greatly increase employee morale and engagement. Contributes to higher retention rates and a positive workplace culture. Group Brainstorming Activities Group brainstorming activities can greatly improve teamwork and innovation within an organization. Engaging in collaborative projects allows your team to cultivate open communication, sharing diverse perspectives that enrich the idea pool. Research shows that teams participating in brainstorming sessions can experience a 21% increase in productivity, thanks to the synergy from collective efforts. Structured brainstorming can additionally help identify underlying issues within team dynamics, promoting a better comprehension of each member’s strengths. By regularly partaking in these activities, you not only boost team spirit but also strengthen interpersonal relationships, which contributes to higher employee morale and job satisfaction. In the end, these collaborative projects lead to innovative solutions and improved problem-solving skills among team members. Team Idea Sharing Engaging in team idea sharing through collaborative projects can markedly boost both creativity and productivity within your organization. Here are some key benefits to reflect on: Cultivates joint ownership of tasks, leading to improved team performance by up to 25%. Encourages diverse perspectives, generating unique solutions and enhancing project outcomes. Strengthens relationships among team members, creating a more cohesive work environment. Leverages individual strengths, resulting in a 21% increase in productivity when team members feel connected. Addresses underlying issues, improving dynamics and nurturing a positive workplace culture that supports morale. Energizing Office Games If you’re looking to improve productivity and team cohesion in the workplace, incorporating energizing office games can be a highly effective strategy. These games boost team morale, leading to a 21% increase in productivity when team members engage through shared experiences. Activities like Minute to Win It challenges utilize everyday office items for quick, competitive fun, encouraging friendly competition and collaboration. Incorporating energizers midway through long meetings helps reset focus and maintain high energy levels, improving information retention. Quick activities, such as office scavenger hunts, encourage teamwork and quick thinking, making work more enjoyable as well as promoting problem-solving skills. Engaging in these energizing games provides a stimulating break from routine tasks, allowing employees to recharge. As a result, they return to work with improved creativity and motivation, ultimately benefiting the entire team. Inclusive Virtual Activities When you think about inclusive virtual activities, consider how engaging icebreakers and creative remote team challenges can improve team cohesion. These activities not just allow everyone, regardless of their location or ability, to participate, but they additionally encourage collaboration and connection among team members. Utilizing platforms for fun games like virtual scavenger hunts or trivia can keep morale high and promote a sense of belonging within your team. Engaging Virtual Icebreakers How can you effectively break the ice in a virtual environment? Engaging virtual icebreakers can greatly improve team spirit, nurturing connections and boosting productivity. Here are some inclusive activities to take into account: Two Truths and a Lie: Share personal stories to promote openness. Guess That Baby: Team members submit baby photos for fun guessing. Emoji Story Challenge: Use emojis to tell a story and have others interpret it. Virtual Scavenger Hunt: Find specific items in your home within a time limit. Show and Tell: Share something meaningful from your workspace. These icebreakers not only set a positive tone for meetings but are also beneficial to a supportive work culture, improving team cohesion and employee morale. Creative Remote Team Challenges Creative remote team challenges can effectively strengthen team bonds and improve collaboration, even in a virtual environment. Activities like virtual scavenger hunts and online trivia games allow team members to engage in a relaxed setting, enhancing cohesion. Implementing virtual escape rooms or brainstorming sessions nurtures creativity and problem-solving skills, leading to a 21% productivity increase. Inclusive activities, such as “Two Truths and a Lie” or “Show and Tell,” encourage everyone’s participation and help build rapport by sharing personal insights. Utilizing digital platforms for these interactive games keeps remote teams engaged and connected, promoting a positive work culture that reduces feelings of isolation. Regularly incorporating these challenges boosts morale, job satisfaction, and can even decrease turnover rates by 36%. Outdoor Team Adventures Outdoor team adventures offer a variety of activities that can improve both physical fitness and workplace relationships. Participating in these challenges promotes collaboration and boosts problem-solving skills among team members. Here are some effective activities to take into account: Team hikes: Encourage fitness during exploration of nature. Obstacle courses: Cultivate teamwork through physical challenges. Outdoor scavenger hunts: Improve strategic planning and communication. Kayaking or canoeing: Develop trust and coordination on water. Camping retreats: Provide opportunities for informal networking. Engaging in these activities can greatly boost morale, with 79% of employees noting that outdoor adventures strengthen workplace relationships. Additionally, these experiences often lead to a 25% increase in performance, as they encourage communication in a relaxed environment. By participating in outdoor adventures, you can break down barriers between departments, nurturing a sense of community and improving overall team dynamics. Quick and Easy Games for Busy Teams After exploring outdoor team adventures, it’s important to recognize that not every team-building activity needs to take place outside or require extensive planning. Quick and easy games can effectively improve team spirit by providing invigorating breaks during busy work schedules. Activities like “Two Truths and a Lie” or “One-Word Story” are ideal, requiring minimal setup and completing in under 10 minutes. These fast-paced games not just boost morale but additionally enhance communication, leading to a 21% increase in productivity as team members connect and collaborate. Incorporating such activities into regular meetings helps maintain high energy levels and engagement, ensuring team bonding is a consistent practice. Utilizing lunchtime or brief gaps between meetings for these games encourages informal interactions, nurturing a positive work culture and stronger relationships among team members. Engaging Activities for Remote Teams How can remote teams stay engaged and connected in light of the physical distance? Implementing interactive activities can promote teamwork and camaraderie among team members. Here are some engaging options to contemplate: Virtual scavenger hunts: Teams race to find items from their homes, promoting quick thinking and collaboration. Icebreaker games: Try “Two Truths and a Lie” to encourage storytelling and personal connections. Video conferencing activities: Play “Pictionary” or virtual trivia to keep energy levels high and spark friendly competition. Brainstorming sessions: Use collaborative platforms to stimulate innovative thinking and improve creative problem-solving skills. Virtual coffee chats: Regular informal sessions can help build community and connection, allowing team members to bond. These activities not only maintain engagement but likewise promote a supportive work environment, ensuring that remote teams feel united regardless of the distance. Frequently Asked Questions What Are Some Games That Encourage Teamwork? To encourage teamwork, consider games like the Human Knot, where participants must untangle themselves without letting go of hands. Bridge Building tasks teams with creating a weight-bearing structure from limited materials, enhancing collaboration. Office Olympics promotes friendly competition through various challenges. A Scavenger Hunt combines physical and mental tasks, whereas Minute to Win It challenges utilize everyday items for quick, engaging activities, cultivating teamwork and communication among participants. What Can You Do to Promote Team Spirit? To promote team spirit, you can organize regular team-building activities, such as workshops or casual gatherings, which encourage open communication and collaboration. Establishing an environment where everyone feels valued nurtures mutual respect. Consider implementing creative challenges or problem-solving tasks that require teamwork, enhancing relationships among team members. Recognizing achievements, both big and small, in addition boosts morale. What Are Some Workplace Games for Fun? You can engage in various workplace games to improve camaraderie and collaboration. Try “Two Truths and a Lie,” where you share personal facts to learn about colleagues. “Office Scavenger Hunts” promote teamwork as you search for items, as well as “Minute to Win It Challenges” offer quick, fun competitions. Human Bingo encourages networking, and Creative Team Jigsaw Puzzles boost problem-solving skills. Each game promotes interaction, communication, and a more connected work environment. Which Game Needs Team Spirit? The game that needs team spirit is the “Human Knot.” In this activity, participants stand in a circle, grab hands with others, and try to untangle themselves without letting go. It requires effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, as team members must strategize together to succeed. This game not just encourages teamwork but additionally improves interpersonal relationships, making it crucial for building a cohesive group dynamic in any setting. Conclusion Incorporating these work games into your team’s routine can greatly improve collaboration and morale. From icebreakers that promote initial connections to problem-solving challenges that stimulate teamwork, each activity serves a distinct purpose. Competitive games can energize your workforce, whereas inclusive virtual options guarantee remote team members feel engaged. By selecting the right activities, you not only create a more cohesive environment but likewise lay the groundwork for improved productivity and communication within your team. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "10 Fun Work Games to Boost Team Spirit" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

For years, leaders have been told that ”being true to themselves” and “ignoring what others think” represent the gold standard of effective leadership, a kind of moral and emotional north star. But in practice, this type of advice often gets leaders into trouble. For a vivid illustration, consider how two famous fictional (yet hyper-realistic) characters, namely Don Draper (Madmen) and Michael Scott (The Office) embody these two mantras. Draper clings to a rigid, unchanging identity, using “this is who I am” as armor to avoid confronting his insecurities, while Scott approaches management with unfiltered candor, oversharing, and acting on impulse. Both believe they are being true to themselves, so others should appreciate it, but in reality they are trapped behind a rigid self-protective shield that excuses poor judgment and blocks growth. The real problem arises not so much from being untrue to themselves, but rather, from mis-calibrating how they show up, mistaking self-expression for effectiveness. Leaders who are reduced to this kind of pattern routinely erode trust, exhaust their teams, and undermine their own influence while sincerely believing they are acting with genuineness and integrity. As psychological research shows, every leader carries internal narratives shaped by early experiences about how to stay safe, earn belonging, or manage uncertainty. These narratives result in behavioral patterns that were once adaptive. But over time, they harden into identity (“this is just who I am”) and limit leaders’ flexibility and versatility. Leaders are therefore presented with a difficult psychological choice, namely: (a) to resist pressures to conform, and act without consideration for what others think, but, in doing so, risk alienating or antagonizing others; or (b) to adjust their behavior to meet the situational demands—mostly, what other people want and need from them—but risk alienating . . . themselves. The question, then, is how leaders can skillfully navigate the intricate balance between their self-expression needs and their obligation to others. To this end, here are a few science-based recommendations to consider: Communicate with greater precision and empathy Leaders don’t struggle because they speak the truth, but because they speak it without intention, timing, or attunement. Balancing candor with empathy is the discipline of telling the truth in ways that preserve dignity, empathy, and trust. Here’s how: Pair honesty with intention. Before speaking hard truths, ask: “What impact do I want this message to have?” Clarifying intent helps you choose language that builds trust rather than simply offloading what’s on your mind. Think of it as an emotional aim: honesty without intention is like firing an arrow without checking what or who is behind the target. Slow the reflex. If you feel urgency to “just say it,” pause. Urgency often signals an activated trigger, not clarity. This is your mind’s equivalent of a car engine revving too hot; giving it a moment prevents you from speeding into the wrong lane. Use that pause to let adrenaline fall and cognition rise. Practice “empathetic accuracy.” Test your instincts by naming what others might feel, then adjust your delivery in service of effectiveness, not self-expression. Great communicators act like emotional cartographers, mapping the terrain before entering it so they know where the cliffs, rivers, and fragile bridges are. Regulate emotion before you express it Vulnerability builds trust only when it is regulated, purposeful, and contained. Grounded vulnerability allows leaders to be real without turning their teams into emotional shock absorbers or co-regulators. Here’s how: Share what is useful, not what is unfiltered. Vulnerability should serve others, not the leader’s emotional relief. Raw disclosure is not always courageous; sometimes it is simply an emotional data dump that burdens the listener. Useful vulnerability, by contrast, is like offering a compass: personal, yes, but handed over with the intent to orient others, not to lighten your own load. Do emotional processing upstream. Use peers, mentors, or therapists as your primary space, not your colleagues. This preserves your team’s psychological safety while still giving you the support you need. Upstream processing allows you to show up composed, thoughtful, and ready to metabolize complexity on behalf of others rather than through them. For example, employees often report feeling “emotionally hijacked” when leaders vent openly about board pressure or uncertainty, unsure whether they are being informed or enlisted as emotional support. Replace unloading with grounding. Before sharing, ask: “Is this helpful to them? Or helpful to me?” Grounding yourself first allows you to express vulnerability as perspective, not pressure. Think of grounding as fastening your oxygen mask before assisting others: when you regulate your own emotional state, your words become stabilizing rather than contagious. Leaders who ground themselves create a conversational climate where honesty feels safe instead of sharp. Balance identity with adaptability Many leaders confuse integrity with sameness. True reliability comes not from repeating the same behaviors, but from expressing the same values with greater responsiveness and emotional range. Here’s how: Redefine consistency. Anchor to values, not behaviors. Values stay largely steady; behaviors can evolve. When leaders treat consistency as performing the same behaviors in every situation, they confuse predictability with rigidity. True consistency comes from being reliably guided by the same principles even as contexts shift. Try 10% adjustments. Micro-flexibility builds confidence without threatening identity. A modest shift in tone, timing, or format can expand your influence far more than sweeping reinventions, demonstrating that authenticity and adaptability can coexist. Name what rigidity protects. When you feel resistant, ask: “What part of me feels endangered right now?” Identifying the fear beneath the resistance opens the door to more adaptive choices. This self-reflection keeps self-expression honest while ensuring that protective impulses do not override responsibilities to the people they lead. Demonstrate values with judgment, not dogma Strong values don’t require rigid postures. Moral maturity allows leaders to stand for what matters while remaining curious, connected, and oriented toward collective impact rather than personal righteousness. Here’s how: Distinguish values from validation. Ask: “Am I standing in a principle or hiding behind it?” This distinguishes conviction from ego. By interrogating whether a stance is truly principle-driven or simply self-affirming, leaders prevent rigid authenticity from becoming a shield for stubbornness. Expand the aperture of “right.” Seek nuance in situations that challenge your certainty. Curiosity reduces the need to treat disagreement as a moral referendum. By widening their interpretive frame, leaders move from defending their identity to understanding the system they are operating in. Prioritize impact over insistence. Sometimes the most ethical choice is the one that maintains relationships, not the one that wins the argument. Insisting on being right can satisfy the ego but damage the social fabric leaders rely on to get things done. In short, if you are interested in being a better leader who is true to her/himself, focus on being your best possible self rather than your unfiltered or uncensored self. Why? Because the less you care about your reputation, the more others will care—and not in a good way. Leadership is fundamentally relational, so leaders’ professional selves must be optimized to the needs of others. People don’t need leaders to share every inner thought but to provide clarity, stability, and a responsible, human presence. Effective leaders prioritize impact over self-expression and treat authenticity as an active, intentional process. By contrast, misguided self-expression creates friction that slows decisions, distorts information, and weakens execution, even in otherwise capable teams. The best leaders commit to continuous improvement and becoming more effective in their roles.​​ This demands self-awareness and emotional intelligence, recognizing what traits to emphasize or adjust to meet the moment’s demands. Instead of unfiltered self-expression, leaders engage in thoughtful self-presentation tailored to the collective needs of their teams and organizations. As a result, leaders’ professional reputation becomes a practiced skill of managing how to show up powerfully while staying true to core values, not a static identity to be discovered or defended at all costs.​ In summary, effective leadership is less about rigid self-identity and more about strategic self-curation aimed at adaptive effectiveness and relational impact. Leaders who understand this evolve beyond trapped patterns and refine themselves to lead with clarity, competence, and integrity. View the full article

A reader writes: My coworker – who is not my boss – is trying to micromanage my projects, and I am having difficulty responding effectively. About six months ago, I was appointed to a leadership position for a well-known nonprofit in my area of expertise. I’ve generally enjoyed the work and feel well-supported, with the exception of one coworker, Linda. Linda is about 10-15 years older than I am, though I have more professional expertise and public-facing engagement in this field. She is in a different department than I am, but she acts as though she thinks I report to her, instead of to my actual boss (who is also her boss) and she constantly wants updates on my projects. A few recent examples: • I spearheaded the launch of a new grant-making initiative this past fall. She wanted updates every week about the application process, the reviews, and the final selection, and then tried to go over my head to our supervisor to insist that a low-scoring proposal by a friend of hers gets leapfrogged to the top. • I’m starting a new educational series for my peers and she wants to know all the nitty-gritty details – not just dates and topics, but detailed talking points, what the run of show is like, what resources will be provided to attendees, etc. She’s also making suggestions that don’t make any sense for this audience. I wouldn’t expect her to know that because she doesn’t have this background training herself, but this is why I was hired! • With my manager’s blessing and letter of recommendation, I applied for and got into a fairly prestigious leadership program, which involves some travel and online webinar commitments. Linda was annoyed to see these out-of-office blocks on my calendar and expressed surprise that I hadn’t told her first. It’s not jealousy that she didn’t get in; she’s not even eligible because it’s only for holders of certain professional degrees, which she doesn’t have. • There’s a huge industry-wide conference every spring. I’ll be there for the first six days, and then leaving for another, smaller conference that’s more in my area of expertise. She expressed frustration that I didn’t tell her about my travel plans earlier. It didn’t even occur to me to clear my travel with anyone other than my supervisor and my direct team! I took this job in part because I was looking to escape a toxic manager at my previous job, and am really not excited about falling back into bad habits. I’ve told Linda both in email and in Teams calls that I appreciate her offers of support but I’ll let her know if and when I need help. But after the incidents above, which all happened within the last week, I think I need to be more forceful and direct. What is the best way for me to navigate this?. We are a mostly remote organization, so I can’t suggest we grab coffee to discuss it, unfortunately. You can read my answer to this letter at New York Magazine today. Head over there to read it. The post my coworker is trying to micromanage my work appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Amid ongoing supply chain disruptions, Oracle has unveiled a new solution designed to bolster retailer operations: Oracle Retail Supply Chain Collaboration. This cloud-based platform promises to help businesses manage supplier relationships, enhance operational efficiency, and improve compliance—all critical elements in today’s unpredictable market. The introduction of this solution arrives at a time when small retailers face myriad challenges, from shifts in consumer demand to compliance with evolving regulations. Oracle’s latest offering addresses these concerns by providing actionable, data-driven insights that empower businesses to navigate supply chain complexities more effectively. The solution enhances operational oversight through improved forecast accuracy and timely alerts regarding potential supply chain disruptions. In a rapidly changing environment, retailers can now anticipate issues and engage suppliers proactively. For instance, if there is an impending change in demand or a regulatory shift that could impact inventory shipments, retailers can issue urgent notifications directly within the system. Such capabilities allow for a more responsive and agile operation, vital for maintaining customer satisfaction and protecting profit margins. As Paul Woodward, global vice president of Oracle Retail Products, remarked, “From natural disasters to shifting global trade conditions, retailers are in a constant battle to better balance their supply chains to meet customer expectations… This solution gives retailers the AI-and data-driven visibility and intelligence needed to navigate complex supply chain and vendor relationships.” A notable feature of the Oracle Retail Supply Chain Collaboration is its integration with the Oracle Retail Merchandising Foundation Cloud Service. This integration streamlines the process for retailers, enabling them to collaborate effectively with suppliers. Retailers can assess production facilities and analyze valuable supplier data right from a unified portal. Such direct collaboration can help in making informed decisions, fostering more strategic and effective merchandising operations. Key benefits for small businesses utilizing Oracle’s new solution include: Enhanced Supplier Coordination: Retailers can better share critical information with suppliers, promoting transparency and effective collaboration. Sustainability and Compliance Focus: Retailers can collect and review sustainability certifications and compliance audits, aiding in high-standard operations while also addressing environmental and social governance (ESG) requirements. Streamlined Operations: By automating the creation and updating of product records, the solution simplifies data synchronization, thus reducing manual errors and workload. Centralized Data Sharing: A single portal allows for more straightforward communication and delegation of responsibilities among suppliers, boosting productivity and efficiency. For small business owners, these features provide a means to enhance their operational strategies. In an environment where every delay can lead to lost sales, the ability to anticipate problems and coordinate promptly could prove invaluable. However, while the benefits are compelling, challenges may arise during the integration of this new system, particularly for smaller retailers with limited resources. Transitioning to a cloud solution requires an initial investment and possibly a learning curve for staff. Business owners might also need to assess how responsive their supply bases can be to the technologies and processes implemented. Increased reliance on technology also raises questions about data security and privacy. Small business owners must ensure that their partner suppliers comply with the necessary standards to avoid potential disruptions. As Oracle showcases this solution at the NRF 2023 event in New York, small business owners have an opportunity to see its capabilities firsthand and explore how it might fit within their operational frameworks. With the right implementation, Oracle Retail Supply Chain Collaboration could empower smaller retailers to respond more adeptly to today’s challenges, protecting margins and enhancing customer satisfaction. For more information, visit the original Oracle press release at Oracle. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Oracle Launches Cloud Solution to Revolutionize Retail Supply Chain Collaboration" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Balancing gut feelings with hard data isn’t a soft skill. It’s a strategic advantage. In an era where AI, automation, and ubiquitous dashboards flood us with metrics, it’s tempting to believe that better spreadsheets alone will yield better decisions. But our most consequential choices rarely emerge from a cell in column D. They arise from an ongoing negotiation between intuition and rational analysis. The paradox is this: as technology becomes more sophisticated at processing information, the human capacity to notice what matters—the intangible signals of opportunity or risk—becomes more valuable. Yet most organizations force a false choice. We either romanticize intuition (“I just know this investment is a winner”) or we bury it under rationalizations (“The model says no”). A healthier—and more innovative—approach is to design for both. The Science Behind the Marriage of Modes Recent research reveals something counterintuitive. According to a Science Direct article about entrepreneurs’ decision making, when entrepreneurs with domain expertise integrate AI-driven analysis with their intuitive insights, they achieve the most balanced outcomes, excelling simultaneously in novelty, depth, and innovation. A controlled study of 124 entrepreneurs found that while AI assistance increased the number of recognized opportunities and the depth of evaluation, it simultaneously reduced novelty and contextual sensitivity. But here’s the interesting thing: sector knowledge and intuitive judgment restored this creative dimension. The entrepreneurs who combined both sources of intelligence outperformed those relying on either alone. Separately, research into human-AI collaboration in decision-making found that expertise in the decision-making domain is a necessary condition for intuition to be effective. Organizations attempting to eliminate intuition in favor of pure analytics often find themselves unable to navigate ill-structured problems—you know, the kind that have no precedent and require human judgment. Conversely, intuition without analytical rigor falls prey to bias and incomplete information. What neuroscience reveals is even more compelling. Research shows that leaders who cultivate interoceptive awareness, which is your ability to sense and interpret internal bodily signals, experience improved self-regulation and more grounded decision-making. A study published in NeuroImage found that individuals with higher interoceptive awareness showed increased activation in the insular cortex during decision-making tasks, suggesting a direct link between bodily awareness and cognitive processes. In other words, learning to read your physical responses during deliberation literally changes how your brain processes information. Redesign How You Think One practical shift is to separate your phases of thinking. In the first phase, privilege expansive, intuitive work: walking meetings, whiteboard sessions, voice notes, even practices like yoga nidra (a guided relaxation technique) or non-sleep deep rest that loosen our grip on linear problem-solving. The job of this phase is not to decide; it’s to notice. What’s tugging at your attention? What feels unexpectedly alive or off? What pattern are you sensing before you can articulate it? This isn’t meditation or mysticism. It’s the recognition that your brain’s pattern-recognition systems, honed by years of experience in your domain, often detect signals faster than your conscious, analytical mind can process them. Honor that system. Later, in a distinct evaluative phase, invite rigor back in. We interrogate assumptions. We ask: What data supports this hunch? What contradicts it? Who would disagree, and on what grounds? Who benefits if this decision goes our way? Who bears the costs? Simply naming that we are in “intuitive mode” or “rational mode” reduces the unspoken power struggle between the two. It also prevents the common organizational mistake I see all the time: abandoning the intuitive insight midway through because the data is messy, or defending an intuitive pull long after contradicting evidence has emerged. Treat Hunches as Hypotheses The next step is to treat intuition as a hypothesis, not a verdict. A gut feeling about a hire, a product direction, or a market pivot can be translated into small, testable experiments. Pilot the idea with a narrow customer segment. Run an A/B test instead of a full rollout. Offer a time-bound consulting or project role before committing to a full-time leader. This shifts the conversation from “Should I trust my instinct?” to “What would I need to see to strengthen or challenge this intuition?” That’s rigor without self-betrayal. It’s also how learning accelerates. You’re not choosing between data and gut; you’re using data to train your gut. The Interoceptive Edge Of course, not all gut feelings are wisdom. Some are simply our biases wearing a confident costume. This is where building interoceptive awareness matters. Paying attention to how your body feels before and after major decisions can, over time, distinguish between expansive intuition and constricting fear. Research on interoceptive training demonstrates that after just one week of focused practice, participants showed enhanced interoceptive accuracy and significantly more rational decision-making. They also reported reductions in anxiety and somatic symptoms. The implication for leaders is clear: developing the capacity to read your internal signals isn’t indulgent—it’s foundational. Consider keeping a brief “intuition log”: What did I feel? What did I decide? How did it turn out? Are there patterns? You’re effectively training your inner instrument. Over time, you become more reliable at distinguishing between a genuine signal and noise. Counter Implicit Bias To counter cultural and implicit bias, organizations need deliberate friction in decision-making. Research on affinity bias (our tendency to favor people similar to us) reveals that this bias operates silently and persistently. One study found that male candidates are 1.5 times more likely to advance to screening than equally qualified women. More broadly, diverse teams outperform homogeneous ones on measures of innovation, problem-solving, and financial returns, yet affinity bias remains one of the most common barriers to building such teams. Designate someone in key meetings to challenge assumptions: How might affinity bias be shaping this decision? If this candidate or idea looked nothing like our past successes, would we still be excited? Would we hire or promote this person if they came from a different background? If this market opportunity came from a woman rather than a man proposing it, would we fund it? Pairing intuitive pulls with structured dissent helps ensure we’re not just re-inscribing “this is how we do things around here.” It also reveals when our intuition is actually convenience masquerading as wisdom. The “Both/And” Decision Framework Ultimately, the goal is a “both/and” review of major decisions. On one side of the page: data, constraints, risks, what the models say. On the other: gut feel, emotional tone, bodily cues, pattern recognition from experience, what feels alive. Include the assumptions that underlie each. Include the people who would gain and lose with each choice. The closing question is simple: Given both columns, what is the smallest, most reversible next step? Make It Visible When leaders narrate this process out loud—”Here’s what my intuition is telling me, here’s what the data says, and here’s how I’m reconciling them”—then they normalize a culture where neither spreadsheets nor gut checks are taboo. This transparency also models the kind of thinking that develops over time. Junior leaders see that confidence isn’t about certainty; it’s about integrating multiple sources of information and taking action despite genuine uncertainty. In the imagination era, where ideas are our true currency and markets move faster than data can track the shifts, the organizations that thrive won’t be those that worship logic or intuition alone. They’ll be those that have the courage and discipline to let them dance. View the full article

The smaller firm gets a say, so decide what you want. By Marc Rosenberg The Rosenberg Practice Management Library Go PRO for members-only access to more Marc Rosenberg. View the full article

The smaller firm gets a say, so decide what you want. By Marc Rosenberg The Rosenberg Practice Management Library Go PRO for members-only access to more Marc Rosenberg. View the full article

Curving walls of clay brick and the dappled light of a forest canopy make up the design of the 2026 Serpentine Pavilion, the annual architectural installation that has become one of the field’s most prestigious commissions. This year’s pavilion is being designed by Isabel Abascal and Alessandro Arienzo of LANZA atelier, a Mexico City-based architecture studio. An annual installation outside the Serpentine art gallery in London’s Kensington Park that is freely open to the public from June through October, the Serpentine Pavilion is high-brow design that’s unusually accessible. Isabel AbascalAlessandro Arienzo Hitting the premise on the nose, LANZA atelier’s design was inspired by a common English architectural feature known as a “serpentine” or a “crinkle-crankle” that uses a gently curving line of bricks to form a decorative wall. For the Serpentine Pavilion, the architects lined one side of the structure with this serpentine wall, built just a single brick wide. An architectural trick, the wall’s curves provide stability through lateral support, making it need fewer bricks than if the wall were straight. Inside, the pavilion evokes the trees of the surrounding park with a series of brick columns—also a single brick wide—supporting a semi-transparent roof. Bricks also make up the floor surface, making the interior a thoroughly earthy experience. This single material’s dominance is only broken by its white-painted metal frame lattice roof, which bounces light into the space. Its curvaceous form creates niches within the pavilion while also forming portals to the park and to the Serpentine gallery nearby. The Serpentine Pavilion has been an architectural event for 25 years, serving as both a showcase and a creative outlet for emerging architects and artists. One of the highest-profile commissions in the field, the Serpentine Pavilion has been designed by an A-list of designers since its first iteration, including Pritzker Prize–winning architects Zaha Hadid, Rem Koolhaas, Peter Zumthor, and Diébédo Francis Kéré, and artists Ai Weiwei, Theaster Gates, and Olafur Eliasson. The Serpentine Pavilion is a global stage for LANZA atelier, a small office founded in 2015. The firm’s built works include several private homes, a children’s community center, and minimal yet elegant public bathroom. The 2026 Serpentine Pavilion will open to the public June 6. View the full article

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Tuesday morning that banks should focus on the sweeping deregulation the administration has enacted as the industry pushes back on President The President's proposed 10% credit card interest rate cap. View the full article

Greenland may be at the center of international affairs, but the crypto markets are in the red to kick off the holiday-shortened week. Tuesday morning, Bitcoin was trading at around $91,000, which was down around 4.5% over the past five days. It had been trading around $95,000, but took a tumble late Sunday evening, suddenly falling to less than $93,000, and trended downward early Tuesday. Ethereum, or ETH, followed a similar trajectory: ETH values are down almost 8% over the past five days, and are currently trading just north of $3,000. XRP did the same and, as of Tuesday morning, is down roughly 7%. In all, the crypto market is down more than 3% since Monday, per the CoinDesk 20, a crypto market index. Other markets are also seeing a slight downturn, though not as large as crypto. The S&P 500, for example, was down almost 1.5% as Tuesday’s trading commenced. As for the catalyst? Geopolitical tensions appear to be at the center of things, with President The President issuing threats of new tariffs on European countries over the weekend. That threat comes in response to The President’s desire to acquire Greenland from Denmark, which Denmark, and the rest of Europe, have balked at. Specifically, The President threatened new 10% tariffs on Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Those tariffs would commence on February 1. The President also said the tariffs would rise to 25% at the beginning of June if Denmark does not agree to negotiate some sort of transfer of Greenland to the U.S. European Union leaders responded Tuesday morning as the back-and-forth continues. “The European Union and the United States have agreed to a trade deal last July,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. “And in politics as in business, a deal is a deal. And when friends shake hands, it must mean something.” It’s likely that as long as the testy situation continues, crypto and other markets could experience volatility. View the full article

At the end of last year, we put a call out to the Freelancers Union community, asking our members for their favorite accomplishments of 2025. It didn't necessarily have to be the "biggest" or "best" accomplishment — though it certainly could be — but whatever their favorite accomplishment was. Read on below for these achievements shared by our members; hopefully their proudest moments of the year will inspire you to celebrate of your own, and consider what you want to achieve in 2026. "My favorite accomplishment of 2025 was finally turning twenty years of research into something tangible. I've spent my career exploring how health (mental, physical, chronic conditions, life circumstances) shapes creative work. This year I built a framework and assessment tool that helps artists, writers, and makers understand those patterns in their own practice. I'm rebranding it for 2026 to serve both individual creatives and creative teams in businesses. It's terrifying to launch something so personal, but also exciting. I also wrote what I've been calling my "Mary Poppins letter" about being a 45-year-old multidisciplinary freelancer who doesn't fit neatly into job categories. Watching it resonate with so many others reminded me that the weird, winding career paths are often the richest ones." - Kathryn Vercillo "I wrote a short comedy which the cast had fun reading. (I think this one is actually funny.)" - Linda Rogers, Playwright "While I think this was a challenging year for myself and many freelancers in video and photography production, there are still reasons to celebrate. Some of my highlights from 2025 include: (13) new clients, the return of some previous clients, a 3-day cycling shoot in the SF Bay Area for Modern Adventure, being interviewed on The Great Big Photography World Podcast, and another year of getting to do what I love!" - Jay Watson, photographer, San Francisco, CA "For the past eight years, I have worked as a long-term freelance illustrator and animator for a client, producing weekly content in an established brand style. This year, I was invited to reimagine and evolve the brand's visual identity. After collaborative exploration, we successfully launched a new, distinctive aesthetic. Where we landed was unexpectedly weird, wonderful and all mine :) Six months later, this visual evolution—paired with a refreshed tone in copywriting—has significantly increased audience engagement. I'm grateful to have a client that trusts and respects my expertise and allows me the freedom to explore." - Craig Hansen "My favorite accomplishment of 2025 is merely surviving with my mental health intact...This was a year of 'firsts' for me. Not only did I have my first ZERO income year where nearly every proposal was completely ghosted. My parked car was totaled in a swanky NYC garage. My shower leaked necessitating a full gut renovation of my bathroom... But my most high profile client, a commercial airline for whom I designed the identity system, is the subject of much controversy as a contractor for homeland security flying deportation charters for ICE(!)I wrote about it, spoke to Fast Company about it, and presented a lecture on design and ethics centered around it, which I am planning to take on tour in 2026. The fact that I am still here and standing upright is a testament to the resilience it requires to face the reality of existence in its entirety without rejecting the bad parts and dwelling only on the good ones." - Kim B. "Started the year feeling lost in my career, working a survival job as a nanny to make ends meet while I navigated a collapsing entertainment industry. Decided to go full-time as a freelancer, and over the course of this year have built up enough momentum to QUIT MY SURVIVAL JOB, YAY!!! I haven't pulled the trigger just yet (I'm targeting an early January end date), but even just knowing that the transition is in progress and I'm just waiting on my first big retainer client check to clear before I give notice is a huge win in and of itself. I'm also proud of all the work I've done to educate myself about creative entrepreneurship. I've taken a bunch of classes and workshops through Freelancers Union (I think my favorite was probably "Business Entities for Creatives"), the Entertainment Community Fund, and more. I've also gotten set up with my local SBDC and have been working with a bunch of advisors to set myself up for success. I now have a Business License, EIN, and DBA/FBN (none of which I had back in January). I'm so glad I decided to ask for help! It has made all the difference in the world." - Carrie S. "My favorite accomplishment of 2025 is the publication of the Allcento Tarot deck that I created which is now being sold world-wide! Most tarot decks have 78 cards. However, the Alicento includes additional cards from some of the earliest tarot decks including all 7 virtues, zodiac cards, and other lesser known cards to create a unique, 100-card tarot illustrated in a bold, whimsical style that has gotten rave reviews from both tarot novices as well as expert esotericists. The cards are packed full of symbolism from various tarot traditions (including the Marseille, Minchiate, RWS, Thoth, and more). The more you know, the more you will see!" - Michael J. Auger "I'll share that my biggest 2025 accomplishment was winning my very first journalism award. It was quite a small award (First Place in the Specialty Articles: Green/Environmental category of the National Federation of Press Women Communications Contest). But firsts are always notable, and it was validating as I continue to try to make a journalism career happen against the odds." - Elyse Hauser This year was my highest revenue earned, doubling last yearStarted saving for retirement again thanks to New Street AdvisorsTraveled to Alaska for the first time with my husband Completed a professional development goal to attend an industry specific conference once per quarter (Notary) Initiated full migration to Google WorkspacePromoted to President for our local Business Resource Group to support the Wisconsin Notary CommunitySurpassed 60 reviews on Google! Hired contractors to help scale my business (of course using the contract generator to help put contracts in place)Leased a second office And most importantly... seeing the growth I've had in my life both personally and professionally. -Stephanie Stevens-Khan View the full article

At the end of last year, we put a call out to the Freelancers Union community, asking our members for their favorite accomplishments of 2025. It didn't necessarily have to be the "biggest" or "best" accomplishment — though it certainly could be — but whatever their favorite accomplishment was. Read on below for these achievements shared by our members; hopefully their proudest moments of the year will inspire you to celebrate of your own, and consider what you want to achieve in 2026. "My favorite accomplishment of 2025 was finally turning twenty years of research into something tangible. I've spent my career exploring how health (mental, physical, chronic conditions, life circumstances) shapes creative work. This year I built a framework and assessment tool that helps artists, writers, and makers understand those patterns in their own practice. I'm rebranding it for 2026 to serve both individual creatives and creative teams in businesses. It's terrifying to launch something so personal, but also exciting. I also wrote what I've been calling my "Mary Poppins letter" about being a 45-year-old multidisciplinary freelancer who doesn't fit neatly into job categories. Watching it resonate with so many others reminded me that the weird, winding career paths are often the richest ones." - Kathryn Vercillo "I wrote a short comedy which the cast had fun reading. (I think this one is actually funny.)" - Linda Rogers, Playwright "While I think this was a challenging year for myself and many freelancers in video and photography production, there are still reasons to celebrate. Some of my highlights from 2025 include: (13) new clients, the return of some previous clients, a 3-day cycling shoot in the SF Bay Area for Modern Adventure, being interviewed on The Great Big Photography World Podcast, and another year of getting to do what I love!" - Jay Watson, photographer, San Francisco, CA "For the past eight years, I have worked as a long-term freelance illustrator and animator for a client, producing weekly content in an established brand style. This year, I was invited to reimagine and evolve the brand's visual identity. After collaborative exploration, we successfully launched a new, distinctive aesthetic. Where we landed was unexpectedly weird, wonderful and all mine :) Six months later, this visual evolution—paired with a refreshed tone in copywriting—has significantly increased audience engagement. I'm grateful to have a client that trusts and respects my expertise and allows me the freedom to explore." - Craig Hansen "My favorite accomplishment of 2025 is merely surviving with my mental health intact...This was a year of 'firsts' for me. Not only did I have my first ZERO income year where nearly every proposal was completely ghosted. My parked car was totaled in a swanky NYC garage. My shower leaked necessitating a full gut renovation of my bathroom... But my most high profile client, a commercial airline for whom I designed the identity system, is the subject of much controversy as a contractor for homeland security flying deportation charters for ICE(!)I wrote about it, spoke to Fast Company about it, and presented a lecture on design and ethics centered around it, which I am planning to take on tour in 2026. The fact that I am still here and standing upright is a testament to the resilience it requires to face the reality of existence in its entirety without rejecting the bad parts and dwelling only on the good ones." - Kim B. "Started the year feeling lost in my career, working a survival job as a nanny to make ends meet while I navigated a collapsing entertainment industry. Decided to go full-time as a freelancer, and over the course of this year have built up enough momentum to QUIT MY SURVIVAL JOB, YAY!!! I haven't pulled the trigger just yet (I'm targeting an early January end date), but even just knowing that the transition is in progress and I'm just waiting on my first big retainer client check to clear before I give notice is a huge win in and of itself. I'm also proud of all the work I've done to educate myself about creative entrepreneurship. I've taken a bunch of classes and workshops through Freelancers Union (I think my favorite was probably "Business Entities for Creatives"), the Entertainment Community Fund, and more. I've also gotten set up with my local SBDC and have been working with a bunch of advisors to set myself up for success. I now have a Business License, EIN, and DBA/FBN (none of which I had back in January). I'm so glad I decided to ask for help! It has made all the difference in the world." - Carrie S. "My favorite accomplishment of 2025 is the publication of the Allcento Tarot deck that I created which is now being sold world-wide! Most tarot decks have 78 cards. However, the Alicento includes additional cards from some of the earliest tarot decks including all 7 virtues, zodiac cards, and other lesser known cards to create a unique, 100-card tarot illustrated in a bold, whimsical style that has gotten rave reviews from both tarot novices as well as expert esotericists. The cards are packed full of symbolism from various tarot traditions (including the Marseille, Minchiate, RWS, Thoth, and more). The more you know, the more you will see!" - Michael J. Auger "I'll share that my biggest 2025 accomplishment was winning my very first journalism award. It was quite a small award (First Place in the Specialty Articles: Green/Environmental category of the National Federation of Press Women Communications Contest). But firsts are always notable, and it was validating as I continue to try to make a journalism career happen against the odds." - Elyse Hauser This year was my highest revenue earned, doubling last yearStarted saving for retirement again thanks to New Street AdvisorsTraveled to Alaska for the first time with my husband Completed a professional development goal to attend an industry specific conference once per quarter (Notary) Initiated full migration to Google WorkspacePromoted to President for our local Business Resource Group to support the Wisconsin Notary CommunitySurpassed 60 reviews on Google! Hired contractors to help scale my business (of course using the contract generator to help put contracts in place)Leased a second office And most importantly... seeing the growth I've had in my life both personally and professionally. -Stephanie Stevens-Khan View the full article

The US is no longer predictable nor bound by any fundamental principles of actionView the full article

The Sundance Film Festival may be a little bittersweet this year. It will be familiar in some ways as it kicks off on Thursday in Park City, Utah. There will be stars, from Natalie Portman to Charli XCX, and breakout discoveries, tearjerkers, comedies, thrillers, oddities that defy categorization and maybe even a few future Oscar nominees. The pop ups and sponsors will be out in full force on Main Street. The lines to get into the 90 movies premiering across 10 days will be long and the volunteers will be endlessly helpful and cheery in subfreezing temperatures. But the country’s premier showcase for independent film is also in a time of profound transition after decades of relative stability. The festival is bidding farewell to its longtime home and forging forward without its founder, Robert Redford, who died in September. Next year, it must find its footing in another mountain town, Boulder, Colorado. Celebrating the legacy of Robert Redford and his creation It’s no surprise that legacy will be a through-line at this year’s final edition in Park City. There will be screenings of restored Sundance gems like “Little Miss Sunshine,” “Mysterious Skin,” “House Party” and “Humpday” as well as Redford’s first truly independent film, the 1969 sports drama “Downhill Racer.” Many will also pay tribute to Redford at the institute’s fundraising event, where honorees include Chloé Zhao, Ed Harris and Nia DaCosta. “Sundance has always been about showcasing and fostering independent movies in America. Without that, so many filmmakers wouldn’t have had the careers they have,” said “Mysterious Skin” filmmaker Gregg Araki. He first attended the festival in 1992 and has been back many times, including at the labs where Zhao was one of his students. Quite a few festival veterans are planning to make the trip, including “Navalny” filmmaker Daniel Roher. His first Sundance in 2022 might have been a bit unconventional (made fully remote at the last minute due to the pandemic) but ended on a high note with an Oscar. This year he’s back with two films, his narrative debut “Tuner,” and the world premiere of “The AI Doc: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist,” which he co-directed with Charlie Tyrell. “We’re going through a weird moment in the world … There’s something that strikes me about an institution that has been evergreen, that seems so entrenched going through its own transition and rebirth,” Roher told The Associated Press. “I’m choosing to frame this year as a celebration of Sundance and the institute and a future that will ensure the festival goes on forever and ever and ever and stays the vital conduit for so many filmmakers that it has been.” Over the past four decades, countless careers have been shaped and boosted by the festival and the Institute. Three of this year’s presumed Oscar nominees — Paul Thomas Anderson, Ryan Coogler and Zhao — are among those the Institute supported early in their careers. Jay Duplass, who first came to Sundance in 2003 with his brother, Mark, with what he calls a “$3 film” said it was the place where his career was made. “I’d probably be a psychologist right now if it wasn’t for Sundance,” Duplass said. While he’s been to “probably 15 Sundances” since, it hasn’t lost its luster. In fact, when a programmer called him to tell him that his new film “See You When I See You” was selected, he cried. The film is based on a memoir in which a young comedy writer (Cooper Raiff) attempts to process the death of his sister (Kaitlyn Dever). It’s one of many films that finds humor amid grim subjects. Bold swings, comedies and Hollywood stars As always, the lineup is full of starry films as well, including Cathy Yan’s art world satire, “The Gallerist,” starring Portman, Jenna Ortega, Sterling K. Brown, Zach Galifianakis and Da’Vine Joy Randolph. The romantic drama “Carousel,” from Rachel Lambert, features Chris Pine and Jenny Slate as high school exes who rekindle their romance later in life. Araki is also bringing a new film, “I Want Your Sex,” in which Olivia Wilde plays a provocative artist (Araki described as a cross between Madonna and Robert Mapplethorpe) who takes on Cooper Hoffman as her younger muse. “It’s kind of a sex-positive love letter to Gen Z,” Araki said. “It’s a comedy. It has elements of mystery, thriller, murder — a little bit of ‘Sunset Boulevard’ … it’s fun, it’s colorful, it’s sexy. It’s a ride.” Wilde also steps behind the camera for “The Invite,” in which she stars alongside Seth Rogen as a couple whose marriage disintegrates over the course of an evening. Olivia Colman is a fisherwoman looking to make the perfect husband in “Wicker,” co-starring Alexander Skarsgård. Zoey Deutch plays a Midwestern bride-to-be seeking out her celebrity “free pass” (Jon Hamm) in the screwball comedy “Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass.” And Ethan Hawke and Russell Crowe lead the Depression-era crime drama “The Weight.” Pop star and noted cinephile Charli XCX will also be out and about, starring in the self-referential mockumentary “The Moment,” and appearing in “The Gallerist” and “I Want Your Sex” as well. Documentaries about celebrities and urgent subjects The 2026 festival features a robust lineup of documentaries too, which have a good track record of snagging eventual Oscar nominations and wins. There are a handful of films about famous faces, including basketball star Brittney Griner, Courtney Love, Salman Rushdie, Billie Jean King, Nelson Mandela and comedian Maria Bamford. Others delve into newsy subjects past and present, like “When A Witness Recants,” in which author Ta-Nehisi Coates revisits the case of the 1983 murder of a boy in his Baltimore middle school and learns the truth. “American Doctor” follows three professionals trying to help in Gaza. “Who Killed Alex Odeh” examines the 1985 assassination of a Palestinian American activist in Southern California. “Everybody To Kenmure Street” is about civil resistance to deportations in Glasgow in 2021. And “Silenced” tracks international human rights lawyer Jennifer Robinson in her fight against the weaponization of defamation laws against victims of gender violence. And some don’t fit into any easy category, like “The History of Concrete” in which filmmaker John Wilson takes what he learned at a “how to sell a Hallmark movie” seminar and tries to apply it to a documentary on concrete. Saying goodbye to Main Street There might be a bit of wistfulness in the air too, as everyone takes stock of the last Sundance in Park City and tries to imagine what Boulder might hold. “It feels very special to be part of the last one in Park City,” Duplass said. “It’s just a super special place where, you know there are going to be movies there with giant stars and there’s also going to be some kids there who made movies for a few thousand dollars. And they’re all going to mix.” Araki, like Redford, knew long ago that the festival had outgrown Park City. It will be strange to no longer have its iconic locations like Egyptian Theatre and Eccles and The Ray anymore, but it’s also just a place. “The legacy and the tradition of Sundance will continue no matter where it is,” Araki said. For more coverage of the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/sundance-film-festival —Lindsey Bahr, AP Film Writer View the full article

This month, American shopping malls received another nail in the coffin. Francesca’s, the women’s fashion and accessories chain, has reportedly quietly begun shutting down all its stores. Here’s what you need to know. What’s happened? The women’s fashion and accessories chain Francesca’s has reportedly begun the process of going out of business, which will involve shutting down all of its stores. The news of the closures was first reported by Women’s Wear Daily. Per that report, a customer service representative confirmed it is currently closing all its stores, with liquidation sales underway. However, the chain has not broadly announced the news. Fast Company has reached out to Francesca’s for comment. An automated recording on the company’s customer service line said all associates were busy. Emails to Francesca’s went unreturned. We’ll update this post if we hear back. The woman’s fashion chain was once ubiquitous in shopping malls across the country. Founded in 1999, the retailer rose to prominence during the early 2000s as malls were at the height of their cultural relevance just before online competitors began to reshape the shopping landscape. In 2011, Francesca’s debuted as a publicly traded company on the Nasdaq, but by 2020, the retailer was facing severe financial struggles, not helped by the onset of Covid-19 lockdowns and the decline in mall foot traffic. That year, the company filed for bankruptcy and was delisted from the Nasdaq. After exiting bankruptcy, the chain attempted a comeback, and even now its website lists 457 boutique stores in 45 states that employ more than 3,400 individuals. But Francesca’s has struggled over the past few years, incurring significant debt. One vendor told Women’s Wear Daily that Francesca’s owes approximately $250 million in unpaid invoices. What has Francesca’s said about its shutdown? As of the time of this writing, Francesca’s hasn’t made public comments about its going out of business. Currently, its website continues to operate as normal, with no mention of store closings. The only information on the website that even implies its stores are closing is its updated Return Policy page, which now states that “As of January 14, 2026, all sales are final.” It also says that gift card sales are final and gift cards won’t be returned. Employees were also reportedly blindsided by the shutdown, with a source telling Women’s Wear Daily that merchants were laid off last week “with no warning.” Which Francesca’s stores are closing? Reportedly, all of them. When stores close, they usually only keep their doors open until all their remaining inventory has been liquidated. Francesca’s shoppers looking for good deals in liquidation sales are advised to contact the store directly before heading there to confirm it is still open. When are Francesca’s stores closing? It was not immediately clear when all this will happen. As of Monday, Francesca’s was still posting on Instagram as if everything were normal, although it is being inundated with questions from users about the reported closures. Mall retailers have had a bad year Unfortunately, Francesca’s is not the only mall retailer to have faced financial struggles over the last 12 months. In the first half of 2025, fast-fashion retailer Forever 21 closed hundreds of locations in America. And in August, teen and tween fashion and accessory chain Claire’s also decided to shutter hundreds of stores. The story behind such closures is the same for many retailers involved: rising costs, consumers who are increasingly more choosy about where and what they spend their money on, and foot traffic that never fully recovered after the Covid-19 pandemic. View the full article

If you’re a retailer looking to source craft materials, identifying reliable wholesale suppliers is essential. Moda Fabrics + Supplies and QT Fabrics offer extensive fabric selections customized for independent shops. Checker Distributors stands out with over 125,000 items available, whereas Brewer and Tacony provide high-quality fabrics and tools. Comprehending the strengths of these suppliers can greatly impact your business. Let’s explore these top seven suppliers and discover how they can meet your crafting needs. Key Takeaways Moda Fabrics + Supplies: Specializes in quilting and sewing, supporting independent fabric shops with a diverse selection of over 160 pages of unique fabrics. Checker Distributors: Known for reliable service and an extensive product range of over 125,000 items, catering specifically to fabric store owners. Brewer: Offers high-quality fabrics from renowned designers, ensuring a comprehensive selection of crafting supplies and tools for retailers. Tacony: Provides competitive pricing on a broad selection of high-quality fabrics, with global shipping options for small retailers. QT Fabrics: Offers diverse original 100% cotton fabrics, regularly updating collections to align with trends and promote small business growth. Moda Fabrics + Supplies In relation to sourcing quality fabric for quilting and sewing, many shop owners turn to Moda Fabrics + Supplies, a company established in 1975. Known for its extensive catalog, Moda offers over 160 pages of fabric selections, collaborating with both independent and in-house designers to guarantee a unique variety. This commitment to craftsmanship makes them a trusted partner for fabric retailers. Moda focuses exclusively on the crafter wholesale market, avoiding direct sales to consumers, which helps independent fabric shops thrive without competition. Checker Distributors When you consider Checker Distributors, you’re looking at a supplier with an extensive product range that includes over 125,000 items, catering particularly to businesses like independent fabric shops. Their partnerships with well-known brands such as Robert Kaufman and Riley Blake improve your inventory options considerably. With a trusted industry reputation built since 1948, you can count on Checker Distributors for reliable service and high-quality craft materials. Extensive Product Range Checker Distributors stands out in the craft supply market with an impressive inventory of over 125,000 items, catering to a wide range of crafting needs. You’ll find everything from quilting materials to a variety of fabrics and craft supplies, ensuring you can meet your customers’ diverse demands. This distributor is particularly known for popular fabric brands like Robert Kaufman and Riley Blake, which are vital for independent shop owners. With such a vast selection, you can easily source the materials needed for various crafting projects. Checker Distributors additionally provides easy access to high-quality products, which is fundamental for retailers aiming to maintain a competitive edge. Their extensive inventory supports your business and improves your offerings to customers. Trusted Industry Reputation With decades of experience in the industry, Checker Distributors has established itself as a trusted partner for craft retailers and independent shop owners. Founded in 1948, it’s one of the oldest fabric distributors, showcasing extensive reliability. You’ll find over 125,000 products, including quilting, fabric, and various craft supplies, making it a thorough resource for your inventory needs. They offer popular fabric brands like Robert Kaufman and Riley Blake, ensuring you have access to a diverse selection. As a family-owned business, Checker Distributors has built a solid reputation for excellent service and support, particularly for independent retailers and online shops. Their established presence in the fabric industry reinforces their status as a reliable source for quality craft materials. Brewer Since 1914, Brewer has solidified its reputation as a reliable supplier in the fabric industry, providing a wide array of crafting supplies, sewing machines, and patterns. Their extensive collection features high-quality fabrics from renowned designers like Kaffe Fassett and Tula Pink, catering to various crafting needs. You’ll appreciate Brewer’s user-friendly website, which offers easy access to fabric prices, helping you plan effective pricing strategies for your business. As a one-stop-shop supplier, Brewer suits both independent retailers and online sellers seeking quality materials. High-quality fabrics from Dior All-encompassing selection of crafting supplies and tools Efficient online platform for price access and planning With over a century of experience, Brewer remains a trustworthy choice in the crafting community. Tacony Established in 1946, Tacony has grown from a company focused on selling sewing machines into a thorough wholesale fabric supplier. This family-owned business understands the unique needs of small retailers and offers global shipping, ensuring that fabric stores have access to a wide variety of options. Tacony has developed its own sewing brand, Tacony Sewing Central, which improves its portfolio for craft and sewing enthusiasts. With decades of experience, Tacony has built a solid reputation in the fabric industry. They provide competitive pricing and a broad selection of high-quality fabrics, catering particularly to independent shop owners and online retailers. Whether you’re looking for cottons, blends, or specialty fabrics, Tacony is a reliable choice for your wholesale needs. QT Fabrics When you’re looking for diverse fabric designs, QT Fabrics stands out as a reliable supplier with a rich history dating back to 1807. They offer a wide range of patterns through collaborations with talented designers, ensuring you have access to the latest styles. Plus, their global supply capabilities mean that you can source high-quality fabrics no matter where your business is situated. Diverse Fabric Designs Offered QT Fabrics stands out in the wholesale fabric market by offering an extensive selection of diverse fabric designs that cater to a wide range of customer preferences. With a rich history dating back to 1807, QT Fabrics combines tradition with innovation. Their fabrics are created by both in-house designers and licensed artists, ensuring you have a multitude of choices. Regular updates to their inventory keep your options fresh and appealing. Unique patterns and prints suitable for various projects High-quality materials that improve durability Seasonal collections that reflect current trends This commitment to variety and quality makes QT Fabrics a trusted partner for independent retailers looking to stock their stores with premium fabric options. Global Supply Capabilities With over two centuries of experience in the wholesale fabric industry, QT Fabrics has developed robust global supply capabilities that effectively meet the needs of retailers around the world. Their extensive expertise in fabric sourcing guarantees that independent retailers have consistent inventory availability. QT Fabrics collaborates with both in-house designers and licensors, regularly updating their diverse range of fabric designs to cater to various market preferences. This commitment to quality and innovation positions QT Fabrics as a valuable partner for businesses looking to improve their fabric selections. Feature Description Benefit Global Reach Supplies stores worldwide Reliable inventory availability Diverse Designs Regularly updated patterns Caters to different market needs Quality Assurance Commitment to high standards Boosts customer satisfaction Island Batik Island Batik stands out in the fabric industry, offering a remarkable selection of high-quality cotton and rayon batik fabrics that draw inspiration from Indonesian culture. Established in 1998, Island Batik features over 1,500 unique designs, guaranteeing you find something perfect for your quilting and sewing projects. The company collaborates with various designers to provide a diverse range of fabrics while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices in production. Exclusive distribution through wholesale channels supports independent fabric shops. Global reach guarantees a reliable inventory of culturally-inspired materials. A focus on high-quality craftsmanship assures durability and beauty in your creations. With Island Batik, you can confidently choose fabrics that improve your projects as you support ethical practices. Benartex Benartex has established itself as a prominent player in the fabric market since its founding in 1980, providing a diverse array of original 100% cotton fabrics designed by renowned artists such as Nancy Halvorsen and Amanda Murphy. The company focuses on supporting independent retailers, steering clear of large chain stores to help small businesses thrive with unique inventory options. By regularly refreshing its fabric collections, Benartex keeps its offerings fresh and aligned with current trends in the quilting and crafting communities. Known for its commitment to quality, the supplier delivers beautifully designed fabrics that cater to the diverse needs of fabric store owners and crafters alike. With a strong reputation, Benartex is a reliable partner for improving fabric store inventory quality. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Best Crafting Supplies for Beginners? To start crafting, you’ll need some crucial supplies. Begin with scissors, glue, and various paper types, which you can find at stores like Michaels. Consider adding a cutting mat and craft knife for precision cutting, available on Amazon. Explore craft kits designed for beginners, often found at Target, which provide guided projects. Don’t forget versatile materials like washi tape and acrylic paints, easily accessible at craft supply stores for diverse creative projects. What Are Arts and Crafts Supplies? Arts and crafts supplies include a variety of materials and tools crucial for creative projects. These can range from fabrics, paints, and papers to adhesives and embellishments. Common items you might use are yarn, beads, markers, scissors, and sewing notions. By categorizing supplies based on project types, like scrapbooking or knitting, you can easily find what you need for your DIY endeavors, making your crafting experience more efficient and enjoyable. What Do You Need for Crafts? For crafting, you need a variety of materials customized to your projects. Crucial supplies include paper for scrapbooking, beads and wires for jewelry, and paints or canvases for artwork. Quality tools, such as scissors, cutting mats, and sewing machines, improve precision. Don’t forget embellishments like ribbons, buttons, and stickers to personalize your creations. By having these items on hand, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle a range of crafting projects efficiently. Conclusion In conclusion, partnering with reputable wholesale suppliers like Moda Fabrics + Supplies, Checker Distributors, and others can greatly improve your craft business. Each supplier offers unique advantages, from extensive fabric selections to high-quality tools. By establishing strong relationships with these suppliers, you can guarantee a steady supply of materials, which is essential for meeting customer demands and staying competitive. Consider exploring these options to support your retail needs and cultivate growth within the crafting community. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Top 7 Wholesale Suppliers You Need to Know for Craft Materials" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

If you’re a retailer looking to source craft materials, identifying reliable wholesale suppliers is essential. Moda Fabrics + Supplies and QT Fabrics offer extensive fabric selections customized for independent shops. Checker Distributors stands out with over 125,000 items available, whereas Brewer and Tacony provide high-quality fabrics and tools. Comprehending the strengths of these suppliers can greatly impact your business. Let’s explore these top seven suppliers and discover how they can meet your crafting needs. Key Takeaways Moda Fabrics + Supplies: Specializes in quilting and sewing, supporting independent fabric shops with a diverse selection of over 160 pages of unique fabrics. Checker Distributors: Known for reliable service and an extensive product range of over 125,000 items, catering specifically to fabric store owners. Brewer: Offers high-quality fabrics from renowned designers, ensuring a comprehensive selection of crafting supplies and tools for retailers. Tacony: Provides competitive pricing on a broad selection of high-quality fabrics, with global shipping options for small retailers. QT Fabrics: Offers diverse original 100% cotton fabrics, regularly updating collections to align with trends and promote small business growth. Moda Fabrics + Supplies In relation to sourcing quality fabric for quilting and sewing, many shop owners turn to Moda Fabrics + Supplies, a company established in 1975. Known for its extensive catalog, Moda offers over 160 pages of fabric selections, collaborating with both independent and in-house designers to guarantee a unique variety. This commitment to craftsmanship makes them a trusted partner for fabric retailers. Moda focuses exclusively on the crafter wholesale market, avoiding direct sales to consumers, which helps independent fabric shops thrive without competition. Checker Distributors When you consider Checker Distributors, you’re looking at a supplier with an extensive product range that includes over 125,000 items, catering particularly to businesses like independent fabric shops. Their partnerships with well-known brands such as Robert Kaufman and Riley Blake improve your inventory options considerably. With a trusted industry reputation built since 1948, you can count on Checker Distributors for reliable service and high-quality craft materials. Extensive Product Range Checker Distributors stands out in the craft supply market with an impressive inventory of over 125,000 items, catering to a wide range of crafting needs. You’ll find everything from quilting materials to a variety of fabrics and craft supplies, ensuring you can meet your customers’ diverse demands. This distributor is particularly known for popular fabric brands like Robert Kaufman and Riley Blake, which are vital for independent shop owners. With such a vast selection, you can easily source the materials needed for various crafting projects. Checker Distributors additionally provides easy access to high-quality products, which is fundamental for retailers aiming to maintain a competitive edge. Their extensive inventory supports your business and improves your offerings to customers. Trusted Industry Reputation With decades of experience in the industry, Checker Distributors has established itself as a trusted partner for craft retailers and independent shop owners. Founded in 1948, it’s one of the oldest fabric distributors, showcasing extensive reliability. You’ll find over 125,000 products, including quilting, fabric, and various craft supplies, making it a thorough resource for your inventory needs. They offer popular fabric brands like Robert Kaufman and Riley Blake, ensuring you have access to a diverse selection. As a family-owned business, Checker Distributors has built a solid reputation for excellent service and support, particularly for independent retailers and online shops. Their established presence in the fabric industry reinforces their status as a reliable source for quality craft materials. Brewer Since 1914, Brewer has solidified its reputation as a reliable supplier in the fabric industry, providing a wide array of crafting supplies, sewing machines, and patterns. Their extensive collection features high-quality fabrics from renowned designers like Kaffe Fassett and Tula Pink, catering to various crafting needs. You’ll appreciate Brewer’s user-friendly website, which offers easy access to fabric prices, helping you plan effective pricing strategies for your business. As a one-stop-shop supplier, Brewer suits both independent retailers and online sellers seeking quality materials. High-quality fabrics from Dior All-encompassing selection of crafting supplies and tools Efficient online platform for price access and planning With over a century of experience, Brewer remains a trustworthy choice in the crafting community. Tacony Established in 1946, Tacony has grown from a company focused on selling sewing machines into a thorough wholesale fabric supplier. This family-owned business understands the unique needs of small retailers and offers global shipping, ensuring that fabric stores have access to a wide variety of options. Tacony has developed its own sewing brand, Tacony Sewing Central, which improves its portfolio for craft and sewing enthusiasts. With decades of experience, Tacony has built a solid reputation in the fabric industry. They provide competitive pricing and a broad selection of high-quality fabrics, catering particularly to independent shop owners and online retailers. Whether you’re looking for cottons, blends, or specialty fabrics, Tacony is a reliable choice for your wholesale needs. QT Fabrics When you’re looking for diverse fabric designs, QT Fabrics stands out as a reliable supplier with a rich history dating back to 1807. They offer a wide range of patterns through collaborations with talented designers, ensuring you have access to the latest styles. Plus, their global supply capabilities mean that you can source high-quality fabrics no matter where your business is situated. Diverse Fabric Designs Offered QT Fabrics stands out in the wholesale fabric market by offering an extensive selection of diverse fabric designs that cater to a wide range of customer preferences. With a rich history dating back to 1807, QT Fabrics combines tradition with innovation. Their fabrics are created by both in-house designers and licensed artists, ensuring you have a multitude of choices. Regular updates to their inventory keep your options fresh and appealing. Unique patterns and prints suitable for various projects High-quality materials that improve durability Seasonal collections that reflect current trends This commitment to variety and quality makes QT Fabrics a trusted partner for independent retailers looking to stock their stores with premium fabric options. Global Supply Capabilities With over two centuries of experience in the wholesale fabric industry, QT Fabrics has developed robust global supply capabilities that effectively meet the needs of retailers around the world. Their extensive expertise in fabric sourcing guarantees that independent retailers have consistent inventory availability. QT Fabrics collaborates with both in-house designers and licensors, regularly updating their diverse range of fabric designs to cater to various market preferences. This commitment to quality and innovation positions QT Fabrics as a valuable partner for businesses looking to improve their fabric selections. Feature Description Benefit Global Reach Supplies stores worldwide Reliable inventory availability Diverse Designs Regularly updated patterns Caters to different market needs Quality Assurance Commitment to high standards Boosts customer satisfaction Island Batik Island Batik stands out in the fabric industry, offering a remarkable selection of high-quality cotton and rayon batik fabrics that draw inspiration from Indonesian culture. Established in 1998, Island Batik features over 1,500 unique designs, guaranteeing you find something perfect for your quilting and sewing projects. The company collaborates with various designers to provide a diverse range of fabrics while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices in production. Exclusive distribution through wholesale channels supports independent fabric shops. Global reach guarantees a reliable inventory of culturally-inspired materials. A focus on high-quality craftsmanship assures durability and beauty in your creations. With Island Batik, you can confidently choose fabrics that improve your projects as you support ethical practices. Benartex Benartex has established itself as a prominent player in the fabric market since its founding in 1980, providing a diverse array of original 100% cotton fabrics designed by renowned artists such as Nancy Halvorsen and Amanda Murphy. The company focuses on supporting independent retailers, steering clear of large chain stores to help small businesses thrive with unique inventory options. By regularly refreshing its fabric collections, Benartex keeps its offerings fresh and aligned with current trends in the quilting and crafting communities. Known for its commitment to quality, the supplier delivers beautifully designed fabrics that cater to the diverse needs of fabric store owners and crafters alike. With a strong reputation, Benartex is a reliable partner for improving fabric store inventory quality. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Best Crafting Supplies for Beginners? To start crafting, you’ll need some crucial supplies. Begin with scissors, glue, and various paper types, which you can find at stores like Michaels. Consider adding a cutting mat and craft knife for precision cutting, available on Amazon. Explore craft kits designed for beginners, often found at Target, which provide guided projects. Don’t forget versatile materials like washi tape and acrylic paints, easily accessible at craft supply stores for diverse creative projects. What Are Arts and Crafts Supplies? Arts and crafts supplies include a variety of materials and tools crucial for creative projects. These can range from fabrics, paints, and papers to adhesives and embellishments. Common items you might use are yarn, beads, markers, scissors, and sewing notions. By categorizing supplies based on project types, like scrapbooking or knitting, you can easily find what you need for your DIY endeavors, making your crafting experience more efficient and enjoyable. What Do You Need for Crafts? For crafting, you need a variety of materials customized to your projects. Crucial supplies include paper for scrapbooking, beads and wires for jewelry, and paints or canvases for artwork. Quality tools, such as scissors, cutting mats, and sewing machines, improve precision. Don’t forget embellishments like ribbons, buttons, and stickers to personalize your creations. By having these items on hand, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle a range of crafting projects efficiently. Conclusion In conclusion, partnering with reputable wholesale suppliers like Moda Fabrics + Supplies, Checker Distributors, and others can greatly improve your craft business. Each supplier offers unique advantages, from extensive fabric selections to high-quality tools. By establishing strong relationships with these suppliers, you can guarantee a steady supply of materials, which is essential for meeting customer demands and staying competitive. Consider exploring these options to support your retail needs and cultivate growth within the crafting community. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Top 7 Wholesale Suppliers You Need to Know for Craft Materials" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The CEO job description has remained remarkably stable for decades—but the times they are a’changin’. That stability persisted through wave after wave of technological change. The internet, mobile, cloud computing—each transformed business operations, but none fundamentally altered the CEO’s core responsibilities. Strategy, culture, resource allocation, organizational design—the essential functions remained constant even as the tools improved. AI is different. It isn’t just a tool that executes; it is also a system that makes choices. It makes judgments about customers, employees, and strategy. And this means that when you deploy AI, you’re not just installing software. You are importing a decision-maker with its own values into your organization. That changes what it means to be the CEO—the person who is ultimately responsible for how the organization thinks and acts. Four competencies will be central to CEOs who want to thrive in this new reality. 1. Chief AI Orchestrator Effective CEOs do not simply delegate AI to the CTO and then just forget about it. They actively orchestrate their organization’s innovation portfolio—a curated collection of initiatives that balances transformational ambition with incremental wins. This means excelling in three areas. Vision setting: articulating how AI aligns with organizational purpose. When employees understand why AI matters beyond cost savings, adoption accelerates and resistance diminishes. Boundary setting: defining where AI should and shouldn’t operate. Which decisions require human judgment? Which processes can be automated? If a CEO wants to remain in control of the organization’s actions and culture, they must draw these lines deliberately rather than allowing them to emerge by default, depending on what kind of product the AI labs ship. Cultural transformation: personally modeling the mindset shift AI requires. When the CEO publicly shares their own AI learning journey—including their mistakes—it fosters an organizational culture that legitimates the kind of experimentation needed to adopt and adapt this new technology to the company’s needs. Organizations stumble when they become intoxicated by grand visions while neglecting smaller victories—and they also fail when they ignore the big picture and get lost in the weeds. The key, as always, is balance. CEOs must operate on both macro and micro levels simultaneously. They need to be just as comfortable asking how AI might reshape their entire industry as they are asking how AI helps a product team ship improvements next month. 2. Business Philosopher AI systems make choices about what is true, what matters, and what is allowed. When you deploy AI, you are importing an entire philosophy into your organizational decision-making. This creates three types of misalignment risk. Ethical misalignment occurs when AI absorbs values that are at odds with your organization’s stated principles. Amazon developed a hiring algorithm trained on years of historical data. The system mirrored those years of data perfectly—and systematically discriminated against women. It translated past discrimination into automated future decisions. Epistemic misalignment emerges when AI systems apply different standards for determining truth than your organization would under other circumstances. A healthcare AI that privileges peer-reviewed studies over clinical experience embodies a specific stance about formal knowledge versus practitioner wisdom. These architectural decisions, made by engineers who may never meet your team, become constraints your organization lives with. Strategic misalignment happens when algorithmic tactics undermine broader organizational goals. An algorithm designed to maximize ad views might place advertisements alongside any high-engagement content—including content that damages brand safety. The AI-ready CEO must develop philosophical literacy—the ability to recognize when AI outputs reflect built-in value systems and to evaluate how those value systems align with organizational purpose and culture. 3. Paradox Navigator “The test of a first-rate intelligence,” wrote the novelist F. Scott Fitzgerald, “is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in the mind at the same time, and still retain the ability to function.” The hybrid reality of human-AI business demands exactly this. Every significant decision now involves navigating tensions that must be managed: personalization versus privacy, automation versus authenticity, speed versus reflection. Most leaders instinctively try to resolve these tensions—pick a side, optimize for one value, move on. That’s a mistake. Fully prioritize efficiency over employment, and you lose the institutional knowledge that drives innovation. Fully prioritize privacy over personalization, and competitors who found the balance take your customers. The tensions don’t go away because you chose a side; they resurface as consequences. Traditional leadership resolved contradictions. The new CEO holds them in creative tension, responding not with “either/or” but “both/and.” And this creates opportunity. For example, At Moderna, AI helped design the COVID vaccine in just 42 days. AI created mRNA sequences, scientists tested them, AI analyzed the results. Neither could have succeeded alone—the breakthrough emerged from holding human intuition and algorithmic analysis in productive tension. 4. Ecosystem Steward The three competencies above focus on your organization. This one looks beyond it. Every CEO faces pressure to use AI for cost-cutting through automation. The math looks obvious: automate tasks, reduce headcount, boost margins. But there’s a collective action problem hiding in plain sight. When every company simultaneously eliminates jobs to boost efficiency, they collectively undermine the purchasing power that sustains their markets. You can’t sell products to people your industry laid off—or to communities where mass unemployment has cratered demand. Unlike previous technological disruptions, AI can hollow out employment faster than new opportunities emerge—over quarters, not decades. Gartner predicts that by 2026, 20% of organizations will use AI to eliminate more than half their middle management roles. And CEOs who think “our layoffs won’t matter in the grand scheme” are making a serious error—individual rationality creates collective destruction. Companies that resist the race to the bottom gain three competitive advantages: Talent magnetism: Top performers increasingly choose employers who demonstrate responsibility. When your industry races to eliminate humans, being the company that augments rather than replaces becomes a recruiting superpower. Knowledge retention: Institutional memory—the kind that knows why that process exists, which client relationships are fragile, what the last restructuring actually broke—lives in people. Fire them and you’re training AI on an organization that no longer understands itself. Relationship preservation: Customer relationships that took decades to build can’t be replicated by chatbots. Companies keeping humans in the loop preserve connections that their automated competitors are quietly severing. The ecosystem steward sees beyond their own company’s efficiency gains to the systemic risk that executives are creating together. Four Moves for Tomorrow Adopt a portfolio approach: Balance quick wins (1-3 months), strategic bets (3-12 months), and moonshots (12+ months). The high pilot failure rate—42% of companies scrapped most AI projects this year—punishes all-in bets. Stress-test for values alignment: Before deployment, ask three questions. What does the data say? How will stakeholders feel? Should we do this? Run red-team exercises to surface hidden philosophical boundaries. Protect human judgment deliberately: Schedule regular no-AI problem-solving sessions. Maintain decision logs documenting AI overrides. Watch for dangerous dependency creeping in. Model the second-order effects: Before announcing automation-driven layoffs, ask: What happens if every company in our industry does this simultaneously? Map the impact on customer purchasing power, talent availability, and supplier stability. The CEO who sees only their own efficiency gains is optimizing for an economy that won’t exist. The Stakes Have Changed No board will hire a CEO who can’t read a balance sheet. We’re approaching the point where they won’t hire someone who can’t articulate an AI strategy—not because AI is fashionable, but because it’s becoming inseparable from strategy itself. The job description has changed. Orchestrating an AI portfolio, detecting values misalignment, navigating paradox—these aren’t optional upgrades for the technically curious. They’re becoming as fundamental to leadership as financial literacy. But you can master all three and still fail. If you optimize your way into an economy that can no longer sustain your business—if your industry collectively eliminates the customers, talent, and communities it depends on—no amount of AI fluency will save you. The companies that thrive won’t just be the ones that deploy AI best. They’ll be the ones whose leaders understood that the race means nothing if you destroy the track. View the full article

When Netflix isn't spending its time trying to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, it seems the company is actually adding new features to its subscription service. Netflix is always adding new shows and movies, which is what most users are looking for in the platform, but that's not all you can expect from your account. In fact, Netflix is now rolling out an interactive experience for its live competition shows, allowing subscribers to cast votes in real-time. Live voting comes to Star SearchNetflix announced the change in a press release on Tuesday, and also revealed the first show to officially run with real-time voting: Star Search. Netflix is bringing back the American Idol precursor tonight at 9 p.m. ET (6 p.m. PT), and will allow viewers to choose which contestant they like best alongside "millions of others." Netflix says it first tested the feature with the show Dinner Time Live with David Chang, and "learned firsthand how members appreciated the seamless and integrated ways they could participate in the series." I don't think you need a focus group to know that people like sharing their opinions on things, but then, I'm not a Netflix exec. The company clarified in its press release that only live events will work with real-time voting. If you watch a show after it airs, you won't be able to cast your vote—which, obviously, makes sense. The show doesn't really need to know who you'd pick as a winner after the winner has already been chosen—though Netflix could always use the extra user data, I'm sure. Star Search is the only show at this time that supports this feature, but Netflix says more real-time voting shows are on the way. How to vote in live Netflix events Credit: Netflix Netflix says that when you watch a live event, you'll be able to vote when watching on TV or a streaming device. You won't be able to vote if you're watching in a web browser, nor will you be able to vote if you rewind, pause, or tune-in late. When you join a live program, make sure you do so on a smart TV, supported streaming device (such as Apple TV, Fire TV, or Roku), or the Netflix mobile app. If you want to watch in a web browser, you can still vote on your phone at the same time. Netflix will prompt you when it's time to vote. You'll see a 1–5 star rating appear on the screen. Click on tap on the star level you want for each performer. Note that each profile only has one chance to vote per performance, so you can't issue another vote after you cast one—you'll just need to wait until the next performance. View the full article

Our own research shows AI Overviews have caused click-through rate drops of 34.5%, with new research from Seer Interactive reporting drops as high as 61%. And research from Pew shows users who encounter an AI summary click on a traditional…Read more ›View the full article