#strategy and leadership podcast

[szebastianonne]

Clarity is both freeing and frightening but at the end of the day (or while starting one) is completely worth having for walking in the direction that takes us on a journey of our truth. - Szebastian . . . . . #Intentional #Strategy #Clarity #Path #Direction #Focus #Clarity #Courage #Resilience #Intentions #Instinct #Podcast #Branding #Media #Leadership #Vision #Values #Integrity #almostNakedCEO #Szebastian (at Milan, Italy) https://www.instagram.com/p/CncoQONS-wQ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#intentional #strategy #clarity #path #direction #focus #courage #resilience #intentions #instinct #podcast #branding #media #leadership #vision #values #integrity #almostnakedceo #szebastian

[writing-practice1]

Harvard Business Review

Are you in need of a quick information source? A reliable, trusted source written by industry leaders?

then the Harvard Business Review is the place to go, so many different perspectives on core business subjects to support and challenge your knowledge and perceptions

I will share some of my favourite articles going forward.

Don't see how you can sit to read a book every night due to over commitments? Make a commitment just like i have, read 1 HBR article a day, these can range from 2 minutes to 20minutes. By the end of the year, you will have ready 365 different perspectives on subjects like strategy, leadership, innovation and much much more.

Take a dive into HBR today!

All Topics - HBR

#strategy #Marketing #Innovation #leadership #Harvardbusinessreview #harvard #business #careers #podcast #writing #books #bookalternative #habits #commitments #2minutes #leader #reliable #trusted #knowlegde #favourite

[kamariarichmondmedia]

The Stroke Diva Fabulous Show with Camille Burns

Meet Camille Burns, the CEO of Women Presidents Organization on Thursday October 13th at 2:00 PM EST! The WPO is a dynamic and diverse collective of women business leaders around the world who share insight in groups facilitated to drive game-changing experiences. Where you can validate everything that’s gotten you this far and cultivate new strategies that’ll take you even farther. Website:…

View On WordPress

#community #conferences #diversity #entrepreneur #GroYourBizLTD #inclusion #leadership #like #listen #online media #podcast #share #Speaker #strategy #success #women elevating women #womenentrpreneurship #WPO

[chattingwiththelightkeeper]

Bosom Bondage Buddies

In D/S, the tradition of seeking out mentors has dwindled, becoming a lost art in the fabric of this complex lifestyle. Yet, the significance of having mentors cannot be overstated. Mentors serve as guides, offering invaluable insights, wisdom, and support to those navigating the intricacies of BDSM dynamics. For newcomers especially, mentors provide a vital source of education and guidance, helping them understand the principles, practices, and protocols of BDSM in a safe and informed manner. Without the guidance of mentors, individuals may struggle to navigate the nuances of BDSM dynamics, potentially leading to misunderstandings, conflicts, or even harm.

One of the primary benefits of having a mentor in BDSM is the opportunity for personalized guidance tailored to the

individual's needs and interests. Unlike generalized resources or online forums, mentors offer personalized advice and feedback, addressing specific questions and concerns that arise along the journey. This personalized approach fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of BDSM dynamics, empowering individuals to explore their desires and boundaries with confidence and clarity. Furthermore, mentors play a crucial role in promoting safety and risk awareness within the BDSM community. By sharing their knowledge and experience, mentors help newcomers navigate potential pitfalls and dangers, ensuring that all activities are conducted consensually and responsibly.

Ideally, mentors should align with the same side of the D/S spectrum as their mentees. This alignment ensures that the mentor can offer relevant insights and guidance based on shared experiences and perspectives. For example, a submissive seeking mentorship from a submissive mentor will benefit from learning about power dynamics, protocol, and communication strategies from someone who understands their submissive perspective. Similarly, a dominant seeking mentorship from another dominant gains valuable insights into negotiation, leadership, and scene management from someone who shares their dominant mindset. This alignment fosters a deeper connection and understanding between mentor and mentee, creating a supportive and nurturing environment for growth and exploration within the BDSM community.

The practice of seeking out mentors in the lifestyle is a vital tradition that deserves to be revived and celebrated. Mentors serve as invaluable guides, offering personalized guidance, safety education, and support to individuals exploring the complexities of BDSM dynamics. By aligning with mentors who share their D/S perspective, individuals can gain deeper insights and cultivate meaningful connections within the community, enriching their journey of self-discovery and exploration. Without the guidance and support of mentors, individuals may struggle to navigate the complexities of the lifestyle, potentially putting themselves and others at risk. Therefore, newcomers and experienced practitioners alike need to recognize the importance of seeking out mentors and fostering supportive relationships within the community.

If you enjoyed this, I invite you to give my podcast a listen 'Chatting With The Lightkeeper,' a top 25% most-followed podcasts on Spotify but available on all the major podcasting apps and follow my socials for more exclusive content: Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, and X (formerly Twitter) for a deeper dive into the wonderful world of D/S.

As with all of my thoughts, please see this disclaimer.

©TLK2024

#bd/sm blog #bd/sm community #bd/sm daddy #bd/sm kink #bd/sm lifestyle #bd/sm relationship #d/s #d/s community #d/s relationship #dom/sub #my writing

[my-mt-heart]

Some quarters on social media seem to believe very strongly that Caryl canon is coming. I want to believe them, but I see how AMC has clamped down on any promotion that features Melissa and how ten pictures of Norman are posted when someone dares to post a photo with Melissa. The title of the spin-off has a tiny subtitle for Carol which gets left out when reporters mention the show. To me, that looks like bad signs. It doesn’t look like Norman is our “ship captain” or even pro-caryl. When he likes stuff on IG, he does it to manipulate Carylers. We accept any little thing so they don’t give us anything more. Especially because people keep talking about how “we feast.” That’s not feasting. It’s Stockholm syndrome.

If Melissa isn’t featured alongside Norman in the credits, like the other women in the spin-offs, we should read that as a sign for what it is. Norman will never accept a shared spotlight. Canon means equality because they’re one unit, not a hapless hero and his sidekick. Norman wanted a showrunner who hadn’t watched the flagship! I think that’s because he didn’t want the writers to fall in love with Carol and her character development. There’s no urge to follow through on the “romantically coded beats” if the writers don’t know they exist. Regardless of what we think Melissa wants, Norman has shown us, again and again, that he is not on our side.

He used to mention Caryl in the early days, but something changed. Maybe what he was venting about in that podcast, I don’t know. Maybe it’s just that Diane is the jealous type and McReedus has insane chemistry, so he doesn’t want Caryl for that reason. I think canon is the real reason he “got rid of” Angela Kang. Say what you will about the Leah arc and her writing, but when you look at season 10, she was herding everyone towards canon. The Reaper arc screamed of Gimple and Kang even said that he rolled up his sleeves and got involved in season 11, so I think her plan for Leah was different and leading to explicit canon.

If promotion for The Book of Carol consists of Norman and other white men speaking for her and hyping things about the show that have nothing to do with Carol, please people, see that for the stubborn attempt to hold on to control that it is. These guys aren’t making a show for us, their core audience or even because they’re passionate about the story. It’s about keeping talented people out, so they can continue to remain employed.

Caryl canon in TBOC is very important for both Carol's and Daryl's stories and for gaining back fans' trust, so it's good if we keep reminding AMC what our standards are as opposed to celebrating crumbs they think they can make us accept i.e. at least Carol is alive, at least Daryl didn't get together with anyone else, at least Daryl and Carol are alone. What's also important is seeing Carol and Melissa promoted for what they are: invaluable leaders in this franchise. You are absolutely right that, so far, what AMC is showing us instead is that they allow insecure men to punish talented women and gaslight fans who threaten their vision. That's not a show I can support. I admire Carol and Melissa because they rise above everyone who puts them down. I love Caryl because they represent the light at the end of the tunnel. Gimple, Nicotero, and Zabel are 100% NOT on our side and never will be, but I need AMC and Norman to show me that they are. I need the marketing strategy to change starting this weekend and I need the show's leadership to change starting with a female showrunner who will treat Daryl and Carol, Melissa, and their fans with respect. I know you brought up a lot more to unpack, but I'll leave it there for now.

Side note: No one will be able to hold me back if Norman and Melissa aren't equally billed.

#caryl #carol peletier #melissa mcbride #daryl dixon #norman reedus #the book of carol #twd caryl

[cpasmarketing]

Creating A Content Calendar for SEO: Tips For Accountants

In the fast-paced digital world, where information overload is the norm, having a well-structured content calendar is akin to having a roadmap for success.

For accountants looking to enhance their online visibility and attract more clients through search engine optimization (SEO), partnering with a specialized SEO agency for accountants and meticulously planning a content calendar can be a game-changer.

Let's delve into some actionable tips tailored specifically for accountants to create an effective content calendar that drives SEO results

Set Clear Goals and Objectives: Before diving into content creation, it's crucial to define your goals and objectives. Are you aiming to increase website traffic, generate leads, or establish thought leadership in a specific niche? Understanding your objectives will help tailor your content calendar accordingly.

Know Your Audience: As an accountant, your target audience may include small business owners, individuals seeking tax advice, or entrepreneurs looking for financial planning guidance. Conduct thorough research to understand their pain points, preferences, and the type of content that resonates with them.

Keyword Research: SEO success hinges on identifying the right keywords that your target audience is searching for. Utilize keyword research tools to discover relevant keywords with a balance of search volume and competition. Incorporate these keywords strategically into your content calendar to optimize for search engines.

Plan Content Types and Formats: Variety is key to keeping your audience engaged. Consider incorporating a mix of blog posts, infographics, videos, case studies, and downloadable resources into your content calendar. Experiment with different formats to cater to diverse audience preferences.

Align Content with Seasonal Trends and Industry Events: Stay ahead of the curve by incorporating seasonal trends, industry news, and key events into your content calendar. Whether it's tax season tips, year-end financial planning advice, or updates on regulatory changes, timely content can position you as a trusted authority in your field.

Maintain Consistency: Consistency is the cornerstone of effective content marketing. Establish a regular publishing cadence that aligns with your resources and capacity. Whether it's weekly blog posts, monthly newsletters, or quarterly webinars, stick to your schedule to maintain audience engagement and improve SEO performance.

Repurpose and Recycle Content: Don't let valuable content go to waste. Repurpose and recycle your existing content to extend its lifespan and reach a wider audience. Transform blog posts into infographics, webinar recordings into podcast episodes, or case studies into downloadable guides.

Collaborate Across Teams: Effective content creation often requires collaboration across various teams within your accounting firm. Involve subject matter experts, marketing professionals, and even clients to contribute ideas, insights, and testimonials. Collaborative efforts can lead to richer, more diverse content that resonates with your audience.

Track and Analyze Performance: Implement robust analytics tools to track the performance of your content calendar. Monitor key metrics such as website traffic, engagement rates, keyword rankings, and conversion rates. Analyze the data to identify patterns, trends, and areas for improvement, allowing you to refine your content strategy over time.

Stay Agile and Adapt: The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and so should your content calendar. Stay agile and be prepared to adapt to changes in algorithms, trends, and audience preferences. Continuously iterate on your content strategy based on feedback and insights to ensure long-term SEO success.

By following these tips and incorporating them into your content calendar strategy, accountants can enhance their online presence, attract more qualified leads, and ultimately drive business growth through SEO. Remember, consistency, relevance, and audience-centricity are the keys to unlocking the full potential of your content marketing efforts. Start planning your content calendar today and watch your SEO rankings soar!

#seo #agency #accountant #business #finances

[nanowrimo]

30 Covers, 30 Days 2022: Day 19

Day nineteen of 30 Covers, 30 Days takes star-crossed lovers quite literally as we travel to the stars! Sci-fi LGBTQ+ novel Star-Crossed by Hope McDonald puts a twist on a familiar Shakespearean tale. This cover was designed by returning designer, Rachel Gogel.

Star-Crossed

In this queer sci-fi adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, young trans man Phoenix Hayes falls in love with a precocious daughter of the nearby planet Melora and must contend with the interplanetary conflict that forbids even their friendship.  

About the Author

Hope (they/them) was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest.  They are a queer disability advocate and have been writing for as long as they  can remember.  They are also a classical musician and a music education major and are owner-training a service dog.  When it comes to reading, writing, and podcasts, their favorite genres are sci-fi, fantasy, and horror.  Their philosophy on their “gay space Shakespeare” endeavors is  that “it’s what the Bard would have wanted.”  

About the Designer

Rachel Gogel Independent Creative Culture Officer rachelgogel.com @rgogel (on IG and Twitter) Rachel Gogel (she/her) is a Paris-born, San Francisco-based queer creative director and designer whose skills range from branding, strategy, and design management to art direction, editorial, and product design.  She runs her own small consultancy as an independent creative culture officer where her approach is informed  by experiences both in-house and agency side. Over the last fifteen years, Rachel has continued to use design as a tool for change — from launching story-driven initiatives at Departures and Godfrey Dadich Partners to building multidisciplinary teams at The New York Times’ award-winning T Brand, GQ, and Meta. In 2022, some of her main projects included supporting internal brand work at Airbnb, advising on Jeff Staple’s new magazine MYLES, and building a brand identity for Jacqueline Novogratz’s latest passion project, Anew. Outside of her studio practice, she is also the Women in Leadership & Design (WILD) Chair on the AIGA SF Board of Directors and an Adjunct Professor at the  California College of the Arts (CCA) where she teaches classes called  “Leadership by Design” and “Designing Your Career” for graduate students completing their Master’s in Interaction Design. As a passionate design leader and experienced people manager, Rachel believes in fostering  inclusive spaces that unlock human potential.

#nanowrimo #nano #30c30d #30 Covers 30 Days #design #lgbtq #rachel gogel #hope mcdonald

[madstars-festival]

[JURY INTERVIEW] MAD STARS, WHAT AN EXPERIENCE

MAD STARS attracts attendees from every corner of the Asia-Pacific region as well as jury members from places as far-flung as Mexico and Sub-Saharan Africa.

We wanted to know what they thought of last year’s festival, so we asked juries from countries near and far.

Kapil Bhimekar, creative director, Leo Burnett

MAD STARS was a highly inspiring and enriching experience. I was pleasingly surprised in so many ways, be it the quality of work, the venue, or even the whole organization of the event itself, it was so well done.

The thing that especially stood out for me was the people of Busan. I have never felt such warmth. The people from the organizing committee, as well as the locals around the town, were extremely helpful. The city overall has a beautiful welcoming vibe to it.

James Keng Lim, director of creative strategy, GCI Health

From a purpose and their entries model point of view, MAD STARS deserves all the credit. It embodies the ethos that the maddest ideas can change the world, independent of the size of the proverbial purse strings. I also want to take this opportunity to congratulate and commend the organizers and the relentless work done by the staff.

The festival ran like clockwork. It was well-organized and thoughtfully put together. I think I speak for all the juries when I say it is a festival all of us want to be a part of. That’s a huge compliment and validation of the great work done to put this festival together. 

Rimantas Stanevičius, creative director, Milk

This was my first time at MAD STARS. While the festival typically doesn't extend invitations to preliminary jurors, my enthusiasm for a complete experience led me to secure a grant from the Lithuanian Ministry of Culture. This allowed me to travel to Busan and represent our local Art Directors Club through podcasting.

I had the privilege of meeting tons of amazing people from the industry, forging new connections, and rekindling old ones. For example, I had a chance to reconnect with fellow alumni from the Berlin School of Creative Leadership. I’d say my time there was well-spent, producing over two hours of interviews talking to Rey Kim of Mad Stars, Gabriel Lora, Jesse Wong, Becky McOwen Banks, and Mohammad Akrum Hossain among others.

Nurlan Satarov, creative director & creative group director, Cheil Worldwide

This was my third time as a juror since 2019, and I've noticed that the festival's scale and influence keep growing with each passing year.  What sets MAD STARS apart from other awards shows is that it’s free to enter. And guess what? They've got a ton of entries that have won big awards at Cannes Lions, One Show, Spikes, and D&AD (the toughest festival to win, in my opinion). It's awesome spotting hidden little gems amidst the massive cases. Making it onto the list of award-winning works alongside those giants is a sweet deal, even if you land on the shortlist.

I genuinely enjoy heading to Busan and connecting with fantastic folks at Mad Stars. It's such a cozy and welcoming event. Returning to the festival in person after the pandemic was especially wonderful. There's just something special about being able to participate in person and connect with people face to face again. There's no denying it, festivals by the sea have this magical vibe that's hard to replicate elsewhere.

Speaking of the judging process, the system got a major upgrade. All the necessary information and materials were delivered promptly and without any hiccups, making the whole experience smooth and convenient. With over 20,000 entries last year, Mad Stars has certainly become a big fish in the global awards scene. Winning any type of award at Mad Stars amid such fierce competition is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the outstanding quality of the work. It's no small feat to stand out among the world's top-notch entries. A big shoutout to the folks in the jury support division – they made a difference and helped make the whole process even better.

MAD STARS are like ROCK STARS. It's hard not to love what they are doing.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

MAD STARS 2023 was filled with so many diverse experiences and warm memories!

What kind of juries will be joining MAD STARS this year?

We are looking forward to welcoming global experts who will evaluate various creative solutions with a fresh perspective at MAD STARS!

Don't miss out on the opportunity to evaluate outstanding entries from all over the world and make memories in the hot summer in the beautiful city of Busan by the sea!

Want to be a jury member for MAD STARS 2024?!

👉🏻 https://bit.ly/3wcSNp8

#festival #advertising #busan #marketing #creative #digital #madstars #awards #award #madstars2024 #interview #jury #judging #creatives #creative solutions #creativity

[hunktears]

HEY BESTIES I GOT LAID OFF AGAIN

KNOW ANYONE WHO’S HIRING SOMEONE IN THESE AREAS:

marketing (leadership, senior, etc)

narrative design

social media strategy (text, video, graphics)

game writing (scripts, dialogue, narration)

community management & strategy (leadership, senior, etc)

spilling food on my shirt because I’m eating spaghetti too messy (executive)

why don’t you point them to... HUNKTEARS!

I’m great at all of these things!

I have worked on such prestigious projects as:

Blaseball (Marketing & Narrative)

Fanbyte.com and its podcasts, streams, and wrestling vertical (Marketing, Comedy, Branding, Creative strategy, Editorial)

Zoe Quinn’s Chuck Tingle FMV (Script Writing and Narrative)

My own podcast If You’re Driving Close Your Eyes (Comedy, Branding, Marketing, Community Management)

Beloved wrestling podcast Wrestlesplania (Content Strategy, Comedy, Community Management, Analytics)

My many years of funny posts and highly valuable personal brand “Hunktears” (Priceless and impossible to describe)

That’s right, when you want “Content” and “value,” the name to trust is Hunktears!

[mystereoheart]

Unleashing Your Potential: Self-Help Tips for Personal Growth and Success

In the pursuit of personal growth and success, self-help techniques provide invaluable guidance and support. Drawing inspiration from the habits of successful and highly effective people, as well as the wisdom found in self-improvement books and quotes, we can empower ourselves to cultivate positive habits, overcome challenges, and unlock our true potential. In this article, we will explore self-help tips that can accelerate our journey towards self-improvement and success.

Embrace Good Habit Formation

One of the most powerful tools for personal growth is the formation of good habits. Successful individuals understand the importance of consistent, positive actions in shaping their lives. Start by identifying the habits you wish to cultivate, whether it's reading daily, exercising regularly, or practicing gratitude. Set small, achievable goals and establish a routine that supports these habits. Over time, these habits will become ingrained, leading to lasting positive change.

Learn from the Habits of Successful People

Take inspiration from the habits of successful people who have achieved remarkable results. Look for patterns in their routines, mindset, and behaviors. Identify what resonates with you and aligns with your goals. Whether it's waking up early, practicing mindfulness, or setting clear goals, incorporate these habits into your own life. Remember, success leaves clues, and by emulating the habits of successful individuals, you increase your chances of achieving similar outcomes.

Dive into Self-Improvement Books

Self-improvement books are a treasure trove of wisdom and practical guidance. They offer insights from experts in various fields, providing actionable strategies for personal growth. Explore books that resonate with your interests and goals, such as books on mindfulness, productivity, or leadership. Incorporate regular reading into your routine, and make time for reflection and implementation of the concepts you learn. By absorbing the knowledge shared in self-improvement books, you can accelerate your journey towards self-improvement.

Find Inspiration in Self-Improvement Quotes

Inspirational quotes have the power to shift our perspective and ignite motivation. Surround yourself with quotes that resonate with your aspirations and values. Create a collection of meaningful quotes and place them where you can see them daily—on your desk, as phone wallpaper, or in a journal. Whenever you need a boost of encouragement, turn to these quotes for inspiration, reaffirming your commitment to self-improvement and success.

Seek Self-Improvement Tips

Take advantage of the vast array of self-improvement tips available in various mediums—articles, podcasts, videos, and online courses. Explore topics that align with your goals, whether it's time management, communication skills, or emotional intelligence. Engage in continuous learning and implement these tips into your daily life. Experiment with different approaches, adapt what works for you, and discard what doesn't. Self-improvement is a personal journey, and by seeking out and applying relevant tips, you can make meaningful progress.

Prioritize Self Help

Self help is not just about achievement; it also emphasizes self-care. Take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Make time for activities that recharge and rejuvenate you, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. Practice self-compassion and prioritize self-care as an essential component of personal growth. Remember that taking care of yourself enables you to show up as your best self in all areas of life.

Conclusion

Self-help tips provide a roadmap for personal growth, enabling us to tap into our potential and achieve greater success. By embracing good habit formation, learning from the habits of successful people, exploring self-improvement books and quotes, seeking out relevant tips, and prioritizing self-care.

#self-help #self help tips

[stroebe2]

Earlier this summer, I showed up uninvited at a midtown Manhattan music venue, where a startup named the Praxis Society was holding an event as part of a weeklong series to promote its flagship product: a free-market Mediterranean city-state the company hopes to build under the leadership of a CEO who, former employees said, is interested in fascist authors and occultism and has touted a book that argues Black people are intellectually inferior to whites. 

Praxis, a for-profit corporation, was founded as Bluebook Cities in 2019 by Californian Dryden Brown and former Boston College wide receiver Charlie Callinan. They envisioned an autonomous enclave where the free-market dreams of Chicago and Austrian school economists would become reality, a place libertarians could settle without the tyranny of regulation. While the project draws inspiration from ancient Greece and Rome, Brown, the company’s CEO, said in a 2021 interview that its style would be “hero futurism” with a “neo-Gilded Age kind of aesthetic.” 

If this sounds like fantasy, it probably is. But it’s one that’s captured the minds of real—and really rich—people. In 2021, the company’s seed round raised roughly $4 million, including from Pronomos Capital, a libertarian city-building fund started in 2019 with significant financial backing from Thiel. Other participants included Thiel’s close friend Balaji Srinivasan; Joe Lonsdale, who cofounded the analytics and intelligence company Palantir Technologies with Thiel; and Bedrock Capital, a fund launched by a former partner in Thiel’s Founders Fund. Praxis followed up several months later with a Series A round that brought in $15 million, much of it from cryptocurrency investors, including Three Arrows Capital and Sam Bankman-Fried’s Alameda Research, which both later spectacularly imploded. Emergent Ventures, another Thiel-backed fund led by economist Tyler Cowen and housed in George Mason University’s Koch-supported Mercatus Center, has also invested. 

Brown and at least one other senior Praxis employee were interested in “this strange Nazi occultism,” one of those three ex-staff members said, citing the pair’s appreciation of Evola, who co-authored another book offering “instructions for developing psychic and magical powers,” according to its contemporary publisher. (Scholars have written about Nazi links to Ariosophy—an esoteric ideology blending mysticism, racism, nationalism, and antisemitism—and documented the SS’s fascination with Norse mythology and Eastern spiritual traditions. If you’ve seen Raiders of the Lost Ark, you know the Hollywood version.) Another of those former employees, also citing Evola, confirmed Brown’s interest in the occultist bent of the SS. An internal slideshow briefing staff on the company’s brand and philosophy presented Evola’s thinking on the four “functional classes” or castes, and suggested the categories should guide the company’s recruitment of new members and prospective residents, according to that former worker.

“When you’re hired,” one former employee said, “you get a welcome packet with 11 book recommendations. One of them is Bronze Age Mindset,” an openly racist and fascist book by the anonymous far-right influencer Bronze Age Pervert that warns of a coming struggle against the “enemies of Western man and the enemies of beauty.”

Part of the company’s strategy involves drawing participants in New York’s downtown scene to its events in the hope of bringing some on board. Succession actress Dasha Nekrasova, a leading light of the so–called Dimes Square set and a co-host of Red Scare—a once-socialist podcast that has taken a turn to the right—attended a June black-tie banquet at the Yale Club for current and prospective members. Thiel money has also directly funded downtown events attended by the arty set Praxis is trying to lure; in 2022, BuzzFeed News revealed the billionaire’s financial backing of the New People’s Cinema Club, which boasted of screening transgressive films without mind to political correctness. Jokes about sloshing “Thielbucks” among the anti-woke downtown set have become a meme.

In Brown’s vision, Thiel’s or his associates’ money wouldn’t just be going to film impresarios or their parties; it would go toward a city where both young neo-reactionaries and their post-left associates might have a hand in forging something tangible, something beyond a podcast or a Substack. Of course, Praxis hasn’t done anything tangible. But even if construction never starts, the company’s inroads with the scene are another vector for reactionary Silicon Valley perspectives to acquire cultural purchase.

The company has scoped a rotating set of possible sites for its city along the Mediterranean shore. Kunapuli told me they were trying to decide between Italy and Morocco. (I later heard Montenegro is in the mix.) “There’s tradeoffs,” Kunapuli acknowledged, as we looked at the renderings. Italy is more trusted by Westerners, a place where Praxis company leaders believe government and industry are more likely to come through on legal contracts, he explained, before conceding the same conditions would make it “harder to influence and change regulations and policies” than in Morocco.

A record-breaking heat wave and forest fires would end up hitting the Mediterranean a month later. As best as I could tell, Praxis didn’t have a plan to shield its new-Gilded Age city from such catastrophes. As it turns out, you can’t exit everything.

#motherjones #ali breland #praxis #praxis society #peter thiel #dryden brown #charlie callinan

[mariacallous]

On the day before the House Republican’s internal leadership elections, several members of the pro-Trump House Freedom Caucus met with House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy in his office as they seek to extract concessions from him in exchange for their speaker vote.

Pennsylvania Rep. Scott Perry said that while McCarthy has been willing to hear them out, he doesn’t see the current minority leader cutting any deals until after Tuesday, when Perry is “99% confident” that someone will challenge McCarthy to show him he doesn’t have the 218 votes he would need on the House floor in January. 

“I don't think anything's gonna really change between now and then,” Perry told CNN leaving the meeting in McCarthy’s office. 

Virginia Rep. Bob Good, who said McCarthy faces “an uphill climb” to the speakership, said they’ve asked McCarthy to bring to them his proposal for running the House. 

Perry said that while their primary focus has been seeking rules changes that would empower individual members — and weaken the speaker — that is “not the limit” of their issues.

“We want to see this place change dramatically, to reflect the will of the people and to acknowledge how broken it is,” he said. “It’s incumbent upon anybody that wants to lead to kind of lay out their vision and how they would change their portion of it.” 

Perry also said the House Freedom Caucus has not taken an official position on the speaker’s race. Indeed, not everyone in the group is on board with their hardline strategy. 

Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene said on a podcast earlier today she thinks it’s “risky” and a “bad strategy” to challenge McCarthy, given that the GOP will likely have a razor-thin majority, and wants to see her party united.

[rafiq-mia]

Social media is a powerful tool for businesses of all sizes to reach potential customers, increase brand awareness, and build relationships with their audience.

Social media can help you achieve various goals, such as:

•  Attracting customers:

Social media allows you to showcase your products or services, share customer testimonials, and offer discounts or promotions. You can also use social media to drive traffic to your website or blog, where you can provide more information and encourage conversions.

•  Getting customer feedback:

Social media is a great way to get feedback from your customers, whether it's positive or negative. You can use social media to ask questions, conduct surveys, or respond to comments and reviews. By listening to your customers, you can improve your products or services, address their pain points, and enhance their satisfaction.

•  Building customer loyalty:

Social media can help you build long-term relationships with your customers by engaging them with valuable content, providing customer service, and rewarding them for their loyalty. You can also use social media to create a community of loyal fans who can advocate for your brand and spread the word about your business.

•  Increasing market reach:

Social media can help you reach new and diverse audiences, both locally and globally. You can use social media to target specific segments of your market based on their demographics, interests, behaviors, and needs. You can also use social media to expand your network and collaborate with other businesses, influencers, or organizations.

•  Establishing thought leadership: Social media can help you establish your brand as a thought leader in your industry by sharing your expertise, insights, and opinions on relevant topics. You can use social media to create and distribute original content, such as blog posts, videos, podcasts, ebooks, or webinars. You can also use social media to join or start conversations, answer questions, or participate in events. By doing so, you can demonstrate your authority, credibility, and value to your audience.

As you can see, social media has many benefits for businesses of all sizes and industries. However, to succeed with social media marketing, you need to have a clear strategy that aligns with your business goals and objectives. You also need to choose the right platforms for your audience, create engaging content, and measure your results.

If you need help with creating a social media strategy for your business I will help you.

If you have any other questions about social media or digital marketing in general, feel free to ask me. I'm always happy to chat with you.

#tumblr tumblrgirl love photography aesthetic instagood instagram girl #socialmedia digitalmarketer rafiqmia #usa #bangladesh #digital_marketer #canada #digital_marketing #youtube #critical role #rafiq #lakelife #facebook_ads

[chattingwiththelightkeeper]

Lemons To Lemonade

In a world where the BDSM lifestyle often carries connotations of darkness and strict rules, it is refreshing to find avenues for uplifting each other, regardless of role. Whether one identifies as dominant or submissive, the journey through challenging days can be made lighter with mutual support and positivity. Here are ten ways both dominants and submissives can uplift each other when the going gets tough:

Turning Lemons into Lemonade: Encourage your partner to see setbacks as opportunities for growth. Remind them that while they may not control every outcome, they can always learn and move forward positively.

Gratitude Practice: When negativity looms, prompt your partner to list five things they are grateful for. This simple exercise can shift focus from hardships to blessings, fostering a brighter outlook.

Embracing Rejection: Help your partner build resilience in the face of rejection, whether it is in relationships, work, or daily choices. Learning to navigate rejection cultivates strength and encourages taking on new challenges.

Solution-Focused Leadership: As a dominant, take the initiative to address issues within the relationship discreetly. Instead of merely pointing out problems, offer constructive solutions without drawing unnecessary attention to the issue.

Words Matter: Choose words that uplift and inspire rather than perpetuate negativity. By consciously replacing negative language with positive alternatives, both partners can cultivate a more optimistic atmosphere.

Encouraging Self-Care: Recognize when your partner needs a moment to recharge. Encourage them to take a break and prioritize self-care, even if it is just a brief pause to breathe and reset.

Shift Perspectives: Encourage reframing 'have to' into 'get to', emphasizing gratitude for opportunities rather than obligations. This simple linguistic shift can transform outlooks and foster appreciation for everyday tasks.

Digital Detox: Create designated times to disconnect from social media and external negativity. By setting boundaries around technology, both partners can create a safe space for positivity and joy.

Avoiding Drama: Actively work together to steer clear of unnecessary drama and negativity. Whether it is distancing from toxic situations or choosing not to engage in gossip, prioritize maintaining a positive environment.

Share Smiles: Lead by example by embracing positivity and spreading joy. A genuine smile can be contagious, uplifting both partners and those around them.

Reflecting on these strategies, it becomes evident that uplifting each other transcends roles within a relationship. Whether dominant, submissive, or simply partners in life, fostering positivity and support can transform even the toughest days into triumphs.

If you enjoyed this, I invite you to give my podcast a listen 'Chatting With The Lightkeeper,' a top 25% most-followed podcasts on Spotify but available on all the major podcasting apps and follow my socials for more exclusive content: Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, and X (formerly Twitter) for a deeper dive into the wonderful world of D/S.

As with all of my thoughts, please see this disclaimer.

©TLK2024

#bd/sm blog #bd/sm community #bd/sm daddy #bd/sm kink #bd/sm lifestyle #bd/sm relationship #d/s #d/s community #d/s relationship #dom/sub #my writing

[freifraufischer]

GIGA Pro Gym's Team - Does anyone know how to do what they say they want to do?

Presented here are the bios from their website (as of the end of June 2023). I am going to flag what I want you to look for... who here has the technical background to run a multimedia platform. Or are they a marketing person who might have worked in media. I'm going to emphasis these are direct quotes. I'm changing nothing.

I also want to point out that Fox's "early career includes Summer Olympic TV broadcast coverage" is that she was a group VP for Time Warner Cable in the early 2000s. And "start up launches for pro-cycling and senior tennis" still doesn't name what these enterprises are, we've been unable to identify what they might be among non-defunct entities.

*** *** ***

Aimee Boorman: Cofounder and Chief Events Officer

Decorated and globally respected head coach, including 12 years coaching the sport’s all-time greatest, Simone Biles. Collaborative leader with deep technical expertise. Head coach of USA’s Rio Olympic and World Championship gold medal teams. Dutch National team coach at 2020 Tokyo Olympics as well as 2021 World and European Championships; 3X USAG Coach of the Year and 2016 USOPC Coach of the Year. USAG Master of Sport; FIG & USAG judge.

Maura Fox: Cofounder and Chief Executive Officer

Entrepreneur and executive leader with 20+ years in sports, media, technology and entertainment. Long career delivering innovation for cable TV, data tech, and OTT platforms, and successfully launching new products, services, and start ups. Early career includes Summer Olympic TV broadcast coverage, start up launches for pro-cycling and senior tennis, and regional sports net launch of national network brand. Later, led cable TV’s 1st ever IPTV trial and industry leading launches of VOD, SVOD, DVR, and remote DVR services; more recently, led tech transition of linear TV sports channel to all-digital network, product strategy for start up of first-of-its-kind TV data-analytics using census-based data lake-house, and product strategy for $2B IT end user firm.

LaPrise Williams: Cofounder and Chief Sports Engagement Officer

Engagement specialist, business owner, St Vincent and the Grenadines Gymnastics Association (SVGGA) technical director, and women’s sports trailblazer on international stage; Head Coach Baylor University Acrobatics and Tumbling 2011-2014, Co-owner/head coach HUGS gymnastics, Owner/director Dolphin Gymnastics; Coach of USA world gymnastics team member, Ashley Miles; Coach of USA national team members, USA Master of Sport; Texas State Board Member (former), FIG/PAGU committee member 2019, FIG Brevet judge; SVGGA Olympic Committee Board of Trustee member; Coaching consultant Dutch National and Developmental Teams 2020.

Laurie DeFrancesco: Advisor Board Member

GIGA rules chair, 25+ year head coach and gym owner, NCAA and NAWGJ judging official, and co-founder, CT Gymnastics Hall of Fame

Chellsie Memmel: Advisor Board Member

USAG high-performance and technical leader; former World Champion, 2008 Olympian, and internationally rated BREVET judging official

KJ Kindler: Advisor Board Member

OU Women’s Gymnastics Head Coach, 6x NCAA Team Championship titles – including 2023, 3x NCAA Coach of the Year, and Chair of WCGA Rules Committee

Jessica O’Beirne: Advisor Board Member

Creator/ producer of GymCastic podcast; writer, social influencer, and multimedia journalist, on air talent and expert analyst for sport of gymnastics

Lauren LoFrisco

Promotional marketing and sales expert with brand leadership in media and entertainment industries, and prominent management and consulting roles at HBO, TWC, Road Runner, and Comcast

Nicole Perrelle

Trusted advisor for digital execution, innovation strategy, and process optimization, with management and leadership roles including Gartner, Deloitte, and Amazon

Trish Scanlon

Branded entertainment and creative services executive with deep expertise in cable, TV, and lifestyle brands, including networks such as HGTV, Travel, In Demand, and Food Network

Jen Smith

Entrepreneur and strategic advisor, specializing in start up ventures and investor relations; deep experience delivering customer experience optimization, growth, and stakeholder value

Ben Wiles

Legal Counsel, Corporate Matters; deep legal experience and expertise in venture capital, private equity, and emerging growth matters

#gymnastics #giga pro gym

[saturniandevil]

November 2022 Important Dates

AKA my notes on The Astrology Podcast’s November forecast.

October Recap: We’re entering the month of November just off a Scorpio solar eclipse on October 25th. In mundane astrology generally, the nodes have traditionally indicated mre dramatic rise and falls of people or groups in power. For example, the UK’s new prime minister was appointed on the day of the eclipse, and the coronation is planned for the next lunar eclipse in Scorpio next year--we may see more changes abound. Guest host Patrick Watson connects Liz Truss’s brief time in office to the ancient Babylonian practice of substituting someone else for the king during for the day of the eclipse so that person would take the brunt of it. Another leadership change during the eclipse was the ascension of Italy’s new prime minister. In celebrity news, Elon Musk was legally compelled to buy Twitter right after the eclipse, forming a bookend to his initial offer to buy it during the last pair of eclipses (and backtracking during the Mercury retrograde, which stationed 10/8). As a South Node eclipse a keyword is “release,” such as Kanye West (natal Sun in Gemini copresent with retrograde Mars) being released from a bunch of contracts after his hateful words on Twitter.

Other notable transits include Mercury’s direct station early in October and Biden’s pardoning of marijuana convictions on the 6th, as well as new legislation around legalizing other drugs. Austin connects Neptune in Pisces to this, as in the past decade we’ve seen substances like marijuana and psychedelics getting wider social acceptance, as well as the rise of the opioid crisis across the US. The DART mission changed an asteroid’s trajectory with a rocket the moment it was conjunct Mars. The attack on the Nordstream 2 pipeline (Russia to Europe) in the Baltic Sea occurred during Mercury retrograde and as Mars approached a square with Neptune--an explosion under the ocean disrupting a pipe/road/bridge. More Mars-Neptune squares are coming up, so Patrick warns we should expect to see more similar events.

Late October astrology: besides the eclipse, we’ll enter November with Saturn having just stationed direct on the 22nd (activating for the last time its 2+ year-long square to Uranus as it makes its way to Pisces), on the same day a once-in-a-century Sun-Venus cazimi in Libra, Jupiter returned to Pisces on the 27th, and Mars stationed retrograde on the 30th. Chris wonders if the Jupiter-Neptune conjunction in Pisces lines up with financial predictions that inflation will likely worsen in countries around the world.

Early November: Sun, Venus, and Mercury in Scorpio Each of these planets will fill out a T-square to Uranus in Taurus (opposite) and Saturn in Aquarius(square). Venus’s recent cazimi (exact conjunction to Sun) in Libra (10/22) was part of some larger shifts, as Venus cazimis have been in Scorpio for the past century. Furthermore, there is a 250-year “star point cycle” of conjunctions occurring in particular signs, and this cycle will call back to the late 18th century, such as the founding of the United States (which is also having a Pluto return). We can think of Venus in Libra in the sense of government accords and social contracts--the attempts at harmony among people. Austin connects this change in cycle to the documentary Century of the Self, which documents the rise of individualist and psychoanalytic strategies by corporate and political powers during the 20th century (A/N: highly recommend! It’s free on YouTube in four 45-minute episodes or in an omnibus video). Scorpio is a more self-oriented sign (maintaining one’s security and independence), whereas Libra is more interested in relating to others and balancing the scales--perhaps we’ll see a cultural shift from Martial individualism to Venusian cooperation.

Themes of obscuring and brooding will be especially apparent this Scorpio season. Mercury and Venus will not be visible to the naked eye for most of the month, as they are too close to the Sun. Our simmering Scorpio Mercury thoughts will find a dramatic outlet in retrograde Gemini Mars, as the planets are in mutual reception. Similarly, our Venus-ruled frustrations may erupt through ruler Mars, though the causes may be subtle and unconscious. (A/N: Check the houses where Scorpio and Gemini fall in your chart to see where this pattern should emerge). A similar pattern in the fall of 2018 saw the #MeToo movement affecting election results and Kavanaugh’s appointment to the Supreme Court. Venus in Scorpio can indicate finding beauty in unusual or morbid things, as well as obsession like in Phantom of the Opera.

November 8th - Lunar eclipse in Taurus, Sun-Mercury conjunction The eclipse is conjunct Uranus, and this is also the day of midterm elections in the US. Uranus likes to shake things up, stress-testing our foundations. Our hosts note that this is on Biden’s 6th-12th axis, wondering if there may be changes in his health or his employees, such as the cabinet. Additionally, considering the eclipse’s signification of changes in power, we may witness changes in the ruling party. A previous eclipse election was 1938, where Democrats came out in charge, but basically did away with the New Deal--perhaps emergency measures due to COVID will be cut even more dramatically. Uranus in Taurus is an apt indicator for bread riots, or may indicate further changes in light of Roe v. Wade’s overturning. Mercury conjunct the Sun means it’s changing sect on that day, further indicating changes in ruling parties.

November 13th-20th: Scorpio planets trine Jupiter in Pisces (not pictured) Venus will do so on the 13th-14th, Mercury the 15th, and Sun around the 20th.

November 13th - Electional Chart

This chart takes advantage of the grand trine in water signs between the Sun, Mercury, and Venus in Scorpio, Jupiter in Pisces, and the Moon in Cancer. Adjust the chart for just after 12:00 noon local time, with about 6° Aquarius rising. This is actually a Saturn election, with it in the first house, direct, in its domicile, and of the favored sect during the day. The Moon is in the 6th house (whole signs), but it’s applying to trines with the Scorpio planets & Midheaven in the 10th house, as well as a trine to Jupiter in Pisces in the 2nd house. This chart is good both for the self (1st house) and financial matters (2nd house). Venus is also within 2° of an exact trine with Jupiter, providing some bonification between the two. This may be a good time for the prudent allocation of resources for long-term benefit, especially financially.

November 16th - Venus enters Sagittarius This is the first of the planets to leave moody, underground Scorpio for loud and rambunctious Sagittarius.

November 17th - Mercury enters Sagittarius As planets enter Scorpio, they leave the T-square to Uranus and Saturn...

November 22nd - Sun enters Sagittarius ...and enter an opposition to Mars in Gemini. (see below)

November 23rd - New Moon in Sagittarius, Jupiter stations Retrograde This is our first non-eclipse lunation in awhile, at 1° of Sagittarius. This lunation especially activates the Mars retrograde in Gemini, and as an opposition connotes loud arguments or reacting dramatically to things. Much of what was planned in shadow during the first half of the month will become clearer as the Sun and faster planets change signs. Mercury and Venus opposite Mars in Sagittarius-Gemini last coincided with the release of Thriller and one of Madonna’s music videos being banned by MTV. Think “scandalous works of culture.”

Thanksgiving on the 24th may have issues with heating considering the Mars rx (Patrick thinks of deep-fried turkey accidents), and as the author I think this probably bodes unwell for readers in the UK and Europe who are already facing an energy crisis as the days get colder.

Late November Astrology: Mercury opposite Mars on November 29th, signifying discordant communication such as arguments. November 30th: Venus opposes Mars. The Sun doesn’t oppose Mars until December, when we’ll see a full Moon conjunct Mars. However, Mars can give us courage. During this Mars retrograde over the next few months, we have a chance to evaluate what we’ve fought for in the past, as well as how and why. What’s worth fighting for, and what’s the best strategy to use?

#astrology #transits #forecast #november 2022 #mars retrograde #scorpio season