In our digital age, services and devices are constantly gathering our data. Exactly how that information is harvested and used, and how transparent a company is about those practices, may not always be obvious. Shift, an AI training startup, is turning that bargain into a business model. In return for a free housecleaning, customers allow Shift to collect data filmed by a camera headset on the (human) cleaner’s head. That footage is then licensed out to develop and train AI-powered household robots. Owned by German data research lab MicroAGI, founded in 2025, Shift began by hiring contractors to don its…
Author: Staff Writer
In 1967, John Lennon introduced the world to a whimsical escape in the Beatles’ hit song “Strawberry Fields Forever.” Based on childhood memories, Lennon’s song dealt with themes of identity and belonging. Similarly, as June comes to a close, the sky will feature its own fanciful offering with the “Strawberry Moon,” giving the world a collective moment of zen as the moon appears full for the next few days, including tonight. Here’s everything you need to know about June’s full moon, which hits its peak on Monday, June 29, at 7:56 p.m. ET. Why is it called a Strawberry Moon?…
It’s almost midnight when the phone buzzes—a client text, a comment that needs a reply, a trend that will be stale by morning. For the people who run brand accounts on social media, the workday never really ends. We’re marketing researchers who study digital and social media wellness and teach the students who go on to fill these jobs. In a study published in September 2025, we interviewed social media marketers in the United States, Ireland, India, Germany, and Australia and saw a profession quietly running on empty: passionate, creative people who are mentally drained by jobs that rarely turn…
It is often said—by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and many others—that soccer is the “most democratic sport.” That sentiment is based in large part on the sport’s global appeal and long history of popularity across class and racial lines. But whether that axiom applies to the quadrennial World Cup tournament is a different question. On occasions in the past, authoritarian governments have used the tournament to boost their regimes. Italian fascist leader Benito Mussolini did so when Italy hosted the 1934 World Cup, manipulating the games and handpicking officials to boost the chances for the home team, who went on…
To boost collaboration among suppliers, start by establishing effective communication channels. Set up a dedicated supplier portal for real-time information sharing, and hold regular feedback sessions to enhance dialogue. Foster trust by being transparent and involving suppliers in joint planning. Use technology, like AI tools, to streamline processes and improve decision-making. Finally, create a structured feedback loop that encourages innovation. These steps will set the foundation for stronger partnerships, but there’s more you can do to maximize impact. Key Takeaways Establish a dedicated supplier portal for real-time information access and streamlined communication. Engage in joint planning sessions to align goals…
For years, executive hiring rewarded visibility, experience, and momentum. Then the market changed all at once. Today, many qualified leaders experience the same thing: Recruiter outreach has slowed, interview processes stall without explanation, roles disappear midsearch, and applications vanish into silence. After unanswered emails and dead-end conversations, even experienced executives ask the same question: “Am I doing something wrong?” Most of the time, the answer is no. The market had changed, but most candidates are still following the old rules. I’ve spent 25 years in HR leadership across hypergrowth, transformation, and private equity-backed environments. I helped scale talent pipelines at…
People often see the return-to-office debate in black-and-white: In-person work fosters connection, while remote work breaks it down. In 2025, 37% of companies required office attendance, up from 17% the year before. Companies like Amazon, JPMorgan, and AT&T have all issued similar mandates. The idea is simple: Bring people back to the office, and connection and engagement will follow. But the facts show something else. MIT Sloan Management Review looked at the data and found that these mandates hurt employee engagement and lead to more people leaving, especially top performers. Eight out of 10 companies said they lost talent because…
An Introduction to Cycles of Confidence Most people are taught to view the economy through headlines, political debates, and short-term events. Yet beneath the daily noise are long-term cycles that influence markets, governments, business activity, and even society itself. Join Martin Armstrong for a special educational event designed to introduce attendees to the concept of confidence cycles and how they shape the world around us. This presentation will provide an accessible overview of the theories and observations that have made Martin Armstrong one of the most recognized independent economic thinkers in the world. This event is not limited to investors,…
In any organization, conflicts often arise from several key factors. Unclear job roles can lead to misconceptions, whereas poor communication practices contribute considerably to tensions. Moreover, personality clashes and limited resources can create a competitive atmosphere that nurtures disputes. Comprehending these causes is essential, as unresolved conflicts can impede productivity and team dynamics. So, what strategies can organizations implement to address these issues effectively? Key Takeaways Unclear job roles and responsibilities often lead to misunderstandings and conflicts among employees. Poor communication practices account for 70% of workplace conflicts, escalating tensions and misunderstandings. Personality clashes between employees can create friction and…
If you’re managing a business, you know stock control is essential. Inventory control systems help you track your stock levels in real time, which means you can avoid overstocking or running out of items. These systems automate many manual tasks, reducing errors and saving time. To choose the right system for your needs, consider your specific requirements and operational goals. Understanding these systems can lead to better decisions and improved profitability. What’s next in optimizing your inventory process? Key Takeaways Inventory control systems are tools that track stock levels in real-time, ensuring businesses meet customer demand efficiently. They automate manual…