I've had a fascination with Novelty Architecture since being a little kid and going to the Enchanted Forest in Baltimore off of Route 40. The storybook land is now a shopping center with the Humpty Dumpty Brick Wall and a Jester to attract visitors. In California my perception as a kid was the Cabazon Dinosaurs off of I-10 outside of Palm Springs. In a recent New York Times article they discussed Googie architecture which I initially perceived to be the same thing as novelty architecture as both are playful. What I learned was the distinctive architectural styles of Googie and Novelty stand out, but they have different origins, purposes, and design characteristics. So for anybody else curious here's a breakdown of their differences: 1. Definition Novelty Architecture: Refers to buildings designed to look like objects, animals, or other unconventional forms. The focus is on creating a whimsical or attention-grabbing structure, often used for roadside attractions or themed businesses. Example: A building shaped like a dinosaur, teapot, shoe (think LL Bean HQ in Maine), or hamburger. Googie Architecture: A futuristic architectural style that emerged in the mid-20th century, particularly during the post-war boom in the 1940s-1960s. It is inspired by the Space Age, car culture, and optimism about the future. The most examples are in the Los Angeles area like Norms Diner. Example: Coffee shops, gas stations, and motels with angular shapes, neon lights, and space-age motifs. 2. Aesthetic Novelty Architecture: Emphasizes literal representation. Designs mimic objects or characters (e.g., a donut shop shaped like a giant donut like Randy's Donuts outside of LAX and yes it was featured on the Simpsons). Often whimsical, humorous, or kitschy. Googie Architecture: Emphasizes abstract, futuristic elements. Features include upswept roofs, bold angles, boomerang shapes, and starbursts. Sleek and modern, inspired by technology and space exploration. 3. Purpose Novelty Architecture: Designed to grab attention and draw in customers. Commonly used for roadside businesses (e.g., diners, motels, gas stations) along highways in the early 20th century. Wigwam Motel off of Route 66. Googie Architecture: Reflects cultural optimism and fascination with the future during the Space Age. Often associated with mid-century commercial establishments, like diners, bowling alleys, and car dealerships. 4. Cultural Context Novelty Architecture: Popular in the 1920s-1940s as part of the roadside culture boom, when highways were expanding and businesses needed to stand out to drivers. Associated with kitsch and Americana. Googie Architecture: Emerged in the 1940s-1960s, influenced by post-war prosperity, car culture, and the Space Race. Rooted in mid-century modernism with a more stylized and futuristic approach. 5. Examples Novelty Architecture: The Big Duck (Flanders, New York) — a duck-shaped building. Lucy The Elephant (Margate, New Jersey) — a giant elephant outside of Atlantic City. Luxor Hotel (Las Vegas, Nevada) - Giant pyramid and replica of Luxor, Egypt. Googie Architecture: The original McDonald’s restaurants with their golden arches. Theme Building at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Space Age-inspired coffee shops like Pann’s in Los Angeles. So are we still confused about the differences between Novelty Architecture and Googie Architecture? Novelty architecture is about literal, eye-catching shapes, while Googie architecture is a stylized, futuristic design reflecting mid-20th-century optimism. Both are iconic in their own way and contribute to the charm of American roadside and commercial architecture but are not limited to only being in the USA. There's something Googie or something Novelty in your area you probably just haven't noticed it. For example in Fort Lauderdale, Florida we have a giant Beach Chair at our welcome sign! The Enchanted Forest Entrance in Baltimore, Maryland as an example of Novelty Architecture: Continue reading

Scott Ferrell, an attorney based in California and leading Pacific Trial Attorneys, has become a prominent figure in the realm of privacy litigation. His legal campaigns focus on the California Invasion of Privacy Act (CIPA), a law originally designed to address privacy concerns in a pre-digital era but now wielded to confront modern data-collection technologies. Ferrell’s extensive use of CIPA to target chatbot and session-replay technologies has garnered both praise and criticism, reflecting the complexities of privacy in a digital world. CIPA: An Aging Law Meeting New Technology The California Invasion of Privacy Act, passed in 1967, was created to address concerns about wiretapping and unauthorized recording of communications. At the heart of CIPA is a prohibition against using devices like a “pen register,” which records signaling or routing information from communications. Historically, pen registers tracked phone call metadata, but today, this definition is being adapted to technologies such as session replay and user-tracking software. These tools are widely used by businesses to enhance user experience and analyze web interactions, but their data-capturing capabilities have led to growing concerns. Ferrell has been at the forefront of testing whether these modern technologies violate the long-standing provisions of CIPA. The Wave of CIPA Litigation: Ferrell’s Strategy Ferrell has established himself as a key figure in bringing forward CIPA-related claims. His lawsuits often accuse businesses of deploying technologies that secretly record user interactions, a practice he argues equates to wiretapping or eavesdropping under the law. Ferrell's approach often involves filing multiple, nearly identical complaints against various defendants, making his litigation strategy both prolific and polarizing. In cases such as Licea v. Caraway Home Inc., Ferrell targeted the use of session replay software, a technology that records user behavior on websites. The plaintiff argued that such practices amounted to unauthorized surveillance, violating CIPA’s prohibitions. This case is one of many in which Ferrell seeks to expand the interpretation of CIPA to include newer technologies, positioning his litigation as a test case for broader privacy concerns. Comparing CIPA Cases to the Rise of Pixel-Tracking Litigation Ferrell’s approach mirrors trends seen in other areas of privacy litigation, such as lawsuits targeting pixel tracking in the healthcare sector. Pixel trackers, which are embedded in websites, collect and share user data with third parties, such as social media platforms. In the healthcare context, these tools have raised significant legal questions regarding the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive patient information. According to Wynter Deagle, a partner at Sheppard Mullin, privacy litigation often begins with a broad application of the same legal argument across multiple defendants. “You start with an almost scattershot filing of the same complaint against a number of defendants,” Deagle explained. “And then once it catches on a little bit, you do start to see more interest from other plaintiffs' lawyers.” Ferrell’s wave of lawsuits seems to follow this pattern, using the pen register definition under CIPA as a basis to challenge user-tracking practices. As his cases attract attention, other attorneys are likely to follow suit, potentially creating a cascade of privacy-related litigation in California and beyond. Critiques of Ferrell’s Litigation Tactics While Ferrell’s efforts have highlighted potential gaps in privacy protections, his methods have also drawn criticism. Opponents argue that his strategy prioritizes financial settlements over genuine legal reform. The practice of filing dozens of lawsuits with nearly identical claims can overwhelm defendants, pressuring them to settle rather than engage in prolonged court battles. Critics also worry that this flood of lawsuits risks trivializing the serious privacy concerns that CIPA was designed to address. By targeting a broad range of businesses, some of which may not be engaging in egregious violations, these lawsuits could dilute the public perception of privacy litigation as a whole. Implications for Businesses and Legal Precedents Ferrell’s cases, particularly those focusing on session replay software, highlight the pressing need for clarity in how privacy laws are applied to emerging technologies. Businesses using tools to analyze user behavior must now contend with the possibility that such practices could be interpreted as unlawful surveillance under CIPA. The outcome of cases like Licea v. Caraway Home Inc. will likely shape future litigation and influence how companies implement tracking technologies. If courts side with plaintiffs in these... Continue reading

When one abbreviates a word so commonly you forget that there's a long form version. Perfect case and point is when was the last time you said lets have luncheon instead of saying "lunch". Now we probably have said photograph more commonly when talking about a photo but Luncheon is almost never used in modern day terms. Here are some other examples I pulled that may have similarities: Demo and Demonstration is another one that is barely used but the rest on the list below is mashed up a bit more as English is full of "formalized" or longer terms that we rarely use in everyday speech. Here are some examples of commonly shortened words and their more formal or lesser-known counterparts: Exam → Examination Ad → Advertisement Gym → Gymnasium Fridge → Refrigerator Vet → Veterinarian Flu → Influenza Bus → Omnibus Lab → Laboratory Photo → Photograph Math → Mathematics Phone → Telephone Fax → Facsimile Specs → Specifications Movie → Moving Picture Mic → Microphone Bike → Bicycle Admin → Administration Sci-fi → Science Fiction Info → Information Demo → Demonstration These evolutions often come from practicality: the shorter versions are easier to say in casual conversation, while the formal versions are used in more serious or technical contexts. In case you were wondering if there's a term for this? I was and looked it up to find out that there is a linguistic term for this and it's called "clipping". Clipping is the process of shortening a word or phrase while retaining its original meaning. It’s a common feature in English (and many other languages), as it makes language more efficient and conversational. Types of Clipping Back clipping: The end of the word is dropped. Luncheon → Lunch Refrigerator → Fridge Gymnasium → Gym Front clipping: The beginning of the word is dropped. Telephone → Phone Omnibus → Bus Alligator → Gator Middle clipping: Both the beginning and the end are clipped. Influenza → Flu Refrigerator → Fridge (can also be considered back clipping) Complex clipping: Parts of compound words or phrases are clipped. Vegetables → Veggies Delicatessen → Deli Science Fiction → Sci-Fi This process is part of morphology, the study of word formation, and is often linked to casual or colloquial speech. It reflects how language adapts to the needs of its speakers over time. It’s fascinating, right? Words often begin as longer forms but get "trimmed" as they become more frequently used or embedded in popular culture! Continue reading

After a Belmond trip that exceeded all expectations on how to do a luxury travel trip to Peru compared to my last mission there delivering school supplies to children and playing soccer with the local Cusco Villagers I discovered the next big thing in Peru called Choquequirao Archaeological Park which takes 2 days to hike to and a future gondola is being built for faster access. Choquequirao Archaeological Park, often referred to as the “sister city” of Machu Picchu, is rapidly emerging as Peru’s next must-see tourist destination. While Machu Picchu remains the crown jewel of Peruvian tourism, Choquequirao offers visitors a chance to experience a similar grandeur with a fraction of the crowds, while also discovering an even more secluded and untouched archaeological treasure. Why Choquequirao Is Set to Become Peru’s Second Biggest Tourist Destination Size and Significance: Choquequirao covers nearly twice the area of Machu Picchu, making it one of the largest Inca complexes in Peru. Its vast network of terraces, ceremonial spaces, and agricultural areas highlight the advanced engineering and agricultural practices of the Incas. Yet, despite its significance, much of Choquequirao remains uncovered and less explored, giving it an air of mystery that draws the more adventurous traveler. Untouched Beauty: While Machu Picchu is well-preserved, Choquequirao is often described as more “raw.” Perched high above the Apurímac River and surrounded by steep valleys, the park offers an unmatched scenic beauty. The ruins are nestled among dense cloud forests, providing a backdrop that is both serene and awe-inspiring. Fewer Crowds, More Exploration: With Machu Picchu attracting millions of visitors annually, Choquequirao offers a quieter, more immersive experience. The remote location and challenging hike to the site mean fewer tourists, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature and history. The Planned Cable Car: What truly sets Choquequirao apart in its race to become Peru’s second-biggest tourist draw is the government’s plan to install a cable car system. The project, set to be completed in the near future, will make the site much more accessible. Currently, reaching Choquequirao requires a two-day hike, deterring many visitors. The cable car, however, will cut the travel time dramatically, potentially boosting annual visitor numbers from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands. Rich History and Cultural Heritage: Like Machu Picchu, Choquequirao was an important religious, political, and agricultural center for the Incas. It is believed that the city was a stronghold for Inca resistance against the Spanish conquerors. The terraces and structures that remain offer glimpses into the spiritual and practical lives of its former inhabitants. Excavations have revealed intricate stonework, sacred plazas, and temples that echo the grandeur of Machu Picchu. Sustainable Tourism Potential: As Choquequirao grows in popularity, there are concerted efforts to ensure the site is protected. This means that, even as visitor numbers increase, there will likely be sustainable tourism initiatives in place to prevent overcrowding and environmental damage. What to See at Choquequirao Main Plaza: Much like Machu Picchu, Choquequirao has a central plaza, surrounded by ceremonial and residential buildings. This space was likely used for religious ceremonies and communal gatherings. Terraces: The terraces of Choquequirao are not only agricultural feats but also home to impressive stone carvings, such as those of llamas, which are unique to this site. These carvings were possibly symbols of fertility and abundance. Temple of the Sun: A hallmark of Inca architecture, the Temple of the Sun at Choquequirao is believed to have been a site for celestial observation and rituals dedicated to the sun god, Inti. Apurímac River Views: The park offers breathtaking views of the Apurímac River, which flows in the canyon far below. The contrast between the steep cliffs, verdant landscapes, and the ancient ruins creates a dramatic and unforgettable panorama. The Adventure to Get There While the upcoming cable car will make Choquequirao more accessible, for now, the journey is a major part of the allure. Most visitors who make the trek enjoy a multi-day hiking experience that immerses them in the diverse ecosystems of the Peruvian Andes. The path is challenging but rewards hikers with sweeping views of mountain ranges, deep valleys, and cloud forests. This Will Bring People Back Who Used... Continue reading

Figuring out things as a startup invovles lots of guessing, checking, testing, failing, trying something new and figuring things out while figuring out where you can hit that inflection point. Startups need to figure out their narrative and thesis on the market and extrapolating how you're different than the others in the market that you're competing with. If you can differentiate in some format than you are winning one of the biggest initial battles for both potential investors/VCs and clients who are going to ask " Well how is this different than your competitor?" If you can figure the answer to that question than you are ahead! Figure out your pathway towards growth and longer term vision for a moat and defensibility. Defend that moat vigorously. Land and expand from there. Continue reading

Reddit & Best Buy sent out notices with updates to their privacy policies and user agreements this past week. A great example of the email is below: We’re writing to let you know that we recently updated Reddit’s User Agreement and Privacy Policy. While we encourage you to review the updated documents in full, here are some of the highlights: We reorganized sections of our Privacy Policy for improved clarity. We included language in the Privacy Policy to reflect our participation in the EU-US Data Privacy Framework. We clarified what content you submit is non-public. We updated the Privacy Policy to better reflect our current products, like Reddit Pro. For users in the EEA, United Kingdom, and Switzerland, we updated the User Agreement to reflect that the Reddit products and services are provided by Reddit Netherlands B.V. Updates to our Privacy Policy take effect immediately. The updated User Agreement takes effect September 16, 2024 and will apply to you if you use Reddit after that date. For more information about how we handle information that is made public on Reddit, please see our Public Content Policy. If you have questions, please visit Reddit Help. Continue reading

Andrew Chen pretty much sums it up perfectly so instead of trying to rewrite it you can read his Substack below or follow this link here: https://andrewchen.substack.com/p/boom-time-startups-vs-gloom-time Below he talks about why its never a great time in either market conditions but the important thing is if you're a dedicated founder it won't matter. You'll be successful regardless. In Boom times you pay more for talent and it's harder to recruit, people don't want to leave their jobs. It's easier to get funded but you have to time the exit before the gloom or crash/recession. In the bad times it's easier to recruit top talent at a discount but it's harder to get funding. So no matter what the conditions are you just need to go for it and not worry about what the current conditions are but play to the advantages and realize the disadvantages of building during these times. The sooner you realize the economic situation the sooner you can move accordingly. Why starting a company during a recession can be a good thing The stock market is a little bloody today, so it’s about time to write this essay. When the startup market is booming, people become eager to start up new companies. Money’s flowing, there’s lots of excitement, everyone’s experimenting with new tech, and you hear/read about fast growth and instant riches. It’s during the boom times that fortunes can be made — and this view has been part of Bay Area culture ever since the Gold Rush days of the 1800s. But any founder who’s operated during this period also finds out all the downsides of boom time startups: You’re competing against 100s of other similar-sounding startups for funding Nobody wants to work for you, since they’re all working on their their own startups. Or you have to compete with multi-million dollar pay packages offered by billion dollar companies Everything costs more. Office space, vendors, domain names, and everything else is 2X or 5X what it usually costs There’s a blizzard of competition and new teams emerge all the time with similar-sounding products. Customers are mercenary, trying out multiple products but never committing Lots of idiots emerge with fake startups, but get funded nevertheless. A big hype bubble emerges across the space and it gets a little too commercial a little too fast. Sometimes products need time to bake, to become real, and if a space moves too fast, customers (and investors) will get burned Intense time pressure comes with moving fast, because growth needs to be fast. When you hear about other products going 0 to $1M ARR in weeks, it sets a high bar. And even if you get there, sustaining it is even harder It’s hard to get to know investors, who end up being too busy and thus unhelpful. But on the other hand, you’re supposed to raise your seed termsheet in 48 hours during the boom time, at the highest valuation possible, and it’s hard to have the time If this is sounding familiar, it’s because it’s what I personally experienced in the mobile boom, Web 2.0 boom, “Uber for X” boom, the ZIRP boom, and today the AI boom. There are huge benefits of these booms of course, because we see wild experimentation that eventually tells the industry where to go. I often hear experienced founders tell me the opposite, saying that starting a company during a gloomy period in the economy — a gloom time startup — has huge benefits: Quality and business fundamentals rise to the top. If you’re working on something great, and it works and has product/market fit, you’ll eventually find investors and traction and revenue. As they say, “Be so great they can’t ignore you” There’s fewer tourists, and less hype. Many of the boom-time founders will have gone back to their comfy FAANG companies, and the hardcore founders will work hard during a recessionary period. Instead of getting distracted by hype, instead gloom time founders can get heads down and work in peace Competition is less fierce. Your customers are getting fewer random cold emails from starutps, so a note from you will be more intriguing. There’s fewer pitches going to investors, and... Continue reading

Thank you to the kind folks at Canvas Rebel for a feature about Richart Ruddie for the second time. You can read the feature and see photos from Newport, Rhode Island as well: https://canvasrebel.com/meet-richart-ruddie-2/ Continue reading

To showcase the diversity and breadth of privacy in today's world you can see what sessions are happening at an upcoming conference in Washington, D.C.: Advanced Defense Strategies for Data Privacy, Adtech, and Security Breach Class Action Litigation And Mass Arbitration AI Regulation and Financial Services Regulatory Pitfalls under State Comprehensive Privacy Laws Espionage or Warfare? Preventing and Responding to Nation-State Cyber Threats Children’s Ad Tech and Privacy Privacy Regulation of Online Tracking Technologies: Court and Agency Statutory Interpretations and Enforcement Actions A Moveable Feast: The Shifting Landscape of Tracking Technologies and Health Data Post-Chevron Enforcement Awareness: A Privacy & Technology Practitioner’s Guide State Privacy Law Data Privacy & Security in the Clinical Trial Context The Crucial Issue of When Consent Is Required in AI EU Data Act: The Key Issues Privacy and IP Lawyers Should Consider Help! I am Being Audited: Navigating Cybersecurity & Data Privacy Program Assessments Cybersecurity Preparedness in Light of the SEC Cybersecurity Rules and Recent Develop Employee Data Privacy Sensitive but Business Critical: Operationalizing Sensitive Data Consents Healthcare’s Digital Frontier: Balancing AI Innovation and Privacy A Year in Review: The New SEC Cyber Disclosure Rules U.S. Privacy Federalism: The Proper Role of the Federal Government and the States in Privacy Regulation Managing AI and Privacy Risks: Developing a Coordinated Risk Management Framework “Just What the Doctor Ordered” – Regulations Affecting the Administrative and Back-Office Use of AI in Healthcare Fortifying Your Cyber Resiliency: Key Factors to Consider and Assess for Comprehensive Cyber Insurance Coverage Multi-Jurisdictional Breach Response Health Data: Navigating the Latest State and Federal Trends in Privacy and Cybersecurity Enforcement Practical Tips to Harmonize Financial and Comprehensive Privacy Laws Privacy Regulation Recommendations for Generative AI An In-House Deep Dive: Operationalizing AI, Privacy, and Governance Programs The Data Protection Implications of AI and Similar Technologies on Healthcare in the EU and US Data Scraping in a Data-Driven Landscape Focus on AI: Comparative Analysis of US vs. UK Advances in Wiretap Law Sensitive Data and the US Multi-State Maturity Model: Solving for the Patchwork of State Legislation and the Growing Complexity of Privacy Compliance Staying Ahead of the Curve: Best Practices for Online and AI-Based Advertising in a Changing Legal Landscape The Board’s Oversight Role in Cybersecurity: Trends in Preparedness and Response The FTC’s Privacy Program in Q4 2024 How Paranoia Can Power Better Privacy—Key Lessons from Security on Going Beyond Baseline Compliance Let's Be Real: What Is AI and What Do I Do About It? State of the States: Privacy Law Edition Why Health Care Privacy Is A Mess The Dark Web's Role in Incident Response: Intelligence and Action Developments in Cybersecurity Law for Healthcare Crisis Control – Ransomware Response Simulation Customer Trust at the Intersection of AI, Security, and Privacy Small Missteps, Big Consequences: Lessons for Privacy Programs from Recent Enforcement Actions AI & Algorithmic Accountability in a Rapidly Changing Environment Finding The Balance in Privacy-Safe Marketing Continue reading

Nvidia shares tank as 'Magnificent 7' stocks lose more than $650 billion in market cap in one day today. 20 years ago the largest company was GE at 600 billion in market cap. Now 7 companies are losing that much in 1 single day. Larger point drops in the stock market have become more common, and this is indeed related to the higher overall levels of the major indices today compared to 2008-2009. Here's a more detailed explanation: Higher baseline values: The Dow Jones Industrial Average and Nasdaq are at significantly higher levels now compared to 2008-2009 . As of July 26, 2024, the Dow Jones was at 40,589.34, while in 2008-2009, it was much lower Percentage vs. point drops: While point drops may seem larger, it's crucial to consider them in terms of percentage changes. A 1,000-point drop today represents a smaller percentage decline than it would have in 2008-2009 Recent market volatility: The current market is experiencing significant volatility. For instance, on August 5, 2024, the Dow tumbled more than 1,000 points, and the broader market plunged 3% . The Nasdaq, which includes many tech stocks, dropped 3.5% Historical context: Despite these large point drops, they may not be as severe in relative terms. For example, the recent 1,000-point drop in the Dow doesn't even rank among the top 100 worst days in market history when considered as a percentage Factors influencing current volatility: Recent market turbulence is attributed to various factors, including recession fears, uncertainty about Federal Reserve policies, and concerns about the profitability of AI investments Global perspective: This trend isn't limited to U.S. markets. For instance, Japan's Nikkei 225 recently experienced a 12.4% plunge, its worst day since 1987 In conclusion, while the point drops in today's market may seem dramatically larger than those in 2008-2009, it's important to consider them in the context of the much higher baseline values of the indices. Percentage changes provide a more accurate comparison of market movements across different time periods. Continue reading

After a trip to Newport, Rhode Island seeing some of the gilded age estates and mansions there I thought it may help to provide a list of similar homes and estates you can visit throughout the country starting in Florida heading north. Florida The Deering Estate in Miami Vizcaya in Miami Henry Flagler's House (Whitehall) in Palm Beach Georgia Rhodes Hall in Atlanta South Carolina Hopsewee Plantation in Georgetown North Carolina The Biltmore in Asheville Virginia Maymont in Richmond Maryland Hampton National Historic Site in Towson Delaware Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library in Winterthur Nemours Estate in Wilmington Pennsylvania The Elstree Estate in Elkins Park Lynnewood Hall in Elkins Park The Aldie Mansion in Doylestown New York Lyndhurst Mansion in Tarrytown Kykuit in Pocantico Hills Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park Oheka Castle in Huntington Connecticut Lockwood-Mathews Mansion in Norwalk Rhode Island The Breakers in Newport Marble House in Newport The Elms in Newport Rosecliff in Newport Massachusetts The Mount in Lenox Naumkeag in Stockbridge Illinois The Richard H. Driehaus Museum in Chicago The Nickerson Mansion in Chicago Ohio Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens in Akron Michigan The Edsel and Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores Missouri The Phelps Mansion in Carthage California Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills The Hearst Castle in San Simeon Filoli in Woodside Colorado Molly Brown House Museum in Denver Continue reading

Today I learned that the song is about the elation from a rave and music festival. Outside of liking the song that I first heard in Middle School this is the 25th anniversary of the song this week. The Canadian band had a budget of $100,000 for the music video but got so drunk and spent too much while on spring break in Daytona Beach in 1999 that they ended up renting scooters instead of motorcycles to film the music video. Here are films and tv shows that have featured the song since: Len's single "Steal My Sunshine" has been featured in several movies and TV shows over the years. Some notable appearances include: Movies Go (1999) Cheaper by the Dozen (2003) American Pie Presents: The Book of Love (2009) Charlie's Angels (2019) TV Shows Parks and Recreation (Season 6, Episode 19) The Office (US) (Season 6, Episode 24) New Girl (Season 3, Episode 15) Glee (Season 1, Episode 20) Pam & Tommy Continue reading

This is the email that was just received regarding a data incident from Evolve Bank via Shopify. It's important as soon as a data incident or breach is found that you promptly secure, remediate, and notify all parties affected or potentially affected. Different jurisdictions will have different time frame requirements: Important Information - Data incident at Evolve Bank & Trust (Shopify Balance banking partner) – your funds, store and account are secure Hello Richart, We are contacting you about an issue related to your store, admin.shopify.com/ Evolve Bank & Trust notified us yesterday that they suffered a data incident. Evolve is a banking partner that supports Shopify Balance. According to Evolve, bad actors have released illegally obtained data, including Personally Identifiable Information. Evolve has said this incident has been contained and there is no ongoing threat. Evolve is updating their website with new information as they learn more. For the most current information, visit this page. Your Shopify Balance Card and account login credentials, including passwords, were not exposed. Shopify Capital, Payments, and Billing are not impacted. We are closely monitoring the situation and are taking immediate steps to prevent suspicious ACH debits. As a precautionary measure, you can also monitor for unauthorized debit activity. Generally, unauthorized debits can be reversed within 2 business days. Evolve has additional information about steps you can always take to further protect your personal information and can be reached at [email protected]. You can also contact our 24/7 support team for help. Shopify Continue reading

David Senra is currently the equivalent of a Michael Jordan playing at UNC Chapel Hill currently. He's just warming up his careers and bringing his team to a collegiate championship. We haven't even gotten to see him play in the professional league yet if you measure his career like we measure an athletes. His advice is timeless and his passion for doing a podcast to spread "entrepreneurial gospel" is a gemstone for any passionate entrepreneur. Since finding him because he had lunch with one of my favorite people of all time "Sam Zell" who I covered my notes by blogging David did the same thing for Sam and was lucky enough to meet with the professional opportunist right before he passed away. Since hearing that one podcast I was hooked and have since told numerous others and the network affect starts to take place because the delivery of his product is so perfect. We will look back in 15 years at the early days of his podcast just as we look back at Facebook when Zuck was just opening Facebook up to users that didn't have a .edu email address. We had no idea how big Facebook/Meta was to become. We thought it being worth 1 billion dollars was an amazing feat. Now the company gains or loses more than a billion dollars a day. Thats my analogy on David Senra and the Founders Podcast. Continue reading

A little motivating tactic to keep on pushing harder and harder to achieve my goals that I outline is to take a look at who else was born the same year as you who's had massive success in their career. I try not to focus on athletes as there is a genetic factor at play but rather other entrepreneurs and business people that I can compare what they've done and what I've done. Let that be the measuring stick till you catch up and pass your peers. My 1985 Motivators to push harder: Sam Altman, Brian Chesky, Evan Spiegel, and Whitney Wolfe Herd. If you have a year without enough motivators than you can go +- 1 year. In that case I would be up against Mark Zuckerberg, Ben Silberman of Pinterest, and David Karp founder of Tumblr. Continue reading

Income and wealth inequality in America have long been subjects of intense debate and scrutiny. The statistics reveal a stark contrast between different segments of the population which are absolutely contrary to what you hear the pundits say. The top 10% of Americans hold 48% of the nation's income, 71% of its wealth, and pay 76% of the taxes. In contrast, the bottom 50% have only 10% of the income, 1.5% of the wealth, and often receive more in government benefits than they contribute in taxes. This disparity has significant implications for societal discontent and the pervasive sense of anger and division among citizens. The Dichotomies of Wealth Distribution To understand the roots of societal discontent, it is crucial to delve into the dichotomies of wealth distribution. The top 10% of Americans are significantly wealthier and bear a substantial portion of the tax burden. This group often includes high-income professionals, business owners, and investors who benefit from capital gains and other sources of wealth that are not as accessible to the average person. Their financial security allows for greater investments in education, healthcare, and other quality-of-life improvements, perpetuating their economic advantage. Conversely, the bottom 50% of the population, who control a mere 1.5% of the nation's wealth, face a different reality. This group often struggles with job insecurity, lower wages, and limited access to essential services. The wealth gap is not merely a reflection of income differences but also of accumulated assets and opportunities. This inequality can lead to feelings of hopelessness and frustration, as upward mobility seems increasingly out of reach if you ever read the comments on Reddit or Twitter and listen to people attack the Elon Musks of the world for being successful. Taxation and Perceived Fairness Taxation is another critical aspect of this discussion. The wealthiest Americans pay a substantial portion of the taxes, which raises questions about the fairness and effectiveness of the tax system. Critics argue that the wealthy can leverage tax loopholes and benefits to minimize their tax burden, thus not contributing their fair share relative to their wealth. On the other hand, supporters of the current system point out that the wealthy already pay a disproportionately high percentage of taxes, suggesting that they are indeed contributing significantly to the nation's revenue. For the bottom 50%, the tax system often provides more benefits than it extracts. Many in this group qualify for tax credits, subsidies, and other forms of government assistance designed to alleviate poverty and provide basic needs. While these benefits are essential for survival, they can also perpetuate dependency and a sense of disenfranchisement, as individuals feel they are not progressing economically despite the aid they receive. The Emotional and Social Impact The emotional and social impact of these economic disparities cannot be overstated. The perceived inequality and unfairness fuel discontent and anger, contributing to societal divisions. Those in the lower economic brackets may feel resentment towards the wealthy, whom they perceive as having an unfair advantage and living in a different reality. This resentment is exacerbated by visible displays of wealth and success, often highlighted in media and popular culture. On the flip side, the wealthy may feel unjustly targeted and misunderstood. They might believe that their hard work and success are being unfairly criticized, leading to a defensive posture and further entrenchment of social divides. The lack of empathy and understanding between different economic groups fosters a cycle of blame and mistrust, hindering constructive dialogue and potential solutions. Moving Towards a Solution Addressing these dichotomies requires a multifaceted approach. Policy changes aimed at reducing income and wealth inequality, such as progressive taxation, increased access to education, and social safety nets, are essential. Additionally, fostering a culture of empathy and understanding can help bridge the divide between different economic groups. Encouraging dialogue and collaboration, rather than conflict and blame, can pave the way for a more equitable and harmonious society. In conclusion, the discontent and anger prevalent in society are rooted in the stark economic dichotomies between the top 10% and the bottom 50% of Americans. Addressing these issues requires both policy interventions and a shift in societal attitudes towards empathy and cooperation. By working towards a more balanced and... Continue reading

I have a Tesla and when you put on the full self driving with the 3 clicks you end up getting the Saturday Night Live "More Cowbell" set where they want more cowbell. So if you're like me and want to figure out how to turn this off here is the very simple solution. When you click 3 times and you get the Tesla More Cowbell Don't Fear the Reaper by the Blue Oyster Cult you can simply just hit the volume button and it will turn off the segment. If you want to disable the easter egg completely so it never comes on you will have to search and find the Toybox and disable the feature. Continue reading

The Baltimore Sun piece showcasing the issues with the art collector community in Baltimore compared to the growing art collectors in New York and South Florida. The piece talks about the importance of public art displays and how it can convey a sense of identity. In Baltimore City when you go to an Orioles game you see the world famous Babe Ruth statue and there is a wrinkle with the sculpture though. Ruth who was born in Baltimore has his glove on his right hand but he was a lefty. Little art nuisances like this make for a memorable piece that stays in our heads. I learned about this during an elementary school field trip and still talk about it today. One quote from the Baltimore Sun piece: "In Baltimore, public art can convey a sense of identity, commemorating historical events or celebrating the diversity of its people. By witnessing such art, individuals should be inspired to become active participants in shaping their communities and advocating for positive change. Thus, art’s influence extends far beyond aesthetics; it stimulates our minds, stirs our emotions and encourages us to explore the depths of human experience. Ultimately, art leaves an indelible mark on our lives, serving as a testament to our creativity, resilience, and capacity to connect with one another across time and space yet the amount of known art collectors is still slim." "Ruddie’s advice for future entrepreneurs who want to create their own “annuity” and lottery ticket is to focus on an idea that has merit, work hard and dedicate your life to it while ignoring the noise and distractions that won’t bring you peace and prosperity. After COVID-19 ran rampant in Maryland, and as many high-net-worth residents and business owners became tired of cold weather, high taxes and state leadership, Ruddie migrated south to Florida. He believes a trend of traveling down Interstate 95 to places like South Carolina and Florida to work and come back to visit Maryland will become the norm. Ruddie still maintains a home in Baltimore that has sentimental art from his grandmother. In his office just outside of the Maryland border, the art aficionado has a beautiful painting that hangs over his desk. People often look at it and wonder if it’s a painting or a photo. When you look at it up close and see the charcoal, it makes a lasting impact the way art should." Baltimore does maintain one of the worlds best aquariums which has dolphins swimming around but there is no longer a dolphin show. Continue reading

Stanford University released a white paper thats 35 pages long about Material Selection to improve sustainaiblity in the apparel industry. If you are building a sustainable textiles based business this may be a valuable read: Download Vcii-white-paper-material-selection-improve-sustainability Continue reading

Dave Pascoe is another emerging longevity expert who has been sharing his epigentic results and is worth keeping an eye on. I outlined my personal longevity routines and lifestyle that is more manageable to most. Below are links to Pascoe's longevity: https://www.davepascoe.net/home/my-daily-routines https://sites.google.com/view/davepascoe/home/my-interventions Continue reading

The road to success is paved with mistakes well handled. The definition of business is problems. Success lies not in the elimination but in the art of creative profitable problem solving the best companies solve problems most effectively. Best companies are problem solving machines. Continue reading

Jeff Bezos has a video where he provides some of the best blueprint tips for you to follow in the leadership of your startup to get the upper edge on the competition: 1. You don't choose a passion, a passion chooses you. It's very hard to make meaningful change on something you are not naturally passionate about. Your energy, focus, and resilience will be much higher, and you will be much more likely to succeed. A passion is a gift. Use it. (If you love something you are passion and if you followed my follow your efforts and people will start to pay you for what you're good at you tend to find that your passion and what people want to pay you for our intertwined because you are likely to be very good at something that you have a passion for). 2. Take pride in your effort, not your talents. Your talents are a gift, you didn't do anything to earn them. You should take pride in what you do with them. True excellence comes from combining gifts with dedication and effort. (Working & studying hard/practicing consistently). Read the book Relentless and Grit to learn about how those who find pride accelerate. 3. Good leaders are right a lot. This is one I think about everyday. "Being right a lot" has nothing to do with intelligence, it's a skill that requires discipline, humility, & comfortability with looking like an idiot. Here's how anyone can get good at "being right a lot" 3.1 To be right a lot, you have to listen a lot. Most of being right a lot is about gathering as much data as possible. Good leaders listen. They develop the ability to ask good questions and to challenge bias. They seek out people with different perspectives. (Its important to know what you don't and understand that you don't know everything but you can hire smarter people around you who can help guide and advise). 3.2 To be right a lot, you must change your mind a lot. Smart people rarely change their mind, lest they look stupid. This is dangerous. The world is complicated & sometimes you get new data. Take pride in changing your mind often, especially on your most deeply held beliefs. (Read a book on predicting the future and how the best predictors really can't predict far out but rather time is the best indicator to predict and forecast accurately. The closer you are to an event the more likely you will be correct about the outcome.) This is the most important one. People may say you're a fool/don't know what you're doing. These people are wrong. Changing your mind is good & the only way to find truth. To do it consistently, you must get rid of any internal need for people to think you're smart. (Confirmation on the forecasting note above). 3.3 To be right a lot, you must seek out info that challenge your most deeply held beliefs. We like to consume evidence that confirms our beliefs, but you HAVE to seek out data that disconfirms your beliefs. You must find methods and ways to get this data often & consistently. (If you've read about traders and hedge funds who take this thesis to disprove themselves and figure out what the gaps and holes are in their strategy. Same beliefs are upheld in a startup.) 4. Be stubborn on vision, and flexible on details You have to be constantly experimenting. Avoid sunk cost bias at all cost. Be willing to pivot all of your work to something new when you encounter new data. The startup graveyard is filled with companies rigid on details. 5. Without failure, there is no invention. You must be willing to fail, publicly & embarrassingly. You must be proud of your failure & seek to grow the size of your failures with the size of your successes. This is the hardest one to execute in SV's "crushing it" culture. (Be fallible and know that failures are learning opportunities to strengthen you long term). Hat tip and thank you to Garret Scott Continue reading

QOTD: Actions Express Priority. Continue reading

So many great ideas never see their light because of laziness. Ikigai: Discover your purpose in life. Determine the reason you wake up each morning. Choose something that aligns with your strengths, passions, and the needs of the world. This is what gives life meaning. Kaizen: Focus on small improvements every day. You don’t have to do everything at once, just aim to make progress little by little. Pomodoro Technique: Work for 25 minutes, take a break for 5, then repeat. This helps you stay focused and avoid burnout. It’s a game-changer for productivity! Hara Hachi Bu: Don't stuff yourself! Eat until you’re 80% full and you'll feel more energised throughout the day. Plus, you won't have to unbutton your pants after lunch. Shoshin: Approach tasks with a beginner's mindset. Don’t worry about being perfect or having all the answers Just be open to learning and trying new things. Wabi-sabi: ​​​​​​​Embrace imperfection! Instead of stressing over every little detail, focus on what's important and find beauty in simplicity. Done is better than perfect, so go ahead and take action! Forest Bathing: Spend time in nature! It’s scientifically proven to reduce stress and improve your mood. Take a walk in the park, breathe in fresh air, and let nature recharge you. Kakeibo: Make a budget and stick to it. When you have your finances in order, you'll feel less stressed and more motivated to tackle your other goals. Continue reading

Whats in a name? At the heart of every successful enterprise lies a super heroes story, a promise woven into the very fabric of its name. "Captain Compliance" is not just a name; it's a beacon guiding businesses through the tumultuous seas of regulatory frameworks and compliance standards. In a world where the rules of engagement are constantly evolving, having a steadfast leader or captain in this case at the helm is invaluable. The moniker 'Captain' immediately conjures images of authority, experience, and leadership, while 'Compliance' signals a deep commitment to adherence and integrity. Together, they form a powerful narrative of safeguarding and guidance. Captain Compliance was started just a short time ago and is already emerging as a trusted ally, navigating the complex waters of legal and ethical obligations with precision and care. It's a name that speaks volumes, promising expertise, reliability, and unwavering support to those striving to maintain the highest standards of operation while ensuring that they are checking the data privacy requirements thanks to our guidance and software. Through our implicit branding, Captain Compliance tells a story of vigilance, expertise, and dedication, offering peace of mind in a landscape filled with challenges and opportunities. So with great nomenclature we can accelerate and explain what we offer in just a name. Some other notes on why Captain Compliance will be another successful Richart Ruddie venture. Captain Compliance Sayings We believe in bringing superhero like determination to face all kinds of challenges and help with that same rigor to resolve for our clients. We firmly believe that our destiny is determined by our actions and not by our origins Action solves issues Our super hero team who are rapidly climbing up in the compliance industry are fully committed to what they are doing and the cause behind what we are building. They sincerely love the work that we are doing. In life it's said that if you sincerely love the work that you do you will naturally succeed and that is inspired in all of our compliance superheros Enthusiasm is our super hero force multiplier to everything that we do Be fully committed and we will see great success Continue reading