South Korea in Shaky Transition

Sometimes it happens fast. Other times it happens so fast no one saw it coming, and the only thing left to do is to wonder what just happened … and why. Such is the case of South Korean President Park Geun-Hye last Friday.

The move was largely unexpected, dropping the country into a hot cauldron of uncertainty even as it faces a sluggish economy at home and growing military threats from North Korea as well as growing economic threats from China abroad.

BucketFeet Trying to Reinvent Footwear

Every company has a mission, and every brand has a purpose. For some, it’s about a cause or a deep-seated desire for change. For others, it’s about innovation or just making as much money as possible. All noble goals. For footwear company BucketFeet, the goal is to connect people through art.

The company began as the epitome of the Everyman Makes Good story. Raaja Nemani and Aaron Firestein met while volunteering at a slum in Argentina. Firestein was working as a photographer in the country, but, as a hobby, he painted plain white Converse and sold them through Facebook.

Has your nonprofit answered these key questions?

Markets always change, that’s the real constant. And those shifts, whether they be motivated by economics, consumer moods or another factor, impact nonprofit organizations as well. Sometimes, these factors hit charity organizations sooner … and harder. So, what questions should you ask to set yourself up for success and protect your place in the market when change is always coming.

How’s your cash flow? Cash should not be a dirty word in nonprofit work. You need to be able to make your bills and still have enough in reserves for slow times, marketing, PR, and business-building. Doing administration and doing it as it should be done is worth what it costs.

Maher latest media man to look under the hood

HBO funnyman and political commentator Bill Maher is doing some very public soul searching, the latest in a series of media personalities, most on the left, who have had "come to Jesus” moments subsequent to the 2016 presidential election.

A few days after far-right political commentator and radio host Glenn Beck offered a stunning – and many say wholly disingenuous – retraction of … pretty much the bulk of his career … comedian and TV host Bill Maher has come out to admit he should have taken Trump more seriously, and he regrets some of his thinking and commentaries.

Financial Tips for UK Families



Money may not be everything, but most U.K. residents will agree that it is important for peace of mind, security and overall well-being. Parents in the United Kingdom often feel stressed or anxious about their financial situation, and this is because it often seems like there is not enough money available regardless of your level of income. While this is a common sentiment, the good news is that there are steps that you can take to improve your financial situation.

Fogle’s ex says Subway knew about her husband’s crimes and did nothing

When the general public found out about the secret sins of Subway spokesman Jared Fogle, they were unilaterally disgusted. Subway quickly distanced its brand from the guy who’d been the face of the company for nearly two decades, and Fogle went to jail on multiple charges related to pedophilia. Everyone was disgusted, but at least it was over … right?

English Uber drivers get a big win

Uber just got out of court. Again. This time the case was in England, and, this time, Uber lost. In a battle against their own employees, Uber was instructed to make sure British Uber drivers not only make at least the standard minimum wage but also qualify for paid leave and other benefits.

Top Tips to Energize Your Startup

When you are planning a startup, you know you want to come out of the blocks at a sprint, to start fast and get that cash flow up as soon as you can. Step two is to build to sustain, to keep growing but also protecting your gains. New CEOs must keep both in mind at all times, or they will start the race quickly, only to crash and burn just as fast. You need to energize your startup and build it to last. Here are some tips to help you make that happen.

Jenner stalking hits the headlines

In the wake of the reported theft of millions in jewelry from Kim Kardashian and subsequent allegations related to the reports, “Keeping Up” was shelved indefinitely. Now Kim K’s sister, Kendall Jenner, is making her own headlines.

Supplement Maker Accepts Quality Control Decision

Pick up any bottle of herbal supplements and many common “vitamins” and workout aids, and you will find the familiar phrase: “these statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration” or another popular disclaimer: “this product is not intended to treat or cure any disease.”

Heat on the hot seat as Bosh fails physical

They say It Comes in Threes, and this may be It for the Miami Heat. Just a few short seasons ago, the Miami Heat were a dominant team, talking about Franchise of the 2000’s Status and multiple championships. But the past couple of seasons have not been kind to the NBA’s franchise in Miami.
First, longtime star and stalwart Dwyane Wade saw his numbers drop. Bringing in LeBron James from Cleveland helped, but the promised multiple championships never came. Then James and then there was only one of the Big Three left in Miami. But now center and team foundation Chris Bosh has failed his league physical. Bosh will not be allowed to participate in training camp, and his status for the season is in doubt.

Healthcare question nags Trump

One school of thought says nothing can derail the Trump train. He’s going to win, and he’s going to carry a wave of “change” to Washington. Others say that will never happen. Too much baggage. Too much inexperience … too much Trump to actually win.

How Much Money Do You Need to Retire?

Retiring has become harder to do nowadays than it was in the past. With rising market prices and job instability and scarcity, people find themselves working more than 40 hours per week just to make ends meet. For the select few who do manage to earn money, most of it is splurged into unnecessary purchases, like the newest smartphone model or a plasma screen TV. Before spending your hard-earned paycheck, ask yourself "how much money do I need to retire?" Here's four ways you can answer that important question.

Another Recommendation on Finance Books Millennials Should Read

Creating a financial plan can be tough. Millennials today are starting off in a very different world from past generations. A Millennial is defined as a person reaching young adulthood around the year 2000. With technology booming, there are now apps and books available to them that weren’t available to previous generations.

“Wonka” actors offer tribute to Gene Wilder

With the recent death of Gene Wilder, apparently to complications related to Alzheimer’s, the entertainment industry lost a true giant, a performer beloved by generations for very different reasons.

Top 3 Finance Books for Millennials

If you are looking to learn more about financial topics such a creating a budget, paying off debt and saving for retirement, there are some important books to add to your reading list. These three books offer advice all millennials should take into consideration when mapping out their financials.

Nate Parker denies rape allegations

Sometimes success can come back to bite you. Somewhere during his rising wave of fame thanks to “Birth of a Nation” someone leaked a long ago rape allegation story about director Nate Parker. Did he or didn’t he? The headlines insinuated.

Clinton Foundation now facing accusations of money laundering

So, now a Fox News personality is accusing Hillary Clinton of money laundering. Put your guns away, we’ll go over “consider the source” in a moment. But let’s get to the meat of this controversy first.

Costs, Benefits, and Sorrows of Hosting the Olympics

It has always been considered a high honor to be the host city of the Olympics. But, almost as important as honor, is also the anticipated revenue and profit expected to come to a city during the Olympics and forever after. City officials have hopes that tourists will flock to the reputed Olympic city, as television viewers fall in love with what they see and travel to the hosting city for years to come.

Charlotte loses NBA All-Star Game

Ever since the dust-up in North Carolina over gender neutral bathrooms fired off, there have been substantial social, PR, and financial consequences for the state, and for the city at the epicenter of the debate: Charlotte.

Why You Should Invest in an Index Fund

There are quite a lot of financial assets people invest in nowadays, from common stocks to real estate investment trusts. Index funds is another one of these investable assets you can allocate your capital to. But before investing in these funds, there are several key questions you need to ask and have answered. For instance, what exactly are index funds and what features do they have that make them a worthwhile investment?

Game of Thrones Engages Fans with Even More Questions

The secret to compelling serial storytelling is to create more questions even as you answer those your fans are already considering. Sometimes you answer them quickly. Others you draw out and only hint at, prolonging the pleasure of wonder, curiosity, and debate for your viewers.

Koreans Want This VW Exec arrested

The war for automaker supremacy has always been a metaphorical blood sport, but now one country is calling for the arrest of an executive leader at another country’s chief automaker. A South Korean court has issued an arrest warrant for a Volkswagen Korea executive, identified as “Yun,” blasting him with five charges including document fabrication and violation of multiple laws.

Latest Massacre Ignites Gun Debate in Congress

The Orlando terrorist attack was one of the largest mass shootings in the nation’s history, and you can bet people are taking sides in DC.

Big Brands Furious Over Propaganda Pitch

If you don’t live in the U.K., you may not be aware of a strong and concerted push by some to encourage Britain to exit the European Union. Some Brits don’t want to be taken down with what they see as a sinking ship, and they don’t want to be on the hook to help out some struggling countries, socially or economically.

Champion Surfer Commoditizes His Dream

For decades now, there has only been one “face” of professional surfing. Even if you don’t follow the sport, you are probably familiar with the name Kelly Slater. The Florida native is, without question, the world’s most-recognized surfer, and now Slater is trying to turn that name recognition into a promotional force behind something that used to be anathema to surfers: the man-made wave.

Super Fight Breaks the Box Office…and the Internet

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice seems to be a movie battle destined to not only play out on the big screen but in countless social media threads and blog comments for the rest of the year…or until the next superhero movie comes out.

Performance Reviews: Metrics vs. Gut Checks

As a manager, you need an objective, fair, and reasonable way to grade your employee’s work. There are many reasons why this is necessary. The rub here, really, is how you conduct a review and what they really tell you? It’s an important question, especially in the U.S. where 90 percent of all nonunion labor receives some sort of review and reviews are mandatory for all federal government workers.

How Governmental Regulations on Lyft & Uber Are Affecting Other Rideshare Companies

Once young upstarts in the ridesharing community themselves, companies Uber and Lyft have in recent years seen a wave of backlash directed at them. Originally and primarily from taxi companies, they've also seen a rash of government enforcement of regulations that have effectively crippled the ridesharing services' ability to offer rides to people in certain communities. In the city of Austin, Texas, for example, both Uber and Lyft ride-sharing services have stopped operating after voters in the usually liberal city rejected a ballot measure that would've allowed the companies to regulate themselves. The vote had 56% supporting tighter regulations, with 44% opposed. Austin's mayor had this to say on the matter:

 "The people have spoken tonight loud and clear. Uber and Lyft are welcome to stay in Austin, and I invite them to the table regardless. Austin is an innovative and creative city, and we'll need to be at our most creative and innovative now."

Is the GOP Buying What Trump is Selling?

As the eternal campaign season slaloms into summertime, both Democrats and Republicans face a PR crisis unprecedented in the modern era. Both top candidates face major unfavorable ratings, and both also face a strong insurgency from outsider candidates. Hillary is fighting Independent Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, who is neck and neck for the nomination despite not actually being a Democrat.

Michael Strahan Will Energize Good Morning America!

When Regis Philbin left LIVE it was “common knowledge” Kelly Ripa would be the star of the show, no matter who they brought in to team with her. Then the network found ex-NFL superstar Michael Strahan, and he hit daytime TV every bit as hard as he mauled opposing QBs in his playing days. Fans loved the congenial gap-toothed former Giant, whose easy banter and sharp wit kept them smiling and engaged.

Fiat CEO Sets a Timeline for Self-driving Cars

Ask just about any automaker and they’ll tell you self-driving cars are likely an inevitability. But at least one brand is willing to put a timeline on the project. Fiat Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne recently told the Associated Press driver-less cars could be on the road within five years.

Make It a Great Place to Work!

Hey manager, your office can be a great place to work, but it’s up to you to turn that “want” into reality. Every person in your organization is in a key position to be a positive or negative influence on your office morale, but you are the center of that dynamic. You control all the levers and buttons to put things in motion. It is absolutely up to you to set the standard and create the expectation that leads to a dynamic, positive working environment. Here’s how to make it happen.

First, change the dialogue. You don’t have “tasks” that must be accomplished. You have “opportunities” that you get to achieve. It may sound corny and cheesy and, it is a little. But it’s also effective. Because it’s not just about changing the verbiage. It’s about changing the approach. These shifts have to be reflected in more than the language. They have to be apparent in the how and the why.

Can Sprint Really Compete?

It’s a question many mobile industry watchers wonder. Even as the brand continues a full court press toward going head to head with industry leader, Verizon, people want to know, can Sprint really compete?

In 2014, when Marcelo Claure was appointed CEO, Sprint was in dire trouble. Not only did they have the slowest 4G network, the company had just been rated the “worst carrier in the country.” Not an auspicious start, but hey, there’s something to be said for “only way to go is up.”

Hey Manager! This is Your Job.

Do you want to be a good manager, a great manager or do you want to be Michael Scott? It’s not about talent, and it’s absolutely a choice. There are several key components of strong and effective management you must understand if you want to be successful.

NFL versus the NY Times

 

The NFL swings a very big stick in both financial and PR concerns, but they may have bit off more than they can chew taking on the New York Times in a PR battle.

How Much Money You Should be Saving From Your Paycheck

 

Investment advisors are fond of saying wealth is not about timing the market, it's about time in the market. Over time, the U.S. stock market has produced more wealth than nearly any other kind of investment. For prudent, and more importantly patient investors, the gradual accumulation of stock equity and a balanced approach to other kinds of investments is the key to both building wealth and successful retirement.

5 Social Media Tricks to Gain Popularity for Your Small Business

Social media has always been known to be a powerful source for immense growth and development, but the key is to make sure that you use these social networks effectively. Social media can play a key role on how you gain more popularity and build a following online. Discover the five best social media tricks to gain instant popularity for your brand, and find out how to implement them to gain true success.

Can Mayer Survive at Yahoo?

Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer is still trying to keep her job, despite the growing number of people demanding her dismissal. Shareholders, disappointed with Yahoo’s apparent inability to pull out of a dive, are among the loudest critics. In response to these calls, Mayer agreed to an interview with PBS anchor Charlie Rose.

Yahoo Suffering Identity Crisis

As industries change and markets shift there’s always an also-ran. A business once profitable that can’t seem to find a new way to make money when folks no longer want what they offer. Currently facing a similar situation: Yahoo.

How Big Data Delivers Answers Without All The Work

 

Big Data is a complex science growing ever more complex. And that’s true. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be set up to deliver more accurate results with much less work. To compete at any level, businesses need good data.

Survival Guide for Young Financial Professionals

As a young financial professional, you are growing your career, getting a hold on your personal finances and trying to find that allusive work-life balance. You may feel overwhelmed, but there are many strategies out there to help.

Bush Continues to Fire at Trump

 

You can tell the primary season is about to begin in earnest. Candidates have stopped sending glancing blows and are now trying to strike in earnest. Particularly those trying to come back from way behind. Jeb Bush, who was once considered a top-tier near shoo-in nominee, has decided his best way back is to keep hammering away at Donald Trump.

How to Become a Leading Investor in NY

 

The Path to Become a Leading Investor in N.Y. Once the graduate degree is in hand, forward movement is the next big step. Many graduate students will naturally consider the path forward to become a leading investor in N.Y. NewYork's financial district is a maze and a wonderland of intricacies that grad students need to study carefully before choosing the best path forward.

7 Things all Entrepreneurs Should Do on the Weekend

 

As an entrepreneur, you may find it difficult to put your work aside for the weekend. Though, it's hard to believe, even the most demanding business ventures can wait until Monday. However, you can prepare yourself for the upcoming week by following these 7 steps.

How to Get and Grow a Career as Financier

 

Working in the field of finance is a decision that you have made for yourself; however, you are still navigating the waters of this vast ocean. Instead of floundering around and waiting for an opportunity to fall into your lap, motivate yourself to take the necessary steps for success.

News Station Ad Backfires Horribly

 

Girl power pro women adverts are all the rage these days, but when a French TV station tried to borrow some of that goodwill, they just ended up with rage.

End-to-End Healthcare Marketing Across the Customer Lifecycle to Multicultural Markets

 

Health care in multicultural markets can get complicated. But that can also be true for Caucasians. There is great diversity among and within each group. It is estimated that the Hispanic group has approximately $2 trillion of disposable income. That is just one cultural group. But let’s discuss some of the basics.

Making Your Mark Before You Go

2015 dealt its share of loss in the business world. Many up and coming young entrepreneurs and business moguls left us far too soon … but that doesn’t mean they failed to leave their mark. Check out what these innovators did with their short time on this earth.