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This paper is available on arxiv under CC 4.0 license. Authors: (1)Eason Chen, Carnegie Mellon University; (2) Justa Liang, Bucket Protocol; (3) Ray Huang, Bucket Protocol; (4) Pierce Hung, Bucket Protocol; (5) Damien Chen, Bucket Protocol; (6) Ashley Hsu, Bucket Protocol; (7) Konstantinos Chalkias, Mysten Labs; (8) Stefanos Pleros Mysten Labs. TABLE OF LINKS Abstract and Introduction Background Randomness Practice in Blockchain System Development Transaction Fee Comparison Discussion Conclusion and References 4. SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT In this section, we will begin by describing the implementation of the most basic raffle system, explaining its limitations, and introducing solutions. Then, we will gradually iterate our design to an advanced and production-ready raffle system. Source codes of different designs are at https://github.com/Bucket-Protocol/raffle-paper. 4.1 Basic Raffle System with DRAND The goal of Basic Raffle is to enable the host to randomly select a winner from a group of participants and send the prize to that winner. The design of the Basic Raffle is intuitive and straightforward. As shown in Figure 1, to initiate the random raffle, the host calls the Move smart contract’s create_coin_raffle, which includes three key parameters: Clock, Participants and Prize. Clock is an object on the Sui platform that allows smart contracts to obtain the current time. Participants is an array containing all participants’ addresses. Prize is an object about the reward for the raffle winner The function then performs the following: create_coin_raffle (1) Calculate the DRAND round: The function calculates the current DRAND round according to the current time. (2) Initiate: The function creates a Raffle Object. Raffle Object includes an array of participants, “current DRAND round + N” as the target DRAND round and the prize. N can be set to any number greater than 2, depending on when the creator wants to know the results. (3) : If the prize is a fungible coin, the function converts the prize object to balance and saves it in a field of the Raffle. If the prize is not fungible, the function saves the prize as a sub-object. Lock the prize Then, when the signature of the current DRAND round + N is revealed, anyone can settle the raffle by calling which perform the following steps: settle_coin_raffle, (1) : The function checks the input DRAND signature is valid. Verify (2) : The function first computes a random value based on the DRAND signature and subsequently uses this random value to pick a winner from the participants’ array. It then proceeds to transfer the prize to the selected winner. Execute (3) : The function emits events about the raffle result. Then, clear the participants’ array to release space. Settle The creation and settlement process is illustrated at the first and second in Figure 1. Transaction Block . The has three advantages. Firstly, it fully utilizes DRAND’s capabilities, ensuring that the Raffle’s outcome remains unknown initially while allowing anyone to settle and verify the results. Additionally, the rewards are securely locked within the contract once the Raffle is created, preventing organizers from running multiple Raffles and picking the favorable result, thereby guaranteeing fairness in the process. Lastly, the settlement process involves data clearance and offers a Storage Rebate, creating a strong incentive for anyone to settle the raffle. 4.1.1 Advantages Basic Raffle . However, there are several limitations when considering Basic Raffle for production use. First, Sui limits the size of transaction blocks, permitting an array size input of approximately 400 addresses. Consequently, the creation process will encounter errors if the host intends to include more than 400 participants in the Raffle. Furthermore, there is a size restriction of 250 KB for Sui Objects. Even if the host manages to input a sufficient number of addresses, the Raffle object cannot accommodate more than 7500 addresses. Therefore, it becomes necessary to leverage other features of Sui to accommodate more addresses. 4.1.2 Limitations 4.2 Raffle with Object Table The Object Table feature within Sui enables a parent object to own other objects. functioning in a manner akin to Mapping in Solidity or a Dictionary in Python. As depicted in Figure 2, Object Table empowers a Raffle Object to possess multiple sub-objects, such as several Prize Objects and Participant Address Objects. Under these circumstances, we can establish a mechanism that automatically splits participants and prize addresses into separate sub-objects according to size. When the size surpasses 7,500, a fresh sub-object can be created and put under the Object Table, with its corresponding key added to the Object Table key list. In the case of using a single-tier Object Table, this strategic setup allows a Raffle to accommodate an impressive 7, 500 2 , which equals 56, 250, 000 addresses, a capacity more than sufficient for most practical scenarios. Additionally, it is possible to implement multiple levels of Object Table if even larger quantities are needed. Through the use of Object Table, we have addressed the issue of the number of addresses that an Object can accommodate. This type of Raffle is suitable for situations where users actively join by paying for themselves, such as a lottery. An example scenario is as follows: 4.2.1 . Advantages (1) : The host initiates the raffle by locking the prizes within the contract, setting the entry fee, and establishing a deadline using DRAND’s Round. Initiate (2) : Participants submit their entry fees to the contract. The smart contract verifies that the deadline has not been exceeded and the fees are valid. Then, it adds the users’ address to the Address Object within the Object Table fields of the Raffle Object. If the Address Object is full, a new Address Object is created under the Object Table. Participants Join (3) : When the designated time arrives, anyone can settle using DRAND Signatures, and the prizes are sent to the winner’s wallet while the entry fees are transferred to the host’s wallet. Settle . In the above case of the raffle, the block size won’t be an issue as users enter one address at a time. However, if we wish to input many addresses at once, we still have to deal with the block size limitation of only being able to enter 400 addresses in a single attempt. This limitation becomes particularly cumbersome when, for example, users who want to create a raffle with 2000 addresses must go through the signing process five times. This problem can be resolved using the Delegate Object Creation or Zero-Knowledge Proof approach. 4.2.2 Limitations 4.3 Raffle with Delegate Object Creation aims to streamline the process for users with the help of a Delegate Host, enabling them to efficiently input numerous addresses into Raffle Object at the Sui Network with just one wallet operation. The steps of Delegate Object Creation are depicted in Figure 3 and described in the following: Delegate Object Creation (1) When a user wants to create a Raffle, he first sends all addresses to the backend of the Delegate Host. (2) The Delegate Host then batches these addresses and writes them into an Delegated Object using its backend’s Private Key while paying the storage fee. The fee will reflected as a usage fee in the field of Delegated Object. (3) Then, the user can initiate the raffle with the address table in Delegated Object in a single transaction. Moreover, when using the Address Object, the user pays the storage fee and transaction fees to the Delegate Host. When users settle a raffle, they can rebate the storage fee by clearing their data to reclaim most usage fees. Additionally, if users do not use the Delegated Object for certain times, the Delegate Host can proactively remove data from the Delegated Object to rebate the storage fee. The advantage of Delegate Object Creation is that users only need to open their wallet and perform the signature once to create a Raffle with lots of participant addresses. By doing so, all participants’ addresses are stored on the transaction history of Sui Network, allowing every participant to verify their inclusion in the Raffle. 4.3.1 . Advantages The limitation of Delegate Object Creation is the waiting time. At the backend, it typically takes 1 second per transaction to upload 400 addresses. If there are 20,000 addresses, users will experience approximately a 50-second waiting time. Moreover, if users only need to select a few winners from many addresses, this method of writing and clearing addresses is inefficient. Consequently, we have developed another approach using Zero-Knowledge Proofs to quickly create a raffle with many addresses. 4.3.2 . Limitations 4.4 Raffle with Zero-Knowledge Proof Zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) is a cryptography and mathematical technique [13] employed within the realm of blockchain to verify the authenticity of a statement while preserving the confidentiality of the statement’s details. The uses of ZKP in blockchain now extend beyond safeguarding privacy [24] but also encompass optimization in on-chain data storage to enhance efficiency [11]. The most renowned use of ZKP for storage optimization is Ethereum’s Zero-Knowledge rollups (ZK-rollups) [11] with Merkle Tree. Merkle Tree is a cryptography binary tree structure used for data validation [15]. Merkle Tree ensures data integrity and facilitates efficient verification, making it particularly advantageous when handling extensive data while optimizing bandwidth and computational resources. Illustrated in the right side of Figure 4, in Merkle Tree, each leaf node corresponds to a data block within this structure, whereas each non-leaf node stores the hash of its child nodes. The uppermost node above all the leaves is called the Merkle Root. The number of data blocks that a Merkle Tree can accommodate is related to its number of layers. A Merkle Tree with 𝑁 layers can accommodate 2 𝑁 data blocks. To confirm the authenticity of a target data leaf, one only needs to calculate the hash of the target leaf and hash it with the hashes of intermediate Merkle nodes (referred to as the Merkle Proof), then compare the outcome with the Merkle Root to ensure they match. With the implementation of Merkle Tree, ZK-rollups can handle many transactions with a low transaction fee as it only publishes the Merkle Root of these transactions to the Mainnet. A similar mechanism, as illustrated in Figure 4, can also be applied to optimize data storage for the raffle system. The steps for using Merkle Tree to handle participants’ addresses in a ZK-raffle include the following: (1) : Collect and organize the addresses of all participants. Prepare (2) : Generate the Merkle Tree and store it in the backend database. Generate (3) : Create the ZK-raffle by incorporating the Merkle root, prizes, and the count of Merkle leaves. The smart contract then calculates the DRAND round based on the current time. Initiate (4) Employ the DRAND Signature to determine the raffle’s outcome and identify the list of IDs for winners. Settle Raffle: (5) Anyone can use the ID, participant’s address, and Merkle Proofs to claim the prize. The smart contract will check the ID is in the winner list and that the hash of the ID and address with Merkle Proofs is aligned with the Merkle root. After claiming, the ID will be removed from the winner array to avoid double-claiming. Claim Reward: The ZK-raffle offers four notable advantages. Firstly, thanks to the lightweight nature of ZKP, the host can launch a ZK-raffle with lots of participants with low transaction fees since the host only needs to store the Merkle Root on the smart contract to represent numerous addresses. Additionally, because the Merkle Tree generation takes place in the backend, the ZK-raffle can be computed and prepared in an extremely short amount of time. Furthermore, this method eliminates the need for Storage Rebates, reducing the financial burden for the raffle creation and the load on the network 4.4.1 . Advantages ZK-raffle has two limitations. First is its complicated prize distribution process. Each prize distribution involves multiple rounds of hashing calculations with Merkle Proofs, which can be costly when there are many winners. Second, the Merkle Tree’s storage tends to be centralized with a database containing all Merkle Tree and Proofs data. This database is essential for users to confirm and claim their rewards or verify their raffle participation. If the database encounters data custody issues resulting in the loss of Merkle Proofs, all rewards may become locked within the smart contract. 4.4.2 . Limitations 4.5 ZK-raffle with single-key VRF In addition to DRAND Randomness, employing a ZK-raffle with the host’s VRF outputs is a wise choice because they share common limitations, necessitating a centralized host to provide Merkle Proof or single-key VRF to settle the raffle. Moreover, since the Merkle root won’t be cleared after the raffle is settled, it is possible to use the same raffle multiple times. Therefore, they can be integrated to create a fair web3 raffle system, allowing users to draw random prizes fairly Illustrated in Figure 5, implementing a ZK-raffle with Signature Randomness includes the following steps: (1) The host initiates the ZK-raffle smart contract, providing essential parameters such as the Merkle Root, prize count, and public key, while setting the entrance fee at 10 Sui. (2) A user enters the raffle by paying the 10 Sui entrance fee. Subsequently, the raffle smart contract generates a raffle ticket that includes the fee and forwards it to the host. (3) The host settles the raffle ticket by verifying the VRF output (i.e., BLS signature) and computing a random result through the signature. Afterward, by validating the Merkle Proof to confirm that the random result indeed corresponds to the Prize NFT provided by the host, the host received the 10 Sui Entrance Fee while the user received the Prize NFT. A ZK-raffle with host’s VRF offers three significant advantages. Firstly, it is highly lightweight, avoiding data storage issues commonly associated with other versions of raffles. Secondly, it ensures that the host cannot manipulate the probabilities, as anyone can calculate the Merkle Proof to determine their chances of winning the overall prize, making it ideal for prize raffles such as gaming loot-box. Thirdly, it strikes a good balance between centralization and decentralization. While both Merkle Proofs and Signatures require centralized resources, the host must provide these resources to claim the entrance fees from users. Consequently, the host is strongly incentivized to settle the raffle. 4.5.1 . Advantages On the other hand, there exist two limitations. Firstly, since the randomness is generated from a single private key, the owner of that key (typically the host) can produce beacons at their discretion, granting them the ability to manipulate the raffle result in their favor. In the hands of a malicious host or a host 4.5.2 . Limitations compromised by hackers, this private key can be used to exploit this vulnerability, resulting in the drawing of numerous grand prizes and undermining the distribution of prizes. Secondly, if the host refuses to settle the raffle, the users’ entrance fee remains locked within the contract. Nevertheless, this limitation can be mitigated by leveraging the transparent nature of blockchain. We can ensure that the host acts fairly by monitoring the number of unsettled raffle tickets and even giving penalties accordingly. For instance, if the host deliberately avoids settling a particular raffle ticket, it may indicate dishonest behavior, and users can claim their winning once a predetermined time period has passed. This paper is under CC 1.0 license. available on arxiv

Designing Fair and Efficient Blockchain Games: System Development

This paper is available on arxiv under CC 4.0 license. Authors: (1)Eason Chen, Carnegie Mellon University; (2) Justa Liang, Bucket Protocol; (3) Ray Huang, Bucket Protocol; (4) Pierce Hung, Bucket Protocol; (5) Damien Chen, Bucket Protocol; (6) Ashley Hsu, Bucket Protocol; (7) Konstantinos Chalkias, Mysten Labs; (8) Stefanos Pleros Mysten Labs. TABLE OF LINKS Abstract and Introduction Background Randomness Practice in Blockchain System Development Transaction Fee Comparison Discussion Conclusion and References 3. RANDOMNESS PRACTICE IN BLOCKCHAIN In general, the implementation of verifiable random functions (VRF) on blockchain can be broken down into the following two steps: (1) : Define validation criteria and operational logic through a smart contract for an unknown and unpredictable random number. Initiate (2) and Execute: Once the random value is known, validate it against the specified criteria. If it meets the conditions, execute subsequent logic using this random number. Verify The following sub-sections explain various practical methods of implementing randomness. 3.1 Block-Hash Randomness In the early days of the Proof-of-Work (PoW) blockchain, the block hash was one method for getting random values. At PoW, miners competed in computational works to be the first to create new valid Building Random, Fair, and Verifiable Games on Blockchain. Raffle smart contract designs on Sui Network blocks with hash matching certain criteria [16]. Since the block hash is randomly generated, it can achieve randomness by specifying a hash of a future block in the smart contract logic as the seed of randomness [2]. However, there are three to using the block’s hash as a random value. Firstly, miners may intentionally calculate hashes that meet randomness conditions if the reward for generating a hash that meets certain conditions exceeds the block generation reward [2]. Secondly, the concentration of mining power in a few groups in today’s PoW blockchain makes it susceptible to manipulation. Lastly, this method only applies to PoW blockchains, and as blockchain technology shifts towards more efficient methods of block production like Proof of Stake [10], in which a group of miners who are stakeholders takes turns producing blocks, block hash randomness is no longer applicable, as there is greater freedom for miners to manipulate block hashes when producing blocks. limitations 3.2 Oracle-based Randomness Committee-based Oracles are another common randomization[4]. Provided by third-party services, Oracles offer verifiable randomness for smart contracts, guaranteeing fairness in applications such as gaming and lotteries. When using Oracle-based random beacons, users first initiate a transaction and send it to the Oracle provider(s). Then, that provider sends a second transaction to input a committee-derived random value into the contract. However, an Oracle-based random beacon has two . Firstly, its usage requires costly fees (i.e. 3 USD per request on Ethereum). Moreover, Oracle lacks the decentralization levels of a Layer 1 blockchain, typically due to smaller committees and with different incentives or byzantine fault tolerance guarantees. If the Oracle provider experiences downtime or is compromised by hackers, it may result in service interruptions and potentially impact the integrity of the service. There is also another potential issue related to long range attacks and the fact that the Oracles can perform blind, untraceable attacks (i.e. produce a future beacon before anyone else knows, and hence win a lottery without leaving footprints) [5]. It is necessary to have a more cost-effective and decentralized approach to ensure the availability of randomness on a blockchain DApp. limitations 3.3 DRAND Some modern blockchains support functionality to verify random beacons from the League of Entropy’s DRAND, a distributed randomness beacon daemon [19]. The League of Entropy is a collaborative project that provides a verifiable, decentralized source of randomness accessible to anyone who needs public randomness. League members maintained the DRAND network by hosting nodes running the DRAND protocol. Note that although the DRAND network is also considered an Oracle service, we distinguish between paid Oracles, and a community transparent service like DRAND, cause use of it does not impose any paid services to the Oracle provider. Additionally, DRAND follows a standard cadence in producing publicly verifiable beacons, and it’s not per request, hence reused by everyone for free. The current DRAND mainnet network generates a random value every 30 seconds, called a "round"[1] . The generation process of a DRAND random value follows a specific set of steps [20]: (1) : To establish the network, each node is equipped with an identical private key by Distributed Private Key Generation [9] and agreed with a threshold. The threshold, typically set at 50% of the total node count, represents the minimum number of node signatures needed to reconstruct a complete signature. DRAND Network Setup (2) : For each new round, a node generates a partial signature by the current round number and the signature from the previous round. Then, broadcast it to the DRAND Network. Partial Beacon Creation and Broadcast (3) : For each incoming partial signature, a DRAND node first verifies it and then stores it in a temporary cache if it is valid. Once a minimum threshold of valid partial signature is reached, the node combines them according to the BLS12-381 protocol [8]. This combination involves mapping these partial signatures to points on an elliptic curve, producing the final signature. By design, BLS signatures are deterministic; hence the threshold-combined BLS signature bytes can be considered a VRF output. Final Signature Creation (4) : The node validates the new signature by public key and previous signatures, then saves the signature with the round number to the database. Validation and Storage The random value of a DRAND round can be obtained by hashing the signature of that round with SHA-256. When utilizing DRAND for generating randomness within a smart contract, it typically involves the following steps: (1) : When deployed, hardcode the threshold-combined public key of the DRAND network into the contract as a constant. Set Up (2) : Calculate the current DRAND round number and designate a future round with a number greater than the current one as the target random value. Then, write the logic in the smart contract that should be executed based on this random value. Initiate (3) : Wait until the future round is announced at DRAND, then input DRAND’s signature to the contract. The contract will first verify the legitimacy of the DRAND signature through the round number, public key, and the signature of the previous round. Following successful verification, it proceeds to hash the signature to derive the random beacon, subsequently executing the predefined logic with it. Verify and Execute The of DRAND are that it is free, well recognized, decentralized, and has been widely adopted by many projects [19]. Additionally, thanks to the open nature of the DRAND Protocol, anyone can retrieve signatures from a DRAND Node and use them to invoke smart contracts for verification and execution once the designated DRAND round time passed. advantages However, there is a fatal when using DRAND randomness: users need to wait at least 30 seconds to obtain results. Such a lengthy wait may influence the user experience in games. limitation 3.4 Single-key VRF beacons To enhance the immediacy of random outcomes, a more centralized but timely, unpredictable, and verifiable random technique has emerged, using a single entity VRF variation of the known commit-reveal schemes [3], which involves the following procedure: (1) : Write the host’s public key as a constant into the smart contract. Set up (2) : The user inputs a seed into the smart contract. Then, the smart contract saves it with a unique and uncontrollable variable, such as a timestamp or block hash (this is to avoid replay attacks). Initiate (3) Sign the seed: The host uses a private key to sign the seed and the unique variable at the backend and obtains the VRF output (i.e., BLS signature). (4) : The host calls the smart contract with the VRF output as a parameter. The smart contract verifies the validity of the signature using the host’s public key, seed, and unique variable. Then, after successful verification, the smart contract hashes the signature to obtain a random value and execute the random logic. Verify and Execute The of single-key VRF is its remarkable immediacy. After users initiate a transaction, the host can promptly sign and invoke the contract to complete the randomness. In products currently employing single-key VRF, users can receive the random result within five seconds after sending the initiated transaction, demonstrating low latency advantage However, this method has two notable . First, if a hacker compromised the VRF’s private key, it could jeopardize the randomness, potentially leading to the complete depletion of the contract’s assets. Moreover, only the host can Verify and Execute, as no one else can use the private key to create the signature / beacon. As a result, if the host encounters downtime, users may be unable to finish the execution and withdraw their assets from the contract. To circumvent the latter, solutions using time-locks have been proposed, by introducing penalties to VRF hosts who delay publishing their VRF outputs [5, 21]. limitations [1] As of Aug 3rd 2023, DRAND is also running a second mainnet with a 3-second random beacon cadence, and official developer docs are expected [22]. This paper is under CC 1.0 license. available on arxiv

Designing Fair and Efficient Blockchain Games: Randomness Practice in Blockchain

Mark Twain's Speeches by Mark Twain, is part of the HackerNoon Books Series. You can jump to any chapter in this book . INDEPENDENCE DAY here INDEPENDENCE DAY The American Society in London gave a banquet, July 4, 1907, at
          the Hotel Cecil.  Ambassador Choate called on Mr. Clemens to
          respond to the toast “The Day We Celebrate.” MR. CHAIRMAN, MY LORD, AND GENTLEMEN,—Once more it happens, as it has happened so often since I arrived in England a week or two ago, that instead of celebrating the Fourth of July properly as has been indicated, I have to first take care of my personal character. Sir Mortimer Durand still remains unconvinced. Well, I tried to convince these people from the beginning that I did not take the Ascot Cup; and as I have failed to convince anybody that I did not take the cup, I might as well confess I did take it and be done with it. I don’t see why this uncharitable feeling should follow me everywhere, and why I should have that crime thrown up to me on all occasions. The tears that I have wept over it ought to have created a different feeling than this—and, besides, I don’t think it is very right or fair that, considering England has been trying to take a cup of ours for forty years—I don’t see why they should take so much trouble when I tried to go into the business myself. Sir Mortimer Durand, too, has had trouble from going to a dinner here, and he has told you what he suffered in consequence. But what did he suffer? He only missed his train, and one night of discomfort, and he remembers it to this day. Oh! if you could only think what I have suffered from a similar circumstance. Two or three years ago, in New York, with that Society there which is made up of people from all British Colonies, and from Great Britain generally, who were educated in British colleges and British schools, I was there to respond to a toast of some kind or other, and I did then what I have been in the habit of doing, from a selfish motive, for a long time, and that is, I got myself placed No, 3 in the list of speakers—then you get home early. I had to go five miles up-river, and had to catch a particular train or not get there. But see the magnanimity which is born in me, which I have cultivated all my life. A very famous and very great British clergyman came to me presently, and he said: “I am away down in the list; I have got to catch a certain train this Saturday night; if I don’t catch that train I shall be carried beyond midnight and break the Sabbath. Won’t you change places with me?” I said: “Certainly I will.” I did it at once. Now, see what happened. Talk about Sir Mortimer Durand’s sufferings for a single night! I have suffered ever since because I saved that gentleman from breaking the Sabbath-yes, saved him. I took his place, but I lost my train, and it was I who broke the Sabbath. Up to that time I never had broken the Sabbath in my life, and from that day to this I never have kept it. Oh! I am learning much here to-night. I find I didn’t know anything about the American Society—that is, I didn’t know its chief virtue. I didn’t know its chief virtue until his Excellency our Ambassador revealed it—I may say, exposed it. I was intending to go home on the 13th of this month, but I look upon that in a different light now. I am going to stay here until the American Society pays my passage. Our Ambassador has spoken of our Fourth of July and the noise it makes. We have got a double Fourth of July—a daylight Fourth and a midnight Fourth. During the day in America, as our Ambassador has indicated, we keep the Fourth of July properly in a reverent spirit. We devote it to teaching our children patriotic things—reverence for the Declaration of Independence. We honor the day all through the daylight hours, and when night comes we dishonor it. Presently—before long—they are getting nearly ready to begin now—on the Atlantic coast, when night shuts down, that pandemonium will begin, and there will be noise, and noise, and noise—all night long—and there will be more than noise there will be people crippled, there will be people killed, there will be people who will lose their eyes, and all through that permission which we give to irresponsible boys to play with firearms and fire-crackers, and all sorts of dangerous things: We turn that Fourth of July, alas! over to rowdies to drink and get drunk and make the night hideous, and we cripple and kill more people than you would imagine. We probably began to celebrate our Fourth-of-July night in that way one hundred and twenty-five years ago, and on every Fourth-of-July night since these horrors have grown and grown, until now, in our five thousand towns of America, somebody gets killed or crippled on every Fourth-of-July night, besides those cases of sick persons whom we never hear of, who die as the result of the noise or the shock. They cripple and kill more people on the Fourth of July in America than they kill and cripple in our wars nowadays, and there are no pensions for these folk. And, too, we burn houses. Really we destroy more property on every Fourth-of-July night than the whole of the United States was worth one hundred and twenty-five years ago. Really our Fourth of July is our day of mourning, our day of sorrow. Fifty thousand people who have lost friends, or who have had friends crippled, receive that Fourth of July, when it comes, as a day of mourning for the losses they have sustained in their families. I have suffered in that way myself. I have had relatives killed in that way. One was in Chicago years ago—an uncle of mine, just as good an uncle as I have ever had, and I had lots of them—yes, uncles to burn, uncles to spare. This poor uncle, full of patriotism, opened his mouth to hurrah, and a rocket went down his throat. Before that man could ask for a drink of water to quench that thing, it blew up and scattered him all over the forty-five States, and—really, now, this is true—I know about it myself—twenty-four hours after that it was raining buttons, recognizable as his, on the Atlantic seaboard. A person cannot have a disaster like that and be entirely cheerful the rest of his life. I had another uncle, on an entirely different Fourth of July, who was blown up that way, and really it trimmed him as it would a tree. He had hardly a limb left on him anywhere. All we have left now is an expurgated edition of that uncle. But never mind about these things; they are merely passing matters. Don’t let me make you sad. Sir Mortimer Durand said that you, the English people, gave up your colonies over there—got tired of them—and did it with reluctance. Now I wish you just to consider that he was right about that, and that he had his reasons for saying that England did not look upon our Revolution as a foreign war, but as a civil war fought by Englishmen. Our Fourth of July which we honor so much, and which we love so much, and which we take so much pride in, is an English institution, not an American one, and it comes of a great ancestry. The first Fourth of July in that noble genealogy dates back seven centuries lacking eight years. That is the day of the Great Charter—the Magna Charta—which was born at Runnymede in the next to the last year of King John, and portions of the liberties secured thus by those hardy Barons from that reluctant King John are a part of our Declaration of Independence, of our Fourth of July, of our American liberties. And the second of those Fourths of July was not born until four centuries later, in, Charles the First’s time, in the Bill of Rights, and that is ours, that is part of our liberties. The next one was still English, in New England, where they established that principle which remains with us to this day, and will continue to remain with us—no taxation without representation. That is always going to stand, and that the English Colonies in New England gave us. The Fourth of July, and the one which you are celebrating now, born, in Philadelphia on the 4th of July, 1776—that is English, too. It is not American. Those were English colonists, subjects of King George III., Englishmen at heart, who protested against the oppressions of the Home Government. Though they proposed to cure those oppressions and remove them, still remaining under the Crown, they were not intending a revolution. The revolution was brought about by circumstances which they could not control. The Declaration of Independence was written by a British subject, every name signed to it was the name of a British subject. There was not the name of a single American attached to the Declaration of Independence—in fact, there was not an American in the country in that day except the Indians out on the plains. They were Englishmen, all Englishmen—Americans did not begin until seven years later, when that Fourth of July had become seven years old, and then, the American Republic was established. Since then, there have been Americans. So you see what we owe to England in the matter of liberties. We have, however, one Fourth of July which is absolutely our own, and that is that great proclamation issued forty years ago by that great American to whom Sir Mortimer Durand paid that just and beautiful tribute—Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln’s proclamation, which not only set the black slaves free, but set the white man free also. The owner was set free from the burden and offence, that sad condition of things where he was in so many instances a master and owner of slaves when he did not want to be. That proclamation set them all free. But even in this matter England suggested it, for England had set her slaves free thirty years before, and we followed her example. We always followed her example, whether it was good or bad. And it was an English judge that issued that other great proclamation, and established that great principle that, when a slave, let him belong to whom he may, and let him come whence he may, sets his foot upon English soil, his fetters by that act fall away and he is a free man before the world. We followed the example of 1833, and we freed our slaves as I have said. It is true, then, that all our Fourths of July, and we have five of them, England gave to us, except that one that I have mentioned—the Emancipation Proclamation, and, lest we forget, let us all remember that we owe these things to England. Let us be able to say to Old England, this great-hearted, venerable old mother of the race, you gave us our Fourths of July that we love and that we honor and revere, you gave us the Declaration of Independence, which is the Charter of our rights, you, the venerable Mother of Liberties, the Protector of Anglo-Saxon Freedom—you gave us these things, and we do most honestly thank you for them. About HackerNoon Book Series: We bring you the most important technical, scientific, and insightful public domain books. This book is part of the public domain. Mark Twain (2004). Mark Twain's Speeches. Urbana, Illinois: Project Gutenberg. Retrieved October 2022 https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/3188/pg3188-images.html This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at , located at . www.gutenberg.org https://www.gutenberg.org/policy/license.html

INDEPENDENCE DAY

THE CLOTHO SPIDER

(Should not be a question.) You may be wondering if branding is right for you and your company. If you’re at all skeptical, ask yourself these questions: Do people immediately understand your core value proposition? Are you getting the responses you want — from investors, consumers? Are you making decisions about how you look, sound and behave using a set criteria? Is your team wholly aligned on what you say, write and design? Is making content a breeze? If you answered to any of the above questions, Branding is right for your company. Read on to learn how Branding — and not Branding — will impact your company. NO WITH BRANDING You will have the clarity to express who you are to any audience, regardless of platform. Everyone who represents your company or creates your content will know your Brand Story. Your marketers, salespeople, writers, designers and developers will all have clarity around what you do, how you do it and most importantly why you do it. They will understand your core personality traits and how those traits translate to how you behave, how you look, and how you sound. The result — all the content your create will hang together as a strong and unified brand story across content, audience and platform. WITHOUT BRANDING Without brand guidance, making the right choices about how and what to communicate is fraught with complications. You may know who you are (and we believe most companies do) but without an actionable framework to guide your efforts, there will be time and money wasted launching inefficient, fragmented content that doesn’t communicate well together. Ready to get started with Branding? Let us help. In as little as two weeks, we can build a custom Brand Guide for your company and get you moving forward on the right path. Learn more here.

TO BRAND OR NOT TO BRAND

If you've been following the VR industry, you know it's been around for decades. Companies have been trying to make virtual reality a mainstream success for ages. While Apple coined the buzz-worthy term “spatial computing” with their Vision Pro headset, they're certainly not the first to try. From the failed Virtual Boy in the 90s to the moderately successful Oculus and HTC Vive VR headsets, tech giants have struggled to find that elusive killer app. But if you just scroll through TikTok or Instagram, you'll see what's really on people's minds these days. And it definitely isn't about bigger screens to watch Netflix or play games. No, what's driving the conversation is beauty, looks, fashion, and how to glow up. So, as transformative as spatial computing could become, the multi-trillion-dollar global beauty and fashion space will lead AR. Our universal desire to look and feel good provides the real-life use case everyone’s looking for. The promises and challenges of AR beauty The core premise of AR beauty is simple but compelling: Using advanced computer vision and rendering to virtually overlay any makeup look, hairstyle, outfit, or accessory onto your face and body with hyper-realistic precision. Consumers can experiment endlessly, sampling different looks and products with no mess, effort, or commitment. If you've ever ordered a piece of clothing online only for it to look completely different (or just not fit right) when it arrives, you know how frustrating that can be—or bought an expensive watch or pair of kicks, only to regret the purchase when it doesn’t look quite how you expected. What if you could virtually try on anything before committing your money? That's the big idea of AR beauty and fashion—getting rid of the guesswork and potential disappointment by allowing you to realistically experiment with any look or product before pulling the trigger. But, some rudimentary AR makeup apps illustrate the significant technological challenges involved. Poor facial tracking, clunky interfaces, and unconvincing visual realism hamper the experience. Faithfully simulating the intricacies of how cosmetics interact with diverse facial geometries, skin tones, and movements at a high fidelity is an enormously complex computational problem. Implementing AI and AR technologies The latest breakthroughs in AI and AR technologies have proven useful in cracking these challenges. For example, Perfect Corp's AI Makeup Virtual Try-On uses machine learning to realistically render different makeup colors and textures like lipstick, eyeshadow, and more, with the simulations customized to each individual's unique facial features and microexpressions for an ultra-personalized virtual experience. If you're not all that into fashion and beauty, this may not seem like a big deal. But for those obsessed with looking their best, the ability to visualize any look or product before buying could be hugely transformative. Their AI Skin Analysis tech goes further, using artificial intelligence to scan faces and detect 14 different skin conditions and concerns, then surfacing customized product and skincare recommendations tailored to the user. And the AgileHand technology allows realistic virtual try-ons to extend beyond just faces by precisely tracking hand motions. This enables photorealistic AR visualizations for intricate products like jewelry, watches, and nail polish. Some other AR beauty solutions include Makeup AR for virtual makeup try-ons, AI Foundation Shade Finder and Matcher for accurate skin tone detection and foundation shade matching, AI Skin Analysis for accurate skin concern detection and personalized product recommendations of products, and Emulation Technology for Skincare Treatment for accurate representations of the expected results of a course of treatment, overlaid directly onto their faces with the latest advancements in AR technology. The AI tech for AR beauty The recent renaissance of AI breakthroughs, especially around areas like generative adversarial networks (GANs), facial semantic segmentation, and neural rendering, is what's enabling the kind of hyper-realistic and personalized AR experiences that were merely SciFi just years ago. Using GANs, AI models can now learn to generate highly realistic representations of human faces, facial attributes, and facial animations from just a handful of source images. This opens up possibilities for instantly generating virtual makeup looks and hairstyles that are custom-tailored to each user's individual facial geometry and characteristics. Facial semantic segmentation allows AI to precisely understand and map out different facial features like skin, facial hair, eyelashes and more - enabling AR effects to seamlessly integrate and move in harmony with the user's face. Neural rendering techniques leveraging AI can also realistically synthesize the complex ways light interacts with different materials and textures in real time, far beyond what's possible with traditional rendering pipelines. Looking ahead, AI is set to transform AR beauty experiences into something much more akin to having a personal beauty guru. Using deep learning, an AI assistant could continuously analyze your unique attributes, habits, and preferences, automatically surfacing ideal products, trendy looks, and personalized recommendations for you to try virtually in AR with just a voice command or subtle gesture. The possibilities extend far beyond just virtual try-ons. AI could help formulate bespoke beauty products optimized for your individual needs and environmental conditions. Or DTC brands could let customers co-create new cosmetic products and shades with the assistance of AI. The takeaway: Beauty and fashion are the AR killer app While the metaverse is still largely vapourware, the humble makeup tutorial may push spatial computing into the mainstream sooner than we think. With an insatiable consumer appetite for looking our best and plenty of money to be made, the global beauty and fashion industry has both the motivation and resources to drive AR innovation and adoption harder than any other sector. If executed well and key technical barriers around rendering, tracking, and hardware are overcome, AR holds the transformative potential to reshape how we discover, purchase, use, and even perceive beauty products. Immersive virtual try-on experiences, AI-driven personalization, and participatory product development could not only reinvent the beauty consumer experience but also make individual self-expression more accessible than ever before. So, as the tech world covers each new OS update and app ecosystem announcement, keep your eye on the influencers and beauty fanatics pioneering the spatial computing frontier with a fresh face of makeup in every video. They may low-key catalyze the next ubiquitous computing paradigm while just trying to look fly. If you've been following the VR industry, you know it's been around for decades. Companies have been trying to make virtual reality a mainstream success for ages. While Apple coined the buzz-worthy term “ spatial computing ” with their Vision Pro headset, they're certainly not the first to try. spatial computing spatial computing From the failed Virtual Boy in the 90s to the moderately successful Oculus and HTC Vive VR headsets, tech giants have struggled to find that elusive killer app. But if you just scroll through TikTok or Instagram, you'll see what's really on people's minds these days. And it definitely isn't about bigger screens to watch Netflix or play games. No, what's driving the conversation is beauty, looks, fashion, and how to glow up. So, as transformative as spatial computing could become, the multi-trillion-dollar global beauty and fashion space will lead AR. Our universal desire to look and feel good provides the real-life use case everyone’s looking for. The promises and challenges of AR beauty The core premise of AR beauty is simple but compelling: Using advanced computer vision and rendering to virtually overlay any makeup look, hairstyle, outfit, or accessory onto your face and body with hyper-realistic precision. Consumers can experiment endlessly, sampling different looks and products with no mess, effort, or commitment. If you've ever ordered a piece of clothing online only for it to look completely different (or just not fit right) when it arrives, you know how frustrating that can be—or bought an expensive watch or pair of kicks, only to regret the purchase when it doesn’t look quite how you expected. frustrating frustrating What if you could virtually try on anything before committing your money? That's the big idea of AR beauty and fashion—getting rid of the guesswork and potential disappointment by allowing you to realistically experiment with any look or product before pulling the trigger. But, some rudimentary AR makeup apps illustrate the significant technological challenges involved. Poor facial tracking, clunky interfaces, and unconvincing visual realism hamper the experience. Faithfully simulating the intricacies of how cosmetics interact with diverse facial geometries, skin tones, and movements at a high fidelity is an enormously complex computational problem. Implementing AI and AR technologies The latest breakthroughs in AI and AR technologies have proven useful in cracking these challenges. For example, Perfect Corp's AI Makeup Virtual Try-On uses machine learning to realistically render different makeup colors and textures like lipstick, eyeshadow, and more, with the simulations customized to each individual's unique facial features and microexpressions for an ultra-personalized virtual experience. AI Makeup Virtual Try-On If you're not all that into fashion and beauty, this may not seem like a big deal. But for those obsessed with looking their best, the ability to visualize any look or product before buying could be hugely transformative. Their AI Skin Analysis tech goes further, using artificial intelligence to scan faces and detect 14 different skin conditions and concerns, then surfacing customized product and skincare recommendations tailored to the user. AI Skin Analysis And the AgileHand technology allows realistic virtual try-ons to extend beyond just faces by precisely tracking hand motions. This enables photorealistic AR visualizations for intricate products like jewelry, watches, and nail polish. Some other AR beauty solutions include Makeup AR for virtual makeup try-ons, AI Foundation Shade Finder and Matcher for accurate skin tone detection and foundation shade matching, AI Skin Analysis for accurate skin concern detection and personalized product recommendations of products, and Emulation Technology for Skincare Treatment for accurate representations of the expected results of a course of treatment, overlaid directly onto their faces with the latest advancements in AR technology. The AI tech for AR beauty The recent renaissance of AI breakthroughs, especially around areas like generative adversarial networks (GANs), facial semantic segmentation, and neural rendering, is what's enabling the kind of hyper-realistic and personalized AR experiences that were merely SciFi just years ago. Using GANs, AI models can now learn to generate highly realistic representations of human faces, facial attributes, and facial animations from just a handful of source images. This opens up possibilities for instantly generating virtual makeup looks and hairstyles that are custom-tailored to each user's individual facial geometry and characteristics. Facial semantic segmentation allows AI to precisely understand and map out different facial features like skin, facial hair, eyelashes and more - enabling AR effects to seamlessly integrate and move in harmony with the user's face. Neural rendering techniques leveraging AI can also realistically synthesize the complex ways light interacts with different materials and textures in real time, far beyond what's possible with traditional rendering pipelines. Looking ahead, AI is set to transform AR beauty experiences into something much more akin to having a personal beauty guru. Using deep learning, an AI assistant could continuously analyze your unique attributes, habits, and preferences, automatically surfacing ideal products, trendy looks, and personalized recommendations for you to try virtually in AR with just a voice command or subtle gesture. The possibilities extend far beyond just virtual try-ons. AI could help formulate bespoke beauty products optimized for your individual needs and environmental conditions. Or DTC brands could let customers co-create new cosmetic products and shades with the assistance of AI. The takeaway: Beauty and fashion are the AR killer app While the metaverse is still largely vapourware, the humble makeup tutorial may push spatial computing into the mainstream sooner than we think. With an insatiable consumer appetite for looking our best and plenty of money to be made, the global beauty and fashion industry has both the motivation and resources to drive AR innovation and adoption harder than any other sector. If executed well and key technical barriers around rendering, tracking, and hardware are overcome, AR holds the transformative potential to reshape how we discover, purchase, use, and even perceive beauty products. Immersive virtual try-on experiences, AI-driven personalization, and participatory product development could not only reinvent the beauty consumer experience but also make individual self-expression more accessible than ever before. So, as the tech world covers each new OS update and app ecosystem announcement, keep your eye on the influencers and beauty fanatics pioneering the spatial computing frontier with a fresh face of makeup in every video. They may low-key catalyze the next ubiquitous computing paradigm while just trying to look fly.

Why the Beauty and Fashion Industry is the Future of AR and Spatial Computing

The New Hollywood leader and one of the world’s most powerful brands just joined forces in a deal that elevates live sports on connected TV (CTV) and hammers another nail in the coffin of linear TV. Netflix announced that it will stream the NFL’s two Christmas Day games in 2024. This marks the beginning of a three-season agreement, during which the streaming service will also air at least one Christmas Day game in both 2025 and 2026. The games will also air on broadcast TV in the competing team cities, and they be available on U.S. mobile devices with NFL+. The Rise of Live Sports on CTV The live sports industry is the last bastion of linear TV viewing. But the world is changing fast. About half of U.S. audiences no longer pay for cable TV or other traditional pay TV services, according to Insider Intelligence. About four out of 10 viewers mainly consume sports content through ad-supported CTV platforms or social media, according to Trade Desk’s Future of TV Report. Streaming services have been gobbling up live sports content over the past few years, ranging from Amazon’s and Peacock’s deals to stream NFL games to Netflix acquiring rights for the WWE. And competition is heating up. A recently announced venture between ESPN, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery may account for about 55% of U.S. sports rights, according to Citi analysts. All Hail the NFL Netflix, a Johnny-come-lately to live sports, has good reason to cozy up to the NFL. The NFL dominates television and drives culture. Nielsen says the NFL accounted for a 93 of the 100 most-watched TV broadcasts in 2023. The NFL has wisely sensed and responded to the rise of CTV, agreeing to air games with a variety of streaming companies, among them Amazon Prime, Paramount+, Peacock, and YouTube TV. Thursday Night Football games on Amazon Prime and a Black Friday game (the first ever) in 2024 have delivered ratings and advertising gold. The league created controversy by streaming a 2024 wild card playoff game on Peacock exclusively, which shut out viewers who lacked a Peacock subscription. But the decision delivered numbers: 23 million total viewers, according to Nielsen. NBC said that the game set a record for the most-streamed live event in U.S. history. And Super Bowl LVIII on February 11 game attracted an average viewership of 123.4 million, setting a new record for the most-watched television broadcast in history. Out of this audience, 112 million viewers watched the game on CBS. The remaining viewership was distributed among Paramount+, Nickelodeon, Univision, CBS Sports, and various NFL digital platforms, including NFL+. All Eyes on Amazon The NFL is clearly just getting warmed up. The 2024-25 season will include a game in Brazil streaming exclusively on Peacock. The September 6 game will be the first NFL game played in South America and the second game to air exclusively on Peacock. A playoff wild card game will air on Amazon Prime Video. Amazon streaming a playoff game is especially intriguing. The experience will most certainly be different than the one Peacock featured and speaks to CTV’s potential for changing how people experience live sports. For one thing, Amazon will use the game to test Amazon Ad targeting features as it did with the Black Friday game when Amazon rolled out a new strategy called audience-based creative, allowing advertisers to target different audience segments with different ads in the same time slot.Amazon will also inject commerce into the game-watching experience. Amazon already offers deals for Amazon Prime customers associated with Thursday Night Football, and Amazon really ramped up shopping deals during the 2023 Black Friday game (including limited time deals along with plenty of shoppable ads).Amazon also provides several interactive features to enhance the TV viewing experience, such as X-Ray, which gives fans real-time access to live statistics and data. A feature called the 4th Down Decision Guide offers fans the opportunity to step into the role of NFL coaches during critical moments. It poses the question: should a team attempt to advance on fourth down or opt for a punt? Using machine learning, this tool assesses the success rates of both choices and evaluates their impact on the team's chances of winning the game. These kinds of features (and a lot more) are not gimmicks -- they make watching the game more of an experience. Essentially, Amazon and the NFL are reinventing Black Friday as a hybrid shopping and entertainment experience -- enticing people to stay online and watch football on a day when they’re usually out shopping was at one time unthinkable. The game garnered an average of 9.61 million viewers who watched the Miami Dolphins crush the New York Jets on Amazon Prime Video.The ratings were lower than expected. But Amazon’s first NFL outing with Thursday Night Football underwhelmed at first, too, and now things have turned around. And as Columbia University sports management professor Joe Favorito told The Street, "If you would have said to someone nine million people on the Friday after Thanksgiving are going to watch a streamed NFL game three years ago, people [would] have been jumping up and down." Amazon’s relationship with the NFL will also challenge Netflix to deliver something more experiential especially because Amazon is already creating the state of the art in CTV live sports. I expect Netflix will share more details of its own in coming weeks. A Christmas Advertising Bonanza? Christmas Day marks the NFL’s continued expansion into holiday sports viewing. The NFL averaged 28.4 million viewers across its three games on Christmas Day last season (compare that to the NBA, which averaged 2.8 million across its five games). According to the NFL, last year’s three Christmas games ranking among the top 25 most viewed TV programs of 2023. Analyst Guggenheim predicts that these games will bring in approximately $185 million in direct advertising revenue. This figure is in addition to potential increases in subscriber growth, engagement, or promotional benefits. Such a boost would signify a 15.7% increase over the firm’s existing 2024 advertising forecast of $1.18 billion. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: the day is coming when the Super Bowl will move to CTV. Which New Hollywood business will win that prize? NFL photo by Photo by Adrian Curiel on Unsplash. Netflix photo by Alexander Shatov on Unsplash. The New Hollywood leader and one of the world’s most powerful brands just joined forces in a deal that elevates live sports on connected TV (CTV) and hammers another nail in the coffin of linear TV. Netflix announced that it will stream the NFL’s two Christmas Day games in 2024 . This marks the beginning of a three-season agreement, during which the streaming service will also air at least one Christmas Day game in both 2025 and 2026. stream the NFL’s two Christmas Day games in 2024 The games will also air on broadcast TV in the competing team cities, and they be available on U.S. mobile devices with NFL+. The Rise of Live Sports on CTV The Rise of Live Sports on CTV The live sports industry is the last bastion of linear TV viewing. But the world is changing fast. About half of U.S. audiences no longer pay for cable TV or other traditional pay TV services , according to Insider Intelligence. About four out of 10 viewers mainly consume sports content through ad-supported CTV platforms or social media , according to Trade Desk’s Future of TV Report. About half of U.S. audiences no longer pay for cable TV or other traditional pay TV services About half of U.S. audiences no longer pay for cable TV or other traditional pay TV services About four out of 10 viewers mainly consume sports content through ad-supported CTV platforms or social media About four out of 10 viewers mainly consume sports content through ad-supported CTV platforms or social media Streaming services have been gobbling up live sports content over the past few years, ranging from Amazon’s and Peacock’s deals to stream NFL games to Netflix acquiring rights for the WWE. And competition is heating up. A recently announced venture between ESPN, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery may account for about 55% of U.S. sports rights , according to Citi analysts. may account for about 55% of U.S. sports rights may account for about 55% of U.S. sports rights All Hail the NFL All Hail the NFL Netflix, a Johnny-come-lately to live sports, has good reason to cozy up to the NFL. The NFL dominates television and drives culture. Nielsen says the NFL accounted for a 93 of the 100 most-watched TV broadcasts in 2023 . The NFL has wisely sensed and responded to the rise of CTV, agreeing to air games with a variety of streaming companies, among them Amazon Prime, Paramount+, Peacock, and YouTube TV. Thursday Night Football games on Amazon Prime and a Black Friday game (the first ever) in 2024 have delivered ratings and advertising gold. NFL accounted for a 93 of the 100 most-watched TV broadcasts in 2023 NFL accounted for a 93 of the 100 most-watched TV broadcasts in 2023 The league created controversy by streaming a 2024 wild card playoff game on Peacock exclusively, which shut out viewers who lacked a Peacock subscription. But the decision delivered numbers: 23 million total viewers, according to Nielsen. NBC said that the game set a record for the most-streamed live event in U.S. history . NBC said that the game set a record for the most-streamed live event in U.S. history NBC said that the game set a record for the most-streamed live event in U.S. history And Super Bowl LVIII on February 11 game attracted an average viewership of 123.4 million, setting a new record for the most-watched television broadcast in history . Out of this audience, 112 million viewers watched the game on CBS. The remaining viewership was distributed among Paramount+, Nickelodeon, Univision, CBS Sports, and various NFL digital platforms, including NFL+. setting a new record for the most-watched television broadcast in history setting a new record for the most-watched television broadcast in history All Eyes on Amazon The NFL is clearly just getting warmed up. The 2024-25 season will include a game in Brazil streaming exclusively on Peacock. The September 6 game will be the first NFL game played in South America and the second game to air exclusively on Peacock. A playoff wild card game will air on Amazon Prime Video. Amazon streaming a playoff game is especially intriguing. The experience will most certainly be different than the one Peacock featured and speaks to CTV’s potential for changing how people experience live sports. For one thing, Amazon will use the game to test Amazon Ad targeting features as it did with the Black Friday game when Amazon rolled out a new strategy called audience-based creative, allowing advertisers to target different audience segments with different ads in the same time slot. Amazon will also inject commerce into the game-watching experience. Amazon already offers deals for Amazon Prime customers associated with Thursday Night Football, and Amazon really ramped up shopping deals during the 2023 Black Friday game (including limited time deals along with plenty of shoppable ads). Amazon also provides several interactive features to enhance the TV viewing experience, such as X-Ray, which gives fans real-time access to live statistics and data. A feature called the 4th Down Decision Guide offers fans the opportunity to step into the role of NFL coaches during critical moments. It poses the question: should a team attempt to advance on fourth down or opt for a punt? Using machine learning, this tool assesses the success rates of both choices and evaluates their impact on the team's chances of winning the game. These kinds of features (and a lot more) are not gimmicks -- they make watching the game more of an experience. Essentially, Amazon and the NFL are reinventing Black Friday as a hybrid shopping and entertainment experience -- enticing people to stay online and watch football on a day when they’re usually out shopping was at one time unthinkable. The game garnered an average of 9.61 million viewers who watched the Miami Dolphins crush the New York Jets on Amazon Prime Video. The ratings were lower than expected. But Amazon’s first NFL outing with Thursday Night Football underwhelmed at first, too, and now things have turned around. And as Columbia University sports management professor Joe Favorito told The Street, "If you would have said to someone nine million people on the Friday after Thanksgiving are going to watch a streamed NFL game three years ago, people [would] have been jumping up and down." Amazon’s relationship with the NFL will also challenge Netflix to deliver something more experiential especially because Amazon is already creating the state of the art in CTV live sports. I expect Netflix will share more details of its own in coming weeks. A Christmas Advertising Bonanza? A Christmas Advertising Bonanza? Christmas Day marks the NFL’s continued expansion into holiday sports viewing. The NFL averaged 28.4 million viewers across its three games on Christmas Day last season (compare that to the NBA, which averaged 2.8 million across its five games). According to the NFL, last year’s three Christmas games ranking among the top 25 most viewed TV programs of 2023 . The NFL averaged 28.4 million viewers across its three games on Christmas Day last season The NFL averaged 28.4 million viewers across its three games on Christmas Day last season last year’s three Christmas games ranking among the top 25 most viewed TV programs of 2023 last year’s three Christmas games ranking among the top 25 most viewed TV programs of 2023 Analyst Guggenheim predicts that these games will bring in approximately $185 million in direct advertising revenue . This figure is in addition to potential increases in subscriber growth, engagement, or promotional benefits. Such a boost would signify a 15.7% increase over the firm’s existing 2024 advertising forecast of $1.18 billion. $185 million in direct advertising revenue $185 million in direct advertising revenue I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: the day is coming when the Super Bowl will move to CTV. Which New Hollywood business will win that prize? NFL photo by Photo by Adrian Curiel on Unsplash. Netflix photo by Alexander Shatov on Unsplash. NFL photo by Photo by Adrian Curiel on Unsplash. Netflix photo by Alexander Shatov on Unsplash.

Goodbye, Linear TV: Netflix to Stream NFL Christmas Games in 2024

বিদায়, লিনিয়ার টিভি: 2024 সালে এনএফএল ক্রিসমাস গেমস স্ট্রিম করবে Netflix

Auf Wiedersehen, lineares Fernsehen: Netflix überträgt NFL-Weihnachtsspiele im Jahr 2024

Adiós, Linear TV: Netflix transmitirá los juegos navideños de la NFL en 2024

Au revoir, télévision linéaire : Netflix diffusera les matchs de Noël de la NFL en 2024

अलविदा, लीनियर टीवी: नेटफ्लिक्स 2024 में एनएफएल क्रिसमस गेम्स स्ट्रीम करेगा

さようなら、リニアテレビ：Netflix が 2024 年に NFL クリスマス ゲームをストリーミング配信

안녕, Linear TV: Netflix, 2024년에 NFL 크리스마스 게임 스트리밍 예정

Adeus, Linear TV: Netflix transmitirá jogos de Natal da NFL em 2024

Прощай, линейное телевидение: Netflix будет транслировать рождественские игры НФЛ в 2024 году

Elveda Linear TV: Netflix, 2024'te NFL Noel Oyunlarını Yayınlayacak

Tạm biệt, Truyền hình tuyến tính: Netflix sẽ phát trực tuyến các trò chơi Giáng sinh của NFL vào năm 2024

再见，线性电视：Netflix 将于 2024 年播放 NFL 圣诞比赛

At the heart of Wojak Finance is the WOJAK token, a digital currency that serves as the spine of the platform's environment. But it's not just trading and speculation—WOJAK is a utility token with real-international programs, powering the whole lot from marketing campaigns to community engagement initiatives. However, possibly the greatest groundbreaking aspect of Wojak Finance is its decentralized community-based marketing platform, which operates primarily on Twitter. Unlike conventional advertising models, which depend on centralized intermediaries to connect manufacturers with audiences, Wojak Finance puts the power back within the palms of the people. Through the platform, manufacturers can interact with Wojakians—the passionate community of users and supporters who have rallied behind the project. By leveraging the collective impact of Wojakians, brands can amplify their message, force engagement, and attain new audiences in ways that had been previously thought not possible. But Wojak Finance isn't just marketing—it's about empowering groups and creating possibilities for people to participate in the digital economic system. With the recent release of their GenX NFT collection, Wojak Finance is taking community engagement to new heights. The GenX series includes 100,000 precise NFTs, each representing a different person inside the Wojak universe. But these NFTs are more than just virtual collectibles—they are a gateway to a new form of digital ownership and expression. With GenX, users can show off their NFT characters on Twitter and earn $BWJ tokens in the process. It's a singular idea that blurs the lines between digital art, social media, and finance, and it's already capturing the creativeness of crypto fanatics worldwide. However, the most interesting aspect of Wojak Finance's GenX series is its ability to reshape the advertising and marketing enterprise as we know it. By harnessing the power of NFTs and social media, Wojak Finance is pioneering a brand new version of decentralized advertising and marketing that puts the interests of communities and individuals first. With the imminent release of its AI model and software, Wojak Finance is poised to take its platform to a new level. By leveraging synthetic intelligence to create tailor-made tweets primarily based on user profiles, Wojak Finance is changing the manner in which brands interact with audiences on social media. But none of this would have been possible without the aid of the Wojakians—the passionate community of customers and supporters who have embraced the undertaking from day one. With their lively participation and unwavering dedication, Wojakians are driving the success of Wojak Finance and shaping the future of decentralized marketing. Joining Wojak Finance isn't just about investing in a cryptocurrency—it's about joining a movement, a community-driven revolution that's rewriting the playbook for how we think about cryptocurrency, advertising, and marketing. By becoming a part of Wojak Finance, you're not just a passive observer; you're an active participant in shaping the future of decentralized finance and empowering individuals to take control of their financial destinies. So why wait? Join Wojak Finance today and be a part of something bigger than yourself—a community that's redefining the rules of the game and paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. Follow Wojack Finance to join them on their journey, and visit their website today: Wojak Finance's official website
Wojakians NFT collection on Rarible
Twitter page
Telegram group
CoinMarketCap profile If interested, visit https://genx.woj.finance/ for more details. This story was distributed by Jon Stojan Media under HackerNoon’s Brand As An Author Program. Learn more about the program here: https://business.hackernoon.com/brand-as-author At the heart of Wojak Finance is the WOJAK token, a digital currency that serves as the spine of the platform's environment. But it's not just trading and speculation—WOJAK is a utility token with real-international programs, powering the whole lot from marketing campaigns to community engagement initiatives. However, possibly the greatest groundbreaking aspect of Wojak Finance is its decentralized community-based marketing platform, which operates primarily on Twitter. Unlike conventional advertising models, which depend on centralized intermediaries to connect manufacturers with audiences, Wojak Finance puts the power back within the palms of the people. Through the platform, manufacturers can interact with Wojakians—the passionate community of users and supporters who have rallied behind the project. By leveraging the collective impact of Wojakians, brands can amplify their message, force engagement, and attain new audiences in ways that had been previously thought not possible. But Wojak Finance isn't just marketing—it's about empowering groups and creating possibilities for people to participate in the digital economic system. With the recent release of their GenX NFT collection, Wojak Finance is taking community engagement to new heights. The GenX series includes 100,000 precise NFTs, each representing a different person inside the Wojak universe. But these NFTs are more than just virtual collectibles—they are a gateway to a new form of digital ownership and expression. GenX GenX With GenX, users can show off their NFT characters on Twitter and earn $BWJ tokens in the process. It's a singular idea that blurs the lines between digital art, social media, and finance, and it's already capturing the creativeness of crypto fanatics worldwide. However, the most interesting aspect of Wojak Finance's GenX series is its ability to reshape the advertising and marketing enterprise as we know it. By harnessing the power of NFTs and social media, Wojak Finance is pioneering a brand new version of decentralized advertising and marketing that puts the interests of communities and individuals first. With the imminent release of its AI model and software, Wojak Finance is poised to take its platform to a new level. By leveraging synthetic intelligence to create tailor-made tweets primarily based on user profiles, Wojak Finance is changing the manner in which brands interact with audiences on social media. But none of this would have been possible without the aid of the Wojakians—the passionate community of customers and supporters who have embraced the undertaking from day one. With their lively participation and unwavering dedication, Wojakians are driving the success of Wojak Finance and shaping the future of decentralized marketing. Joining Wojak Finance isn't just about investing in a cryptocurrency—it's about joining a movement, a community-driven revolution that's rewriting the playbook for how we think about cryptocurrency, advertising, and marketing. By becoming a part of Wojak Finance, you're not just a passive observer; you're an active participant in shaping the future of decentralized finance and empowering individuals to take control of their financial destinies. So why wait? Join Wojak Finance today and be a part of something bigger than yourself—a community that's redefining the rules of the game and paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. Follow Wojack Finance to join them on their journey, and visit their website today: Wojak Finance's official website Wojakians NFT collection on Rarible Twitter page Telegram group CoinMarketCap profile Wojak Finance's official website Wojak Finance's official website Wojakians NFT collection on Rarible Wojakians NFT collection on Rarible Twitter page Twitter page Telegram group Telegram group CoinMarketCap profile CoinMarketCap profile If interested, visit https://genx.woj.finance/ for more details. https://genx.woj.finance/ https://genx.woj.finance/ This story was distributed by Jon Stojan Media under HackerNoon’s Brand As An Author Program. Learn more about the program here: https://business.hackernoon.com/brand-as-author This story was distributed by Jon Stojan Media under HackerNoon’s Brand As An Author Program. Learn more about the program here: https://business.hackernoon.com/brand-as-author This story was distributed by Jon Stojan Media under HackerNoon’s Brand As An Author Program. Learn more about the program here: https://business.hackernoon.com/brand-as-author https://business.hackernoon.com/brand-as-author

Wojak Finance: Pioneering Decentralized Advertising with the WOJAK Token

Wojak Finance: WOJAK টোকেনের সাথে বিকেন্দ্রীকৃত বিজ্ঞাপনের অগ্রগামী

Wojak Finance: Pionierarbeit für dezentrale Werbung mit dem WOJAK-Token

Wojak Finance: publicidad descentralizada pionera con el token WOJAK

Wojak Finance : pionnier de la publicité décentralisée avec le jeton WOJAK

वोजैक फाइनेंस: वोजैक टोकन के साथ विकेंद्रीकृत विज्ञापन में अग्रणी

Wojak Finance: WOJAK トークンによる分散型広告の先駆者

Wojak Finance: WOJAK 토큰을 통한 분산형 광고 개척

Wojak Finance: Pioneirismo na Publicidade Descentralizada com o Token WOJAK

Wojak Finance: новаторская децентрализованная реклама с помощью токена WOJAK

Wojak Finance: WOJAK Token ile Merkezi Olmayan Reklamcılığa Öncülük Ediyoruz

Wojak Finance: Tiên phong quảng cáo phi tập trung với token WOJAK

Wojak Finance：利用 WOJAK 代币开创去中心化广告

Really? So you're just going to open anyway? I really wanted you to skip this one. I was busy travelling, and I had nothing to write. Came back from an 18 hour flight and kept thinking of what to write, but I couldn’t. So I figured I would ask for a favor and have you pass this one. Yet here we are.. So thanks for that.. What I am supposed to do now? Let me think. Oh— You know what? I have a quick story to tell. I was visiting my brother on a small and (very) remote island of French Polynesia called Nuku Hiva. So small, in fact, that it doesn’t even appear on the map unless you zoom wayyy in. Don’t believe me? The point is, it’s a small airport, and you have to walk yourself to the terminal. They have cones that tell you where to walk, but most importantly, where they don’t want you to walk past. On the way in, I was tired from my long journey there. I just followed the line. On the way out, I was feeling a little more like myself. I saw these cones again. And they saw me. They were lined up like soldiers, proudly wearing bright orange. Probably to show off, and also form a contrast to the tarmac. The cones seemed to stare back at me with a challenge. I am pretty sure they were whispering “Go ahead, step over. We dare you.” Wait. What? I looked at them. My pulse quickened immediately. I was being challenged. “What do you mean you dare me to step over? Do you even know me? I can do whatever I want.” I glance around. Everyone else is obediently tracing the path to the plane. Not me. The impulse takes over. I step over the cone barrier, and my foot lands on the other side.. I suddenly feel like a moonwalker claiming uncharted territory. The hot Polynesian air crackled with tension. I could feel the cones' silent outrage at my audacity. The thrill of the forbidden surges through me. My heart thumps in exhilaration. I am euphoric. But then, as if on cue, “Excuse me, sir, please return to the path,” a voice cut through my daydream. A staff member waved her hands with a mix of fear and anger. And just like that—I was caught. My quest was over. I had to wave my white flag, and step back over. Although they reclaimed my newly acquired territory, they did not take away my victory. I stepped back into line, but I had a smirk on my lips. The thrill of defiance had sent a jolt of excitement through my veins. It was a potent mixture of satisfaction and adrenaline. A simple act of rebellion that felt disproportionately exhilarating. Anyway.. I make my way to my seat on the plane. And then I start thinking.. Why do these feelings emerge so strongly when we push against boundaries? You see, it wasn't about the cones or the airport—it was a snapshot of a deeper, almost instinctual drive within us all. This urge to defy the norm. The urge to resist restrictions. It taps into something fundamental about human nature. The intrinsic desire for autonomy and freedom. This instinct inspired today's letter. It's about the allure of the forbidden and the resistance to being told what not to do. As it turns out, it plays in various facets of our lives. The small acts of rebellion when we pick the road less traveled The significant decisions that define our individuality The way we make decisions in general How we are influenced by people, companies, and marketing 1. Why We Chase the Forbidden Reflecting on that moment of rebellion at the airport. It’s clear this isn't just personal. It's universal. This instinct to challenge the boundaries is deeply embedded in us all. Just look at how Apple used this trait with their "Think Different" campaign. Apple didn’t sell products—they sold an idea. You know how? They aligned their brand with Einstein, Dylan, and MLK. Apple celebrated those who defy norms. They joined those who tap our desire to be part of something different. The Genius of "Think Different" Apple's strategy was a cultural statement more than it was pure marketing. These icons weren’t just talented; they were revolutionaries. Their simple message? It's cool to be different; and it's powerful to think outside the box. This strategy wasn't about selling; it was about igniting a cultural shift. Think about it—how often do we gravitate towards things just because they offer us a taste of defiance? That’s what Apple mastered. It’s almost like they marketed a rebellion. 2. The Neuroscience Behind the Temptation When we're told not to do something, our brain's instinct isn't just to listen—it's often to rebel. This rebellion is powered by our brain's reward system. Neurotransmitters, like dopamine, play a crucial role in it. We often pair dopamine with pleasure. But it's also about motivation, learning, and seeking rewards. When faced with a prohibition, our brain perceives it as a challenge. Engaging in the forbidden act and succeeding triggers a release of dopamine, which feels rewarding. Then there’s the prefrontal cortex—our brain’s rational part that tries to keep us in check. Dopamine signals pleasure and potential reward. The prefrontal cortex calculates the consequences. It tries to apply the brakes, weighing long-term outcomes against immediate gratification. Fun fact. This part of the brain is still developing in young adults. This explains why teenagers often take more risks. And boy was mine still developing during my teenage years. When you and I were barely walking on two feet and had hair to make Chewbacca jealous, our survival relied on curiosity and exploration. Survival depended on exploring the unknown and overcoming obstacles. This required questioning and testing the environment all the time. It was not about liking to try new things; it's about the neurological reward systems that encouraged those traits. It was necessary for survival, and it was neural, too. I was necessary for things like discovering what to eat. Imagine our ancestors venturing into new territories in search of something to eat. They come across a mushroom, bright red with white spots—pretty much screaming, "Don't touch me bro". But, curiosity and defiance? It's built-in. So, someone had to take the first bite, right? And you can bet they regretted it right after. That’s the kind of trial and error that taught everyone else to steer clear of the fancy fungi. But not all explorations ended badly. Sometimes, they found new, nourishing foods. These foods became staples in their diet. It makes me wonder about the first person who discovered fire—what an intense moment that must have been. Anyway, just some food for thought on your own terms. Fast forward to today. This system still urges us to push boundaries and explore new possibilities. This is true even when we’re safe from saber-toothed tigers. This legacy influences everything. It affects how we approach challenges. It explains why a simple "Do not push" button becomes almost irresistible. It explains why you felt compelled to open this letter even when explicitly told not to. Understanding these impulses allows us to channel them well. We can use them to motivate ourselves, manage others, and craft messages that resonate on a gut level. By acknowledging and embracing this innate curiosity, we can turn a simple urge into a powerful tool for engagement. 3. Defying Conventions: My Path to Independence Thinking back on where I am today, a lot of it came from just not fitting the mold. I wanted to go to an architecture school, but never could. Why? Well, I just didn't vibe with the whole school scene. My grades weren't great—not because I couldn't handle the work of because or below average intelligence. It was because I couldn't stand the way they taught things. So, I'd end up doodling and distracting others instead of paying attention. My jobs? I've always had a bit of a tough time with authority. Starting my company was my way out. I did not like having to obey my superiors at work simply because they were my superiors. When they were wrong, I made sure they knew. They did not like it, and I rarely kept a job for more than 6 months. Looking back, each of those defiant steps led me right here, to doing my own thing my own way. This journey isn't just mine. It's a testament to the power of questioning norms. This power can redefine personal paths and how we approach marketing and social engagement. Speaking of Marketing.. 4. Impact on Marketing and Social Behavior My journey away from traditional roles mirrors the tactics businesses use to captivate consumers. Here's the thing about marketing—it thrives on our natural urge to reach for the forbidden. Take "limited edition" products or "members-only" sales. This is about scarcity, but not only. It’s makes us feel like we're part of an exclusive club, stepping past the rope where others can't go. In video games, they hide Easter eggs you can only find by not following the usual paths. It turns players into insiders, sharing secrets that feel almost rebellious. Fashion plays with this, too. Look at those unannounced drops—they create a buzz by being elusive, sparking a mad dash to grab something unique before it disappears. This marketing savvy taps directly into our love for the elusive and the exclusive, turning simple buying decisions into moments of personal triumph against the norm. After stepping back into line at the airport, smirking from my small act of rebellion, I realized something crucial: the same thrill of defiance that fuels our personal choices can powerfully drive our business strategies. This realization isn't just about me—it's about how any business can tap into these universal instincts to craft compelling marketing strategies and create unforgettable customer experiences. Let's explore how this instinct for defiance can be strategically harnessed in your business to captivate and engage your audience. 5. How to Use This in Your Business - Framework and ideas Understanding Reactance in Marketing Let's talk about using reactance in a way that really resonates with people. How about we make our marketing a bit rebellious? Imagine you own a boutique coffee shop that prides itself on unique, ethically sourced beans. To use reactance, you could launch a campaign called "Not your grandma’s Bustelo." It would say that your coffee is for those who dare to taste the unique and bold. This resonates with consumers' desire to rebel. Each purchase is an act of defiance. Scarcity and Exclusivity Ever noticed how a 'limited-time offer' makes us want to buy something right now? That's scarcity at work. It's like telling people, "Hey, these gems won’t last." It makes whatever you're selling seem more valuable. It has everyone rushing to make sure they don’t miss out. Imagine this. You are a business coach. You're offering an elite retreat named " " to your top-tier clients. Figure It Out, or Die It starts with a tough, three-day jungle trek. The trek pushes clients to their physical and mental limits. This adventure sets the stage for the climax. It's a coaching session in total darkness, deep in a secluded jungle cabin. There are no distractions. This compels clients to rely only on their sharp instincts and introspective insights. Limit it to just three clients annually. This exclusive setup not only ensures a transformative experience but also plays on the scarcity effect. How much would a thrill-seeking CEO pay for such a unique challenge if marketed just right? We offer products for a limited time. This taps into a consumer's urge to defy the fear of missing out. It turns the purchase into a rebellion against the market's scarcity. Storytelling Techniques Craft your brand's story to resonate with the spirit of independence. Narratives that highlight overcoming adversity or defying odds can inspire customers to align with your brand as a statement of their values. You are the founder and can’t find a story? Call the business coach above and attend his retreat. You’ll have one 🙂 Such stories can inspire customers. They show them how to align with your brand as a statement of their values. : Contrarian Content Engage your audience with content that challenges mainstream ideas. This could be through thought leadership pieces. They take a new stance on common issues. This attracts those who appreciate a fresh perspective. Do you run a financial advisory firm? Do you want to challenge normal retirement planning? You could create a series of blog posts or videos titled “ ”. You Might Lose It All, But Your Grandkids Will Be Proud Ok, that might be a little bold. But you get the idea. And you’ll certainly get their attention. Our content challenges mainstream thoughts. It appeals to those who pride themselves on questioning the norm and valuing independent thought. In the end, whether it's stepping over a line of cones at a Polynesian airport or defying conventional marketing tactics, the allure of the forbidden runs deep within us. We have primal instincts for survival. They drive our decisions and actions. From them to the strategies of modern businesses, the urge to challenge boundaries shapes us. As you reflect on this newsletter (that you were kindly asked not to open), remember this. The most intriguing adventures start with a simple act of defiance. Embracing the spirit of rebellion can lead to unexpected discoveries and transformative experiences. As you navigate your own journey, may you find joy in pushing boundaries. Until next time, keep defying expectations and embracing the thrill of the forbidden. Strategizingly yours, Ben

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The world is filled with gurus whispering the same tired mantra: "Follow your passion." It's supposed to be the golden ticket to a happy, rich life. But I'm calling BS. Passion alone is like a fancy sports car with no gas. It might look good for a while, but it ain't getting you anywhere. I'm here to shake things up. What if I told you that becoming insanely good at something the market NEEDS will light a fire under your ass far more potent than any fleeting feeling of "passion?" Think back: how many times have you been excited about something new for a few weeks, only to lose the zeal? That's not passion, that's a crush. Real, soul-satisfying drive comes from becoming an undeniable force in what you do. Why "Follow Your Passion" Sucks This "passion" narrative is drilled into our heads from day one. Well-meaning parents, social media influencers, and self-proclaimed experts sell it hard. But here's why they're sending you down a rabbit hole: What gets you excited one week might bore you to tears the next. Passion is fluid; it's fickle. Your "Passion" is a Moving Target: Sure, being passionate about underwater basket weaving is cool, but will it pay your mortgage? Passion Doesn't Always Translate to $$$: You'll find plenty of passionate people who suck at what they do. The world rewards excellence, not enthusiasm. Passion Doesn't Equal Skill: Competence Is Your Real Superpower Forget trying to chase a feeling, focus on building your skill bank instead. Here's why competence is the rocket fuel you need: The world craves people who can code websites, write copy that converts, or untangle tax nightmares. If you deliver value, you get paid. Skills = Value. Period: Knowing you're GOOD at what you do is its own kind of high. When you see your skills translate into cash, it creates a different kind of passion, a more potent one. Competence Builds Confident Swagger: Suddenly, people want to work with YOU. Clients come knocking, doors you thought were closed start to swing open. Skills Unlock Opportunities You Never Imagined Finding a Skill the Market Will Pay You For Okay, so you're starting to see the value in chasing competence. But what skills should you hone? Let's ditch the fluff and get real: Ignore the latest "get-rich-quick" schemes. What skills have staying power? Think coding, persuasive writing, and fixing complex problems – things the market will always need. Hype is for Losers, Focus on the Timeless: Are you insanely organized with an eye for detail? Become the project management ninja everyone wants. Naturally persuasive? Pair that with sales skills, and companies will fight over you. Play to Your Existing Strengths (With a Twist): Sometimes, the most lucrative paths are the least crowded. Don't be afraid to specialize in a skill that others scoff at. Be Weird, Be Niche, Be in Demand: Competence Compounds Like Crazy Here's where building competence starts getting sexy. Imagine it like a damn good investment: You work smarter, charge more, and build a reputation that opens doors. More Skill = Faster Growth and Fatter Paydays: Suddenly, people come to YOU with juicy problems. You become the go-to expert, the indispensable one. Word Gets Around: Clients with big budgets want a piece of your magic. Now, YOU'RE in control, not the other way around. You Call the Shots: Suddenly, you're not just scraping by, you're crushing it. Competence is the Gateway to Real Passion I'm not saying passion doesn't matter. But here's the secret most people miss: true, soul-deep passion often emerges from mastery over time. Think about the chef who obsesses over the perfect sauce, the surgeon who saves lives, and the writer who puts words to the ideas that change the world. Passion is often built on the back of damn hard work, a refusal to quit, and the tangible impact you make. Chasing rainbows gets you nowhere. Focused, strategic work ethic is where you'll find the real magic. P ractical Strategies for Building Insane Competence I'm not one for sugarcoating: building valuable skills takes sweat. Let's talk about the hustle: Put in the daily reps, whether it's code practice, closing sales, or whatever your chosen path demands. Embrace the Grind, There are NO Shortcuts: Focus is everything. Become known as the "go-to" person for a specific, lucrative skill before you branch out. Master ONE Skill Before You Expand: Join a mastermind, hire a coach... stop hiding in your comfort zone. Learn from those a few steps ahead, and let them kick your ass when you need it. Get Uncomfortable, Find Mentors & Accountability: Even the most amazing skillset is useless if nobody knows about it. Learn to share your value and results, even if it feels awkward. Don't be Shy, Market Yourself: The Bottom Line: Passion Is a Lie, Competence Is King Does this mean you'll never work a hard day again? Hell no. Anything worth having takes effort. But here's the difference: when you're building on a foundation of solid skill, you've got the tools to smash through challenges and come out stronger. If you've been trapped in the "follow your feel-good passion" spiral, it's time to break free. Stop waiting for lightning to strike and start grinding. Real-World Examples (Because Talk Is Cheap) Check these out, and remember: none of these success stories began with a magical spark. Turns out, she was incredible at research and organization. Now, she's crushing six figures as a technical writer for big brands, on her own terms. The freelance writer who couldn't stand the thought of writing: She WAS passionate about helping businesses thrive. She became a niche advisor, quadrupling her income because she focused on the results, not the boring spreadsheets. The accountant who was miserable despite being good at numbers: Your Call To Action If you've been spinning your wheels, searching for that elusive spark of passion, I got news for you: it's time to WAKE UP. Today, make a decision that's bold, that might even feel scary. Where do you naturally excel? What comes a little easier to you than to others? Don't overthink it. **Stop Bullsh*tting Yourself: Where is there a NEED for those strengths? What industries are cash-rich, what problems are people DYING to have solved? Scan the World for Hungry Buyers: Pick a direction and commit. Find a course, hire a mentor, or just start relentlessly practicing on your own. Get Off Your Ass and TAKE ACTION: The road might not always be smooth, but let me tell you: focus on building your damn skillset, and the road will start building itself under your feet. The rewards – financial freedom, emotional satisfaction, and the pride of true mastery – will make the sweat worth every drop. Let's make competence the new cool. Let's redefine success not by what makes you FEEL GOOD, but by the irrefutable impact you make in this world. Have a great weekend! Scott Also published here

Passion Doesn't Pay Your Rent

Software Engineering for OpenHarmony: The Research Roadmap

Hi All! Here is my weekly email discussing mental models, performance, business, and entrepreneurship. If you love this content (please share it), but also… Check out my , connect with me on / , and read my Podcast YouTube Twitter daily newsletter. What’s in today’s newsletter? The Red Queen Effect is a concept that describes the phenomenon that organisms must constantly adapt, evolve, and compete in order to survive in a dynamic environment where their enemies and competitors are also evolving. The RQE also applies to business, technology, and society. In today’s fast-paced world, staying ahead of the curve requires constant innovation, learning, and improvement. Otherwise, you’re going to fall behind and become obsolete. The RQE also applies to personal and professional development. It means that we have to keep running faster and faster just to stay in the same place. But we can use it as a catalyst for our growth and development by being adaptable, foresighted, and continuously learning. You’re running as fast as you can, but you’re not moving. You’re stuck in the same spot while the world around you changes at warp speed. I can imagine this resonates with a lot of you (as scary and unsettling as this concept is), especially with the advent of new technologies seemingly being discovered and improved upon daily (and sometimes hourly). This is a common feeling in the modern world. You feel like you’re falling behind while everyone else is racing ahead. You’re missing out on opportunities while others are seizing them. You feel like you’re irrelevant, while others are influential. And, as stressful as this may seem, there’s some truth to it. However, this feeling/phenomenon is not new. That’s how Alice (from Wonderland) felt in Lewis Carroll’s classic book, “Through the Looking Glass”. In Wonderland, she met the Red Queen. The context was that Alice was on a chessboard that was moving backward while she was running forward. The Red Queen told her: “Now, here, you see, it takes all the running you can do, to keep in the same place. If you want to get somewhere else, you must run at least twice as fast as that!” This concept/theory is actually coined the Red Queen Effect (RQE). It’s a concept further explored in evolutionary biology, coined by Leigh Van Valen in 1973. It means that organisms have to constantly adapt, evolve, and compete to survive in a changing environment where their enemies and competitors are also evolving. Similar to how Alice was running but getting nowhere on the Red Queen’s chessboard. However, the RQE is not just for nature. It’s for business, technology, and society, too. In today’s fast-paced world, you have to keep innovating, learning, and improving to stay ahead of the curve. Otherwise, you risk falling behind and becoming irrelevant. The Red Queen Effect in Nature Imagine you’re Alice, and you are running with the Red Queen on a huge chessboard. But no matter how fast you run, you are not moving forward. The chessboard is moving backward at the same speed as you running forward. If you were to power walk, jog, or walk, you’d start to fall behind. It’s like a treadmill, where you have to run just to stay in the same place. This is how nature works. It means that living things have to keep changing and improving just to survive. Because their enemies and rivals are also changing and improving, they’re all running on the same treadmill. You can see the RQE everywhere in nature. It’s why animals and plants are always competing and evolving. For example, frogs have to catch flies to eat, and flies have to escape frogs to live. So frogs develop better tongues and flies develop better wings. This is a never-ending race where no one can win. This is what Charles Darwin discovered when he wrote his famous book, "On the Origin of Species" in 1859. He saw that nature is not peaceful but harsh. He wrote: "The most adaptable to change is the one that survives, not the strongest or the smartest." This is the core of natural selection, the process of evolution. It means that living things that fit their environment better have a higher chance of living and having babies and passing on their good features to their babies. Those who fit their environment worse have a lower chance of living and having babies and leaving behind their bad features. Over time, this leads to the creation of new kinds of living things suited to their own places. The RQE is the reason why we have so many different and amazing life forms on Earth. It is also the reason why we have to keep running to stay alive. The Red Queen Effect in Business The RQE is not only a challenge for nature but also for business. In the business world, the environment is constantly changing. Technology, competition, regulation, and consumer preferences. To succeed in business, you have to keep innovating, learning, and improving. Otherwise, you risk falling behind and losing your market share. Here’s a great example. In 1962, Warren Buffett bought a controlling stake in Berkshire Hathaway, a textile company. He thought he could turn it around by investing in new equipment, cutting costs, and diversifying into other businesses. ![A Young Warren Buffet & The Original Berkshire Hathaway (Source: @TickerHistory)](https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F7a0939c5-112f-406e-94aa-a4a5af78ff7e_940x496.jpeg "Ticker History 🗞 on X: "On this day in 1965 Warren Buffett gained majority  control of Berkshire Hathaway $BRK.A $BRK.B https://t.co/KFvmaphYR2" / X") But he soon realized that the textile industry was doomed, as cheaper imports from overseas flooded the market. No matter how much he invested, he could not keep up with the changing environment. He’s gone on record stating that the money he poured into the Textile company was the biggest investing mistake he’s ever made. He eventually shut down the textile operations in 1985 and focused on using Berkshire Hathaway as a holding company for his other investments. He learned from his mistake and applied the RQE to his investing strategy. His focus? Businesses that had a durable competitive advantage, such as strong brands, loyal customers, or high barriers to entry. Businesses that could adapt to change and innovate continuously, such as Apple, Amazon, and Netflix. He turned Berkshire Hathaway into one of the most successful and respected companies in the world. What’s the lesson? The RQE is a race you can’t win by running faster. You have to run smarter. The Red Queen Effect in Medicine The RQE doesn’t stop in business. It transcends medicine and health as well. The Emperor of All Maladies (Mukherjee) is a "biography" of cancer, covering the history of cancer treatment and research from ancient times to the present. It won the Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction in 2011 and was acclaimed by critics and audiences. One of the main themes of the book is the RQE in cancer treatment. Mukherjee shows how cancer is a constantly evolving and mutating disease that adapts to the various therapies and drugs that humans have developed to fight it. He writes: (Mukherjee 2010, p. 47). "Cancer is not a concentration camp, but it shares at least one trait with history's most tragic camps: an unceasing capacity to remember and propagate its own suffering. Cancer cells, unlike normal cells, can activate telomerase, an enzyme that allows them to preserve their chromosomes indefinitely. Cancer cells can thus defy the normal cycle of senescence and death. They can grow relentlessly, adaptively, and endlessly." The RQE in cancer treatment means that doctors and researchers have to keep running faster and faster, just to stay in the same place. They have to keep developing new drugs, new combinations, new strategies, and new technologies to keep up with the ever-changing nature of cancer. But outside of cancer, the RQE also applies to medical advancements in general, as well as technological innovations in other fields. Medical advancements are driven by the need to solve problems, improve outcomes, and enhance quality of life. But they also create new problems, new challenges, and new expectations. For example: The development of antibiotics revolutionized the treatment of infectious diseases but also led to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which pose a serious threat to public health. The development of vaccines eradicated many deadly diseases but also raised ethical, social, and political issues, such as the anti-vaccination movement, the distribution of vaccines, and the protection of intellectual property rights. The development of organ transplantation saved many lives but also created a shortage of donors, a black market for organs, and a debate over the definition of death. The development of genetic engineering opened up new possibilities for diagnosis, prevention, and therapy but also raised questions about the safety, efficacy, and ethics of modifying the human genome. The development of artificial intelligence and machine learning enabled new applications and insights but also generated concerns about the impact on human autonomy, privacy, and employment. The RQE in medical advancements means that doctors and researchers have to keep innovating, learning, and improving to keep up with the changing needs and demands of patients, society, and the environment. Strategies to Outpace the Red Queen The RQE is not just a business problem. It’s a personal problem. It means we have to run faster and faster just to keep up. But speed is not enough. We need a strategy. We need three skills to run smarter in the RQE: : How to change with the times. How to be flexible, resilient, and open-minded. How to experiment, fail, and learn. How to pivot, scale, and diversify. Adaptability is how we survive. Adaptability : How to see the future. How to be proactive, strategic, and creative. How to spot trends, opportunities, and threats. How to plan and prepare. How to deliver value. Foresight is how we succeed. Foresight : How to learn new things. How to be curious, motivated, and self-directed. How to access, evaluate, and synthesize information. How to collaborate, communicate, and share knowledge. Continuous learning is how we grow. Continuous learning These skills are not either-or. They are all in. They help us stay ahead of the curve, not just by running faster but by running smarter. Some food for thought: : Netflix is a leader in the streaming industry, but it faces constant competition from rivals like Disney+, Amazon Prime, and HBO Max. To stay ahead, Netflix has to invest heavily in original content, technology, and marketing. It also has to adapt to different markets, regulations, and customer preferences. Netflix has to run smarter by leveraging its data, brand, and network effects. Netflix : Tesla is a pioneer in the electric vehicle industry, but it faces challenges from incumbents like Toyota, Volkswagen, and Ford. To maintain its edge, Tesla has to innovate constantly in battery, software, and design. It also has to deal with supply chain issues, safety concerns, and environmental impacts. Tesla has to run smarter by harnessing its vision, culture, and fan base. Tesla : You are a professional in a dynamic and competitive field, but you face threats from automation, globalization, and disruption. To advance your career, you have to update your skills, knowledge, and network. You also have to balance your work, life, and health. You have to run smarter by developing your adaptability, foresight, and continuous learning. You The RQE teaches us some important lessons: Change is inevitable and accelerating. We have to embrace it, not resist it. Speed is necessary but not sufficient. We have to be strategic, not reactive. Value is relative and dynamic. We have to create it, not capture it. The RQE is a race we can’t win by running faster. We have to run smarter. Getting Personal I do realize that, to this point, most of this article may seem a little bit doom and gloom, so I figured I’d leave you with a few points on how to see the RQE as a blessing, not a curse. Because I know some of you are thinking that the RQE is not just for nature and business. It’s for you and me. It means we have to run faster and faster just to keep up. But how do we do that? How do we use the RQE to grow and thrive? Well, it’s not easy, but it’s doable. It takes a mix of strategies and mindsets that can help us adapt, anticipate, and learn. Here are a few things that you can lean into that will help you overcome it (and candidly, make you a much stronger person/professional at the same time). : Know where you are and where you want to go. 1. Assess What are your strengths and weaknesses? What are your goals and dreams? What are the opportunities and threats around you? How are you doing and improving? By asking these questions, you can find your gaps and areas for improvement. You can also compare yourself with your peers and rivals and see how you stand out. This is the first step of self-awareness and self-improvement. : Make a plan for your growth and development. 2. Develop What are the skills and knowledge you need to learn or improve? What are the resources and tools you need to get or use? What are the actions and steps you need to do or follow? How will you track your progress and results? By answering these questions, you can create a roadmap for your growth and development. You can also set and goals and targets and measure your performance and outcomes. smart achievable : Do your plan and learn as you go. This means that you have to act on your plan and learn from your experience. 3. Execute and iterate You have to be consistent, disciplined, and focused. You also have to be flexible, agile, and responsive. You have to be open to feedback, criticism, and advice. You have to be willing to try, fail, and learn from mistakes. You have to be able to pivot, scale, and diversify when needed. By doing these things, you can do your plan and learn as you go. You can also adjust your plan and strategy as you learn and grow. This is the third step of self-regulation and self-optimization. These strategies can help you use the RQE to your advantage. They can help you not only keep up but get ahead in a world that’s always moving. We don’t have to be scared of the RQE. We can use it as a spark for our growth and development. We can use it as a push for our innovation and excellence. We can use it as a chance for our success and happiness. Being cognizant and aware of the RQE is a way to get ahead in a world that’s always moving. If you enjoyed this article, I’d love to hear from you. Email me at scott@scottdclary.com or at me , and I’ll do my best to get back to everyone! tweet @ScottDClary Also published . here

The Red Queen Effect: Stop Running Faster, Start Thinking Smarter

I recently tested out , as the lite version was made available to Indians in September. My initial thoughts? Google’s SGE (Search Generative Experience) It feels like experiencing ChatGPT all over again, minus the wow factor. As a user, the convenience and speed at which I’m getting the AI-generated overviews are welcoming. The overviews are also accurate, and they answer the search intent very well. This just goes on to show how advanced and sophisticated the engine has become in answering the query within the context instead of relying only on keywords. But as a content marketer, I’m a little concerned with one more Search Engine Results Page (SERP) feature being added to Google’s roster of click-eating features. Case in point: Google shows the following knowledge panel for the keyword phrase “techniques” or “methods” in it. With the answers at the front and center of the SERP, the likelihood of someone clicking on a link to learn more goes down significantly. Or rich snippets for queries like these: I’ve sounded the alarm before in my article, , about how Google is slowly killing organic search. Some key takeaways from my article: Google Doesn’t Want Your Content to Succeed PPC and sponsored Ads are usurping Google SERPs. Google has become an “answer” engine, wherein it’s answering queries with rich snippets at the top of SERPs. As a result, there has been an increase in zero-click searches. In the future, getting content in front of a targeted audience will be expensive. However, not all is lost. Some of the new features might prove to be a blessing rather than a curse. Let’s look at the recent SERP changes and how they affect organic content performance. Note: I’m going to stick to my guns here and talk from the B2B/SaaS content point of view. Key SERP Feature Changes in the Recent Times First, let’s have a look at some of the commonly seen SERP features. Most of these show up “above the fold” or at the top of the SERP. This is a huge disadvantage for organic results. Why? It’s simple math. When the number of SERP features goes up, the space for organic content in the SERP comes down. This lowers the number of clicks on organic content. For example, certain branded keywords are biased towards SERP features. These include keywords like "tools,” “software,” and "platform" -- all of which have heavy buying intent and are central to many SaaS brands. Knowledge Panels for Branded Keywords I looked up “email marketing tool” and got the following knowledge panel and sponsored results. Above the fold, I don’t see any organic results. Sponsored results take the top spots, and “popular” tools get a spot on the knowledge panel. Notice how the knowledge panel contains results “from sources across the web.” Now, if you click on one of those tools, here’s what you get. On the brighter side, organic results are featured in the drop-down section for each option. Getting featured here could definitely improve impressions, but getting a click from the user will still be a shot in the dark. On a much, much brighter side, if you could get a brand feature on the knowledge panel itself, you can get in front of the audience quicker. It’s still a better shot than being stuck on page 2 of the SERPs. Continuous Scroll for Desktop Users In case you didn’t notice, SERPs have now become pageless for desktop users. You can now scroll through the results just like you scroll through Shorts and Reels. This update was made available in December last year. Since the update, users can scroll up to six pages worth of results before they need to hit “See More.” Now the question is, does this change from pagination to continuous scrolling on the desktop change anything in content performance? Most users never go beyond page 1 of Google to look for information. Can the continuous scroll really give visibility to content hidden in the deeper pages of the SERP? Unfortunately, there was no major difference for branded keywords. Analysis of the organic traffic data from before and after the continuous scroll showed no change. were still clicking on the top 3 results. 99% of the users Even for non-branded keywords, the majority of traffic and clicks went to the top 3 positions. That includes 50% of impressions and 88% of clicks on desktop. This only highlights the importance of scoring a high rank on the SERP.  Yes, CTRs for results beyond position 6 did improve after the continuous scroll update, but it was only 4% of the total clicks. With SGE now, the numbers will likely go down further. Here’s why. Search Generative Experience I ran a bunch of branded and non-branded queries to check the difference in responses. Here are my observations. SGE doesn’t display AI-generated responses for all queries. Users can decide whether to generate a response or not. SERP will display the knowledge panel even with the AI overview. The AI panel, if generated, takes up the entire screen. It provides a contextual answer for the query at hand. Plus, you get small arrowheads (toggles) to check the source cited for the answer. In the top right of the panel, you also get a carousel of 9 organic results to browse from. If a user lands here and your content gets featured in the carousel, you still have a 1/9 probability of earning a click. Now, for the non-branded queries. No rich snippet to answer the query. Unlike the branded keyword, I got a little preview of the AI panel before I clicked on “Show more” to expand the result. By design, the user can continue “browsing” through the AI panel itself. They wouldn’t have to scroll down to see the organic results. I also noticed something interesting. For certain queries, the AI panel showed an image result as well. And the order of the carousel at the top right keeps changing. But it’s mostly the top 9 organic results on the SERPs. You’ll still see a featured snippet and other SERP features for some queries, along with the AI panel preview. However, for a vague query with no specific intent, the AI-generated response was even more vague. And for some queries, there was no AI-generated response. Overall, the AI-powered overviews provide a good starting point for more in-depth research. But here’s the thing: Nearly doesn’t get any traffic from Google. Who is looking for information beyond the first page of Google? 90.53% of the content online Today, users are moving to platforms like Quora, Reddit, LinkedIn, and other social platforms and communities to look for answers and ask for help. Believe it or not, we’re well on our way to going back to a SERP-less world. As Gerald Murphy, renowned SEO and Senior Solution Business Manager at Similarweb, shares in the : Search SEO podcast What we’re now moving towards is things like voice-activated searches, for example, Alexa or Google Home, that’s bringing us into a SERP-less world again. So we’re moving away towards looking at a screen and just asking someone, and they’re talking back this time. But this time, it’s electronic rather than the neighbor on the street.

Google SERPs Have Changed: Did You Notice Yet?

Google SERPs পরিবর্তিত হয়েছে: আপনি কি এখনও লক্ষ্য করেছেন?

Google SERPs haben sich geändert: Ist Ihnen das schon aufgefallen?

Las SERP de Google han cambiado: ¿ya te diste cuenta?

Les SERP de Google ont changé : l'avez-vous déjà remarqué ?

Google SERPs बदल गए हैं: क्या आपने अभी तक नोटिस किया?

Google SERPが変化しました: もう気づきましたか?

Google SERP가 변경되었습니다: 아직 눈치채셨나요?

Os SERPs do Google mudaram: você já percebeu?

Поисковая выдача Google изменилась: вы уже заметили?

Google SERP'leri Değişti: Fark Ettiniz mi?

SERP của Google đã thay đổi: Bạn đã nhận thấy chưa?

Google SERP 已发生变化：您注意到了吗？

You aren’t cut out for this. It’s too hard. Only lucky people find success. Not smart enough. Not savvy enough. Not rich enough. I remember telling myself all those things as my first business ideas were shot down or crashed spectacularly. But I’m here to let you in on a little secret – they’re lies. Being an entrepreneur isn’t about success. It’s about failure. It’s about finding a way past the broken dream (and the debt), and trying something else. It’s about recognizing your mistakes and not making them again. Not every CEO is going to admit that. Some want to pretend they rose right to the top without making a single bad decision. But not Aaron Marino, who you may know better as Alpha M, the style guru that influences millions of men worldwide every day. When I for the Success Story Podcast, I kind of expected a rehearsed retelling of how his brilliant marketing mind and unwavering work ethic made him destined for greatness. But he wasn’t like that at all. sat down with Aaron Instead, he told me about the many brutal, terrible turns he made at the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey and how the dream he had since he was 12 proved unattainable. He was in his 30s when he finally let go of what he wanted for his whole life. The real lessons to take from Aaron – and any other honest entrepreneur – are what came next. Letting Go of Your Dream You might think that giving up on your lifelong dream is the end of the road, but in reality, it's just the beginning of a new chapter. When you let go of what you thought you wanted, you open yourself up to a world of new possibilities. Aaron's story is a testament to the power of letting go. As a young entrepreneur, he was fixated on achieving his childhood dream. He would’ve, as he put it, “sold a kidney” to keep his fitness center open. But it wasn't until he realized that the path he was on wouldn't lead him to success that he could finally pivot and find a new direction. Be Like Water It's important to remember that dreams, like life, are fluid. They can change and evolve as we grow and learn more about ourselves and the world around us. So, when it becomes clear your original goal isn't working, don't be afraid to let it go. It doesn't make you a failure; it makes you adaptable and resilient. “No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it's not the same river, and he's not the same man.” – Heraclitus Acknowledge the emotions that come with letting go of your dream – the disappointment, the heartache, the embarrassment, and sense of loss. It's okay to mourn what might have been but don't let that grief hold you back from exploring new opportunities. Remember, no experience is ever wasted. Every failure and setback teaches valuable lessons to apply to our next venture. So, how do you let go of your dream and move forward? Start by taking a step back and asking yourself some critical questions: Why did I want this dream in the first place? What was the driving force behind it? What did I learn from my failures and setbacks? What new opportunities have presented themselves since I started pursuing my original dream? Letting go of your dream doesn't mean giving up on success. Overcoming the Fear of Failure Emotional scarring is real. It’s natural to be afraid to try again after you fail. But no entrepreneur's journey is free from setbacks, and learning to overcome the fear of failure is crucial to finding success in the long run. Dealing with Embarrassment Let's face it. Failure can be downright embarrassing. But it's essential to remember that everyone experiences setbacks, and there's no shame in admitting that something didn't work out. Embrace the vulnerability that comes with failure and use it as an opportunity to grow and learn. The more comfortable you become with mistakes, the less power they will have over you. Disregarding Nay-Sayers There will always be people who doubt your abilities or try to discourage you from pursuing the next idea. Learn how to tune out these nay-sayers and stay focused on your goals. Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, and fellow entrepreneurs who believe in your vision and can offer encouragement when things get tough. Don't let the opinions of others define your self-worth or your potential for success. Finding New Opportunities in the Aftermath When one door closes, another often opens. Failure can be a blessing in disguise, leading you to new opportunities you might not have discovered otherwise. Stay open to these possibilities and actively seek them out. Network, attend industry events, and keep your eyes peeled for potential collaborations or innovative ideas that could be your next big break. Reevaluating Ideas and Applications Sometimes, the key to bouncing back from failure is looking closer at your ideas and their applications to determine where things went wrong. Dissection and Discovery When reevaluating your ideas, it's essential to break them down into their core components and analyze their strengths and weaknesses. Ask yourself: What aspects of my concept were successful or well-received? What parts didn't work or led to failure? Can any elements that can be salvaged or repurposed for a new venture? By dissecting your ideas this way, you can identify valuable lessons and discover new opportunities that might have gone unnoticed. Stop Chasing Trends In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, it's easy to get caught up in the latest trends or try to replicate the success of others. It worked for them – why can’t it work for me? This approach often leads to short-lived success or, worse, failure. Instead of chasing trends, focus on creating a product or service that genuinely addresses a need or solves a problem. By doing so, you'll be more likely to achieve lasting success. Be Yourself One of the most critical aspects of entrepreneurship is authenticity. Embrace your unique strengths, experiences, and perspective, and infuse them into your ideas and ventures. By being true to yourself, you'll not only create a more genuine connection with your audience, but you'll also stand out from the competition. Building a Personal Brand Aaron's journey highlights the importance of building a strong personal brand as an entrepreneur. He recognized that relying solely on numbers and business strategies wasn't enough; he needed to be the face of his brand and connect with his audience on a personal level. Here are some tips for building a personal brand and how they can open doors for diversification and growth. Ask Questions and Learn from Others Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek guidance from those in your shoes. By staying curious and open-minded, you'll gain valuable insights and knowledge to help you shape your brand and grow your business. Tell Authentic Stories Share your journey, struggles, and successes with your audience. Being transparent and genuine will create a deeper connection with your audience and establishes trust. Authentic storytelling is a powerful tool to help you stand out in a crowded market. Building a Supportive Tribe You can’t do this alone. Everyone needs a support system, and there are ways to help strengthen it, even if it seems like no one is there to help. 1. Networking and Collaboration Cultivate relationships with other entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and potential partners. Collaborating and sharing ideas can lead to new opportunities and help you expand your brand's reach. 2. The Value of "Competition” Rather than viewing your competitors as a threat, embrace the opportunity to learn from them and form mutually beneficial relationships. Competitors can become valuable resources and even allies in your journey. Staying Connected for Potential Help Maintain strong connections with your network, as you never know when you might need assistance or advice. A robust support system can be invaluable in overcoming obstacles and finding new opportunities. Embracing Slow, Steady Growth You don’t need a $20 million exit 18 months into the journey. While it's tempting to chase after rapid success, there's value in slow, steady growth. Focus on building your brand and business one step at a time, ensuring a solid foundation for long-term success. And hey, you’ll probably make some money along the way! Balancing Product Quality with Audience Building While creating a high-quality product or service is essential, pay attention to building an audience. Engage with your community, listen to their needs, and adapt your offerings accordingly. A strong personal brand, combined with a loyal audience, can lead to lasting success. Understanding the Role of Influencers Influencers can be valuable allies in promoting your brand and reaching a broader audience, but they shouldn't be your sole marketing strategy. Focus on building value and connecting directly with your audience to create a lasting impact. Final thoughts Not all dreams come true. Breathe, reflect, and start again. The entrepreneurial journey is full of ups and downs, but it's important to remember that every failure is an opportunity to learn, grow, and discover new possibilities. Embrace the challenges, let go of unattainable dreams, and keep moving forward with an open mind and a resilient spirit. If you want more inspiration and insights from successful entrepreneurs, check out the . There, you'll find hundreds of interviews with CEOs, thought leaders, and other accomplished individuals who share their stories, advice, and wisdom to help you on your path to success. Success Story YouTube channel If you enjoyed this article, I’d love to hear from you. to me at and I'll do my best to get back to everyone! Tweet @ScottDClary Also published here .

Boulevard of Broken Dreams: What Happens After Your First Failure

Think about the last or service you really loved. product I'm not talking about something you just thought was good, I’m talking about the one that made you feel like you couldn’t keep to yourself. The one that you couldn't help but rave about to your friends and family. Maybe it was a coach that blew you away with the knowledge and confidence you gained. Or maybe it was a skin care product that transformed your complexion and made you feel like a million bucks. Whatever it was, there's a good chance that the reason you loved it so much wasn't just because of the product or service itself. Part of the reason you fell in love with was because you . You felt like you knew the people behind the brand, you trusted them, you resonated with their message, and you felt a real emotional connection to their products or services. had developed a sense of intimacy with that business In my , we talked about many ways to level up your business. However, one I wanted to dissect further was the idea of brand intimacy. recent conversation with Mario Natarelli In this article, we'll explore the concept of brand intimacy, what it means, and how it can have a huge impact on your business. What is Brand Intimacy As a business owner or entrepreneur, you may have heard the term "brand intimacy" thrown around in conversations about and marketing. But what exactly does it mean, and how can it take your business to the next level? branding At its core, brand intimacy refers to . It's not just about the products or services that a brand offers, but about the way that customers feel when they interact with that brand. the emotional connection that customers have with a brand When customers have a strong emotional connection to a brand, they are more likely to be loyal, recommend the brand to others, and pay a premium for its products or services. Think about your own experiences as a consumer. Are there certain brands that you feel particularly connected to? Perhaps you have a favorite clothing brand that you always turn to when you need a new outfit, or maybe you have a go-to coffee shop that feels like a second home. These brands have likely established a sense of intimacy with you - they've created a bond that goes beyond the products or services they offer. Why Focus on Brand Intimacy in today's world, having a great product or service just isn't enough. There's more competition than ever before, and consumers have more choices than ever. In order to stand out, you need to do more than just offer a good product or service - you need to that goes beyond the transaction. create a connection with your customers That's where brand intimacy comes in. There are a few key reasons why brand intimacy will take your business to the next level. Customer Loyalty When you have a strong sense of brand intimacy, your customers don't just see you as a business that's trying to sell them something. They see you as a friend, a partner, someone they can trust and rely on. And that emotional connection is what keeps them coming back to you, time and time again. Attract New Customers But it's not just about customer loyalty. Brand intimacy can also help you attract new customers and stand out in a crowded marketplace. When your customers become your biggest advocates, they'll spread the word about your business to their friends and family. They'll share your content on social media, and even wear your merchandise. And all of that word-of-mouth marketing can lead to increased brand recognition, which can be a powerful driver of growth. And when potential customers see that kind of passion and enthusiasm, it can be a powerful motivator to choose your business over the competition Higher Customer Lifetime Value When your customers feel a strong emotional connection to your brand, they're more likely to stick around for the long haul. They'll keep coming back to you for repeat purchases, and they'll be more likely to try out new products or services that you offer. And that will lead to a higher customer lifetime value, which is a key metric for any business looking to grow and scale. Emotional Resonance Building brand intimacy can also help you create an emotional resonance with your customers. When you're able to , you can tap into their emotions and create a sense of meaning and purpose around your brand. connect with customers on a deeper level This can be a powerful motivator for customers to choose your brand over others, as they'll feel like they're part of something bigger than just a transactional relationship. So if you want to build a successful, sustainable business in today's world, focusing on brand intimacy is essential. It's not just a nice-to-have - it's a must-have. And in the next section, we'll explore some of the key strategies you can use to cultivate brand intimacy with your customers. How to Build Brand Intimacy So how can you create brand intimacy for your own business? There are a few key strategies to keep in mind. Build A Relationship With Your Customers Building brand intimacy is all about . And to do that, you need to focus on building relationships with them. establishing a strong emotional connection with your customers One of the first steps in building these relationships is to engage with your customers on a personal level. This means getting to know them as individuals, understanding their needs and preferences, and tailoring your approach to meet their specific requirements. There are several very effective ways to reach your customers and engage with them on this level. Social Media: One effective way to engage with customers on a personal level is through social media. Social media platforms provide a direct line of communication between businesses and customers, allowing for real-time interactions that can help build intimacy. By responding to comments and messages, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of your business, and offering exclusive content and promotions, you can create a sense of community and connection that can be hard to replicate elsewhere. Email Marketing: Another key touchpoint for building brand intimacy is through email marketing. By creating personalized email campaigns that speak directly to your customers' needs and interests, you can establish a deeper connection with them and build trust over time. Whether it's through targeted product recommendations, exclusive offers, or helpful tips and advice, email marketing can be a powerful tool for building intimacy and driving customer engagement. In-Person Interactions: Finally, in-person interactions are also critical for building brand intimacy. Whether it's through events, pop-up shops, or other in-person experiences, these touchpoints allow you to connect with customers in a more personal way. Create a Strong Brand Narrative Your brand narrative is your story, it's what helps your customers understand who you are, what you stand for, and what makes you different from the competition. You need to craft a story that is clear, concise, and emotionally resonant, one that captures the essence of your brand in a way that is both memorable and compelling. Creating a strong brand narrative requires a deep understanding of your brand's values, mission, and unique selling proposition. You need to be able to articulate what makes your brand special, and why customers should choose you over the competition. One effective way to develop a strong brand narrative is through the use of storytelling. You need to craft a narrative that incorporates your brand's history, values, and vision. By doing this, you can create a compelling story that engages customers and helps them connect with your brand on a deeper level. Let's take a look at an example, TOMS Shoes. Their brand narrative revolves around their mission to provide shoes to children in need, and to promote sustainable and ethical business practices. By communicating this mission through their marketing and messaging, TOMS has built a strong emotional connection with its customers, who feel good about buying from a brand that is doing good in the world. So, my friends, take some time to craft a killer brand narrative that resonates with your customers and helps them connect with your brand on an emotional level. It's not just about what you sell, it's about the story behind it that makes your brand special. Create Memorable Experiences Creating memorable experiences for your customers is another powerful way to build brand intimacy because it can make a lasting impression on them and create positive associations with your brand. This can lead to stronger emotional connections, greater loyalty, and increased word-of-mouth referrals. There are , and the approach you take will depend on your brand, your audience, and your resources. There are several good options for you, depending on your business. many different ways to create memorable experiences Personalized Interactions: For some brands, a personalized note or gift with a purchase can be a simple yet effective way to create a positive experience for customers. It shows that you value and appreciate their business and are willing to go the extra mile to make them feel special. VIP Event: For other brands, more elaborate experiences may be appropriate. For example, you could host a VIP event or exclusive product launch for your most loyal customers, giving them the opportunity to see your products or services in a new and exciting way. This can create a sense of exclusivity and excitement around your brand, and can make customers feel valued and appreciated. Exceptional Customer Service: Exceptional customer service can be a memorable experience in and of itself. When customers have a positive experience with a brand's customer service team, it can create a lasting impression and build brand loyalty. To provide exceptional customer service, it's important to be responsive, helpful, and empathetic to customers' needs and concerns. This can involve providing prompt and personalized support, going above and beyond to solve problems, and actively seeking out ways to improve the customer experience. By providing exceptional customer service, you can create positive emotional connections with your customers and build long-term loyalty. When creating memorable experiences, it's important to keep your brand and your audience in mind. The experience should be relevant to your brand and its values and should resonate with your customers. It's also important to make sure the experience is authentic and genuine - customers can usually tell when an experience is contrived or insincere, and this can actually have the opposite effect on building brand intimacy. Wrap-Up Of course, creating brand intimacy is easier said than done. It requires a deep understanding of your customers, a willingness to take risks and experiment with new marketing strategies, and a commitment to creating a consistent and authentic brand experience. But the rewards can be substantial - from increased customer loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals to a stronger bottom line. As you work to build brand intimacy for your business, keep in mind that it's not just about the products or services you offer - it's about the way you make your customers feel. By creating an emotional connection with your customers, you can build a foundation of trust and loyalty that can take your business to the next level. If you want to learn more about this topic, be sure to as he dropped a lot of knowledge about it. check out my full conversation with Mario That’s it for this week, thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this article, I’d love to hear from you. at me and I'll do my best to get back to everyone! Tweet @ScottDClary Also published here. The featured image of this piece was generated with Kadinsky v2. Prompt: Illustrate two humanoid brand mascots hugging.

How Brand Intimacy Takes Your Business to the Next Level

Being an entrepreneur can feel like a wild roller coaster ride, with all the highs and lows, twists and turns. We often find ourselves in the spotlight, whether it's pitching our ideas to potential clients or making public appearances. It's exciting, but it's also super easy to lose sight of what really matters - our 'why'. Being an entrepreneur isn't just about making money or becoming famous. It's about following our passions, creating something meaningful, and making a difference in the world. That's the heart and soul of our 'why'. Life can get hectic, and sometimes it's hard to remember why we started this journey in the first place. That's where self-awareness comes in. It's important to take a step back, reflect on our experiences, and stay connected to the bigger picture. I recently had a chat with , and one idea really hit home: the importance of being authentic in business. This got me thinking about my own struggles with authenticity when I first started out as an entrepreneur. Jessica Zweig Once I figured it out, everything changed - both in my business and my personal life. In this article, we'll explore why self-awareness and authenticity are so important for entrepreneurs, and how they can make a huge difference in your business. Whether you're just starting out or have been at it for years, these are lessons you don't want to miss. So, grab a cup of coffee, and let's dive in! Why Authenticity Matters When it comes to succeeding in business, and life for that matter, . It’s what makes you who you are, and what give you integrity in what you do. almost nothing is as important as being authentic This area is often overlooked, so I’ve outlined a few key reasons why authenticity is something you need to start focusing on. Trust First, let's talk about trust. Consumers want to know that the brands they're investing in are doing things the right way, ethically, transparently, and with integrity. When you bring your authentic self to the table, you're sending a clear message to your customers that you're a trustworthy and genuine brand. That leads to customer loyalty, repeat business, and positive word of mouth. Trust is one of the biggest key factors that will help you build a massively successful business. Standing Out But it's not just about building trust, it's also about standing out in a crowded market. There's a lot of noise out there, and you have to find a way to make yourself heard. By being authentic, you can set yourself apart from the crowd and establish a unique brand identity. With so many brands out there, you have to find a way to stand out, and that's by being real. You have to have a unique brand identity that only you can bring. That's how you attract new customers, increase brand recognition, and drive financial success. Company Culture Let's not forget about what sets the tone of your business, your company culture. Authenticity creates a work environment that's inclusive, respectful, and supportive. That leads to higher employee morale, better customer service, and increased productivity. And when you have all those things, you're on the fast track to building a business that crushes it. Investment Opportunities And finally, authenticity can bring in the big bucks from investors. Investors are looking for businesses that are genuine and have a clear mission. When you bring authenticity to the table, you're sending a clear message to potential investors that you're a well-established, trustworthy brand with a solid plan for growth. That makes it easier to secure funding and drive financial success. So there you have it; as you can see, authenticity is a non-negotiable in the business world, and it’s something you need to start working towards right now! The Road to Authenticity The road to authenticity in business can be challenging, especially in an industry that often values image over substance. But being authentic is crucial for building a successful business that is both profitable and fulfilling. To get started on the road to authenticity, it's important to first . understand what authenticity means for you and your business Authenticity can be defined as being true to yourself and your values. It means being honest about who you are, what you stand for, and what you want to achieve in your business. To determine your authenticity, it's helpful to ask yourself a few questions, such as. What are my core values and beliefs? What motivates me as an entrepreneur? What do I want to achieve in business? Answering these questions can help you better understand your own motivations and values, and how you want to express these through your business. Once you have a clear understanding of your authenticity, and you feel a sense of groundedness in who you are, it’s important to recognize the different ways authenticity can show up. The Different Types of Authenticity Authenticity can take on many different forms, and it's important to understand the different types that exist, to ensure you are hitting them all and staying true to yourself and your brand as much as possible. Personal authenticity is crucial in building a successful business, as it sets the tone for your company culture and values. Personal Authenticity: When you are true to yourself, you inspire trust and confidence in others. It allows you to be honest about your goals and aspirations, and to lead with integrity. Personal authenticity also means being authentic in your personal life, which can have a positive impact on your work life as well. By being true to yourself in all aspects of your life, you'll create a more fulfilling and satisfying existence, both personally and professionally. This means being honest about your strengths and weaknesses and being open about your motivations and goals. Brand authenticity involves being true to your brand's image and mission. Brand Authenticity: This means being consistent in your messaging, avoiding false promises or gimmicks, and staying true to your brand's values and beliefs. customers will recognize and trust you, which leads to increased loyalty and repeat business. , When your brand is authentic Authentic branding also helps you stand out in a crowded market, by creating a unique and memorable brand identity. Product authenticity is all about offering high-quality, genuine products that deliver real value to customers. Product Authenticity: This means avoiding shortcuts or cutting corners, and being transparent about the features and benefits of your products. Customers appreciate genuine, well-made products, and are more likely to trust and buy from companies that provide them. Authentic products also help you build a strong reputation and brand identity, as they demonstrate your commitment to excellence. Social authenticity involves taking a stand on important social and environmental issues, and being true to your values and beliefs. Social Authenticity: This means being transparent about your business practices and avoiding greenwashing or other types of false claims. When a business operates with social authenticity, it creates a more positive and inclusive company culture and demonstrates its commitment to making a positive impact in the world. This type of authenticity can help attract customers who are passionate about similar issues, and it also strengthens your brand's reputation as a responsible and trustworthy business. How to Build Authenticity Building authenticity for yourself and for your business requires patience and perseverance. It takes a . combination of self-reflection and action Here are some of the best ways I have found that can help you to cultivate long-lasting authenticity. 1. Know Yourself and Your Values Knowing yourself and your values is the first step towards building authenticity in your personal and professional life. It involves self-reflection and introspection, asking questions like "What do I stand for?" and "What is my purpose?" This process of self-discovery helps you identify what makes you unique and sets you apart from others. When you have a clear understanding of your values and beliefs, you are better equipped to make decisions that align with them and to communicate them authentically to others. In business, understanding your values and purpose is particularly important. It lays the foundation for your brand identity and sets the tone for all of your business decisions and actions. When you know what sets your brand apart, you can use that to differentiate yourself from your competitors and connect with your target audience. Your values and purpose should be reflected in your brand messaging, products, and marketing. When your customers see that your business is grounded in authenticity and integrity, they are more likely to trust and support you, which is essential for building a successful brand. 2. Be Transparent Transparency is crucial in building authenticity because it demonstrates a level of openness and honesty with your customers. When you are transparent about your practices, processes, and motivations, you are letting your customers see the inner workings of your business and giving them a better understanding of what your brand stands for. This helps build trust and credibility with your audience, as customers appreciate knowing that they can count on you to be honest and upfront with them. Also, transparency can also help you avoid potential negative consequences if your customers were to discover that you were hiding something or being dishonest. Being transparent can help prevent any surprises or negative reactions and instead promote a positive perception of your brand. It is important to note that transparency does not mean revealing all of your secrets and trade secrets, but rather sharing information that is relevant and important to your customers. This could include information about your supply chain, your company's values, or your approach to sustainability. By sharing this information, you can build trust with your customers and position your brand as a trustworthy and authentic entity. 3. Practice What You Preach This means walking the talk and being consistent in your actions and behaviors. When your business claims to be committed to sustainability, for example, it's important to take concrete steps to reduce waste, use eco-friendly materials, and minimize your impact on the environment. Consumers today are more aware of the impact businesses have on society and the environment, and they expect companies to be responsible and ethical. When you practice what you preach, you show your customers that you are serious about your values and beliefs, and that you are willing to put in the effort to make a positive impact. This type of consistency and commitment to your values can build trust and credibility with your audience, and it can set your business apart from others. By being true to your values and beliefs, you demonstrate that your business is genuine, trustworthy, and has a purpose beyond just making a profit. Ultimately, practicing what you preach can lead to increased customer loyalty, positive word-of-mouth, and long-term success for your business. 4. Authentically Connect With Your Customers Building authentic connections with your customers requires effort and commitment. To truly connect with your audience, you need to listen to their needs, address their concerns, and respond in a genuine and meaningful way. One way to authentically connect with customers is to actively engage with them through social media, email, and other channels. Respond to their comments and feedback, ask for their opinions, and take their suggestions into consideration when making business decisions. This not only demonstrates that you value their input, but it also helps you better understand their needs and concerns. Another way to authentically connect with customers is to make an effort to understand their unique perspectives and experiences. This might involve conducting market research, collecting feedback, or simply asking questions. By taking the time to understand your customers, you can better tailor your products, services, and marketing efforts to meet their needs. And of course, providing excellent customer service is a key aspect of authentically connecting with customers. Respond as soon as you can to customer inquiries and concerns, and go above and beyond to resolve any issues they may have. When customers feel valued and supported, they are more likely to remain loyal to your brand and recommend it to others. Wrap-Up Remember, building authenticity takes time and effort. Be patient, stay true to yourself and your values, and always strive to improve. By doing so, you'll create a brand that customers love and trust, and that's the key to long-term success. If you want to hear more about this and get some incredibly valuable insights from Jessica, be sure to . check out our full conversation That’s it for this week, thanks for reading. If you enjoyed this article, I’d love to hear from you. Reply to this or tweet at me and I'll do my best to get back to everyone! email @ScottDClary Also Published Here

Authenticity Is the Missing Link In Your Business: Here's Why It's Important

There are thousands of articles, videos, and courses out there that promise to teach you the secrets of the side hustle. “Just start reselling products on Amazon,” they’ll say, “and you can become rich like me!” This isn’t that. A few months ago, I sat down with Jimmy Esparza for the Success Story podcast. He’s the CEO of Renewable Power USA, one of the most successful companies in America, and a leading member in the charge toward renewable energy. Essentially, Jimmy runs a resale business. His company doesn’t manufacture the solar panels that they install, and they’re not designing new tech. He’s taking products from a manufacturer (companies like Tesla, in this case), and reselling them across the country. Except this isn’t just a side hustle. Renewable Power USA , reporting 1,341% growth over the last three years. now ranks No. 465 on the Inc. 5000 list How did he do it? Well, he was kind enough to share some of his wisdom which I’ve expanded on for this week’s newsletter. Building the brand When you're not manufacturing the product yourself, brand is everything. You need to convince people that: You know what you're doing You're trustworthy You can provide value, or solve their problems That requires real connection and not just a well-designed website. You need to develop relationships, both in the online and offline worlds. That means going out into your local community and talking directly with people, as well as using social media and other digital channels to spread awareness. Remember: you’re not just selling a product; you’re selling yourself. So take the time to invest in building relationships and creating an emotional connection that will draw people in—even when they may be shopping around for cheaper prices or faster delivery times from competitors. Boots on the ground You might think that everything can be done online and in a few certain situations that may be true. But even with today's technology, there's no substitute for getting out into the world, to shake hands and knock on doors. When it comes to reselling products, that means getting in front of your customers and building relationships with them. It could mean bringing a few products to an event or trade show, setting up shop at a local flea market, or simply networking with other business owners on LinkedIn. In other words: get out from behind your computer screen and do some real-world legwork. Make sure you’re visible in places where potential buyers are likely to be—and don’t be afraid to make those connections face-to-face if you can. Differentiate yourself At the end of the day, you’re selling someone else’s product. That means you need to find a way to stand out from your competition—otherwise, why should people buy from you? The key is not just to sell the same products as everyone else but also to focus on providing something unique and different. It could be an added service or an extra perk that nobody else offers, such as free installation or round-the-clock support and maintenance. Okay, those aren't the best examples. Because the focus here can't just point to a simple discount and say "see! We're unique!" It needs to be something that will resonate with your target market and get them to sell your product for you. When they're asked why they decided to go with you, they should be able to blurt out an answer without even thinking about it. The worst answer to that question is "they were the cheapest" because it means they couldn't find anything they liked about your company. The best answer is "I felt like they had my back" or, even better, something more specific. Be local (but not small) There's something that Jimmy said to me that I'll never forget. "People like local, but they don't like for you to be small." This was super interesting to me because local has become such a buzzword over the years. Customers are fickle, and even though they may profess their loyalty to local brands and services, they still want the trust and reliability that comes with a big-name brand. So what does that mean for you? It means you can't be too small, or else customers won't take you seriously. You need to have the capacity and infrastructure in place to handle large orders and provide quality customer service if you want to succeed as a reseller. Build on community That brings us to arguably the most important part, but it's also one that gets misconstrued a lot. Every business guide these days will tell you to build a community. But there is a completely different meaning to building on community. If you want to enter New Mexico, don't just drop a team from New York into an office in Santa Fe and expect them to know the local market. Instead, find leaders from the area to: Join your team Be an ambassador for the brand Help you understand what makes the local customers tick In other words, don't just offer products and services; give people a real reason to connect with you. Give them something they can be proud of – something that speaks to their values and experiences. Make it their neighbor knocking on the door, the familiar face at the local market, or the artist who knows all their favorite songs. Make it something that speaks to them on a personal level. Hire the best Stop. Lowballing. Talent. If you want to build a remarkable business, you need the best people in their respective fields. Make sure everyone on your team is well-compensated for their work. It will not only help you attract top talent, but it will also give them the incentive to stay and excel at what they do. Don't get me wrong. You need to make money. But if you invest in your team, I guarantee down the line you'll be swamped with so many qualified applicants that want to work for you that you won't know what to do. So many of the CEOs that I've met over the years have told me the same story. They took one of their first jobs because the pay was good. They had no experience in the field and no knowledge of the product. They just needed a job. It was the only way to survive. But they worked harder than everyone else because they were compensated well, and they started to see how the company's success translated directly to their own. Don’t run too fast One of the biggest mistakes an entrepreneur can make is to jump at every opportunity that presents itself. I know, that sounds sort of counterintuitive. But it's true, especially with a business model like this. Investors, partnerships, and even certain customers will present themselves as a golden ticket to success, but not all of them are. Sometimes you have to learn to say no to the good to focus on creating something great. Build your brand one customer at a time, one relationship at a time. Remember what made you successful in the first place: connecting with people and providing top-notch service. That's what will make your business remarkable, not a big investor or partner that professes to know all the answers. Final thoughts I'll leave you with one more quote from Jimmy that is important to remember because not all of us do: "One thing that keeps me up at night is providing time for my family. When there's another business challenge and other things coming up – I do not want to lose my family during this next level." Slow down. No matter what a certain engineer-turned-social-media-CEO says, you don't need to work 20-hour days. That is only going to lead to burnout, frustration, and bad decisions. Take time for your people, and yourself. That authenticity will shine through in the rest of your business. If you want to hear the whole talk with Jimmy, head over to the . We discussed lots of other things, including where the renewable energy industry is headed (which is a topic a little too complex for a newsletter, I think) and his story of being a first-generation immigrant. Success Story YouTube page If you enjoyed this article, I’d love to hear from you. Reply to this or tweet at me and I'll do my best to get back to everyone! email @ScottDClary Also Published Here

Jimmy Esparza Talks About Building a Remarkable Resale Business

Something I have always believed in is the practice of hiring work ethic, not just experience (job-dependant of course). If someone shows you that they are committed to giving you everything they’ve got, every single day, they’re worth more than the Harvard-educated applicant that is already looking ahead to their next resume bullet. If you’re a regular reader of this newsletter or watcher of the pod, you’ll remember a conversation I had with Stephen M. R. Covey about the difference between satisfied, engaged, and inspired employees. The latter than the former, a secret that all great business leaders have realized. is 125% more productive But what if you aren’t simply looking for another employee? What if instead of adding to your team, you’re searching for an executive-level candidate or even a new franchise partner? Do the same things apply? It’s maybe not as simple as hiring the one with the go-getter spirit. Recently, to talk about these differences. He’s the founder and CEO of O2E Brands, and the face you may associate with 1–800-GOT-JUNK, the rubbish removal brand that found innovative ways to market itself. I sat down with Brian Scudamore Brian was the first Success Story podcast guest that I could grill on the finer details of franchising, and he gave me a ton of useful insight on how to find the right people at all levels of business. Stash your trash in a flash Yep, that was a slogan for the Rubbish Boys, the original name for Brian’s junk removal company. It was a long, frustrating grind for him to grow that brand to where it is today. After years of hard work, he couldn’t escape the fact that things just weren’t working out. The business couldn’t get past the $500K revenue mark, and he no longer found any joy in coming to work. “They say one bad apple spoils the whole bunch. Probably nine of my 11 employees were bad apples. I just had to say, you know, I’m done. And I was done with that group.” That was the moment his education on hiring people first really started. He let the entire staff go, and rebuilt the team from the ground up. Suddenly: “What made the difference and got me to stick with it was once I figured out how to find the right people — how to hire happy people. It just made it so awesome. Every day was enjoyable, and I knew we could grow something together.” You can hear it even in the words he uses. No longer are they his employees, they’re his team and they’re working together. It’s all about fit The thing is, you can find incredible people who do incredible things. But that doesn’t mean they are right for your team. Brian told another story, about his time working alongside Launi Skinner, currently CEO of First West Credit Union. She is one of the most successful businesswomen in Canada, was once president of U.S. operations for Starbucks, and dominates anywhere she goes. Except with Brian. The two just didn’t fit together, even though they were accomplished, successful entrepreneurs. “When I brought her in to run my tiny little company, here’s someone who had 30,000 people in her employ. An amazing woman, super sharp, incredible smarts. She wasn’t the right leader for me.” Here’s where a lot get it wrong when talking about hiring the right people. It isn’t just about having the perfect personality, it’s about having the perfect personality Especially when hiring for a leadership position, like the COO of a growing brand, there needs to be a balancing act between experience and fit. for that role. The visionary and the integrator In Brian’s case, it was someone that could listen to his wild, sometimes unfocused ideas, and turn them into a reality. He’s open about the fact that he needs a right hand, and that some people — successful and competent as they may be — we’re going to be able to fit that role. Rocket Fuel, the book by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters, was where he discovered this, and it’s a lesson that every entrepreneur should learn. You don’t necessarily have to be one or the other — the visionary or the integrator — but this kind of balance on your senior leadership team is integral for success. Finding the balance “Hire on attitude, train on skill.” That’s Brian, explaining how he looks for franchise owners. He calls them franchise partners, actually, as one of the core tenants for O2E Brands is that the two sides of a franchising agreement work together to find success. His biggest challenge, he finds, is educating potential partners on the value of a franchise as an entrepreneurial avenue. A lot of those that think they are visionaries actually may be closer to the integrator — and that’s okay! There’s no shame in being able to execute a system flawlessly and create a successful business, even if it is based on a proven playbook. Throughout our talk, Brian was wearing a hat that read “it’s all about people” and he means it. The entire franchise ballgame comes down to finding and educating the right partners. BYOB Brian’s new book is called “BYOB: Build Your Own Business, Be Your Own Boss.” In it, he talks at length about what he has experienced over the years and how other people can learn from his failures. The three pillars of his success, as he puts it, have been vision, people, and systems. Vision If you are an entrepreneur, grinding to get to the next level, you might be scoffing at the idea of having big dreams. Did “a computer on every desk” as he was starting Microsoft, and what does that have to do with my gluten-free cookie business anyway? Bill Gates really say Brian was right there with you at one point. “I said, okay, enough negativity. I pulled out a sheet of paper and started to write what I could see in the future, using nothing but my imagination. We’ll be in the top 30 metros in North America, by the end of 2003. We’ll be on The Oprah Winfrey Show — the FedEx of junk removal.” Writing that down was revelatory for him, just as it is for so many other entrepreneurs (try it yourself, I dare you). Suddenly he could post this plan on the wall, and show it to the rest of the company. It didn’t work for everyone (“half the people said Brian, you’re smoking some hope dope”), but it did work for some, and their excitement became encouragement for everyone around them. People It’s that excitement that you have to find, and nurture. If they aren’t into the vision, they aren’t into the game. That Oprah Winfrey goal? , and it was an entry-level hire in his first PR job that landed the interview. That was real Highly engaged teams . It’s just simple math at that point, but it starts by making sure you’re putting the people ahead of everything else. Find candidates that what they do, not just ones that are good at it. You’ll be better off in the long run. are 21% more profitable love Systems No successful entrepreneur will leave a team running wild though. Brian has concrete systems in place to help his franchise partners create a stable foundation before they start suggesting changes. “What’s the best practice for anything you do?” It’s not just his franchisees, either. He will create checklists for everything, including simple PR calls. The iterative approach to making these systems better and better will allow you to search out better candidates, and not worry so much about their experience. Drop them in the chair, give them the playbook, and let them learn with predictable results. Hire on attitude, train on skill. Get out of your own way One of the things that entrepreneurs say the most is how difficult it is to give up control. This is your baby, and handing over even a small part of it can drive you crazy. But sometimes the most important thing you can do is let it happen. Don’t put limitations on yourself, or your team. “If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room.” There are a lot of business people who refuse to admit they’re in the wrong room. They think their knowledge is so valuable that they should be handing it out like Halloween candy, and end up filling their team with people who won’t ever challenge them. Make sure that you aren’t the one holding your company back, by thinking you have all the answers. That high school dropout that spent $700 on a truck to haul away junk? Yeah, he might have some pretty good ideas too. Final thoughts There’s a lot more that Brian and I talked about in the short time we had together. Even just the space he was in while we spoke was inspiring. If you want to hear more about scaling a franchise model, how he found the right person to take him from $100 million to $600 million, or the tricks to get your brand on the most popular talk show in the world, head over to the . Success Story YouTube channel That’s it for this week, speak soon! Also Published Here

People are What Matter Most When it Comes to Scaling

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