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Amazon is back at it again, trying to convince us that mixing retail with reality TV is the future we’ve all been waiting for. Their latest venture, “Buy It Now Bonanza,” launching October 30th, is basically a lovechild of Shark Tank and a hyperactive QVC on espresso shots who’s been blessed by Billy Mays. Entrepreneurs will strut out onto the stage and pitch their products with the desperation of someone pitching their business in a doomsday bunker for the chance to be featured in a dedicated “Buy It Now” store on Amazon and $20k in cash. The differentiating twist? You, dear viewer, can buy these products live as the show unfolds. Yep, you’re now part of the equation. Lauren Anderson, Amazon MGM Studios’ head of brand and content innovation, says the show is “all about giving audiences a glimpse into Amazon’s collaborative process with small businesses”, and “an opportunity for Amazon to showcase how they work with entrepreneurs.”  (So, a nicer way of saying: “Look, we’re not just a digital jungle where products go to get lost!”) But let’s peel back the glittery PR gloss and see it for what it is: t-commerce (television commerce) on a sugar rush, primed to turn your TV into a 24/7 carnival of consumerism. Let’s pause for a history lesson. T-commerce isn’t some new-fangled tech bro gimmick; it’s been around since the days when shoulder pads were in fashion and Madonna was still scandalous. It’s just an umbrella term that covers every possible way a person can be seduced into spending money from their couch. Remember QVC? That wasn’t just your grandma’s background noise while she knit itchy scarves. That and late-night infomercials were the pilgrims of t-commerce, turning casual TV watching into a full-contact sport where the prize was a set of steak knives or a fitness gadget that doubled as a coat rack. But fast-forward to the 2020s, and t-commerce has had a glow-up, and spawned an offspring known as shoppable TV. The main difference is that shoppable TV refers specifically to when sophisticated tech turns any TV into a virtual checkout lane. Take LG, for example, which integrated a platform called “LG Channels” that allows viewers to click on interactive ads and purchase products directly from their screens. Then there’s Walmart, which partnered with NBC Universal to launch a shoppable TV experience that transformed shows like Today into seamless shopping opportunities. By scanning a QR code or clicking a button on their remote, viewers could add products to their Walmart cart without ever leaving the couch. It’s a new era where your favorite sitcom can double as a personalized shopping mall—minus the mall walkers and pretzel stands. But whether it’s calling a number splashed across the screen in a retro cable ad or scanning a QR code while half-watching a reality show, the goal is the same: to turn your TV into a giant, digital impulse-buy button. You see it, you want it, you click it, it’s yours. It’s the lazy shopaholic’s dream—or nightmare, depending on your credit card limit. And Amazon? They’ve been trying to perfect this blend of entertainment and shopping for years, but with the success of Prime Video and the constant buzzing drone of Alexa in our homes, they’ve finally got the audience hooked. “Buy It Now Bonanza” isn’t their first attempt to turn TV into a digital mall. Remember those awkward QR codes popping up during shows, urging you to whip out your phone and buy some obscure kitchen gadget? Or that ill-fated Style Code Live that fizzled out in less than a year? Yes, we’ve seen this dance before. But Amazon’s nothing if not persistent, and like a toddler with a bag of sugar, they just keep going. So why could this be the moment they get it right? Well, for one thing, it’s not just about shopping—it’s about the spectacle. You’re not being asked to buy a product; you’re being lured into an emotional narrative. You’ll watch an entrepreneur put their heart, soul, and probably a second mortgage on the line, while Amazon executives and Gwyneth Paltrow (because, why not?) decide their fate. It’s high stakes, it’s drama, and if produced well, it’s the ultimate feel-good (or cringe) binge. And that’s where the genius lies. Because as you’re drawn into the tension and drama, you’ll almost forget that you’re being sold something. Almost. But the real strategy here is even sneakier. Amazon doesn’t just want your money; they want your future. This show is their latest attempt to reposition themselves not just as a place to find the cheapest toilet paper, but as a destination for discovering the cool, quirky, and innovative. They’ve been struggling to move from being the “everything store” to the “inspiration store,” but it’s tough to inspire when your algorithm keeps pushing bulk toothpaste. This show is a bet that by packaging product discovery in the slick, shiny wrapping paper of reality TV, they might finally convince you that they’re more than just an online bazaar. Yet, despite all the polish, there’s a part of us that wonders: isn’t this just a really, really long ad? But…does that really matter if it’s entertaining enough? Maybe not. Even Bernstein analyst Mark Shmulik quipped, “This feels more elegant than QR codes.” At the end of the day, if “Buy It Now Bonanza” manages to pull us away from doom-scrolling through social media or pretending to be interested in another AI-generated news article, maybe we’ll forgive Amazon for turning our TVs into a giant checkout screen. After all, we’ve already given in to binge-watching; is binge-buying really that far behind? And with that, perhaps it’s refreshing to focus on a piece of tech news that, for once, has nothing to do with AI. Well, unless Alexa decides to join the panel next season. Amazon is back at it again, trying to convince us that mixing retail with reality TV is the future we’ve all been waiting for. Their latest venture, “Buy It Now Bonanza,” launching October 30th, is basically a lovechild of Shark Tank and a hyperactive QVC on espresso shots who’s been blessed by Billy Mays. a lovechild of Shark Tank and a hyperactive QVC on espresso shots who’s been blessed by Billy Mays. Entrepreneurs will strut out onto the stage and pitch their products with the desperation of someone pitching their business in a doomsday bunker for the chance to be featured in a dedicated “Buy It Now” store on Amazon and $20k in cash. The differentiating twist? You, dear viewer, can buy these products live as the show unfolds. The differentiating twist? You, dear viewer, can buy these products live as the show unfolds. live Yep, you’re now part of the equation. Yep, you’re now part of the equation. Yep, you’re now part of the equation. Lauren Anderson, Amazon MGM Studios’ head of brand and content innovation, says the show is “all about giving audiences a glimpse into Amazon’s collaborative process with small businesses”, and “an opportunity for Amazon to showcase how they work with entrepreneurs.”  (So, a nicer way of saying: “Look, we’re not just a digital jungle where products go to get lost!”) But let’s peel back the glittery PR gloss and see it for what it is: t-commerce (television commerce) on a sugar rush, primed to turn your TV into a 24/7 carnival of consumerism. But let’s peel back the glittery PR gloss and see it for what it is: t-commerce (television commerce) on a sugar rush, primed to turn your TV into a 24/7 carnival of consumerism . primed to turn your TV into a 24/7 carnival of consumerism primed to turn your TV into a 24/7 carnival of consumerism Let’s pause for a history lesson. T-commerce isn’t some new-fangled tech bro gimmick; it’s been around since the days when shoulder pads were in fashion and Madonna was still scandalous. It’s just an umbrella term that covers every possible way a person can be seduced into spending money from their couch . Remember QVC? That wasn’t just your grandma’s background noise while she knit itchy scarves. T-commerce isn’t some new-fangled tech bro gimmick; it’s been around since the days when shoulder pads were in fashion and Madonna was still scandalous. every possible way a person can be seduced into spending money from their couch every possible way a person can be seduced into spending money from their couch That and late-night infomercials were the pilgrims of t-commerce, turning casual TV watching into a full-contact sport where the prize was a set of steak knives or a fitness gadget that doubled as a coat rack. But fast-forward to the 2020s, and t-commerce has had a glow-up, and spawned an offspring known as shoppable TV . The main difference is that shoppable TV refers specifically to when sophisticated tech turns any TV into a virtual checkout lane. Take LG, for example, which integrated a platform called “LG Channels” that allows viewers to click on interactive ads and purchase products directly from their screens. shoppable TV shoppable TV shoppable TV Then there’s Walmart, which partnered with NBC Universal to launch a shoppable TV experience that transformed shows like Today into seamless shopping opportunities. By scanning a QR code or clicking a button on their remote, viewers could add products to their Walmart cart without ever leaving the couch. It’s a new era where your favorite sitcom can double as a personalized shopping mall—minus the mall walkers and pretzel stands. But whether it’s calling a number splashed across the screen in a retro cable ad or scanning a QR code while half-watching a reality show, the goal is the same: to turn your TV into a giant, digital impulse-buy button. You see it, you want it, you click it, it’s yours. It’s the lazy shopaholic’s dream—or nightmare, depending on your credit card limit. But whether it’s calling a number splashed across the screen in a retro cable ad or scanning a QR code while half-watching a reality show, the goal is the same: to turn your TV into a giant, digital impulse-buy button . You see it, you want it, you click it, it’s yours. It’s the lazy shopaholic’s dream—or nightmare, depending on your credit card limit. to turn your TV into a giant, digital impulse-buy button You see it, you want it, you click it, it’s yours. And Amazon? They’ve been trying to perfect this blend of entertainment and shopping for years, but with the success of Prime Video and the constant buzzing drone of Alexa in our homes, they’ve finally got the audience hooked. “Buy It Now Bonanza” isn’t their first attempt to turn TV into a digital mall. And Amazon? They’ve been trying to perfect this blend of entertainment and shopping for years, but with the success of Prime Video and the constant buzzing drone of Alexa in our homes, they’ve finally got the audience hooked. finally Remember those awkward QR codes popping up during shows, urging you to whip out your phone and buy some obscure kitchen gadget? Or that ill-fated Style Code Live that fizzled out in less than a year? Yes, we’ve seen this dance before. But Amazon’s nothing if not persistent, and like a toddler with a bag of sugar, they just keep going. But Amazon’s nothing if not persistent, and like a toddler with a bag of sugar, they just keep going. So why could this be the moment they get it right? So why could this be the moment they get it right? Well, for one thing, it’s not just about shopping—it’s about the spectacle. You’re not being asked to buy a product; you’re being lured into an emotional narrative . You’ll watch an entrepreneur put their heart, soul, and probably a second mortgage on the line, while Amazon executives and Gwyneth Paltrow (because, why not?) decide their fate. Well, for one thing, it’s not just about shopping—it’s about the spectacle. Well, for one thing, it’s not just about shopping—it’s about the spectacle. asked you’re being lured into an emotional narrative It’s high stakes, it’s drama, and if produced well, it’s the ultimate feel-good (or cringe) binge. And that’s where the genius lies. Because as you’re drawn into the tension and drama, you’ll almost forget that you’re being sold something. Almost. Because as you’re drawn into the tension and drama, you’ll almost forget that you’re being sold something. Almost. Because as you’re drawn into the tension and drama, you’ll almost forget that you’re being sold something. Almost. But the real strategy here is even sneakier. Amazon doesn’t just want your money; they want your future. This show is their latest attempt to reposition themselves not just as a place to find the cheapest toilet paper, but as a destination for discovering the cool, quirky, and innovative. But the real strategy here is even sneakier. Amazon doesn’t just want your money; they want your future. Amazon doesn’t just want your money; they want your future . future destination for discovering destination for discovering discovering They’ve been struggling to move from being the “everything store” to the “inspiration store,” but it’s tough to inspire when your algorithm keeps pushing bulk toothpaste. This show is a bet that by packaging product discovery in the slick, shiny wrapping paper of reality TV, they might finally convince you that they’re more than just an online bazaar. Yet, despite all the polish, there’s a part of us that wonders: isn’t this just a really, really long ad? But…does that really matter if it’s entertaining enough? Maybe not. Even Bernstein analyst Mark Shmulik quipped, “This feels more elegant than QR codes.” Yet, despite all the polish, there’s a part of us that wonders: isn’t this just a really, really long ad? really At the end of the day, if “Buy It Now Bonanza” manages to pull us away from doom-scrolling through social media or pretending to be interested in another AI-generated news article, maybe we’ll forgive Amazon for turning our TVs into a giant checkout screen. After all, we’ve already given in to binge-watching; is binge-buying really that far behind? After all, we’ve already given in to binge-watching; is binge-buying really that far behind? really And with that, perhaps it’s refreshing to focus on a piece of tech news that, for once, has nothing to do with AI. Well, unless Alexa decides to join the panel next season. And with that, perhaps it’s refreshing to focus on a piece of tech news that, for once, has nothing to do with AI. Well, unless Alexa decides to join the panel next season.

Amazon’s ‘Buy It Now Bonanza’: The Shoppable Spectacle That’s Out to Make Your Wallet Weep

SINGAPORE — In what many are calling the boldest move in crypto innovation, the latest stablecoin, "USDN" (short for US Deez Nuts), launched at Token2049 with the promise of being a rock-solid, man-pegged asset. Unfortunately, the coin’s value plummeted to zero following sudden post-event clarity, leaving investors grasping for answers—and their wallets. Editor’s note: This article is satire and a creation of the author’s mind. “We wanted a stablecoin that truly represented the resilience of the U.S. dollar,” said USDN's founder, Chad "Diamond Hands" Johnson, wearing a shirt emblazoned with the phrase "Got Nuts?" on the back. “But also, we wanted it to be fun. You know, like a meme, but serious. That’s where the name came from.” Initially, the coin enjoyed rapid adoption, with hundreds of Token2049 attendees eagerly trading their assets for USDN in the hopes of escaping the volatility of other cryptocurrencies. "I wanted a safe haven for my portfolio," said one trader, moments after swapping his Ethereum for USDN. "Plus, the name is hilarious." However, within hours of launch, USDN's value began to wobble. Investors grew concerned when they discovered that the coin’s stability was, in fact, pegged not to the U.S. dollar but to a complex algorithm based on "vibes" and "hype metrics" from crypto Twitter. “We were blindsided,” admitted Johnson, sipping on a $12 coconut water purchased with real fiat money. “Turns out, pegging a currency to Twitter memes wasn’t the most solid foundation. Who could’ve seen that coming?” As the coin’s value collapsed from $1 to $0.69, then swiftly to $0.00, Token2049 attendees realized they had been left holding a metaphorical bag—not of nuts, but of regrets. The USDN Discord server, once buzzing with “Deez Nuts” jokes and GIFs, quickly turned into a hotbed of panic and desperation. Still, some remained optimistic. “I’m just gonna HODL,” said one determined trader, who refused to sell his now-worthless USDN holdings. “I believe in the long-term vision. Deez nuts always bounce back.” Johnson, unfazed by the collapse, assured investors that USDN would return stronger than ever with a rebranding effort. “Next time, we’ll just call it Deez Nutscoin,” he said. “I think people will really rally behind that. It’s not about the money, it’s about the memes.” In the aftermath of the collapse, the crypto community reflected on the lessons learned from USDN’s spectacular failure. Chief among them: maybe not every meme needs to be a financial product. SINGAPORE — In what many are calling the boldest move in crypto innovation, the latest stablecoin, "USDN" (short for US Deez Nuts), launched at Token2049 with the promise of being a rock-solid, man-pegged asset. Unfortunately, the coin’s value plummeted to zero following sudden post-event clarity, leaving investors grasping for answers—and their wallets. Editor’s note: This article is satire and a creation of the author’s mind. Editor’s note: This article is satire and a creation of the author’s mind. Editor’s note: This article is satire and a creation of the author’s mind. Editor’s note: This article is satire and a creation of the author’s mind. “We wanted a stablecoin that truly represented the resilience of the U.S. dollar,” said USDN's founder, Chad "Diamond Hands" Johnson, wearing a shirt emblazoned with the phrase "Got Nuts?" on the back. “But also, we wanted it to be fun. You know, like a meme, but serious. That’s where the name came from.” Initially, the coin enjoyed rapid adoption, with hundreds of Token2049 attendees eagerly trading their assets for USDN in the hopes of escaping the volatility of other cryptocurrencies. "I wanted a safe haven for my portfolio," said one trader, moments after swapping his Ethereum for USDN. "Plus, the name is hilarious." However, within hours of launch, USDN's value began to wobble. Investors grew concerned when they discovered that the coin’s stability was, in fact, pegged not to the U.S. dollar but to a complex algorithm based on "vibes" and "hype metrics" from crypto Twitter. “We were blindsided,” admitted Johnson, sipping on a $12 coconut water purchased with real fiat money. “Turns out, pegging a currency to Twitter memes wasn’t the most solid foundation. Who could’ve seen that coming?” As the coin’s value collapsed from $1 to $0.69, then swiftly to $0.00, Token2049 attendees realized they had been left holding a metaphorical bag—not of nuts, but of regrets. The USDN Discord server, once buzzing with “Deez Nuts” jokes and GIFs, quickly turned into a hotbed of panic and desperation. Still, some remained optimistic. “I’m just gonna HODL,” said one determined trader, who refused to sell his now-worthless USDN holdings. “I believe in the long-term vision. Deez nuts always bounce back.” Johnson, unfazed by the collapse, assured investors that USDN would return stronger than ever with a rebranding effort. “Next time, we’ll just call it Deez Nutscoin,” he said. “I think people will really rally behind that. It’s not about the money, it’s about the memes.” In the aftermath of the collapse, the crypto community reflected on the lessons learned from USDN’s spectacular failure. Chief among them: maybe not every meme needs to be a financial product.

US Dollar-Pegged "USDN" (US Deez Nuts) Promises To Penetrate Volatile Market, Fails Spectacularly

Το "USDN" (USDN) που συνδέεται με το δολάριο ΗΠΑ υπόσχεται να διεισδύσει στην ευμετάβλητη αγορά, αποτυγχάνει θεαματικά

El "USDN" (US Deez Nuts), vinculado al dólar estadounidense, promete penetrar en un mercado volátil, pero fracasa espectacularmente

L'USDN (US Deez Nuts), indexé sur le dollar américain, promet de pénétrer un marché volatil, mais échoue lamentablement

"USDN" (US Deez Nuts) המוצמד לדולר ארה"ב מבטיח לחדור לשוק הפכפך, נכשל בצורה מרהיבה

अमेरिकी डॉलर से जुड़े "यूएसडीएन" (यूएस डीज़ नट्स) ने अस्थिर बाजार में पैठ बनाने का वादा किया, लेकिन यह विफल हो गया

"USDN" (US Deez Nuts) ki fikse sou dola ameriken pwomèt pou l antre nan mache temèt, echwe espektakilèman.

ԱՄՆ դոլարով կապված «USDN»-ը (ԱՄՆ Deez Nuts) խոստանում է ներթափանցել անկայուն շուկա, տպավորիչ կերպով ձախողվել է

"USDN" (US Deez Nuts) yang Dipatok pada Dolar AS Berjanji Menembus Pasar yang Bergejolak, Namun Gagal Total

Il dollaro statunitense "USDN" (US Deez Nuts) promette di penetrare il mercato volatile, ma fallisce clamorosamente

米ドルにペッグされた「USDN」（US Deez Nuts）は不安定な市場に浸透すると約束したが、見事に失敗した

ASV dolāram piesaistītais "USDN" (ASV Deez Nuts) sola iekļūt nestabilajā tirgū, iespaidīgi neizdodas

„USDN“ поврзан со американски долари (US Deez Nuts) ветува дека ќе навлезе во нестабилниот пазар, спектакуларно не успеа

RTV, Indonesia's leading broadcasting network, is thrilled to announce the return of its beloved children's musical theater series, now under the new name "Swish." This highly anticipated revival promises to deliver an enchanting blend of entertainment and education for young viewers nationwide. Originally conceived as a special program to commemorate RTV's third anniversary, "Pesta Sahabat" quickly captured the hearts of audiences with its unique fusion of elements from RTV's cherished children's events, Fun Time and Dubi Dubi Dam. The overwhelming positive response from the community, coupled with the popularity of episodes like "Cinta Indonesia," paved the way for "Friend's Party" to evolve into a full-fledged musical theater series, airing monthly. "Swish" embarked on its musical journey with the debut episode "Ceria Zone," introducing its own theme songs and captivating narratives. From heartwarming tales like "Mother's Love," broadcasted on Mother's Day, to celebratory episodes marking occasions such as Valentine's Day and Kartini Day, the series has resonated deeply with viewers of all ages. In addition to celebrating Indonesia's cultural richness, "Swish" has also paid homage to significant national events, with special episodes commemorating Indonesian Independence Day and National Children's Day. However, the production faced a hiatus in 2020 due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, in response to overwhelming demand, RTV is thrilled to announce the revival of "Swish," promising to reignite the magic for both existing and new audiences. With its vibrant storytelling, catchy tunes, and valuable life lessons, the reimagined series aims to bring joy and inspiration to generations to come. As Indonesia navigates through uncertain times, "Swish" emerges as a symbol of hope and optimism, reaffirming the importance of imagination and creativity in uniting communities. Stay tuned as "Swish" embarks on a new chapter, spreading laughter and learning to every corner of the nation. About RTV: RTV's Musical Theater refers to a theatrical production company or venue that specializes in staging musicals. The acronym "RTV" could stand for a specific theater company or venue, but without more context, it's difficult to determine its exact meaning. However, in the context of the paragraph I provided, "RTV" is simply a placeholder for the name of the theater where "Swish Returns" is being performed. Contact Information:
Email: info@rtv.com
Number: +1 (565) 987-6543 RTV, Indonesia's leading broadcasting network, is thrilled to announce the return of its beloved children's musical theater series, now under the new name "Swish." This highly anticipated revival promises to deliver an enchanting blend of entertainment and education for young viewers nationwide. Originally conceived as a special program to commemorate RTV's third anniversary, "Pesta Sahabat" quickly captured the hearts of audiences with its unique fusion of elements from RTV's cherished children's events, Fun Time and Dubi Dubi Dam. The overwhelming positive response from the community, coupled with the popularity of episodes like "Cinta Indonesia," paved the way for "Friend's Party" to evolve into a full-fledged musical theater series, airing monthly. "Swish" embarked on its musical journey with the debut episode "Ceria Zone," introducing its own theme songs and captivating narratives. From heartwarming tales like "Mother's Love," broadcasted on Mother's Day, to celebratory episodes marking occasions such as Valentine's Day and Kartini Day, the series has resonated deeply with viewers of all ages. In addition to celebrating Indonesia's cultural richness, "Swish" has also paid homage to significant national events, with special episodes commemorating Indonesian Independence Day and National Children's Day. However, the production faced a hiatus in 2020 due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, in response to overwhelming demand, RTV is thrilled to announce the revival of "Swish," promising to reignite the magic for both existing and new audiences. With its vibrant storytelling, catchy tunes, and valuable life lessons, the reimagined series aims to bring joy and inspiration to generations to come. As Indonesia navigates through uncertain times, "Swish" emerges as a symbol of hope and optimism, reaffirming the importance of imagination and creativity in uniting communities. Stay tuned as "Swish" embarks on a new chapter, spreading laughter and learning to every corner of the nation. About RTV: RTV's Musical Theater refers to a theatrical production company or venue that specializes in staging musicals. The acronym "RTV" could stand for a specific theater company or venue, but without more context, it's difficult to determine its exact meaning. However, in the context of the paragraph I provided, "RTV" is simply a placeholder for the name of the theater where "Swish Returns" is being performed. About RTV: Contact Information:
Email: info@rtv.com Number: +1 (565) 987-6543 info@rtv.com

Swish Returns: RTV's Musical Theater Spectacle Makes a Comeback

Hello there, fellow coders! Today, I'm excited to share my first "Today I Learned" entry as I embark on my coding journey with the Sparta Coding Club. It's been a fantastic week, and I'm thrilled to tell you all about it. Joining the Sparta Coding Club was a fantastic decision. The world of coding has always fascinated me, and I felt it was time to take the plunge. What really convinced me to join this particular club was its reputation for providing an excellent learning environment and structured guidance. The prospect of collaborating with like-minded individuals who share my passion for coding was just too enticing to resist. My First Session In the very first session, we dived headfirst into the realm of HTML, the foundational language of web development. It was exhilarating to learn about HTML tags, how they structure web content, and, most importantly, how to create a basic webpage. Our instructor also emphasized the importance of semantic HTML and its impact on web accessibility and search engine optimization. Furthermore, it is important to Google any information you need related to HTML rather than spending hours trying to by heart the syntax. And in the second session, we jumped into Bootstrap, which is a collection of stylish CSS. It just makes your work look more attractive by not putting in much effort. We also got a taste of JavaScript using the console in the browser as it is the only programming language the browser natively understands. What went really well today was the instructor's teaching approach. He broke down complex concepts into bite-sized, digestible pieces, which made it much easier for newcomers like me to understand. The hands-on practice was another highlight, allowing me to put my newly acquired knowledge to the test. Admittedly, I did face a bit of a challenge with nesting HTML elements correctly, but I'm confident that practice will make perfect. Looking ahead, I'm eager to delve into CSS, a vital component of web design and beautification. Additionally, I can't wait to explore JavaScript, which brings interactivity to web applications. My ultimate goal is to complete a small project that combines HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to solidify my understanding and put my skills to the test. So, there you have it—my first week with Sparta Coding Club, and it's safe to say I'm already hooked. Stay tuned for more updates on my coding journey and the exciting world of web development. Until next time, happy coding!

My First Week With the Sparta Coding Club - Today I Learned

Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea by Jules Verne, is part of the HackerNoon Books Series. You can jump to any chapter in this book . VANIKORO here CHAPTER XVIII: VANIKORO This terrible spectacle was the forerunner of the series of maritime catastrophes that the was destined to meet with in its route. As long as it went through more frequented waters, we often saw the hulls of shipwrecked vessels that were rotting in the depths, and deeper down cannons, bullets, anchors, chains, and a thousand other iron materials eaten up by rust. However, on the 11th of December we sighted the Pomotou Islands, the old “dangerous group” of Bougainville, that extend over a space of 500 leagues at E.S.E. to W.N.W., from the Island Ducie to that of Lazareff. This group covers an area of 370 square leagues, and it is formed of sixty groups of islands, among which the Gambier group is remarkable, over which France exercises sway. These are coral islands, slowly raised, but continuous, created by the daily work of polypi. Then this new island will be joined later on to the neighboring groups, and a fifth continent will stretch from New Zealand and New Caledonia, and from thence to the Marquesas. Nautilus One day, when I was suggesting this theory to Captain Nemo, he replied coldly: “The earth does not want new continents, but new men.” Chance had conducted the towards the Island of Clermont-Tonnere, one of the most curious of the group, that was discovered in 1822 by Captain Bell of the Minerva. I could study now the madreporal system, to which are due the islands in this ocean. Nautilus Madrepores (which must not be mistaken for corals) have a tissue lined with a calcareous crust, and the modifications of its structure have induced M. Milne Edwards, my worthy master, to class them into five sections. The animalcule that the marine polypus secretes live by millions at the bottom of their cells. Their calcareous deposits become rocks, reefs, and large and small islands. Here they form a ring, surrounding a little inland lake, that communicates with the sea by means of gaps. There they make barriers of reefs like those on the coasts of New Caledonia and the various Pomoton islands. In other places, like those at Reunion and at Maurice, they raise fringed reefs, high, straight walls, near which the depth of the ocean is considerable. Some cable-lengths off the shores of the Island of Clermont I admired the gigantic work accomplished by these microscopical workers. These walls are specially the work of those madrepores known as milleporas, porites, madrepores, and astraeas. These polypi are found particularly in the rough beds of the sea, near the surface; and consequently it is from the upper part that they begin their operations, in which they bury themselves by degrees with the debris of the secretions that support them. Such is, at least, Darwin’s theory, who thus explains the formation of the , a superior theory (to my mind) to that given of the foundation of the madreporical works, summits of mountains or volcanoes, that are submerged some feet below the level of the sea. atolls I could observe closely these curious walls, for perpendicularly they were more than 300 yards deep, and our electric sheets lighted up this calcareous matter brilliantly. Replying to a question Conseil asked me as to the time these colossal barriers took to be raised, I astonished him much by telling him that learned men reckoned it about the eighth of an inch in a hundred years. Towards evening Clermont-Tonnerre was lost in the distance, and the route of the was sensibly changed. After having crossed the tropic of Capricorn in 135° longitude, it sailed W.N.W., making again for the tropical zone. Although the summer sun was very strong, we did not suffer from heat, for at fifteen or twenty fathoms below the surface, the temperature did not rise above from ten to twelve degrees. Nautilus On 15th of December, we left to the east the bewitching group of the Societies and the graceful Tahiti, queen of the Pacific. I saw in the morning, some miles to the windward, the elevated summits of the island. These waters furnished our table with excellent fish, mackerel, bonitos, and some varieties of a sea-serpent. On the 25th of December the sailed into the midst of the New Hebrides, discovered by Quiros in 1606, and that Bougainville explored in 1768, and to which Cook gave its present name in 1773. This group is composed principally of nine large islands, that form a band of 120 leagues N.N.S. to S.S.W., between 15° and 2° S. lat., and 164 deg. and 168° long. We passed tolerably near to the Island of Aurou, that at noon looked like a mass of green woods, surmounted by a peak of great height. Nautilus That day being Christmas Day, Ned Land seemed to regret sorely the non-celebration of “Christmas,” the family fete of which Protestants are so fond. I had not seen Captain Nemo for a week, when, on the morning of the 27th, he came into the large drawing-room, always seeming as if he had seen you five minutes before. I was busily tracing the route of the on the planisphere. The Captain came up to me, put his finger on one spot on the chart, and said this single word. Nautilus “Vanikoro.” The effect was magical! It was the name of the islands on which La Perouse had been lost! I rose suddenly. “The has brought us to Vanikoro?” I asked. Nautilus “Yes, Professor,” said the Captain. “And I can visit the celebrated islands where the Boussole and the Astrolabe struck?” “If you like, Professor.” “When shall we be there?” “We are there now.” Followed by Captain Nemo, I went up on to the platform, and greedily scanned the horizon. To the N.E. two volcanic islands emerged of unequal size, surrounded by a coral reef that measured forty miles in circumference. We were close to Vanikoro, really the one to which Dumont d’Urville gave the name of Isle de la Recherche, and exactly facing the little harbour of Vanou, situated in 16° 4′ S. lat., and 164° 32′ E. long. The earth seemed covered with verdure from the shore to the summits in the interior, that were crowned by Mount Kapogo, 476 feet high. The , having passed the outer belt of rocks by a narrow strait, found itself among breakers where the sea was from thirty to forty fathoms deep. Under the verdant shade of some mangroves I perceived some savages, who appeared greatly surprised at our approach. In the long black body, moving between wind and water, did they not see some formidable cetacean that they regarded with suspicion? Nautilus Just then Captain Nemo asked me what I knew about the wreck of La Perouse. “Only what everyone knows, Captain,” I replied. “And could you tell me what everyone knows about it?” he inquired, ironically. “Easily.” I related to him all that the last works of Dumont d’Urville had made known—works from which the following is a brief account. La Perouse, and his second, Captain de Langle, were sent by Louis XVI, in 1785, on a voyage of circumnavigation. They embarked in the corvettes Boussole and the Astrolabe, neither of which were again heard of. In 1791, the French Government, justly uneasy as to the fate of these two sloops, manned two large merchantmen, the Recherche and the Esperance, which left Brest the 28th of September under the command of Bruni d’Entrecasteaux. Two months after, they learned from Bowen, commander of the Albemarle, that the debris of shipwrecked vessels had been seen on the coasts of New Georgia. But D’Entrecasteaux, ignoring this communication—rather uncertain, besides—directed his course towards the Admiralty Islands, mentioned in a report of Captain Hunter’s as being the place where La Perouse was wrecked. They sought in vain. The Esperance and the Recherche passed before Vanikoro without stopping there, and, in fact, this voyage was most disastrous, as it cost D’Entrecasteaux his life, and those of two of his lieutenants, besides several of his crew. Captain Dillon, a shrewd old Pacific sailor, was the first to find unmistakable traces of the wrecks. On the 15th of May, 1824, his vessel, the St. Patrick, passed close to Tikopia, one of the New Hebrides. There a Lascar came alongside in a canoe, sold him the handle of a sword in silver that bore the print of characters engraved on the hilt. The Lascar pretended that six years before, during a stay at Vanikoro, he had seen two Europeans that belonged to some vessels that had run aground on the reefs some years ago. Dillon guessed that he meant La Perouse, whose disappearance had troubled the whole world. He tried to get on to Vanikoro, where, according to the Lascar, he would find numerous debris of the wreck, but winds and tides prevented him. Dillon returned to Calcutta. There he interested the Asiatic Society and the Indian Company in his discovery. A vessel, to which was given the name of the Recherche, was put at his disposal, and he set out, 23rd January, 1827, accompanied by a French agent. The Recherche, after touching at several points in the Pacific, cast anchor before Vanikoro, 7th July, 1827, in that same harbour of Vanou where the was at this time. Nautilus There it collected numerous relics of the wreck—iron utensils, anchors, pulley-strops, swivel-guns, an 18 lbs. shot, fragments of astronomical instruments, a piece of crown work, and a bronze clock, bearing this inscription—“Bazin m’a fait,” the mark of the foundry of the arsenal at Brest about 1785. There could be no further doubt. Dillon, having made all inquiries, stayed in the unlucky place till October. Then he quitted Vanikoro, and directed his course towards New Zealand; put into Calcutta, 7th April, 1828, and returned to France, where he was warmly welcomed by Charles X. But at the same time, without knowing Dillon’s movements, Dumont d’Urville had already set out to find the scene of the wreck. And they had learned from a whaler that some medals and a cross of St. Louis had been found in the hands of some savages of Louisiade and New Caledonia. Dumont d’Urville, commander of the Astrolabe, had then sailed, and two months after Dillon had left Vanikoro he put into Hobart Town. There he learned the results of Dillon’s inquiries, and found that a certain James Hobbs, second lieutenant of the Union of Calcutta, after landing on an island situated 8° 18′ S. lat., and 156° 30′ E. long., had seen some iron bars and red stuffs used by the natives of these parts. Dumont d’Urville, much perplexed, and not knowing how to credit the reports of low-class journals, decided to follow Dillon’s track. On the 10th of February, 1828, the Astrolabe appeared off Tikopia, and took as guide and interpreter a deserter found on the island; made his way to Vanikoro, sighted it on the 12th inst., lay among the reefs until the 14th, and not until the 20th did he cast anchor within the barrier in the harbour of Vanou. On the 23rd, several officers went round the island and brought back some unimportant trifles. The natives, adopting a system of denials and evasions, refused to take them to the unlucky place. This ambiguous conduct led them to believe that the natives had ill-treated the castaways, and indeed they seemed to fear that Dumont d’Urville had come to avenge La Perouse and his unfortunate crew. However, on the 26th, appeased by some presents, and understanding that they had no reprisals to fear, they led M. Jacquireot to the scene of the wreck. There, in three or four fathoms of water, between the reefs of Pacou and Vanou, lay anchors, cannons, pigs of lead and iron, embedded in the limy concretions. The large boat and the whaler belonging to the Astrolabe were sent to this place, and, not without some difficulty, their crews hauled up an anchor weighing 1,800 lbs., a brass gun, some pigs of iron, and two copper swivel-guns. Dumont d’Urville, questioning the natives, learned too that La Perouse, after losing both his vessels on the reefs of this island, had constructed a smaller boat, only to be lost a second time. Where, no one knew. But the French Government, fearing that Dumont d’Urville was not acquainted with Dillon’s movements, had sent the sloop Bayonnaise, commanded by Legoarant de Tromelin, to Vanikoro, which had been stationed on the west coast of America. The Bayonnaise cast her anchor before Vanikoro some months after the departure of the Astrolabe, but found no new document; but stated that the savages had respected the monument to La Perouse. That is the substance of what I told Captain Nemo. “So,” he said, “no one knows now where the third vessel perished that was constructed by the castaways on the island of Vanikoro?” “No one knows.” Captain Nemo said nothing, but signed to me to follow him into the large saloon. The sank several yards below the waves, and the panels were opened. Nautilus I hastened to the aperture, and under the crustations of coral, covered with fungi, syphonules, alcyons, madrepores, through myriads of charming fish—girelles, glyphisidri, pompherides, diacopes, and holocentres—I recognised certain debris that the drags had not been able to tear up—iron stirrups, anchors, cannons, bullets, capstan fittings, the stem of a ship, all objects clearly proving the wreck of some vessel, and now carpeted with living flowers. While I was looking on this desolate scene, Captain Nemo said, in a sad voice: “Commander La Perouse set out 7th December, 1785, with his vessels La Boussole and the Astrolabe. He first cast anchor at Botany Bay, visited the Friendly Isles, New Caledonia, then directed his course towards Santa Cruz, and put into Namouka, one of the Hapai group. Then his vessels struck on the unknown reefs of Vanikoro. The Boussole, which went first, ran aground on the southerly coast. The Astrolabe went to its help, and ran aground too. The first vessel was destroyed almost immediately. The second, stranded under the wind, resisted some days. The natives made the castaways welcome. They installed themselves in the island, and constructed a smaller boat with the debris of the two large ones. Some sailors stayed willingly at Vanikoro; the others, weak and ill, set out with La Perouse. They directed their course towards the Solomon Islands, and there perished, with everything, on the westerly coast of the chief island of the group, between Capes Deception and Satisfaction.” “How do you know that?” “By this, that I found on the spot where was the last wreck.” Captain Nemo showed me a tin-plate box, stamped with the French arms, and corroded by the salt water. He opened it, and I saw a bundle of papers, yellow but still readable. They were the instructions of the naval minister to Commander La Perouse, annotated in the margin in Louis XVI’s handwriting. “Ah! it is a fine death for a sailor!” said Captain Nemo, at last. “A coral tomb makes a quiet grave; and I trust that I and my comrades will find no other.” 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. Jules Verne (1994). Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea. Urbana, Illinois: Project Gutenberg. Retrieved October 2022 https://www.gutenberg.org/files/164/164-h/164-h.htm 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

This terrible spectacle was the forerunner of the series of maritime catastrophes

SPECTACULAR LIGHTING

Holiday marketing, as it’s preached, is a con. A ritualized scam sold to startups by ad platforms, agencies, and marketers who profit from your desperation. Do you really think you can outspend Amazon, out-charm Coca-Cola, or outmaneuver Nike? Unless you’re secretly printing money in your garage, no. Christmas isn’t for playing Santa with jingles and 20% off codes—it’s for hunting a whale. Next year, turn your entire marketing strategy into a public obsession with one person. Not a “demographic market.” Not a target persona. A single, breathing, flesh-and-blood human being whose “yes”could grant you permanent access to Cuban’s Cabo cocktail club. Bet it all on a campaign so precise it’s borderline psychotic. Dangerous? Stupid? Obviously, and probably. But boring? Never. If it crashes, people will talk. If it flies, you’ll own the year. Either is better than begging the Internet for clicks, plus it’ll give you a great story (or a great excuse to drink). Holiday Marketing Sucks. This is a classic David vs. Goliath scenario—except Goliath has a machine gun and David forgot his slingshot. Here’s why it’s a losing battle: You’re Outgunned And Outclassed Every big brand with deep pockets is jacking up CPMs. Ad costs more than double, competition spikes, and algorithms prioritize whoever spends the most. Yeah, obviously not you. If your $10K campaign could talk, it would whisper: "Help." You’re Selling To Zombies By mid-December, your CTA is competing with drunken relatives, shipping delays, and 87 ads about the perfect gift for canine therapists. Your audience is fried and their brains are coasting on autopilot—barely capable of choosing between two brands of wrapping paper. You’re Competing With Santa Claus—Not Other Businesses Know why Apple kills it every Christmas? It’s not with Siri, but with sentiment. The holiday giants use their war chests to craft masterpieces that ride on the emotional meaning of the season—nostalgia, tradition, family values—and if you’re not on par, you come off like a door-to-door salesman in a Saint Nick suit. ROI = Regret On Investment December sales bring January sobs. Whatever you make from your festive push will be eaten alive by your CPA—and you’ll wake up next month drowning in remorse, invoices, and wondering where the cash went. (Hint: Zuck’s back pocket) Why Serenading One Person Is The Smartest Play The best presents don’t come in mass-produced packages. Neither should your holiday marketing. A custom campaign is as much a gift to them as it is to you. It’s Psychological Warfare People hate being sold to, but they love feeling chosen. Focusing on one person creates a psychological bind: If they respond, they know they’re winning because you’ve done all the work to court them.If they don’t respond, they wonder if someone else will—and if they’ll miss their shot. It’s The Ultimate Litmus Test For Your Product If you can’t convince one perfect-fit customer, how will you convince hundreds? A campaign por uno is the fastest way to figure out if your pitch, product, and strategy are sharp enough to scale. It’s The Best Marketing Boot Camp A one-person campaign is combat training. No crutches of generic strategies, no Canva, no “but our CTR was decent” excuses—survival here relies on raw ingenuity, superhuman agility, and uncompromising precision. Success isn’t guaranteed, but clarity is. The hard lessons will stick, and your team becomes immune to mediocrity. After this, they’ll be more than competent: they’ll be dangerous. It Turns Failure Into Success Even if it “fails,” it doesn’t. People appreciate balls. The audacity of your move becomes its own currency, generating buzz, controversy, and respect—all of which could bag you a new client, partner, or investor. In a one-person campaign, failure is just another kind of success. How To Execute A Campaign That Borders On Maniacal Step 1: Pick Your Whale A Dream Customer: E.g., the enterprise client whose logo would give your sales team goosebumps.A Key Partner: E.g., the CMO that could double your reach if they said yes.An Influential Investor: Not just for the check, but for the name on the cap table. Be ambitious, but realistic. Elon’s too busy running Government Efficiency. Aim for the guys two rungs below him. Step 2: Stalk Your Prey Just because you’re targeting one person doesn’t mean you get to skip the user insight phase. Oh no, this research matters even more when you’re professing love, and it doesn’t stop at their LinkedIn profile. Do they like having their ego massaged? Have a fetish for cryptic puzzles? Are they nosing around for gaming collaborations? Stalk (ethically), snoop (strategically), and build a dossier so good it’d make the FBI sweat. Just remember there’s a fine line between research and “why is there a black van outside my house?” Step 3: Unleash Controlled Madness. Now that you understand your whale’s appetite, cook up the bait. Go brazen, or don’t bother. But your bravado and performance art means nothing without an unapologetic CTA and irresistible pitch. That ask needs to be so direct it’s borderline confrontational, and that pitch better feel like a bespoke Italian suit. Here are some thought-starters: Sponsor Their Daily Coffee: Find out where they get their morning coffee and prepay for a week of their orders. Include a personalized note on every receipt that says: “Fuel for your next great decision—working with us.” Ship A Literal Door: Send them a door (yes, an actual door) with a key attached and a note: “This is the key to unlocking something extraordinary. Let’s talk.” Buy An Editorial: Call up some prestigious publication they subscribe to and splurge on a paid piece. Write an open letter addressed to them, full of specifics about why they should engage with you. Be cheeky: “Hey [Their Name], Playing Small Looks Weird on You.” Step 4: Make Sure The World Knows You’re Crazy. Exclusivity is no fun if no one’s watching. Turn your serenade into a spectacle. More thought-starters: Build a Public Countdown: Launch a countdown clock on social media, with posts teasing, “6 Days Until [Target’s Name] Changes Everything.” Make sure they’re mentioned, their employees are tagged, their peers are targeted. Go Guerrilla (Literally): Hire street performers or actors to “protest” outside their HQ, carrying signs with slogans like, “[Target’s Name], Take the Meeting!”. Extra karma if it’s themed to their industry or product. Rent Their Attention: Buy ad space outside their office. A billboard. Graffiti a building (legally). Be loud to the point you start the water cooler gossip: “Dear [Name], If You Don’t Call Us, We’ll Have to Buy More Billboards. And That’s Awkward for Everyone.” Final Thoughts: Maybe It’s Not You—Maybe It’s Just Dumb Sometimes, you’re not bad at the game—the game is (likely) a waste of time. Holiday marketing for startups? That’s the house always winning, with you just the festive confetti. Stop groveling for attention in a system that turns startups into cannon fodder for ad giants. That’s not persistence—it’s herd mentality dressed up as hustle. Do something irrationally ambitious. Go unhinged, go nuclear. Not because it’s guaranteed success, but because it’s not preordained defeat. At least you’ll have had some fun, and failed in style—on your own terms, not theirs. It’s Christmas. Use the season for what it’s meant for—walking away from bad ideas. Holiday marketing, as it’s preached, is a con. A ritualized scam sold to startups by ad platforms, agencies, and marketers who profit from your desperation. Do you really think you can outspend Amazon, out-charm Coca-Cola, or outmaneuver Nike? Unless you’re secretly printing money in your garage, no. Holiday marketing, as it’s preached, is a con. Christmas isn’t for playing Santa with jingles and 20% off codes—it’s for hunting a whale. Next year, turn your entire marketing strategy into a public obsession with one person. Not a “demographic market.” Not a target persona. A single, breathing, flesh-and-blood human being whose “yes”could grant you permanent access to Cuban’s Cabo cocktail club. Next year, turn your entire marketing strategy into a public obsession with one person. Bet it all on a campaign so precise it’s borderline psychotic . Dangerous? Stupid? Obviously, and probably. But boring? Never. so precise it’s borderline psychotic so precise it’s borderline psychotic But boring? Never. If it crashes, people will talk. If it flies, you’ll own the year. Either is better than begging the Internet for clicks, plus it’ll give you a great story (or a great excuse to drink). Holiday Marketing Sucks. Holiday Marketing Sucks. This is a classic David vs. Goliath scenario— except Goliath has a machine gun and David forgot his slingshot . Here’s why it’s a losing battle: except Goliath has a machine gun and David forgot his slingshot except Goliath has a machine gun and David forgot his slingshot You’re Outgunned And Outclassed You’re Outgunned And Outclassed Every big brand with deep pockets is jacking up CPMs. Ad costs more than double, competition spikes, and algorithms prioritize whoever spends the most. Yeah, obviously not you. If your $10K campaign could talk, it would whisper: "Help." If your $10K campaign could talk, it would whisper: "Help." You’re Selling To Zombies You’re Selling To Zombies By mid-December, your CTA is competing with drunken relatives, shipping delays, and 87 ads about the perfect gift for canine therapists. Your audience is fried and their brains are coasting on autopilot—barely capable of choosing between two brands of wrapping paper. You’re Competing With Santa Claus—Not Other Businesses You’re Competing With Santa Claus—Not Other Businesses Know why Apple kills it every Christmas? It’s not with Siri, but with sentiment . The holiday giants use their war chests to craft masterpieces that ride on the emotional meaning of the season —nostalgia, tradition, family values—and if you’re not on par, you come off like a door-to-door salesman in a Saint Nick suit. sentiment that ride on the emotional meaning of the season that ride on the emotional meaning of the season ROI = Regret On Investment ROI = Regret On Investment December sales bring January sobs. Whatever you make from your festive push will be eaten alive by your CPA —and you’ll wake up next month drowning in remorse, invoices, and wondering where the cash went. (Hint: Zuck’s back pocket) Whatever you make from your festive push will be eaten alive by your CPA Whatever you make from your festive push will be eaten alive by your CPA Why Serenading One Person Is The Smartest Play Why Serenading One Person Is The Smartest Play The best presents don’t come in mass-produced packages. Neither should your holiday marketing. A custom campaign is as much a gift to them as it is to you. A custom campaign is as much a gift to them as it is to you. A custom campaign is as much a gift to them as it is to you. It’s Psychological Warfare It’s Psychological Warfare People hate being sold to, but they love feeling chosen. Focusing on one person creates a psychological bind: If they respond, they know they’re winning because you’ve done all the work to court them. If they don’t respond, they wonder if someone else will—and if they’ll miss their shot. If they respond, they know they’re winning because you’ve done all the work to court them. If they don’t respond, they wonder if someone else will—and if they’ll miss their shot. It’s The Ultimate Litmus Test For Your Product It’s The Ultimate Litmus Test For Your Product If you can’t convince one perfect-fit customer, how will you convince hundreds? A campaign por uno is the fastest way to figure out if your pitch, product, and strategy are sharp enough to scale. It’s The Best Marketing Boot Camp It’s The Best Marketing Boot Camp A one-person campaign is combat training. No crutches of generic strategies, no Canva, no “but our CTR was decent” excuses—survival here relies on raw ingenuity, superhuman agility, and uncompromising precision. Success isn’t guaranteed, but clarity is. The hard lessons will stick, and your team becomes immune to mediocrity. After this, they’ll be more than competent: they’ll be dangerous. Success isn’t guaranteed, but clarity is. It Turns Failure Into Success It Turns Failure Into Success Even if it “fails,” it doesn’t. People appreciate balls. The audacity of your move becomes its own currency, generating buzz, controversy, and respect— all of which could bag you a new client, partner, or investor. In a one-person campaign, failure is just another kind of success. all of which could bag you a new client, partner, or investor. all of which could bag you a new client, partner, or investor. How To Execute A Campaign That Borders On Maniacal How To Execute A Campaign That Borders On Maniacal Step 1: Pick Your Whale Step 1: Pick Your Whale A Dream Customer: E.g., the enterprise client whose logo would give your sales team goosebumps. A Key Partner: E.g., the CMO that could double your reach if they said yes. An Influential Investor: Not just for the check, but for the name on the cap table. A Dream Customer: E.g., the enterprise client whose logo would give your sales team goosebumps. A Dream Customer: A Key Partner: E.g., the CMO that could double your reach if they said yes. A Key Partner: An Influential Investor: Not just for the check, but for the name on the cap table. An Influential Investor: Be ambitious, but realistic. Elon’s too busy running Government Efficiency. Aim for the guys two rungs below him. Step 2: Stalk Your Prey Step 2: Stalk Your Prey Just because you’re targeting one person doesn’t mean you get to skip the user insight phase . Oh no, this research matters even more when you’re professing love, and it doesn’t stop at their LinkedIn profile. Do they like having their ego massaged? Have a fetish for cryptic puzzles? Are they nosing around for gaming collaborations? doesn’t mean you get to skip the user insight phase doesn’t mean you get to skip the user insight phase Stalk (ethically), snoop (strategically), and build a dossier so good it’d make the FBI sweat. Just remember there’s a fine line between research and “why is there a black van outside my house?” Just remember there’s a fine line between research and “why is there a black van outside my house?” Step 3: Unleash Controlled Madness. Step 3: Unleash Controlled Madness. Now that you understand your whale’s appetite, cook up the bait. Go brazen, or don’t bother. But your bravado and performance art means nothing without an unapologetic CTA and irresistible pitch. That ask needs to be so direct it’s borderline confrontational , and that pitch better feel like a bespoke Italian suit. But your bravado and performance art means nothing without an unapologetic CTA and irresistible pitch. so direct it’s borderline confrontational Here are some thought-starters: Here are some thought-starters: Sponsor Their Daily Coffee: Find out where they get their morning coffee and prepay for a week of their orders. Include a personalized note on every receipt that says: “ Fuel for your next great decision—working with us. ” Sponsor Their Daily Coffee: Fuel for your next great decision—working with us. Ship A Literal Door: Send them a door (yes, an actual door) with a key attached and a note: “ This is the key to unlocking something extraordinary. Let’s talk. ” Ship A Literal Door: This is the key to unlocking something extraordinary. Let’s talk. Buy An Editorial: Call up some prestigious publication they subscribe to and splurge on a paid piece. Write an open letter addressed to them, full of specifics about why they should engage with you. Be cheeky: “ Hey [Their Name], Playing Small Looks Weird on You .” Buy An Editorial: Hey [Their Name], Playing Small Looks Weird on You Step 4: Make Sure The World Knows You’re Crazy. Step 4: Make Sure The World Knows You’re Crazy. Exclusivity is no fun if no one’s watching. Turn your serenade into a spectacle. More thought-starters: More thought-starters: Build a Public Countdown: Launch a countdown clock on social media, with posts teasing, “ 6 Days Until [Target’s Name] Changes Everything. ” Make sure they’re mentioned, their employees are tagged, their peers are targeted. Build a Public Countdown: 6 Days Until [Target’s Name] Changes Everything. Go Guerrilla (Literally) : Hire street performers or actors to “protest” outside their HQ, carrying signs with slogans like, “ [Target’s Name], Take the Meeting! ”. Extra karma if it’s themed to their industry or product. Go Guerrilla (Literally) [Target’s Name], Take the Meeting! Rent Their Attention: Buy ad space outside their office. A billboard. Graffiti a building (legally). Be loud to the point you start the water cooler gossip: “ Dear [Name], If You Don’t Call Us, We’ll Have to Buy More Billboards. And That’s Awkward for Everyone. ” Rent Their Attention: Dear [Name], If You Don’t Call Us, We’ll Have to Buy More Billboards. And That’s Awkward for Everyone. Final Thoughts: Maybe It’s Not You—Maybe It’s Just Dumb Final Thoughts: Maybe It’s Not You—Maybe It’s Just Dumb Sometimes, you’re not bad at the game—the game is (likely) a waste of time. Holiday marketing for startups? That’s the house always winning, with you just the festive confetti. Stop groveling for attention in a system that turns startups into cannon fodder for ad giants. That’s not persistence— it’s herd mentality dressed up as hustle . Do something irrationally ambitious. Go unhinged, go nuclear . Not because it’s guaranteed success, but because it’s not preordained defeat. At least you’ll have had some fun, and failed in style— on your own terms, not theirs . it’s herd mentality dressed up as hustle it’s herd mentality dressed up as hustle Go unhinged, go nuclear Not because it’s guaranteed success, but because it’s not preordained defeat. on your own terms, not theirs It’s Christmas. Use the season for what it’s meant for—walking away from bad ideas. It’s Christmas. Use the season for what it’s meant for—walking away from bad ideas.

Next Holiday Season, Ignore Everyone Except One Customer

I næste feriesæson, ignorer alle undtagen én kunde

La próxima temporada navideña, ignore a todos excepto a un cliente

Sljedeće blagdanske sezone zanemarite sve osim jednog kupca

次のホリデーシーズンは、1人の顧客以外全員を無視する

შემდეგი სადღესასწაულო სეზონი, იგნორირება გაუკეთეთ ყველას გარდა ერთი მომხმარებლისა

រដូវកាលឈប់សម្រាកបន្ទាប់ មិនអើពើនឹងអ្នកគ្រប់គ្នា លើកលែងតែអតិថិជនម្នាក់

다음 휴가 시즌에는 한 명의 고객을 제외한 모든 사람을 무시하세요

Saison ya ba fêtes oyo ekoya, Ignorer mutu nionso sauf Client moko

Hamuq Fiesta pacha, Llapa runata mana kasuychu, huk rantiqmanta aswanta

Следеће празничне сезоне, игноришите све осим једног купца

Susunod na Holiday Season, Balewalain ang Lahat Maliban sa Isang Customer

Keyingi bayram mavsumida bitta mijozdan tashqari hammaga e'tibor bermang

The Dead Internet Theory: The Dark Side of AI Automation

দ্য ডেড ইন্টারনেট থিওরি: এআই অটোমেশনের অন্ধকার দিক

La teoría de la Internet muerta: el lado oscuro de la automatización con IA

תיאוריית האינטרנט המתים: הצד האפל של אוטומציה של AI

Teorija mrtvog interneta: Tamna strana automatizacije umjetne inteligencije

死んだインターネット理論: AI 自動化のダークサイド

Teori Internet Mati: Sisi Gelap Automasi AI

De theorie van het dode internet: de donkere kant van AI-automatisering

Теория мертвого Интернета: темная сторона автоматизации ИИ

Aragtida Internetka ee Dhimatay: Dhinaca Madow ee Automation-ka AI

ทฤษฎีอินเทอร์เน็ตที่ตายแล้ว: ด้านมืดของระบบอัตโนมัติ AI

I-Dead Internet Theory: Uhlangothi Olumnyama lwe-AI Automation

For decades, fútbol’s ecosystem has upheld a status quo that leaves fans disconnected—without a voice, a stake, or a meaningful way to be part of the game they love. Despite fútbol’s global popularity, there has been no unified platform that truly empowers fans or brings them closer to the sport in transformative ways. Founded by visionary builders from Uruguay and Argentina, 0xFútbol is changing the game. By leveraging blockchain technology, they are creating a digital hub for the world’s 4 billion fútbol fans—a place where they can connect, compete, and even own a piece of fútbol’s future. 0xFútbol transforms watchers into owners, redefining what it means to be a fútbol fan in the modern era. From watchers to owners The fútbol community is vast, yet fragmented. 0xFútbol’s mission is to bring it together by delivering engaging experiences that resonate with every fan. From games to tools, every product is a step toward building a thriving, interconnected community. 0xFútbol recently acquired MetaSoccer, the first fútbol manager game, and has been actively working to improve and expand its features. Now in its private beta phase, MetaSoccer has already captivated over 40,000 fans with its innovative approach to managing teams and competing using blockchain-based assets. Alongside MetaSoccer, 0xFútbol is developing additional products like Fútbol PM, a prediction market where fans can showcase their knowledge, and Wonderkid, a hyper-casual Telegram game designed for quick, competitive fun. Every new fan strengthens the community. With each voice added, the collective power of fútbol fans grows, paving the way to shake up the status quo. Together, 0xFútbol isn’t just building products—it’s building a movement. “Imagine millions of fútbol fans united in one ecosystem. The energy, the culture, the shared passion—this is the future 0xFútbol is building. It’s a future where fans actively shape the game they love, not just watch from the sidelines.” Says Agu Rodríguez, CEO. $FUTBOL Presale with XDC Network In a significant milestone, the XDC Network has joined 0xFútbol as a strategic investor, recognizing the platform’s potential to transform fútbol through blockchain. This partnership represents a major step forward in 0xFútbol’s journey to create a unified and interactive fútbol ecosystem. As part of this collaboration, 0xFútbol will host an exclusive presale for the XDC community starting on December 16th. This presale offers early supporters a chance to acquire the $FUTBOL token, which powers the entire 0xFútbol ecosystem. The $FUTBOL token is more than just a digital asset—it’s the backbone of the platform. It enables users to access key products like MetaSoccer and Fútbol PM, participate in governance, and unlock future opportunities as the ecosystem grows. With $FUTBOL, fans are empowered to move from spectatorship to ownership, shaping the future of fútbol while engaging with innovative products and experiences. This collaboration with XDC highlights the growing recognition of 0xFútbol’s potential to revolutionize how fútbol fans interact with the sport. By combining blockchain innovation with fútbol culture, 0xFútbol is positioning itself as a leader in the Web3 fútbol space. Join us now! Twitter | Website | Presale This article is published under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging program. Do your own research before making any financial decisions. For decades, fútbol’s ecosystem has upheld a status quo that leaves fans disconnected—without a voice, a stake, or a meaningful way to be part of the game they love. Despite fútbol’s global popularity, there has been no unified platform that truly empowers fans or brings them closer to the sport in transformative ways. Founded by visionary builders from Uruguay and Argentina, 0xFútbol is changing the game. By leveraging blockchain technology, they are creating a digital hub for the world’s 4 billion fútbol fans—a place where they can connect, compete, and even own a piece of fútbol’s future. 0xFútbol transforms watchers into owners, redefining what it means to be a fútbol fan in the modern era. From watchers to owners From watchers to owners The fútbol community is vast, yet fragmented. 0xFútbol’s mission is to bring it together by delivering engaging experiences that resonate with every fan. From games to tools, every product is a step toward building a thriving, interconnected community. 0xFútbol recently acquired MetaSoccer, the first fútbol manager game, and has been actively working to improve and expand its features. Now in its private beta phase, MetaSoccer has already captivated over 40,000 fans with its innovative approach to managing teams and competing using blockchain-based assets. Alongside MetaSoccer, 0xFútbol is developing additional products like Fútbol PM, a prediction market where fans can showcase their knowledge, and Wonderkid, a hyper-casual Telegram game designed for quick, competitive fun. Every new fan strengthens the community. With each voice added, the collective power of fútbol fans grows, paving the way to shake up the status quo. Together, 0xFútbol isn’t just building products—it’s building a movement. “Imagine millions of fútbol fans united in one ecosystem. The energy, the culture, the shared passion—this is the future 0xFútbol is building. It’s a future where fans actively shape the game they love, not just watch from the sidelines.” Says Agu Rodríguez, CEO. “Imagine millions of fútbol fans united in one ecosystem. The energy, the culture, the shared passion—this is the future 0xFútbol is building. It’s a future where fans actively shape the game they love, not just watch from the sidelines.” Says Agu Rodríguez, CEO. $FUTBOL Presale with XDC Network $FUTBOL Presale with XDC Network In a significant milestone, the XDC Network has joined 0xFútbol as a strategic investor, recognizing the platform’s potential to transform fútbol through blockchain. This partnership represents a major step forward in 0xFútbol’s journey to create a unified and interactive fútbol ecosystem. As part of this collaboration, 0xFútbol will host an exclusive presale for the XDC community starting on December 16th. This presale offers early supporters a chance to acquire the $FUTBOL token, which powers the entire 0xFútbol ecosystem. The $FUTBOL token is more than just a digital asset—it’s the backbone of the platform. It enables users to access key products like MetaSoccer and Fútbol PM, participate in governance, and unlock future opportunities as the ecosystem grows. With $FUTBOL, fans are empowered to move from spectatorship to ownership, shaping the future of fútbol while engaging with innovative products and experiences. This collaboration with XDC highlights the growing recognition of 0xFútbol’s potential to revolutionize how fútbol fans interact with the sport. By combining blockchain innovation with fútbol culture, 0xFútbol is positioning itself as a leader in the Web3 fútbol space. Join us now! Twitter | Website | Presale Twitter Twitter Website Website Presale Presale This article is published under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging program. Do your own research before making any financial decisions. This article is published under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging program. Do your own research before making any financial decisions. This article is published under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging program. Do your own research before making any financial decisions. Business Blogging Business Blogging

0xFútbol Announces Exclusive $FUTBOL Presale to Celebrate XDC’s Strategic Investment

أعلنت 0xFútbol عن طرح عرض حصري مسبق بقيمة $FUTBOL للاحتفال بالاستثمار الاستراتيجي لشركة XDC

0xFútbol ukax Exclusivo $FUTBOL Preventa ukar uñt’ayi, XDC ukan Inversión Estratégica ukar jach’añchañataki

0xFútbol, XDC-nin Strateji İnvestisiyasını qeyd etmək üçün Eksklüziv $FUTBOL Satışını Elan edir

0xFútbol обявява ексклузивна $FUTBOL предварителна продажба, за да отпразнува стратегическата инвестиция на XDC

0xFútbol anuncia preventa exclusiva de $FUTBOL para celebrar la inversión estratégica de XDC

0xFútbol annuncia la prevendita esclusiva di $FUTBOL per celebrare l'investimento strategico di XDC

0xFútbol、XDCの戦略的投資を記念して$FUTBOLの独占先行販売を発表

0xFútbol нь XDC-ийн стратегийн хөрөнгө оруулалтыг тохиолдуулан $FUTBOL-ийн онцгой хямдрал зарлалаа.

0xFútbol Mengumumkan Presale $FUTBOL Eksklusif untuk Meraikan Pelaburan Strategik XDC

0xFútbol XDC හි උපායමාර්ගික ආයෝජන සැමරීම සඳහා සුවිශේෂී $FUTBOL Presale නිවේදනය කරයි

0xFútbol shpall para-shitjen ekskluzive të $FUTBOL për të festuar investimin strategjik të XDC

I-0xFútbol Ibhengeza OkuKhethekileyo $FUTBOL Presale ukuBhiyozela uTyalo-mali oluBuchule lwe-XDC

Explainable AI Is Just Rebranding the Chaos, Not Solving It

Обяснимият AI просто ребрандира хаоса, а не го решава

La intel·ligència artificial explicable només està canviant el nom del caos, no solucionant-lo

La IA explicable solo cambia el nombre del caos, no lo resuelve

説明可能なAIは混乱を単に再ブランド化しているだけで、解決しているわけではない

ახსნადი ხელოვნური ინტელექტი მხოლოდ ქაოსის რებრენდინგია და არა მისი გადაჭრა

설명 가능한 AI는 혼란을 해결하는 것이 아니라 단지 혼란을 리브랜딩하는 것일 뿐입니다.

Uitlegbare AI is slechts een rebranding van de chaos, niet het oplossen ervan

د تشریح وړ AI یوازې د ګډوډۍ بیا نومول دي ، نه یې حل کوي

Explicable AI Chayqa Chaosta Rebrandinglla, Mana Allchaychu

Düşündirip boljak AI, bulam-bujarlygy çözmek däl

Açıklanabilir Yapay Zeka Kaosu Yeniden Markalaştırıyor, Çözmüyor

Штучний інтелект, який можна пояснити, лише ребрендингує хаос, а не вирішує його

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