Podcast Summary
Exploring Business Opportunities in Puerto Rico: Puerto Rico offers a talented workforce, competitive tax incentives, and a unique business environment. Consider it as a location for growth.
Puerto Rico is not just a tropical paradise, but also a thriving hub for innovation and business growth. The island offers a rich talent pool of highly skilled and bilingual individuals, as well as competitive tax incentives for businesses. Make Me Smart, supported by Invest Puerto Rico, encourages businesses to consider Puerto Rico as a viable location for growth. The team discussed the unique setup of their remote work during the holiday season, with some in the holiday spirit and others not. Despite the differences, they all agreed that everyone holidays in their own way. While Kimberly was having coffee during the Economics on Tap live stream, others like Ben Tolliday had set up their own studios for work. The team encourages businesses to explore the opportunities Puerto Rico has to offer and learn more at investpr.org/marketplace.
Rules for cocktail preparation vary based on ingredients: Gin-based cocktails like martinis should not be shaken, while other drinks can be shaken or stirred. Some people enjoyed a diverse range of cocktails at a recent gathering, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.
There are specific rules for cocktail preparation, such as shaking versus stirring, depending on the ingredients. For instance, gin-based cocktails like martinis should not be shaken as it may bruise the gin. Meanwhile, during a recent gathering, the group was enjoying a variety of beverages, from apple brandy concoctions to non-alcoholic creations like a "Change of Address" cocktail made with lemon juice, maple syrup, soy sauce, and Coca-Cola. Amidst the drinks and conversations, there was also news about the OPEC oil cartel's head expressing concerns over nations discussing a potential agreement to phase out fossil fuels at the UN Climate Summit.
Leadership and selflessness in addressing complex issues: Effective leadership involves making sacrifices for the greater good, such as addressing climate change, budget deficits, and social welfare issues through compromise and selflessness.
Effective leadership often requires individuals to make decisions or take actions that go against their self-interest for the greater good. This was highlighted in a discussion about OPEC's stance on oil production and the need to phase out fossil fuels for the planet's sake. The speaker also brought up the example of Social Security taxes, where those who make more money paying more taxes would help address the looming crisis. However, the current system, where only the first $168,600 of income is taxed, is seen as regressive and unfair by some. Ultimately, addressing complex issues like climate change, budget deficits, and social welfare requires compromise and selflessness. It's a reminder that sometimes, putting the collective interest above one's own can lead to positive outcomes.
FDA approves first gene therapies for sickle cell disease: Gene therapies using CRISPR technology approved for sickle cell disease, marking a major breakthrough, but concerns about cost and mistrust may impact access and uptake within the black community.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two gene therapies for sickle cell disease, marking a major breakthrough in treating this painful and debilitating condition that primarily affects the black community. The disease, which affects an estimated 100,000 people in the US, causes the body to produce flawed hemoglobin, impairing the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen efficiently. This can lead to a range of health issues, including premature death. The approval of these gene therapies, which utilize Nobel Prize-winning CRISPR gene editing technology, represents a significant step forward in treating sickle cell disease. However, there are concerns about the high cost of the treatments and historical medical mistrust within the black community, which may impact access and uptake. Overall, this is a cause for celebration, but it's important to acknowledge and address these challenges as the treatment is rolled out. For more context and perspectives, check out the articles linked in the show notes.
Record Sales with Buy Now, Pay Later During Cyber Monday: Buy now, pay later options saw record sales during Cyber Monday, benefiting some consumers but raising concerns for those living paycheck to paycheck
The use of buy now, pay later options saw record sales during Cyber Monday, totaling 940 billion dollars. While some see this as a positive sign of consumer spending, others, including the speaker, express concerns about potential financial strain for those living paycheck to paycheck. The speaker, who identifies as half empty, worries about the potential for these systems to become akin to payday loans for those with limited resources. However, they acknowledge the benefits for those who can manage their payments and avoid emergencies. The speaker also shares their opinions on other holiday-related topics, including white elephant gift parties, ugly sweaters, and inflatable yard decor, expressing a mix of half full and half empty perspectives. Overall, the speaker's tone is cautious and thoughtful, acknowledging the joy and excitement of the holiday season while also expressing concerns for those who may struggle financially during this time.
Holiday excitement and excess: decorating homes and office parties: Maintain balance during the holiday season by considering sustainable decorations and practicing self-control at office parties.
The holiday season brings various forms of excitement and excess, whether it's through decorating homes or attending office parties. For some, the joy comes from traditional decorations, while others prefer a more sustainable approach. Office holiday parties in places like DC can sometimes feel extravagant and jarring, especially when considering the economic realities faced by many. However, these events can also be enjoyable experiences, with opportunities to connect and unwind. Ultimately, it's essential to maintain self-control and common sense, especially when it comes to consuming alcohol.
Holiday office parties: Half full or half empty?: Despite differing opinions, holiday office parties remain a tradition for many, with some expressing enthusiasm and others skepticism. Reasons for skepticism include remote work, long distances, and potential for excessive drinking.
While some people look forward to holiday office parties and consider themselves "half full," many others view them with skepticism or even outright negativity, considering themselves "half empty." This was reflected in a poll during a recent episode of the podcast "Make Me Smart," with 55% of respondents indicating that they are not fond of holiday office parties. Reasons given included working remotely, living far from colleagues, and the potential for excessive drinking. Despite the divide, the podcast's hosts encouraged listeners to share their New Year's resolutions and creative drink ideas. The podcast will be taking a break for the rest of the year and will return with new episodes on January 8th, 2021.
Exploring kids' money questions through podcasts: Million Bazillion podcast educates kids about finance through real-life inquiries and exciting adventures
The Million Bazillion podcast from Marketplace is an excellent educational resource for answering complex money-related questions that kids may have. The podcast, which has won Webby awards, offers exciting adventures to help kids navigate the confusing world of finance. Each episode tackles real inquiries from kid listeners, addressing topics such as college accounts, unions, and even the purpose of Fort Knox and its gold reserves. By tuning in, parents can help their kids gain a better understanding of how money fits into the larger world around them. So, if you're looking for a fun and engaging way to help your kids grasp the intricacies of money, give Million Bazillion a listen. You can find it on your favorite podcast platform.
