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Text messages and private social media messages may feel personal—but they aren’t always private. In legal cases such as divorces, custody disputes, or criminal matters, these messages can become crucial evidence. So, can text messages be used in court? Yes. And depending on the content, they can carry significant weight. Courts Do Accept Text Messages as Evidence Courts often accept text messages and direct messages as evidence, provided they are both relevant and authenticated. In practice, this means proving who sent the message and that its content hasn’t been altered—which is why simple screenshots may not always be admissible. Authentication typically comes through witness testimony, phone records, or metadata. And if a person sent a message from their phone number and later acknowledges it, that message can carry significant weight in court. Private Messages Aren’t Always Protected Many people assume that private messages—whether on WhatsApp, Signal, or Facebook Messenger—are completely safe from court. That’s not the case. If one party legally obtains those messages, they can often be introduced as evidence. In family law disputes, for example, this commonly happens when a spouse has access to the other’s phone or shared cloud account. A message labeled “private” or sent through a secure app does not make it immune from use in legal proceedings. If you sent it, and it can be authenticated as coming from you, it may very well become part of the evidence. Deleted Messages Aren’t Always Gone Deleting a message doesn’t mean it’s gone for good. If the other party already saved a screenshot or downloaded the chat, it can still be used. Many apps also back up messages automatically to the cloud or a computer, and legal teams can subpoena those backups when necessary. In some cases, courts may even approve forensic analysis to recover deleted texts from phones—particularly in matters involving fraud, harassment, or other serious claims. Bottom line: sending a text and then trying to erase it rarely offers protection. Ninette Caneda Magna Legal Services https://magnals.com/

Preparing for the inevitable may sound daunting, but in reality, “getting your affairs in order” is less about death and more about living. It gives you clarity, security, and peace of mind. The law already has a plan for you if you fail to make one — but it might not be what you want. Many people hesitate at the thought of death or assume that planning is only for the elderly or wealthy. In truth, everyone benefits from making plans for the unexpected. Anyone over 18, anyone with a family, a business, or property should understand what happens after death and how their affairs will be handled. This post explores what “getting your affairs in order” really means, why it matters under the law, who should be involved, and when to start. What Does It Mean? Getting your affairs in order means organizing your  legal, financial, medical, and personal matters  so your wishes are clear and your loved ones are not left scrambling. Proper planning reduces conflict, protects your family, and minimizes costs later. This typically includes: Legal Affairs:  wills, trusts, powers of attorney, guardianship, and other estate/business documents. Financial Affairs:  bank accounts, property deeds, retirement accounts, debts, insurance. Medical Affairs:  advance directives, healthcare surrogates, HIPAA authorizations. Personal & Digital Affairs:  online accounts, family records, and instructions for sentimental items. Common Misconceptions “I’m too young to worry about this.”  Accidents and illnesses can happen at any time. “I don’t have enough money to need a plan.”  Even modest estates need direction to avoid probate complications. In Florida, probate is an actual court proceeding (Chapter 733) that can be costly, time-consuming, and public. Having a will or trust in place saves both money and stress. Without a plan, your estate will pass under intestate succession laws (Chapter 732), which often divide property in unintended ways. Why It Matters Peace of Mind  – Enforceable documents under state law ensure your wishes are honored. In Florida, wills must be signed and witnessed correctly (F.S. § 732.502). Reduced Stress for Family  – Without a healthcare surrogate, medical decisions may fall to a court-appointed guardian (F.S. § 765.401). Efficiency and Savings  – Trusts under the Florida Trust Code (Chapter 736) can bypass probate entirely. Intestacy guarantees probate court involvement and added expense. Legacy Beyond Property  – Legal planning is also an opportunity to leave ethical wills, letters, or oral histories for your family. When to Start? The safest answer is  now . Life events that should trigger planning or updates include: Marriage or divorce (F.S. § 732.507(2)) Birth or adoption of a child Acquisition of property Changes in health A review every 3–5 years ensures your documents reflect current law and life circumstances. Who Should Be Involved? Estate Planning Attorney  – Drafts and ensures enforceability. Financial Advisor / CPA  – Coordinates tax and financial matters. Healthcare Providers  – Help you understand advance directive implications. Family or Trusted Friends  – May be named as personal representatives, trustees, or guardians. Checklist: Getting Started Inventory assets, debts, and insurance. Identify trusted decision-makers (guardians, trustees, healthcare surrogates). Write down family contacts. Execute key documents: will, durable power of attorney, advance directives. Store originals securely. Communicate your plan to family. Schedule a consultation with an estate planning attorney. Conclusion Getting your affairs in order is not just about preparing for death; it’s about living with security and clarity. Without direction, children can be left vulnerable, assets can be lost to creditors, families can fall into disputes, and businesses may be disrupted. By acting now, you protect your loved ones from confusion, conflict, and unnecessary court involvement. Florida law provides a default plan, but it is rarely the right one for your family. With a plan of your own, you live each day with the peace of knowing your wishes will be honored tomorrow. Terra Sickler Attorney; Twig, Trade, & Tribunal, PLLC twiglaw.com

Life is our most epic adventure. The experiences we have, the people we meet, the hurdles thrown into our path — all are part of our journey. We dream about who we want to become, the places we’ll travel, and the milestones we’ll reach. But rarely do we stop to think about Death. Usually, we avoid it. It’s scary. It’s sad. It feels unwelcome. Death is often associated with fear. But aren’t we supposed to face our fears? Facing Death Instead of Fearing It Death is inevitable. None of us are getting out of here alive. So what if, instead of fearing it, we welcomed it? What if by acknowledging it, we could live more fully? By facing Death directly, we release the hold that fear has on us and give ourselves permission to live Life to the fullest. The Purpose of This Series This six-part series provides a roadmap for getting your “house” and affairs in order — legally, financially, medically, and digitally. Whether you’re 18 or 70, planning ahead creates peace of mind for you and for your loved ones. Each post will explore the what, who, when, and why of organizing life’s most important matters, with guidance from legal and financial authorities. Why Planning for Death is Really About Life Before diving into the practical steps, let’s reframe the conversation: Preparing for Death is not about fear — it’s about freedom. By planning ahead, you remove uncertainty and anxiety. What may feel like a grim exercise can actually be one of the most life-affirming things you ever do. It ensures your love, values, and intentions endure. It allows you to live each moment more fully. It frees you to focus on the “right nows” instead of the “what-ifs.” Your 700,000 Hours On average, each of us is given about 700,000 hours of life (79.9 years). The question is: how many of those will you spend simply existing, sleeping, or leaving things to fate — and how many will you spend truly living? By facing Death with clarity, we give ourselves the best possible chance to make the most of Life. Terra Sickler Attorney; Twig, Trade, & Tribunal, PLLC twiglaw.com

Peak-End Rule:  the idea that people don’t remember an experience in its entirety. Instead, they recall the emotional high points (“peaks”) and how it ended. During event design, this insight is gold. It tells us that no matter how flawless our run-of-show is, if we miss the opportunity to elevate the emotional high points and create a strong, intentional ending, we leave our attendees with a flat memory. And in a business where repeat attendance, referrals, and brand advocacy are the ultimate metrics, memory matters. But after years of producing events, I’ve found that the Peak-End Rule, while powerful, doesn’t capture the whole picture. Which is why I started using what I call The Box Rule . What is The Box Rule? Imagine your event as a box; a container that shapes the entire attendee experience. In the Box Rule, we don’t just focus on peaks and endings. We intentionally design four touch points  that shape memory and emotional connection: The Beginning  – The first impression that sets the tone. The Peak  – The highest emotional moment of the event. The End  – The final note that sends people away inspired, energized, or fulfilled. The Valley  – The moment most likely to drop energy or engagement (and the plan to minimize or transform it). The first three map closely to the Peak-End Rule, but the fourth — the Valley — is the game-changer. All events have natural ebbs and flows in energy. Identifying and addressing the low points ensures you don’t lose momentum or attention before the peak or the close. Applying the Box Rule in Practice Let’s break it down with a real-world example: The Beginning : At a corporate sales summit, you can transform the first impression into a full-sensory welcome  that makes attendees feel like VIPs the moment they arrive. Imagine stepping into a space where the entryway is washed in your brand colors, an immersive light display pulses in sync with upbeat live music, and the scent of fresh citrus or florals drifts through the air. Interactive digital check-in kiosks greet each guest by name, while roaming brand ambassadors offer a signature welcome beverage in a custom glass they can keep. A curated welcome gift, thoughtfully packaged and themed to the event, is waiting at their seat, sparking curiosity about what’s to come. The Peak : This is often the main stage reveal, a big announcement, or a keynote speaker, but you can push it further. Imagine that the lights dim, and the audience slips on lightweight AR glasses handed to them minutes earlier. The product materializes in their field of vision, surrounded by a virtual world showing its impact. Data points explode into constellations, customer testimonials appearing as lifelike holograms at their side. As the music swells, the AR scene fades, and the actual product is revealed on stage, seamlessly transitioning from the digital to the physical. The End : Rather than letting the closing session be a logistical wrap-up, we turned it into an intentional experience that has staying power. Imagine the house lights dim and a single spotlight illuminates the stage. Instead of a traditional emcee, a series of short, heartfelt stories from attendees plays on screen, filmed candidly during the event. They share what they learned, who they met, and how they’ve been inspired. The final clip transitions seamlessly into a live moment: one of those attendees walks out, joined by others, to lead a unified pledge or toast to the community’s next chapter. The audience joins in, raising glasses, lighting phone flashlights, or even signing their names on a shared digital “commitment wall” displayed in real time. The event ends with a collective feeling that lingers long after the doors close. The Valley : At multi-day conferences, the post-lunch slot on day two is almost always a valley. As the lights fade after lunch, the room is suddenly filled with an ambient hum. Large LED walls ignite with a dynamic visual countdown, and an emcee announces a rapid-fire “Innovation Sprint.” Attendees are given tablets or connected to an app where they vote, answer live polls, and collaborate with others in real time on a creative challenge. Their collective input drives a giant, evolving visual on the main screen. Just as the final results lock in, the app reveals an animated teaser for what’s coming next in the event, tying the valley break into the overall narrative. Why the Box Rule Works The Box Rule is about designing memory anchors . The beginning  sets expectations. The peak  creates the story attendees will retell. The end  cements how they’ll describe the experience afterward. Managing the valley  prevents an avoidable dip from coloring the entire memory. When you plan with these four touchpoints in mind, you’re intentionally shaping their experience to be memorable from the jump. How to Start Using the Box Rule Today Map your event flow  and mark where you think the beginning, peak, end, and valley occur. Ask your team  to imagine those moments from the attendee perspective. What will they see, hear, and feel? Design enhancements  for each moment that reflect your brand and your purpose for the event. Have a valley plan . This could be surprise content, an interactive format, or simply a shift in pacing. Final Thought If you want your event to be remembered, talked about, and acted on long after it’s over, you have to design these moments with intention. And when you do, you create experiences that live well beyond the closing session. EJ Corporan Experience Design & Client Strategy; L!VE Www.gowithlive.com

Marketing has always evolved alongside culture. From the rise of mass advertising to the digital revolution, every era has had its signature approach. In 2025, a new movement is gaining momentum—Vibe Marketing. Unlike traditional strategies rooted purely in data and analytics, Vibe Marketing starts with an emotional “vibe” or cultural mood. It’s less about crunching numbers and more about asking:  What does this moment feel like?  And thanks to AI, those ideas can now be transformed into fully realized campaigns almost instantly. What Is Vibe Marketing? At its core, Vibe Marketing is about leading with emotion before metrics. It’s a creative-first approach where campaigns are designed around cultural energy, aesthetics, and mood. Instead of starting with spreadsheets or market analysis, brands begin with intuition, creativity, and resonance. For example, a brand may capture the nostalgic humor of “millennial cringe,” the aspirational energy of Gen Z aesthetics, or the warmth of seasonal moments like back-to-school or fall gatherings. The emphasis is on  feeling first, data second. This doesn’t mean ignoring analytics—it means balancing them with artistry. Data ensures execution is effective, but vibe ensures it’s memorable. Why Vibe Marketing Matters The marketing landscape has become saturated with formulaic content. Audiences scroll past ads that feel robotic, predictable, or overly polished. Consumers, especially Gen Z, are increasingly seeking campaigns that feel authentic, raw, and in-the-moment. Vibe Marketing resonates because it: Connects emotionally:  It taps into moods and aesthetics that audiences recognize and respond to. Moves at cultural speed:  AI tools can instantly turn an idea into content, allowing brands to keep up with rapidly changing trends. Humanizes brands:  By prioritizing emotion, campaigns feel less like ads and more like cultural participation. This matters now because attention spans are shrinking, and cultural conversations shift daily. Brands that can  vibe with the moment  stay relevant. Those that can’t risk feeling outdated. Why It’s Being Talked About Widely So why is everyone in marketing buzzing about this trend? A few reasons stand out: The AI Factor  – Technology has caught up with creativity. What once took weeks of production can now be executed in hours or minutes. That speed makes mood-driven campaigns possible. Cultural Shifts  – Audiences are moving away from polished perfection. They prefer campaigns that mirror the emotional complexity of real life—nostalgia, humor, irony, or collective excitement. The Search for Differentiation  – With so many brands competing for digital attention, data-driven sameness no longer cuts through. Vibe Marketing offers a fresh way to stand out. Because of these factors, Vibe Marketing isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a reflection of where marketing is heading. It’s being discussed across agencies, publications, and C-suites as both an opportunity and a challenge. Final Thought From my perspective, Vibe Marketing represents a necessary course correction. For too long, the industry has relied almost exclusively on data as the north star. But marketing is ultimately about people, and people respond to feelings first. At Fifth & Cor, we’ve seen firsthand how Vibe Marketing unlocks deeper brand resonance by combining cultural intuition with innovative execution. It’s this balance—data-informed but emotion-led—that keeps campaigns relevant and human. By embracing vibes—whether cultural moods, seasonal aesthetics, or emotional truths—brands can create campaigns that resonate far beyond the numbers. And with AI enabling faster execution, this trend is not just gaining momentum; it’s setting the stage for the future of creative strategy. Robin Dimond CEO & Founder; Fifth & Cor https://www.fifthandcor.com/

A common phrase tossed around in the corporate world is  “we are a family.”  While the sentiment may be well-intentioned, the reality is that companies are not like families—they are more like sports teams. Family vs. Team Families are emotionally driven. You don’t get to choose your family members; you’re born into a hierarchy of parents, siblings, and relatives. Families emphasize unconditional belonging and often prioritize keeping the peace. Teams, on the other hand, are goal-focused. You are brought in to do a specific job, roles shift based on skills, and if you’re not contributing to the team’s success—you’re out. Where the Phrase Went Wrong When “we’re like a family” first started appearing in the workplace, it was meant to be positive—a way to signal loyalty, belonging, and care for employees. But loyalty and belonging are not exclusive to families. Teams also thrive on these qualities, arguably even more so, because nothing unites people like a shared mission. The difference lies in accountability. In families, belonging is unconditional. If one member isn’t pulling their weight, others often compensate. In teams, accountability ensures every member contributes their skills toward the common goal. The Role of the Leader The job of a leader—or coach—isn’t to be the smartest person in the room. It’s to find the smartest people, bring them together, and give them the tools to become a high-functioning, winning team. As legendary basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski once said: “I get a group of people who are talented to commit to excellence and to work together as one. That’s where it starts. Different talents, same commitment.” Companies operate the same way. They are groups of talented individuals, each with a specific role, working together to accomplish a goal and outperform the competition. Hiring with the Team in Mind Whether you’re filling a new role or replacing someone, take time to study your current team. What are their strengths and weaknesses? What technical and soft skills does the new hire need? How will this person elevate the group? This clarity moves you past generic interview questions and instead helps you determine whether a candidate truly strengthens the team. For deeper insights into leadership and team-building, two excellent reads are: The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership  by John C. Maxwell Leading with the Heart  by Donald T. Phillips and Mike Krzyzewski The Bottom Line Building companies around the idea of “family” can blur boundaries, reduce accountability, and foster misplaced loyalty. Building companies around the principles of  teams  creates a culture of shared responsibility, performance, and growth. At the end of the day, successful organizations aren’t families—they’re teams. And the best leaders are coaches who know how to bring people together, inspire commitment, and position their players to succeed. Lauren Fernandez CoFounder & National Director of Recruitment; Palm Coast Staffing https://palmcoaststaffing.com/

When it’s time to sell, many homeowners wonder: Should I invest in upgrades before hitting the market? The truth is, not every project pays off. The key is knowing what makes dollar sense —improvements that give you the best return without draining your wallet. Upgrades That Usually Pay Off Fresh Paint (Neutral Tones) Low cost, high impact. A fresh coat instantly brightens the home and appeals to the widest pool of buyers. Curb Appeal Touch-Ups Landscaping, mulch, trimmed bushes, and a clean front door make the first impression count. Minor Kitchen & Bath Refreshes Think new cabinet hardware, updated light fixtures, or re-caulking showers. These small changes modernize without full remodel costs. Flooring Repairs Fixing cracked tiles, replacing worn carpet, or polishing hardwood floors signals a well-maintained home. Upgrades That Rarely Pay Off Major Kitchen or Bathroom Remodels Buyers may prefer to choose their own style. Expensive renovations often don’t recoup the investment. Luxury Additions (Pools, High-End Appliances, Smart Home Systems) While appealing to some, they don’t boost value enough to justify the expense for most sellers. Room Conversions Turning a garage into a gym or a bedroom into an office may actually shrink your buyer pool. Bottom Line When preparing to sell, think return on investment, not personal taste. The smartest upgrades are the ones that make your home look fresh, well-kept, and move-in ready without breaking the bank. A buyer walking through your home isn’t focused on whether you installed the latest luxury appliances—they’re asking: “Does this home feel clean, well-maintained, and worth the asking price?” Simple, affordable fixes—like fresh paint, modern lighting, and tidy landscaping—go a long way toward answering that question with a resounding yes. On the other hand, pouring tens of thousands into a dream kitchen or high-end features often benefits the next owner more than you. The goal isn’t to create a “perfect” home. It’s to create a home that looks its best, appeals to the widest audience, and allows buyers to picture themselves living there. In real estate, that’s what makes true dollar sense. Carlos M Gutierrez Realtor; Carlos M Gutierrez

The environmental consulting field is often overlooked when it comes to AI adoption, with most attention focused on industries like sales, marketing, and customer support. With years of hands-on experience in environmental consulting, I’ve seen countless workflows still handled manually that could benefit greatly from AI. This disconnect presents an enormous opportunity to modernize the field and empower consultants to work more efficiently. Why AI is a Perfect Fit for Environmental Consulting Environmental consulting is a detail-heavy industry that demands accuracy and compliance with strict regulations. At the same time, many processes—such as data entry and report writing—are repetitive and time-consuming. AI can take on this “busy work,” ensuring consistency while freeing consultants to focus on providing expert insights. By integrating AI, firms can streamline operations, increase value to clients, and reduce employee burnout. Here are three practical ways AI can make a real impact in environmental consulting: 1. Generating Pack Lists for Field Projects Preparing for fieldwork often requires hours of planning and double-checking equipment lists. By training an AI agent on a company’s various types of field jobs and the equipment needed for each one, consultants can automate this process and drastically reduce mistakes. For example: Air Emissions Testing (AET)  requires specialized sensors, calibration equipment, gas cylinders, and safety gear. A  Phase II investigation  might require soil and groundwater sampling kits, PID, or soil vapor canisters. An AI-powered system can quickly generate tailored pack lists based on the job scope, saving time and reducing the risk of leaving crucial equipment behind. 2. AI Support for Environmental Compliance Hazardous waste managers and other compliance professionals are constantly navigating evolving environmental regulations and complex permits. A unique service that environmental consultants can now offer is an AI compliance agent, trained on the client’s specific operations, permits, and regulations. For example, a facility managing multiple hazardous waste streams could use the AI to: Confirm correct labeling Ensure storage times meet EPA requirements Check reporting deadlines This agent could act as a 24/7 resource for basic compliance questions, allowing consultants to focus on higher-level issues. It saves time for consultants while also providing clients with an added layer of support. 3. Automating Phase I ESA Report Writing Phase I Environmental Site Assessments are known for their labor-intensive historical review process. Analyzing environmental database listings, property details, FOIA responses, aerial photographs, Sanborn maps, and topographic maps consumes the majority of a consultant’s time. An AI agent can be especially helpful here, taking on the bulk of repetitive work so consultants can focus on expert analysis. At generAIt Solutions, we are on a mission to automate these sections of the report. Our Phase I Agent is already tackling this challenge by automating database review sections, dramatically reducing the time needed to prepare reports. Looking Ahead AI has the potential to transform environmental consulting by automating repetitive tasks, enhancing accuracy, and freeing consultants to focus on providing valuable expertise. From fieldwork preparation to compliance support and report writing, AI agents are poised to become essential tools for consultants and their clients. With innovations like our  Phase I Agent , we are taking the first steps toward a future where environmental consultants can focus more on their expertise and less on tedious busywork. If you’re an environmental consultant or firm interested in exploring how AI can streamline your workflow, visit generAIt Solutions to learn more. Together, we can shape the future of environmental consulting. Marco Fiorante generAIt Solutions https://generaitsolutions.com/

If you’ve ever scanned a contract and glossed over the “indemnification” clause, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most misunderstood—and potentially dangerous—provisions in business agreements. Whether you’re signing a client’s contract or drafting your own using a DIY template or AI tool, it’s critical to understand what indemnity means and how it can shift serious legal and financial risk. In this article, I’ll break down indemnification in plain English, explain common pitfalls, and share what business owners need to consider before agreeing to—or imposing—these terms. What Is Indemnification? At its core, indemnification is a promise to protect someone from harm or loss. In contracts, it usually means one party agrees to cover the other party’s costs if a specific type of legal claim arises. For example: "Party A agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Party B from any and all claims, damages, and liabilities arising out of..." Translation: If something goes wrong and a third party sues Party B, Party A has to cover the damages (money awarded in the lawsuit)—often including legal fees. That sounds straightforward, but here’s the kicker: indemnity clauses are rarely that simple. They're often overly broad, poorly worded, or copied from contracts that don't fit the particular needs of the transaction or client. Why It Matters Agreeing to indemnify another party means you could be financially responsible for legal claims you didn't directly cause. Depending on the language, that could include: - Lawsuits by third parties - Employee misconduct - Intellectual property infringement - Breach of contract or negligence Indemnification can also mean paying for someone else’s attorney's fees—even if you’re not at fault. I've seen business owners unknowingly agree to cover deep six-figure litigation costs because they didn’t understand what they were agreeing to. Key Questions to Ask Before Signing 1. What exactly am I indemnifying? Make sure the scope is crystal clear. Is it limited to your own misconduct, or does it extend to issues you can’t control (like a subcontractor’s mistake or a client’s misuse of your product or misuse of intellectual property)? 2. Is the indemnity mutual or one-sided? Often, one party has all the protection, while the other assumes all the risk. If you're providing services or licensing IP, it may make sense to give some indemnity—but ask for one in return, especially if you're relying on the client's team or data. 3. Are there limitations or exclusions? Well-drafted indemnity clauses will often include carve-outs—such as excluding indemnity if the other party is negligent or if the damages are indirect or unforeseeable. 4. Who controls the defense? If you’re indemnifying someone, do you get to control the legal defense—or do they? If they choose their own attorney and strategy without your input, you could be stuck footing the bill for a legal mess you don’t control. 5. Are you insurable for the risks you’re taking on? If your indemnity obligations go beyond what your insurance covers, your business or even your own personal assets could be exposed. Drafting Indemnification Clauses in DIY Contracts If you’re using a template or AI-generated agreement, be extra cautious about indemnity language. Many generic templates use broad, one-size-fits-all indemnity clauses that don’t reflect the real-world risks of your specific business. Tips for safer drafting: - Hire a lawyer. If you’re entering into a major deal, working with a new client or vendor, or seeing unfamiliar language in the contract, don’t go it alone. - Make sure the scope of the indemnity clause is narrow. - Avoid circular or unclear language. Final Thought You don’t need to be a lawyer to protect your business—but you do need to understand the basic risks in the contracts you sign. And indemnity is one of the biggest. If you’re not sure what you’re agreeing to, don’t guess. The cost of not knowing is usually far greater than the cost of asking for help. Need help reviewing a contract or making sense of an indemnity clause? I’m happy to take a look. Just reach out. Danielle Dudai Attorney; DUDAI LEGAL https://www.dudai.legal

Q4 isn’t just about budgets and wrap-up reports. It’s about asking the harder questions that reveal the true impact of your brand. For over 24 years, I’ve worked with multi-national corporations, startups, and small businesses. Across every industry — from military and automotive to healthcare, hospitality, and everything in between — I’ve seen a common misconception: Printing and branding are often treated as expenses, not investments. But here’s the truth: every touchpoint you create — signage, collateral, branded experiences — either adds to your bottom line or takes away from it. The real question leaders should be asking as we close the year is: “How much did our printing and branding make us this year?” At SG INK, we look at ROI in two ways: Return on Investment — measurable revenue, conversions, and brand recognition generated by your print and branding. Return on Involvement — the less obvious, but equally powerful, results: community engagement, trust, employee pride, and loyalty built through consistent brand experiences that keep your business involved. And here’s the good news: it’s never too late to impart KPIs like this. Sometimes it’s the smallest 1% shifts in your language that ensure your messaging truly lands. Sometimes it’s the decision to have fun with your brand tweaks that sparks unexpected momentum. These micro-adjustments aren’t just about meeting goals — they can be the reason you surpass them. Especially when your branding and printing are designed not just to look good, but to convert. Branding, marketing, and printing work best when they aren’t seen as a cost to cut, but as an ecosystem of investments designed to grow with you. That’s the perspective I share not just through SG INK, but also as a Thought Leader with The Cor Collective. Because in the end, alignment isn’t just about strategy. It’s about results. So I’ll leave you with this: As you close out Q4, can you confidently measure the impact your branding and printing made on your business this year? Sam Ghanem CEO / Co-Founder SG INK / Let’s Go 180° #TheCorCollective #SGINK #LetsGo180 #ThoughtLeadership #ROI

How often do we feel unheard? How many times have you had to repeat yourself whether at a doctor’s office, with an advisor, or in a meeting, just to feel like your concerns mattered? I see it all across social media: adults sharing stories of having to fight to be listened to. At the end of the day, we are our own biggest advocate. And nowhere is that truer than when it comes to our financial lives. Think about those moments when life suddenly shifts. Maybe it’s the stress of a job that becomes too much to bear, leaving you wondering if you can walk away. Or the heartbreak of a divorce that leaves you uncertain about the future. In times like these, financial clarity can make the difference between feeling trapped and feeling empowered. At WiseOak, when we talk about financial freedom and financial independence with clients, it’s always in this context: giving you the ability to navigate change on your own terms. And life changes, whether expected or sudden, joyful or painful, almost always come with financial implications. Learning how to advocate for yourself during these times is one of the most powerful ways to create stability and resilience. 1. Pause and Listen to Yourself Advocacy begins with listening. This means listening to your emotions, your needs, and your reality. After a big change, it’s tempting to rush into decisions, but often the most powerful thing you can do is pause. Take time to take inventory: What accounts, assets, and debts are in your name? What bills or financial obligations are urgent, and which can wait? Are there benefits, entitlements, or resources now available to you (such as Social Security survivor benefits, spousal support, or employer benefits)? Listening to where you truly stand gives you the clarity you need to speak up effectively. 2. Name What Matters Most After life changes, your priorities may shift. What mattered before may not be what matters most now. Ask yourself: What do I need most right now? Financial freedom and independence look different for everyone. For some, it’s the space to step away from work and focus on healing. For others, it’s the independence to leave an unhealthy relationship, or the flexibility to invest in opportunities that truly align with their values. Naming your priorities makes it easier to advocate for them, with family, with lenders, with employers, or even with yourself. 3. Speak Clearly in Negotiations Many people hesitate to advocate for themselves in financial conversations because it feels uncomfortable. But speaking up is an act of self-respect. Whether you’re renegotiating a loan, asking for workplace flexibility, or navigating a divorce settlement, remember: Prepare by gathering the facts. Speak with kindness, but also clarity. Understand that you are not asking for charity, you are asking for fairness. When your voice is steady and clear, others are more likely to listen. 4. Update the Systems That Speak for You Sometimes your documents, policies, and plans speak on your behalf, especially when you can’t. After a major life change, it’s important to make sure those “systems” reflect your current reality. That means reviewing: Insurance policies – Do your beneficiaries and coverage still fit your needs? Estate planning documents – Does your will, trust, or power of attorney align with your wishes? Emergency savings – Do you have the cushion that allows you to breathe more easily? When these tools are updated, they become advocates for your future self. 5. Surround Yourself with Voices That Support You You’ve probably heard the phrase “it takes a village.” Often, it’s said about raising a child, but I believe it applies just as much to navigating life changes. None of us are meant to go through these moments entirely on our own, and the same is true when it comes to financial advocacy. Surrounding yourself with the right people can make all the difference. That might mean: A financial advisor who listens deeply and explains without jargon. An attorney who protects your interests with clarity. Trusted friends or family who can provide perspective when emotions feel overwhelming. Financial freedom and independence don’t come from shouldering everything alone. They come from knowing you have a village, a circle of trusted voices, who support you, respect your values, and empower you to move forward with confidence. Final Thoughts Life changes will look different for everyone. Advocating for yourself financially is an act of self-care. It’s not selfish—it’s essential. By pausing to listen, naming your priorities, and surrounding yourself with the right support, you create a foundation that allows you not only to weather change but to thrive through it. At WiseOak, we walk alongside clients during these seasons. And when we talk about what’s next, it’s always with this in mind: ensuring that your voice is heard, your values are respected, and your future is truly your own. Nicole Carlon Financial Advisor; Wise Oak Wealth www.wiseoakwealth.com

Marketing strategy sessions aren’t just another item on the to-do list—they’re a critical part of building a sustainable, scalable business. Whether you’re a startup founder or leading an established brand, making time for regular marketing strategy meetings can be the difference between growth and stagnation. In today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world, it’s not enough to throw content into the void and hope for engagement. Businesses need clarity, intention, and adaptability—and strategy sessions provide just that. One of the biggest mistakes companies make is treating marketing like a sprint when it's actually a marathon. A marketing strategy session brings your team together to pause, reassess, and align. It's a chance to zoom out from the day-to-day execution and look at the bigger picture—what's working, what’s not, and where to pivot. By investing this time regularly, businesses can spot trends early, take advantage of market shifts, and make sure every campaign ladders up to a larger goal. The power of alignment through strategy sessions When your marketing team, leadership, and key stakeholders are aligned, everything flows more effectively—from creative development to budget allocation. Without clear strategy discussions, marketing often becomes reactive instead of proactive. Team members may work in silos, duplicating efforts or missing key opportunities. Strategy sessions foster cross-functional communication, ensuring that everyone understands the brand direction, priorities, and intended outcomes. More than just alignment, these sessions also build accountability. They provide regular check-ins on KPIs and progress, creating a rhythm that keeps projects moving forward. Having a consistent space for discussion means challenges get addressed early, wins are celebrated more often, and the entire team can stay focused on what matters most. Why a marketing strategy session matters for long-term planning Marketing strategy sessions aren’t just about solving immediate problems—they’re about future-proofing your business. These meetings help you map out campaigns, allocate resources effectively, and keep your content calendar aligned with company goals. They allow you to revisit your brand positioning and competitive advantages as the market evolves. By reviewing data together, you can identify what channels are producing the highest ROI and which efforts need to be reevaluated. This long-term thinking prevents wasted budget and burnout. It ensures your business isn’t just reacting to trends but intentionally building momentum. Plus, regular strategy sessions provide the space to brainstorm, collaborate, and innovate—something that often gets lost in the rush of daily execution. SEO keyword spotlight: marketing strategy sessions The phrase marketing strategy sessions  isn’t just an internal meeting title—it’s also a highly searchable keyword that entrepreneurs, marketing leaders, and consultants are looking up daily. From “how to run a marketing strategy session” to “why you need a marketing strategy session,” the search intent is clear: people are seeking guidance on how to bring more structure and clarity to their marketing efforts. At Fifth & Cor, we’ve seen firsthand how transformative these sessions can be. As a marketing and innovation company, we help brands across industries translate high-level vision into actionable roadmaps—grounded in strategy, backed by data, and ready to scale. Conclusion At its core, a marketing strategy session is about making space for clarity. It’s where your vision becomes a plan, your plan becomes action, and your team becomes unified. In a world full of noise, these sessions give you the focus and confidence to move forward with purpose. Whether you run them quarterly, monthly, or bi-weekly, their impact compounds over time. If you want smarter marketing, stronger collaboration, and sustainable business growth, start with strategy—and if you’re ready for a partner who can help make that happen, Fifth & Cor is here to lead the way. Robin Dimond CEO & Founder; Fifth & Cor https://www.fifthandcor.com/