After many years of ideas, visions, dreams, & hard word, we opened our own Studio!!
Let me introduce you to True Training Studio right here in Bristol, Rhode Island.
I honestly can’t believe we’re already 2 months in as time is truly flying by (especially when you’re having fun).
We’ve put literal blood, sweat, tears, and hard work into this space and it wouldn’t even be a thing without my amazing husband, clients, friends, & family that have truly supported us along the way.
Not sure they even realize how truly thankful I am for each and every one of them.
If you’ve been a long time reader of my blog, you’ll know that I’ve always signed off at the end of each post with “be true to you” as “sincerely, Kasey” always felt a bit too formal for me.
The word true has always been something I’ve come back to whenever I feel like I might be doubting myself or doubting a decision….just come back to what feels “true” to me.
When it came to naming my studio, I had played around with so many different names and one day in the car with Corey I said out loud “True Training Studio” and we both looked at each other like yeah, that’s it.
We started putting the studio together, piece by piece, in July and opened our doors August 14, 2023.
(Outfitted in the best: adidas sneakers for on my feet all day, shorts, & crop tank).
To say this has been a full circle moment, is just the short version of this meant to be story.
When we moved to Rhode Island in 2015, I remember Corey and I saying “oh we’ll just be there for a few years and come back” but we quickly fell in love with the state, the people, and the small town community so having a “home” here just feels right.
As a Personal Trainer, you learn to be creative with whatever space you’re given. I’ve taught classes in parks, basements (thanks, Dana!), backyards, streets, driveways, over zoom, facetime, & in many gyms throughout the years.
Every single one of those sessions was a stepping stone towards one day having a space to call my own.
At the studio we offer Personal Training, Buddy Training, Large Group Training, Small Group Training, Youth Athlete Strength & Conditioning, Group Fitness Classes, Fuel Coaching,Physical Therapy, Massage, & more!
Photos by Mikayla Pushor
I couldn’t be more excited to keep this journey going and can’t wait to see what another 8 years looks like surrounded by the most amazing clients and community.
If there’s one thing I can say to hopefully inspire someone else is to take the leap scared.
(Slightly obsessed with this jacket to throw on to and from the studio).
You’re never going to feel “fully ready” or “fully prepared” to make a big change and there will be days of anxiety (many days lol) and doubt, but at the end of the night, you do the best you can, and I swear things flow into place.
Thank you all for always being a continued source of space that I can share my wins, struggles, and stories.
Every business owner knows cash is king. But many find themselves on the back foot managing their cash flow just to keep their head above water.
What if you have growth ambitions? How do you set the business up financially to make strategic investments or seize opportunities?
Educate yourself. It is not enough to say, “oh, my accountant does it.” No matter how much we value their input, it is really up to us. Only we can make the decisions of how we allocate cash (and time) to what projects.
Make sure you take advantage of the myriad of courses available for you to skill yourself up and become cash flow confident.
What does it mean to becoming cashflow ‘confident’?
An understanding of cash flow
Knowing where your cash is
Channelling the cash appropriately to extract the best value
Your time (and energy) are as important. Keep your eye on the big picture and make sure you’re investing your own time where it has the most impact. Perhaps you could think of this a ‘ROTI’ (Return on Time Invested)
You have probably heard of the adage, “work on the business, not ‘in’ it.” But what should you do when you find yourself on the treadmill?
I often say, you know, who owns your business? Do you own the business or does it own you? And if it owns you, it’s really time to have a talk to yourself.
By channelling your cash into operations or investment, you can choose who and what time to make available.
These choices enable you to outsource the elements of your business that you loathe and assist you to focus on the ones you love where time is money and money is time.
I’ve got a lot more to say on this topic. You can dig deeper with this recent video interview I did with Airwallex. I hope these insights work as well for you as they did for me.
The announcement we made at Cisco Live represents Cisco’s most significant networking innovation in a decade—and the biggest partner opportunity we’ve seen in just as long.
The Network Reality Customers Can’t Ignore
Today’s enterprise networks are being pushed to their limits—not just by what’s coming, but by what’s already here. As organizations rely more heavily on bandwidth-intensive, latency-sensitive applications like real-time collaboration, ERP, and CRM, performance expectations are rising fast. At the same time, AI workloads are introducing entirely new demands: bursty, unpredictable traffic patterns and massive east-west data flows that legacy infrastructure simply wasn’t built to handle.
This dual pressure—optimizing the performance of critical business applications now while preparing for the exponential demands of AI—is creating a strategic inflection point. And with many customers nearing end-of-service on key networking components, the urgency to modernize is real.
For our partners, this moment presents a unique opportunity: to help customers evolve from infrastructure that’s struggling to keep up, to a future-ready foundation that delivers today and scales effortlessly for tomorrow.
Beyond Hardware: Complete Architecture Sales
What makes this announcement different is architectural completeness. While competitors focus on individual components, Cisco is delivering the full solution: next-generation hardware powered by our Silicon One technology, AI-driven management, built-in quantum-ready security, and end-to-end visibility with embedded ThousandEyes.
For partners, this means you’re not just selling switches and routers anymore. You’re selling business transformation. You’re offering the foundation that enables AI initiatives while ensuring operations remain secure and resilient. That translates to larger deal sizes, deeper customer relationships, and strategic advisor status.
The Differentiated Advantage: Built for What’s Next
What sets Cisco’s AI-Ready Secure Network Architecture apart isn’t just what we’ve built—it’s how we’ve redefined what’s possible. This launch represents the only end-to-end architecture engineered for the AI era, across three foundational pillars:
Operational Simplicity Powered by AI
As enterprise networks face exponential demand from AI agents, real-time analytics, and dynamic workloads, traditional IT operations can no longer keep up. Cisco’s AgenticOps model transforms operations from reactive to proactive. Our AI Assistant and AI Canvas bring natural language diagnostics and cross-domain troubleshooting into a unified experience, while our unified Meraki Dashboard gives IT teams a single view and control across switching, wireless, routing, WAN, and industrial environments. This is AI managing AI—accelerating resolution and restoring confidence.
Scalable Devices Ready for AI
AI workloads require a new class of infrastructure—engineered for low latency, high throughput, and edge-ready computing. Cisco delivers purpose-built hardware across every domain: Smart Switches with sub-5 microsecond latency, Wi-Fi 7 access points for dense AI-device environments, and Secure Routers with integrated SD-WAN and quantum-ready encryption. These are not upgrades—they are foundational elements built for tomorrow’s digital operations, available today.
Security Fused into the Network
In the age of AI, the attack surface is expanding rapidly—and bolt-on security is no longer enough. Cisco embeds protection into every layer of the architecture, from quantum-safe Secure Boot at the device level to post-quantum MACsec encryption in transit and AI-aware segmentation that detects and stops lateral threats at machine speed. This is security that’s not added after the fact—it’s built into every connection, every flow, and every interaction.
When you walk into a customer meeting with Cisco’s AI-Ready architecture, you’re not pitching isolated products. You’re offering the only truly integrated, scalable, and secure foundation built for the AI-powered enterprise. That’s what gives you—and your customers—a competitive edge.
For a deeper technical dive into how this architecture addresses the fundamental challenges of AI-driven enterprises, I encourage you to read Anurag Dhingra’s blog on the AI-Ready Secure Network Architecture.
Your Competitive Positioning
Most enterprise networks were designed for human-driven workflows—not for the speed, scale, and unpredictability of AI. As AI becomes central to business operations, legacy infrastructure quickly turns into a constraint. The real choice facing customers today is whether to modernize proactively to support their AI strategies—or wait until performance bottlenecks force a reactive upgrade. Cisco’s new architecture empowers customers to take control of this transformation on their terms, with confidence and clarity.
With Cisco’s new architecture, you help them choose the proactive path. The unified management platform simplifies their operations, AI-powered tools help their teams scale, and built-in security gives them confidence as they expand their digital footprint.
What This Means Right Now
This technology is available immediately through Cisco and our certified partners. Customers are actively seeking solutions to support their AI initiatives, and many are facing hardware refresh timelines that create natural selling opportunities.
The businesses that move quickly to modernize their network foundations will gain competitive advantages over those that delay. Your role is to help customers understand that this isn’t just an infrastructure upgrade—it’s an enabler of their digital transformation strategy.
The AI-driven enterprise is here. The infrastructure to support it is ready. The question is whether you’ll be positioned as the trusted advisor who helps your customers navigate this transformation successfully.
Your success in the AI era starts with the right foundation. Today, we’re giving you that foundation and the competitive edge that comes with it.
We’d love to hear what you think. Ask a Question, Comment Below, and Stay Connected with #CiscoPartners on social!
Cebu Classic in one of their MPBL games. | Cebu Classic Facebook page
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Rocky Alcoseba, son of the late Cebu basketball icon Raul “Yayoy” Alcoseba, has voiced his frustration over the struggling campaign of the Cebu Classic in the ongoing Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL).
This came after Cebu absorbed a brutal 131-65 loss to the Batangas City Tanduay Rum Masters on Thursday night—a lopsided result that not only drew the ire of MPBL fans but also deeply disappointed Alcoseba.
Cebu currently sits at 24th in the league standings with a 4-11 win-loss record and has lost four straight games. Worse, the team has reportedly been fielding just six players due to alleged internal issues.
Their loss to Batangas was arguably the worst beating of the season. Batangas’ Philip Paniamogan, a fellow Bisaya from Cagayan de Oro, torched Cebu with 46 points, including a whopping 15-of-24 shooting from three-point range, along with five assists.
Dennis Santos led Cebu with 22 points, eight rebounds, and one assist. Ladis Lepalam tallied a double-double of 15 points and 10 rebounds, while John Paul Martinez added 13 points.
But for Alcoseba, the team’s current campaign is far from the Cebuano brand of basketball that once defined the island.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Alcoseba reminisced about how the Queen City of the South once prided itself on a strong basketball tradition—led in part by his father, who steered the M. Lhuillier Jewellers to numerous championships.
“Wherever Cebuanos play—be it in local leagues, Manila circuits, or international arenas—opponents know they’re in for a battle. ‘Basta Bisdak, gahi ug isug jud na.’ That saying lives on through the current generation of Cebuano standouts,” Alcoseba wrote.
“But now, it’s incredibly disheartening to witness what’s unfolding with the so-called Cebu Classic. A team that carries the name of our beloved island—and by extension, our basketball legacy—should be a source of pride. But instead, we see a roster barely filled, games lost by blowouts, and an effort that doesn’t come close to reflecting the talent and tenacity Cebuanos are known for,” he added.
“This isn’t just a disappointment. It’s a disservice.”
Alcoseba, who has an upcoming grassroots-based and women’s basketball tournament dubbed the Visayas G-Hoops here in Cebu, did not mince words in calling out the team’s management.
“This team was meant to showcase the deep pool of talent Cebu has long produced. Instead, it has become a shadow of what it should be. To the team’s management and ownership: this is your responsibility. Step up. Do better. Either rebuild this team in a way that truly honors Cebu, or drop the name entirely. Cebuano basketball deserves more than this half-hearted representation.”
Meanwhile, Jerome Calatrava, a former team official of the Cebu Sharks—the first Cebu-based MPBL team backed by International Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (IPI)—shared similar sentiments. He stressed that a Cebu team in the MPBL should be owned and operated by people who truly understand Cebuano basketball.
“As a Cebu-based sports enthusiast, I believe all teams representing Cebu should be based here and owned by Cebuano companies. It’s hard for outsiders to truly grasp Cebuano basketball culture,” said Calatrava of the Omega Boxing Gym. “If there are internal problems, they should resolve them within. At the end of the day, they’re representing our city.”
Calatrava added that the Cebu Sharks franchise is not defunct but merely on leave. He revealed they are waiting for a new and capable backer to bring the team back to the MPBL.
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As electric vehicles grow in popularity, car buyers are charting a path toward a safer, less oil-dependent future.
New EVs aren’t the only driving factor here. Sales figures for used EVs soared in 2024, growing 61.3% year-over-year in November, while sales of new EVs rose by 13.6% within a similar time frame.
The General analyzed Cox Automotive and Kelley Blue Book data to explore this trend and share what consumers need to know before buying a used electric vehicle, as well as what EV sales growth means for the auto industry.
Though many factors determine EV purchases, cost plays a major role. According to Cox Automotive, average listing prices for used EVs have fallen by roughly 10% year over year as of November 2024. Additionally, leading EV manufacturer Tesla slashed prices multiple times in 2024.
The EV market has expanded significantly due to these lower costs, as The New York Times reported in June 2024. “We’re seeing younger people,” Alex Lawrence, a used EV dealer in Salt Lake City, told the Times. “We are seeing more blue-collar and entry-level white-collar people. The purchase price of the car has suddenly become in reach.”
New regulations are boosting the movement, too. The Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act provides up to $4,000 in clean vehicle tax credits for used EV purchases, a consumer incentive that may be in jeopardy under the Trump administration.
Beyond the price tag, many consumers purchase EVs because of sustainability concerns. A survey published by Rare in April 2024 found that both current EV drivers and potential buyers were interested in electric vehicles because of environmental benefits.
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Examining the battery concerns of potential EV converts
Since batteries are essential to EVs, prospective customers should keep a few factors top of mind when considering an electric vehicle.
First, range: Drivers accustomed to stopping on any corner for gasoline may be wary of the comparative lack of battery charging infrastructure. As of April 2024, the U.S. has one fast-charging EV station for every 15 gas stations. But ubiquitous lithium-ion batteries are fast becoming more energy-dense and cost-effective, and IRA incentives have spurred car companies to further invest in EV battery development.
Vital infrastructure is also coming online, with thousands of new charging stations opening every year. In December 2024, there were 194,427 EV chargers available to the public, including 49,604 DC fast chargers—a 10.5% rise from June 2024. Plus, according to a 2024 study from Recurrent, the average American EV driver uses only 8% to 16% of their available range daily, suggesting that fears of running out of juice may often be unfounded.
Beyond range, some EV critics have also raised concerns about the relatively fast depreciation of these cars. A 2024 analysis from Wired found that certain EVs lose up to 50% of their value within a year of purchase. Additionally, most EV batteries only last around 12 to 15 years, or eight to 12 years if used often in extreme conditions.
That said, most EVs will still save consumers money in the long run. Charging an EV at home typically costs a fraction of filling up a car with gas at the pump. No engine means no oil changes or many of the other tuneups necessary for gas-powered vehicles, saving EV owners well over $1,000 annually on maintenance, according to some estimates. And while new batteries are expensive, warranties protect consumers from high replacement costs; the majority of EV makers cover batteries for up to eight years or 100,000 miles.
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Manufacturers switching gears to meet EV demand
Despite the factors in electric vehicles’ favor, the auto industry has been slow to adapt to the EV revolution. In 2024, for example, manufacturers including Tesla and Ford pushed back plans to make more EVs. Concerns regarding the volatility of lithium and the United States’ reliance on imported batteries also persist.
But volume has continued to rise. Honda and General Motors collectively sold 78,951 more EVs in 2024 than they did in 2023, according to Cox. EVs are expected to make up almost 10% of vehicle sales in 2025, with 25% of all cars sold likely to be electrified in some way. This increase in market competition hasn’t been good for everyone, though. Tesla has long been the #1 EV seller in the U.S., but in 2024, the company sold 37,854 fewer vehicles than it had in 2023.
Going forward, the federal government’s EV stance under President Donald Trump will form another piece of this puzzle. As of January 2025, the Trump administration has paused funding for the IRA and may eliminate tax credits for EV purchases.
No matter what happens, drivers still seem keen to make the switch to electric transportation. And as costs come down further and technology progresses, EVs will become even more attractive. By 2030, EVs are expected to be cheaper than gas guzzlers, and advancements like U.S.-made sodium-ion batteries will likely make EVs even more eco-friendly, reducing the production of heat-trapping gases that harm human health and cause increasingly frequent extreme weather events.
Indeed, those who care about the environment are strongly motivated to go down this road.
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Written by Mike Taylor. Story editing by Cu Fleshman. Additional editing by Elisa Huang. Copy editing by Tim Bruns. Photo selection by Ania Antecka.
Father’s Day is a special time to show appreciation for the man who has always been there for you. While traditional gifts like ties and mugs are nice, sometimes the best presents are those that speak to your dad’s unspoken desires. This year, why not surprise him with something he secretly wants but would never ask for? Here are ten thoughtful and unexpected gifts that will show your dad just how much you care.
1. A Day of Relaxation
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Many fathers work tirelessly without taking a moment for themselves. A day of relaxation, whether it’s a spa day, a massage, or simply a few hours of peace and quiet at home, can be the perfect gift. Consider booking a local spa or setting up a relaxing space at home with his favorite music, snacks, and a comfortable chair. The opportunity to unwind and de-stress is something he might never ask for, but will deeply appreciate. This thoughtful gesture acknowledges the hard work he puts in every day and gives him the break he deserves.
2. Quality Time Together
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In the hustle and bustle of daily life, quality time often gets overlooked. Dads cherish moments spent with their children, even if they don’t vocalize it. Plan a special day out doing something he loves, whether it’s fishing, hiking, or attending a sports game. These shared experiences create lasting memories and strengthen your bond. This Father’s Day, give him the gift of your time and undivided attention, showing him how much you value your relationship.
3. A Personalized Gift
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Personalized gifts have a unique charm because they show thoughtfulness and effort. Items like custom-made watches, engraved tools, or personalized photo albums can make your dad feel truly special. These gifts not only serve a practical purpose but also hold sentimental value. He might never express his desire for such items, but receiving something tailored just for him will undoubtedly touch his heart. It’s a tangible reminder of your love and appreciation.
4. A New Gadget
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Dads love their gadgets, even if they don’t always stay up-to-date with the latest technology. Consider getting him a new tech toy, like a smartwatch, a high-quality pair of headphones, or a smart home device. These gadgets can make his life easier and more enjoyable, blending practicality with fun. He might not ask for these items himself, but they can quickly become his new favorite thing. Keeping him updated with the latest trends can also make him feel more connected and tech-savvy.
5. A Subscription Service
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Subscription services are a gift that keeps on giving. Whether it’s a streaming service, a gourmet food delivery, or a magazine subscription, there’s something for every dad. These services provide continuous enjoyment and are a reminder of your thoughtful gift every time he uses them. Your father might never think to indulge in such luxuries for himself, but he will certainly enjoy the variety and convenience they bring. This is a gift that shows you understand his tastes and interests.
6. A DIY Project Kit
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If your dad loves to work with his hands, a DIY project kit could be the perfect gift. Kits for building models, crafting furniture, or even brewing beer at home can offer hours of entertainment and a sense of accomplishment. These projects allow him to immerse himself in a hobby he loves and create something tangible. He might never request such a gift, but he’ll appreciate the opportunity to dive into a new project. Plus, it’s a great way to spend time together, helping him with the project or admiring his work.
7. A Cooking Class or Gourmet Experience
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For the foodie father, a cooking class or gourmet dining experience can be an exciting gift. Classes that teach new culinary skills or experiences like a chef’s table dinner can be incredibly rewarding. These gifts cater to his love for good food and provide a memorable experience. He might never admit to wanting to improve his cooking skills or enjoy a fancy meal, but these experiences can bring him great joy. It’s a unique way to celebrate his passion for food and perhaps learn something new together.
8. Outdoor Gear
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If your dad enjoys the great outdoors, new gear for his favorite activity can be a fantastic gift. High-quality camping equipment, fishing gear, or hiking boots can enhance his adventures. These gifts show that you pay attention to his interests and support his hobbies. While he might not vocalize his need for new gear, he’ll appreciate the thoughtfulness and practicality of the gift. Encouraging his outdoor pursuits is a wonderful way to celebrate his adventurous spirit.
9. A Memory Book
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Creating a memory book filled with photos, mementos, and handwritten notes is a deeply personal and touching gift. This book can capture cherished moments from your childhood to the present, reflecting the special bond you share. Your dad might never ask for such a sentimental gift, but it’s something he’ll treasure forever. This gesture shows how much you value your shared history and the memories you’ve created together. It’s a heartfelt way to honor his role in your life.
10. An Experience Gift
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Experience gifts, like tickets to a concert, a weekend getaway, or a hot air balloon ride, offer unforgettable adventures. These gifts create lasting memories and provide something to look forward to. Your dad might not think to treat himself to such experiences, but he’ll relish the opportunity. These gifts show that you want to share in exciting moments and create new memories together. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate Father’s Day with a touch of adventure and fun.
Make This Father’s Day Unforgettable
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This Father’s Day, step beyond the ordinary and surprise your dad with a gift that speaks to his unspoken wishes. Whether it’s relaxation, quality time, or a new gadget, these thoughtful presents will show him how much you care. By choosing a gift that aligns with his interests and passions, you’ll create a memorable day that he’ll cherish forever. Don’t forget to include a heartfelt message to express your appreciation and love. Make this Father’s Day unforgettable by giving your dad the surprise he never knew he wanted.
Amanda Blankenship is a full-time stay-at-home mom. Her family recently welcomed their second child, a baby boy, into the world. She loves writing about various topics, including politics and personal finance. In her spare time, Amanda loves to play with her kids, make food from scratch, crochet, and read.
Do you often find yourself feeling bloated and uncomfortable and sometimes you don’t even know why? It’s a common issue that many people face, but the good news is, I know how to beat the bloat!
Let’s dive into why you might be experiencing bloating + how you can get rid of it so you can feel snatched all the time!
5 Reasons WHY Your Bloated
1. Eating Too Quickly
One of the main reasons why you might be feeling bloated is because you’re eating too quickly. When you eat too fast, you’re more likely to swallow air, which can lead to bloating and gas. Try to slow down during meals and chew your food thoroughly to prevent bloating.
2. Consuming Carbonated Drinks
Carbonated drinks like soda and sparkling water can also contribute to bloating. The bubbles in these drinks can get trapped in your digestive system, causing discomfort and bloating. Opt for still water or herbal tea instead to help reduce bloating.
3. High Sodium Intake
Consuming too much sodium can lead to water retention, which can make you feel bloated. Be mindful of your salt intake and try to limit processed foods, which are often high in sodium. Adding more potassium-rich foods like bananas and sweet potatoes to your diet can help balance out sodium levels and reduce bloating.
4. Lack of Fiber
If you’re not getting enough fiber in your diet, you may experience bloating and constipation. Fiber helps to regulate digestion and keep things moving smoothly in your digestive tract. Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in your meals to increase your fiber intake and reduce bloating.
5. Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety can have a major impact on your digestive system, leading to bloating and discomfort. Practice stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help calm your mind and improve your digestion.
Belly Fat vs. Belly Bloat
It’s important to differentiate between belly fat and belly bloat. Belly fat is excess fat stored around your midsection, while belly bloat is temporary and often caused by factors like diet and digestion.
Our Bloat Be Gone pills target bloating specifically, helping you achieve a flatter stomach and improved digestion.
To get rid of belly fat, I would recommend adding 3 things into your daily routine:
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Don’t let bloating hold you back from feeling your best. With our Bloat Be Gone pills, you can say goodbye to that uncomfortable puffy feeling and say hello to a flat belly.
The tense exchange took place June 11 as Bessent was being grilled about a number of things concerning America’s economic status.
U.S. Rep. Stacey Plaskett (D-VI) took the time to remind Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent that she is not like her other colleagues and will not be interrupted during a House committee hearing.
The tense exchange took place June 11 as Bessent was being grilled about a number of things concerning America’s economic status. When Plaskett noted how the stock market has dropped since President Donald Trump took over the Oval Office, the treasury secretary interrupted with claims that her reporting was “incorrect” — but he learned not to do it again. “Let me get something straight with you first here. I’ve seen you interrupt everyone,” Plaskett said.
“When you come to someone’s house, you respect their rules, and in this house, we don’t interrupt individuals, and you’re not going to interrupt my time.”
Plaskett to Bessent: “Excuse me. Let me get something straight with you. I’ve seen you interrupt everyone. When you come to someone’s house, you respect their rules. And in this house, we don’t interrupt individuals. And you’re not going to interrupt my time.” pic.twitter.com/ZfO8JtrYds
As Bessent seemed to be taking her stance as a joke, cleaning his glasses as she scolded him, Plaskett gave him some advice on what he could do in the meantime. “I’m going to give you time to respond. You may want to jot down some notes about things that you don’t agree with me on so you can respond to them at that time,” she continued.
“But while I am speaking as the person holding this time, you will refrain from speaking, sir, until I am done, and then I will give you time to speak, okay?”
Bessent responded, saying, “I look forward to the facts.”
According to NJ.com, the Treasury leader claims the stock market has been up since the first day of 2025, with reference to the S&P 500 index. When Trump took office on Jan. 20, the S&P 500 closed at $6,049.24 just one day later. As of June 11, it closed at $6,038.81. He blamed a staffer who may have presented incorrect information, resulting in the exchange. “Well, first of all, I would fire the staffer who did that chart because it stopped in February 2025, and prices are down substantially since then. But that’s an inconvenient truth,” he said.
“Secondly, the S&P, if the congresswoman would care to check Bloomberg, the stock market as judged by the S&P, which is the most widely held index by Americans’ 401(k)s, is up on the year.”
As the video went viral on social media, Plaskett was met with misogynistic comments, claiming her “PMS cycle” may have been synced. However, like the exchange, she took the time to respond, saying the cabinet member was out of control.
Excuse you!! This twat, cunt, pum pum whatever you want to call it represents an organ that gives LIFE and is resilienr so thanks for the compliment. I can take one interruption but Bessent was out of control. And…. I know I look good for my age but baby I’m post menopausal and… https://t.co/04jSJPVknP
— Rep. Stacey Plaskett (@StaceyPlaskett) June 11, 2025
Bessent responded to the clip on X stating, “This is the People’s House. And the people deserve to hear the facts.” And the facts are, according to a report released by the Labor Department, that prices for consumers went up by 2.4% in May 2025 in comparison to May 2024.
The Department of Health and Human Services notified 400 laid off CDC workers on Wednesday that their reduction in force had been “revoked.”
Nathan Posner/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images
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Nathan Posner/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images
Federal officials on Wednesday appear to have “revoked” the layoffs of more than 400 employees of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention who had been abruptly dismissed months ago, which may reinstate the entire staff of a laboratory that tracks viral hepatitis and most employees in one of the CDC’s environmental health divisions.
The workers were among thousands that the Department of Health and Human Services laid off on April 1 as part of a reduction in force at the agency, most of whom are still out of work.
Employees of the National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention accounted for 214 of the staff “expected to receive the rescission of RIF notifications,” according to an email to the group from its acting director, Dr. Renáta Ellington, that was reviewed by NPR. The division’s two laboratories that dealt with viral hepatitis and sexually transmitted diseases had been shuttered completely, despite the fact that some of those scientists performed disease surveillance work unlike any other labs in the world.
More than 150 people who worked for the National Center for Environmental Health were also among the reinstated workers, according to three CDC employees familiar with the cuts. The center’s Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice, which includes employees based in Atlanta who work on asthma and air quality, environmental emergencies and lead poisoning prevention, may be almost entirely reinstated, two division employees told NPR.
At least 95 workers from other CDC divisions account for the rest of the employees who were notified on June 11, according to two CDC workers familiar with the cuts.
HHS notified CDC employees on Wednesday afternoon by email, copies of which were obtained by NPR. The email said the agency had “revoked” the “upcoming reduction in force” notices the workers had previously received. It did not explain the reason that HHS appeared to be reinstating hundreds of workers more than two months after it told many of them in another email that their jobs were “either unnecessary or virtually identical to duties being performed elsewhere in the agency.”
Ellington, the director of the group most affected by the HHS backtrack, told her staff that she herself did not know “what factored into the decision or why certain staff received the notification,” and advised the employees that the information might not be final.
HHS did not immediately respond to NPR’s request for comment regarding the reason that it revoked the employees’ notices. In April, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. acknowledged that about a fifth of the cuts at HHS were made unintentionally and some people would be offered their jobs back.
By May, Kennedy announced that 328 formerly laid off workers at another division of the CDC, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, had been reinstated.
Reactions to the news from workers at the CDC were mixed. Some scientists told NPR they would be excited to do their jobs again. Other workers said they were confused about the meaning of the emails and apprehensive about the consequences of the decision.
“I think people are very tacitly hopeful that this means they can get their jobs back and continue serving in ways that they love,” said Kathryn Sisler, a health scientist at the Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice who received the email on Wednesday. “But there has been so much instability and chaos that I think a lot of people would hesitate to say it is good news.”
Before Sisler was laid off in April, she worked with communities in several states to help people affected by the results of climate change, like increased heat. The turmoil that HHS had caused by shuttering her department two months ago already disrupted those efforts, she said.
“Some states and localities decided to already start laying people off because they weren’t sure if the grants were going to continue,” Sisler said. “Really just a lot of valuable data and information that was getting lost and not being utilized, especially as we look towards the heat season right now, which starts to get pretty deadly.”
Reversing the layoffs would also bring logistical challenges for some affected employees, Sisler said. She and some other members of the division already moved away from Atlanta, where they had lived to be close to their jobs at the CDC’s headquarters, she mentioned. Other employees had taken other jobs or had been offered them.
“It’s a step in the right direction, but it doesn’t feel like a victory that is on solid ground,” said Sisler.
Staff at the National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention confirmed that the lapse in activity while employees were not working in April and May had also caused damage in some of their labs. At least one machine would need repairs, two CDC employees told NPR, and some disease outbreaks had not been properly tracked. Since late April, without help from the CDC’s hepatitis lab, health workers in Florida had not been able to confirm any additional cases as part of an ongoing hepatitis C outbreak in that state, said another worker at the CDC. The employees asked not to be identified because they said they fear retaliation.
Public health experts echoed the mixed sentiments of the employees.
“It’s great to see that there is some recognition of the importance of these workers and that being in those positions is critical for the public health of America and that they are being reinstated in order to continue their important work,” said Carmen Marsit, an environmental health researcher and professor at Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health.
But “there’s still a lot of people that are not being reinstated,” he added. “And so I think there are still concerns about what is being missed.”
Scott Becker, CEO of the Association of Public Health Laboratories, a group that works closely with some of the labs that were previously shuttered, said he was “happily flabbergasted” to learn of the HHS emails.
“I am concerned about how many of the people have already moved on or might move on and the trauma that they really must be going through with the uncertainty,” said Beckler. “But all in all, it’s good news and I’ll take it.”
Yuki Noguchi and Selena Simmons-Duffin contributed to this report.
If you have information about health projects that have been halted or any other story tips, you can send an email to the reporter of this article at [email protected]. You can also send an encrypted text message on signal to the reporter’s username: ceis.78.
Who else remembers the episode of Friends where they’re trying to move a couch around a tight corner on a staircase, and Ross starts yelling “Pivot!”
That pretty much sums up how a lot of businesses are feeling these days.
There’s plenty of uncertainty to go around, and there are plenty of questions about what lies ahead — and what the impact will be on businesses across the country.
If only we had a crystal ball that actually worked. Until then, the best thing businesses can do is prepare and plan ahead, which is the crux of risk management.
Not sure how to handle monitoring and risk-proofing all the different aspects of your organization? Good news: Digital risk management tools take the guesswork out of risk management and make it easy to identify, assess, and respond to threats.
So, since uncertainty has become a buzzword, and our “unprecedented times” have become a lot more precedented, we thought this would be an ideal time to look at digital risk management tools and how they can help businesses mitigate threats before they turn into problems. We’ll also keep looking for a working crystal ball.
We’ve all heard the cyber horror stories of hackers and other threat actors using AI tools to conduct more sophisticated cyberattacks. But, on the flip side, AI is also helping companies to “supercharge their defensive capabilities.” And that’s a trend we can all get behind.
There have been a lot of headlines lately about CrowdStrike’s fast-growing Falcon Exposure Management offering. If you’re unsure about what’s been going on or looking for a rundown of just the highlights, this article covers the latest.
Heightened risks around the economy, geopolitics, and climate change are leading business leaders to develop new frameworks for managing global supply chains. TL;DR: We weren’t kidding about there being lots of uncertainty to go around.
Cybersecurity assessment platforms
No one wants an unwanted visitor to crash a party. Now, let’s translate that to businesses and the digital world. Preventing unwanted guests (hackers) is where cybersecurity assessment platforms come in.
Cybersecurity assessment platforms are designed to help companies check how secure their digital information is — and then suggest ways to make it even safer. These tools can thoroughly analyze a company’s cybersecurity policies, regulatory compliance, and vulnerabilities, like setting the network password to “password123,” so businesses can remediate digital weaknesses. It’s all about making sure no one can sneak in through an unlocked side door and wreak havoc.
Examples include:
Bitsight: With more than 3,300 customers and 65,000 users, Bitsight provides real-time visibility into cyber risk and threat exposure, which can enable teams to quickly identify weak spots, detect threats, prioritize actions, and mitigate risk. Bitsight says its security ratings solution helps companies understand their own security performance and that of their vendors, clients, and other third parties.
SecurityScorecard: Recognized as a trusted resource by the U.S. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency, SecurityScorecard delivers end-to-end supply chain cybersecurity to safeguard business continuity. SecurityScorecard created Supply Chain Detection and Response, which helps security teams actively prevent third-party breaches by enhancing the security preparedness of their organization and suppliers.
UpGuard: Helping businesses manage cybersecurity risks across their supply chains, UpGuard’s integrated risk platform provides businesses with a comprehensive view of their risk. Using proprietary security ratings, data leak detection capabilities, and remediation workflows, UpGuard helps organizations of all sizes proactively identify security vulnerabilities.
Software to keep your business running
Business continuity planning tools can save the day when a curveball is thrown your way — whether that’s a minor inconvenience or a major disaster.
These tools facilitate developing, documenting, and managing business continuity plans, ensuring operations can continue during and after a crisis. Designed to automate business continuity management processes, business continuity planning software helps organizations minimize downtime, protect assets, and ensure a swift recovery when disaster strikes.
Examples include:
Archer: Used by customers in 48 countries, Archer helps organizations transform risk management into business-enabling strategies. Archer offers a scalable approach that allows businesses to proactively prepare for and protect against potentially devastating disruptions. With Archer, businesses can identify and catalog critical processes and systems to develop business continuity and disaster recovery plans to safeguard operations.
Fusion: Fusion helps businesses build proactive continuity and resiliency strategies. The Fusion Framework System provides interactive ways to analyze all business aspects to identify risks, points of failure, and the appropriate response to mitigate damages. Fusion recently launched BC Plan inFusion, which lets customers upload static business continuity plans to have the information converted into usable data in just a few minutes.
Supply chain risk management tools
Supply chain risk management tools, unsurprisingly, help keep a company’s supply chain running smoothly. They help businesses identify, assess, and mitigate potential problems, such as supplier reliability, political issues, natural disasters, or sudden market changes.
By using these tools, businesses can stay ahead of challenges and reduce supply chain vulnerabilities and disruptions, which is increasingly critical in today’s interconnected business environment.
Examples include:
interos.ai: Described as the world’s first and only automated supplier intelligence platform, interos.ai offers lifecycle supply chain risk management to help mitigate hidden threats. The company uses AI to continuously map and monitor millions of suppliers and billions of relationships to protect organizations from various weak points for a comprehensive view of risk across physical and digital supply chains.
Resilinc: Resilinc’s supplier-customer collaboration platform integrates comprehensive data analytics, real-time risk event monitoring, mapping, and AI-powered predictive insights to give businesses an understanding of their multi-tier supply chain. Resilinc’s AI-powered platform can help organizations anticipate, mitigate, and respond to disruptions. Companies can track and analyze a variety of supply chain data points and potential risks.
Compliance management systems
Compliance regulations are constantly changing, and keeping up can feel like a challenging and never-ending game of catch-up. And the stakes are high since failing to meet regulatory requirements can lead to hefty financial penalties.
Compliance management systems are tools and controls that automate and streamline compliance monitoring, managing, and reporting processes, reducing the risk of violations and penalties. A compliance management system can include anything from risk assessments to compliance training.
Examples include:
LogicGate: A cloud-based platform, LogicGate says its goal is to make governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) processes easier for all businesses. LogicGate’s no-code app builder and pre-built templates let organizations adjust processes and workflows as needed and automate their own GRC tasks. LogicGate recently launched its Value Realization Tool, which provides insight into the financial value of GRC programs.
MetricStream: With over a million global users, MetricStream offers integrated risk management and GRC solutions that enable companies to transform risk into a strategic advantage. MetricStream’s platform promotes a holistic and collaborative approach to enterprise-wide GRC activities. According to MetricStream, its customers, on average, see a 90% reduction in time managing compliance activities.
Employee security training platforms
Think of employee security training platforms as a cybersecurity boot camp for your team -– but fun and without any of the militaristic intensity. These platforms teach employees how to spot cyber threats in the workplace, which is increasingly important since 95% of data breaches are tied to human error.
With employee security training, companies can promote a culture of cybersecurity awareness and empower employees to act as the first line of defense against cyber risks.
Examples include:
Infosec IQ: Infosec says its mission is to put people at the center of cybersecurity by providing knowledge and skills to help employees stay cyber-secure at work and home. Infosec IQ’s industry- and role-based cybersecurity training personalizes education so that it is relevant to an employee’s role and the cyber threats they’re most likely to encounter.
KnowBe4: KnowBe4’s HRM+ platform includes security awareness and compliance training, cloud email security, anti-phishing, real-time coaching, and more. KnowBe4 says it uses personalized and relevant content, tools, and techniques to “mobilize workforces to transform from the largest attack surface to an organization’s biggest asset.”
Employee training tools
Employee training tools are designed to promote a positive and collaborative workplace environment. Basically, they help get everyone on the same page with the company culture.
The tools can cover things like company policies, improving communication and teamwork, and even training for job-specific skills. The benefit of using employee training tools is more than just compliance — they can help boost employee morale, which is a definite bonus for recruitment and retention.
Examples include:
Emtrain: Emtrain’s solutions help develop inclusion, ethics, and respect as professional competencies. Emtrain partners with industry experts and uses current events to create video-based training on topics such as unconscious bias and respect. With Emtrain, companies can benchmark their corporate culture against the global community to identify issues before they become problems.
Traliant: Traliant offers tailored, interactive, story-based online training designed to engage employees. An in-house legal team ensures that the courses offered are continuously compliant. Traliant’s library of courses, including training on inclusion and code of conduct, can help broaden perspectives, achieve compliance, and elevate workplace culture.
ExceleratorConsulting: Excelerator delivers custom programs focused on achieving measurable workplace improvements in areas like compliance training, leadership consulting, and HR functions. Their Excelerator HR Essentials option gives clients access to a dedicated virtual advisor, a mini HR audit, and an extensive document library.
The wait is over! Embroker’s 2024 Business Insurance Index: Tech Sector is here. Our detailed analysis reveals how tech companies are navigating business insurance decisions in the evolving risk landscape. One surprising trend: Tech companies with $25M+ in funding are increasingly opting for lower D&O limits.
We’re thrilled to welcome Stephen Easley to the Embroker team as the new Vice President of Underwriting. With more than 25 years of specialty underwriting expertise, Stephen brings a wealth of knowledge that will help expand our underwriting capabilities and refine our specialty insurance products. Check out this recent blog post to learn more about Stephen’s experience and vision for Embroker’s future.
Embroker’s Head of Claims, Corrie Hurm, was recently interviewed for a business.com article regarding the importance of employment practices liability insurance for small businesses. This quote highlights the issue perfectly: “What is particularly troubling is that many organizations don’t recognize the need for EPLI until they are already facing a claim.”
(Slightly obsessed with this jacket to throw on to and from the studio).
