Christine Haas: How ChatGPT Could Impact the Future of Search Engines and Businesses

NY Weekly Staff on January 9, 2023

Haas Media is a brand that helps businesses secure high-level media placements and offers crisis management services. In this exclusive interview, Haas Media’s CEO, Christine Haas, discusses the new AI technology ChatGPT and both the benefits and potential concerns business owners should be aware of. 

One potential benefit is the ability to quickly and accurately generate human-like text and responses to prompts, which can save time and resources for businesses. Additionally, AI systems like chatGPT can also help businesses better understand and analyze customer data, providing insights that can inform marketing and business strategies. 

However, there are also potential drawbacks to consider. Businesses that rely heavily on AI systems may be at risk if the systems fail or experience problems, so it is important to have contingency plans in place. 

One of the main concerns with AI systems like ChatGPT is data privacy, as these applications often require access to large amounts of data which can raise security concerns. Data is only as secure as the systems and processes in place to protect it. Any weaknesses, vulnerabilities, or just simple human error can threaten data stored or processed by the AI system.

“Business owners need to ensure that they have appropriate safeguards in place to protect customer data,” Christine explains, “and if they don’t already have a crisis management plan, or their plan is not up to date, they should consider developing one that can be implemented immediately if necessary, if that customer data is exposed.”

Bias is another potential issue with AI, as the systems can sometimes reflect the biases of the data they are trained on, leading to biased results or decisions. 

Finally, AI systems have the potential to automate certain tasks, leading to job displacement for human workers. Business owners should consider the potential impact on their workforce. 

While AI systems like ChatGPT can be very effective at generating human-like text and responding to prompts, they are not currently capable of performing all of the functions of a search engine, such as indexing and searching vast amounts of information on the web, ranking and organizing search results based on relevance and importance, and incorporating features like spell check and language translation. 

In the short term, it is unlikely that chatGPT or any other AI system will fully replace Google Search or other search engines. However, this does not mean that AI systems like ChatGPT will not play a significant role in the future of technology and business. As AI technology continues to advance, it is possible that chatGPT or similar systems could become more advanced and able to perform more functions. For entrepreneurs and brands who rely heavily on Google search for customers and followers, it is important to stay up to date on the latest developments in AI and be prepared for potential changes in consumer habits. 

As with any new technology, it is important for businesses to:

  • Stay informed about new technologies
  • Understand the capabilities
  • Consider potential risks and benefits
  • Adapt to new developments
  • Engage in proactive planning

Doing so will allow business owners to stay competitive in the rapidly changing digital landscape while not being caught unawares if issues arise. 

About Christine Haas

Christine Haas is the CEO of Haas Media, a company that helps clients secure media placements and offers crisis management services. Haas is a skilled media placement expert who coaches executives on on-camera presence and content, prepares them for Q&A sessions with reporters, and pitches and secures targeted media for maximum exposure. She has also provided campaign and fundraising services for organizations such as the Susan G. Komen Foundation and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Haas has 17 Emmy awards for her work in broadcast journalism and has anchored newscasts in top markets including San Diego, Tampa, Minneapolis, and Houston. She is a graduate of Illinois State University and has written a book titled “The Ranch.”

Employees believe in-person training is more effective than online training even after the pandemic

NY Weekly Staff on January 9, 2023

Technology has been critical over the last two years as we navigated the pandemic and found a means to operate remotely. Using smartphone apps to communicate with friends and family, browsing social media, and meeting online with coworkers have all been made possible by adopting technology into our daily lives.

But what about skills development? What is the difference in results between in-person training and online learning? Research suggests that while there is reduced stress around attending online training, it definitely comes with its disadvantages, such as:

  • Increase in online fatigue
  • Lack of engagement in virtual classrooms
  • Certain subjects are hard to accommodate online
  • Interruptions due to external factors (family, technology, weather, etc.)

On the other hand, below are the top 3 benefits of in-person training that should be considered when learning a new skill.

  • It encourages employees to interact with one another in real-time

Social learning and safe practice in the group with the instructor increases memorization and skill development exponentially. Experienced instructors are equipped to put their audience at ease and help them navigate through the most uncomfortable practical exercises without feeling discouraged or judged by their group. In-person training also allows us to see an immediate response and the results of the participants.

If one subject is easily understood while another proves challenging for employees, instructors can instantly adapt and provide additional examples to make sure the material is well understood. This versatility enables employees to learn more at the same time and minimize confusion.

  • It keeps employees engaged and collaborative

While online learning can benefit some people, it can also be problematic for others, especially if the topic does not appeal to some employees. When conducting online training alone, it’s easy to lose focus, get distracted and skip some content. People tend to multitask throughout online training sessions, whether intentionally or unconsciously.

On the other hand, in-person training can be made fun, enjoyable and interactive. Physical involvement and interaction are still the most effective methods of learning. There is much to be claimed for in-person learning, which results in higher productivity, engagement and satisfaction.

  • It strengthens workplace relationships

Online training is beneficial in various ways, but it may be an isolating experience. In-person training allows employees to cooperate and communicate throughout the process. It encourages them to build workplace relationships and get to know one another better on the human level. While discussing the problems at hand and learning from coworkers’ expertise, employees get inspired and come up with more creative solutions for the business.

When it comes to establishing relationships, nothing beats time spent together, and it is a terrific method to simultaneously strengthen team spirit and boost staff skills.

In-person learning provides a safe space for participants to ask questions and receive answers immediately, maintaining the confidentiality and allowing employees to sort out their problems professionally under the instructors’ guidance.

It is also important to consider the impact of body language and nonverbal cues in communication. These cues are often lost or misinterpreted in online communication, leading to misunderstandings and miscommunications. In-person training allows for the opportunity to read these cues and adjust communication accordingly, leading to a more effective and efficient learning experience.

Additionally, in-person training allows for the use of hands-on activities and demonstrations, which can be more effective in reinforcing learning and retaining information. Overall, while online training has its place in modern communication and skills development, in-person training should not be overlooked as a valuable tool in achieving desired results and outcomes.

Conclusion

With today’s business worldwide shift occurring at what appears to be a breakneck pace, it is easy to underestimate the strength and importance of face-to-face communication. Online training does not yet deliver the one-on-one attention that face-to-face training does. As a result, in-person communication is critical for enhancing engagement among leaders and teams and should be included in every internal communications strategy.

In-person learning facilitates teamwork and learning from other participants. It also enables collaborative issue-solving and, most importantly, networking. Employees meet like-minded people with common interests who can help them further their learning path.

If there is a major behavior change campaign, it is beneficial for the instructor to come in and address the audience to support with detailed and accurate change management practices. Connecting the learning objective to an inspirational activity is a helpful strategy to ensure that the learners remember the important message, whether it is about improving teamwork, environmental challenges, or fostering cultural awareness within the organization.

How “Everything Bagel” Sago is Making a Name for Himself as a Video Content Director

NY Weekly Staff on January 9, 2023

Harbaksh Sahi, also known as Sago, is a multi-talented video content director and artist with a diverse cultural background, as well as a notable career in film. As a filmmaker, Sago has worked with renowned brands and artists in various industries, including fashion, beauty, and music. Some of his notable career highlights include working as a director for ELLE and Bobbi Brown, as well as Grammy-nominated artist Beth Hart and pop icon Willow. In addition to his work as a filmmaker, Sago is also an author. He recently published his first book and is currently working on his next. Sago has made a name for himself in the industry through his diverse portfolio and unique cultural influences. With a background in directing video content for a range of brands and artists in various industries, including fashion, beauty, and music. 

Sago’s passion for filmmaking began at a young age, as he started making short films with friends and filming and editing videos for his friends’ bands. He was drawn to and obsessed with the creative processes of filming, from the planning stages to bringing the ideas to life on film and sharing that experience with friends and fans.

As a young and driven filmmaker, Sago has already made a name for himself in the industry with his impressive portfolio. Within just his first year working as a video content director and producer, Sago worked on over 70 projects, collaborating with big name brands such as Vh1/Viacom, MTV, and Total Environment Music Foundation, as well as popular music artists like Stephane Wrembel, the Grammy award winning composer for the Oscar-winning movie Midnight in Paris, and legendary EDM artist Skrillex. He also founded his own production studio, Glowworm Collective, and received press from Rolling Stone magazine for his work in the music industry. But Sago’s work was not limited to directing music content. “I also became the go-to guy for directing and filming comedy content,” Harbaksh adds. 

His creative direction when it came to directing and filming content for comedy videos and music videos alike was soon attributed by other fellow creators as the “Glowworm style,” praised for its eclectic ambience and unique visuals. “They would ask other freelance editors to try to emulate [it]!” Harbaksh explains.

“One of the first comedy videos I ever directed received over 1.5 Million views, which no other indie comics were receiving at the time; most would receive somewhere in the thousands. Many projects I’ve directed since then have continued to receive millions of views, and my work was instrumental in bringing the rise of the Indian independent comedy scene, which previously didn’t exist on such a scale.”

“Soon enough, I was directing and filming content for practically every comic in the country. Some of these specials went on to platforms like Netflix and Amazon,” says Harbaksh.

Sago’s career has continued to thrive, with recent projects including directing and producing official content for popular bands Jannabi and byebyesea at the Lincoln Center in New York, and working on the crew for various projects with producer Anthony Argento. As Sago looks towards the future, his current goal is to build a strong network in New York and establish his own studio in the city.

His versatility and expertise in various fields make him a standout in his industry, and with his film “Seekers” set to hit the festival circuit in 2023 and his other creative pursuits underway, there is no doubt that Sago will continue to make a mark in the arts and entertainment world. Despite this, Harbaksh Sahi’s accomplishments were not without struggle. As a student on Optional Practical Training (OPT), he’s used to balancing his time, carefully juggling responsibilities and creative needs and switching hats whenever necessary. “To attempt to do so many things in one year can be quite the challenge in itself. At times it gets overwhelming, but when I go through with it, it’s always rewarding,” Sago says.

As a multi-talented artist and filmmaker, Harbaksh Sahi, also known as Sago, has faced numerous challenges in his pursuit to do it all. From working as a video content director and collaborating with various artists and brands, to writing and publishing a book, and producing a film, Sago has had to master the art of time management and juggle a variety of projects. Despite the overwhelming nature of trying to accomplish so much in a short amount of time, Sago has persevered and seen success in each of his creative pursuits. His hard work and dedication to his craft have not gone unnoticed, as he has gained recognition and built a strong portfolio in the industry. 

While the past year has presented its fair share of challenges, Sago has proven that he is capable of tackling multiple projects and achieving success. Sago’s drive and determination have allowed him to achieve great success in his career as a filmmaker, and he serves as an inspiration to other young creatives looking to make their mark in the industry. By staying true to his passions and persevering through challenges, Sago has proven that it is possible to succeed in multiple areas of interest with hard work and dedication.

Sago’s diverse cultural background, which includes living in various countries across three continents, brings a unique perspective to his work as a multimedia artist. An “Everything Bagel” sort of talent, as his peers have affectionately called it. His first book, “Kid and the Magic Orb,” is both a children’s book and a love letter to New York City and is available nationwide in major bookstores. The book has garnered international acclaim, and its charming story has drawn in a broad audience, as the California Institute of the Arts’ article talking about the book brought in Sago and his collaborators for an exclusive interview. A short animated film adaptation of the book is already in the works.

The artist himself has a wealth of knowledge and advice to give other aspiring creatives looking to make a break in the industry, particularly when it comes to pursuing multiple creative projects and overcoming challenges. Sago advises others to “go for it,” even when faced with tough decisions or overwhelming situations. He believes that taking bold steps, such as moving to a new location or starting a new project from scratch, is necessary for growth and success. Sago also emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and following one’s passions, even if it means starting from the bottom and working hard to get to the top. He has learned firsthand that with determination and perseverance, it is possible to achieve success in multiple areas of interest. Sago’s advice is not only inspiring, but also practical and grounded in his own experiences and successes in the arts and entertainment industry.

Me and the Media Darling: Joanne McCall, author of “Media Darling,” talks about how to bring out your inner brightness

NY Weekly Staff on January 9, 2023

Joanne McCall is a publicist and media trainer who has coached, consulted, trained, and helped thousands of business owners, authors, speakers, influencers, and coaches get the media attention they desire. She has a new book out called Media Darling: Shine Through Every Interview, which is a step-by-step guide to coming across as the expert, professional, and influencer that you are…or want to be. 

In an exclusive interview with New York Weekly, we ask Joanne McCall about her new book, advice for aspiring media people, and maybe some life lessons along the way.

Amanda Greyfield: What made you decide to write Media Darling?

Joanne McCall: We are all the media now, and watching so many set up their own media channels is inspiring, and yet at the same time, a little cringe-worthy. With a little training, those new to having their own media empires could be so good at it. I have been a publicist and media trainer for a number of years now and while so many channels of media are open to everyone, a lot of people are either intimidated, not sure what to do, or they’re not doing it well. If you are in business, you want to be seen as the pro that you are. Because the media you get sticks around, you want to deliver great interviews right out of the gate. 

Many of my clients are CEOs or business owners and are the face of the brand. Without training to effectively talk about their business, products, services, and the values of the company, promising interviews can turn into disappointing nightmares. It’s important to know how to keep interviews on track, bridge back to your messages when asked questions out of left field, and also be someone the media wants to interview – a Media Darling. 

When considering media, some clients experience envy when they see others getting the visibility they want, while at the same time feeling  intimidated by the whole notion of actually doing it. Those individuals tend to become paralyzed not knowing what to do. Others have all the confidence in the world, but lack the competence of delivering a great interview. You need both – confidence AND competence. It’s a skill set, and the good news is that it can be learned. 

Because of all these reasons, and the fact that I’ve been doing this work for many years now, the time came to write it all down and share it with others. For those who can use the help, I believe it will give them the value they need.

Amanda: How do you know if you need media training?

Joanne McCall: Assume that you do. Even business owners and authors who are experienced at doing interviews and have had many books published know that they need training with each new book. Messages are different, the environment is different, platforms are different. Whether you get formal training or not, the very least you should do is develop your key messages and then do “mock interviews” during which a friend asks you questions and you can practice your answers and delivery. Replay the recordings and see if you can improve upon what you have done.

One of the first questions I ask my clients when we begin our work together is, “Are there any questions you might be asked that you really don’t want to answer? Or, put another way, are there questions that you secretly hope you will never be asked; in fact, the very thought of it makes you anxious and nervous?” Those are the ones we tackle first. 

For example, I had a client who had a felony record. It was years ago when he was only 23 years old and had started his first company. He clearly made some mistakes, but didn’t know at the time that he was breaking the law. He paid his dues and put it behind him until the time came for him to do some media interviews. If a very inquisitive reporter discovered this fact from his past, he was afraid of being asked about it. After working on it, we came up with an excellent response to the question so that he was able to relax and move forward with the interview process. He no longer had to spend his energy worrying about being asked this question. P.S. No one has asked him about it. Sometimes when you have the perfect comeback, you never get a chance to use it.

Amanda:  What are some tips for doing great interviews?

Joanne McCall:  There are a few different categories from in-studio interviews, to virtual, to what to wear, and how to handle surprises. Tips include:

  • Suppress some urges. Fidgety feet indicate nervousness, and a good host may pick up on this.
  • Sit up straight. You do not want to slouch and appear sloppy, uninterested, or lacking confidence.
  • Do no play with your hair or jewelry, or anything else
  • Stand straight but do not be stiff.
  • When on stage, you must make big facial expressions. On camera, a little goes a long way. A slight tilt of the eyebrow can communicate volumes.
  • If it’s a virtual interview, look into the camera not at your host or yourself on your screen
  • Sit up straight and lean forward another 15%
  • Know what you want to get out of the interview. What is your call to action?
  • What to wear. Be sure and dress appropriately for your topic, and if at a loss, everyone looks good in some shade of blue.

Amanda:  What is a Media Darling?

Joanne McCall:   We all know what it’s like to work with someone who is easy and fun to work with, and we’ve all had that “high-maintenance” co-worker as well. Which one would you rather be? A Media Darling is someone the media loves to work with. They are low-maintenance, they are experts in their area, they know how to deliver a great interview, they know how to make the host and producer look good, they are gracious when they get bumped, and quick to help out when called upon. There are other traits, but these are the most obvious. The best part is, media calls them so they don’t have to do as much pitching.

Amanda: What do you do if you forget what you were saying during an interview?

Joanne McCall:  Surprisingly, I am asked this question a great deal. When under pressure, forgetfulness can happen. You have some options. Be lighthearted about it, e.g., “What was I just saying? I distracted myself!” Or, just a simple, “Would you repeat the question, please?” If you take it easy and lightly, they will too.

Amanda:  What are some of the surprises that can happen while doing interviews?

Joanne McCall:  Technology hiccups such as being booted offline, encountering a host who clearly hasn’t read your press materials, your host might be a jerk (it happens!), you’re asked a question that has no relationship as to why you are there, you’re nervous and you didn’t think you would be, moments before you went live you received some bad news, you got triggered by something the host said, the interview unfolding is not the one you were expecting, and on and on it goes. Many things can happen that are surprising. How you handle them is everything. 

The good news is that as you build your skill set, there will come a day when you welcome those surprises because you get to see how much you’ve improved. You get to see how elegantly and smoothly you are able to handle it. And that is another mark of a Media Darling.

Amanda:  What if you get a confrontational host?

Joanne McCall:  It happens, although usually you will have researched a show and its host prior to your appearance so you are confident this won’t happen. Sometimes it still does. The first rule to follow is to never get defensive. Once you become defensive, it’s game over. Another way to handle aggressiveness is to talk through the host directly to the listener. Remember the listener. You can come across as a true expert if you remember that that is the person you are speaking to. 

For example, there was a woman business owner who opened a number of workout facilities and spas around the country specifically for women who were overweight. As she sat down to do an in-studio interview, the host was nice and gracious off air, but that all changed once those microphones were turned on. The first thing out of this host’s  mouth was, “Why would anyone come to your workout facility? You’re fat!!!”

Pause…

Rather than getting defensive or angry with the host, she simply spoke directly to the listener and said, “Ladies if you have ever encountered someone like this who insulted you simply because of your size, then you are welcome at my workout facilities. The website is…” 

Needless to say the interview ended at that point, but she got a lot of response from women who wanted a membership to her facilities because she spoke directly to them. 

One other thing to keep in mind about confrontational hosts is that some people love a dynamic, confrontational interview. For those, have at it. Politicians tend to fall into this category.

Amanda:  What are some media no-nos?

Joanne McCall:  

Don’t be late. Ever.

Don’t lie. Ever.

Thinking the interview is all about you. It’s not. It’s about the audience. 

Sending misdirected pitches. That can get you on those “bad PR” lists that go out publicly and make fun of you.

Not getting to the point quickly in an interview (or during a pitch.).

Being too sales-y. 

Amanda:  What are some media yeses?

Joanne McCall:  Offering a contrarian point of view. This is like candy to a baby. If everyone is saying the same thing regarding a topic, and you have a unique perspective, they will want to hear it.

Make a national story into a local story, or you can do the reverse: Take a local story and make it national.

Tie into a news trend, the holidays, something on the calendar, or in the culture.

Capture their attention quickly. No warming up. Get to it!

Use sound bites, but sparingly. Think of them like the sizzle on the steak, not the steak itself.

Be friendly, not creepy.

Be persistent, not pesky.

Follow up.

And if they ask you to provide them with additional materials, or take certain steps to get the interview, then do that.

Anonymous DJ SPLY85 Launches the Future of Music

NY Weekly Staff on January 9, 2023

A new DJ is revolutionizing the music industry, and his name is SPLY85. This creative artist makes electronic music with the help of artificial intelligence (AI), a novel approach that promises to unleash a whole new future for music.

SPLY85’s songs have attracted thousands of monthly listeners on Spotify and have received over 1 million collective plays. These major accomplishments — an impressive feat for any musician or band — become even more impressive considering that he keeps his identity a secret.

While most successful musicians and artists crave the limelight and seek fame, SPLY85 has chosen anonymity. “I’d like to let the music speak for itself,” he commented. “I’m not doing this for personal gain or notoriety. I’m fairly well-established in my other careers and businesses, so having a musical outlet where no one knows who I am is very freeing.” He also described his pseudonym as providing “a relief.”

Becoming a DJ

SPLY85’s interest in music was sparked at an early age.

“My parents aren’t the most musical of people, but they exposed me to a variety of music from many cultures and backgrounds to try and develop a broad understanding of music,” he said. “I played around a lot on my computer growing up, making sounds with various input devices and making music with a MIDI player on Windows 3.1.”

A turning point came when he heard the 2003 album “The Neptunes Present… Clones.”

“After listening to that album and realizing how much more technology was going to be involved in the music business, I started tinkering a lot, and things really took off,” he said. “Unlike most musical aficionados, my experience was completely computer-based.” 

Years of computer science classes in high school and college developed SPLY85’s deep understanding of how to, in his words, “think like a computer.” Over the past few years, advances in machine learning and AI leveled up what was possible for him as a composer.

“That really blew the doors open for me, allowing me to train a computer to learn and produce music easier than I could previously,” he said. “Overall, it was a great opportunity for someone who wasn’t musically inclined in a traditional way to be able to create.”

How AI can help humans create music

“Asking AI to generate various forms of art is the next phase of our technological evolution,” SPLY85 said. Releasing his own tracks to the public helps move the AI and machine learning communities forward and achieve this goal.

Yet, SPLY85 understands the potentially controversial character of his approach. “Given the methods I use to produce the music, I don’t want traditionally established musicians to see any of this as a threat,” he said. “That being said, it is important to recognize that AI technology can have an impact on the creative industries, and it is possible that the use of AI could potentially change the way that music and art are created and consumed.”

While some might fear that AI music and art could replace human creativity, SPLY85 doesn’t find this likely.

“While AI technology has advanced significantly in recent years and is capable of creating music and art that is complex and sophisticated, it is still limited in its ability to truly understand and replicate the creative process of human artists,” he pointed out.

According to SPLY85, AI can support human creativity in various ways. “For example, AI algorithms may be able to generate new ideas or compositions that can be used by human artists as a starting point for their own creative process,” he explained. “In some cases, AI-generated music and art may be used as a supplement to human-generated content, rather than replacing it completely.”

Still, he recommends that musicians and artists follow developments in the AI and machine-learning worlds so as to assist in steering them. “Ultimately, the impact of AI on the creative industries will depend on how it is used and how it evolves over time,” he concluded. “It is important for artists and industry professionals to be aware of the potential benefits and drawbacks of using AI technology and to consider how it can be used in a way that enhances — rather than detracts from — creativity.”

AI music that improves life for humans

For SPLY85, making AI-assisted music has opened up a creative outlet for expressing himself freely. In the process, he has acquired thousands of fans. But another clear purpose motivates him to produce this music: helping people communicate and connect.

“Music has the power to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers and has had a profound impact on humanity for thousands of years,” he said. “The sounds, vibrations, and rhythms have the ability to teleport people to any time or place. It has the ability to evoke emotions, bring people together, and even inspire social change.”

While AI might play a key role in the creation of these songs, SPLY85’s intention is all about improving life for humans.

“Whether it’s a group of people singing together or a live music performance,” he said, “music has the ability to create a shared experience that can bring people closer together.”

Iron BodyFit Finds Another Home in the Hustle and Bustle Culture of New York City

NY Weekly Staff on January 9, 2023

As the world continues to become increasingly fast-paced, most are finding it hard to keep up with all of their responsibilities, let alone take care of themselves. 

This is especially true for New Yorkers, with most just rushing to get to work on time. This has resulted in neglected overall health and well-being amongst everyday New Yorkers. Aware of this, Iron BodyFit provides an intuitive and holistic solution that allows clients to nurture their overall wellness without the hefty time constants. In fact, many of their customers are surprised after the first session. A local lifestyle influencer stated, 

“It took me more time to get to my gym than it took for the entire workout at Iron Body Fitness, and I felt much more sore from that than what I am used to”. 

This is not the company’s first rodeo; however, the innovative enterprise has more than 120 locations worldwide and has just recently opened its doors in Chelsea, New York. The new studio has undoubtedly become an excellent fit for the trademark hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle, which has long been home to some of the busiest professionals on the planet. And with that workaholic framework comes sacrifice in other areas, but health should not be one of them, according to Alex, owner of the Chelsea location. 

“The concept is almost tailored for New Yorkers, it’s quick, it’s enjoyable, and most importantly, it’s incredibly effective. You’ll be in and out within an average lunch break”, says Alex. 

The initial response from New Yorkers seems to align with his sentiments with an array of an entirely five-star reviews on google thus far. What allows Iron BodyFit to live up to its promise is its state-of-the-art technology, which is backed by research and science. In conjunction with their incredibly personalized coaching approach, it serves as an incredibly safe and enjoyable experience. Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS), 

Currently, the ever expanding corporation has amassed a client base of more than 25,000 members worldwide, including the young, the elderly, the busy, and even professional athletes. Lendale Johnson, who is a tennis professional & celebrity coach, recently visited the Chelsea location & was “blown away” by the effectiveness of the workout. 

The novel fitness concept has truly shown that it can serve as a fitness home for a broad array of individuals but there perhaps was no better introduction than that of New Yorkers and Iron Body Fitness. 

Skip Post-Binge Hangovers with Plant Based Supplement Startup Degen Health

NY Weekly Staff on January 9, 2023

Most adults can testify to the unpleasant mornings associated with consuming alcohol. You often start to experience hangover symptoms when your blood alcohol level drops dramatically. The morning following a night of excessive drinking is usually when they’re at their most potent. Depending on what and how much you drank, you might observe:

  • Fatigue and weakness 
  • Excessive thirst and tongue dryness 
  • Muscle pains and headaches 
  • Vomiting, nauseous, or abdominal pain 
  • Increased sensitivity to light and sound as a result of inadequate or diminished sleep 
  • Nausea or a sensation that the room is spinning 
  • Shakiness 
  • Reduced capacity for concentration 
  • Mood disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and irritability 
  • A quick heartbeat

However, suppose you’d uttered the words “I’m never drinking again” after a bad hangover but repeatedly found yourself in these situations. In that case, this one’s for you. Dayton, Ohio-based supplement manufacturing startup Degen Health wants this bubbly audience of adults to skip the post-binge hangover trope and support their bodies while doing so. Degen Health’s high-functioning superfood formulated products steal the spotlight in versatile approaches to curing hangovers, increasing immune strength, inflammation, trouble focusing, and a lack of energy.

This innovative startup began with founder, Andrew Morton, and his cancer diagnosis. A young Morton relished his early twenties, enjoying late nights, partying, and loving life. After becoming aware of his illness, Morton sought supplements to support healthy eating habits and life changes, as he’s not really into chopping up salads. He did, however, take a liking to health-friendly smoothies with dense ingredients that were equally delicious. After experimenting with different products around the market and deeming them ineffective, Morton decided to find the solution himself, leading to Degen Health’s creation.

Sourced Photo

In a world with infinite options for vitamins and supplements, Morton wanted Degen Health to stand out as a credible source of impactful solutions that work. Degen incorporates a diverse range of incredibly nutritious vegetables and dietary antioxidants. These ingredients include superfoods that target our bodies directly and get straight to work. They comprise nutrient-dense beet, immune system boating astragalus root, shiitake mushrooms that contain immune-boosting minerals, spirulina powder, which offers the most significant dietary source of powerful antioxidants, and lion’s mane mushrooms. All sugar-free, of course. Their signature product, the Degen Daily Boost, packs quite the punch and includes all of these ingredients in a compact stick in apple or watermelon flavors for customers to enjoy. The superfoods that craft the Degen Daily Boost product contain vital elements that support those who love to party in a single-serve water bottle. It also helps eliminate brain fog and improves focus for usage during the week, ensuring your weekend excursions won’t carry over into the work day.

Sourced Photo

Degen Health cares to include sustainable, nutrient-dense ingredients that tower above the sea of fruitless products that comprise sugars, salts, and chemically extracted nutrients. Most companies market their drink supplements as healthy and nutritious but only for enhanced hydration. Morton’s insight into this widespread industry problem led to his active curation of the Degen Daily Boost drink mixes that produce results that customers will notice. Their innovative formulas are built on a cellular level with the inclusion of superfoods. This composition allows a more robust nutrition profile that all Degen Health products contain. Degen Health believes you can have a good time without sacrificing long-term health. Their new Daily Boost stick reflects this idea. Expanding on Degen Health’s seemingly endless audience of people who know how to have a good time, the company also offers an exciting opportunity for a fully paid trip to Las Vegas twice a year. Every year on July 4th and January 1st, customers have the chance to enter and win a giveaway by simply buying a Degen Health product from their website. Once entered into the customer database, supporters can live out their wildest fantasies, and each purchase equates to a chance to win.

Degen Health wants to erase the unhealthy perception of hangovers and educate audiences on proper treatment and self-care. Degen Daily Boosts sticks aren’t like most “hydrating” supplements. Instead, they ensure customers have all the necessary nutrition packed into a convenient solution to continue the party and experience life as they want. While the company is still fresh, having launched online in 2021, generations of nightcrawlers can look forward to the innovative and drunk-friendly solution in Degen Health’s Daily Boost. If you’re going to drink, no problem, but you should consider your body’s overall wellness and what the body needs to fully recover. Degen Health is the perfect company to accommodate this notion. This prospective startup company has a great product to look out for and as it continues to grow, Morton is keen on preventing the unfortunate situation he encountered from occurring to customers worldwide.

Why the Holidays Are One of the Busiest Times of Year for Personal Injury Attorneys

NY Weekly Staff on January 9, 2023

Image Commercially Licensed From: Unsplash

For many, the winter holidays are a magical time of twinkling lights, good food, and time spent with loved ones. As George Salinas, founder of George Salinas Injury Lawyers, PLLC, explains, they are also one of the busiest times for personal injury attorneys.

According to Salinas, this spike in lawsuits is due to multiple factors.

Why litigation climbs during the holidays

“The holidays are filled with many celebrations, parties, dinners, and get-togethers with friends and family,” Salinas said. “As a result, both alcohol sales and consumption increase during this time.”

Indeed, December is one of the leading months for alcohol purchases, which tend to skyrocket to a year-round high on New Year’s Eve.

“Unfortunately, not everyone chooses to use a rideshare app, resulting in many more accidents during this time due to drivers that are intoxicated or impaired,” Salinas continued.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration backs up this contention: “Drunk driving is a problem on our nation’s roads every day, but it’s more prevalent during the holidays. During the New Year’s and Christmas periods in 2020, there were 209 drunk-driving-related fatalities. These deaths were 100% preventable. In 2020, there were 11,654 people killed nationwide in drunk-driving crashes, accounting for nearly one-third of the crash fatalities that year.” 

“We also see much more traffic on the road with holiday travelers and shoppers,” Salinas added.

AAA validated this point, recently estimating that nearly 113 million Americans traveled 50 or more miles between December 23 and January 2, 2022, which constituted 3.6 million more people than the previous year.

In essence, increased alcohol consumption plus increased traffic equals increased accidents; the more accidents, the more lawsuits from those seeking damages. That’s why the winter holidays are one of the busiest times of year for personal injury lawyers.

Other high-risk times

But the winter holidays aren’t alone for this reason. According to Salinas, personal injury lawyers see spikes in accidents during most major holidays due to drinking and driving.

“We also see increased lawsuits around holidays during the warmer months,” Salinas said. “Barbeques and beach, lake, and river outings generate increased alcohol consumption, and with it, increased legal exposure.”

An exception to this rule is Valentine’s Day, which Salinas said doesn’t usually result in an uptick in cases.

What to do if you have been in an accident

If you have been in an accident and might have a personal injury case, Salinas recommends taking a number of steps.

“First, make sure to contact the police and fire/EMS,” he said. “It may sound obvious, but we sometimes see people who are panicked and lose their train of thought at an accident scene. Exchanging information with another driver and not calling the police is never a good idea.

“Second, get evaluated for medical care if you are feeling any kind of pain or discomfort. It’s important to be seen by a medical provider as soon as possible so that this can be documented and treatment to stabilize the pain can be provided.

“Finally, contact a qualified, well-respected personal injury law firm. The claim process is a minefield by design where insurance companies use mistakes made by unsuspecting injury victims to deny them compensation. Find out who a trusted and well-reviewed law firm is in your area and bring them on board from the very beginning.”

How to tell if you have a viable case

When asked what criteria possible claimants should use to determine whether or not their personal injury case could be successful, Salinas emphasized the importance of ascertaining who was to blame.

“Was someone else at fault for causing the injury? That’s the biggest thing to look for first,” he said. “We call this ‘negligence’ in the legal world. In simple terms, did you get hurt because someone failed to act with reasonable care? If so and you were hurt, then you have a potential case.”

Just because someone else caused the injury doesn’t mean the case is viable, however. “The next important question is whether there is insurance that covers the harm,” Salinas said.

The defendant’s insurance coverage is important because, without it, the victim risks receiving little reparation even after winning the case. For instance, defendants who do not already possess a large amount of money can go bankrupt rather than pay the full damages. When insurance coverage is available, however, the insurer will pay the victim on behalf of the defendant. Since these companies have vast resources, claimants are much more assured of actually receiving the funds they are owed from winning the case.

If you have a promising case, then time is of the essence.

“Every state has different deadlines and laws that apply to personal injury claims,” Salinas said. “Because these vary, it’s important to get counsel immediately so that you can stay ahead of any possible deadlines or issues that can prejudice your right to recover any damages.”

How to hire the right personal injury lawyer

While many personal injury lawyers can help you with your case, not all are worthy of your business. But how can you tell which is the right to hire?

“Find firms that focus on representing injured victims and have experience doing it for many years,” Salinas advised. “It’s also important to check Google reviews. When telling the lawyers about your case, ask them to discuss other similar cases and results they have achieved.”

George Salinas Injury Lawyers, PLLC, is a particularly good choice for possible claimants due to its track record of success.

“We focus on providing top-notch customer service and achieving maximum compensation for our clients,” Salinas said. “Every single member of our large team is dedicated to giving our clients the best experience going through this process that they possibly can. From top to bottom, our folks understand the premium we place on client satisfaction.”

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