Unveiling HeIsTheArtist’s ‘Dreaming in Emerald City’: A Christian R&B Masterpiece

NY Weekly Staff on December 6, 2023

Renowned Christian R&B artist HeIsTheArtist leaves an indelible mark on the sands of music time with the release of his latest EP, ‘Dreaming in Emerald City.’ Released on July 28, this masterpiece is a whirlwind of poignantly assembled tracks that bear the unmistakable markings of this contemporary sensation. Drawing inspiration from supreme classics like ‘The Wizard of Oz’ and ‘The West Side Story,’ this talented singer-songwriter combines Broadway-style Neo-Soul with a modern twist.

‘Dreaming in Emerald City’ is a 6-track assemblage that kicks off solidly with a cover of Judy Garland’s quintessential song ‘I’m Always Chasing Rainbows.’ Pun intended, HeisTheArtist chases this ‘Rainbow’ with his bespoke original, ‘Mi Amor.’ This song is a beautiful homage to the movies that inspired the EP but also creatively introduces the narrative of empathy for those yearning for a taste of the sweet and better life.

As the EP unravels, listeners are pure-heartedly guided through the diverse layers of love. Covers of ‘Lovin’You’ by Minnie Riperton and ‘I Believe in You and Me’ by Whitney Houston paint vivid imagery of love’s omnipotent presence everywhere. These two songs are designed to inspire and ignite the flame of love and endurance in the listener’s heart, encouraging them to believe in their dreams and aspirations right where they stand.

With an EP that is already so rich, HeIsTheArtist adds more depth with the cover of ‘Diamonds’ by Rihanna and ‘Brown Skin’ by India. Arie. These anthems drive a resounding message to listeners about the importance of self-love and breaking free from societal expectations. This connects beautifully with the overall theme of the EP, encapsulating the glamor of meaningful dreams and grit

‘Dreaming in Emerald City,’ HeIsTheArtist’s newest EP, was released to coincide with Ashura, the Islamic holiday celebrating Moses’s parting of the Red Sea and the Israelites’ journey ‘Home.’ This strategic decision further illuminates the intrinsic narrative of the EP and deepens its connection to spirituality and redemption.

Leading the pack in this robust EP is the single ‘I Believe in You and Me,’ which has met resounding applause in the UK, ascending up the iTunes R&B Chart to clinch the Top 10 spot. The original ‘Mi Amor’ followed suit, ranking #2 on the same chart. The EP’s tracks have garnered over 200k Spotify streams, displaying its widespread success.

Viewers are encouraged to watch the captivating video of ‘I Believe in You and Me’ at YouTube and partake in this divinely orchestrated musical treat by HeIsTheArtist.

As with any artist worthy of acclaim, HeIsTheArtist does not only let his voice be heard in the body of lyrics but also etches his imprint on his music with the audacious patterns he seamlessly weaves together. His latest EP, ‘Dreaming in Emerald City,’ is a testament to this fact, blending Broadway style with contemporary R&B to create a stunning exploration of love, self, and dreams.

Visit www.artistecard.com/heistheartist to explore more about HeIsTheArtist’s music journey and keep up-to-date with his latest projects. This multi-talented artist invites you into his world, a realm where dreams are not just figments of the imagination but precursors of reality. It’s clear that ‘Dreaming in Emerald City’ is more than an EP; it’s a heartfelt message delivered in layers of inspiring melodies and thought-provoking lyrics. HeIsTheArtist is truly an artist, both by name and by deed, contributing his uniquely distinctive voice to the global music scene.

No crown is without a gem, and ‘Dreaming in Emerald City’ is, without question, a sparkling treasure in HeIsTheArtist’s crown. This latest EP is more than just music to your ears; it’s a soulful narrative that transcends the limits of sound and rhythm to etch itself deeply into the listener’s heart. Boundlessly inspired, HeIsTheArtist continues his journey, leaving listeners anticipating what thrilling masterpiece he will unveil next.

Ricardo Amper: Disrupting the World of Digital Identity

NY Weekly Staff on December 6, 2023

Ricardo Amper is a disruptive force in the evolving identity verification landscape. With a career that spans over two decades, Amper has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation. He is a seasoned entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Incode Technologies, a company at the forefront of the digital identity industry. His journey is marked by a strong commitment to reshaping the way we verify and authenticate our identities.

A Trailblazing Entrepreneurial Journey

Ricardo Amper embarked on his entrepreneurial journey at a young age. At the age of 19, long before the advent of Facebook and the modern social media landscape, he founded a social media network company in Mexico named La Burbuja Networks. This early foray into entrepreneurship foreshadowed his future endeavors and laid the foundation for his career. 

In 2003, Amper co-founded Amco Foods, a functional beverage startup. This venture would prove to be a pivotal moment in his career as it was eventually acquired by the Bimbo Group, one of the largest consumer goods companies in the world. The acquisition of Amco Foods by such a significant player in the consumer goods industry is a testament to Amper’s leadership and entrepreneurial skills

This was just the start of this entrepreneurial journey. He later assumed the role of CEO and CTO of his family’s business, Amco Group. The company, initially a chemical distribution business, underwent a remarkable transformation under his leadership. 

The transformation and reinvigoration of Amco Group ultimately led to the company’s acquisition by the Brenntag Group. This successful transition and sale underscored Amper’s prowess in creating and growing businesses across diverse sectors.

A Pivot to Incode Technologies

In 2015, Amper moved to the San Francisco Bay Area. It was in this dynamic and innovative environment that he founded Incode Technologies. The company’s initial focus was on photo-sharing, with a unique twist. Incode’s platform enabled the automatic sharing of photos using facial recognition technology, a concept that foreshadowed the company’s eventual pivot toward the digital identity industry.

This pivot to the identity industry marked a turning point for Incode Technologies. The company evolved into a pioneer in the field, offering some of the world’s most advanced and accurate identity verification technology. In a world where digital identities play an increasingly pivotal role, Incode’s solutions have the potential to transform the way we verify and authenticate our identities.

Disrupting the Digital Identity Landscape

Ricardo Amper revealed the disruptive nature of the work he and Incode Technologies are undertaking. The central theme of their mission is to eliminate traditional paper-based identification systems. Paper IDs, which have been used for thousands of years, are often the foundation of our identity verification processes. In many cases, it is human beings who verify these paper IDs, introducing a significant margin of error due to factors such as bias and fatigue.

Amper’s mission is to replace archaic paper IDs with automated AI-driven identity verification systems. In doing so, Incode Technologies aims to make the verification process not only more accurate but also more secure. The benefits of this transformation are multi-fold, extending to a variety of industries such as government, financial services, healthcare, travel and hospitality, and retail.

One of the key advantages of Incode’s solutions is the ability to provide users with a privacy-centric experience. In an age where data privacy and identity security are paramount, this approach offers a significant advantage to both businesses and individuals.

Mentorship and the Power of Learning

Throughout his journey, Ricardo Amper has benefitted from the guidance and mentorship of individuals who played pivotal roles in his life. He points to his father as his early mentor, emphasizing the importance of trust and daring to dream big. Amper’s father introduced him to the world of business at a young age, allowing him to learn by observing and participating in real-world experiences.

In more recent years, Amper has found a mentor and coach based in Jerusalem, an Israeli Rabbi, psychologist, and businessman. This mentor has played a significant role in helping Amper align his purpose with his values.

Disruption: Balancing Innovation and Tradition

The concept of disruption is multifaceted. While it is often associated with positive change and innovation, it can also be a source of pain and discomfort. Disruption challenges the status quo, and whether it is considered positive or negative depends on the long-term benefits it brings to society.

Ricardo Amper emphasizes that the longevity of traditional systems or structures doesn’t necessarily equate to superiority. For instance, the use of paper-based identification has been in practice for thousands of years, but as we transition into a digital society, it’s essential to evaluate the effectiveness and security of these systems. 

Amper believes that transitioning from physical, manual identity verification systems to digital, automated solutions will ultimately benefit society. It will lead to enhanced scalability, improved accuracy, and greater protection of individual privacy. The transformation may introduce short-term challenges, but the long-term benefits are likely to outweigh the initial discomfort. 

The Power of Strengths and Self-Improvement

Ricardo Amper attributes much of his personal and professional growth to the book “Now Discover Your Strengths” by Gallup. The book underscores the importance of focusing on one’s strengths rather than trying to fix weaknesses. Amper’s interpretation of this principle is reflected in his management style at Incode Technologies. He encourages his employees to leverage their strengths to achieve their best performance.

A Life Lesson Quote: “The Limit is a Decision”

Amper’s favorite life lesson quote, “The limit is a decision,” carries a powerful message. It emphasizes the role of personal agency in determining one’s limits. It’s a reminder that we have the power to define our boundaries and decide how far we are willing to go to achieve our goals.

Inspiring a Movement: Thinking Big

Ricardo Amper’s vision for inspiring a movement centers on encouraging individuals to think big, cast aside limitations, and relentlessly pursue their dreams. In a world where innovation and change are the driving forces of progress, Amper’s call to always strive for more resonates as a powerful message of growth and transformation.

Ricardo Amper’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by a series of remarkable achievements and a commitment to disrupting the digital identity landscape. His work at Incode Technologies represents a significant step in reshaping how we verify and authenticate our identities in an increasingly digital world. 

4 Tips for Navigating Emotional Changes Throughout the Month

NY Weekly Staff on December 6, 2023

Emotional changes can be a powerful indicator of your overall health and phase of your cycle. Hormonal shifts throughout the month can significantly influence your moods, thoughts, and behaviors. While these changes are natural, understanding how to navigate them is essential for achieving emotional equilibrium and peace. Here are some tips for navigating evolving emotions throughout the month. 

1. Understand Your Cycle 

Becoming in tune with your menstrual cycle is crucial for navigating emotional changes throughout the month. Each of the four phases (menstruation, follicular, ovulation, and luteal) comes with different hormone levels, affecting your moods and energy. Mastering cycle syncing allows you to adapt your lifestyle habits to align with the current phase. When you understand the patterns, you can anticipate when emotional changes might occur and take proactive steps to manage them. 

During the premenstrual phase, as estrogen levels drop and progesterone rises, many women experience symptoms like mood swings, irritability, fatigue, and a desire for rest. Let this be a cue to take it easier on yourself and prioritize rest. As your period ends and estrogen levels rise, you can use it as an opportunity to tackle your to-do list and embrace the feel-good moments. 

Tracking your cycle is one of the easiest ways to keep up with your current phase. Period tracking apps are a great place to input your data so you can pick up on patterns and prepare accordingly. Talk to a healthcare provider if your cycle is irregular or your hormone fluctuations are hard to manage. They may suggest hormonal birth control options like Junel Fe to regulate your periods and help you regain control over your cycle. 

2. Cultivate a Mindfulness Practice 

Mindfulness practices are valuable tools for dealing with shifts in energy and hormone levels. Cultivating a practice encourages you to stay grounded, self-aware, and responsive to your emotions rather than reactive. Some of the most accessible and effective forms of mindfulness are breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga. These practices encourage you to stay present in your body and tap into your emotions.

Whenever feelings begin to fluctuate or intensify, stop and take a mental scan of your body. Start at your toes and work your way up to your head while paying attention to any physical sensations or areas of tension. These scans allow you to recognize and process your emotions rather than just setting them aside. For instance, you might experience increased heart rate, chest pains, or digestive issues when you’re feeling anxious. Recognizing these sensations and properly labeling the emotion is crucial in moving through them. 

Your emotional needs may change during the different phases of your cycle. Modify your practices to suit your evolving state and focus on the most effective techniques at any given time. For example, when hormone levels dip after the ovulation phase, dive into routines with space for extra gentleness and reflection, like journaling or at-home yoga. 

3. Talk to Someone 

Talking to someone, whether a therapist or a loved one, can be immensely helpful for dealing with changing feelings. Firstly, opening up to someone about how you’re doing can provide emotional validation and release. Sharing your journey reminds you that what you’re experiencing is likely normal and manageable. In addition, bottling up emotions can intensify their impact, so talking about them helps you constructively manage your feelings. 

Mental health professionals are trained to help you gain insights into your emotions and behaviors. Talking to a therapist can be an empowering and effective tool for navigating emotional changes, whether from hormonal fluctuations or another cause. They can provide evidence-based techniques for dealing with these changes effectively. Therapists also give an objective and non-judgemental perspective to your situation, which might be difficult to get from friends or family. 

However, your loved ones can also be great for emotional support. Allowing someone to walk with you through difficult experiences can lead to improved communication and a deeper sense of connection. It can also prevent isolation, which can be especially damaging when working through more challenging emotional shifts. 

4. Prioritize Rest and Play 

Prioritizing rest and play is key to caring for your well-being throughout the month. Rest is particularly vital for hormone regulation. Adequate sleep maintains hormonal balance, which is critical for emotional stability. When you are well-rested, you have more energy to cope with challenges and maintain a positive outlook. On the other hand, chronic sleep deprivation could lead to a range of physical and mental health issues, exacerbating negative emotions. 

Engaging in play and recreational activities is an excellent way to reduce the stress that inevitably comes along during your cycle. Play releases endorphins that help you feel good and make emotional changes feel less severe. Physical activity also provides an outlet for releasing pent-up emotions and energy in a healthy way. In addition, many forms of play involve social interaction, which fosters a sense of connection and support. This social engagement is vital to emotional well-being and caring for yourself. 

Embracing Change 

Managing and understanding your emotional shifts is crucial for your overall health and staying attuned to your cycle. Remember that it isn’t always about eliminating these fluctuations but rather about finding harmony within yourself. This attunement empowers you to navigate changes with grace and resilience. Embracing the highs and lows is a testament to your self-awareness and strength. 

What to Do if You’re Arrested for DWI in NC

NY Weekly Staff on December 6, 2023

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

If you get pulled over for DWI in Raleigh, North Carolina, you could face some stiff penalties. You could be stopped for more than just suspicion of alcohol — other things that can impair you include illegal drugs and prescription drugs. Once allowed to do so, contacting criminal lawyers Raleigh, NC should be a high priority. But there are some things to know about the entire process so that it won’t be a shock if it happens to you, especially if this is your first negative interaction with the police in your life. 

When You’re Initially Pulled Over

The main thing you want to avoid here is conversing with the police officer. Don’t say anything even remotely incriminating, including whether you’ve been drinking or not.

If they do wind up arresting you, make sure that they read you your rights. Then you could be brought to the police station. 

When You’re Brought to the Police Station

If the police find enough evidence that you have been driving while intoxicated, they will handcuff you and take you to the police station. You may be put in a cell until they determine that you’re not impaired anymore. The people at the station will take your possessions and put them in holding — you will be given a list of them so that you can claim them later. 

Finally, you can contact a family member or an attorney. If they don’t answer, you usually get more than one chance to do that. Once that happens, you’ll be put in a holding cell until your bail is paid or if you’re released on your own recognizance. The North Carolina DMV will suspend your license for 30 days due to your DWI arrest, though you can apply for Limited Driving Privileges.

Finding An Attorney

You need to have someone working with you in a legal capacity as soon as possible. There are several ways that you can find a Raleigh DWI attorney. A family member might know someone. You might have seen an advertisement for one. Then there’s the internet. You can find ones in your area with a simple online search. The best part about that is that you can read reviews of what other clients have said about a particular lawyer. 

Once you’ve found one, you want to make sure that they are responsive. The attorney should always return your calls or emails within a reasonable amount of time. They should listen to the particulars before taking your case. Once they do that, and you retain them, they will look through the police report and any witness reports to see if there were any irregularities. Was the sobriety test properly administered? 

The Court Process

If it’s a fairly open-and-shut case, they will work to get you the best possible outcome. You might only have to pay a fine and not any jail time. An experienced lawyer will know what to do. The legal system can be very complex. You need to have someone who is very familiar with North Carolina DWI law. That way, you’ll have the best chance and have every corner covered. You’ll be confident when you’re in the courtroom. 

DWI is very serious and there can be a lot of different penalties, depending on if it’s a first-time offense and whether anyone was hurt or worse. By getting legal representation, you will be covered. 

Ricky Hirsch: Redefining Real Estate with Vision and Innovation

NY Weekly Staff on December 6, 2023

The Genesis of a Real Estate Visionary

In the intricate world of real estate, success is not merely about constructing buildings; it’s about foreseeing future landscapes. Ricky Hirsch, the founder of Fulfill The Dream, embodies this ethos. From his early days, Hirsch exhibited a keen interest in property development, a passion that would eventually shape his professional journey. His entrepreneurial spirit was evident from the start, marked by a relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence.

Early Endeavors and Strategic Foundations

Hirsch’s journey in real estate began with identifying and leveraging unique market opportunities. His approach, grounded in a deep understanding of market dynamics, allowed him to make strategic investments that multiplied his initial ventures significantly. This early success laid the foundation for Fulfill The Dream, a company that would soon become synonymous with cutting-edge property development.

Navigating Market Challenges

Hirsch’s path has not been without obstacles. The Global Financial Crisis posed significant challenges, but Hirsch’s response was not to retreat but to rethink and innovate. He introduced unique development models that not only weathered the storm but also set new benchmarks in profitability and efficiency. This period underscored Hirsch’s resilience and his ability to turn challenges into opportunities.

Pioneering Modular Construction

One of Hirsch’s most significant contributions to the real estate sector has been his pioneering use of modular construction. This innovative approach revolutionized the efficiency and sustainability of building projects. By constructing major components off-site, Hirsch’s projects could circumvent traditional construction bottlenecks, significantly reducing development time and costs.

Expanding Horizons

Hirsch’s ambition was never limited to local markets. His vision propelled Fulfill The Dream onto the global stage, expanding into international markets and diversifying his portfolio. His projects span various regions, each reflecting his ability to adapt to different market conditions and leverage local resources.

A Future-Oriented Approach

In his future-oriented approach, Ricky Hirsch envisions a paradigm shift in property development that transcends the conventional boundaries of construction. Beyond merely constructing buildings, Hirsch is driven by a commitment to crafting vibrant, community-centric environments that stand as testaments to sustainable urban living. His foresight extends beyond the immediate construction phase, emphasizing long-term sustainability and the well-being of the communities his projects touch. 

Hirsch is dedicated to embracing the latest technologies that not only enhance the efficiency of construction processes but also contribute to the overall eco-friendliness of his developments. This forward-looking mindset positions Fulfill The Dream as a pioneer in the industry, as Hirsch tirelessly explores innovative solutions and implements sustainable practices to ensure that his projects remain at the forefront of modern urban development.

Conclusion

Ricky Hirsch’s journey in real estate is a testament to the power of vision, innovation, and resilience. His impact on the industry goes beyond the physical structures he has built; it’s about the new standards he has set and the future he envisions for urban development. As he continues to chart new paths in the property development sector, his story remains a source of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and a blueprint for success in the challenging world of real estate.

Howard Hughes Set to Open Huge Office Project in Southwest Las Vegas Valley in 2024

NY Weekly Staff on December 6, 2023

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

Scheduled to open its doors in 2024, Howard Hughes Holdings’ new office project, the Meridian campus in the southwest Las Vegas Valley, is already making waves in the commercial real estate world. Nestled near the 215 Beltway on Town Center Drive, this expansive project is expected to tackle the high demand for office spaces with its stellar two three-story office buildings, centralized lobby, and sprawling area of 147,000 square feet.

Behind the leasing duties of this project is industry titan Cushman & Wakefield. The bullish prognostications of their senior director, Charles Van Geel, further add fuel to the fire of anticipation for Meridian. According to him, a surge of tenants competing for a slice of Meridian’s state-of-the-art facilities can be expected as Meridian’s location is right in the heart of one of the most desirable areas in all of Las Vegas.

The Southwest Valley region is seeing a spike in demand for office spaces, with the average rent per square foot being a notable $31.09. This outpaces the average rent per square foot in the city of Las Vegas, which stands at $26.06. But why is there such high demand for office space in Las Vegas, Nevada, even as nationwide trends indicate a fall in such demands?

To begin with, Las Vegas has a robust local economy rooted in numerous sectors like tourism, hospitality, as well as the blooming tech and finance industries. This strong economy paves the way for a surge in companies on the lookout for office space that can accommodate their escalating needs.

Unlike many metropolises grappling with an excess of office space, Las Vegas is uniquely positioned with a limited supply of such spaces – particularly modern and high-quality buildings. This distinct characteristic propels a competitive market and swells demand, thus creating advantageous conditions for landlords.

Additionally, Las Vegas is witnessing a population influx. The city is increasingly attractive to young professionals and entrepreneurs seeking a dynamic, affordable lifestyle. This demographic surge further magnifies demand for office space as new businesses take root and existing ones seek expansions.

Contrary to national trends favoring remote work, businesses in Las Vegas are showing a preference for a hybrid work model. Consequently, employees still require physical office spaces for collaborative endeavors and meetings and to reinforce company culture, even while working part-time remotely.

Furthermore, companies are prioritizing employee well-being and productivity and are increasingly seeking modern, amenity-rich office spaces. Cue Las Vegas and its influx of novel developments, prepared to cater to these ambitious needs. Offering a myriad of features such as fitness centers, outdoor spaces, and collaborative work zones, the city is ready to meet the shimmering “flight to quality.”

The Meridian will certainly be at the forefront of catering to this demand with elegance and efficiency. The Meridian, and developments like it, are set to roll out a promising future for the office space market in the southwest Las Vegas valley.

Even though the specifics of the tenants for the Meridian campus remain undisclosed until the time of opening, industry experts remain convinced that due to the surging local demand, the property will fill quickly once its construction reaches completion. In essence, the Meridian, with its prime location, ample space, and potential to cater to the ever-evolving needs of businesses, is poised to become a sought-after destination for enterprises in the southwest Las Vegas Valley.

From Cold Calls to Billion-Dollar Deals: The Unconventional Journey Of The PX Founders

NY Weekly Staff on December 6, 2023

In the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, two innovators have pioneered, challenging the status quo and redefining the way businesses operate. Alisha Conlin-Hurd and Matt Craike, co-founders of Persuasion Experience (PX), are shaking up the industry with their revolutionary approach to marketing and business growth.

Alisha Conlin-Hurd’s story reads like a modern-day success novel. From starting in cold calling, selling electricity, to becoming one of the top 10 reps in a large call center at the age of 19, Alisha’s journey is a testament to resilience and innovation. Building sales funnels and conversion rate optimization teams from scratch at companies like King Kong and Foundr, she created over 500 landing pages and funnels across 120+ niches.

Breaking free from the 9-5 grind at the age of 27, Alisha has worked with billion-dollar brands like Linktree, Wayflyer, and Kogan. Her brainchild, the Golden Hippo Offer system, has transformed businesses, propelling them from $400 side hustle clients to $40,000 partnerships. In her own words, “If you truly have a product or service that helps people, you have an ethical responsibility to get it into as many lives as possible.”

Matt Craike’s journey is no less inspiring. Starting as a debt collector, transitioning to an accountant, and later becoming a videographer, Matt’s diverse skill set laid the foundation for his success. Working for two of Australia’s Sharks from Shark Tank in their 8 and 9 figure enterprises, Matt’s experience spans various industries. Teaming up with Alisha, Matt’s focus shifted to financial literacy and creating a plan for freedom. They saved six months of “f*ck you” money, quit their jobs on a Tuesday in September, and embarked on a journey to help businesses worldwide.

Alisha and Matt want to save awesome businesses from failing because, often, these businesses can really do some good. The problem? Many of them struggle with selling and marketing. With Persuasion Experience, their mission is to help tons of fantastic businesses worldwide reach their full potential by getting more people to use their products and services. Alisha puts it simply: “If your product helps people, it’s your job to share it with as many folks as you can.”

PX’s Golden Hippo Offer system is a game-changer. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not about getting more traffic but converting that traffic effectively. Alisha and Matt’s system focuses on understanding the market, standing out, and providing unmatched value. With 600+ businesses across 120+ niches under their belt, PX has proven that the key to success lies in “funnel vision,” not tunnel vision.

Persuasion Experience is not just a success story; it’s a movement. Alisha and Matt are now opening the doors to ‘The PX Accelerator,’ a coaching program designed to help agency owners build a Freedom Business. It offers a plug-and-play system to become an authority, build a lead generation machine, and convert leads into high-paying clients.

In the competitive realm of business, PX stands as a beacon of change. Their ethos, “Change your offer, change your business,” resonates with entrepreneurs worldwide, inspiring them to stand out, charge what they’re worth, and convert traffic into high-quality leads. As PX continues to make waves, it’s clear that the future of business lies in understanding your market, providing value, and, above all, embracing the power of persuasion.

 

Designing the Future with AI: A Conversation with Visionary Designer Yueran Zhao

NY Weekly Staff on December 6, 2023

Interviewer: Yueran, thank you for joining us. Can you share a bit about your background and how you ventured into the realm of product design?

Yueran Zhao: Thank you for having me! My journey into product design began with a deep passion for creative problem-solving through a multi-disciplinary approach. I have an academic background in economics, technology, and human-computer interaction, and being a product designer presented an exciting opportunity for me to integrate knowledge from all these fields and apply them creatively in my work. Early in my career, I had the chance to work on several E-commerce as well as social-impact driven projects and developed a keen interest in creating innovative solutions that can bring both positive social and business impact to the world, and that has been my passion ever since.

Interviewer: Fascinating! Now, let’s dive into your current work at Meta. Could you tell us about your role as a product designer and your involvement with AI for creator tools?

Yueran Zhao: Sure! At Meta, my role as a product designer revolves around crafting AI-driven tools within Meta Business Suite and the Facebook App, specifically tailored to empower content creators. For example, one of these projects involves leveraging machine learning and AI technology to automatically extract the highlights of a long-form video. The goal is to simplify the short-form video creation process for creators, saving them time while making their content more appealing to their audience.  

Interviewer: That sounds like an exciting project! What went into the design process of such an innovative product?

Yueran Zhao: I’d say, user-centered thinking is key to my design process. Understanding and addressing users’ authentic needs and challenges is my No.1 task. In this specific case, I collaborated with user researchers to gather insights into content creators’ daily workflow. We discovered that most creators find the process of crafting polished short-form videos daunting and laborious, which means there’s an opportunity for us to improve on, and that’s what we did. Our AI tool streamlines this process by automatically generating two highlight clips from the uploaded long-form video. Users can effortlessly select the most compelling clip, and later use it as a captivating trailer to boost views for the long-form video. We believe this new tool will benefit millions of creators on Meta by simplifying their workflow and ultimately saving them time.

Interviewer: Fantastic! Thank you for sharing that. Shifting gears a bit, can you share your experiences working on AI and machine learning-based products at your previous company StitchFix? How do you think that has prepared you for the current role at Meta?

Yueran Zhao: Certainly! My time at StitchFix was an enriching experience. I had the opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of machine learning to enhance the personalized shopping journey for fashion customers. Collaborating with data scientists and engineers, I contributed to the birth of a new product, StitchFix direct buy (later rebranded as Freestyle) that not only simplifies the traditional online shopping process for customers but provides them with tailored fashion recommendations, making their experience more enjoyable and personalized. And that system complexity I needed to design for, and the AI and machine-learning aspect of it, certainly prepared me for the work I do here at Meta.

Interviewer: When you say “personalized shopping journey for fashion customers”, what does that exactly mean, like a personal stylist service powered by AI?

Yueran Zhao: Exactly! So the customers start by taking a short quiz and sharing their aesthetic preferences, sizes and budget, and then they can enter their own personal style shop where they’re presented with a feed of 24 looks tailored for them using machine learning and AI technologies. Those feeds also change constantly based on Stitch Fix’s current inventory, and the customer can directly purchase their preferred looks and items without paying the subscription fee. The best part is, whatever they choose to purchase will be able to fit their style and size preferences because our state-of-the-art machine learning models have optimized for that, so you’re right, in essence, Freestyle is like a personal stylist plus a constantly updating clothes and fashion store only presents the most suitable items for a customer.

Interviewer: Amazing! It sounds like you’ve had an impactful career at both these companies. When working on AI projects, how does your background in technology shape your design process?

Yueran Zhao: A good understanding of the capabilities as well as limitations of current AI technology provides a solid foundation for my design. For example, when working on the Stitch Fix Freestyle product, I collaborated heavily with machine learning scientists to learn about the latest advancements in those algorithms in order to find a balance between what the technology can offer and what the ideal customer experience should look like. Sometimes I also provide feedback to our machine learning scientist about what kind of algorithm needs to be developed from the end-user perspective. I believe this tech-savviness and ability to translate the experience into technological demands is a great asset when working on AI-related projects with a cross-functional team.

Interviewer: Impressive! Lastly, looking ahead, what excites you about the future of AI in product design?

Yueran Zhao: The future of AI in product design holds immense potential. I am excited about the prospect of AI becoming an even more integral part of the creative process, augmenting human creativity rather than replacing them. As AI technologies evolve, they will continue to play a pivotal role in enhancing user experiences by providing more personalized and intuitive interactions. It’s about finding that delicate balance between technology and human touch, ultimately creating designs that empower users rather than diminishing them.

Interviewer: Thank you, Yueran, for sharing your insights and experiences with us! It’s been a pleasure learning about your impactful work and your learnings.

Yueran Zhao: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure sharing my journey, and I’m excited about the boundless possibilities that lie ahead at the intersections of design and AI.

Meet Rulan Zheng, the designer/founder who is making “the GitHub for the story”

NY Weekly Staff on December 6, 2023

Most recently, Dory has gained momentum on Product Hunt, exhibiting promising user traction. As its visionary designer and founder spearheading the emergence of this platform crossing narratives with AI, Rulan Zheng steadily garners attention. Let’s explore the ingenious leader propelling Dory.

Rulan Zheng introduces herself first and foremost as a UI/UX designer. After finishing school, she cultivated exceptional design skills through professional stints at Guidewire and ByteDance. These roles refined her communication abilities for varied audiences, visual design talent, product requirements management finesse, and mastery of user psychology alongside user experience design. With innate empathy, she can adopt the user’s perspective when crafting products. Building on extensive design expertise, Rulan gradually directed her focus toward integrating design and entrepreneurship, regularly conceptualizing and planning startup ideas. She wields comprehensive capabilities to transform products from prototypes into real-world projects spanning requirements analysis, information architecture, interaction design, visual design and user testing evaluations. By adeptly blending specializations in design with astute business instincts, Rulan Zheng has emerged as an aspiring designer-entrepreneur brimming with promise.

Meet Rulan Zheng, the designer/founder who is making “the GitHub for the story”

Sourced photo. Photo of Rulan Zheng giving a speech at 2050’s Design Community

A prominent speaker at design conferences, Rulan often conveys her outlook during events like a 2050 design community gathering where she shared: “Entrepreneurship utilizes resources to optimize value creation for economic and societal gains — achieving financial freedom plus social mobility. Elevating product quality through design is crucial, so digital design paired with the internet provides startup opportunities for designers to direct strategy as founding partners or optimize user experience via collaboration. Ultimately entrepreneurship lets designers leverage our specialties to attain business success and self-actualization.”

As Rulan stated, when Stable Diffusion opened source and ChatGPT emerged, she seized this timely moment to launch her startup Dory with co-founder Steven Kan. They envisioned an AI and community platform rooted in stories to revolutionize narrative worldbuilding. Their mission is pioneering fresh approaches for creating, publishing, managing, and monetizing IP to reshape the intellectual property ecosystem for inclusive participation and benefit-sharing.

Dory believes narratives constitute the entertainment industry’s elemental building blocks — books, movies, TV, games, and fashion. Previously, only a handful of studios successfully adapted stories into popular IPs, but AIGC’s rise has unfurled creativity. Rulan and Steven champion everyone’s inner creator, seeing AI as a tool, not an endpoint for unlocking human potential. By cultivating community and engagement, they transform narratives into influential brands spanning immersive mediums. Their aspiration is empowering storytellers to harness tales for building thriving ventures and meaningful legacies — cherishing each story as a one-of-a-kind brand. 

After pitching to varied investors, Dory secured $200K in funding from Shunfu Capital, a top AI Venture Capital Firm, followed by a 3rd place award at AngelCrunch under Rulan’s leadership. The selective competition draws top angel investors and VCs seeking innovation, market promise, and skilled execution. Winning in such a high-caliber and competitive environment signifies not just the project’s extraordinary business potential and innovative capacity, but also its endorsement by some of the most elite experts in the industry.

As AI continues advancing, Rulan Zheng’s design philosophy and strategies are poised to lead Dory into a new phase of innovation. She will lead in guiding the future direction of design and technology.

 

The Impact of Network vs. Non-network Hospitals on Your health Insurance Claims: What You Need to Know

NY Weekly Staff on December 6, 2023

Image commercially licensed from  Unsplash

Understanding the concept of network and non-network hospitals is important to maximize your health insurance advantages about your healthcare. Health insurance is a crucial financial safety tool that helps cover medical expenses and ensures you have access to healthcare when needed. Kotak general insurance provides a walkthrough on the impact of network vs. non-network hospitals on your health insurance claim and what you need to know.

Impact of network vs. non-network hospitals on your health insurance claims

Below is the impact of network vs. non-network hospitals on your health insurance claims:

Network hospitals

Network hospitals are healthcare facilities and providers that have a contract with health insurance Company to provide treatments at pre-negotiated rates. Kotak health insurance have agreements with specific hospitals, doctors and healthcare providers, creating a network of preferred options for their policyholders. When you seek medical care at a network hospital, you benefit from certain advantages:

  • Network hospitals have negotiated rates, which often results in lower costs for services and treatments. This can lead to significant cost savings for you, the policyholder during medical claim.
  • Claims processing is generally more straightforward when you receive care at a network hospital.
  • You have a clearer understanding of your financial responsibilities when receiving care at a network hospital.

Non-network hospitals

Non-network hospitals, on the other hand, do not have pre-negotiated agreements. They operate independently and may have their own pricing system. While seeking medical treatment at non-network hospitals is certainly an option, it comes with distinct considerations:

  • Without pre-negotiated rates, non-network hospitals may charge higher fees for medical services.
  • When you receive care at a non-network hospital, you may need to handle more administrative work.
  • Health insurance policies often cover a smaller percentage of costs when you seek care at non-network hospitals.
  • Non-network hospitals may not adhere to the same quality and accreditation standards as network hospitals.

What you need to know?

Understanding the impact of network vs. non-network hospitals is essential to make informed decisions about your healthcare and health insurance claims:

  • Review your health insurance policy to understand which hospitals and healthcare providers are considered in-network.
  • In emergencies, it’s important to seek the nearest available medical care, regardless of network status. 
  • Health insurance plans provide out-of-network coverage, which can help reduce your costs when seeking care at non-network hospitals.
  • Be aware of balance billing, which occurs when a non-network provider charges you the difference between their fees.
  • If you have the flexibility to choose, opt for network hospitals and healthcare providers whenever possible.

Conclusion

Network vs. non-network hospitals can significantly impact your health insurance claims and overall healthcare experience. Your health insurance policy is a valuable tool to help you about where to seek care and how to complete the claims process. By being proactive with kotak health insurance, you can maximise your health insurance benefits and make the most of your coverage.

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