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How The Athletic Became a Commercial Success

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Alex Mather and Adam Hansmann
Adam Hansmann (left) and Alex Mather (right), co-founders of The Athletic. Photo: Steph Gray, The Athletic

The field of sports journalism has become as competitive as ever in the 21st century.

With print media outlets vying for premium user space and the interest of the commercial dollar, The Athletic has developed into one of the most successful enterprises.

Did this explosion to a $300 million net worth and 100,000 subscribers happen overnight? Far from it.

Owners Alex Mather and Adam Hansmann have been based out of their central headquarters in San Francisco, constructing a business framework that continues to produce outstanding results.

The Athletic covers a wide range of sports and major leagues that caters to the interests of the masses. This will incorporate the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLS, motor sports, golf, the English Premier League, European soccer and beyond. While major broadsheets have hired a handful of specialists covering the sports beat for their paper or website, this is a brand that has a specialist covering every single team for every single league, with sometimes multiple journalists working the same beat. That model produces the most comprehensive of coverage that cannot be matched through other outlets.

Fluctuations in the economy should not be a barrier to commercial success with The Athletic. This is the fresh approach that continues to outlay 30 and 60-day free trials for those that want to dip their toes into the service. Once shoppers see the value for themselves, they are able to sign up for as little as $10 a month or $60 a year, cashing in on quality sports coverage that is condensed into a single location.

Consumers want to be able to sign up to a platform that is easy to use and cuts out the complication. Although this can be a struggle for certain subscription services, it is not the situation with The Athletic via their app integration and online dashboard. Individuals are able to identify their favorite sports team and sports league, creating a customized interface that caters to the client. If this was not enough of a selling point, this is an ad-free service that cuts out the commercials from the digital feed, banking on the revenue from their loyal customer base rather than online advertisements.

Modern businesses in the sports writing industry have to understand that the audio medium remains one of the most effective tools available. This is where The Athletic has adapted to the landscape, offering a vast array of generic and targeted podcasts for the benefit of the subscriber. Sports leagues and sports teams are covered in depth with the writers actually transitioning from the keyboard to the microphone to expand on their coverage. As of 2019, 32% of Americans have downloaded a podcast at least once a month, indicating how essential this platform is for the sports industry.

The United States might very well be the central sports hub around the planet, but there is overseas success to be found with The Athletic. Their recent push into the UK and Europe has been a clever ploy to capitalize on these markets, adapting the same business model to consumers who have to deal with rising content prices and traditional commercial broadsheets. By sweeping up much of the writing talent with the English Premier League and European soccer, they have managed to repeat their domestic success with an aggressive push across the pond.

Businesses in the sports writing field have been looking on in envy at the success of The Athletic, but the smart operators should take note of the key lessons that are evident for all to see. It is a brand that is easy to consume, adaptable and catering to everyone with a sports affiliation.

3 Best Daily use Webites for Every User

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visit this webiste once

When you wake up in the morning you just check your smartphone and browse some website which is useful for your daily life, it may be for entertainment or news site. I know after wake up in the morning you definitely check between theses websites Youtube, Facebook, and Twitter.

If you also looking for some websites which will simplify your daily life work then read the full post 3 Best Daily use Webites for Every User.

1.Grammerly

grammerly

Grammarly is a golden tool that makes your grammar mistake correct. I mean if you make more spelling mistakes or small grammatical mistakes during your work or college education then this is the best website for you.

Grammarly is a tool base website that is designed to identify grammatical errors and spelling errors. Now you think I make more mistakes in spelling then this website will help me, the answer is yes.

After writing a line Grammarly checks is your grammar and spelling are correct in the line then it doesn’t give any error otherwise you get an underline on that word which have some Grammatical or spelling mistake.

As an example, you write a passage where Punctuation and spelling error is available then you get two error the first error underlines with yellow line and second with red.

Grammarly is available in both paid and free versions. If you want to correct your grammatical mistakes 100% then purchase the premium plan of Grammarly otherwise run with free.

You can customize your English level in Beginner or advance which will help you to rectify your English. If you are a writer and use chrome to write your content then Grammarly has its own chrome extension for free.

2.PdfDrive

pdfdrive

If you read online books or ebooks then you must be a student or an online book reader then you love this website. The specialty of this website is you can download the latest release books in pdf format.

I am in the digital marketing field so I download books from pdf dive and its books are amazing. It catches the latest release books in pdf and available for free. Now you think I need to pay for download, no you can use this website for free and all books available on this site are fully free. You get lots of categories for book download and all are available for free. If you want update from this site then you ad your mail list which will update you when new book comes.

Challenges For Independent Media in a Changing Landscape

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Challenges For Independent Media in a Changing Landscape

There is a healthy dose of liberation for those that want to establish a career with independent media sources. Whether this takes the form with a website, a blog, a video channel, a podcast, a newspaper or another mode of reporting and commenting, digital technology is making this possible.

It is enticing to work in an environment that doesn’t have commercial strings attached, but it is also a space that carries plenty of challenges along the way. Finding that voice, building that audience and breaking news that matters becomes a struggle without the foundation that traditional media empires enjoy.

Ultimately independent media is swimming against the tide when it comes to the financial muscle on show with the regular heavyweights. Advertisers continue to flood the bank accounts of the big hitters in town, giving them the capital to invest in their programming and the exposure that those shows generate.

In this setting they have the ability to monetize their content, even when they don’t quite hit their viewer metrics for a broadcast window. That is the type of insurance that independent creators cannot match and struggle to make sustainable from one quarter to the next.

A lack of brand awareness plays a role with independent media entities that struggle to earn that essential consumer cut-through. CNN, NBC, MSNBC, Fox News, ABC and CBS have all established an audience over years and decades. Thanks to a multimedia empire that supports other programming outside of their news division, outlets that try and go it alone don’t have that recognition from the outside world.

Poor brand awareness will have a negative knock-on effect for the type of access that is granted to independent media sources. At the top-end of town, this will create barriers for presidential press briefings and red carpet events to confidential sources coming forward. Although some whistleblowers will actually see their independence as a benefit given the lack of a conflict of interest commercially, their low profile might keep doors closed that could otherwise be opened by notoriety.

Algorithms on social media and search engines don’t help the cause when it comes to independent media exposure. Everyone from the Young Turks on the left to Infowars on the right have struggled when it comes to the nature of personal feeds, placing NBC and Fox News content ahead of their space for users that have similar tastes and interests. Although they might deserve that extra exposure on merit, the lack of brand awareness or financial backing does act as a barrier when it comes to a preference for recommended content.

If these challenges were not enough to deal with, there have been examples where independent media outlets have been the subject of an aggressive buy-out from a larger entity. Fearful about the coverage that they receive and without that editorial control, the best way to leverage financial muscle is to purchase a newspaper, a hosting provider or something as small as a blog to close off that avenue entirely.

Fortunately there is light at the end of the tunnel with independent media outlets hoping to build a sustainable model moving forward. The expansion of digital technology and social media connections ensures that accounts can be affordably designed and broadcast without interference or interruption. Crowd funding initiatives are breaking down those conventional barriers, helping to monetize projects on a consistent basis.

So long as they do not breach the terms and conditions of website hosts and social profiles, they are free to innovate and explore in the media landscape. They are also free to express opinions and hold power to account without fear of favor, giving them the liberation to push boundaries and engage communities that have an appetite for their approach to news coverage.

How Athletes Can Create Long-Term Wealth

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How Athletes Can Create Long-Term Wealth

The very best scenario for athletes is that they manage to forge a career that lasts between 10-15 years at the top. There are always outliers like Tiger Woods, Tom Brady and LeBron James who push the envelope and enjoy longevity in their second or third decade, but the majority of other professionals experience a far shorter shelf life at the elite level.

This is the reality of sacrificing the body and removing all other distractions on course to becoming a legend in the game. What this does present is a series of challenges for those figures who suddenly find themselves out of work and anxious about the future. That fame and adulation can quickly disappear once the spotlight turns to the next player and the next season.

In order to have financial security and to start a new career path once the boots are hung up, it is important to take note of long-term wealth opportunities. Some of these strategies are just the application of commonsense, but there are other investment decisions that will separate a modest return from an ongoing revenue stream.

The nature and quality of financial advice is half of the battle with athletes in the modern era. Given the intervention of agents, third parties, sponsors, affiliates team members and those aligned with an entourage, it can be hard to ascertain what maneuvers make sense and which should be avoided at all costs. Deciding who feeds the advice and judging their success with this information is critical.

Education is a major component that is underutilized with athletes. Although they are not expected to be experts in this domain given their commitments elsewhere, having a general understanding about risks and opportunities with financial investments is in and of itself an investment. It is the type of intellectual property that allows sportsmen and women the chance to assess new details and take action against financial threats.

Aligning athletes with commercial ventures that they are passionate about is where long-term viability comes into the picture. This can be a new app design, appearing on the speaking circuit, starting a fitness and rehabilitation program, working in construction and development or becoming the face for a community non-profit. If the decision is viewed transparently as nothing more than a vehicle to drive profit and make a quick buck, it will fail to sustain itself.

Investing in property is one of the best maneuvers that athletes can tap into to provide them with stability and insurance in the market. Real estate remains one of the safest bets that any participant can make, whether they are male or female, based in the US or overseas, or happen to be in the game for a long time or see their time in the spotlight cut short due to health or competition. Valuations will remain healthy and there is scope to sell or rent out a location to generate more income.

Whatever decision that athletes take during their career or when they decide to retire, they need to have a diverse portfolio. The old adage of putting all of the eggs into one basket carries significant risk, so a mixture of these projects will ensure a level of security. The top operators across the NFL, NHL, NBA, MLS, golf and motorsport all embrace a diverse approach when it comes to their finances.

Of course there is a litany of other choices that athletes can make to secure their financial future moving forward. Consulting with a trusted accountant will give them the scope to leverage tax incentives and to work with mutual funds among other opportunities. Emerging sports talents like Patrick Mahomes in the NFL, Zion Williamson in the NBA and Kylian Mbappe in European soccer will have no shortage of phone calls and tap ups from outside interests trying to get their slice of the pie, but if they adhere to sound advice, then they have the potential to enjoy long-term wealth opportunities.

Key Research Facts About The Instagram Algorithm Model

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Key Research Facts About The Instagram Algorithm Model

While Facebook and Twitter had a head start in the social media industry in the mid 2000s, Instagram would come along in 2010 to earn their place among the top hitters. 50 million active users inside the first two years would demonstrate the attraction of this format, allowing people to cut out much of the noise and distraction brought about by those other sites and focus on the aesthetics of the imagery instead.

Acting as a user-friendly picture feed, users could login and display their images before implementing a range of filter options to make the picture pop. It would solidify itself for community members across the US and the world before celebrities and then businesses saw the power of the application.

This is where 2016 arrived and the site decided to embrace key research methods to adapt their algorithm. No longer would the posts be sorted basically in chronological order, but it would determine which posts were considered “best” for the individual. Doubt and curiosity would surround the thinking behind this mechanism and how it actually worked.

That time period across 2016 and 2017 would see start to see those barriers breaking down, opening up new insights for how individuals, celebrities and commercial brands could adapt to Instagram’s research endeavors. If they know what they are looking for, then they can optimize their content accordingly.

Engagement is the key driving factor when it comes to the type of research that informs the Instagram feed. The post has to receive a high amount of clicks. If it is shared with direct messaging or sent out via Facebook, Twitter or WhatsApp – even better. Any action that demonstrates the post and the account is receiving digital traction with followers and outside interest, the higher it will be ranked and promoted on an individual feed.

The search history comes into play when discussing the research elements that Instagram will prioritize. The social media giant will track the search bar to see which friend, famous figure or business is sought after to inform the feed. It demonstrates a personal curiosity for general participants who are connecting with the app, or a commercial incentive for brands that want to connect with peers and their community.

Instagram will research account details based on the amount of time that users will spend on specific posts and scanning through account details. It is a search engine optimization (SEO) component that speaks less about the generic interest in a piece of content and delves into the specifics. Clicking on the post is just one phase of this process, because those that remain for the entire picture gallery or video really are enhancing their digital footprint with their followers.

Posts that are recent and fresh still earn major traction when it comes to the nature of Instagram’s research model. Traditionally they would filter an individual feed according to what was brand new, but that would make way for sponsored posts, paid advertisements and “best” content first. However, if there is competition on this front within those categories, then the post that was uploaded most recently should get preferential treatment.

For those who are looking to make the most of Instagram as a branded tool for businesses and commercial enterprises, they should be educated on these research facts. In order to get ahead of the system and leverage the content that is being produced for a selected audience, it is important to follow some key principles. This will include regular engagement with followers, filling in all of the relevant profile information, being consistent with tagging for brand messaging purposes and respecting copyright material provisions.

How Nike Became The Cool Sports Brand

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How Nike Became The Cool Sports Brand

For a vast majority of sneaker consumers and sports fans, Nike remains the cool brand.

Many shoppers and supporters would trace this success back to 1985 with the release of the famous Air Jordan 1 shoe.

As big a marketing coup as there would ever be in the sports apparel world, there have been other key developments along the way that would separate the business apart from their competitors.

Going Public in 1980

Nike would experience a gradual rise in the 1970s, but this type of success would still be reasonably modest until the brand went public in 1980. Co-founders Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman took this important step forward at this time. This is the hallmark of any major organization that has designs on making it large, allowing their value to float and cash in on more investment. The 1980s was a boom period for the domestic economy as well, allowing the company to increase their capital-raising opportunities and provide more liquidity as they expanded their operation.

It’s Not Shoes – It’s Entertainment

There has been an overriding philosophy from Nike that has underpinned their success from day one. Although they are a sneaker and sports apparel designer by trade, co-founder Phil Knight proudly proclaimed they were not in the shoe business, but the entertainment business. That is the mindset that separated them from the other developers, striving to be the shoe producer that was talked about on basketball courts, school gyms and training fields across the country. It wasn’t enough to create the tangible product, but to generate that intangible obsession to be cool.

Major Athlete Endorsements

Aligning two successful brands is where the sneaker developer Nike has really altered the model for other businesses in this market. Once Adidas were naïve enough to pass on 1980s basketball prospect Michael Jordan, the rest as they say is history. When the great Chicago Bulls legend decided to retire with another championship in 1998, the organization would soon turn their attention to the likes of Tiger Woods and emerging talent LeBron James. This has spawned a series of lucrative endorsement deals, featuring European soccer megastar Kylian Mbappe, Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, Russell Westbrook from the Houston Rockets and the most valuable player in the MLB courtesy of Mike Trout.

Clever Marketing Ploys

Some of the success enjoyed by Nike would be circumstantial, but there have been key moments that detail their acumen for clever marketing strategies. The company would only pay $35 for ownership to the iconic swoosh logo back in 1972 before adopting their ‘Just do it’ mantra in 1988. What would appear like small gestures at the time have been masterstrokes, giving them the type of imagery and recognition that have made them known the world over.

Foreign Manufacturing

A practice that has made Nike both a commercial juggernaut and a target for controversy has been their practice of manufacturing their goods through cheap labor in Asia. This is a strategy that has introduced a lot of unwanted attention from the press, but it has been a method that has allowed them to drive up profits and reinvest that revenue back into their global marketing operation. Provisions and legislations have been introduced to place pressure on this business model, but it has undoubtedly been a major driver for their expansion moving forward.

The level of competition that Nike now faces is as fierce as ever. Their commercial cut-through and pop culture impact has only made them a bigger target, seeing the likes of Adidas, Reebok, Under Armour and New Balance achieving market share. Yet they do remain the cool brand for athletes, sports leagues and the general consumer at large because they were first on the scene with these advancements.

What Made Anthony Bourdain a Unique Figure in Culinary Culture

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Anthony Bourdain

There is an entire industry of celebrity chefs that run their own show on cable and streaming services, but Anthony Bourdain would standout as a unique figure in this world. The New York City native would use his expertize to become a travel documentarian, an author, journalist and explorer of exotic cuisines and dining culture.

The book Kitchen Confidential would be a revelatory tell-all account from Anthony Bourdain that really did break the mold for figures of his type in the cooking world. The New York Times best seller would launch the cook’s public career in 2000, giving a warts-and-all revelation about the excesses of this underground lifestyle. It would detail sex, drug use and an extreme approach to the profession of being a chef in a cutthroat environment.

One of the key elements that made Anthony Bourdain a unique figure in this industry was his passion for street food and culinary delights from hard to find locations. While many of his peers would focus on the Michelin star restaurants and extol the virtues of these high-end boutique premises, the American would be far more intrigued finding a low key kebab seller or a Turkish cook in the nearby markets. That salt of the earth, authentic cuisine was the type of food that really brought about his love for food, removing much of the pageantry that can be identified with chefs and the food industry at large.

Anthony Bourdain was very much of the opinion that the standard celebrity chef television show was not his cup of tea. Rather than remaining with the same format year after year, he would venture from one broadcaster to the next to try and experiment with the genre. It would begin with A Cook’s Tour in 2002 before the program No Reservations would take off in 2005, a series that would be sustained until 2012.

To push the envelope even further to exotic food locations around the globe, he would be the face of The Layover from 2011 to 2013, giving people a chance to taste the culinary delights of a layover location inside 24 hours. Parts Unknown would be his final journey, celebrating diverse cultures through their passion for food, cooking and dining.

Celebrity feuds were part of Anthony Bourdain’s makeup that made him a cherished and despised figure depending on the individual. He would call Paula Deen the most dangerous person in America, he would fiercely criticize Guy Fieri and his Times Square restaurant, took aim at Wolfgang Puck and his pizza style, targeted Alice Waters and late night talk show host Bill Maher among others. He was not in the game of making friends and smiling for the camera, but giving an honest opinion from those who were willing to ask.

Unfortunately Anthony Bourdain and depression were subjects that were tragically linked for years. It was well known that the celebrity chef battled depression, but rather than tuning out viewers and losing a following, it would be a feature that separated him from his peers who would always present a self-confident and energetic disposition.

There was only ever one Anthony Bourdain and sadly the world would lose him to suicide in 2018 at the age of 61. Filming on location in France for Parts Unknown, it would be a tragic end for a man who gave viewers so much pleasure. His ability to break with convention, ask questions, explore new territories and offer an unfiltered opinion is where Bourdain would really make his mark on the industry. As far as he was concerned – if the food tasted good, then nothing else mattered.

Phoenix Energy Bonds Review: Inside the Bond Strategy Driving Oil & Gas Growth

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Phoenix Energy Bonds Review

By Matt Willer, Managing Director of Capital Markets, Phoenix Energy

Every week, I speak with prospective investors who ask the same question: What makes Phoenix Energy bonds different?

As Managing Director of Capital Markets, I’ve spent more than two decades helping investors evaluate fixed-income strategies. At Phoenix Energy, our approach is clear: provide direct access to bond offerings to investors that offer attractive returns and support our continued growth in U.S. oil and gas production—while avoiding  unnecessary intermediaries or third-party fees and expenses.

In this article, I’ll walk through the questions I cover during our investor webinars:
Who is Phoenix Energy? How do we operate and how are our Phoenix Energy’s bond programs structured? These are the fundamentals every investor deserves to understand.

Who Is Phoenix Energy?

Phoenix Energy is a privately held, family-founded oil and gas company based in Irvine, California. We are not controlled by large institutions or Wall Street firms. Since our founding in 2019, we’ve grown into one of the most active private operators in the Williston Basin, where we ranked as the 11th largest oil producer in North Dakota as of December 2024.

With over 154 full-time employees and multiple offices across the U.S., we manage a fully integrated platform—drilling, completing, and producing from wells we own and operate. Our asset base includes over 7,000 producing wells and our mission remains focused on generating near-term, high-quality cash flow through disciplined operations.

What Does Phoenix Energy Do?

Phoenix Energy’s operating model is built around three distinct segments—each offering different cash flow profiles and timelines. This multi-pronged strategy gives us the ability to allocate capital where returns are strongest, depending on market conditions.

Here’s how we participate:

  1. Royalty Interests – We own mineral rights. When third-party operators sell oil and gas, we receive monthly royalty payments—this is passive income with no operating obligations.
  2. Non-Operated Working Interests – We co-invest in wells managed by companies like Kraken and Occidental. We share in revenues but do not operate the wells, making this another relatively passive investment stream.
  3. Operated Wells (Phoenix Operating) – This is our most active segment. We acquire mineral rights, drill and complete wells, and sell production ourselves. This division is supported by a proprietary underwriting platform, allowing us to identify and execute on high-value, cash-flowing assets.

Our ability to transition between these segments allows us to adapt quickly to price changes, permitting environments, or development opportunities. It’s a risk-managed approach designed to support both growth and capital preservation.

How Do Phoenix Energy Bonds Work?

Phoenix Energy raises capital directly from investors through the issuance of debt securities—without third-party brokers or private equity firms. This direct model helps us reduce fees and allows investors to speak directly with our licensed professionals who are registered representatives of Dalmore Group, LLC a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA/SIPC.

We currently offer debt securities through:

  • Regulation D 506(c) Offering: Available to accredited investors with a minimum investment amount of $25,000. Offers annual interest rates ranging from 9–13%, depending on investment size and term length.*
  • Registered Offering: Launched in May 2025 pursuant to an effective registration statement (including a prospectus), this program is open to qualifying investors in certain states (e.g., Florida, Colorado, Nevada). It does not require an investor to meet the SEC’s definition of accredited, but certain suitability standards must still be met.

In both cases, investors are purchasing debt securities issued directly by Phoenix Energy—not purchasing direct interests in oil and gas assets that we own. All investments carry risk and must be reviewed carefully in conjunction with the offering documentation for the applicable offering.

*Investors have historically received either simple interest (paid monthly) or compounded interest (added to principal). Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Before investing, all participants must review the applicable offering documentation and other materials about Phoenix Energy. All documentation—including the prospectus, financials, and disclosures—is available on the SEC’s EDGAR database or directly at phoenixenergy.com.

Why Are Phoenix Energy Bonds Different?

We operate differently by design.

How we raise our debt securities is different and unlike many firms that rely on third party intermediaries to market and sell their securities, we raise capital in-house and maintain direct relationships with our investor base. Our capital markets team is accessible, experienced, and fully licensed through Dalmore Group, LLC.

Separately, our asset acquisition strategy prioritizes cash flow over speculation. We do not pursue exploratory or “wildcat” drilling. Instead, we focus on assets with relatively short anticipated payback windows—typically between 12 to 24 months—with strong return potential over the life of the asset. Our underwriting platform plays a critical role in helping us identify, select and underwrite opportunities that meet our criteria.

This unique and  disciplined approach to raising capital and identifying assets to acquire is what supports our ability to meet our bondholder obligations and pursue sustainable long-term growth.

Understanding the Risks

Like all investments, Phoenix Energy bonds carry risk. We make it a point during each webinar to walk through our risk disclosures in detail and these risks are carefully described in the applicable offering documentation related to our debt offerings. While we’ve satisfied all of our  bondholder obligations in the past, future payments depend on operational outcomes, commodity prices, and regulatory developments and future performance cannot be guaranteed.

As our Phoenix Energy CEO, Adam Ferrari, often says:

“We’re stewards of investor capital. Our job is to manage that capital responsibly and build a business that can deliver value across cycles.”

Phoenix Energy’s Track Record and Institutional Support

Phoenix Energy has raised over $1 billion from more than 5,500 individual investors. This is not a startup—we’ve built a full-scale operational platform and have a long-term capital strategy.

To date we have also  raised  $300 million in a first lien term loan from a leading institutional lender in the energy space. We believe that their participation affirms our belief in the strength of our platform.

Phoenix Energy Reviews

If you’ve searched for Phoenix Energy reviews or wondered, “Is Phoenix Energy legit?”, you’re not alone. These are smart questions—and ones we welcome.

Phoenix Energy is an issuer of debt securities and our capital markets team includes registered representatives of Dalmore Group, LLC with deep experience in capital markets. We require all potential investors to review our offering documents, financials, and SEC filings, all of which are available to the public.

We host weekly webinars, maintain an active investor education platform, and offer direct access to our licensed professionals—based here in the U.S.—who are available to answer your questions and walk through the offerings in detail.

As a private, family-founded company, our reputation is built on transparency, discipline, and communication. We understand that trust isn’t assumed—it’s earned over time.

To learn more or to register for our next investor webinar, visit phoenixenergy.com/webinar.

Matt Willer is Managing Director of Capital Markets at Phoenix Energy. With over 25 years of experience in investment banking and private capital markets, he leads investor education, fundraising, and corporate finance strategy for the firm’s U.S. operations.

Disclosure: Phoenix Energy One, LLC (“Phoenix Energy”) conducts offerings of debt securities pursuant to (i) the exemption from registration provided by Rule 506(c) of Regulation D and (ii) an effective registration statement (including a prospectus) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) (the “Registered Offering”). Certain of Phoenix Energy’s non-executive personnel are licensed registered representatives of Dalmore Group, LLC. These registered representatives conduct securities business through Dalmore, a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA/SIPC. Dalmore and Phoenix Energy are not affiliated entities. Participation in an offering is subject to certain criteria, including meeting financial suitability requirements. The securities offered are speculative, illiquid, and you may lose some or all of your investment. Before you invest, you should read the offering documentation for the relevant offering, including, with respect to the Registered Offering, the prospectus and the other documents Phoenix Energy has filed with the SEC, which you may get for free by visiting EDGAR on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, Phoenix Energy or Dalmore will arrange to send you any applicable offering documents you request. This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation, or sale of any security, in any jurisdiction in which such offering, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful. See full disclosures.

This article contains forward-looking statements based on our current expectations, assumptions, and beliefs about future events and market conditions. These statements, identifiable by terms such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “intend,” “may,” “expect,” “plan,” “should,” and similar expressions, involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Factors that may impact these outcomes include changes in market conditions, regulatory developments, operational performance, and other risks described in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and Phoenix Energy undertakes no obligation to update them except as required by law.

A Beginner’s Guide to Experiencing Thai Massage: What to Expect During Your First Visit

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Guide to Experiencing Thai Massage

Thai massage is a centuries-old healing practice that combines stretching, acupressure, and rhythmic movements to promote relaxation, flexibility, and overall well-being. If you’ve never experienced Thai massage before, you might feel curious yet unsure about what to expect. Unlike Western-style massages, which are performed on a table with oils, Thai massage offers a unique and interactive experience often described as “assisted yoga.” This beginner’s guide will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for and fully enjoy your first Thai massage session.

What is Thai Massage?

Thai massage is rooted in traditional Thai medicine, which views the body as a network of energy pathways called “Sen.” These pathways are believed to carry life energy, and blockages in these lines can lead to physical or mental discomfort. Thai massage aims to restore balance by applying pressure to these energy lines and incorporating deep stretches to release tension and improve circulation.

Unlike other types of massages that focus solely on relaxation, Thai massage blends stretching, acupressure, and yoga-like movements to enhance both physical and mental well-being. It’s a holistic approach designed to rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit.

Preparing for Your First Thai Massage

Before heading to your appointment, it’s helpful to know what to expect and how to prepare. Here are some tips to make the most of your session:

  1. Dress Comfortably

Thai massage is performed fully clothed, so there’s no need to undress. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, such as yoga pants and a t-shirt, to allow for easy movement during the stretches.

  1. Avoid Eating a Heavy Meal

Try not to eat a heavy meal at least an hour before your massage. A full stomach can make some of the stretches uncomfortable. Light snacks, however, are fine.

  1. Communicate with Your Therapist

Before your session begins, share any specific areas of tension, injuries, or medical conditions with your therapist. They can tailor the massage to meet your needs and ensure your comfort throughout the session.

  1. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water before and after your massage to help flush out toxins and keep your body hydrated.

What to Expect During Your Thai Massage

  1. A Unique Setup

Unlike traditional massages, which are performed on a table, Thai massage is done on a padded mat placed on the floor. This allows the therapist to use their body weight to perform stretches and apply pressure effectively.

  1. Remaining Clothed

As mentioned earlier, you’ll remain fully clothed during the session. Some spas may provide loose-fitting garments for you to wear, but you can also wear your own comfortable clothing.

  1. Active Participation

Thai massage is often described as “assisted yoga” because the therapist will guide your body into various stretches and poses. While it’s mostly passive, there may be moments when you need to adjust your position or apply gentle resistance.

  1. Techniques Used

Your therapist will use their hands, elbows, knees, and feet to apply pressure, stretch your muscles, and mobilise your joints. The pressure can range from gentle to firm, depending on your preference and needs.

  1. A Full-Body Experience

Thai massage focuses on the entire body, working on energy lines and muscle groups from head to toe. The session typically starts at the feet and progresses upward, ensuring a balanced and comprehensive treatment.

Benefits You May Experience

After your first Thai massage, you’ll likely notice several immediate benefits, including:

  • Improved Flexibility: The guided stretches help loosen tight muscles and increase your range of motion.
  • Reduced Stress: The rhythmic movements and pressure help calm the nervous system, promoting relaxation.
  • Enhanced Energy: By clearing energy blockages, Thai massage can leave you feeling revitalised.
  • Pain Relief: The combination of acupressure and stretching can alleviate chronic pain and tension.

Tips for a Comfortable Experience

  1. Communicate During the Session

If you feel the pressure is too intense or a stretch is uncomfortable, let your therapist know. Thai massage is meant to be invigorating, not painful.

  1. Relax and Breathe

Stay mindful of your breathing throughout the session. Deep, steady breaths can help you relax and enhance the benefits of the massage.

  1. Trust the Process

If you’re new to Thai massage, some of the techniques may feel unusual at first. Trust your therapist and allow yourself to enjoy the experience.

After Your Massage

To make the most of your Thai massage, follow these simple aftercare tips:

  • Drink Water: Rehydrating after your massage helps flush out toxins released during the session.
  • Rest: Allow your body time to absorb the benefits of the massage. Avoid strenuous activities immediately afterward.
  • Stretch Gently: Incorporate light stretches into your daily routine to maintain the flexibility gained during your session.

Common Questions About Thai Massage

  1. Is Thai Massage Painful?

Thai massage should never be painful. While you may feel some deep pressure or intense stretches, it should always feel relieving, not uncomfortable. Communicate with your therapist to adjust the pressure to your liking.

  1. How Long is a Session?

Thai massage sessions typically last between 60 and 120 minutes. For beginners, a 60-minute session is a great way to ease into the experience.

  1. How Often Should I Get a Thai Massage?

The frequency of sessions depends on your needs and lifestyle. For general well-being, one session every two to four weeks is ideal. If you’re dealing with chronic pain or specific issues, your therapist may recommend more frequent visits.

Why You Should Try Thai Massage

Thai massage is a unique and enriching experience that offers numerous physical and mental benefits. Whether you’re looking to improve flexibility, relieve tension, or simply unwind, Thai massage provides a holistic approach to wellness. It’s especially ideal for those who want more than just relaxation—a Thai massage engages your entire body and mind, leaving you feeling balanced and revitalised.

Conclusion

Your first Thai massage session is an opportunity to explore a healing practice that has been refined over centuries. By understanding what to expect and how to prepare, you can fully immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy its many benefits. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned spa-goer, Thai massage is a powerful addition to any wellness routine. So, take the leap, book your first session, and discover the transformative effects of this ancient art.

 

A Day in the Life of a Pharmacist: Challenges and Rewards

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A Day in the Life of a Pharmacist

Pharmacists play a critical role in the healthcare system, serving as the bridge between patients and their medications. While many people view pharmacists as the professionals behind the pharmacy counter, their daily responsibilities go far beyond dispensing prescriptions. From providing medication counseling to collaborating with healthcare providers, pharmacists juggle a wide range of tasks that require expertise, precision, and empathy.

Let’s take a closer look at a typical day in the life of a pharmacist and explore the challenges and rewards of this dynamic profession.

Morning: Preparing for the Day

A pharmacist’s day often begins with preparation. Whether working in a retail pharmacy, hospital, or clinical setting, pharmacists start by reviewing tasks for the day and ensuring that the Canadian Pharmacy is ready to operate smoothly.

  • Medication Inventory Check: Pharmacists verify that medications are in stock and ready for dispensing. They also review any shortages and place orders if needed.
  • Prescription Reviews: Reviewing electronic prescriptions sent by healthcare providers ensures that pharmacists can address any potential issues before patients arrive.
  • Team Briefings: Pharmacists often lead meetings with pharmacy technicians to outline priorities and assign tasks for the day.

Mid-Morning: Dispensing and Counseling

As the day progresses, the pace picks up. Pharmacists begin filling prescriptions and interacting with patients.

  • Filling Prescriptions: Using advanced software, pharmacists process prescriptions, check for potential drug interactions, and ensure accuracy before dispensing medications.
  • Patient Counseling: Every prescription comes with a responsibility to educate patients. Pharmacists explain dosage instructions, possible side effects, and any precautions. They also answer patients’ questions, such as how to take medications with food or avoid potential interactions with supplements.

These interactions are crucial for ensuring medication adherence and preventing errors.

Afternoon: Clinical and Collaborative Duties

Pharmacists are not just medication experts; they are also integral to patient care teams. In the afternoon, many pharmacists focus on clinical and administrative tasks.

  • Medication Therapy Management (MTM): Pharmacists review patients’ entire medication regimens, ensuring that all drugs are working effectively together and making recommendations to doctors if adjustments are needed.
  • Chronic Disease Support: For patients with conditions like diabetes or hypertension, pharmacists provide education on how to monitor their health, manage symptoms, and adhere to long-term treatments.
  • Collaboration with Healthcare Providers: Pharmacists communicate with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to resolve prescription issues, suggest alternative medications, or provide expert advice on drug therapies.

Evening: Wrapping Up

As the day winds down, pharmacists shift their focus to closing tasks and preparing for the next day.

  • Regulatory Compliance: Pharmacists ensure that all records are updated and that the pharmacy complies with legal requirements, such as controlled substance documentation.
  • Inventory Management: Checking inventory levels helps ensure that critical medications are always available.
  • Addressing Patient Needs: Before closing, pharmacists may handle last-minute prescription requests, answer follow-up questions, or assist patients with medication concerns.

Challenges of Being a Pharmacist

While rewarding, the profession comes with its share of challenges:

  1. High Responsibility: Pharmacists must ensure complete accuracy when dispensing medications, as even small errors can have serious consequences.
  2. Workload and Stress: The fast-paced environment, long hours, and constant multitasking can be taxing, particularly during peak times like flu season.
  3. Patient Concerns: Pharmacists often deal with patients who are frustrated by medication costs, insurance issues, or confusion about their prescriptions, requiring patience and effective communication skills.

The Rewards of Pharmacy Work

Despite the challenges, being a pharmacist offers many fulfilling aspects:

  1. Making a Difference: Pharmacists directly impact patient health by ensuring they receive the right medications and understand how to use them safely.
  2. Building Relationships: Many pharmacists form long-term relationships with patients, becoming trusted advisors in their healthcare journeys.
  3. Varied Career Paths: Pharmacy offers opportunities in retail, hospital, research, academia, and industry, allowing professionals to tailor their careers to their interests.
  4. Professional Growth: With advancements in technology and expanded roles in healthcare, pharmacists have more opportunities to contribute meaningfully to patient care.

A Rewarding Career Choice

A pharmacist’s day is anything but monotonous. From the moment they step into the pharmacy to the time they close for the day, pharmacists balance technical expertise with compassionate care. They educate patients, collaborate with healthcare teams, and manage critical aspects of medication safety—all while navigating the challenges of a demanding profession.

For those considering a career in pharmacy, it’s a field that offers not only intellectual stimulation but also the chance to make a tangible difference in people’s lives every single day.