December 20, 2020

Gift-wrapped goodwill

There are a lot of people on Santa’s “nice” list who deserve a handsomely wrapped holiday present. But the ones who have the greatest need for a gift this time of year are often overlooked and undercounted.

From the homeless and underprivileged to needy families and impoverished children, many people will have to do without this December. But you can make a difference in some of these lives and generate instant holiday hope and cheer by putting some worthy charitable organizations on your gift list.

For suggestions on worthy causes you can donate to, read my newest article for CTW Features, available here.

December 15, 2020

Buzz and Woody strike silver

In Cineversary podcast episode # 30, host Erik Martin and animation professor, historian, author, and ex-Disney animator Tom Sito travel to infinity and beyond in their admiration of “Toy Story,” which turns 25 this year. Erik and Tom examine why this film is worth celebrating all these years later, its cultural impact and legacy, what we can learn from the movie today, how it has stood the test of time, and more. 
Tom Sito

To listen to this episode, click here or click the "play" button on the embedded streaming player below. Or, you can stream, download or subscribe to the Cineversary podcast using Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Breaker, Castbox, Pocket Casts, PodBean, RadioPublic, and Overcast.

Learn more about the Cineversary podcast at tinyurl.com/cineversarypodcast and email show comments or suggestions to cineversegroup@gmail.com.

December 13, 2020

Play it smart by socially distancing this holiday season

Can’t decide how big of a turkey to buy for your upcoming family feast? Planning a big Santa shindig this December? You may want to rethink your holiday festivities this year and take pandemic-related precautions if you expect to congregate with loved ones over the next few weeks, the experts agree.

“COVID-19 isn’t going away anytime soon, and new waves of infection will likely occur in the fall and winter – just as the holiday season begins,” says William Li, MD, an internationally renowned physician, scientist, and COVID-19 researcher in Cambridge, Massachusetts. “The holidays are times when large numbers of family and friends gather together and socialize indoors, often over meals. But these are the exact circumstances when the coronavirus can spread.”

To reduce your risks, it’s smart to play it safe and plan extra carefully if you’ll be hosting a holiday dinner or seasonal get-together this year. Learn what the experts recommend by reading my latest article on this topic for CTW Features, available here.

December 6, 2020

How to accommodate everyone’s calendar without chaos this holiday season

Even with the coronavirus lingering, people’s schedules seem busier than ever. And that makes it challenging to coordinate calendars among family members when it’s time to plan for holiday gatherings. Deciding which house will host a party, who will make and bring a particular dish, limits on gift-giving, and picking the perfect date and time can trigger family schisms and stress – especially this year, when relatives may have to adapt their plans to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

But these details don’t have to descend into disarray if you take the right approach. That means grabbing the holidays by the reins early and encouraging a democratic dialogue with your loved ones. I provide plenty of tips on this topic in my newest article for CTW Features, available here.

November 29, 2020

Your escape hatch when buying or selling a home

When you’re working on a computer, the undo button is an invaluable tool. So is a contingency clause when you’re looking to buy or sell a home. It provides a way for one or both parties to back out of a real estate contract if certain specified conditions are not met.

Common contingencies in real estate sales include an appraisal contingency, inspection contingency, and a funding contingency. Most contingency clauses are designed to protect the buyer’s interests, although including too many contingencies in a contract could make you appear less appealing to the seller, especially when multiple offers are involved.

It’s important to understand how contingencies work and to collaborate closely with your real estate agent and attorney on which contingencies to include and agree to. Find out what's involved by reading my article on this topic for Bankrate.com, available here.

November 22, 2020

Fasten your seatbelts, it's going to be a fun podcast

For Cineversary podcast episode #29, host Erik Martin and “All About All About Eve” author 
Sam Staggs crash the Sarah Siddons award ceremony to dish delicious details about “All About Eve,” directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, which celebrates a 70th anniversary this year. Erik and Sam explore why this film is worth commemorating all these years later, its cultural impact and legacy, what we can learn from the picture today, how it has stood the test of time, and more. 

To listen to this episode, click here or click the "play" button on the embedded streaming player below. Or, you can stream, download or subscribe to the Cineversary podcast using Apple PodcastsStitcherSpotifyGoogle PodcastsBreakerCastboxPocket CastsPodBeanRadioPublic, and Overcast.

Learn more about the Cineversary podcast at tinyurl.com/cineversarypodcast and email show comments or suggestions to cineversegroup@gmail.com.

November 16, 2020

Is cancer insurance worth it?

Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in America, right behind heart disease. American Cancer Society estimated 40 out of 100 men and 39 out of 100 women in the United States will develop cancer over their lifetime.

Many of us have health insurance coverage to cover the expenses involved with diagnosing and treating cancer. But this existing coverage may not cover enough. You might still have coverage gaps that exhaust your finances. Fortunately, cancer insurance can supplement your major medical health insurance policy.

It's important to understand how cancer insurance works and how to shop for a plan. Many experts also caution that this supplemental insurance may not be necessary. Learn the facts and determine the right strategy for your needs before committing to cancer insurance by reading my latest article or Insurance.com on this topic, available here.

November 8, 2020

Curbing speech data overreach

Concerned about how Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant are collecting and using your voice data every time you talk to a smart speaker? Troubled by the potential for speech bots and voice-based information companies to exploit your personal information? Alarmed by the rise of deep fakes and the ease with which bad actors can manipulate audio for nefarious reasons?

You’re not alone. People across the globe are becoming increasingly worried about the extent to which our recorded voices and the words we say are captured, mined for marketing purposes, and vulnerable to hackers and criminals. And it’s a big reason why we’ve seen a stronger push in the last few years for laws and guidelines intended to control these practices and decrease these risks.

But are existing and proposed regulations strong and comprehensive enough to deter unethical methods? Will laws designed to regulate speech data be properly enforced, and will companies in violation be held accountable? Has technology reached a point where it’s nearly impossible to reign it in and safeguard consumers?

I attempt to answer these questions and explore these issues in my latest cover story for Speech Technology magazine, available here.

October 29, 2020

Vintage radio frights revisited

I had the privilege of appearing this week on Monster Kid Radio, a podcast that celebrates classic horror films of yesteryear. Podcast host Derek Koch and I discuss the underrated pleasures of listening to old time radio (OTR) horror and mystery shows, and I share my favorite OTR mystery series and episodes. 

To hear this podcast episode, click here (scroll down the page and click the "play" button to hear it). Happy Halloween, everyone!

October 25, 2020

Make lenders compete for your mortgage business

Mortgage purchase and refinance loans are hot right now. And with interest rates remaining low, you should be able to get a great deal on a loan. But you may be able to get an ever better bargain on a mortgage if you shop around and get lenders to compete for your business.

My latest article for The Mortgage Reports covers this topic and offers valuable tips. Check it out here

October 19, 2020

Even podcasters go a little mad sometimes...

For Cineversary podcast episode #28, host Erik Martin celebrates the 60th anniversary of Alfred Hitchcock's ultimate treatise on terror, "Psycho." Erik checks into the Bates Motel with Alexandre Phillipe, the director of "78/52: Hitchcock's Shower Scene," which deconstructs the infamous shower murder sequence from Psycho. He and Alexandre explore why this film is worth commemorating all these years later, its cultural impact and legacy, what we can learn from the picture today, how it has stood the test of time, and more.
Alexandre Phillipe

To listen to this episode, click here or click the "play" button on the embedded streaming player below. Or, you can stream, download or subscribe to the Cineversary podcast using Apple PodcastsStitcherSpotifyGoogle PodcastsBreakerCastboxPocket CastsGoogle Play MusicPodBeanRadioPublic, and Overcast.

Learn more about the Cineversary podcast at tinyurl.com/cineversarypodcast and email show comments or suggestions to cineversegroup@gmail.com.

October 11, 2020

Think pink

First, the sobering news: One in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives, per the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Next to skin cancer, it’s the most common cancer that affects American females.

The good news? According to Cancer.net, the average five-year and 10-year survival rates for women with invasive breast cancer are 91% and 84%, respectively. Best of all, the five-year relative survival rate can be 99% if breast cancer detection occurs early.

The operative word here is “detection,” which puts the onus on women to get screened regularly and as recommended for breast cancer, the experts agree.

Learn more, including best practices to follow, by reading my newest article on this topic for CTW Features, available here.

October 4, 2020

Suck-cess


Here’s one fact you can’t sweep under the rug: Cleaning is a drag. Unless you have a robot vac, that is, which can make floor and rug cleaning simple.

Introduced nearly 25 years ago, robot vacuum cleaners operate much more efficiently, effectively and impressively today. Hot new features include voice command control using Alexa or Google Home, Wi-Fi connectivity, customized programming and controls via an app, improved sensors that avoid obstacles and cliffs, self-recharging, longer battery life, and on-demand video home monitoring.

Discover more facts about robot vacs by reading my newest article for The Costco Connection magazine, available here.

September 20, 2020

As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to be a podcaster

For Cineversary podcast episode #27, host Erik Martin wears a wire and goes undercover with film critic Glenn Kenny, author of the new book Made Men: The Story of Goodfellas, to uncover the secrets behind perhaps the greatest mob movie ever made, “Goodfellas,” directed by Martin Scorsese, which celebrates a 30th anniversary this month. Erik and Glenn explore why this film is worth commemorating all these years later, its cultural impact and legacy, what we can learn from the picture today, how it has stood the test of time, and more.
Glenn Kenny


To listen to this episode, click here or click the "play" button on the embedded streaming player below. Or, you can stream, download or subscribe to the Cineversary podcast using Apple PodcastsStitcherSpotifyGoogle PodcastsBreakerCastboxPocket CastsGoogle Play MusicPodBeanRadioPublic, and Overcast.

Learn more about the Cineversary podcast at tinyurl.com/cineversarypodcast and email show comments or suggestions to cineversegroup@gmail.com.

September 14, 2020

The green you'll need for a getaway property

Owning a vacation/second-home sounds like an appetizing prospect. You can use the property as a personal getaway destination when you're looking for some overdue R&R. And you can lease out the residence via Airbnb and other short-term rental platforms whenever you're not occupying it.

But purchasing, owning, maintaining, and managing a vacation home won't be easy. Plus, there are plenty of expenses to consider before committing to this major transaction. To learn more about the bread required, as well as many unexpected out-of-pocket costs you'll be responsible for, read my newest article for Bankrate, available here.

September 6, 2020

When it’s better to hire a pro for the job

As a homeowner, it’s often tempting to bite off more than you can chew. Like that DIY bathroom redo that you were hoping to save money on, that sagging garage roof crying out for your magic touch, or that new foyer light fixture waiting to be hung.

Fact is, savvy and skilled weekend warriors can march into the home improvement battle with confidence. But the rest of us are usually better off enlisting experts for a fix-it or remodeling project. Learn why by reading my newest article for CTW Features, available here.

August 31, 2020

Hit the accelerator on your mortgage


If you have a mortgage loan, chances are you plan to pay it off long-term—often over 20 to 30 years. Over this time, you’ll likely pay tens of thousands toward interest alone. But if you pay extra on your mortgage bi-weekly, monthly, or annually, you can pay off your mortgage early. Plus, you’ll save big money otherwise spent on interest paid to your lender.

But making accelerated payments to achieve these goals isn’t for everyone. Check the math and figure out how much you shave off your repayment timetable and save versus investing that extra money elsewhere or refinancing.

Read my latest article for The Mortgage Reports and learn three key strategies for prepaying your mortgage.

August 23, 2020

Calling Dr. Zoom

Seeing a doctor or other health care provider doesn’t always require visiting an office or hospital in person. Instead, your provider may be able to evaluate, diagnose or consult with you remotely using videoconferencing, phone, an app, or another secure electronic means. This flexibility is particularly appreciated during the current pandemic, when many patients seek to avoid coronavirus transmission risks.

Eager to schedule a telehealth session with your provider? It’s important first to understand how telehealth works, state laws and restrictions, to what extent telehealth is allowed by your private health insurance plan, Medicare or Medicaid, and your options if a telehealth claim is denied. Remote doctor visits are likely to increase in the times ahead, but your current ability to take advantage of telehealth benefits may be limited.

Get the 411 on telehealth and if/how it works with your health insurance plan by reading my newest article for Insurance.com, available here.

August 16, 2020

Suffrage sisters

This year marks the centennial of American women earning the right to vote, thanks to ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution in 1920.

One hundred is a big, memorable number worth celebrating. But it’s far from the most astounding number related to the suffrage movement. Consider that, for most of our nation’s history—144 years—females were denied this crucial right. Moreover, it took the suffragists 72 years before the women’s right to vote became law and, despite being passed by Congress a year earlier, 13 months passed before enough states ratified the 19th Amendment and made it effective nationwide.

Many important figures paved the path to the ballot box for women. Some are well represented in history books and museums. Others have been overlooked and underappreciated. But all are deserving of praise and recognition. Read my newest article for CTW Features and learn about some of these pioneering females in the suffrage movement by clicking here.

August 13, 2020

A film about lies that speaks the truth turns 70

For Cineversary podcast episode #26, host Erik Martin treks back 1,000 years to Japan, accompanied by Akira Kurosawa expert Stephen Prince, a film professor at Virginia Tech; together, they honor the 70th birthday of a milestone work of world cinema, "Rashomon," directed by Kurosawa. Erik and Stephen explore why this movie is worth honoring all these years later, its cultural impact and legacy, what we can learn from the film today, how it has stood the test of time, and more.
Stephen Prince
To listen to this episode, click here or click the "play" button on the embedded streaming player below. Or, you can stream, download or subscribe to the Cineversary podcast using Apple PodcastsStitcherSpotifyGoogle PodcastsBreakerCastboxPocket CastsGoogle Play MusicPodBeanRadioPublic, and Overcast.

Learn more about the Cineversary podcast at tinyurl.com/cineversarypodcast and email show comments or suggestions to cineversegroup@gmail.com.

August 9, 2020

Speech teach

At a time when Chromebooks are replacing textbooks and digital assistants are often more of a go-to resource than human instructors (especially during this COVID-19 crisis), it’s hardly a shock to learn that 95 percent of teachers employ technology in schools today, according to a Common Sense Media study.

But many are surprised at the speed and degree to which one branch of innovation has grown in the field of education: speech technology, which is commanding an increasingly larger voice in classrooms and homework zones. From smart speakers and voice dictation software to text-to-speech apps and cutting-edge devices used by the disabled, students and educators are turning to a growing array of impressive tools and resources that can significantly aid learning.

Learn more about how speech technology has infiltrated the classroom and improved learning for students and educators alike by checking out my newest story for Speech Technology magazine, available here.

August 2, 2020

What to expect when you're expecting a baby room

Few events in life are as joyous and anticipated as the day you bring your new baby home from the hospital. You want that time—and the days and memories that follow—to be perfect and peaceful. That’s why carefully prepping the room you and your newborn will retreat to can make a big difference.

In short, a well-planned nursery matters. And this labor of love endeavor doesn’t have to be overly complicated—especially if you give yourself plenty of time. Learn more about how to create a non-cursory nursery by reading my latest article for The Costco Connection, available here.

July 26, 2020

Exploring no-closing-cost mortgages

Every mortgage loan comes with closing costs that can add up quickly. And that can create a challenge for some home buyers and refinancers short on the extra cash they’ll need to fork over at closing time. Fortunately, many lenders offer a no-closing-cost mortgage option. This means you won’t pay closing costs in a lump sum on your day of closing. Instead, these expenses can be rolled into your loan balance or padded into your interest rate.

There are advantages and disadvantages to pursuing no-closing-cost home loans. And not everyone is a good candidate for this strategy. Learn the facts, do the math and determine if this is your best option after reading my article on this topic for Bankrate.com, available here.

July 20, 2020

His girl Molly spills screwball secrets on Cineversary

In Cineversary podcast episode #25, host Erik Martin journeys back to the newsroom, circa 1940, with feminist film critic extraordinaire Molly Haskell, author of the groundbreaking cinema text "From Reverence to Rape: The Treatment of Women in the Movies," to celebrate the 80th anniversary of quite possibly the best screwball comedy ever made, "His Girl Friday," directed by Howard Hawks. Erik and Molly examine why this film is worth honoring all these years later, its cultural impact and legacy, what we can learn from the picture today, how it has stood the test of time, and more.

Molly Haskell
To listen to this episode, click here or click the "play" button on the embedded streaming player below. Or, you can stream, download or subscribe to the Cineversary podcast using Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Breaker, Castbox, Pocket Casts, Google Play Music, PodBean, RadioPublic, and Overcast.

Learn more about the Cineversary podcast at tinyurl.com/cineversarypodcast and email show comments or suggestions to cineversegroup@gmail.com.

July 13, 2020

How to make that old tub look like new

Along with the kitchen, the bathroom is one of the most important rooms valued by home buyers or renters. But a stained, worn, or ugly tub can significantly decrease a bath's aesthetic appeal. That's why it pays to refinish a tub -- a job that a handy DIYer can tackle, although it’s probably best handled by an experienced pro.

To determine if a bathtub refinishing is right for your property, consider several factors, including signs that your tub needs refinishing, benefits of bathtub refinishing, drawbacks and risks of relaxing, steps involved in refinishing your tub, and alternatives to consider. Planned and executed properly, a tub refinishing can catch the eye and make a bathroom pop. Just be sure your tub is a good candidate for reglazing and you follow the instructions carefully if you choose to do it yourself.

Learn more about bathtub refinishing options by reading my story on this topic for The Motley Fool's Millionacres site, available here.

July 5, 2020

Touchless tech to the rescue

Fears of COVID-19 have kept millions of Americans indoors and socially distant over the past several months. But while sequestering at home decreases your risk of contact with others and acquiring coronavirus, staying behind closed doors isn’t foolproof.

For example, if you feel sick or have tested positive for the virus, you’ll need to quarantine from housemates. Or maybe you’re a frontline worker who, despite washing your hands, changing your clothes, and taking every precaution, worries about exposing your family to germs you may be bringing home.

While scientists haven’t yet developed a vaccine, some pretty bright tech people have invented smart home devices that can make things easier and reduce your risks of transmission while this pandemic plays out. Read my newest story for CTW Features (available here) for all the latest details.

June 28, 2020

The pros and cons of prepaying your mortgage

You don't have to wait out the remaining term of your mortgage to pay it off. Instead, you can make accelerated payments on an occasional or regular basis, which could save you big money otherwise spent on interest and pay off the mortgage early. This may be a good strategy if you have a higher interest rate and extra money in the bank. It can also be a smart tactic if you want to worry less about debt.

But your mileage may vary. Prepaying your mortgage may not be your best option. You might earn a higher rate of return investing that extra cash. It could be wiser to simply refinance if rates drop. And you may regret prepaying if you need more money later for an emergency.

Read my newest article for Money-Rates.com and decide for yourself if making accelerated mortgage payments is worth it or if you're better off saving or investing that money.

June 21, 2020

Alfresco A.I.

Smart home technology doesn’t have to be limited to the boundaries of your interior living space. Today, you can automate tasks and easily control key security and entertainment features outdoors, too, thanks to the rising availability of intelligent devices built to withstand the elements and managed by your smartphone and voice assistant, including security cameras, outdoor lights and speakers, smart garage door openers, and more.

Get the lowdown on all these high-tech solutions by reading my latest article for CTW Features, available here.

June 16, 2020

Take a swig of vintage redrum

Kim Newman
For Cineversary podcast episode #24, host Erik Martin takes an eerie trip into the Overlook Hotel with film critic and horror movie expert Kim Newman to commemorate the 40th anniversary of "The Shining," directed by Stanley Kubrick. Erik and Kim explore why this horror masterwork is worth honoring all these years later, its cultural impact and legacy, what we can learn from the picture today, how it has stood the test of time, and more.

To listen to this episode, click 
here or click the "play" button on the embedded streaming player below. Or, you can stream, download or subscribe to the Cineversary podcast using Apple PodcastsStitcherSpotifyGoogle PodcastsBreakerCastboxPocket CastsGoogle Play MusicPodBeanRadioPublic, and Overcast.

Learn more about the Cineversary podcast at tinyurl.com/cineversarypodcast and email show comments or suggestions to cineversegroup@gmail.com.

June 14, 2020

Consider refinancing into a 15-year mortgage

With the pandemic still prevalent and interest rates near all-time lows, now is a great time to think about a refinance. But it may also be an opportune time to consider shortening your mortgage’s term in the process.

Many homeowners choose to refinance from a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage to a fresh 30-year equivalent. But while this can lower your monthly payment, it can add extra years to the total amount of time you’ll be financing your home. That means you’ll pay more in total interest over the combined terms of your original loan and your refinanced loan than you might expect. Instead, it can be smart to pursue a refi with a shorter term. Refinancing from a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage into a 15-year fixed loan can result in paying down your loan more quickly and saving lots of dollars otherwise spent on interest. You’ll own your home outright and be free of mortgage debt much sooner than normal. Plus, mortgages with shorter terms often charge lower interest rates. Consequently, more of your monthly payments will be applied to the loan’s principal balance.

Learn more about the pros and cons of shifting to a 15-year mortgage via refi by reading my newest article for Bankrate, available here.

June 9, 2020

Eight foods you should be eating more of as an older adult

If you’re over age 50, you know by now that you can’t eat whatever you want without some consequences. But just because experts increasingly recommend curbing junk foods and high-calorie indulgences as you get older doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice flavor, fun, or food variety. It’s possible to change your diet for the better without punishing your taste buds or going hungry after meals.

Case in point: Consider eight healthy and appetizing edibles that can easily be added to your diet, including leafy green veggies, beans and legumes, nuts, salmon, oats, yogurt, berries, and flaxseed. For details, read my latest CTW Features syndicated article on this topic, available here.

May 31, 2020

Hair today, (not) gone tomorrow

Soldiers on the front line in the war to stop hair loss are wielding a new weapon that also serves as a proud combat helmet: the Theradome, an innovative device that uses lasers to promote hair regrowth. Only this battle is being fought—and won—painlessly and privately from the comforts of home, thanks to the inspired vision and dogged efforts of a former NASA engineer.

Tamim Hamid was renowned for designing laser systems used by the Space Shuttle program, but he couldn’t make headway in his struggle to stem his progressing hair loss. So he began creating custom lasers and testing them on his scalp. After years of research and experimentation, Hamid launched his company, Theradome, Inc., in 2009. 

His dream was to create an affordable hair regrowth device that virtually anyone could use at home, with no prescription or medications required and no harmful side effects. He achieved that dream with the invention of the Theradome, a cordless, lightweight helmet apparatus that runs on a small rechargeable battery.

Learn more about Hamid and his invention by reading my newest piece for The Costco Connection magazine, published in its June issue, available here.

May 25, 2020

Squirrels in the attic? Here's how to get them out

Bats in the belfry are a problem. Bees in your bonnet are no picnic, either. But squirrels scrounging around in your attic or another part of your home can drive you nuts, as they can make a mess, start a family, and chew through wires--creating a fire hazard.

My latest article for Millionacres, the Motley Fool's new site for property investors, explains how to solve this squirrelly problem (click here for the full read).

May 18, 2020

Talking tigers, dishing dragons


For Cineversary podcast episode #23, host Erik Martin treks to China with Kenneth Chan, director of film studies at the University of Northern Colorado, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," directed by Ang Lee. Erik and Kenneth explore why this standout film is worth honoring all these years later, its cultural impact and legacy, what we can learn from the picture today, how it has stood the test of time, and more.
Kenneth Chan

To listen to this episode, click here or click the "play" button on the embedded streaming player below. Or, you can stream, download or subscribe to the Cineversary podcast using Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Breaker, Castbox, Pocket Casts, Google Play Music, PodBean, RadioPublic, and Overcast.

Learn more about the Cineversary podcast at tinyurl.com/cineversarypodcast and email show comments or suggestions to cineversegroup@gmail.com.

May 10, 2020

Helpspeak

They say a business is only as good as the service it provides to its customers. Hence, in an increasingly digital world where consumers are more accepting of customer self-service and non-human agents online and by phone, it makes sense for enterprises to automate more of their customer service interactions—particularly with the aid of speech technology. To do otherwise risks frustration and abandonment from clientele seeking speedy help, the experts agree.

Consider that the interactive voice response systems that companies have been using for years now are becoming more conversational with the help of artificial intelligence and speech technology advancements like voice-enabled chatbots. Intelligent virtual assistants can understand human speech in many languages and respond using text-to-speech, allowing customer service to authenticate callers via voice, look up orders, make appointments, accept payments, answer a variety of queries, and more. Speech-to-text voice transcription technology, long used to garner insights into call data, is now being increasingly employed for analytics to better understand customer needs and trends. And more businesses are relying on Natural Language Understanding to review and auto-respond to customer tickets.

These are some of the speech tech innovations that have companies large and small abuzz with excitement in recent years over the prospect of streamlining customer service departments and call centers. But adopting these capabilities may not be easy or inexpensive. Understanding the capabilities, limitations, challenges, and adoption steps required can help organizations choose the right solutions.

I explore this fascinating tech topic in my newest story for Speech Technology magazine, available here.

May 3, 2020

Chew on this

In 2020, snacks matter more than ever to convenience store owners and operators. This is a channel, after all, where operators can capitalize on the fact that consumers gobble up 2.7 snacks a day, on average (with 47% eating three or more snacks daily), per data from Chicago-based IRI.

But it’s the kind and quantity of noshes that are making c-store snack experts sit up and pay closer attention lately. That’s because snack drivers and occasions continue to evolve. For example, polling from CSP sister research firm Technomic shows that consumers are more likely to eat smaller meals across their day, with the period between breakfast and lunch proving to be a winner for promoting in-store snacks; it’s no surprise, then, that 73% of convenience stores provide midmorning snacks among their offerings—more than any other foodservice channel.

Curious what other snacking trends are observed among convenience store customers? Read my newest article for CSP Magazine, available here.

April 26, 2020

Difficulty qualifying for a mortgage? Try an FHA loan

You want to buy a home so bad you can practically taste it. Yet you have less-than-desirable credit and not enough salted away for a down payment as you had hoped.

Truth is, it’s likely going to be difficult to qualify for a conventional mortgage loan. That’s because traditional home loans often require putting more than 5% down and having a FICO credit score in the 640 or higher range.

But you’re not licked. Fortunately, there are options you can pursue that can fulfill your dream of homeownership. One of them is an FHA loan, which is backed by the government and offered by lenders approved by the Federal Housing Administration.

Learn more about an FHA home mortgage by reading my article on this topic for my newest client, The Lenders Network, available here.

April 20, 2020

The hills are alive with the sound of Cineversary

For Cineversary podcast episode #22, host Erik Martin sings the praises of "The Sound of Music," celebrating a 55th anniversary this month, and is joined by Julia Hirsch, former story editor for director Robert Wise and author of the book "The Sound of Music: The Making of America’s Favorite Movie." Erik and Julia examine why this beloved musical is worth celebrating all these years later, its cultural impact and legacy, what we can learn from the picture today, how it has stood the test of time, and more.

Julia Hirsch
To listen to this episode, click here or click the "play" button on the embedded streaming player below. Or, you can stream, download or subscribe to the Cineversary podcast using Apple PodcastsStitcherSpotifyGoogle PodcastsBreakerCastboxPocket CastsGoogle Play MusicPodBeanRadioPublic, and Overcast.

Learn more about the Cineversary podcast at tinyurl.com/cineversarypodcast and email show comments or suggestions to cineversegroup@gmail.com.

April 12, 2020

Spotlight on repurposed products

There are many things you can do to lessen your ecological impact and protect the environment—from reducing electrical consumption and driving a hybrid car to recycling your trash and planting a tree. But there’s another sustainable step you also take, one that combines your passion for the planet with your love of gardening and alfresco entertaining: Opt for lawn and garden products made from repurposed materials.

More brands today are recycling plastic, rubber, and other discarded ingredients and transforming them into popular products that can be used in your yard, including mulch, landscape fabric, and outdoor furniture. Only consumers are getting more than merely guilt-free green goods; they’re also benefitting from high-quality durable merch, say the experts.

For success stories and more information, read my latest article for The Costco Connection, available here.

April 5, 2020

Thinking about refinancing? Here's what you need to know

Mortgage rates hit an all-time low recently. That has prompted a flurry of homeowners to refinance. Others may be waiting things out or need to know more before proceeding. They may be asking themselves: How does refinancing work? And what is refinancing a home all about?

The refinancing process isn’t much different from what was involved when you first purchased your home and closed on a mortgage. Understanding how refinancing works and the options available to you can put you in a better position to make a more informed decision. To help guide your choices, read my first article for new client Bankrate.com, available here.

March 28, 2020

How to pause mortgage payments if coronavirus has crippled your finances

The coronavirus presents many challenges to Americans. These include the potential loss of work and income. That can be frightening for homeowners with a mortgage to consider. Fortunately, there are mortgage relief choices you can pursue if COVID-19 causes financial hardship. One of them is mortgage forbearance.

Forecast your prospects and explore options that can make things easier until your economic situation improves. Talking with your lender about your situation and solutions available can provide better peace of mind.

Learn more by reading my latest The Mortgage Reports story on this topic, available here.

March 23, 2020

3 strategies for curbing COVID-19-related business losses

The worldwide coronavirus outbreak threatens to disrupt operations for companies large and small for the foreseeable future. In fact, 82% of business leaders recently surveyed by the Young President’s Organization anticipate revenue declines over the next six months. To help stem losses, 95% of chief executives polled are taking action, including canceling major events (64%), nixing business travel (53%), cutting costs (39%), and allowing employees to telecommute (28%).

While there’s much a small business owner can’t control during uncertain times like these, they can take steps to protect their enterprise from being financially crippled by COVID-19. For advice, I reached out to three experts, each of whom I interviewed for a new article on this topic published on the US Chamber of Commerce's CO―website, available here.

March 15, 2020

A podcast about "Airplane!"? Surely you can't be serious...

For Cineversary podcast episode #21, host Erik Martin yuks it up with guests Michael Digiovanni and Andrew Bloom, hosts of the Classic Film Jerks podcast, to honor the 40th anniversary of one of the funniest flicks ever, "Airplane!", directed by Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker. Collectively, they examine why this comedy gem is worth celebrating all these years later, its cultural impact and legacy, what we can learn from the picture today, how it has stood the test of time, and more.
Andrew Bloom (left) and Michael Digiovanni

To listen to this episode, click here or click the "play" button on the embedded streaming player below. Or, you can stream, download or subscribe to the Cineversary podcast using Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Breaker, Castbox, Pocket Casts, Google Play Music, PodBean, RadioPublic, and Overcast.

Learn more about the Cineversary podcast at tinyurl.com/cineversarypodcast and email show comments or suggestions to cineversegroup@gmail.com.