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Yoodli Announces $6M Funding for AI Platform to Overcome Fear of Public Speaking

Yoodli

Yoodli, a startup building an artificial intelligence platform to help people communicate more effectively, announced that it has raised $6 million in a seed round co-led by Madrona Venture Group and Cercano Management (formerly Vulcan Capital). Other investors include J4 Ventures, Ascend, Jeff Richards from GGV Capital, Dave Rosenberg (founder of Mulesoft), and renowned communication experts Renn Vara and Maureen Taylor. Yoodli is already being used by thousands of professional speakers, coaches, students, and corporate professionals to get data-driven insights on their speaking presentations. “Effective communication is the single determinant of success in the workplace and more broadly in life,” said Craig Valentine, Toastmasters World Champion of Public Speaking. “I’ve been working with clients for over 20 years, but Yoodli has completely transformed my coaching business. I’m now able to work with many more clients at once while saving up to 10 hours per week! I ask my clients to record their practice sessions on Yoodli, improve with AI feedback, and then share their speeches with me for asynchronous work. AI will not replace speech coaches but is certainly helping us be more efficient.” Yoodli makes preparing for a speech or interview fun and judgment-free. The platform provides an instant transcript and real-time analysis on your use of filler words, non-inclusive language, pacing, body language, and much more. It also makes it easy to collaborate with friends and coaches on upcoming presentations. Want to test your ability to think on your feet or strike up a conversation with a stranger? Try the one minute ‘Spin a Yarn’ challenge, which throws out fun words to blend into a compelling impromptu speech. The seed round brings Yoodli’s total funding to $7.1 million. The new funds will be used to support Yoodli’s product development, as well as sales and marketing expansion. Patrick Ennis, who has decades of experience as a scientist, engineer, businessman, and venture capitalist at Madrona, ARCH Venture Partners, Intellectual Ventures, and Bell Labs, will be joining the Yoodli Board of Directors. “We are delighted to support Yoodli’s journey,” Ennis said. “The fear of public speaking has affected humanity throughout history and across cultures. At Madrona, we see the massive impact that Yoodli will have by improving communication for everyone.” Yoodli’s founders, Esha Joshi and Varun Puri, are deeply familiar with the fear of public speaking and teamed up to start Yoodli at the Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence in June 2021. Yoodli’s team includes engineers and product managers from Facebook, Apple, Google, and an advisory board consisting of TEDx coaches, top AI researchers, among others. Yoodli uses natural language processing, computer vision, and speech algorithms to help users get detailed feedback on speeches recorded on the platform. The speeches are private to the user but shareable to friends, coaches, and others if external feedback is desired. Becoming a good public speaker is no small task, and to prove that point Yoodli has analyzed the speeches of famous celebrities, tech execs, and politicians. Even some of the world’s most prominent figures are not perfect when it comes to speech delivery. Elon Musk, for example, might have a limited word count on Twitter, but he used over 70 filler and hedging words (“really,” “basically”, “actually”) in a 5-minute window during a 2014 commencement speech. Check it out at https://app.yoodli.ai/share/gfYhf3qU. Yoodli allows you to record and playback your speech with filler words removed, and then provides simple, strategic and customized tips to help you refine and improve your public speaking skills. The platform is free and can be accessed at www.yoodli.ai. About Yoodli: Yoodli is an AI-enabled communication skills improvement platform that records users as they deliver presentations, and then points out tips such as where they could speak more clearly, cutting back on "ums" and filler words, as well as improving their use of eye contact and gestures. Users can also solicit feedback from colleagues and get connected to an expert coach. The company was founded in 2021 and is based in Seattle, Washington. Contact Details Forrest Carman +1 206-859-3118 forrestc@owenmedia.com Company Website https://www.yoodli.ai/

August 08, 2022 09:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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Back-to-School Wellness Sets Students up for Success

YourUpdateTV

Wellness remains top of mind as parents start to prepare for the upcoming school year, as it is a big contributor to their children’s success. But creating healthy routines during the transition from Summer to back to school is not always easy. Whether it’s meal prep, building in a balanced diet, shifting weather patterns or busy schedules, parents are balancing a lot. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/dWT8EHKnR4o To help achieve success in the 2022-23 school year, it is important to focus on daily routines that enhance your kids’ lives. In fact, eating well throughout childhood and adolescence supports proper growth and development while preventing various health conditions. The CDC recommends meals containing fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fat-free and low-fat dairy products, oils, and a variety of proteins. There are many ways to achieve these goals, including solid food, vitamin supplements, and plant-based protein. Additionally, youth should avoid empty calories. Added sugars and solid fats contribute to 40% of daily intake for those 2-18 years of age. Approximately half of these empty calories come from soda, pizza, and whole milk. Beyond diet, exercise and well-being also contribute to a student’s success in the classroom. A U.S. study showed that when pollen counts doubled, a percentage of elementary schoolers saw a drop in testing scores when compared to their counterparts. Nearly 1.7 million children have one or more allergies. Antihistamines can help treat symptoms and hives so children can stay focused on their studies, extracurricular activities and more time outside. Syn hopes to help parents plot out their family’s nutrition and wellness plans throughout the upcoming school year. KICK OFF THE DAY WITH BREAKFAST: An easy way for to start off a new school year is with breakfast. Syn says it helps a child's attention span, concentration and memory—all important for learning in school. “Maybe kick off the day with something fun and tasty like banana pancakes or mini-fruit kebobs. The kebobs are easy to make with pineapple, strawberries, grapes, and blueberries—just pair it with a flavored yogurt as dip,” adding, “You can also try apple cinnamon oatmeal. Grab a store-bought oatmeal and top it with apples, cinnamon, raisins and pecans.” The goal is to make sure children have the energy they need to make it to lunchtime. SWITCH UP THE MENU: Syn admits that the school year can get hectic, and parents are often left looking for convenient ways to eat well throughout the entire day. However, we all know convenient doesn’t always equal healthy. The registered dietician and nutritionist recommends Sweet Earth Foods, which offers delicious, flavor-forward and nutrient-dense vegan and vegetarian options that are perfect to have on-hand during the back-to-school season. Two options Syn highlights include the Korean BBQ-Style Chik’n entrée bowl, which has lots of veggies like edamame, snap peas, and a cauliflower rice blend. She says, “The sweet and spicy Gochujang style sauce is packed with flavor and everyone in the family will love it. And since it’s a prepared meal, all you have to do is heat and eat; it’s ready in just 3 minutes in the microwave or 20 minutes in the oven.” “The Mindful Chik’n comes ready-to-eat and has the taste and texture of traditional chicken with 18 grams of protein, making it a perfect addition to weekday meals,” says Syn, adding, “You can serve it fresh from the fridge or cooked in a family favorite recipe, like chik’n fajitas, a stir fry, or even a chik’n pesto pizza.” Sweet Earth products are available at retailers nationwide. Consumers can also find them at a nearby store by using the store locator found at SweetEarthFoods.com. Direct link: https://www.goodnes.com/sweet-earth/ Social media handles: @sweetearthfoods Facebook Instagram Pinterest Twitter CUT DOWN ON CLEAN UP TIME: Parents are always searching for extra time, especially during the school year. Syn says there is a way to make mealtimes even more convenient, while reducing stress in the kitchen. Whether it’s breakfast, a lunch on the go, or dinner, the Chinet® brand can help make cleanup easier, allowing parents more time to focus on other aspects of life, including personal wellness. Syn says the Chinet Classic® products are made for exactly what’s on your menu, adding, “They’re perfect for a bowl of cereal or oatmeal, or a plate of bacon and eggs during breakfast. Obviously, they make lunch and dinner clean up easier than ever!” She points out how the Chinet Comfort® cups are perfect for morning coffee or a “make your own” espresso bar. She says, “The cups are sturdy, keep your drinks warm, and the lids help protect from accidental spills.” For more information, go to mychinet.com. Direct link: https://www.mychinet.com/products/ Social media handles: Facebook.com/mychinet Instagram.com/mychinet Twitter.com/mychinet SPEND MORE TIME OUTSIDE: Nearly 1.7 million children have one or more allergies. With allergy season about to kick off in parts of the country, Syn says there is a way for parents to give their kids some relief so they can still enjoy the outdoors as they head back to school. “So, when it comes to back-to-school prep, parents will want to ensure their kids are feeling well and at their best,” adding, “Children’s Claritin® is the #1 pediatrician recommended non-drowsy oral OTC allergy brand and provides kids with indoor and outdoor allergy relief whenever they need it most.” New research finds that children spend less than eight minutes playing outside each day. The registered dietician and nutritionist is inspired by the brand’s commitment to help kids spend more time outside. “Through their multi-year initiative, The Outsideologist Project, Claritin® is committed to helping kids get outside one more hour a week by providing expert-curated outdoor activity ideas. It can be anything from going to the local playground, playing hopscotch, or even tossing a ball in the backyard.” For more, check out @outsideologistproject on Instagram and Facebook for fun and exciting ideas and inspiration to help children spend more time outside. Direct link: https://www.claritin.com/the-outsideologist-project Social media handles: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OutsideologistProject/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outsideologistproject/?hl=en Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

August 05, 2022 12:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Theorem Expands AdOps, Order-to-Cash and Automation Services, Increasing Productivity & Cash Flow to Media and Entertainment Companies

Theorem Inc

Theorem, a full-service flexible digital marketing solutions provider, with over 20 years of experience successfully streamlining ad operations for the world's leading media and entertainment brands, is expanding its automation services for publishers, video and audio streaming companies. Theorem’s new AdOps automation and order-to-cash (OTC) offerings are designed to help media and entertainment brands grow their revenue through a unique mix of human intelligence, machine learning, and automation technologies. Ad Operations challenges are being felt across the media and entertainment industry as more brands are looking to advertising as a monetization model. The need for campaign scalability is greater than ever before. Order volume is out-scaling the manual elements of existing processes. Companies with an ever-growing daily volume of short-lived ad placements are experiencing high volumes of error rates, limitations in trafficking and reporting capabilities, and slowdowns in revenue recognition speed as a result of their heavily manual ad ops and order-to-cash processes. Theorem’s industry-first automation services provide unique expertise and mastery of advertising products that are overlaid with automation IP. The solutions eliminate manual data entry, reduce error margins, and increase productivity and scale, enabling media and entertainment companies to speed up their order cycles and grow revenues faster. Theorem’s new automation services benefits include: Decreased manual labor and people-related attrition Return on investment of around 50% and cost savings Faster order-to-cash and revenue recognition Increased productivity Simplified digital processes Reduction in error rates Future-proof scalability Theorem works with top media and entertainment companies including Turner, News Corp, Hearst, Pandora, and 30+ brands that span the streaming, audio, OTT and publishing sectors. Through its automation services, Theorem decreases manual AdOps processes by as much as 50%, which has allowed such companies to realize greater revenue from their digital advertising initiatives. “Most media and entertainment companies either have automation built for internal use or they have generic automation products, which are not mapped to the digital marketing workflow. We developed our new automation services to address this growing gap in the market, which is contributing to significant revenue loss for publishers and others looking to advertising as a top revenue stream,” said Jay Kulkarni, CEO, Theorem. “From our decades of expertise in AdOps and OTC, we know that refining these processes leads to huge gains and also sets businesses up for long-term success.” Theorem’s expertise is built on 20+ years of refining and scaling ad operations and order-to-cash processes with global media and entertainment companies, helping them address the common challenges of manual trafficking, reporting, and billing. Leveraging automation to reduce these manual, costly, time-consuming, and error-prone tasks enables clients to get the most out of their ad operations processes. Theorem’s new and unique automation services are designed to future-proof digital marketing operations by reducing the operational cost of managing AdOps and creating greater revenue opportunities for publishers across all categories. About Theorem Founded in 2002, Theorem creates, delivers and optimizes digital marketing campaigns for some of the world's most successful brands. By offering scaled technology, media, operations, marketing, CRM, and creative solutions under one roof, Theorem can provide flexible, full-service marketing solutions to their clients. Theorem’s consultancy teams and operational expertise helps brands simplify, streamline and automate complex digital tasks. This value exchange saves clients time, reduces their costs, and increases their revenue. For more information, visit www.theoreminc.net. Contact Details Kite Hill PR Isabella Roy +1 843-693-7161 isabella@kitehillpr.com Company Website https://theoreminc.net/

August 04, 2022 09:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Investis Digital Ranks the Top 100 Leaders in ESG Communications

Investis Digital

Investis Digital, a leading global digital communications company, announced today the publication of a 2022 ranking of the Top 100 global leaders that use digital most effectively to build their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reputations. The first-of-its-kind rankings were published in a report, The ESG 100, which offers insight into how businesses can build trust through their commitment to ESG. The rankings, based on a thorough analysis of investor relations (IR) and corporate communications websites, identified the following companies in the Top 10: 1. Unilever 2. Nestle 3. NatWest Group 4. SAP 5. Legal & General 6. BHP 7. Kingfisher Plc 8. AstraZeneca 9. Coca-Cola HBC 10. Informa To rank these leaders, Investis Digital applied its Connect.IQ proprietary tool and methodology to evaluate 1,000 websites of the leading publicly traded companies around the world. The company scored the companies along 50 ESG criteria, such as: A dedicated ESG and/or sustainability section. ESG strategy and approach, quantified. Statement of ESG principles and policies. Climate change topics and related risks. Greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1, 2 & 3). Materiality assessment, quantified. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) topics. Diversity and inclusion reporting. The ESG 100 also offers insights into how businesses can more effectively share their ESG story based on Investis Digital’s own client work. For example, the report offers tips for how businesses can share their diversity/inclusion strategies on their websites. “In the age of stakeholder activism, global companies are under more pressure to share credible ESG strategies with every audience ranging from investors to their own employees, and The ESG 100 gives businesses a benchmark for what success looks like,” said Kristen Kalupski, global senior vice president of marketing at Investis Digital. “The Top 10 ESG companies consistently set clear ESG goals and share measurable progress toward meeting those goals through data-driven storytelling.” The Top 10 from the 100 best companies excelled in crucial categories such as reporting on Scope 1, 2, and 3 greenhouse gas emissions – which is especially important at a time when the world is more acutely aware of the interconnected nature of global supply chains. In addition, the leaders consistently made their ESG data downloadable and transparent, documented how well their efforts align with multiple ratings agencies and frameworks, published content that speaks to their approach with specific industry issues, stated their carbon neutral commitment and articulated a roadmap to net zero. “The leaders do more than share data,” said Kalupski. “Leaders build trust through transparency.” Grounded in its mission to create meaningful connections through digital to drive business performance, Investis Digital is committed to creating long-term value for its stakeholders through its proprietary approach called Connected Content™. As businesses update their ESG strategies, they’re also taking a closer look at how well they communicate those strategies to investors, customers, job seekers and employees who look toward corporations to play a more meaningful role in society. To read the full report, click here. Read more about Investis Digital’s work with ESG communications here. Investis Digital is a global digital communications company. Through a proprietary approach we call Connected Content™, we unite compelling communications, intelligent digital experiences, and performance marketing to help companies build deeper connections with audiences and drive business performance. A unique blend of expertise, technology and “always on” service allow clients to trust that their digital footprint and brand reputation is secure and protected 24/7 by our dedicated team of 600 digital experts across 9 global offices. To learn more, please visit www.InvestisDigital.com. Contact Details Investis Digital Kristen Kalupski +1 312-933-6714 Kristen.kalupski@investisdigital.com Company Website https://www.investisdigital.com

August 04, 2022 07:54 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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“Place & Purpose,” Video Podcast Series With Greg Sarris and Obi Kaufmann, Explores How the Ancient Natural World Connects to Modern California

Greg Sarris

“Place & Purpose” debuts Thursday, August 4, live from the backcountry of Sonoma Mountain. The first in a series of monthly live events, hosts Greg Sarris and Obi Kaufmann will explore the passing seasons and reflect on whether or not so many patterns of the past are unraveling in wake of a fast-approaching future. Sarris and Kaufmann are storytellers for whom the chaos of the modern world is tempered by a deep connection to land, home and community. “We recognize that today’s society seems as challenged to remember the things it should, as it is to let go of the things that no longer serve,” stated Sarris. “We’re excited to explore the great opportunities for all of us to consider where our place and purpose fits into the larger natural world,” said Kaufmann. About the Series: “Place & Purpose” With Greg Sarris and Obi Kaufmann Length: 1 hour More info and link to the event: http://www.placeandpurpose.live About the Hosts: Greg Sarris is the author of “Becoming Story,” the anthology “Keeping Slug Woman Alive: A Holistic Approach to American Indian Texts,” the novel “Watermelon Nights,” and scripts for screen and stage including HBO’s “Grand Avenue.” He is Chairman of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria and is a Distinguished Chair Emeritus in Native American Studies at Sonoma State University. Obi Kaufmann is an American naturalist, writer, and illustrator. He is the author of “The California Field Atlas,” a guide to the state's ecology and geography. The book features hundreds of his watercolor paintings of maps, wildlife and other aspects of nature. Other works include “The State of Water: Understanding California's Most Precious Resource,” “The Forests of California,” “The Coasts of California” and “The Deserts of California.” ### Contact Details Landis Communications Inc. Brianne Miller +1 650-575-7727 brianne@landispr.com Company Website https://www.placeandpurpose.live/

August 03, 2022 08:02 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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A Million Dollars Will ‘Level Up’ Thousands of Houston Area Residents Out of Digital Divide

Comcast Houston

If you’ve ever played a popular 80’s video game, then you know about the disadvantages your character has right out of the gate. You can’t jump as high or as far, and it’s easier to lose the level and have to start all over again. But in the first few seconds, there’s usually always a chance to ‘level up’ your character. Instantly, you can jump higher and farther, run faster and if you encounter an enemy, you still have another chance at winning the level. There are thousands of Houston area residents who — from a digital perspective — aren’t ‘leveled up” and therefore struggle to participate in the digital economy. Some Houstonians still don’t know how to surf the web, write emails or create a resume. Others don’t even have a reliable and fast internet connection in their homes. The digital divide is still big. According to the 2020 U.S. Census Bureau’s American Communities Survey, one in ten households, or 687,086 households, in the greater Houston area do not have an internet subscription or do not have a computer. They want to ‘level up’, and they are about to get it. Comcast, the Houston area’s largest internet service provider, is giving more than one million dollars this year to local organizations that help students, adults and people with disabilities ‘level up’ their computer, career development and tech education skills. The million-dollar investment will also support ongoing efforts to build awareness about low-cost or no-cost connectivity programs like Internet Essentials and the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). “These investments are a part of Comcast’s ongoing efforts to make a real difference in southeast Texas by giving families an opportunity to thrive in this digital age,” Ralph Martinez, Comcast Houston’s Regional Senior Vice President, said. “The Internet is where life happens. It allows students to expand their educational aspirations and it empowers parents to explore better job openings so they can ultimately deliver a better quality of life for their families.” So far, Comcast has given grants to eight Houston area organizations. More announcements will be made later this year. United Way | Funding will be used to provide tech experts (Digital Navigators) to help people in need of digital skills training. BakerRipley | Funding will support computer skills, software, email and internet safety training for low-income adults in the Houston area. Comp-U-Dopt | Funding will support students participating in Early Adopters, STEAM Team and Learn2Earn, which brings technology education to area youth. Comp-U-Dopt will also use the funding to provide tech experts (Digital Navigators) to help people in need of digital skills training. Easter Seals of Greater Houston | Funding will support the development of a curriculum for people with disabilities to help them successfully learn to use digital technology to gain and maintain employment. The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Houston | Funding will help high school students gain technical and leadership skills through the Workforce Readiness Program. AAMA | Funding will be used to purchase technology and equipment to support students through the training program at the Work and Learn Center, with an emphasis on digital literacy and design. Dress for Success | Funding will be used to provide Houston-area women with the resources needed to obtain long-term employment through access to job readiness training, digital skills workshops, computers and mobile labs. AVANCE-Houston | Funding will support adult literacy program and continue to build pathways to economic mobility for families in the community. “We are passionate about doing our part to help close the digital divide and committed to helping establish a more equitable foundation for learning, working and succeeding,” Martinez said. Comcast remains steadfast in its efforts to connect people to moments that matter, to connect families to opportunities in Southeast Texas. For more than a decade, the company has offered Internet Essentials to help low-income Americans access reliable, high-speed internet. Comcast is now a proud champion of the federal government’s new Affordable Connectivity Program. ACP gives qualifying households up to $30 towards their monthly internet bill. With ACP, Comcast’s Internet Essentials internet service is free. As more Houston area residents get the ‘level up’ they need, just like in their gameplay, they will have more chances to keep advancing—better jobs, better education, innovation, opportunities and yes, more fun and better gaming. Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on connectivity, aggregation and streaming with 57 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Comcast Houston Steve Campion +1 832-920-2001 Steve_Campion@comcast.com Company Website https://houston.comcast.com/

August 02, 2022 08:40 AM Central Daylight Time

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Amesite Reports Partnering With Conner Prairie To Launch Next-Generation Educational Tools

Amesite Inc.

Amesite Inc. (NASDAQ: AMST) is an artificial intelligence (AI) software company offering a cloud-based learning platform and custom course creation for businesses, universities, nonprofits and government agencies. Amesite boasts many strategic partnerships, but its collaboration with Conner Prairie, a living history museum in Indiana, has garnered attention. Amesite says it has implemented plans to deliver eLearning solutions, powered by its online ecosystem, with an anticipated public launch in Fall 2022. Amesite’s online Learning Community Environment™ system will offer K-12 programs for teachers, parents, life-long learners and students. The system is reportedly up-to-date with the latest of Amesite’s technology, including powerful AI solutions to deliver low-cost, scalable and customized educational content. As a partner, Conner Prairie will have autonomy on curating and developing branded content in line with its current research and resources. At its disposal are advanced technology tools within an intuitive design framework. Participants will have the opportunity not only to learn but also engage with Conner Prairie’s information content presented through Amesite. True to the Amesite way, knowledge will be delivered in a digital, easy-to-use and collaborative format. About Conner Prairie Conner Prairie is a living museum in Indiana and one of the largest attractions in the Midwest region, with over 400,000 annual visitors. Conner Prairie plays an important societal role in Indiana as a knowledge resource and innovator of science, history, art and nature. The market size of the museum industry in the United States, perhaps surprisingly, reached $15.4 billion in 2021, denoting a 19 percent increase over the previous year's figure of $12.9 billion. This sector's market size was forecast to rise further in the following year, with an estimated six percent growth. Conner Prairie is fundamentally about learning and contextualizing how society has grown and evolved throughout history. Numerous educational tools are used to give visitors a truly immersive and collaborative experience. Conner Prairie is also dedicated to modernized learning tools and digital education programs, especially in an effort to foster the relationships between remote visitors and members that are not on-site. Amesite says its digital learning software solutions will allow for deeper collaboration with Conner Prairie and the educational community. Amesite will deliver its entire ecosystem of education software solutions for Conner Prairie. This will enable Conner Prairie to create customized, branded digital learning courses and materials for the global community, giving users the opportunities to learn from anywhere, anytime. Conner Prairie emphasized the importance of having a partner that cares about learning and the last mile, which it found with Amesite. According to Norman Burns, President and CEO of Conner Prairie, "Since 1934, Conner Prairie has followed founder Eli Lilly's intention to make Conner Prairie a place where history and learning can occur in ways that books cannot teach," he said. "The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need to find new ways to meet schoolchildren and educators where they were, despite health, geographical or financial barriers. Through our partnership with Amesite, we are furthering our mission to inspire curiosity and foster learning by providing engaging and individualized experiences for everyone." Burns added that "we are excited to partner with Amesite to create this new innovative digital learning platform that will expand our capabilities to deliver best-in-class online learning experiences to our global community. It is yet another example of how Conner Prairie is changing the way the world views and uses museums." About Amesite Amesite is a SaaS educational company employing what it says is the most advanced AI-driven online learning platform in the industry. Its solutions include end-to-end infrastructure for customized, branded learning content creation and online course creation. Amesite’s platform is integrated with Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ: MSFT) Azure Cloud, allowing for enhanced scalability and speed. Amesite is a player in the multi-billion-dollar online learning market for business and education. Other key players within this space include Coursera Inc. (NYSE: COUR) and Powerschool Holdings Inc. (NYSE: PWSC). Learn more about Amesite’s solutions here. This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Amesite Inc., an artificial intelligence driven platform and course designer, provides online products in the United States. The company uses machine learning to offer a mass customized experience to learners. Its customers include businesses, universities and colleges, K-12 schools, and non-profit organizations. The company was incorporated in 2017 and is headquartered in Detroit, Michigan. This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Amesite, Inc. +1 734-876-8141 info@amesite.com Company Website http://www.amesite.io

August 01, 2022 04:47 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Minuteman Press Million-Dollar Owners Thomas and Denise Batliner Share Keys to Business Growth in Louisville, KY

Minuteman Press International Inc

Thomas and Denise Batliner have owned their Minuteman Press franchise located at 3905 Bardstown Road since November of 2005. With over 16 years in business, Thomas shares the following insights that helped he and Denise grow their business in Louisville and become members of the Minuteman Press International President’s Million-Dollar Circle. On this accomplishment, Thomas says, “Denise and I believe marketing efforts, customer service, networking, and a little luck have been vital to our success and longevity. We would like to place special emphasis on customer service. At Minuteman Press in Louisville, we focus on treating the customer as we would like to be treated. We believe anyone who walks through the door can be our next biggest customer, and hospitality may make or break the possible relationship.” He continues, “Over the past 16+ years in business, Denise and I have grown the business by developing relationships with new customer bases. More specifically, we gained these relationships through acquisitions. For example, in August of 2012, we purchased an independent printer. This acquisition almost doubled our 2011 sales in addition to our everyday marketing and networking. Then, in December of 2020, we purchased an independent promotional products company. Like our 2012 acquisition, we almost doubled the past year’s sales. Our new customers are the key to our success, and we appreciate their continued business and loyalty.” From the US Navy to Owning a Printing Business Prior to franchising with Minuteman Press, Thomas Batliner served in the US Navy. He shares, “We didn't start Minuteman Press until 2005 when I was 38 years old. Before reaching this point, I served in the United States Navy for three years where I specialized in aviation hydraulics (AMH3). This military experience reinforced the work ethic instilled in me at a young age while farming with my family and has played a vital role in driving my determination to stay in the printing industry.” Thomas continues, “Furthermore, after being honorably discharged, I was a tool and die specialist by trade before being promoted to an estimator at a plastics manufacturer, Beach, Mold, and Tool, now known as NYX. While in this role, I earned an associate degree in Business. But most importantly, I decided I wanted to drive my career and become an entrepreneur. Minuteman Press matched this goal because of the low initial investment, and the business presented the new challenge I was seeking.” “Minuteman Press International supported me from the beginning before I had any professional knowledge about the printing industry. For instance, at the initial home office training, I learned basic facts about paper stocks and more information regarding machine availability and capabilities. Lastly, our office utilizes FLEX, the workflow software developed by Minuteman Press that constantly evolves to add effective apps that drive marketing value.” – Thomas Batliner, owner, Minuteman Press, Louisville, KY Leveraging Local Business Relationships & Benefits of Printing Today When asked what it has been like to own a business in Louisville for over 16 years, Thomas shares, “We are in an urban area and serve a diverse community. There are people from many varying backgrounds, and we have learned about different cultures from around the world. Additionally, we are part of a community where nearby business owners help and look out for one another. For instance, a nearby competitor has helped us continue production during machine downtime and meet customer demand. To return this favor, we have been known to share our resources if this competitor is short-staffed. Because of this dynamic, we believe it is important to develop healthy relationships with everyone in the community, even those with competing business goals.” Thomas explains why printing remains so vital today, sharing, “We believe printing remains vital today because it secures a company’s mission. In terms of management, it also provides different avenues for documentation. To illustrate, when a business provides a digital or physical copy of an employee handbook to its staff, it can better document and communicate expectations and other important information.” He adds, “The main benefit of print is that it can be found everywhere, from the menu you use at your favorite restaurant menu to the branded t-shirt you buy at the store. Because of print's presence, companies always need it. Even during uncertain times like the pandemic, manufacturing facilities, hospitals, and a variety of other companies needed printed materials promoting safety warnings and best practices.” “Our highest demand products and services include envelopes, every door direct mail (EDDM), and wide format printing, a powerful visual medium used for larger files such as blueprints and banners. Our customers value these products and services because they can reach a larger audience. In addition to our highest demand products, key growth areas for our business are promotional products and branded apparel. For example, the customers from our acquisition of the promotional products company have driven sales and we have added a new product line that existing customers can access.” –Thomas Batliner Rewards of Owning a Business & Advice to Others As Thomas and Denise reflect on their accomplishments, there are a couple of items that really stick out. Thomas says, “The biggest personal reward for Denise and me was the ability to put both of our children through college as traditional four-year students. Lauren, our oldest, is now a critical care nurse and Erica, our youngest, is a sourcing and supply chain professional.” He adds, “Aside from this personal reward, our biggest professional reward was receiving our plaque for the Minuteman Press International President's Million Dollar circle. After 16+ years of business, it was an honor to achieve such a high sales goal and to meet others who have accomplished the same or more.” Thomas shares the following advice to today’s aspiring business owners, saying, “The advice I would give to someone looking to own a business is ‘do your homework.’ You need to choose something you can be passionate about and enjoy daily. Despite the hard work ahead of you, because there are some long days and weeks, it can be very rewarding.” For more information on Minuteman Press in Louisville, Kentucky, visit https://minuteman.com/us/locations/ky/louisville20/ Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

August 01, 2022 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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ToT Foundation launches to foster equity, progress for Black Americans

ToT Partners

Wall Street veteran William Tillman, founder of ToT Partners, today announced the establishment of the ToT Foundation, a new philanthropic venture to connect Black individuals to business opportunities, resources, and mentorship. The Foundation concurrently announced the date of its inaugural gala, Sept. 11 at Rainbow Room in New York City. “Nobody who’s serious is arguing that the playing field is equal and fair for Black Americans—not on Wall Street, not on Main Street, and not anywhere else,” said Tillman. “The ToT Foundation is transparent in its mission: To help Black persons gain advantages in business that lead to positive reputations and generational wealth so that they can then pay those advantages forward to the next generation.” The Foundation also announced the appointment of Steve Month as an independent strategic advisor. Month is a private equity executive who spent ten years as Managing Director, Investment Banking/M&A at Citigroup. He is a graduate of Harvard Business School and Harvard Law School. Prior to ToT, Tillman ran the gauntlet across Wall Street, having worked in private wealth management and asset management at Morgan Stanley; commercial real estate at Deutsche Bank; equity derivatives trading at Societe Generale; and credit sales and trading, private credit financing, and mergers and acquisitions at Citigroup. During this time, he was mentored by some of the biggest names in business and finance. He established ToT Partners in 2022 to leverage his knowledge and experience for clients on his own terms. ToT Partners is a parent company with a plethora of business and philanthropic interests. It currently operates a merchant banking and private equity arm, DB Capital, and a luxurious private dining business, Taste of Tillman. Hailing from Florida, where he and his grandmother hand-delivered meals to victims of the United States’ draconian, repressive drug-enforcement policy of the 80s, Tillman made his way to Wall Street and worked for numerous prestigious firms. He has put his time and Wall Street earnings to philanthropic use on an individual basis ever since, as a mentor and connector, and the ToT Foundation, which has filed for 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, is an evolution of that philanthropy. The ToT Foundation’s financial support comes from Wall Street firms, hedge funds, private equity funds, and well-known hospitality businesses. Tickets to the gala are being provided on an invitation-only basis; contact Tillman directly to inquire about sponsorships and attendance. About ToT Partners ToT Partners was founded by William Nicholas Tillman in 2022. The name of the conglomerate embodies what the founder takes pride in: Being a polymath and illuminating ambiguity through business and philanthropy ventures. Contact Details The ToT Foundation William Tillman William.tillman@totpartners.com

July 29, 2022 01:36 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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