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Op-Ed: Political criminality, January 6, RICO, and recognizing realities or bye-bye America
Fights over the country’s debt limit have become common in the US Congress – Copyright AFP Ben STANSALL
The first anniversary of January 6 2020 has brought up some very bad memories and a lot of angst about unsolved serious problems. The rapid decline of American democracy into a farcical patchwork of corrupt states and a politicized judiciary is making a truly hideous situation a lot worse.
Failure to recognize the driving forces is a major, potentially nationally fatal, issue. Read enough news, and you’d swear that Jan 6 and its obscene fallout was purely political, ideologically driven, and some sort of legitimate national dichotomy.
It’s nothing of the sort.
Ask yourself:
- Since when do a herd of barely literate social non-entities suddenly have such rabid feelings about things they can’t even spell, let alone understand?
- Where did all the sudden conveniently packaged targeted hate come from? Even the rhetoric is basically a macro, using exactly the same terminology and the same wrong capitalizations of words? All you need to do is insert names and the spam writes itself.
- Where did all the money come from to fund this gigantic garbage collection of fake anything and everything?
- Who’s paying for online hate? How many paid trolls does it take to look like a bona fide political campaign? To the extent that people who should know better think it’s legitimate?
- Why can’t America recognize standard old-style McCarthyism when it sees it? It’s not like you haven’t had enough experience, is it?
- Where’s the money coming from? Who’s paying for the Front Row Joes and anti-vaxxers to take time off to campaign for insanity?
If this is real politics, Mcdonald’s is a vegan global conspiracy. There’s no reality involved in any of it. Made up issues, solutions to problems that never existed, The Big Boring Endless Lie, it’s all there.
It’s all about money.
If there’s one thing every human being on Earth can agree with, it’s that politicians have far too much power. Most of the misery in this world is politically generated. If it wasn’t for whacko policies like inaccessible prices for health, housing, and education, the human race would be doing a lot better.
Policies cause misery. Ideologies simply justify policies. The economic policies, however, are always money-driven. The core issue is systemic political criminality, based on money. Getting access to money, preferably vast amounts of public money, isn’t exactly a new thing in politics.
In America the Super PACs pull in vast amounts of money. So do fundraisers. The sheer scale of money in US politics is almost unbelievable.
Where there’s money, there’s crime. Lots of it, and usually white-collar organized crime. These guys aren’t charities. They were involved in the sub-primes disaster in 2008 which practically wiped out the entire US middle class financially. They don’t steal jeans and on-sell them. They handle billions.
The US political system could well be the world’s biggest money laundry. (Although some political money might be more accurately described as dry-cleaned.) Where the money comes from, and where it goes, who knows? Someone obviously does. “So the country gets destroyed, so what? We’re making big money and have nice houses. We even get the occasional movie made about us. Whoopee.”
Here’s a rhetorical question and some equally rhetorical associations:
Are politicians immune to money?
- How about two-bit nobody lobbyists?
- Judges and other political sycophants?
- Chicken-faeces sourced organizations like ALEC?
- Folksy gerrymander and other anti-democracy political enablers?
- Damn near anyone or anything anywhere near this sort of money?
- What about quaint little multi-billion tax-free organizations?
(I have a Ph.D. in subtle innuendo, in case you haven’t already guessed.)
This is the best-funded insanity in history. It’s just as much systemic fraud as any sort of politics. It’s a type of racketeering. This is real RICO laws stuff, just in a political context. Bona fide money should have an audit trail going back to Adam’s birth certificate; this sort of money doesn’t. If the political money is sourced illegally, and it’s far more than likely a lot of it is, the entire racket is effectively criminal in nature.
You don’t even need to get out of bed to make money in this environment. You can be an adorable influential little maggot with a phone. That is quite literally all it takes.
How NOT to solve the problems 101
What strikes me as very strange is that people who are in a position to know a lot better aren’t making these connections. Everyone knows how intrinsically corrupt the US political system is.
So, to effectively solve none of the problems:
- Don’t ask where the money comes from.
- Make no attempt to find out where it comes from.
- Don’t question motives for lunatic policies, statements, or anything else.
- Put the interests of criminals above the interests of over 300 million people.
- Cram the Supreme Court with very malleable very small souls.
- Pretend to be a Christian and evangelize the money.
- Grovel convincingly and pretend to be a real commentator.
- Don’t even mention The Emperor’s New Toilet Paper.
Cute, huh? I don’t buy any of this crap at any price, discount, or otherwise. How can so many actual, hyper-stressed-for-decades bill-paying, bullet-dodging Americans pretend not to know all this? The criticism is way too superficial. The critics are routinely missing unmissable targets.
That’s your problem. Either solve it, or it will permanently solve you. Remember what Lincoln said about “some of the people”. Point being – They really are fools, rich, dumb, or otherwise.
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12 Proven Methods to Make Money Blogging in 2024
This is a contributed article.
The world of blogging continues to thrive in 2024, offering a compelling avenue for creative minds to share their knowledge, build an audience, and even turn their passion into profit. Whether you’re a seasoned blogger or just starting, there are numerous effective strategies to monetize your blog and achieve financial success. Here, we delve into 12 proven methods to make money blogging in 2024:
1. Embrace Niche Expertise:
Standing out in the vast blogosphere requires focus. Carving a niche allows you to cater to a specific audience with targeted content. This not only builds a loyal following but also positions you as an authority in your chosen field. Whether it’s gardening techniques, travel hacking tips, or the intricacies of cryptocurrency, delve deep into a subject you’re passionate and knowledgeable about. Targeted audiences are more receptive to monetization efforts, making them ideal for success.
2. Content is King (and Queen):
High-quality content remains the cornerstone of any successful blog. In 2024, readers crave informative, engaging, and well-written content that solves their problems, answers their questions, or entertains them. Invest time in crafting valuable blog posts, articles, or videos that resonate with your target audience.
- Focus on evergreen content: Create content that remains relevant for a long time, attracting consistent traffic and boosting your earning potential.
- Incorporate multimedia: Spice up your content with captivating images, infographics, or even videos to enhance reader engagement and improve SEO.
- Maintain consistency: Develop a regular publishing schedule to build anticipation and keep your audience coming back for more.
3. The Power of SEO:
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) ensures your blog ranks high in search engine results for relevant keywords. This increases organic traffic, the lifeblood of any monetization strategy.
- Keyword research: Use keyword research tools to identify terms your target audience searches for. Strategically incorporate these keywords into your content naturally.
- Technical SEO: Optimize your blog’s loading speed, mobile responsiveness, and overall technical aspects to improve search engine ranking.
- Backlink building: Encourage other websites to link back to your content, boosting your blog’s authority in the eyes of search engines.
4. Monetization Magic: Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing allows you to earn commissions by promoting other companies’ products or services. When a reader clicks on your affiliate link and makes a purchase, you get a commission.
- Choose relevant affiliates: Promote products or services that align with your niche and resonate with your audience.
- Transparency is key: Disclose your affiliate relationships clearly to your readers and build trust.
- Integrate strategically: Don’t just bombard readers with links. Weave affiliate promotions naturally into your content, highlighting the value proposition.
5. Display Advertising: A Classic Approach
Display advertising involves placing banner ads, text ads, or other visual elements on your blog. When a reader clicks on an ad, you earn revenue.
- Choose reputable ad networks: Partner with established ad networks that offer competitive rates and relevant ads for your audience.
- Strategic ad placement: Place ads thoughtfully, avoiding an overwhelming experience for readers.
- Track your performance: Monitor ad clicks and conversions to measure the effectiveness of your ad placements and optimize for better results.
6. Offer Premium Content:
Providing exclusive, in-depth content behind a paywall can generate additional income. This could be premium blog posts, ebooks, online courses, or webinars.
- Deliver exceptional value: Ensure your premium content offers significant value that justifies the price tag.
- Multiple pricing options: Consider offering tiered subscription plans to cater to different audience needs and budgets.
- Promote effectively: Highlight the benefits of your premium content and encourage readers to subscribe.
7. Coaching and Consulting:
Leverage your expertise by offering coaching or consulting services related to your niche. Readers who find your content valuable may be interested in personalized guidance.
- Position yourself as an expert: Showcase your qualifications, experience, and client testimonials to build trust and establish your credibility.
- Offer free consultations: Provide a limited free consultation to potential clients, allowing them to experience your expertise firsthand.
- Develop clear packages: Outline different coaching or consulting packages with varying time commitments and pricing structures.
8. The Power of Community: Online Events and Webinars
Host online events or webinars related to your niche. These events offer valuable content while also providing an opportunity to promote other monetization avenues.
- Interactive and engaging: Structure your online events to be interactive with polls, Q&A sessions, or live chats. Click here to learn more about image marketing with Q&A sessions and live chats.
9. Embrace the Power of Email Marketing:
Building an email list allows you to foster stronger relationships with your audience and promote your content and offerings directly.
- Offer valuable incentives: Encourage readers to subscribe by offering exclusive content, discounts, or early access to new products.
- Segmentation is key: Segment your email list based on reader interests to send targeted campaigns that resonate more effectively.
- Regular communication: Maintain consistent communication with your subscribers through engaging newsletters or updates.
10. Sell Your Own Products:
Take your expertise to the next level by creating and selling your own products. This could be physical merchandise, digital downloads, or even printables related to your niche.
- Identify audience needs: Develop products that address the specific needs and desires of your target audience.
- High-quality offerings: Invest in creating high-quality products that offer exceptional value and user experience.
- Utilize multiple platforms: Sell your products through your blog, online marketplaces, or even social media platforms.
11. Sponsorships and Brand Collaborations:
Partner with brands or businesses relevant to your niche for sponsored content or collaborations. This can be a lucrative way to leverage your audience and generate income.
- Maintain editorial control: While working with sponsors, ensure you retain editorial control to maintain your blog’s authenticity and audience trust.
- Disclosures are essential: Clearly disclose sponsored content to readers, upholding transparency and ethical practices.
- Align with your niche: Partner with brands that complement your content and resonate with your audience.
12. Freelancing and Paid Writing Opportunities:
Your blog can serve as a springboard for freelance writing opportunities. Showcase your writing skills and expertise through your blog content, attracting potential clients.
- Target relevant publications: Identify online publications, websites, or magazines related to your niche and pitch your writing services.
- High-quality samples: Include high-quality blog posts from your site as writing samples when pitching to potential clients.
- Develop strong writing skills: Continuously hone your writing skills and stay updated on current trends in your niche to deliver exceptional work.
Conclusion:
Building a successful blog that generates income requires dedication, strategic planning, and high-quality content. In today’s digital age, there are numerous opportunities to make money online through blogging. By utilizing a combination of methods such as affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and selling digital products or services, you can leverage your blog’s potential and achieve financial success.
Remember, consistency in posting, engaging with your audience, and staying adaptable to trends are key to thriving in the ever-evolving blogosphere. Embrace new strategies, refine your approaches, and always keep your readers at the forefront of your content creation journey. With dedication and the right approach, your blog has the potential to become a valuable source of income and a platform for sharing your knowledge and passion with the world, making money online while doing what you love.
Image Credit: DepositPhotos
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Snapchat Explores New Messaging Retention Feature: A Game-Changer or Risky Move?
In a recent announcement, Snapchat revealed a groundbreaking update that challenges its traditional design ethos. The platform is experimenting with an option that allows users to defy the 24-hour auto-delete rule, a feature synonymous with Snapchat’s ephemeral messaging model.
The proposed change aims to introduce a “Never delete” option in messaging retention settings, aligning Snapchat more closely with conventional messaging apps. While this move may blur Snapchat’s distinctive selling point, Snap appears convinced of its necessity.
According to Snap, the decision stems from user feedback and a commitment to innovation based on user needs. The company aims to provide greater flexibility and control over conversations, catering to the preferences of its community.
Currently undergoing trials in select markets, the new feature empowers users to adjust retention settings on a conversation-by-conversation basis. Flexibility remains paramount, with participants able to modify settings within chats and receive in-chat notifications to ensure transparency.
Snapchat underscores that the default auto-delete feature will persist, reinforcing its design philosophy centered on ephemerality. However, with the app gaining traction as a primary messaging platform, the option offers users a means to preserve longer chat histories.
The update marks a pivotal moment for Snapchat, renowned for its disappearing message premise, especially popular among younger demographics. Retaining this focus has been pivotal to Snapchat’s identity, but the shift suggests a broader strategy aimed at diversifying its user base.
This strategy may appeal particularly to older demographics, potentially extending Snapchat’s relevance as users age. By emulating features of conventional messaging platforms, Snapchat seeks to enhance its appeal and broaden its reach.
Yet, the introduction of message retention poses questions about Snapchat’s uniqueness. While addressing user demands, the risk of diluting Snapchat’s distinctiveness looms large.
As Snapchat ventures into uncharted territory, the outcome of this experiment remains uncertain. Will message retention propel Snapchat to new heights, or will it compromise the platform’s uniqueness?
Only time will tell.
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Catering to specific audience boosts your business, says accountant turned coach
While it is tempting to try to appeal to a broad audience, the founder of alcohol-free coaching service Just the Tonic, Sandra Parker, believes the best thing you can do for your business is focus on your niche. Here’s how she did just that.
When running a business, reaching out to as many clients as possible can be tempting. But it also risks making your marketing “too generic,” warns Sandra Parker, the founder of Just The Tonic Coaching.
“From the very start of my business, I knew exactly who I could help and who I couldn’t,” Parker told My Biggest Lessons.
Parker struggled with alcohol dependence as a young professional. Today, her business targets high-achieving individuals who face challenges similar to those she had early in her career.
“I understand their frustrations, I understand their fears, and I understand their coping mechanisms and the stories they’re telling themselves,” Parker said. “Because of that, I’m able to market very effectively, to speak in a language that they understand, and am able to reach them.”Â
“I believe that it’s really important that you know exactly who your customer or your client is, and you target them, and you resist the temptation to make your marketing too generic to try and reach everyone,” she explained.
“If you speak specifically to your target clients, you will reach them, and I believe that’s the way that you’re going to be more successful.
Watch the video for more of Sandra Parker’s biggest lessons.
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