The Chris Voss Show Podcast – Elie Y. Katz Talks NRS Innovations for Small Retail Success

Lost Man’s Lane: A Novel by Scott Carson https://amzn.to/3IP6pdq A teenager explores the darkness hidden within his hometown in this spellbinding supernatural thriller from bestselling author Scott Carson. For a sixteen-year-old, a summer internship working for a private investigator seems like a dream come true—particularly since the PI is investigating the most shocking crime to hit Bloomington, Indiana, in decades. A local woman has vanished, and the last time anyone saw her, she was in the backseat of a police car driven by a man impersonating an officer. Marshall Miller’s internship puts him at the center of the action, a position he relishes until a terrifying moment that turns public praise for his sharp observations and uncanny memory into accusations of lying and imperiling the case. His detective mentor withdraws, friends and family worry and whisper, and Marshall alone understands that the darkness visiting his town this summer goes far beyond a single crime. Now his task is to explain it—and himself. Lost Man’s Lane is a coming-of-age tale of terror that proves why its author has been hailed as “a master” by Stephen King and one who consistently offers “eerie, gripping storytelling” by Dean Koontz. About the author Scott Carson is the pen name of Michael Koryta, a New York Times bestselling author whose work has been translated into more than twenty languages, adapted into major motion pictures, and won the Los Angeles Times Book Prize. A former private investigator and reporter, his writing has been praised by Stephen King, Michael Connelly, and Dean Koontz, among many others. Raised in Bloomington, Indiana, he now lives in Indiana and Maine.

21 Mars 202423min

Behind the Startup: How Venture Capital Shapes Work, Innovation, and Inequality by Benjamin Shestakofsky https://amzn.to/49QFVUB This systematic analysis of everyday life inside a tech startup dissects the logic of venture capital and its consequences for entrepreneurs, workers, and societies. In recent years, dreams about our technological future have soured as digital platforms have undermined privacy, eroded labor rights, and weakened democratic discourse. In light of the negative consequences of innovation, some blame harmful algorithms or greedy CEOs. Behind the Startup focuses instead on the role of capital and the influence of financiers. Drawing on nineteen months of participant-observation research inside a successful Silicon Valley startup, this book examines how the company was organized to meet the needs of the venture capital investors who funded it. Investors push startups to scale as quickly as possible to inflate the value of their asset. Benjamin Shestakofsky shows how these demands create organizational problems that managers solve by combining high-tech systems with low-wage human labor. With its focus on the financialization of innovation, Behind the Startup explains how the gains generated by these companies are funneled into the pockets of a small cadre of elite investors and entrepreneurs. To promote innovation that benefits the many rather than the few, Shestakofsky compellingly argues that we must focus less on fixing the technology and more on changing the financial infrastructure that supports it. About the author Benjamin Shestakofsky is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at the University of Pennsylvania, where he is affiliated with AI at Wharton and the Center on Digital Culture and Society. His research focuses on the relationship between work, technology, organizations, and political economy in the age of AI. He received his PhD in Sociology from the University of California, Berkeley.

20 Mars 202425min

Lessons Learned: From the Short Stories of My Life by Laurie Koss https://amzn.to/4ajQbog Everyone has a story. Laurie Koss has five hundred and fifteen. In her page-turning debut book, the award-winning Canadian artist has crafted a memoir like no other. Each page of Lessons Learned is a single story concluding with a thought-provoking quote. Perfect for today’s busy lifestyle, Lessons Learned is unique because the reader can choose to enjoy the stories chronologically like a novel, flip to a random page to uncover which lesson they chance upon, or read one-story-per-day for a daily dose of inspiration. The quotes that complete each story originate from diverse literary, cultural, and historical sources. They make Lessons Learned a one-of-a-kind experience as the reader is encouraged to take a moment at the end of each page to ponder the lesson or have a laugh. Koss’ childhood stories begin in 1960’s Vancouver, B.C., with topics spanning from her budding interest in art to her keen intuition and family ghost stories to the tumultuous family dynamics created by a loving but alcoholic parent. With each story—and each life lesson learned—readers witness the coming-of-age and self-discovery of a young artist determined to create the life she dreams of living. But life rarely goes as smoothly as we plan. Following the dips and successes of her romantic life, family, and career, Koss also illustrates the unexpected heartache of a life-altering illness and ongoing struggles with friendships—and the spiritual growth that can arise when we’re open to learning from these experiences. Offering a blend of introspection, vulnerability, and creativity, Koss brings to life universal experiences that connect us all, interspersed by unique and often hilarious “Only Me” moments. Koss’ storytelling takes the reader on an unforgettable journey from 1960s hippies to the 2020 pandemic. Her tales are a time portal to various eras and a reminder that we, too, have stories and history worth sharing. Story by story, quote by quote, Laurie Koss entertains with self-effacing humour, compassion, and insight, proving there is a lesson to be learned in every moment life offers. Lessons Learned is a collection of short stories to treasure, savour, and share with loved ones. It is sure to become a must-read for those seeking a refreshing, laugh-out-loud, heartfelt, and entertaining book. What You’ll Discover Inside: 515 One-Page Short Stories Family and Friendship Popular Culture The Unexplainable Married Life & Parenting Overcoming Challenges Achieving Goals Trusting Intuition Finding Meaning in Life Over 500 thought-provoking quotes About the author Laurie Koss is an award-winning contemporary Canadian artist best known for her close-up floral paintings. Her work adorns two national commissions: Canada Post’s 2015 Flower Series stamps and a 2015 Royal Canadian Mint twenty-dollar collector’s coin. She is a Senior member of the Federation of Canadian Artists and enjoys her role jurying art and mentoring emerging artists. Born and raised in Vancouver—where she studied Fine Arts and English at the University of British Columbia—Laurie now lives in Kelowna with her husband. When she’s not painting or writing, (or stumbling into “only me” moments), she enjoys spending time with family and friends, hiking, teaching/practicing yoga, travelling, tending her vegetable garden, and pursuing a path of self-improvement. Lessons Learned is her first book.

19 Mars 202433min

When I’m Her by Sarah Zachrich Jeng https://amzn.to/4a8Ahgw How far would you go to get even with the woman who ruined your life? In this electrifying thriller, a young woman gets everything she’s ever wanted—and everything she doesn’t—when she swaps bodies with her sworn enemy. Though polar opposites, Mary and Elizabeth are as close as can be—until the night Elizabeth makes an irrevocable mistake and leaves Mary to take the blame. Years later, Elizabeth seems to have forgotten Mary exists. Mary hasn’t forgotten her. She follows Elizabeth’s every move online, obsessed with paying her back for the betrayal that cost Mary her dreams. Now Mary has found a way to switch bodies with Elizabeth, and she’s got a plan to steal her charmed life. Her career. Her looks. Her husband. They do say living well is the best revenge. Or is it? The more Mary uncovers about Elizabeth’s life, the more she realizes she may have made a deadly mistake. And she’ll need the help of her worst enemy to stay alive. About the author Sarah Zachrich Jeng grew up in Michigan and always had a flair for the morbid and mysterious (for her dad’s thirty-fifth birthday, she wrote a story entitled “The Man Who Died at 35”). She had a brief career as an aspiring rock star before she came to her senses and went back to school to become a web developer. Sarah lives in Florida with her family and an extremely hyper rescue dog. THE OTHER ME is her first novel.

17 Mars 202415min

Never Leave the Dogs Behind: A Memoir by Brianna Madia https://amzn.to/4ajafHp The author of the New York Times bestseller Nowhere for Very Long continues her story with this deeply honest, moving account of a woman walking the line between independence and isolation when she moves to the Southwest desert with nothing and no one but her four dogs. In her debut memoir, Nowhere for Very Long, Brianna Madia reflected on her life as a nomad, free to roam some of the most beautiful land in America. Now, in Never Leave the Dogs Behind, the van life adherent faces the unfathomable darkness that comes from a life blown apart, her only solace the support of her dogs. In the wake of a painful, public divorce and the ensuing fallout, Brianna moves from a pared-down van into a pared-down trailer. She reckons with her decision to be alone in the desert, living on a nine-acre plot of undeveloped land on the dusty outskirts of a small town in Utah, accompanied only by her four precious dogs: Bucket, Dagwood, Birdie, and Banjo. As she grapples with the anger, despair, and delicious freedom that comes from being wholly on her own, Brianna wonders where, exactly, the road less traveled has led her. A powerful and poignant portrait of rebuilding and surviving, Never Leave the Dogs Behind is about finding the courage to start over when the dream life you thought you were living collapses around your feet. About the author Brianna Madia has lived a life of relentless intention, traveling the deserts of the American Southwest in an old Ford van. She made a name for herself on social media with her inspiring captions-cum-essays about bravery, identity, nature, and subverting expectations. She lives in Utah with her four dogs. Nowhere for Very Long is her first book.

16 Mars 202436min

No Grail Without Dragons: A Man’s Unconventional Path to Love, Purpose, and Peace by Victor J. Giusfredi Victorgiusfredi.com https://amzn.to/49SL3aR In “No Grail Without Dragons,” embark on an extraordinary journey through the tumultuous life of Victor J. Giusfredi as he unveils the soul-stirring tale of love, personal growth, and the pursuit of inner peace. This memoir transcends storytelling, offering an intimate look into a man’s courageous quest for self-discovery, where the dragons are not mythical creatures, but the very fears, insecurities, and challenges that have haunted him throughout his existence. A Journey of Resilience Venture alongside Giusfredi as he crisscrosses the globe, narrating a remarkable story of resilience. With seven businesses launched, two innovative inventions, over 35 homes inhabited, two devastating divorces, and 40 jobs tackled, his narrative resonates with the chaos, pain, and triumphs of a life fully lived. Each experience serves as a piece in the intricate puzzle of finding success in romantic relationships and personal fulfillment. Raw Honesty, Vivid Prose Giusfredi bares his soul with unfiltered candor and vivid storytelling. His confessional tone and narrative flair transport readers to the core of his existence. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions, from his struggles with divorce, layoffs, immigration, abuse, domestic violence, to bankruptcy, and ultimately, his transcendence to a state of inner peace and self-understanding. Powerful metaphors and evocative storytelling paint a vivid picture of a man determined to confront his internal demons for the sake of his own — and loved ones — happiness. A Guide to Transformation What sets this memoir apart is Giusfredi’s fearless vulnerability and his desire to illuminate the path for others. His introspective reflections, coupled with his analytical and pragmatic approach to personal growth, create a tapestry that interweaves thoughtfulness and empathy into a life-altering guide. A Testament to Human Strength “No Grail Without Dragons” stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, a guiding light for those in search of meaning, and a manual for discovering one’s true self. The title encapsulates the book’s core message: true love, purpose, and peace are attainable, but only after facing the fears and challenges that reside within. This memoir reminds us that no reward is granted without confronting our deepest fears, and genuine fulfillment can only be attained by conquering the dragons that lurk within us all. About the author Victor, a certified life coach and neurolinguistic programming coach, brings a wealth of experience to his coaching practice. With a background that spans launching seven businesses, deploying 3 inventions, living and working across the world, Victor’s journey from humble beginnings to successful entrepreneur and coach fuels his passion for helping others tap into the power of mindset to overcome life’s toughest challenges. Driven by personal experiences including two marriages, two divorces, and raising two children as a single parent, Victor found purpose in coaching to guide others through their darkest moments. Specializing in mindset strategies, relationships, and fear resilience, Victor’s approach combines narrative storytelling with direct coaching techniques honed through real-life trials, continuous education and practice. As a published author of ‘No Grail Without Dragons: A Man’s Unconventional Path to Love, Purpose, and Peace,’ Victor shares his personal trials and tribulations to inspire readers to transform their lives. Featured in podcasts, articles and other media, Victor’s expertise and authenticity make him a trusted guide on the journey to personal growth and fulfillment. Through his blog, social media platforms, and upcoming book on successful relationships and mindset strategies, Victor’s message is clear: suffering is optional, and true transformation is achievable through mastering the art of thinking by leveraging the power of mindset strategies.

15 Mars 202424min

Cape Rage (A Danny Barrett Novel) by Ron Corbett https://amzn.to/4aev8DE Danny Barrett is caught between a family of criminals and the psychopath who is tracking them in the latest novel of the series the New York Times calls, “Dynamite.” The FBI has a hundred undercover agents who can work in the city, but Danny Barrett is the one they call when they need someone to investigate crimes in the wilderness. This case is a particularly difficult one. For more than a century the Danby family have ruled as kings in their corner of the Pacific Northwest. The Feds were mostly willing to look the other way while the family smuggled everything from liquor to cigarettes across the border, but lately things have taken a darker turn. A recent bank robbery in Seattle looks like it may have been committed by the Danbys, but there’s no way the FBI can get any locals to turn against them. Only Danny Barrett has what it takes to get inside the organization and shut them down. But before Danny can do that he’s going to have to contend with Henry Carter, a former in-law and current psychopath. The Danbys thought they left Henry for dead in the deepest part of the woods, but he’s coming back. He’ll go to hell to get his revenge, and he’s willing to take the whole family with him. About the author Ron Corbett is the Edgar and Arthur Ellis nominated author of the Frank Yakabuski Mystery Series. Set on the Northern Divide, the Yakabuski series has been called “Truly captivating” (Publishers Weekly) “Soulful” (Kirkus Reviews) and “A series with a long life ahead.” (Globe and Mail). Ron is also the author of the Danny Barrett series of thrillers called “A dynamite new series” (New York Times) and “nuanced…and vivid” (Publisher’s Weekly). A former radio host and newspaper columnist, the father of four is married to award-winning photo-journalist Julie Oliver and still lives in his hometown of Ottawa, Canada, where he writes from the study of a century-old house, “not far from a good river.”

14 Mars 202429min

The Love Ball Game: Embracing Yourself and Embodying Your Soul by Jacia Kornwise Jaciakornwise.com https://amzn.to/4a5dfaJ In “The LoveBall Game – Embracing Yourself and Embodying Your Soul” authored by Jacia Kornwise, embark on a profound journey of self-discovery, embodiment, and self-love. With Jacia’s wealth of wisdom and personal insights, this transformational guide offers a heartfelt exploration of the human experience, delving into the intricacies of personal growth, resilience, intuition and embodiment. She leads the way, encouraging readers to embrace their unique life stories and cultivate self-love. Drawing from her own experiences as a multiple trauma survivor, Jacia’s empathetic guidance resonates deeply. She helps you to navigate the complexities of personal growth offering insights and wisdom on how to reconnect with yourself and learn how to re-embody your intuition and instincts. She introduces you to a metaphorical game of love and life for transforming stuck points into embodied resourcefulness. This book serves as a powerful guide and testimony to finding a true romance with love and life and to fully embody the resilience of your soul’s journey. Jacia Kornwise is a Master Embodied Soul Coach, Transformational Experience Facilitator, and TEDxSpeaker, with an impressive 31-year career dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and groups transform their stuck points into resilience and embodied resourcefulness. She has also taught at festivals as well as led retreats and corporate events with her skillsets. As a multiple trauma and grief survivor, Jacia has inspired her students, clients, friends, and loved ones for decades and she has now decided to share some potent moments about her personal journey with “The LoveBall Game” in combination with some helpful concepts and exercises for anyone to begin to deepen their own embodied listening. Jacia received her Bachelor’s in English Lit and a teaching certification from the University of Michigan, her Master’s Degree in Integral Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies and her Master’s Shadow Coaching degree with the late Debbie Ford. She is a trained and certified 5 Rhythms Movement teacher by Gabrielle Roth and the Moving Center School. She studied and trained in a variety of somatic, breath, and mindfulness-based tools.. She’s a Mom to her beloved son Devon and a dog Mom to her puppy Yoda. About the author Jacia Kornwise is a Master Embodied Soul Coach, Transformational Experience Facilitator, and inspirational and TEDx speaker. She is the author of “The Love Ball Game – Embracing Yourself and Embodying Your Soul.” She has an impressive 31-year career dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and groups transform their stuck points into resilience and embodied resourcefulness. She has led retreats, workshops, corporate and private events, and festivals, sharing her tools to embody healing. As a multiple trauma survivor and grief survivor, she shares herself from the heart, leading the way. Jacia received her BA in English Literature from the University of Michigan and a teaching certification. She is an Executive Contributor at Brainz Magazine. She received her Masters in Integral Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies and her Masters Shadow Coaching degree from the late Debbie Ford. She is a trained and certified 5 Rhythms Dance teacher by Gabrielle Roth and The Moving Center. She studied and trained in various breath-work, somatic, and mindfulness-based teachings. She runs the Satori Healing Center in Chico, California and is a Mom to her teenage son and puppy.

13 Mars 202429min