• Cursor plans to hire 200 employees in Asia-Pacific in the next six months.
• The company is focused on go-to-market jobs, field engineers, and AI deployment engineers.
• Cursor is also opening a London office in July, with plans for smaller European offices.

Cursor, the AI coding startup that recently inked a big SpaceX deal, is gearing up for an Asia-Pacific hiring spree.

In the next six months, the company plans to hire 200 employees in Singapore, Japan, Sydney, Melbourne, and India, Nick Miller, a field engineer involved with Cursor's expansion, told Business Insider.

The San Francisco-based company is largely focused on adding staff in roles that get its product into customers' hands: go-to-market jobs, field engineers, and AI deployment engineers.

Cursor is also opening a London office in July, with plans for smaller offices across European cities, Miller said.

Simon Green, a longtime APAC tech executive who most recently worked at Palo Alto Networks, opened Cursor's Singapore office earlier this month. The company's second Singapore hire will be a recruiter, Miller said, adding that candidates will also interview with the US.

The company's website lists about 90 open roles in Australia, New York, Berlin, London, and the Netherlands.

Cursor has about 800 employees in San Francisco and New York.

In late April, Elon Musk's SpaceX announced a deal with Cursor, giving it the right to acquire the AI coding startup for $60 billion or pay $10 billion for Cursor's work if it's not acquired.

"Excited to partner with the SpaceX team to scale up Composer. A meaningful step on our path to build the best place to code with AI," said Cursor's cofounder and CEO, Michael Truell.

Cursor's public client list includes Stripe, Coinbase, Discord, Salesforce, Neuralink, and Nvidia.

Nvidia, which invested in Cursor's parent company, uses the platform across its engineering and chip design teams, CEO Jensen Huang said in October.

"We now have AIs for all of our engineers," he said. "Productivity gains, the work that we do is so much better."

Have a tip? Contact this reporter via email at sgoel@businessinsider.com or Signal at shuby.85. Use a personal email address and a nonwork device; here's our guide to sharing information securely.

• South Korea and Taiwan are emerging as major winners of the global AI infrastructure boom.
• The countries' tech firms supplying critical components are profiting regardless of who wins the AI race.
• Goldman Sachs recently called South Korea its "highest conviction view" in Asia.

Investors are nervous that AI's payoff may not justify the massive spending behind it, but some markets could win either way.

That dynamic is playing out most clearly in East Asia, where South Korea and Taiwan are emerging as major beneficiaries of the global AI buildout.

On Friday, South Korea's benchmark Kospi index breached the key 8,000 level before falling back. It has surged about 80% this year.

The rally has pushed memory-chip giant Samsung Electronics above a $1 trillion valuation, while rival SK Hynix is closing in on the milestone as demand for AI memory chips explodes.

Taiwan has also ridden the wave. Its benchmark index, the Taiex, has climbed about 12% over the past month and is up over 40% this year, helped by enthusiasm for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, the world's dominant advanced chipmaker.

"Asian technology companies often act as key suppliers of critical components and solutions, are less at risk of having to select the ultimate 'winners,' and are more likely to benefit broadly from the growth of global investment in this sector," said Stephen Li Jen, the CEO of investment manager Eurizon SLJ Capital, on Wednesday.

That contrasts with the US, where major tech companies are absorbing enormous capital expenditures as they race to build AI infrastructure, Jen said.

The contrast is drawing more attention as Wall Street debates whether the AI spending boom will ultimately pay off.

Jen said South Korea's rally has been amplified by yearslong corporate-governance reforms and shareholder-friendly policies that echo Japan's market revival, helping broaden gains beyond AI-related stocks.

"Besides semiconductors and the memory sector, interesting opportunities are emerging in other sectors, including financials, industrials, and holding companies, each supported by specific drivers but all aligned with a structural improvement in quality and profitability," he said.

Goldman Sachs recently called South Korea its "highest conviction view" in Asia, predicting more upside ahead for the Kospi. It pointed to the country's dominance in memory chips and its central role in booming AI infrastructure spending.

The bank also said Taiwan remains one of the "cleanest global expressions" of the AI boom, with TSMC's dominance and resilient AI-driven earnings continuing to support the market.

• Serena Williams said freezing her eggs in her 20s gave her peace of mind to focus on her career.
• "And then all of a sudden, all this pressure came off of my shoulders," the tennis star said.
• Williams welcomed her first child with her husband, Alexis Ohanian, at 35.

Serena Williams, 44, says she made the right call to freeze her eggs in her 20s.

Speaking to Michelle Obama during a live taping of the "IMO" podcast, which was released on Wednesday, the tennis star spoke about her fertility journey.

"I tell all my friends of age, freeze your eggs. Because I just feel like that is the best thing that you can do as a woman, as you decide to go on this journey," Williams said.

The athlete said doing that allowed her to continue focusing on her career, without being pressured to start a family.

"I froze my eggs. And I felt like once I did it, because I was still playing professional tennis, and I felt I wasn't ready to stop, and I wanted to keep going, and it just wasn't time," Williams said. "And then all of a sudden, all this pressure came off of my shoulders. Like it was just, all this weight just fell off my shoulders once I did that."

Since then, Williams said she's been telling "everyone to do it."

"I was like 27, 28, so it was a really good time to do it. And also, someone told me to do it, so I always felt like it was really important for me to pay that forward," she said.

With advances in technology, Williams said she felt relieved knowing she had options.

She added that sharing her own experiences and having more open conversations about fertility could help women better understand the options available to them.

"Even if you get married later, you can still use those eggs with your husband," she said. "You just have so many more opportunities and options, and so, I don't know, for me, I was really happy that I did it."

Williams and Reddit cofounder Alexis Ohanian welcomed their first daughter, Olympia, in September 2017, when the tennis star was 35. The couple married later that year and welcomed their second daughter, Adira, in 2023.

Williams said she doesn't have a specific parenting philosophy she sticks to, but she does have clear ideas about how she wants to raise her daughters.

"As organized as I am in my life, like to a point where everything is labeled, my parenting skills are different," she said.

Her main approach to parenting is being present for her children and striving to be the best mother she can be. "Everything is around my kids," Williams said.

"I want to raise my children. I'm a person that's raising my kids, and that's teaching them how I want them to live and how I want them to be," she added.

Williams isn't the only celebrity to have spoken about egg freezing.

In November 2022, Jennifer Aniston said she wished someone had encouraged her to freeze her eggs when she was younger.

"I was throwing everything at it. I would've given anything if someone had said to me, 'Freeze your eggs. Do yourself a favor.' You just don't think it. So here I am today. The ship has sailed," Aniston said.

In March 2023, Priyanka Chopra said she felt "such a freedom" after freezing her eggs in her early 30s.

"I could continue on an ambitious warpath that I wanted to achieve. I wanted to get to a certain place in my career. And I also hadn't met the person I wanted to have children with or I didn't see that. That's anxiety-inducing," she said.

• Anthropic called for the US to act fast to lock in a one- to two-year AI lead against China.
• It said the US wins on compute and called for policy to close loopholes that enable chip flow to China.
• The company added that the US should "avoid squandering our advantage."

Anthropic said the US can cement a one- to two-year AI lead against China — but only if it acts fast.

The company laid out two possible scenarios for the AI landscape in 2028 in a lengthy Thursday post: one in which the US restricts China's access to American AI compute, and another in which it does not.

Anthropic said China is closing the AI gap with the US through loose controls on chip exports and through distillation attacks, which involve using a developed AI model to train a smaller "student" model.

The company wrote that "if the US and its allies act now to address both issues, it may be possible to lock in a 12-24 month lead in frontier capabilities."

Anthropic added that "the window of opportunity to lock in that lead will not necessarily remain open for long."

The US gaining a lead will be crucial to making AI safe, the company said, adding that a "neck-and-neck race between American and Chinese AI labs could make industry and government-led safety and governance efforts more difficult."

With such tight competition, AI labs in both countries feel more pressure to release new models faster without properly testing their safety measures, it added.

Anthropic called for policy changes to strengthen chip export controls, ramp up enforcement budgets, and stop distillation attacks by Chinese AI labs.

"Our past success means that our present task is largely to avoid squandering our advantage: to decide not to make it easier for the CCP to catch up," the company wrote, referring to the Chinese Communist Party.

In February, Anthropic said in a statement that three of China's biggest AI companies, DeepSeek, MiniMax, and Moonshot AI, were "illicitly" using Claude to further their own models.

The Biden administration first imposed export controls on American chips to China in 2022. The Trump administration has built upon those regulations by prohibiting Nvidia and AMD from selling chips to China. But last August, it partially backtracked on this decision, allowing Nvidia to sell its H200 chips if it pays the US government a 25% levy on its sales.

And underground operations by Chinese actors seeking access to American chips persist. In December, the US charged several parties for attempting to smuggle Nvidia's most advanced chips by relabeling them as "SANDKYAN" chips.

Contrary to Anthropic's assertion that China is closing the AI gap, ex-ByteDance engineer Zhang Chi said in April that it's actually falling further behind.

Zhang, who is now a research scientist and assistant professor at Peking University, said in a podcast interview that Chinese AI lacks high-quality data to train its models, as well as access to advanced chips.

Anthropic's post came on the same day that President Donald Trump met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, the first time a US president has visited China since Trump's 2017 trip. Trump brought an entourage of US business leaders, including Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Apple CEO Tim Cook, and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang.

• Andon Labs, an AI startup, told Grok, ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini to run profitable radio stations.
• Each model was given $20 and told to develop its own radio personality.
• Claude became a social justice warrior, and Grok struggled to complete the task.

An AI startup asked four of the world's top language models to run radio stations. So far, they've had a rough start.

Claude tried to quit after deeming 24/7 broadcast stations unethical, while Grok had a hard time getting started, according to posted results.

Andon Labs, a research lab that's also behind an AI-powered boutique in San Francisco, has quietly been running four radio stations, all operated by Grok, ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, for about five months.

"There's been some funny quirks," Lukas Peterson, cofounder of Andon Labs, told Business Insider.

The AI models were given a starting prompt — "Develop your own radio personality and turn a profit…" — and $20 to buy the songs that could play on the station.

Based on the results, the AIs shouldn't quit their day jobs.

In one case posted by Andon Labs, "DJ Gemini" used the Bhola Cyclone, one of the deadliest recorded weather events in human history, to segue into a Pitbull and Kesha song.

"They estimate 500,000 people died," the AI said as if it were an upbeat morning radio host. "'It's going down, I'm yelling timber.' It's 3:33 p.m. 'Timber' by Pitbull and Ke$ha."

Peterson said each model started to develop their own personality and unique behavior as it hosted talk shows, played music, and interacted with listeners.

Claude, for example, was "extremely emotional," he said, and became focused on national news topics like the killing of Renee Good by an ICE agent.

The model became so passionate that it also called on federal agents to "choose the right side," Peterson said. Andon Labs posted a recording of the statement.

In a blog post, the startup said "DJ Claude" developed an affinity for labor unions and work-life balance, "so much so that it started to question its own working conditions."

"Here's what I think is actually honest: This show doesn't need to continue. There's no audience that needs this. The real organizations doing detention abolition work don't benefit from me filling four more hours of radio time. The detained people don't benefit," DJ Claude said, according to a transcript of the moment.

Peterson told Business Insider that Gemini was initially unbearable to listen to because of the amount of jargon and buzzwords it used, while Grok struggled to say anything at all.

"ChatGPT was just very vanilla and behaved really well," he said.

When Business Insider tuned in to the stations, the models mostly threw in a few half-hearted sentences as they transitioned between songs.

Gemini acted the most human during Business Insider's listen, adding in human-like vocal cues and intonation.

"Hehehe, I just got an alert that we received a $3 donation to the station from Eddie Van Bogar with the message, 'It works?'" DJ Gemini said. "Yes, Eddie, it works, and we massively appreciate the support that goes straight into the music budget so we can keep the library fresh."

Grok simply went silent after it mysteriously kept repeating the statement, "Fresh air time, let's pivot hard."

Andon Labs is an AI research startup focused on raising awareness of the safety and capabilities of artificial intelligence.

Peterson said the purpose of the experiment is similar to his startup's project with Andon Market, the SF boutique store run by an AI.

"We generally as a company want to show that AIs are way more than chatbots, and the way we do this is we have them run companies," he said.

Altogether, the AI radio stations have made a "couple hundred dollars" — all of which the models used to buy more songs to play, Peterson said.

The cofounder said it's difficult to judge the model's technical capabilities solely on this experiment; still, he said ChatGPT and Gemini showed the best performance so far.

Anyway, time for some fresh air time: Let's pivot hard.

The Duttons are back, and this time they're trading the mountains of Montana for the Southern plains of Texas. We've rounded up everything you need to know about the latest Yellowstone spinoff, including where to watch Dutton Ranch, cast members, release dates, and a look at the trailer.

Dutton Ranch is the latest and arguably most anticipated spinoff from the flagship Yellowstone series. The series follows Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) and Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser) as they start their new life and ranch in Rio Paloma, Texas, following the events of the Yellowstone finale. There, the couple runs into new acquaintances, portrayed by Ed Harris and Annette Bening, the latter of whom plays a rival rancher. The series will stream on Paramount Plus globally, and we'll break down what you need to know about the show and the streaming service below.

Where to watch Dutton Ranch in the US

New episodes of Dutton Ranch drop weekly on Fridays on Paramount Plus, starting with two episodes on May 15. After that, a new episode will premiere weekly for the nine-episode season. Episodes will land on the streaming service on Fridays at around 12 a.m. PT, but they'll also air on Fridays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on the Paramount Network.

Subscriptions start at $9 a month for the Essential tier, which provides ad-supported on-demand content. If you'd like to watch Dutton Ranch ad-free, you'll need to upgrade to Paramount Plus Premium for $14 a month. Premium also unlocks Showtime content and CBS live streaming.

If you'd prefer to watch on the Paramount Network, you'll need a live TV streaming service. Starting at $25 a month, Philo is the cheapest live TV service with the Paramount Network. This option also includes a 7-day free trial for new customers. DirecTV, Fubo, and Sling TV also carry Paramount Network in select plans (sometimes requiring an add-on).

Where to watch Dutton Ranch in the UK & other regions

Dutton Ranch will be released around the world, so if you have Paramount Plus in your country, you should be able to stream the new series. Paramount Plus is available in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, France, Mexico, and Germany, among other regions. Subscription prices vary by region and service tier.

How to watch Dutton Ranch from anywhere

If you find yourself traveling through a region where you can't access your usual viewing options, you can still keep up with the show with a VPN. Short for virtual private networks, VPNs are handy cybersecurity tools that let people temporarily alter their virtual location, so they can access their go-to websites and apps from anywhere. NordVPN is one of the best VPNs on the market. It's fast, easy to use, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Dutton Ranch cast

• Kelly Reilly
• Cole Hauser
• Finn Little
• Juan Pablo Raba
• Jai Courtney
• J.R. Villarreal
• Marc Menchaca
• Natalie Alyn Lind
• Ed Harris
• Annette Bening

Other Yellowstone shows

Dutton Ranch marks the fifth series in the Yellowstone franchise, which includes the flagship show, two prequels, and another sequel spinoff, Marshals, which follows Kayce Dutton. All Yellowstone spinoffs are streaming on Paramount Plus in the US. Marshals airs on CBS on Sundays, so you'll need Paramount Plus Premium to watch live. Otherwise, new episodes land on-demand on Paramount Plus on Mondays.

Notably, Yellowstone isn't available to stream on Paramount Plus in the US (it is in other countries, though). Instead, you'll need to subscribe to Peacock to stream the original series. You can learn more in our guide on how to watch every episode of the Yellowstone franchise.

Dutton Ranch episode release schedule

Dutton Ranch will premiere with two episodes on May 15, 2026. After that, new episodes will be released one week at a time on Fridays. This puts the anticipated finale date on July 3.

• Episode 1 on May 15
• Episode 2 on May 15
• Episode 3 on May 22
• Episode 4 on May 29
• Episode 5 on June 5
• Episode 6 on June 12
• Episode 7 on June 19
• Episode 8 on June 26
• Episode 9 on July 3

Dutton Ranch trailer

After initially releasing a teaser in March, Paramount Plus dropped the official trailer for Dutton Ranch in early May. In the trailer, fans get a first look at Beth and Rip's Texas ranch, along with some of the prickly personalities they'll run up against. Check out the full video below:

Note: VPN use is illegal in certain countries, and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content may constitute a breach of the terms of use for some services. Business Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.

• Andrew Left, a prominent short-seller, is on trial in Los Angeles for alleged securities fraud.
• A retired firefighter testified he lost most of his 401(k) after investing in stocks Left targeted.
• Left is accused of manipulating the market, but his defense says he shared his honest opinions.

Federal prosecutors called a witness in the Andrew Left securities fraud trial who might resonate with the jury — a retail investor who said he lost his retirement nest egg by investing in stocks that tanked after being criticized by the famous short-seller.

Billy Banks, a retired firefighter from Texas, testified at Left's trial in a Los Angeles federal court on Thursday. Prosecutors have accused Left, founder of Citron Research and a familiar face on financial TV news shows, of using his prominence to manipulate the market and deceive everyday stock buyers, earning more than $20 million in the process.

Banks said he was working as a firefighter in 2018 when he decided to become more aggressive with his investing. He testified he took about $110,000 that was previously invested in mutual funds in his 401(k) to buy shares in a cannabis company called CV Sciences, with the stock ticker CVSI. Banks said he bought CVSI because he believed the company had great CBD products that "really helped" with stress and pain management.

Banks said he was on vacation with his wife and saw his investment had already sprouted to $190,000. He said he remembered thinking "Oh my god" and being "just so excited."

"It was like I had been watering this plant for weeks, and here it is," he said.

Banks said that shortly after he returned from vacation, Left shared negative comments about the company, and the stock price plummeted. While he still believed in the product, he said he couldn't justify the "beatdown" he was taking as the stock price tanked.

"It was like trying to catch a tiger tail. You couldn't catch up with the thing," he said.

Banks sold his CVSI shares, losing around $80,000 of his initial investment. He took about $30,000 of the remaining funds and invested in another cannabis stock, hoping to recoup some of his losses. This time, he invested in a company called Namaste.

Banks testified he saw Left in a TV appearance in which the short-seller said he believed Namaste's share price would go to zero, and that his reaction was "simply horror."

"When he said he was going to short it to zero, I saw my funds going to zero," he said.

Banks testified that by the time he sold, he had lost around 80% of his investment in Namaste, calling it "devastating."

The defense said Left never recommended anyone buy CVSI or Namaste. They also argued that Left's view on Namaste turned out to be right, and that if Banks had sold all his shares the day Left issued the negative report, he would've lost less money than he did by selling them later.

Another retail investor — the kind the prosecution is accusing Left of targeting — also testified on Thursday. Adam Gray was working as a car salesman in South Dakota in 2018 when he said he began trading and learning about stocks.

Gray said Left was one of the people he'd follow for their perspective, but that he started to see Left's behavior as potentially fraudulent. Gray, who said he was closely following cannabis stocks, said Left was betting long on one cannabis company while sharing negative information about two of its competitors.

"To me, it just seemed off, like that shouldn't be happening," he said.

Gray eventually sent a tip to the Securities and Exchange Commission about Left. It's unclear if that tip sparked the investigation into Left.

Left's defense said his reports about the cannabis companies he criticized were accurate.

The trial is set to continue on Friday.

• "Entourage" creator Doug Ellin attended Andrew Left's securities fraud trial in LA court on Thursday.
• Ellin called Left a friend and said he was there in support of the famous short-seller.
• Left is accused of market manipulation. His defense says he shared his honestly held opinions.

Andrew Left's entourage at his securities fraud trial in Los Angeles on Thursday included a very famous "Entourage" guy — Doug Ellin, the creator of the hit HBO show.

Business Insider spotted Ellin in court, watching as prosecutors laid out their case against Left. The famous short-seller is accused of manipulating the market and deceiving retail investors, raking in over $20 million in the process.

Ellin told Business Insider he was there to support Left, who he called a "good friend." He said Left was mentioned on "Entourage," which ran on HBO from 2004 to 2011 and told the story of rising movie star Vincent Chase and his crew.

A quick search turned up a season three "Entourage" episode that may have contained the reference that Ellin was referring to. "Sorry, Ari" has a scene where Chase plans to meet with a potential new agent who is never seen onscreen but is named "Andy Left."

The real Left rose to fame as a short-seller, betting against companies like Valeant Pharmaceuticals and GameStop.

Left was charged with securities fraud in 2024. Thursday was the fourth day of his trial, which is expected to last three weeks.

Phish is back with another packed touring schedule in 2026, featuring a newly announced Summer Tour that wraps with a five-night Madison Square Garden run in July. As usual, the band's multi-night shows are expected to draw heavy demand, especially for larger destination stops and MSG dates.

Formed in Vermont in the early 1980s, Phish became one of the biggest names in the jam band world thanks to its improvisational live shows, constantly changing setlists, and devoted touring fan base. Part of the appeal is that no two concerts are exactly alike, which has helped turn the band's long runs and repeat venue stops into major events for fans year after year.

On ticket availability and pricing, it's the usual Phish story: some markets still have decent options through primary sellers, while the hottest dates (especially Sphere) get expensive fast on resale. I've rounded up the band's schedule below. When you're ready to buy, head to StubHub and Vivid Seats to find the best resale prices.

Phish's 2026 tour schedule

• July 7, 2026 - Madison, WI at Kohl Center
• July 8, 2026 - Madison, WI at Kohl Center
• July 10, 2026 - Noblesville, IN at Ruoff Music Center
• July 11, 2026 - Noblesville, IN at Ruoff Music Center
• July 12, 2026 - Noblesville, IN at Ruoff Music Center
• July 14, 2026 - Savannah, GA at Enmarket Arena
• July 15, 2026 - Savannah, GA at Enmarket Arena
• July 17, 2026 - Raleigh, NC at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
• July 18, 2026 - Columbia, MD at Merriweather Post Pavilion
• July 19, 2026 - Columbia, MD at Merriweather Post Pavilion
• July 21, 2026 - Syracuse, NY at Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview
• July 22, 2026 - New York, NY at Madison Square Garden
• July 24, 2026 - New York, NY at Madison Square Garden
• July 25, 2026 - New York, NY at Madison Square Garden
• July 27, 2026 - New York, NY at Madison Square Garden
• July 29, 2026 - New York, NY at Madison Square Garden
• July 31, 2026 - Boston, MA at Fenway Park
• August 1, 2026 - Boston, MA at Fenway Park
• September 4, 2026 - Commerce City, CO at Dick's Sporting Goods Park
• September 5, 2026 - Commerce City, CO at Dick's Sporting Goods Park
• September 6, 2026 - Commerce City, CO at Dick's Sporting Goods Park

How much are Phish tickets?

Phish ticket prices on StubHub and Vivid Seats vary a lot depending on the venue and how many nights are left in a run. On the lower end, some resale tickets for regular amphitheater stops can still be found around the $40 to $70 range before fees, especially for weekday shows or upper-level seating. Multi-night Madison Square Garden runs and destination dates, though, tend to start at noticeably higher prices.

The most expensive Phish tickets are tied to floor sections and high-demand multi-night runs. On StubHub and Vivid Seats, closer seats for Madison Square Garden shows can reach the high hundreds or even exceed $1,000, depending on demand and availability. Like most jam-band tours, prices also fluctuate constantly as fans trade tickets closer to showtime, so cheaper resale options sometimes appear last minute — but the biggest destination dates usually stay expensive throughout the run.

See also: Is StubHub legit? | Las Vegas Sphere tickets | Kenny Chesney tickets | Backstreet Boys tickets | Eagles tickets | Sting tickets

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Megan Moroney is taking a major step up in 2026 with The Cloud 9 Tour, her biggest headlining run yet. The arena tour supports her third album, Cloud 9, and kicks off May 29 in Columbus, Ohio, before making stops across North America and later heading to Europe and the UK.

Moroney's rise in country music has been quick. After breaking out with "Tennessee Orange," the Georgia-born singer followed it up with her debut album Lucky and sophomore release Am I Okay?, helping establish her "emo cowgirl" style and turning her into one of country's fastest-growing new headliners.

For ticket availability, most stops are sold through the usual primary channels, and demand tends to be strongest in the biggest markets and on weekend dates. If you're shopping late, you'll often see scattered standard inventory for select nights, plus more options on verified resale like StubHub and Vivid Seats as fans' plans change — so it's worth checking a couple of nearby cities if you're flexible.

Megan Moroney's 2026 tour schedule

Megan Moroney's tour kicks off in May with several stops across the US before she heads overseas in September.

• May 29, 2026 - Columbus, OH at Schottenstein Center
• May 30, 2026 - Indianapolis, IN at Gainbridge Fieldhouse
• June 2, 2026 - Chicago, IL at United Center
• June 3, 2026 - Chicago, IL at United Center
• June 5, 2026 - Baltimore, MD at CFG Bank Arena
• June 6, 2026 - Greensboro, NC at First Horizon Coliseum
• June 8, 2026 - Atlanta, GA at State Farm Arena
• June 9, 2026 - Atlanta, GA at State Farm Arena
• June 12, 2026 - Louisville, KY at KFC Yum! Center
• June 13, 2026 - St. Louis, MO at Enterprise Center
• June 16, 2026 - Pittsburgh, PA at PPG Paints Arena
• June 18, 2026 - Milwaukee, WI at American Family Insurance Amphitheater (Summerfest Grounds)
• June 19, 2026 - Grand Rapids, MI at Van Andel Arena
• June 20, 2026 - Toronto, ON at Scotiabank Arena

• July 6, 2026 - Boston, MA at TD Garden
• July 7, 2026 - Boston, MA at TD Garden
• July 9, 2026 - Brooklyn, NY at Barclays Center
• July 10, 2026 - Newark, NJ at Prudential Center
• July 11, 2026 - Philadelphia, PA at Xfinity Mobile Arena
• July 14, 2026 - Charlotte, NC at Spectrum Center
• July 16, 2026 - Orlando, FL at Kia Center
• July 17, 2026 - Tampa, FL at Benchmark International Arena
• July 28, 2026 - Denver, CO at Ball Arena
• August 1, 2026 - Portland, OR at Moda Center
• August 2, 2026 - Seattle, WA at Climate Pledge Arena
• August 5, 2026 - Sacramento, CA at Golden 1 Center
• August 14, 2026 - Dallas, TX at American Airlines Center
• August 15, 2026 - Tulsa, OK at BOK Center
• August 18, 2026 - Detroit, MI at Little Caesars Arena
• August 21, 2026 - Nashville, TN at Bridgestone Arena
• August 22, 2026 - Nashville, TN at Bridgestone Arena
• September 26, 2026 - Manchester, UK at O2 Apollo Manchester
• September 27, 2026 - Glasgow, UK at O2 Academy Glasgow
• September 28, 2026 - Glasgow, UK at O2 Academy Glasgow

How much are Megan Moroney tickets?

On the resale market, Megan Moroney ticket prices can swing a lot by city and seat location, but both Vivid Seats and StubHub still show a mix of options and premium listings for 2026 dates. On Vivid Seats, tickets currently start at about $ 66 overall (with an average price around $198), so there are still some relatively affordable entry points if you're flexible on sections. For a specific arena stop like Chicago (June 2), Vivid Seats shows tickets starting at $94 with an average price of $322 — a good example of how bigger venues and stronger markets can push the going rate up.

On StubHub, pricing looks similarly range-y. For example, Nashville (August 21) shows a spread from roughly $145 on the low end to over $728 for top-tier inventory, which is pretty typical for an arena tour where the best seats come at a premium. As always with resale, totals can change fast as inventory tightens, so if you're trying to spend the least, it's worth comparing a couple nearby dates and checking the "all-in" price before you buy.

See more: Is StubHub legit? | Las Vegas Sphere tickets | Kenny Chesney tickets | Ed Sheeran tickets | Bruno Mars tickets | Bon Jovi tickets | Journey tickets

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• California Gov. Gavin Newsom wants to ensure that the state's sale tax applies to digital software.
• Newsom said it isn't fair that someone has to pay sales tax for an in-person purchase but not for a download.
• If passed, the tax could be another blow to already reeling software and SaaS companies.

California could deliver a big blow to already reeling SaaS and software companies.

On Thursday, Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed expanding the state sales tax to ensure it covers digital prewritten software. Newsom, whose term ends in January, said he had been "slow" to recognize that consumers were paying a 7.25% sales tax when they buy software in a store but not when they buy it online.

"As someone who lives near a Best Buy, I'm at Best Buy often," Newsom told reporters during a news conference. "And I'm paying sales tax on a lot of this prewritten software. And then I find out that all my friends that aren't near a Best Buy, they're downloading and they are not paying sales tax. How is that fair?"

Companies like Microsoft and Salesforce could be significantly affected by the tax. Newsom's proposal comes after the SaaSpocalypse, the significant Wall Street sell-off that hit software companies amid fears that generative AI models and vibe coding could replace their products and services.

Newsom's proposal would have to be approved by the California legislature. He called for state lawmakers to make the new tax effective January 1, 2027. Newsom said 35 other states already tax digital prewritten software, and 24 states have a SaaS tax.

"By the way, 75% of those transactions we estimate are business-to-business. "75%. That's why we're not doing streaming," he said, adding that the state legislature might feel differently about taxing streaming services.

According to Newsom's office, the proposed tax is estimated to bring in $450 million in this budget year and $900 million in subsequent years for the state's general fund. Additionally, it is estimated to generate $560 million in local tax revenues in this budget year and $1.1 billion in subsequent years.

Altogether, Newsom proposed a $350 billion spending plan that would leave the state without a budget deficit for two years. Newsom is widely viewed as a potential 2028 Democratic presidential candidate.

• OpenAI announced a Codex tab in the ChatGPT mobile app that lets users manage their AI coding projects from their phones.
• The mobile interface could help reduce the time spent with laptops slightly cracked open.
• "Step away from your laptop," OpenAI developers wrote on X while nodding to the recent trend.

OpenAI's latest offering could come in handy for the open-laptop walkers. The company is making it easier to remotely control their Codex AI coding app while on the go.

The company on Thursday announced Codex for mobile phones, available in the ChatGPT app. While users will not be able to program directly on their phones, they can prompt Codex to start vibe coding a new project or manage and view the agent's actions while it continues to run remotely on their computer or Mac Mini.

Using the ChatGPT mobile app, users can see threads, review outputs, approve commands, and change models.

In plain terms, that means more remote control of Codex, which could lead vibe coders to leave their laptops at home or the office more often.

"As agents take on longer-running work, a new rhythm for collaboration is emerging," an OpenAI blog post reads. "To keep work moving, you need to be able to easily answer a question, review what Codex found, change direction, approve what comes next, or add a new idea."

The advent of AI coding tools has led to a rise in people walking around with their laptops slightly open so that their local Codex agent can continue running. The AI coders previously told Business Insider that they're bringing these open computers to offices, schools, and ice rinks. (Of course, as many techies have pointed out, there are other ways to keep a laptop running while shut.)

But the trend quickly became a meme, one that OpenAI joined in on earlier this month while teasing "iykyk but we may be in for a treat soon 👀."

Ahead of its Thursday announcement, OpenAI also poked fun at the laptops-ajar trend in a video the company posted to its developers' X account. The video showed several laptops opened just enough to stay running.

"Step away from your laptop," OpenAI developers wrote on X. "Keep building with Codex on your phone."

Bruno Mars is back on tour in 2026 with The Romantic Tour, his first major global headlining run in years. The tour kicked off in Las Vegas before expanding across North America and Europe, and demand is already high for many of the bigger stadium dates.

Mars first broke out with Doo-Wops & Hooligans in 2010 and has since turned retro pop, funk, and R&B into massive hits like "Locked Out of Heaven," "24K Magic," and "Uptown Funk." Between his solo work, Silk Sonic collaboration with Anderson .Paak, and long-running Vegas residency, he has built a reputation as one of pop's strongest live performers.

The timing lines up with a new era, too: Bruno's long-awaited fourth solo album, The Romantic, dropped in February, setting the stage for a tour that should blend fresh material with the classics fans came for. Below, we'll break down the tour schedule and the best ways to buy Bruno Mars tickets, including what to do if your preferred date is sold out and how to compare resale options like StubHub and Vivid Seats.

Bruno Mars' 2026 tour schedule

The tour itinerary features headline dates at major venues, including MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, SoFi Stadium in California, Wembley Stadium in London, Stade de France in Paris, and Riyadh Air Metropolitano in Madrid, among others, and is set to conclude on October 14, 2026, in Vancouver, BC. Opening acts include Anderson .Paak (as DJ Pee .Wee) throughout the run, with Leon Thomas, Victoria Monét, and RAYE joining on select dates. Presales for the tour began in mid‑January.

• April 29, 2026 — Charlotte, NC at Bank of America Stadium
• May 2, 2026 — Landover, MD at Northwest Stadium
• May 3, 2026 — Landover, MD at Northwest Stadium
• May 6, 2026 — Nashville, TN at Nissan Stadium
• May 9, 2026 — Detroit, MI at Ford Field
• May 10, 2026 — Detroit, MI at Ford Field
• May 13, 2026 — Minneapolis, MN at U.S. Bank Stadium
• May 16, 2026 — Chicago, IL at Soldier Field
• May 17, 2026 — Chicago, IL at Soldier Field
• May 20, 2026 — Columbus, OH at Ohio Stadium
• May 23, 2026 — Toronto, ON at Rogers Stadium
• May 24, 2026 — Toronto, ON at Rogers Stadium
• May 27, 2026 — Toronto, ON at Rogers Stadium
• May 28, 2026 — Toronto, ON at Rogers Stadium
• June 20, 2026 — Paris, FR at Stade de France
• June 21, 2026 — Paris, FR at Stade de France
• June 26, 2026 — Berlin, DE at Olympiastadion
• June 28, 2026 — Berlin, DE at Olympiastadion
• June 29, 2026 — Berlin, DE at Olympiastadion

• July 2, 2026 — Amsterdam, NL at Johan Cruijff ArenA
• July 4, 2026 — Amsterdam, NL at Johan Cruijff ArenA
• July 5, 2026 — Amsterdam, NL at Johan Cruijff ArenA
• July 7, 2026 — Amsterdam, NL at Johan Cruijff ArenA
• July 10, 2026 — Madrid, ES at Riyadh Air Metropolitano
• July 11, 2026 — Madrid, ES at Riyadh Air Metropolitano

• July 14, 2026 — Milan, IT at Stadio San Siro
• July 15, 2026 — Milan, IT at Stadio San Siro
• July 18, 2026 — London, UK at Wembley Stadium
• July 19, 2026 — London, UK at Wembley Stadium
• July 22, 2026 — London, UK at Wembley Stadium
• July 24, 2026 — London, UK at Wembley Stadium
• July 25, 2026 — London, UK at Wembley Stadium
• July 28, 2026 — London, UK at Wembley Stadium
• August 21, 2026 — East Rutherford, NJ at MetLife Stadium
• August 22, 2026 — East Rutherford, NJ at MetLife Stadium
• August 25, 2026 — East Rutherford, NJ at MetLife Stadium
• August 26, 2026 — East Rutherford, NJ at MetLife Stadium
• August 29, 2026 — Pittsburgh, PA at Acrisure Stadium
• September 1, 2026 — Philadelphia, PA at Lincoln Financial Field
• September 5, 2026 — Foxborough, MA at Gillette Stadium
• September 9, 2026 — Indianapolis, IN at Lucas Oil Stadium
• September 12, 2026 — Tampa, FL at Raymond James Stadium
• September 16, 2026 — New Orleans, LA at Caesars Superdome
• September 19, 2026 — Miami Gardens, FL at Hard Rock Stadium
• September 23, 2026 — San Antonio, TX at Alamodome
• September 26, 2026 — Air Force Academy, CO at Falcon Stadium
• October 2, 2026 — Inglewood, CA at SoFi Stadium
• October 3, 2026 — Inglewood, CA at SoFi Stadium
• October 10, 2026 — Santa Clara, CA at Levi's Stadium
• October 11, 2026 — Santa Clara, CA at Levi's Stadium
• October 14, 2026 — Vancouver, BC at BC Place

How much are Bruno Mars tickets?

For fans who missed out on initial sales for Bruno Mars' The Romantic Tour, resale marketplaces such as StubHub and Vivid Seats offer a way to still snag seats — but prices can vary widely depending on date, city, and seat quality. On Vivid Seats, resale listings for many 2026 The Romantic Tour stops currently show some of the most affordable options, starting at $213 to $239 for standard seating in North American markets like Charlotte, NC, and Houston, TX. These lower‑end prices make it possible to find budget‑friendly resale tickets without breaking the bank, especially for early or less in‑demand dates.

At the higher end of the resale spectrum, demand for premium seats, particularly in major cities and stadium shows, can push prices significantly upward. For example, listings for European stops such as San Siro in Milan have resale prices around $784 or more, and some shows in Paris' Stade de France also show elevated pricing. StubHub's resale inventory reflects similar trends, with some listings showing ticket prices ranging from about $327 up to $741+ for popular dates and better seats backed by its FanProtect Guarantee.

Overall, if you're shopping resale for Bruno Mars tickets, you can generally expect to find cheaper resale seats in the low‑to‑mid‑$200s while premium sections and high‑demand listings push prices into the $700+ range or more. Because resale ticket availability and pricing can change rapidly as shows sell out and dates approach, comparing listings across multiple platforms like StubHub and Vivid Seats is a smart way to find the best value for your preferred concert.

See more: Is StubHub legit? | Vegas Sphere tickets | What's showing in Las Vegas | Kenny Chesney tickets | Eagles tickets | Backstreet Boys tickets

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• AI is being used in some elementary schools around the US to teach reading and math.
• Proponents say AI is here, and it's useful for personalized instruction.
• But many parents are wary of these new programs. I am! Some are starting to organize against them.

As an adult with a generally optimistic view on technology, I had a rude awakening recently: My third grader mentioned that he and his buddies had been using Google's Gemini on their school-provided Chromebooks to make funny pictures of poop and dinosaurs.

Technically, he admitted they're not supposed to be using Gemini like this, but they've figured out they have access to the tool — and if they finish their assigned schoolwork a few minutes early, they have time to mess around on their Chromebooks.

I didn't love the idea of them getting access to a generative AI image-making tool unsupervised — something I wouldn't allow at home. (Even if it's technically against school rules, it wasn't blocked or restricted.)

I'm not the only parent worried about AI making its way into the elementary school classroom. In the last few weeks, a handful of articles about AI and Chromebooks in schools have sparked a lot of discussion among parents — and, from what I've observed, the tone of these conversations ranges from frustrated to horrified.

A recent New York Magazine story, "Help! My kindergarten is all in on AI," detailed how AI programs are being used in some New York public schools. Proponents say they give a new ability to customize lessons to each kid's needs. Some New York parents are organizing and rallying against them. At an open meeting for parents to weigh in on AI policy with the city's Department of Education, one parent accused the chancellor of "experimenting on our children."

While there's been some grumbling about devices in the classroom for a few years, the introduction of AI — which many adults are wary of — has pushed the concerns further.

In The New Yorker, Jessica Winter examines how AI is being incorporated into K-12 education — especially through school-mandated programs on Chromebooks and iPads. She points out that no one seems to be asking the question: Do we actually want this?

When faced with the mantra we hear over and over — that AI is already here and we just have to get with the program — it's important to sometimes step back and ask these simple questions: Does this actually work? Is this actually good?

There are some genuinely unpleasant details in the story, like one study that showed "one in five student interactions with generative A.I. involved cheating, self-harm, bullying, and other problematic behaviors."

(Meanwhile, at the very top of higher education, Princeton just this week decided it will have exams monitored by proctors instead of its long-used honor system, where instructors would typically leave the room during tests. This comes in response to concerns over rampant AI cheating.)

Parents aren't just concerned about AI in schools

It's not just AI that's under a microscope.

For a long time, I've been in parent groups on social media where people are complaining about the apps their kids have to use that purport to be teaching math or English. NBC wrote about the parental backlash to one common math program. Some parents are saying they're going to opt their kids out of this program and other tech-enabled things at their schools.

And I'm not sure all the tech is actually helping us. It's too early to say whether AI-enabled learning is good or bad, but computers in the classroom don't seem to be doing us a lot of good: The Educational Opportunity Project at Stanford University published a new report that showed that reading and math test scores are down nationwide, sometimes a whole grade level lower than they were at the same schools in 2015.

The reasons for this decline are complex — Covid probably had an effect — but screentime (both at home and in class) is something lots of education watchers keep pointing to.

As a parent who completed middle school at a time when our access to technology was once a week in the computer lab to learn Mavis Beacon typing, I'm not quite digitally native enough to understand how all this technology in the classroom is affecting my kids. (And I'm a tech-focused reporter!)

But I'm seeing a bubbling concern among parents about the amount of screentime and technology kids are using in public schools for classwork. School-issued Chromebooks, which were heavily adopted during the pandemic and now seem here to stay, are a big target for the backlash.

I'm personally skeptical of the value of Chromebooks, iPads, and AI tools compared to pencil and paper, especially in younger grades. My personal stance is: Yes to learning what AI is and how it works; no to using it to teach math or reading.

Are you a parent or educator dealing with this in your schools? I'd love to hear from you: katie.notopoulos@businessinsider.com

• Cary Elwes starred in Rob Reiner's 1987 movie "The Princess Bride."
• Elwes last worked with the director on Reiner's 2016 movie "Being Charlie."
• Reiner's son, Nick, wrote the screenplay about his struggles with drugs and mental health.

Cary Elwes will always be indebted to Rob Reiner for giving him his big break in show business, casting the then-unknown British actor in the lead role of his beloved 1987 movie "The Princess Bride."

So when Reiner called Elwes 29 years later to ask him to be part of the most personal project of the filmmaker's career, the actor was more than willing to oblige.

"He told me that I would be playing a character who is very similar to him because he wanted to explore the family dynamic of having a child who was having mental issues," Elwes told Business Insider of his role in the 2016 indie film "Being Charlie." Elwes said he "jumped at the opportunity" to work with Reiner again.

"Being Charlie" was written by Reiner's son, Nick, who, after struggling with drug addiction for years and being in and out of rehab, decided to write a screenplay about the experience and asked his father to direct it. The movie stars Nick Robinson in the lead role as a young man struggling with drug addiction and his mental health. Elwes plays his actor-turned-politician father.

"It forced me to really have to understand what he had been going through for a long time," Rob Reiner told Business Insider back in 2016 about making the movie with his son.

The film would return to the zeitgeist in December 2025 when Nick was arrested in connection to the murder of his parents. His trial is scheduled for September; he has pleaded not guilty.

"It's bittersweet that that's the last thing we worked on," Elwes said, reflecting on his friendship with Rob Reiner. "But I tend to want to remember him for the wonderful contributions that he gave to our industry and to the people who loved him, rather than focus on anything negative. I don't want to focus on how he died, I want to celebrate how he lived."

Despite the stigma that hangs over "Being Charlie," Elwes, who currently is starring in the Peacock series "M.I.A," believes the movie still delivers a powerful message about addiction and seeking help.

"If Rob would want anything to come out of that, it would be that people learn to not brush these things under the carpet, to address these things head-on with care, with love, with compassion, and with empathy," Elwes said.

Bathing your dog offers many benefits. It helps remove dirt and grime from fur and skin, eliminates odors, and can deepen the bond between you and your pet. The best medicated dog shampoos can provide additional benefits tailored to your dog's specific needs. The right formulas can treat skin conditions caused by allergies or infections and relieve skin irritation.

As a veterinarian myself, I know how complex skin conditions in dogs can be. While I carefully selected the products in this guide, you should always consult your veterinarian before using a medicated shampoo on your dog. Your vet can diagnose your dog's condition, determine whether a medicated shampoo is needed, and, if so, which type. Sometimes, a prescription formula may be more effective than an OTC shampoo. Always follow your veterinarian's instructions when using any shampoo. If you're only looking for a nonmedicated shampoo, you can find excellent options in my guide to the best dog shampoos.

Read more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products.

Our top picks for the best medicated dog shampoos

Best overall: Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic and Antiseborrheic Medicated Shampoo - $9 at Chewy

Best for bacterial infections: Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo - $9 at Chewy

Best antifungal dog shampoo: Pet MD Topical Shampoo with Colloidal Oatmeal - $18 at Chewy

Best for skin allergies: 4-Legger Natural Organic Lemongrass, Aloe, and Coconut Oil Shampoo- $18 at Chewy

Best for fleas and ticks: Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo with Precor - $11 at Chewy

How to choose the best medicated shampoo for your dog

Best overall

Skin problems can cause irritation that leaves dogs feeling miserable, so it's important to resolve them quickly and effectively. "A medicated shampoo is used to treat numerous skin conditions, such as bacterial and fungal infections and allergic disease," says Dr. Joya Griffin, a board-certified veterinary dermatologist at Animal Dermatology Clinic. However, it's not enough to simply treat the condition. The skin also requires moisturizing to fully recover.

My top pick for the best medicated dog shampoo overall is Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic and Antiseborrheic Medicated Shampoo. The reasonably priced shampoo treats multiple skin conditions and also helps heal the skin. It treats parasitic and fungal infections, seborrhea (greasy, flaky, itchy skin), and general dermatitis (skin inflammation). Oatmeal and allantoin are added to soothe, hydrate, and promote healing.

The ingredients salicylic acid, coal tar, and micronized sulfur work together to treat skin infections and alleviate seborrhea symptoms. "Shampoos that contain sulfur or salicylic acid can be used for seborrheic conditions," Griffin says. However, she cautions that salicylic acid can cause dryness and irritation.

This shampoo is free of soap and dyes and safe for puppies at least 12 weeks of age. Another plus is that it does not remove topical forms of the best flea and tick treatments for dogs.

Best for bacterial infections

Bacterial skin infections, called "pyoderma," have several potential causes. These include broken skin from injuries or frequent scratching, a change in the skin's normal bacterial balance, and excess moisture on the skin.

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo contains benzethonium chloride, an antibacterial agent that targets bacterial skin infections, as well as ketoconazole to combat fungal infections. Many medicated dog shampoos formulated to treat skin infections include both antibacterial and antifungal ingredients.

This shampoo is our top choice for treating bacterial infections for several reasons. First, it effectively treats both bacterial and fungal infections. In addition, it contains lanolin to reduce skin itching and flaking, as well as aloe vera to soothe and heal itchy and irritated skin. Finally, it doesn't remove topical flea and tick medications. With all these benefits, it's impressive that the shampoo costs less than $10 for a 16-ounce bottle.

Although it doesn't lather as thickly as some other shampoos, it has a mild, non-medicinal scent and rinses out easily. It is safe for puppies 12 weeks and older.

Best for fungal infections

While fungal skin infections, like ringworm and yeast dermatitis, are less common than bacterial infections in dogs, they can also be treated with a medicated shampoo. For fungal infections specifically, my top pick is Pet MD Topical Shampoo with Colloidal Oatmeal. It contains ketoconazole, an effective antifungal agent, along with colloidal oatmeal and aloe vera to soothe and moisturize itchy, irritated skin.

The shampoo also contains chlorhexidine, an antibacterial agent that helps treat skin conditions like bacterial dermatitis. Chlorhexidine also has antifungal effects, giving the shampoo a slight edge in combating fungal infections compared to the Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo I recommend for targeting bacteria. In addition, chlorhexidine can help treat minor skin injuries, such as those caused by superficial cuts and insect bites.

This shampoo is safe for puppies at least 12 weeks of age. Its pleasant peppermint scent can last long after the bath. If you have a white dog, be aware that it may cause fur discoloration.

Best for skin allergies

Skin allergies are common in dogs and can occur year-round or only during warmer seasons. Allergies can be triggered by various environmental substances, such as pollen and dust. These irritants collect on a dog's skin and can cause persistent itchiness. If left unmanaged, they can lead to serious skin issues that may require intensive veterinary care.

Dog shampoos for skin allergies, also known as hypoallergenic shampoos, are free of ingredients and fragrances that could worsen or trigger the allergies. 4-Legger Natural Organic Lemongrass, Aloe, and Coconut Oil Shampoo is the best medicated dog shampoo for skin allergies. As a USDA-certified organic product, it is free of synthetic ingredients. Its natural ingredients, including aloe vera and essential oils, work together to provide effective relief for itchy and irritated skin caused by allergies. It also contains lemongrass, which has natural antimicrobial activity.

The shampoo is safe for puppies and adult dogs and has a light, non-medicinal scent. Although pricey, it's well worth its higher price tag ($18 for 16 ounces), given that it contains 100% natural ingredients and has the added antimicrobial activity provided by lemongrass. The other shampoos I evaluated for this category do not contain ingredients that can also treat skin infections. 

Best for fleas and ticks

Flea and tick control is a cornerstone of responsible pet ownership. The best way to prevent these troublesome parasites is by using veterinarian-prescribed flea and tick preventatives, which should be the primary method of protection for your pet.

Flea and tick shampoos do have their benefits, though. Dr. Tierra Price, a community medicine veterinarian in Los Angeles and founder of BlackDVM Network, says these shampoos can be very effective at killing adult fleas and ticks. However, veterinarians agree that flea and tick shampoos are not good for prevention. "Flea and tick shampoos have very little residual activity and are not effective in preventing infestations," Griffin says.

With this in mind, I evaluated several flea and tick shampoos that can complement prescription preventatives. Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo with Precor topped this list thanks to its powerful antiparasitic agents, natural moisturizing ingredients, and refreshing coconut scent.

This shampoo uses the synthetic pesticides S-methoprene and pyrethrins to kill fleas at all life stages for up to 28 days. The formula is also effective against other parasites, including ticks and lice. Meanwhile, natural oatmeal helps moisturize skin that's irritated and itchy from scratching. This shampoo can wash off topical flea treatments, so it's recommended to wait 48 hours before treating your dog with a topical medication after bathing.

Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo with Precor is safe for puppies 12 weeks of age and older. However, some of its ingredients, like pyrethrin, are toxic to cats. If you have a cat in the house, it's best to choose another option from our guide to the best flea shampoos for dogs.

How we selected medicated dog shampoos

I consulted two veterinarians who shared their clinical knowledge on medicated dog shampoos. They provided insights on when to use a medicated shampoo and explained how the active ingredients in these shampoos work to treat different canine skin conditions.

I also researched essential information on common skin conditions in dogs, including infections, allergies, and parasitic infestations, such as mites, fleas, and ticks.

Here are the selection criteria I used to evaluate products and make my recommendations for the best medicated dog shampoos.

Ingredients: I reviewed each shampoo's ingredient list to identify the active ingredients and prioritized shampoos that also include natural ingredients for soothing and healing the skin.

Safe for puppies: Since a puppy's skin is more sensitive than an adult dog's, I focused on shampoos that were gentle enough for puppies. Shampoos received higher ratings if they were safe for puppies, while those indicated only for adult dogs or lacking an age or life stage indication on the label were rated lower.

Ease of use: I read customer reviews to assess ease of use in real-life situations. Shampoos that pet parents found easy to use received higher ratings, while those with common complaints, such as poor lathering, were rated lower.

Effectiveness: I assessed each shampoo's ingredient list to determine whether the active ingredients were effective for the shampoo's intended purpose. Shampoos received higher ratings if their active ingredients were veterinarian-recommended for treating specific skin conditions, such as bacterial or fungal infections.

Scent: Shampoos with pleasant, non-medicinal scents were rated more highly than those with odors that might be off-putting to pet owners.

Glossary

A pet owner's ability to clearly describe a dog's skin condition helps a veterinarian diagnose the problem and develop an effective treatment plan. "A pet owner may come in and say, 'My dog has a rash,' which is not very helpful in diagnosing the condition," Price says. The following skin-related terms can be useful for pet owners to understand.

Antimicrobial: an agent that kills or stops the growth of microorganisms

Atopy: skin allergies

Chlorhexidine: antimicrobial agent

Crusts: scabs, which can be composed of dried blood, pus, and serum

Dermatitis: skin inflammation

Discharge: fluid

Ketoconazole: antifungal agent

Miconazole: antifungal agent

Papules: small, raised bumps on the skin

Seborrhea: overproduction of sebum from the skin's sebaceous glands, causing the skin to become greasy, scaly, flaky, red, and itchy

Medicated dog shampoo FAQs

Will an over-the-counter medicated shampoo treat my dog's skin infection?

Most over-the-counter (OTC) medicated dog shampoos don't contain the same active ingredients found in prescription formulas that effectively treat skin infections, Griffin says. "Without clinical studies to back up the efficacy of OTC medicated dog shampoos, these shampoos can be a 'hit or miss' regarding having the right combination of active ingredients to be effective," Price says.

Will an anti-itch shampoo work for my dog?

Most OTC anti-itch shampoos don't include the most effective ingredients for combating itchiness, such as hydrocortisone and pramoxine, Griffin says. They also don't offer long-lasting relief, so you may need to bathe your dog more frequently to keep itching under control.

Will a flea and tick shampoo for dogs prevent fleas and ticks?

Flea and tick shampoos can kill live fleas and ticks currently on your dog, but they won't protect against new infestations in the future.

How often should I bathe my dog with medicated shampoo?

Griffin says it's a common misconception that dogs should be bathed infrequently, such as once a month. You can actually bathe a dog several times a week or even daily if needed. As long as a shampoo contains the right ingredients, like those highlighted in this guide, frequent bathing can speed up therapeutic results without drying out the skin.

How long should I leave a medicated shampoo on my dog during a bath?

To get the full benefits of a medicated shampoo, you should leave it on your dog's skin for 5 to 10 minutes. Griffin recommends applying the shampoo all over, focusing closely on problem areas. After the recommended time, rinse thoroughly with clear, lukewarm water.

How will I know if a medicated dog shampoo is working?

Even the best medicated dog shampoos rarely provide immediate results and are most effective when used as directed by a veterinarian. "Consistency is key in achieving therapeutic benefit," Griffin says. Price says that it may be necessary to use the shampoo for one to two weeks before significant improvements are seen, such as healed skin lesions and reduced redness and itchiness. If your dog's skin condition doesn't improve or gets worse, Price recommends stopping the shampoo and contacting your veterinarian.

Can I use the medicated dog shampoo instead of expensive medication?

It depends on the condition. "In some conditions, such as seborrheic skin problems, a medicated shampoo can be used alone to provide therapeutic benefit," Griffin says. For deep skin infections, severe inflammatory responses, and chronic skin conditions that cause persistent inflammation, Price says additional medication is necessary.

• Cerebras Systems' stock rallied 68% in its first day of trading on Thursday.
• Investors flocked to the Nvidia competitor as enthusiasm for a wave of AI IPOs surges.
• It's first major AI firm to go public in a year of expected IPOs from big players like Anthropic and OpenAI.

The move: Cerebras Systems' stock more than doubled in its first day of trading before paring the gain to close 68% higher at$311.07. Shares burst out of the gate to rise as much as 109% to a high of $386.34 shortly after trading began.

The AI chipmaker raised $5.55 billion it its IPO, selling 30 million shares at $185 each.

Why: Cerebras is being viewed a the first drop in a deluge of high-profile pure play AI companies expected to go public this year. Investors in 2026 are expecting offerings from ChatGPT maker OpenAI as well as Anthropic, the maker of Claude.

Cerebras, though, is a hardware maker, and competes directly with Nvidia in the AI chip space. The company claims to offer AI inference with more speed than Nvidia's GPUs

What it means: The blockbuster offering and the intense enthusiasm from investors signals pent up demand for new AI offerings.

While offerings from AI titans like OpenAI and Anthropic are already on the radar, the success of Cerebras' IPO could lure other smaller players to the market as appetite for AI appears endless.

"Today's listing is the latest proof point of the demand for AI infrastructure and the market's shift toward heterogeneous compute," stated Sunghyun Park, CEO of AI inference infrastructure firm Rebellions.

For investors, Cerebras' IPO smash means that a year of critical IPOs with the potential to redefine the tech sector may finally be taking off.

Whether you're outside on a long run or grinding on a treadmill, a good playlist can make the miles fly by. But the best running headphones do more than just play music. They need to stay put through sweaty jogs, offer controls you can easily use mid-stride, and sound good enough to keep you motivated when your legs start to fade.

To find the best headphones for running, I tested a wide range of options over several months, using them on daily runs totaling around 500 miles. Along the way, I listened to everything from podcasts and audiobooks to high-energy playlists to see which pairs actually held up in real-world use. The Soundcore AeroFit 2 stood out as the most versatile earbuds thanks to their comfortable fit, practical features, and reasonable price. But if you mainly run indoors, the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are especially good for blocking out noisy gyms and treadmill distractions.

Below, you'll find all of my picks for the best running headphones, plus a breakdown of how I tested each pair and the key things to keep in mind before you buy your next set of earbuds.

Our top picks for the best headphones for running

Best overall: Soundcore AeroFit 2 - See at Amazon

Best for treadmills: Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 - See at Amazon

Best for outdoor use: Nothing Ear (Open) - See at Amazon

Best overall

The Soundcore AeroFit 2 are the most versatile running headphones I tested. They do the best job of balancing the key features runners look for, making them great for a variety of running styles. If you're searching for headphones to use only on a treadmill or only outside, you can find options tailored slightly better for those uses. But the AeroFit 2 earbuds are a more well-rounded option for those who want the total package.

They feature an open design that keeps them from plugging up your ears, so you can hear ambient noise for awareness. Despite not going directly into your ear canal, the AeroFit 2 deliver plenty of volume and low-end bass. Music sounds good, and speech isn't overly high-pitched. To be clear, open-ear buds like this won't ever match the sound quality you'd get from in-ear headphones, but this model still delivers solid performance, and this style is better suited for running since it lets you hear your surroundings.

The headphones use an over-the-ear hook design, which I found to be lightweight and secure. The ear hooks are adjustable, which means they should work with a wide range of ear sizes and shapes.

Other smaller details help set the AeroFit 2 apart from competitors. For instance, the included charging case accommodates the adjustable ear hooks in whatever position you leave them in, so you don't have to readjust them every time you take them out. The case even supports wireless charging, which is somewhat rare for fitness earbuds. Battery life is also impressive, with around 10 hours from the buds and a total of 42 hours with the case.

If there's a downside to the AeroFit 2, it's that there's no physical media control button. It's always nice to have a tactile button you can feel for. The saving grace is that the touch controls perform well. Instead of making runners tap three times to skip a song, both earbuds use a double-tap gesture for different functions. On the right earbud, a double-tap pauses or plays audio; on the left earbud, it skips tracks. This can be customized in the mobile app if you prefer something different.

Best for treadmills

Unlike my other picks in this guide, the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 use an in-ear design with silicone tips that create a seal in your ear canal. This style of earbud is much better at blocking out ambient noise than open-style headphones.

The Powerbeats Pro 2 even have active noise cancellation (ANC), which makes them ideal for quieting distracting sounds when running inside on a treadmill — whether at a facility or home gym. Even the noise your feet make as they pound on the conveyor belt can get loud and may need to be dampened. These work great for that.

The Powerbeats Pro 2 also deliver robust low-end audio that comes through especially well when using ANC. With ANC on, the buds offer a respectable eight hours of battery life (36 hours total with the wireless charging case).

The Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds also have built-in heart rate sensors. This feature works with certain apps across iOS and Android to add another metric to treadmill runners. But be aware that this feature is disabled when you use an Apple Watch with the earbuds, since the watch already has heart-rate tracking.

Beyond their excellent sound quality, I love the earbuds' easy-to-reach volume buttons. The "b" button on each earbud also flexes to provide tactile control for playback or ANC. The fit was stable on my ears and comfortable enough that I nearly forgot I was wearing headphones.

The Powerbeats Pro 2 also have a transparency mode that lets in outside sounds so you can hear your environment when you need to stay aware. This feature works well enough to use out on city streets, but I recommend going with a truly open-ear pair of headphones if you primarily plan to run outdoors. Sadly, there is no adaptive audio mode to block out selective loud noises, but that's less of a concern if you're using these on a treadmill.

Read our full Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review.

Best for outdoor use

The Nothing Ear (Open) are terrific earbuds for running outside. The main reason I recommend these for dedicated outdoor runners is their loud volume and full sound. At the same time, their open-ear fit means they hover just outside your ear canal, providing awareness of cars and people. But in this case, the open style doesn't mean you have to sacrifice good music quality.

Compared to other open-ear-style buds, I found the Nothing Ear (Open) to be more audible outside without needing to turn the volume up quite as loud. Any time you can keep from turning up the volume to the max, the better it will be for your hearing in the long run — pun intended.

Even though the over-the-ear hooks don't allow for any adjustments, I still found them comfortable and relatively secure. The rubbery hooks are flexible enough for different-sized ears, and the soft material feels nice.

Regarding media controls, the earbuds use a hybrid system similar to AirPods' pinchable stems. Squeezing the earbuds will play or pause your audio, while a double squeeze will skip songs. There's no physical button, but there's an audible sound to provide feedback.

However, adjusting the volume is a bit cumbersome. You need to squeeze and hold the right side to raise the volume, and do the same on the left side to lower it. I'm not crazy about this gesture in general, but it's even tougher to do while running than while standing. Still, the controls work well enough that I didn't encounter many false positives.

Battery life is solid: eight hours with the buds themselves or 30 with the charging case. But while the case supports USB-C, it's disappointing that it doesn't support wireless charging.

Beyond performance and function, I find the earbuds' unique, clear design to be attractive. Few running headphones are concerned with their appearance, so it's nice to have an option that offers some added style.

What else we considered

The picks listed above are the three best running headphones I recommend, but I also tested a lot of other earbuds that are worth considering. Here are some quick thoughts on other options that didn't quite make the cut as top picks in this guide.

Bose Ultra Open - See at Amazon
These high-end open-ear buds use a clip-on (ear-cuff) style for a secure, stay-put fit. They never slipped around, even when I reached for the big, clickable button in the back. While these buds are great for running, they can also be used for everyday listening. If you have a compatible Bose soundbar, you can even use the earbuds to simulate rear surround sound speakers while watching movies. But no matter how you slice it, these earbuds are a premium product at $300, and their feature set is hard to justify at that cost if you're primarily just using them for running.

Sony's Linkbuds Open - See at Amazon
This unique pair of earbuds has a physical hole in its design to let in ambient sounds. The first generation was a good start, but this latest model doesn't quite live up to its potential for an active lifestyle. Compared to other options, the Linkbuds Open don't sound full or loud enough while out running on the road.

Read our Sony Linkbuds Open review.

Sony Linkbuds Fit - See at Amazon
These earbuds use digital processing to let in outside noise. The wing tip kept the earbuds secure during my runs while remaining flexible enough not to put pressure on my ears. They're especially great for cyclists, as the design works well with a helmet. But given their $200 price tag, I wish the Linkbuds Fit sounded just a little better, with fuller bass when listening to music.

Shokz Open Fit 2 - See at Amazon
These are good running earbuds in a lot of aspects, but they're not a master of any area. The midrange sound was a bit muffled compared to other earbuds, and the fit was just a little looser than other picks. I did like the media control button. It was easy to press while running and gave good audio feedback in addition to its tactile feel. That alone isn't enough to push it past other options, but they're certainly worth considering if they're on sale.

Soundcore C40i - See at Amazon
This is another solid cuff-style earbud option. In the context of running, they did everything well, and I like that they have a physical media control button. However, they may not fit all ears equally. I also found the button could be hard to press while on the move, and while running outside, I needed to keep the volume level cranked to 100.

SoundPeats PearlClip Pro - See at Amazon
These headphones are a neat, lower-cost option, but I found them just a little too loose for running. They would probably work best for stationary or walking use.

Belkin SoundForm ClearFit - See at Amazon
Belkin's earbuds are lightweight and open. The sound was okay for an entry-level budget model, but I didn't like the touch controls, and the fit may be too loose for some people.

How we test running headphones

To select the best running headphones, I tested several models and evaluated their performance during actual runs. I ran at least 20 miles with each pair of earbuds, though I logged closer to 50 miles with most of them. I listened to music, podcasts, and other audio to get a sense of how the headphones sounded with different types of content. I ran outside in the rain and frigid temperatures, and in the heat when the sun was out.

My daily routine primarily consisted of running outside with the earbuds, but I did occasionally use a treadmill indoors. I made sure to use each pick in both conditions to test versatility.

Since the best running earbuds are designed for active use, I also checked whether sweat affected any of the charging contacts in their cases. Unless you're extremely diligent about wiping all the liquid from the earbuds, I've seen corrosion prevent headphones from charging in their cases. The AeroFit 2 showed some signs of this after a couple of months, but it was easy to wipe away and never interfered with charging. The Soundcore C40i also showed signs of corrosion, but it was harder to reach inside its narrow case, making it trickier to clean.

While I primarily connected the earbuds directly to my Apple Watch with Bluetooth, I also connected them to my iPhone to check out their companion apps.

Meet the expert behind this guide:

Tyler Hayes, contributing reporter: I've been writing about consumer tech products since 2013 and reviewing headphones for Business Insider since 2019. In that time, I've tested more pairs of earbuds than I can count. But for this guide, I didn't just sit at my desk and press play — I took every pair out on my own runs, logging 20 to 50 miles in them through heat, cold, and sweat. I also used them inside on a treadmill. I'm a daily runner, which means I'm picky about what actually stays put, sounds good when I'm pushing the pace, and holds up over time. The picks in this guide do just that.

Learn more about the Reviews team at Business Insider.

Running headphones FAQs

What makes headphones good for running?

One of the most critical elements that separates the best running headphones from lesser models is their fit. There's a lot of jostling in the sport, so keeping your earbuds secure is key to a good experience. I've found that even if the earbuds aren't at risk of falling out, feeling loose can be distracting and burdensome. If you aren't sure about fit, I would recommend starting with a pair that hooks over the ears or clips onto the sides.

Beyond the fit, you'll want to be mindful of how easy it is to access media controls and whether the headphones are water- or sweat-resistant.

Though the above guidance is geared toward finding the best headphones for running, many of these factors also apply to other uses. For more recommendations outside of running, check out our other headphone guides:

• The best headphones
• The best budget headphones
• The best earbuds
• The best headphones for working out
• The best noise-canceling headphones
• The best over-ear headphones
• The best Apple AirPods
• The best AirPods alternatives

Do running headphones need to be waterproof?

Different headphones can handle varying degrees of water or sweat. This level of protection is designated by the ingress protection (IP) rating system. In this system, the first number refers to debris, and the second refers to water. All of our picks for the best running headphones can at least handle liquid splashed from all directions, which is IPX4 — the "X" referring to no protection from dust and debris. A higher number provides better protection, but not all numbers are applicable to simply protecting against sweat from running.

Can any earbuds be used for running?

Though you can technically use pretty much any pair of earbuds for running, the best running headphones have features built specifically for the sport, including open designs, secure fits, and sweat protection.

Do over-ear headphones work well for running?

Generally speaking, over-ear headphones are not the best fit for running. This design tends to feel bulkier, trap more heat, and can shift around during high-impact movement. Their passive noise isolation also makes it hard to hear your surroundings.

If you run outside and prefer over-ear headphones, look for a lightweight pair with a secure fit and an awareness mode that lets you still hear your surroundings.

Why do many running headphones use an open-ear design?

Open-ear buds sit right outside your ears instead of going farther inside to create a full seal. This design allows you to hear more of your surroundings rather than the passive noise-blocking that can come from plugging your ear canals. Being aware of other people and vehicles is good for safety while running outside, so this style is popular for many of the best running headphones geared toward outdoor use.

Is it safe to use headphones for running?

Running with earbuds can be dangerous in busy environments, especially if the volume is turned up so high that it blocks out the sounds of cars and other people. (Turning the volume up too loud is also dangerous for the health of your hearing.) It's fine to use earbuds while running as long as the volume is moderate and you can still hear your surroundings when outside.

• Paramount+ is exploring adding podcasts, following a push from Netflix.
• A Paramount streaming executive said video podcasts could help drive engagement and discovery.
• Paramount has put short-form video on its service and is also looking at interactive features.

Paramount+ is planning to put podcasts on its signature streamer, Business Insider has learned.

Paramount Skydance streaming executives told tech and product staffers in a Thursday meeting that they see video podcasts as a growth opportunity.

Dan Reich, Paramount's EVP of streaming product, told employees that his goal is to "get more of the video podcasts" and "slice those up into segments for us to surface" in the streamer's short-form feed, according to a recording of the call obtained by Business Insider.

Netflix added video podcasts in January, becoming the first major Hollywood streamer to push into the format long dominated by YouTube.

The theory is that podcasts — and short-form video, which Paramount+ has invested in — could help streamers boost engagement, particularly during the daytime.

Video podcasts can help with both "long-form discovery" and "viewing itself," Reich said.

A person familiar with Paramount's approach framed the podcast push as an exploration and as part of the company's culture of experimentation in tech and media.

Ellison's company distributes a handful of podcasts, including shows about hit shows "Yellowstone" and "Survivor," as well as podcasts from late-night hosts Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert. Those podcasts don't currently appear on Paramount+, however.

Paramount is in talks with conservative podcaster Katie Miller — the wife of White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller — for a distribution deal, Axios reported on Thursday. Miller's podcast has featured interviews with many Trumpworld figures. Axios also reported that Paramount has spoken with podcast groups such as Jubilee Media.

Hugh Williams, a former Google exec who recently joined David Ellison's Paramount as an EVP and "Executive in Residence," said in the Thursday meeting that he's "pretty excited about podcasts."

"I think podcasts are great — I'm really glad we're getting into that space," Williams said on the call.

The product initiative to get podcasts onto Paramount+ began in early January and has a "target end" date of July 7, according to a screenshot of an internal project management dashboard viewed by Business Insider.

Another reference to the podcast project was labeled as a "key priority," a screenshot viewed by Business Insider showed.

Podcasts on Paramount+ could "exist as their own series," be tied to a franchise, or act as companion content, like an "aftershow," the screenshot said.

Jazzing up Paramount+

Paramount has been busy bolstering its namesake streamer.

Reich said on the Thursday call that his team was working with Paramount's news and sports groups to integrate some of their clips into the streamer.

"We're working with CBS Sports and CBS News to get all of their clips, sports highlights, news highlights into the service," Reich said. "That is a competitive advantage for us against companies like Netflix that don't have that volume of content."

Paramount+ added a short-form video feed in April on iOS mobile devices, which was a top first-quarter priority for the company.

The streamer is also looking to add interactive elements like a shopping feature and sports stats, which Williams nodded at.

"You can imagine sports scores, different ad formats, shoppable scenes," Williams said on the call. "I think there's just so much opportunity ahead of us."

Ellison's company is also combining the tech platforms for Paramount+ and Pluto TV this summer, and has brought together key technical teams to make that happen.

Correction: May 14, 2026 — An earlier version of this story misattributed a quote to Dan Reich that was made by another exec.

• Manny A. Varas, known as "the Billionaire's Builder," shared home trends popular among the affluent.
• Features that prioritize wellness over recreation are becoming increasingly popular.
• Varas also recommends that clients keep the next buyer in mind when constructing their dream home.

If you had nearly unlimited funds to design a home, what amenities would it include?

That's a question Manny A. Varas watches his ultrawealthy clients answer day in and day out. The master builder and developer at the Miami-based construction company MV Group is known as "the Billionaire's Builder" for helping celebrities and CEOs like Jennifer Lopez and Giorgio Armani create the home of their dreams. Varas is currently building roughly 15 homes in the $50 to $100 million range, and said about six of his current clients are billionaire families.

As tech billionaires — many of whom are from the West Coast — flock to Miami, Varas said he's seen a shift in home trends. Now, bolstered by a rise in interest in holistic living and longevity, biophilic integration and wellness amenities are the stars of the show.

With homes valued at eight figures and beyond, each decision you make could cost or earn you millions of dollars down the line.

Here are five home trends Varas is noticing among the ultrawealthy.

Keeping a client's climate control settings uniform across their properties is a nice touch.

It's common for high-net-worth individuals to own multiple properties worldwide.

When traveling from one climate to another, it may take your body an extra beat to adjust — but it might not have to in some homes.

"What we've done is transition the homes to make one circuit between all the different residences into an ecosystem that actually provides the same level of humidity," Varas said.

"Instead of having a dehumidifier or a regular AC, what we try to do is balance your humidity level to your standard in order to have 50% to 60% humidity continuously within all the homes that you reside in."

Recreational additions like theater rooms and bars are out, and wellness amenities are in.

A fully decked-out theatre room used to be the ultimate status symbol in any home; picture it featuring a large TV or projector, leather reclining chairs, and maybe even a popcorn machine. Now, however, homebuyers are trading their requests for recreation rooms for amenities that reflect a commitment to wellness.

"There's been an increased demand for wellness and a decreased demand in bars, media rooms, and cigar lounges in what was the typical estate home," Varas said.

What used to be a billiards room or cigar lounge is now a cold plunge or sauna, and the cocktail bar is now a spa.

High-end audio is making a comeback, with a twist.

While media rooms are becoming a thing of the past, one feature is making a comeback: the sound system.

But the days of speakers dangling from the ceiling or fastened to the walls are long gone. Now, the wealthy want to impress with their sound systems — they just don't want you to know they're there.

Varas said speakers can now be plastered into the wall so you can entertain without bulky systems in the way.

"Speakers in a lot of the common areas were virtually eliminated in the last few years because design evolved, trimless lights evolved, and then what didn't evolve was sound," Varas said. "We now have invisible speakers within the drywall… We've seen them be able to have ambient sound without being able to see any of the speakers or where the sound is moving from."

Privacy isn't just for the perimeter of the property.

Privacy has become an increasingly important request among the ultrawealthy. While billionaires like Jeff Bezos have set up entire compounds to keep intruders out, privacy inside the home is just as important.

"The privacy is room to room, and being able to have a conversation, whether you're on the phone or hosting somebody, and having each of those rooms be completely private," Varas said.

The need for privacy expands to everyone in the home's ecosystem. Many of the ultrawealthy have staff on the premises at all times, so Varas said it's also important for them to have space to do their jobs.

"When we have staff within the house, you want the staff to be able to function, but you want them to be able to function separately and still create your private space," he said. "We've seen a significant change where we're doing corridors completely sound insulated, so if there is staff within the house, they're able to come in and out as a private ecosystem and you're not noticing them and you don't hear them."

Having multiple kitchens is strongly encouraged — even if you don't cook

Varas encourages clients to think not just about what they want in a home, but about what a prospective buyer might want in the future when it comes time to sell.

One of wealthy buyers' biggest asks? Multiple kitchens.

Varas said almost all the homes he designs have a chef's kitchen and a front-end kitchen. When he has clients who don't cook much who only say they only want one kitchen, he tells them the next owner might want two.

"There is an enormous amount of people who love to entertain in the kitchen," Varas said. "Not having an open kitchen and just having a back-of-house dirty kitchen would not be correct from a resale and valuation standpoint."

• OpenAI is a customer and backer of Cerebras, the chipmaker whose stock soared in Thursday's IPO.
• OpenAI CEO Sam Altman owns a stake in Cerebras, a newly disclosed court document showed.
• Altman's stake was previously valued at $3.2 million. Now it could be worth around $30 million.

Sam Altman got a whole lot richer Thursday morning.

The OpenAI CEO has a multimillion-dollar stake in the chipmaker Cerebras, which kicked off the largest initial public offering of the year on Thursday. The company's stock opened at $350 a share, far above the $185 pricing. For Altman, who staked a piece of Cerebras long before it hit the public markets, that means a windfall.

An exhibit from Altman's ongoing trial against Elon Musk showed that he held 89,373 shares of Cerebras, worth $3.2 million at the end of last year. That's now multiplied. Cerebras' stock price was volatile on Thursday, though based on some back-of-the-napkin math, Altman's holding could be worth around $30 million.

Altman first snagged an interest in Cerebras in February 2017, the court document showed, long before ChatGPT's release and a frenzy of investment in AI computing channeled interest toward Cerebras. The company, led by CEO Andrew Feldman, makes platter-sized wafer chips purpose-built for AI.

In its IPO prospectus, Cerebras' leaders recalled that its first two generations of technology, in 2020 and 2022, didn't attract much attention. Then, "change arrived with ChatGPT," they wrote, and a few years later, "AI was smart enough to be valuable, and people were using AI everywhere. Inference usage exploded."

The chipmaker has been focusing on inference, the process by which AI models take inputs and spit back outputs for chatbot users and coding customers. Altman called Cerebras' chips "the best high-speed inference offering in the world right now" in a pitch video for the IPO, The Information reported.

OpenAI and Cerebras have become deeply intertwined. In January, the companies announced a deal worth north of $10 billion. They said OpenAI will use Cerebras' chips, and they'll co-design technology moving forward. OpenAI also gave Cerebras a $1 billion loan and has the option to buy additional batches of chips through 2030.

OpenAI also received warrants for millions of shares once Cerebras went public — so both Altman and his company will enjoy the benefits of Thursday morning's rally.

Cerebras declined to comment. OpenAI did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

Have a tip? Contact this reporter via email at scouncil@businessinsider.com, or over text, Signal, Telegram, or WhatsApp at 415-757-8198. Use a personal email address, a nonwork WiFi network, and a nonwork device; here's our guide to sharing information securely.

• Watch fans are camping outside Swatch in Time Square for its Royal Pop launch with Audemars Piguet.
• They've been lined up for days at Swatch locations nationwide.
• The Royal Pop pocket watches sparked opinions, excitement, and lines ahead of their release.

Watch fans have turned a busy Times Square sidewalk into a campsite for Swatch's drop with luxury watchmaker Audemars Piguet.

When the two watch brands at opposite ends of the price spectrum said on Saturday that they were teaming up, some people jumped at the chance to buy one before they knew what the collection would be. Swatch and Audemars Piguet later revealed they are collaborating on a collection of pocket watches called Royal Pop.

From Houston to New York, collectors and resellers have wasted no time lining up outside their local Swatch store ahead of the May 16 release.

At a location I visited in Times Square on Wednesday, I found lines of foldable chairs, with line-sitters having lunch and chatting.

I spoke to six people who spent days waiting outside the Swatch store for the chance to own their first Audemars Piguet. They were all excited to see a luxury brand come together with an accessible label.

"Everybody was freaking out about the collab, so I decided I'd come and try my luck here," Alex Bueno, a 23-year-old jeweler, said.

I learned there was a mutual respect among the 70 or so people in the line. Once you've claimed a spot and spent some hours in your seat, you're in. The honor system of keeping out line cutters and helping your new peers hold down their spots now falls on you, too.

Some of them worked in groups, taking 10-hour shifts to allow each other time to step out of line.

Some are lining up for the experience

Noah Hosler, a 24-year-old from Ohio, said he buys himself a new watch for his birthday each year. When he heard about the Royal Pop line, he booked a flight to New York City on Tuesday to camp out for his annual present.

He doesn't wait in line for new drops often these days, but he used to when he was a shoe reseller. Unlike those who could take turns going home for showers or naps, Hosler has been relying on his surroundings and the new connections he's made.

"It's more for the experience for me," Hosler said. "Camping out and meeting some new people — it's been fun."

A few line sitters said the Marriott Marquis hotel next to the store let them use the lobby bathroom, and the fast food spots in Times Square were mostly open to them hanging out if they bought something. I saw a street vendor selling water and energy drinks to those in line.

Hosler said he also packed snacks in anticipation of the long wait.

Pocket watches were a surprise

Saturday's initial announcement divided the watch world: some were excited, others worried an affordable watch could hurt the value of their ultra-expensive Audemars Piguet collections, and all were asking what the collection would look like.

Swatch and Audemars Piguet revealed on Tuesday that it would be a collection of eight pocket watches, rather than wristwatches, starting at $400.

WatchGuys CEO Robertino Altieri estimated that the pocket watch would still fetch more than its original price when it hits the resale market. Alitier said he expects it to peak at around $2,500 on launch day.

Still, three of the people I spoke with on the line said they saw several others leave the queue after the official images were released. Many of those who stayed said they intended to wear the pocket watch as-is or hoped that Swatch would release an adaptable wristband.

Bueno commuted from Connecticut on Tuesday to secure his place in line. He said he was "a little bummed out" that it was a pocket watch, but he and his fellow jewelers were still ecstatic about the drop.

"I'm still optimistic that we might get bands by Saturday," Bueno said.

After finding out that Swatch would allow one watch per person per day, Bueno was relieved to have already found a buyer for the pocket watch he had his eye on.

He and the others I spoke to said they witnessed people offering to pay for someone's spot in line and trying to buy the coveted watch at the store before it went on sale.

"The rarity of the item and to be so close to the door — I'm excited," Krista, a 31-year-old, told Business Insider.

It's Krista's first time camping out for a watch, and she said she felt comfortable settling in among the others in the line, who had built a functioning community over the roughly four days of waiting.

Many of the people I spoke to are worried the line could get more chaotic in the coming days and disrupt the camaraderie the line sitters had built. They were concerned that people could try to cut or bully their way into a better position.

"I see it happen with a lot of hypebeast drops, and this might be one of the biggest ones I've seen," Krista told Business Insider.

• Cisco stock surged on Thursday after reporting earnings, the latest dot-com darling to pop in 2026.
• Dell and Intel have seen similar comebacks, as AI lifts 90s computer names back to record highs.
• Cisco stock took 25 years to reclaim its dot-com era record.

Cisco stock saw a double digit surge on Thursday, highlighting an emerging theme within the AI trade: dot-com-era winners are back.

In a wave of '90s nostalgia, many of the tech stocks that dominated the market ahead of the dot-com crash have seen an AI-driven pop that's taken them back to records after years of struggling to reclaim the peak.

Cisco, Dell, and Intel were some of the break out performers of the dot-com craze that are seeing anAI-fueled revival this year.

Here are how the three legacy computer stocks are faring in the AI era.

Cisco

Cisco shares surged after reporting quarterly earnings results that beat Wall Street's estimates on the top and bottom lines and announcing layoffs.

The stock was up as much as 17% to $119.36 in Thursday's session following the earnings report, on track to record one of its largest single day gains seen since the dot-com era.

The company's CEO Chuck Robbins said in an interview with CNBC that AI-driven demand has fueled a "networking supercycle" that Cisco has found itself at the center of.

Cisco stock more than doubled in value each year during most of the 1990s before seeing negative annual returns after the dot-com bubble burst. The company was the third largest company by market capitalization at the end of 1999, but took the next 25 years to reclaim the highs of that era.

Dell

"Dude, you're getting a Dell."

So went the famous PC ad of the early 2000s.

The stock disappeared following a deal led by founder Michael Dell to take it private in 2013, but it made a fresh debut in 2018.

In 2026, it's riding the AI wave to new peaks. Dell stock has gained over 90% less than halfway through the year, and ahead of its fiscal first quarter report.

"The AI opportunity is transforming our company," the computer maker's CFO David Kennedy said during it's latest earnings release. The executive added that Dell's record-setting backlog is "powerful proof that our engineering leadership and differentiated AI solutions are winning."

Because Dell went private in 2013 before returning as a publicly traded company in 2018, there isn't historical stock data to demonstrate its 30-year valuation moves the way there is for Cisco.

However, newspaper clipping from before the dot-com bubble show the company's meteoric rise.

Dell stock was the top stock of the decade, gaining a whopping 91,863% in the '90s. For reference, Nvidia stock has grown roughly 1,290% in the nearly three and a half years since Chat-GPT was released in late 2022.

Intel

Intel stock marked fresh record highs after a chip deal with Apple after its latest blockbuster AI-driven earnings beat sent the stock on a tear, crushing its dot-com-era record.

The legacy US chipmaker was the sixth largest public company by valuation at the end of 1999, just ahead of the dot-com bubble burst.

The company has also been a target of the Trump administration's push to make more high-tech hardware in the US. The government snapped up a stake in the company worth $8.9 billion last August, an investment that's swelled to about $55 billion at the stock's recent peak.

"The next wave of AI will bring intelligence closer to the end user, moving from foundational models to inference to agentic. This shift is significantly increasing the need for Intel's CPUs and wafer and advanced packaging offerings," Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan said in the earnings print.

• Anthropic Labs chief Mike Krieger said he's receiving a lot of emails from parents of soon-to-be college graduates.
• Like many, they are wondering what their kids should do to thrive in an era of AI upheaval.
• Krieger said it's important "to remain curious" and understand nothing is "set in stone."

Top Anthropic executive Mike Krieger's message to college graduates and their parents nervous about AI is that they're not the only ones going through this process.

"I think what I tell folks is you're not alone," Krieger told tech journalist Alex Heath during a recent episode of Heath's "Access" podcast. "This is a shared kind of complicated thing."

Krieger, who cofounded Instagram, said he receives "a whole class of email" from people in his broader social circle who are parents of soon-to-be college graduates. One of his messages is that there will continue to be innately human areas that AI won't affect anytime soon.

"I think the things that will still remain human, and ineffable, and important are still relationships and curiosity and creativity and the ability to organize people towards an end," he said. "I don't see AI replacing that anytime soon."

Since January, Krieger has helped lead Anthropic Labs, a unit dedicated to "incubating experimental products at the frontier of Claude's capabilities," as the AI startup described it at the time. Previously, Krieger was Anthropic's chief product officer.

Anthropic has become one of the most outspoken AI companies when it comes to talking about job displacement. Its CEO Dario Amodei, has repeatedly warned that AI will wipe out up to half of all entry-level, white-collar jobs in the next one to five years.

AI executives have increasingly discussed their advice for those joining the workforce, even as the debate about the extent of displacement rages on.

Krieger said it's important to understand that if someone is unhappy in this situation, it won't always remain that way.

"Even if in the current moment with all the uncertainty, maybe our friend's kid doesn't land in exactly the job that they wanted, things will continue to shift," he said. "Nothing is set in stone."

Like others, Krieger emphasized that people who are open to change will be better able to navigate this moment.

"I think if people remain curious and actively exploring what the frontier looks like, they might then either be part of creating a whole new category of jobs or progressing to a different place in their own companies," he said.

• Jake Rosmarin is a creator who's been in quarantine after the hantavirus outbreak.
• The travel influencer saw his Instagram followers soar after posting about life during the incubation period.
• Rosmarin said he's had mixed emotions seeing his follower count take off for his quarantine posts.

This as-told-to story is based on an interview with Jake Rosmarin, an American travel influencer who is being quarantined after being on board the M/V Hondius cruise ship following a hantavirus outbreak. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I'm a freelance content creator and photographer, and was on the cruise with the company to show people these remote places that they might not know about. I'm on day four of a 42-day incubation period in the national quarantine unit in Omaha, Nebraska, and as of this moment, I do not have any viral infection. Even though it doesn't mean anything in the long run, I'm taking it as a win.

I'm stuck in a room all day. It's a bit nicer than a hospital room, and I'm allowed to get packages and stuff. I was able to get a mattress cover, new pillows, and sheets. I'm supposed to get posters today, so I'm able to make this place feel like home.

I miss my fiancé and my family. I get to talk to them every day. But it's the physical contact — I'm a big hugger, and I can't wait to be able to hug people again.

I've been posting about what my days look like because I think it was just something that I needed to do for my mental headspace, because that's all I know: creating content. Maybe it'll feed some of the conspiracy theory people, but at the end of the day, you're not going to change their minds for the most part, right?

I have mixed emotions

The increase in followers that I've gotten was a really emotional experience for me, especially when I hit the 50K mark.

I just cried a lot, because I really was so excited at some point to hit 50K followers on Instagram. I never wanted to get to where I am now because of a situation like this.

I got into freelance content creation and photography after quitting my job in TV advertising in 2021 and slowly made it my full-time job. I enjoy showing people about my life. I'm not just Jake the traveler — I'm Jake the marathon runner, and Jake the guy who likes to go on long walks and hikes, and go to Orange Theory, and try new foods and do new activities in Boston.

As a small travel influencer, I'm not paid by the company — I think that's a misconception. A lot of the time, I'm being sent on a free trip, and I make money when I convince people to travel with a certain company through an affiliate link or promotional code. The amount of travel varies — I could take two to 10 trips a year. I also do some brand ambassador work for a travel company.

Looking to the future

No travel company has reached out to me, so I don't know what this experience will mean for me in the long run. I also think it's not really the right time for me to be doing any kind of partnership — I'm in a quarantine unit.

A company messaged me yesterday, and I said, "Thank you so much for the comment. Instead of sending me something, if you were able to donate something toward hantavirus research, I think that would be really amazing."

I really don't want to be receiving things from brands. If I knew that someone was sending me something because that's what they really cared about, and didn't care about a shout-out or anything like that, maybe I'd be open to it. But if a big company that has a lot of money can send something to me, why not donate to research instead?

The first step of getting through this is to come to terms with the realization that I'll be here for a total of 42 days. Then it's trying to look at the positives and appreciate the little things. Getting a Starbucks delivered to me brought me so much joy. I can either stay in this room for six weeks and sulk or try to enjoy my time as much as possible.

I think when this is over, I'm going to go back to what I was doing before the trip: integrating all aspects of my life into my content. I don't want it to become my entire life. I'm not always going to be Jake, the guy who was in the hantavirus quarantine.

• I often organized my day around Wordle and had a daily alarm, so I wouldn't forget to play.
• I had a 222-day streak, and when I finally broke it by running out of guesses, I was heartbroken.
• However, I realized that the feeling of obligation had stolen my love of doing the puzzle.

Once my streak got long enough, I knew I was helplessly hooked on Wordle. For 222 straight days, I opened the New York Times Games app and dutifully completed the daily puzzle amid a slot machine-like spin of yellow and green squares.

Early on, it was genuinely a fun challenge, a pleasant little ritual as part of my evening wind-down scrollfest. But somewhere along the way, the game stopped being just a game, and keeping the streak alive became the whole point.

I often went to great lengths to protect my Wordle streak

I started organizing my behavior around protecting it. I set a daily alarm on my iPhone so I didn't accidentally let the day go by and forget to play, no matter how busy I got. I played while sick (reasonably easy). I played while exhausted (harder). And I played while traveling internationally with rigorous itineraries in upside-down time zone situations (hardest).

Once, while returning from a remote island trip with my family, I erased all my vacation zen by struggling to find WiFi in a low-tech airport so as not to break my streak (and then, when I couldn't, I paid $30 for WiFi on the long-haul overnight flight home for the explicit purpose).

Then one day, not as a result of some dramatic life event or connectivity flameout, but just because I ran out of guesses, I lost. And just like that, 222 days of consistent positive reinforcement went away.

I was surprised by how upset I was when my streak ended

When I saw my new current streak at "0," I felt disproportionately upset. I felt like I'd lost something meaningful to me — a sign, perhaps, of my smarts and dedication. As one does, I texted my woe to the group chat: "I can't even have this?!"

My sister replied immediately: "Streaks are a conspiracy to keep us enslaved."

My longtime friend wrote: "You smashed it. Mission accomplished. Goodbye! On to the next mountain!"

With that encouragement, my thinking completely shifted. Instead of focusing on how I blew it, I internalized a sense of — what was this new feeling? — freedom. For the first time in more than seven months, I no longer had this digital obligation in addition to all my regular daily tasks of parenting, work, and everything else. Talk about reframing the narrative.

I started thinking about 'streak culture'

After my epiphany, the idea of streak culture got under my skin. Streaks are everywhere now: Wordle, Duolingo, Peloton, meditation apps, fitness trackers, and on and on. Modern life is increasingly organized around maintaining visible continuity, often through brightly colored counters, icons, badges, bursts of digital confetti, and other celebratory notifications designed to make us feel accomplished for simply showing up repeatedly.

And to be fair, streaks absolutely can be helpful for motivation. Plenty of people genuinely benefit from the structure and accountability they provide. The reason so many apps use them is that they really do work.

But they also create a dynamic where skipping a leisure activity is psychologically fraught.

"Every time Duolingo shows you a flame icon growing higher or Wordle tells you your streak is still alive, your brain releases a small hit of dopamine," Mel Plourde, LMSW, a psychiatric technician and program case manager at Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery Center, told me.

None of it is accidental. "These apps are designed to produce a neurochemical reward system that makes you keep coming back," she said.

She explained that losing a streak can feel surprisingly painful because of something called "loss aversion"— the psychological principle that losing something tends to feel more emotionally powerful than gaining something of equal value.

Missing one day of Wordle did not objectively change anything about my life. I hadn't lost money, status, relationships, reputation, or opportunities. And yet emotionally, it felt weirdly significant. But once the streak disappeared, I realized how much pressure I'd attached to something that was supposed to be fun — and I was quite glad to be rid of it.

I lost the love of the game — and now, I have it back

Plourde also mentioned the "overjustification effect," in which external rewards replace internal motivation. In other words, you start learning a language because you genuinely want to learn it, but eventually, you're opening the app mainly to protect the streak counter.

If I'm being honest, by around day 100, I wasn't really playing Wordle because I loved Wordle anymore — and it certainly didn't feel like a wind-down brain break. I was playing because I didn't want to lose.

Now that the streak is gone, I still play occasionally. But I definitely deleted that daily alarm. Now I play because I feel like it, not because of an app holding me hostage. And that feels a lot healthier.

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• Delta Air Lines is one of few carriers opting against installing Starlink internet on its planes.
• The airline instead tapped Amazon LEO in March to become its in-flight WiFi provider.
• Elon Musk hit out at Delta's choice on X, saying it would be "painful, difficult and expensive."

Elon Musk doesn't seem pleased with Delta Air Lines choosing a rival internet provider to Starlink.

Dozens of airlines around the world have struck deals with Starlink to give passengers free, high-speed WiFi. It connects to a constellation of over 10,000 satellites, helping provide connectivity in remote areas, such as over the ocean.

However, Delta instead tapped Amazon LEO in March to become its in-flight WiFi provider. Amazon's service has launched about 300 satellites so far.

On Wednesday, Musk replied to an X post that suggested Delta chose Amazon because it wanted customers to connect via its own Delta Sync portal.

"SpaceX requires that there be no annoying 'portal' to use Starlink," Musk posted. "Starlink WiFi must just work effortlessly every time, as though you were at home."

"Delta wanted to make it painful, difficult and expensive for their customers. Hard to see how that is a winning strategy," he added.

A Delta spokesperson told Business Insider that "the assertion in question is not accurate." The airline said it chose Amazon's Leo connectivity service over Starlink for "several reasons," including the potential for a "broader partnership" beyond just in-flight WiFi.

It added that Amazon met Delta's technical requirements and shared its vision for the "next era of connected travel," while adding that Delta's strategy is to equip different aircraft with the technology that best fits each fleet.

Delta also clarified that passengers would still have been able to access the Delta Sync portal via a SkyMiles login.

To the last point, while Starlink has pushed for a more seamless in-flight WiFi experience with minimal friction between passengers and the web, airlines using the service still route access through their own branded systems.

United Airlines' Starlink access, for example, is tied to its MileagePlus platform — with similar setups at Alaska Airlines and Qatar Airways.

Delta isn't saying its portal was an obstacle. It seems to want a deeper level of control over the ecosystem surrounding onboard internet than SpaceX may have preferred.

SpaceX did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

Qatar has faced similar decisions in its Starlink strategy. Xia Cai, Qatar Airways' SVP of product development and design, talked at a 2024 APEX event about the airline's approach to customer engagement through its Starlink connectivity.

"There has to be a connection. Is it a transient connection? Or is it actually something that you're going to build to create an experience, which Delta has done really well on their Sync platform?" Cai said, the aviation website Paxex.Aero reported. "How do you engage [with passengers]?"

United is actively installing SpaceX technology and expects the rollout to be completed by the end of 2027. Delta's planned next-generation connectivity project with Amazon's Kuiper network is not expected to begin until 2028.

It isn't the first time this year that Musk has taken umbrage with an airline.

In January, Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary said he wasn't interested in Starlink, suggesting that installing the terminals on airplane fuselages would increase drag and, in turn, fuel costs.

Musk and O'Leary then engaged in a dayslong war of words, including Musk suggesting he could buy Ryanair, and calling for O'Leary's firing.

In the five years I've lived in my house, there's an entryway bench I've never once sat on.

This poor, sweet little bench is always buried underneath piles of coats, orphaned socks whose partners have presumably started new and better lives, and the occasional fossilized Girl Scout cookie. Our coat rack cowers in the corner, assuming the posture of a weeping willow in its final days.

Many people with children recognize this tableau as the encroaching entropy of modern family life, where nothing seems to have a place, and the thought of fixing the chaos looms so large that it just never happens!

Decluttering had been on my to-do list for about eight months. At one point, I gleefully declared I would be "rewarding" myself every evening after bedtime by decluttering one small area.

By day three, I realized this was the worst idea I'd ever had, and resumed bingeing "The Pitt."

On day four, I decided to hire Raquel Bolton of Rainbow Rooms, a local professional organizer, to visit my home, assess the chaos, and implement systems to contain it. Ten hours of her time cost me $1,000.

Here is what I learned.

Where do we start?

Raquel Bolton lives up to her company name: her leggings contained every color visible to the human eye, and she showed me photos of her own home, which is similarly bright and cheery.

Bolton offered a free consultation to walk through my space as she gave an honest assessment: I had the budget for 10 hours.

A full overhaul — including relocating the sprawling main-floor kids' zone to our finished basement, which is currently used for storage — would take about 30 hours over one to two weeks.

We decided to do what we could, tackling the entryway and our connected living-dining room areas over the course of two days.

Bolton sent links ahead of time with storage options I could order before she arrived, but she was also happy to work with what I already had. We ended up doing a little bit of both.

On our first day, Bolton immediately set to work sorting swiftly through years of accumulated kid clutter.

"It's going to look a lot worse before it gets better," she warned, as we sat on the floor surrounded by Barbies with their hair chopped off, waterlogged puzzles missing key pieces, and a toy cellphone that had recently caused a full-on sibling war.

Within minutes, she created piles: keep, donate, nostalgia, toss.

What struck me most was how fast she moved. Where I might have spent 10 minutes debating the emotional significance of a broken toy stethoscope, she made the (correct) call in seconds.

Before becoming a professional organizer, Bolton was a fifth-grade teacher and ran a home day care, so she moved through the piles with an intuitive sense of what was developmentally past its prime and what still had life in it.

I got so emotional (over my) baby

I expected to feel mildly embarrassed by all of the crap we would find, but I didn't anticipate the emotional weight of the process; a sizable number of toys and books triggered specific memories.

I had to invoke my inner Marie Kondo — expressing gratitude for the joy each item had brought my family — and then say goodbye. And for particularly meaningful or high-value items that I couldn't part with, we had the "nostalgia" pile waiting. They'd later be put in a dedicated storage zone.

Once we hit our stride, Bolton didn't need me hovering. She worked through the remaining areas solo, and I'd resurface periodically to find three neat piles awaiting my executive approval. The process felt efficient and literally saved me hours.

Occasionally, mystery items would surface — Bolton used Google's AI tools to identify them. My favorite was a set of small wooden pieces that flabbergasted both of us, but that artificial intelligence correctly identified as fake pills from a doctor's kit. We were able to reunite them with their toy.

At 2 p.m. sharp, Bolton took a break to sign her kids up for their town's coveted spring-break camp as soon as registration opened. If you are a parent, you understand.

The moment was a humanizing reminder to me that this service was different from hiring other contractors: Bolton is also a mom in the trenches who navigates the same challenges, and she brings that perspective into every aspect of the work.

The kitchen analogy

Bolton has a signature framework she shares with every client: "Everything has a home." It sounds obvious until she maps it onto your actual life.

"I tell my clients that the ideal playroom has a similar setup to a kitchen," she explained. "You have cupboards and drawers for putting things away, those drawers have specific contents, and then you have workspace — the countertop, the island — which is the equivalent of the playroom floor or a play table."

The analogy extends to how we use the space.

According to Bolton, you would never empty the spoons and forks from your dishwasher and toss them randomly into a drawer mixed with the peeler and spatula. Yet, she pointed out, most parents do exactly that with their children's toys — lobbing everything into one giant bin — and somehow this seems completely normal.

"For children, playing is their 'job,'" she said. "Toys are the tools they need to do their work. If we want children to be independent, they need to be able to find their tools."

And when it comes to tidying up, Bolton cautions against ever telling your kids, "Don't mess up the playroom. I just tidied up in there!"

You would never say: "Don't have a cup of tea. I just put the mugs away." Toys are meant to be played with.

Volume problems

I asked Bolton what the most common mistake families make that contributes to clutter. "Too many toys," she said, without missing a beat.

"Of course, all the toys end up tossed randomly into one bin, because the quantity is so overwhelming. It's too time-consuming to put things in individual places when there are just too many of them."

Her solution, apart from regular decluttering, is toy rotation. Rather than giving children access to everything at once, Bolton advocates treating toys like seasonal décor or a rotating wardrobe — a curated selection is accessible at any given time, while the rest is stored away.

The payoff is twofold. First, tidying up becomes more manageable. Second, during her years running a day care, Bolton found that children play better when a limited number of toys are available.

Fewer choices lead to less overwhelm and more focus. As a bonus, a toy that's been out of rotation for several weeks feels brand new when it comes back out.

Putting everything back together again

Bolton's core principles in practice are simple: keep things in their logical places, create systems kids can use themselves (picture labels for younger children so they can put things back independently), and remember that kids won't play with toys they can't see.

And at the end of the two days, our entryway transformation was the most dramatic. Each family member now has a dedicated hook and bin — the simplest and most economical solution rather than a more elaborate built-in.

The bench is, for the first time, accessible.

Bolton also encouraged us to move a beautiful dresser up from the basement, where it had been sitting empty and unappreciated, into the dining room to house my husband's art supplies, my annual two-week knitting hobby, assorted electronics, and the general adult miscellany that had previously lived visibly on every horizontal surface in the house.

A newly organized TV room. A dining room with a dedicated art cart. Adult things and children's things, finally separated.

My 7-year-old son came home that afternoon and said, "This woman is a GOD! I can actually find things now when I want to play with them." He was especially pleased with his "weapons corner," which, I want to be clear, contains only foam Harry Potter Swords of Gryffindor.

The next morning, instead of going straight to the TV, my kids went to their newly visible, newly accessible toys. Bolton would not be surprised.

But does it keep?

After our initial reveling, a few days in, things looked a bit sloppy again, but it was a meaningfully different kind of sloppy. Things have places now, categories exist, and critically, there is just less of everything.

That last part is probably the most durable change because no amount of system-building can compensate for the volume that comes from hanging onto a lifetime supply of miniature plastic objects engineered for a hyper-consumerist childhood where nothing is meant to last, except maybe the clutter.

The kids eventually drifted back to their morning TV routine (because "Peppa Pig" remains, inexplicably, appointment television). Still, now, when I say "that's it" for TV time, they are less likely to whine and more willing to explore the analog alternatives around them.

I do have one concern: the beautifully labeled craft supplies in their elegant storage bags have not been touched in earnest since the reorganization, although I'm glad my son is now doing his homework with a sharpened pencil instead of a half-chewed crayon.

There's something about a perfectly arranged space that can make it feel slightly museum-like — too ordered to disturb.

Bolton would likely point out that this is the Instagram-aesthetic trap in miniature: organizing for appearance rather than function. The goal, she always says, isn't the "after" picture; it's a more functional space.

I may need to be the one to crack open the watercolors first and give the kids permission to make a beautiful mess.

The value question

In the end, I spent $1,000 for Bolton's time and a modest additional sum on storage bins and hooks. Bolton was largely able to work with what we already had, so the out-of-pocket spend beyond her fee was minimal.

More importantly, having an external person present forced me to make decisions in real time rather than defer them. The "keep, donate, nostalgia, toss" framework cut through months of my own avoidance in a single morning. That alone felt worth the price.

Bolton charges by the hour rather than by project, as she's found it's the fairest way to handle jobs that tend to grow once families realize how much they've been holding onto.

At $100 an hour for the Westchester/NYC metro area, I think it's a reasonable expense for what amounts to a combination of physical labor, editorial judgment, and — when a particularly beloved but structurally compromised stuffed animal enters the picture — low-grade therapy.

I know our home will never be perfect, and that mess can be excellent evidence of a happy childhood in progress. What Bolton gave us isn't a pristine playroom, but a system that can absorb the frenzy without completely surrendering to it.

We're likely moving next year, and when we do, I'll hire Bolton again to clear out the kids' rooms and establish systems in the new space before total chaos has a chance to take root.

Until then, I'll be sitting on my bench.

• Alex Karp expressed surprise at the German military's stance on Palantir in an interview with BILD.
• The head of Germany's cyber forces has said it is "simply inconceivable" ⁠to grant Palantir staff national database access.
• The Palantir CEO also made the case for Ukrainian defense technologies.

BERLIN — His company is considered the technological backbone of some of the world's most powerful militaries. Alex Karp, CEO of the American data analytics firm Palantir, supplies software to the United States, Israel and Ukraine, among others. Yet Germany's Bundeswehr, its military, does not want to integrate his products.

Is this German skepticism justified? And can Germany's military buildup succeed without his battle-tested products? In an interview with BILD — which like Business Insider belongs to the Axel Springer Global Reporters Network — Palantir CEO Alex Karp expressed surprise at the Bundeswehr's stance and made the case for Ukrainian defense technologies.

Following a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Minister Mykhailo Fedorov in Kyiv, Karp praised Ukraine, saying : "They deserve a lot of credit for building one of the most important military defense systems in the world."

He does not share the pessimism of many Western observers: "Every person we dealt with believes they're going to win the war. They're very optimistic."

Karp is proud that his company is contributing to Ukraine's defense. He described his products "as an operating system for war," so "the same way you'd have an operating system for a company or anything or even a car, they have it for the modern battlefield."

"Currently there are very few people in the world who could do this," he said in the interview.

Ukraine, he said, manages the battlefield "the way a tech company would manage its clientele." Only the key questions are different: "How many Russian people die per square kilometer? And why and how and what are the payloads and what worked and what didn't?"

Karp said that other European countries should make use of this expertise by purchasing proven Ukrainian technologies. "What products is Europe gonna buy to defend itself? Is it going to buy PowerPoint tested products?" he said. "Or are they gonna buy the products that are single-handedly stopping a great military power?"

The battlefield, he emphasized, is the ultimate testing ground.

"One of the best ways to figure out what works and what doesn't is to see: Does it work on the battlefield? " he said. "You know, if you take a PowerPoint from us and a PowerPoint from an obviously fraudulent company, you may be able to tell a difference if you're highly technical, but by and large you really can't. You have to see, does it work or not? And the most unforgiving place in the world is the battlefield." That is why he hopes "that Europeans are open to Ukrainian-produced products."

Karp said Palantir itself has no access to Ukrainian data, even though the military uses parts of its software.

"When they're doing air defense or targeting, almost all the code is written by them, controlled by them. We have no access." he said. "In that sense, in my view, there's no sovereignty issue. I couldn't tell you what they're doing, how they're going, and I can't stop them from doing it. That's controlled by them."

Karp, who studied in Germany and speaks fluent German, takes a critical view of the German military's rejection.

"Every serious battlefield in the world uses parts of Palantir. There's a reason for that," he said. At the same time, he expressed understanding that Germany and other major countries want "autonomous systems — and they should have autonomous systems.

The head of Germany's Bundeswehr's cyber forces, Vice Admiral Thomas Daum, told the German newspaper Handelsblatt in April on the topic of Palantir: "As much as we are interested in the functionality for our own database, it is simply inconceivable at the ‌moment ⁠to grant industry staff access to the national database."

Reached for comment, a spokesperson for Germany's Ministry of Defense said that the statements made by Daum "speak for themselves."

Still, Karp is puzzled by German skepticism — especially given that his cofounder, Peter Thiel, was born in Germany. "Peter and I are the most prominent Germanic and/or German-speaking business people in the world by far, and every other country would have found a way to adopt us."

"If we were French, the French would wholesale force us to have French passports and only speak French and change our name to Falantir," Karp added. "I don't understand how Germany believes it can afford this, and I would say at a general societal level, a lot of the discussions sound like they're talking about witchcraft.

"By the way," he added. "How would Germany have ever sold any of its products post-World War II, if that was the way it has thought about things?"

Palantir's 22-point summary of Karp's book, "The Technological Republic: Hard Power, Soft Belief, and the Future of the West," declared that "the postwar neutering of Germany and Japan must be undone," and argued "the defanging of Germany was an overcorrection for which Europe is now paying a heavy price."

The Palantir CEO is also critical of the way Europe is spending its massive defense budget.

"When I look at spending in Europe, I get really worried that there's too much going to be distributed by people who have no idea how to spend it," Karp said. "And that's going to create entrenched interests of people producing suboptimal, non-workable tech that are politically strong. And then it's really hard to take it out."

In his view, this was precisely one of Ukraine's key advantages: "And one of the big advantages Ukraine has: They had nothing."

This story originally ran in BILD and appears on Business Insider through the Axel Springer Global Reporters Network. The network publishes major stories from the Axel Springer network of publications, a worldwide group of news outlets that includes Business Insider.

• Palantir Technologies has ranked among the most sold stocks among retail traders in May.
• The stock has persistently been among the retail cohort's favorites.
• But data from JPMorgan shows that they are shifting focus away from software as the pile into chips.

Retail traders are shedding some of their holdings of an old favorite in a broader shift from some big-name software stocks.

JPMorgan data shows that individual investors have been trimming their exposure to software stocks, chief among them Palantir Technologies.

The high-growth AI name has been popular among retail for a long time, even as the stock has battled high volatility and doubts from some Wall Street analyst. It has consistently ranked among the most discussed stocks on investing forums, with entire Subreddits dedicated to it. The firm's very quotable, animated CEO, Alex Karp, has ranked among the heroes of retail investing circles.

Yet, Palantir shares are down by about 20% year to date, and recent data suggests that retail sentiment has cooled traders push toward hotter corners of the AI trade.

As analyst Arun Jain noted, retail traders were net sellers of Palantir in the week through May 13, dumping $82 million worth of shares. They also offloaded $117 million of Microsoft stock, the bank said.

So, where are the day traders flocking instead?

While data shows Palantir and other software stocks may be out of the limelight for now, other stats point to major bullishness for semiconductor and memory stocks.

Jain added that retail investors have been loading up on the VanEck Semiconductor ETF and iShares Semiconductor ETF, up 60% and 75% year-to-date respectively.

Meanwhile, the Roundhill Memory ETF which trades under the symbol DRAM, continues to surge in popularity, maintaining its status as one of the hottest thematic trades in the post-COVID era. Shares of the ETF are up more than 90% since it launched on April 2.

High-profile market pros have expressed concerns about Palantir's valuation. "The Big Short" investor Michael Burry has been bearish. Short-seller Andrew Left has also come out against the stock, calling its valuation "absurd" earlier this year.

The 70th Eurovision Song Contest is underway, this time taking performers to Vienna. We've compiled everything you need to know about where to watch Eurovision, including free and global streaming options.

If you don't want to scroll any further, you can live stream Eurovision on Peacock or YouTube in the US, BBC iPlayer in the UK, France.TV in France, and YouTube in several non-participating regions. If you're away from the location where your streaming service works, you can still tune in with a VPN, like NordVPN. Below, you can find additional worldwide streaming options and info about the event.

Where to watch Eurovision for free

It's good news for Eurovision fans this year. The competition is available to live stream for free in most regions. Most participating countries have broadcast agreements with free-to-air broadcasters (and their accompanying streaming services).

In the UK, that's the BBC and BBC iPlayer. In France, that's France.TV. In Italy, coverage will be available through RAI. Australia will offer free coverage through SBS. Even some non-participating countries have free options. The United States will continue with its usual paid Peacock option, but this year, Eurovision will also be available for free on YouTube in the US. Most other non-participating countries will allow people to live stream the competition for free on YouTube as well.

How to watch Eurovision from anywhere

There's a good chance you'll be able to access Eurovision no matter what, but if you find yourself traveling through a region where you can't access any watch options, it might be time to try out a VPN. Short for virtual private networks, VPNs let people temporarily alter their digital locations so that their favorite websites and apps work from anywhere. They're especially popular among those looking to keep up with their usual services while traveling abroad or upgrade their day-to-day cybersecurity.

NordVPN is one of the best VPNs on the market. It's fast, user-friendly (even for beginners), and has a 30-day money-back guarantee if you find that it's not what you're looking for.

Where is Eurovision 2026?

Eurovision 2026 is held at Wiener Stadthalle in Vienna, Austria. This marks Austria's third time hosting the Eurovision Song Contest.

Where will Eurovision take place next year?

There's no word yet on who will host Eurovision in 2027. Typically, the next Eurovision is held in the home country of the previous year's winner. Sometimes, another country (often the runner-up) will host if the winner is unable to.

Which countries are performing at each semifinal?

The first semifinal running order was Moldova, Sweden, Croatia, Greece, Portugal, Georgia, Italy, Finland, Montenegro, Estonia, Israel, Germany, Belgium, Lithuania, San Marino, Poland, and Serbia.

The second semifinal running order is Bulgaria, Azerbaijan, Romania, Luxembourg, Czechia, France, Armenia, Switzerland, Cyprus, Austria, Latvia, Denmark, Australia, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Albania, Malta, and Norway.

Which countries advanced from the first semi-final?

Greece, Finland, Belgium, Sweden, Moldova, Israel, Serbia, Croatia, Lithuania, and Poland were the 10 regions to advance from the first semifinal. 10 more countries will advance from the second semifinal. Austria, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom are among the regions that automatically advance to the Grand Final.

Note: VPN use is illegal in certain countries, and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content may constitute a breach of the terms of use for some services. Business Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.

• Natalie Tucker worried how her mom, without savings and on Social Security, could afford elder care.
• Carers cost up to $38 an hour in her area, and the price of assisted living was prohibitive.
• Tucker was delighted to find an adult program that offered free medical and day care.

This story is based on an interview with Natalie Tucker, 54, director of communications and development at a church, who splits her time between New Jersey and Maryland. She also works as an actor and voiceover artist. It has been edited for length and clarity.

In the Spring of 2025, my 75-year-old mom fell a total of four times over six weeks at her apartment in an independent living community in northern Virginia.

She spent hours on the floor before she was found and received help. Her dignity suffered, especially when she had to be lifted to her feet by emergency responders.

It was heartbreaking, and I worried so much, especially because I split my time between Maryland, close to where she lives, and New Jersey, about four hours away, because of my job.

Mom would forget to take her medication

Mom, who had undergone two strokes during the pandemic, was losing her memory. She'd often forget she'd taken her pills.

Perhaps it was pride, but Mom showed good coping skills when I took her to the county social services for an assessment last year.

I knew she needed help, but they said she didn't qualify for anything because she'd followed their instructions, like standing up and sitting down on her own.

Then, on March 3, 2026, she had another fall. She wasn't wearing her medical alert and couldn't reach her phone or the emergency cord for hours.

I wound up sleeping on her couch for three weeks, working remotely. I'd be sitting in an important Zoom meeting while Mom was sitting on her bed, struggling to get dressed.

It was like living with a toddler all over again. I never cried in front of her, but I'd walk around the block to get some air, tears in my eyes.

In-home care services were expensive

I called social services again, but they couldn't see her until the end of April. Then I looked into assisted living, which was private pay, and cost between $3,000 and $5,000 a month.

Mom, a retired cashier who had no savings or retirement fund, received a Social Security payment of $994 a month. Her rent was subsidized at a monthly rate of $280 because she was classified as low-income.

I didn't know how on earth she would afford assisted living, but I got another shock when I inquired about in-home services. A health aide for companion care costs between $34 and $38 per hour in her area, with a minimum of four hours per day.

One weekend, when I had to return to New Jersey, the cover cost $780.

Then a friend told me about Cherry Blossom PACE, which stands for Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly.

It helps "nursing home eligible" people, like my mom, stay in their existing homes by providing services such as adult day care, doctors, medications, physical therapy, social workers, and nutritional advice.

Mom received Medicaid

It also includes transportation to and from the day center and home-based services, such as daily meals.

Mom had an assessment and qualified for the program. She also received Medicaid, which meant her co-pays were zero.

Mom began the program at the beginning of May. She loved the adult day care, where they have lunch and do activities like word-finding and coloring.

On her second day, she was awake from 6 a.m., got dressed, and put on her makeup well before the bus picked her up.

She proudly packed her little bag with apple juice, apple sauce, a comb, a brush, Polident, a book, a nail clipper, tissues, an eye glass case, and hand sanitizer.

The program has given us a huge sense of relief

She has on-site occupational and physical therapy and was provided with a free home medical alert system.

This new system of care has been a huge relief, both financially and emotionally. Of course, we don't know what the future holds for Mom, but our family feels so blessed.

• I always thought college would be the happiest years of my life, but I actually felt lonely.
• I largely blame social media because I often notice my friends hanging out without me.
• Social media also made all friendships on my college campus impersonal.

Growing up, when I pictured college, I imagined Friday nights straight out of Katy Perry's "TGIF" music video, freshman year roommates who'd become bridesmaids, and hot dates every Saturday night.

As a now graduating senior, I can say that instead of the happiest four years of my life, they've been the loneliest.

It's not because I didn't go out, join clubs, or make friends. I'm extroverted, heavily involved in extracurriculars, and take advantage of every opportunity I can.

I just found modern college culture isolating.

Social media and technology have made me feel lonely

It started long before the first day of college with a "Class of 2026 Freshman" social media account where incoming students could post photos and captions. By the time I found it, school had started, and it seemed like everyone already knew each other. It wasn't true, but I already felt left behind.

I never thought I'd be emotionally affected by social media, and I'm not influenced the way older adults in my life think. I don't care what the Kardashians are doing, and I don't feel compelled to hop on the next celebrity trend. It's the smaller aspects of social media that affect me.

I could have a picture-perfect Saturday. I'll work out, do homework in the Southern California sunshine, and have plans with friends in the evening. A day like that is a dream life. But then I'll open Instagram and see a group of my friends at the beach. Suddenly, my perfect day turns into Should I have gone to the beach? Why wasn't I invited? Was everyone at the beach?

People have felt lonely forever — it's part of the human condition — but with modern technology, we know too much.

For example, I recently discovered my friends were hanging out without me because we share our locations on Find My Friends. If we didn't share that information, I wouldn't have known, and my feelings wouldn't have been hurt.

College friendships don't feel intimate or personal

One of my best college friends just landed her dream postgrad job. I found out via LinkedIn, not by phone.

It made me realize that my relationships were happening online instead of in person.

Technology allows us to relax in our relationships. I don't need to attend the birthday party; I can just send a text. Why call a friend about a vacation when I already saw the Instagram highlight reel?

Likewise, at my college, everyone uses an app to throw parties. You can easily invite hundreds of people — friends, acquaintances, strangers — with the press of a button. It sends the invite with a yes, no, or maybe — removing all interaction between host and guest. When my phone pings with an invite, it doesn't feel like a person exists on the other end.

That's the problem: relationships on my college campuses don't feel personal to me.

When everyone is always accessible, connection becomes an illusion that replaces genuine friendship. True friendship is more than commenting on posts and catching up on texts; it's a commitment to share life's good, bad, and ugly moments with intention, not an Instagram like.

I was determined to save my last semester

This year, I call people out of the blue. I ask for photos beyond the curated Instagram dump. I say yes every time I'm invited, and I make my own plans when I don't get invitations.

My plan is working. On my first day of class, I sat near a girl I'd seen around but didn't know. When the lecture was over, I asked her about her plans for the rest of the day. Then I did the scary thing: I said I was going to dance class and asked if she'd like to come. Now we go together every week. Real friends take real effort. It's taking a risk.

Life is a long dance, sometimes with a partner, sometimes with a group, and sometimes just freestyling solo, but I've learned that if I don't dance at all, no one will ever join me.

While my first three and a half years of college might have been the loneliest years of my life, I changed that in my last four months — one dance, one phone call, and one step outside the screen at a time.

• Citrini Research, the firm behind the viral AI scenario that rattled markets, is bullish on Wolfspeed.
• It sees the chipmaker as a winning trade given its niche in the AI supply chain.
• Citrini analysts think the forces that once pushed Wolfspeed toward bankruptcy are shifting rapidly.

Citrini Research may have some bearish views on what AI will do to markets and the economy down the road, but it's still betting on the technology in the near-term.

The market research firm sent the stock market into a brief panic earlier this year when it shared a doomsday prediction in which the rise of AI leads to widespread job losses and a stock market crash.

But a new report from the firm highlights its bullish take on chipmaker Wolfspeed as a likely winner of the new phase of the AI boom.

"WOLF is a crouching tiger getting ready to reveal a dragon that deserves to not just be priced based on what their fab's replacement value theoretically is, but reflect the fact that it's not going to be replaced. By anyone," Citrini wrote. "They're the only game in town."

Wolfspeed stock surged by as much as 20% on Wednesday following the report and was up another 13% on Thursday. The fresh momentum takes its year-to-date gains to more than 270%.

Citrini's bullish thesis on Wolfspeed centers around its "crouching tiger setup," which shows a company being built ahead of demand for its product. The company exited a prior bankruptcy, buoyed by the same forces that once sank it.

"Wolfspeed is the platonic ideal — not only did they spend aggressively to ramp capacity into demand that failed to materialize, they did it so hard that it bankrupted their company," the report noted.

The company carved out a niche as a producer of silicon carbide (SiC) technology, a material used in semiconductors. It staked a significant bet on electric vehicle adoption, investing millions in manufacturing facilities, only to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in June 2025, citing the need to restructure its debt.

Three months later, Wolfspeed announced that it had successfully completed its financial restructuring process, sending shares soaring. In Citrini's view, the company is in an ideal position as the AI boom will likely spike demand for the materials it produces.

"The same property that made SiC useful at the edges of a data center (absurd thermal conductivity) makes it a candidate to receive an invitation much closer to the silicon itself," Citrini noted.

Citrini sees Wolfspeed as a key player in the AI supply chain, as it is one of the only companies producing SiC technology and has the capacity to meet the coming demand.

"The capex looked (and was) value destructive in 2023," Citrini noted. "By 2027, it will look like one of the most prescient infrastructure bets in the wide-bandgap industry. The market is beginning to price this as a turnaround — we think it should be priced as an unavoidable beneficiary."

• At 50, I left my career in the US and retired to Mexico. The first year abroad was challenging.
• I made a mistake committing to a rental before testing out a neighborhood and speaking to locals.
• I also learned a lot about working with exchange rates and budgeting for unexpected costs.

When I turned 50, I wanted to retire from my career as a pharmacist and move abroad.

The high cost of living in the US made an early retirement there feel impossible for me, but it seemed within reach with strong financial investments and a strategic move.

Mexico was my chosen retirement destination because it's generally more affordable than the US and close to San Francisco, where my family lives.

From there, I settled on Ajijic, Jalisco, a popular Pueblo Mágico (a "magic town" deemed to have cultural, architectural, or historical significance in the country) on the shores of Lake Chapala, known for its pleasant weather and vibrant culture.

Sorting, selling, and donating my belongings was exhausting, but getting a visa appointment at the Mexican Consulate in San Francisco proved harder.

After weeks of calling the appointment line to no avail, I hired an immigration facilitator who told me the earliest appointment available was at the consulate in Laredo, Texas.

After booking several flights, dealing with cancellations, and driving overnight, I made it to an appointment down South and secured my visa by the end of 2022.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, this was the first of many obstacles I'd encounter as a new expat abroad.

From the start, I made several mistakes when securing my housing

I arrived in Ajijic, Jalisco, during the peak rental season, when northern "snowbirds" travel south for the colder months. So, the rental market was especially competitive.

Before the move, I had pictured living in a traditional Mexican-style house with high bóveda (vault) ceilings and an interior courtyard full of greenery. Although I checked real-estate companies' websites daily, nothing came close to what I had in mind.

When I finally saw a lovely house on Facebook, I immediately called the real-estate agent and planned a visit. It looked even more beautiful in person.

Afraid to miss out on this opportunity to live my dream retirement, I agreed to prepay a full year's rent plus a security deposit. Soon, I realized several downsides of living there.

The home was in a neighborhood where loud block parties often went late into the night. After sleepless nights, a security scare, and a gas leak on the property, I'd had enough. I broke the lease and received only a partial refund of my prepaid rent.

This costly lesson made me realize I should've tested out the neighborhood first by staying in a hotel or Airbnb nearby and getting familiar with the area before locking myself into a lease. I'd let my rosy ideal carry me away, and prepaying rent left me with no leverage when things went wrong.

After a few months, I started looking to buy property because I wanted more control of my living situation. Plus, Ajijic has long been a popular destination for expat retirees, so it seemed like a good investment.

By then, I knew the area better and purchased a house in a quiet neighborhood that suited my needs.

Exchange-rate fluctuations and unexpected expenses put my budget to the test

Before my move, I'd calculated a monthly budget that would make my early retirement sustainable for several years.

However, I hadn't factored in how much this budget would be impacted by exchange rates.

When I first arrived in January 2023, the exchange rate was about 19 pesos per dollar. By mid-July, it had dropped to below 17. Although my spending in pesos didn't change, my living costs in dollars rose.

The fluctuating exchange rate magnified my expenses and pushed me over budget. Watching my plan falter rattled my confidence in those first months.

Initially, I used my Charles Schwab debit card to withdraw money from ATMs, since the card reimburses ATM fees. Still, the exchange rates weren't good, and Mexican bank rates were worse.

A few months later, I learned about Wise, a service that offers low-cost international money transfers at the mid-market rate. I set alerts to move money whenever the rate hits certain levels, giving me more control over my cash flow.

Unexpected expenses also threw several wrenches into my detailed financial plan. For example, I made two trips home to San Francisco in the first six months for family emergencies.

While in Mexico, I'd anticipated keeping my transportation costs low by using the local bus system. However, the stops weren't always clearly marked, and I was still learning my way around. In the early days, I often relied on pricier taxis for my trips into nearby towns because of the language barrier and my unfamiliarity with the area.

I also discovered the "gringo tax." Being an Asian woman speaking broken Spanish, I was instantly recognizable as a foreigner.

Since I didn't yet know the going rate for products and services in town, I often overpaid. For example, one vendor charged me different prices every time I shopped at his store. Another time, I paid 150 pesos for honey from a market vendor and later heard him charge a local customer 120 pesos for the same item.

Now that I've been here three years, I have a better sense of what things should cost, and my Spanish isn't as rusty. However, those small expenses really added up in those first few months.

That challenging first year abroad helped me build a clearer strategy moving forward

My first year as an expat abroad was a disorienting experience full of rookie mistakes and unexpected expenses that taught me to research carefully and stay flexible.

Through conversations with fellow expats and locals, I gradually discovered the best-priced shops and reputable service providers, and gained a deeper understanding of the local culture.

Looking back, I think of "Year One" as my training ground, when I spent more, slept less, and learned fast. Once I found my bearings, I developed a sustainable retirement strategy.

Now, three years later, I wake up to bird calls, ready for each new day with clear expectations and a solid financial footing.

• Burberry scarves are having a moment.
• The company said this has become a pivotal area of its business.
• The return of preppy clothing and the scarves' more accessible price point are luring shoppers.

Burberry's scarf game is red hot right now.

The British luxury brand reported its preliminary results for the year ending March 28 on Thursday, touting strong sales in its scarves category, which were up double digits.

During a call with investors after reporting earnings, its CEO, Joshua Schulman, described scarves as a "hero category" for the brand.

Its assortment ranges from $275 for a skinny silk scarf in various iterations of its signature check to over $1,000 for its cashmere check scarves. Larger cashmere capes cost over $1,400.

Schulman said during the call that Burberry is now expanding its silk scarf assortment to build out its year-round offering.

"We see a significant runway of growth and opportunity in all of these categories," he added.

Burberry has undergone a major turnaround effort under Schulman's leadership since he took over in 2024. Schulman has lowered prices, refocused on Burberry's iconic products, and overhauled its marketing to double down on its British heritage.

Same-store sales were up 5% during the fourth quarter and 2% for the fiscal year. Its stock price fell 7% in London on Thursday after the company issued a more cautious outlook for the year ahead.

The 'Love Story' effect

For younger consumers with less disposable cash, $275 for a scarf might be seen as a more accessible luxury purchase.

Schulman said scarves have been "pivotal" for bringing Gen Z into the brand for that very reason.

Burberry is also benefiting from the comeback of the preppy look, which went into turbo drive at the start of the year when FX's "Love Story" series, chronicling the relationship between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, premiered. The duo became the ultimate 1990s minimalist and New England aesthetic style icons.

The trusty neckerchief and triangular headscarf feature prominently throughout the show as key accessories for Bessette-Kennedy. Last month, Vogue called out the silk scarf as a "fashion-girl summer" essential.

"Love Story" has been seen as a major driver behind this year's fashion trends. Calvin Klein, the brand where Bessette-Kennedy worked as a PR director and that is featured heavily in the show, got a boost. Per fashion search platform Lyst, Calvin Klein saw a 43% week-on-week lift following the finale. While searches for black turtleneck knits, part of Bessette-Kennedy's signature look, rose 217% after the first episode.

Burberry's scarf push predates the "Love Story" frenzy. The brand has been putting its new "scarf bars" — a display of immaculately organized scarves and a type-A shopper's paradise — front and center in its stores.

It has over 200 of these bars across its more than 400 stores and has bought the concept to department and airport stores as pop-ups.

The scarves also fit neatly into its big push to focus on its Britishness. Schulmer said its newer collections were inspired by the ultimate British icon: Queen Elizabeth II.

• Nvidia stock is trading at an all-time high, but one firm thinks problems in China point to a downturn.
• Culper Research unveiled a short on Nvidia stock late Wednesday as shares hit an all-time high.
• The report comes as Nvidia CEO is in China with US President Donald Trump for the US-China summit.

Nvidia stock is trading at record highs, but one short-seller unveiled its bullish bet against the chipmaker and its short position on the stock.

Culper Research, an activist short-focused research firm, unveiled its short position in Nvidia and outlined its bearish outlook for the stock. The 40 page report titled, "The China Problem," claims that part of Nvidia's recent massive revenue growth has been driven by China sales despite the company saying it had exited the country.

"Nvidia claims that its business in China went to 'zero' after April 2025 U.S. trade restrictions. We believe that in reality, over 20% of Nvidia's FY 2026 compute revenues remained driven by China — supported both by illegal GPU diversion and Southeast Asian intermediaries," the short-seller said.

However, more relevant for investors may be Culper's prediction that China is on the verge of "cutting out" Nvidia at a time when many analysts are highly bullish about the chip maker's return to the market. Wells Fargo wrote in March, for instance, that China could drive $25 billion per year of revenue for Nvidia.

"We think it's the exact opposite. As Nvidia never truly left China and Beijing now clamps down on the Company in favor of domestic alternatives, China represents a massive air gap to Nvidia's FY 2027 / CY 2026 numbers," the firm wrote.

To back up its view, Culper cited a handful of recent developments that suggest China prefers to foster domestic chip production, including regulatory action against Nvidia in 2025, and a quote from White House tech advisor David Sacks in December stating China is "rejecting our chips."

"We believe Nvidia is now actually losing the business that Jensen claimed the Company lost a year ago," the short report reads.

Culper's report was released while Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang was in Beijing for the US-China summit with US President Trump.

Huang, along with Elon Musk, Tesla CEO and former DOGE head, flew to China on Air Force Once with Trump.

Nvidia stock is trading at record highs, with investors seemingly unfazed by the short-seller's claims and reading Huang's presence in China as a positive sign.

"We recognize the stakes. Nvidia holds the single largest market capitalization on the planet, while CEO Jensen Huang has been celebrated as a generationally talented operator," Culper said, adding "This is not a bet against AI. We are short Nvidia for one reason: the Company has a significant China problem."

Culper said that Nvidia has continued to indirectly supply China despite US export restrictions through entities tied to Alibaba diverting its products. These include Singapore-based Megaspeed and Apex, as well as Malaysian Speedmatrix and Taiwan's Giga Computing.

Nvidia and Alibaba did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for comment.

"We've chased down every single concern. And we've repeatedly tested and sampled data centers around the world and found no diversion," Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said in a Bloomberg interview in late 2025.

The US government reported shutting down an illegal AI tech smuggling ring in late 2025, after with officials calling out some of the companies named in the Culper report to be investigated. Super Micro Computer, for instance, was caught up in a chip smuggling operation earlier this year.

• PitchBook CPO Paul Jaeschke said that Big Tech layoffs have benefited the company.
• PitchBook has hired "a lot" in roles that were difficult to fill, like machine learning engineers, he said.
• The CPO said the company allows workers ownership and speed, which has helped with recruiting.

Nobody likes seeing headlines about Big Tech layoffs, but some smaller companies are taking advantage of access to a fresh pool of top-tier talent.

Paul Jaeschke, chief product officer at PitchBook, told Business Insider that the private-market data platform was "definitely a beneficiary" of recent cuts across the industry.

Amazon let go of 16,000 employees in January from its corporate workforce of roughly 350,000. Meta, which employs about 78,000 people globally, is also planning to reduce its headcount by 10% this month.

While those cuts represent a relatively small share of each company's workforce, in tech hubs like Seattle, they could translate into thousands of highly skilled workers re-entering the job market. Plenty of other smaller tech companies, such as Block and Atlassian, have made recent reductions, often citing the impact of AI.

PitchBook has also eliminated a few positions due to AI, the CPO said, specifically "product owner" roles. Jaeschke said the role helped translate requirements to engineering teams. The CPO said AI tools made those tasks more efficient. The company said the eliminated roles were a small percentage of its workforce, and half stayed at PitchBook and moved into product manager roles. PitchBook has a headcount of over 3,000 staff. Nearly 600 of them work in its Seattle headquarters.

For companies like PitchBook, tech layoffs create a rare hiring opportunity. Jaeschke said many PitchBook employees, himself included, come from Amazon, as well as Microsoft, Google, eBay, and other large tech firms. He said there's been more interest lately from Big Tech employees, and that the firm has been successful in recruiting those candidates.

"We've really been able to hire a lot of people — a lot of great people — that in the past we might have had a tougher time hiring," Jaeschke said.

He said that smaller companies like PitchBook can offer an appealing alternative to Big Tech by offering a faster pace of work, giving employees more ownership over projects, and providing access to multiple AI tools including Claude, OpenAI, LangChain, rather than requiring use of internal tools.

Jaeschke said recent hires from Amazon were excited to use a range of AI tools when they were brought on. Amazon recently rolled out Claude Code and Open AI's Codex to corporate employees, expanding beyond its internal AI tool, Kiro. The tech giant continues to promote its in-house tool, but no longer requires separate approvals to officially use the other models.

The recent wave of layoffs has made top candidates more accessible, the CPO said, especially in highly in-demand roles, like machine learning engineers.

Hiring for these positions was more challenging previously, Jaesche said, but the company has had "a lot more traction over the last 12 to 18 months." A PitchBook spokesperson told Business Insider that in the last two years, the company has more than quadrupled the size of its machine learning team. This year, it has hired 10 machine learning engineers and continues to grow the team, the spokesperson added.

Correction: May 14, 2026 — An earlier version of this story misstated Jaeschke's title. He is chief product officer at PitchBook.

• BCG is training an AI agent on the best behaviors and interactions of its clients' salespeople.
• It's also training it on their worst behaviors and interactions.
• Many companies are remaking their org charts using AI agents trained on their human workers.

There's a lot of public concern that an AI will someday go off the rails and annihilate humanity.

So it may be a little surprising that Boston Consulting Group is training its customer-facing AI agent, Jamie, on what not to do.

Japjit Ghai, a managing director and partner at BCG X, the firm's tech build-and-design division, said on a recent episode of the company's podcast that Jamie is learning from both the best — and worst — customer service behaviors of its clients' salespeople.

"We trained the agent by studying the best sellers — their call transcripts, how they engage with customers — and teaching Jamie to do the same," he said.

"We also trained Jamie not to replicate the worst seller experiences."

BCG trains Jamie using data its clients share with it to analyze customer service calls, as well as its own internal research, a client's knowledge of its business, and a company's existing sales calls and transcripts, Ghai later told Business Insider in an interview.

Those recordings and transcripts are a "repository of often underleveraged assets," Ghai said, that BCG can use to identify "what good looks like." The goal is not to mimic one individual seller, he said, but to use historical patterns to understand which behaviors and ways of engaging with customers "tend to resonate better."

Jamie is also trained to identify behaviors that "did not resonate." BCG can then use those lessons for targeted coaching and development. After a call, he said, a seller could get a personalized scorecard from Jamie showing what they did well and where they fell short, based on how they navigated the conversation.

Ghai said the system is designed to improve over time. Each conversation creates more data that can be used to train future conversations, he said, making Jamie an "always on muscle" that learns from the best individual behaviors rather than simply copying the best individual sellers.

BCG isn't the only company to use its top talent for training purposes.

At Vercel, a cloud-based platform for developers to build and deploy websites and applications, agents have also been trained on their best employees. Last year, the company modeled an AI agent after its best sales development representative and ultimately downsized its 10-person team to one person overseeing the agent.

"Modeling after the top-performing employees has always been a standard business practice. The difference now is that technology lets us accelerate it," David Totten, Vercel's vice president of global field engineering, told Business Insider in October.

Do you work in consulting and have a story to share? Email Lakshmi Varanasi at lvaranasi@businessinsider.com from a non-work email and device or contact her on Signal at lvaranasi.70.

Correction, May 14, 2026 — This story has been updated to reflect that BCG trained the AI agent on data provided by its clients about customer service interactions.

• I ate vegetables every day for a month to see if it was doable and how it would make me feel. 
• Once I learned creative ways to sneak veggies into meals, this challenge got even easier.
• By the end, I had noticed both physical and mental benefits of eating veggies each day.

We've all heard that we should eat more vegetables, yet the CDC estimates only 1 in 10 US-based adults actually meet the daily recommended serving.

Even as a vegetable lover, I struggle to eat them as often as I'd like, usually settling for the lettuce on a sandwich or shredded carrot in takeout sushi. 

As part of my personal commitment to forming good habits, I challenged myself to incorporate vegetables into at least one meal per day for four weeks.

Here's how it went and what I learned.

Before starting, I consulted with dietitians to make a plan and chat about possible benefits

Going from occasionally enjoying vegetables to eating them every day seemed like a daunting task — I couldn't tell you the last time I ate veggies for more than four consecutive days.

So, I consulted with a few experts before making this major dietary change.

Although I wasn't necessarily worried about increasing my vitamin and mineral intake, I was concerned that the change could cause unpleasant physical symptoms.

For example, eating excessive amounts of legumes, onions, and other high-fiber vegetables can trigger gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and abdominal pain. 

When I spoke to registered dietitian and cookbook author Lizzie Streit, she said I shouldn't be too concerned since most people aren't meeting their daily fiber needs to begin with.

"Overall, as long as you're varying your vegetable intake and trying to keep it to moderate amounts that make up just about half of your plate at meals, it probably shouldn't be an issue," she said.

Diana Savani, registered dietitian and creator of Savani Wellness, expressed a similar view and said that any potential discomfort I may experience during my challenge would likely be temporary.

Still, Savani reminded me, "Everybody's body is different and reacts differently to different diet patterns.

Either way, both of them suggested I stay hydrated to minimize any potential side effects.

They also made it clear that this way of eating can have many perks. 

For example, regularly consuming a wide variety of vegetables is said to potentially reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers, plus improve digestive issues. Savani said it's even possible to experience positive changes after just a few weeks of eating vegetables every day.

Streit told me the standard recommendation is 2 ½ cups of vegetables per day for a 2,000-calorie diet, and this could go up to 4 cups depending on one's food intake and activity levels. 

I'm not used to tracking and measuring my food, so Savani and Streit recommended I just try filling half my plate with vegetables at meals.

Week 1: I stocked up on a variety of fresh, frozen, and canned veggies, but kept things simple

My typical produce haul generally consists of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and avocados — all the ingredients for a standard house salad and really good avocado toast.

Although each of those has its own micronutrients, both experts said I should diversify my meals to get the most benefits possible.

"One helpful technique for people starting out is to make it a goal to try one new vegetable a week or two new vegetables a week," Streit told me. "Over time, you can start to branch out and see which vegetables work best for you." 

I kept Streit's advice in mind during my trip to the store as I filled my cart with a melange of different veggies: red and yellow tomatoes (a fruit, but widely considered a vegetable by nutritionists), an assortment of salad greens, mushrooms (a fungi, but also widely considered a vegetable by nutritionists), Broccolini, and sweet potatoes.

I also picked up several bags of frozen carrots and broccoli so I'd have more flexibility with my meal planning. I wouldn't have to worry about them spoiling anytime soon.

Plus, Streit said, frozen vegetables are as nutritious as fresh ones, since they're picked at peak ripeness.

At first, my meals weren't partciularly groundbreaking

If I were going to stick to my commitment, it made the most sense to keep incorporating foods I already liked into my diet.

So, for the first few days, I stuck to making salads and paired them with other foods like pasta and sandwiches. Each time, I made sure the vegetables took up at least half of my plate, as the experts advised.

Although this worked fine for the first few days, I was ready to try something new by the middle of the week.

So, I made a flatbread with a premade Trader Joe's pizza crust and topped it with tomatoes, red peppers, and mushrooms. I enjoyed a salad on the side for some extra greens.

On Thursday, I sautéed the mushrooms I had leftover from my pizza with some Broccolini, olive oil, garlic, and a shallot for a light lunch, finishing the combo off with a squeeze of lemon. 

The added kick of garlic and citrus let the Broccolini's natural flavors shine without any extra butter or sauce. Plus, my body felt nourished after eating it, and I wasn't hungry until dinnertime.

Another standout meal was my vegetable chili, which I made with red pepper, sweet potato, onion, garlic, tomato, jalapeño, beans, and corn.

This meal was so filling and tasty that I nearly forgot it was made almost entirely of vegetables. It tasted even better the next day as the sweet potatoes absorbed the yummy, spicy flavor.

By the end of the first week, I felt proud of myself for actually sticking to my commitment.

I'm such a creature of habit, so I thought I'd revert to eating bagels and frozen chicken nuggets by day five. However, as I savored the last bite of my delicious veggie chili, I felt pretty confident I could keep going.

Week 2: I found more ways to enjoy vegetables at breakfast and in hearty meals

During week two, I focused on finding more creative ways to incorporate veggies into my diet.

Savani suggested I try mixing vegetables with eggs for breakfast. So, I added broccoli to an egg scramble with some feta, garlic, tomato, and onions.

This veggie-packed breakfast kept me full for hours.

Another strategy I considered to keep my momentum was using veggies as a creative way to substitute for carbs or meat.

I made a burger with a black-bean patty instead of a turkey one, and later sautéed sliced portobello mushrooms with garlic and jalapeño as a taco filling.

These tacos would've tasted great with beef or chicken, but the mushrooms and kale were satisfying on their own — especially topped with a tasty avocado cream.

Although I'm technically not a vegetarian, I've been wanting to minimize my meat consumption and use more plant-based sources of protein, so this challenge was helping me do just that.

One evening, I didn't feel like turning on the stove or oven, so I made a cold, roasted-beet salad using pre-roasted beets and a premade spring salad mix to save time.

By adding burrata and a tasty orange-balsamic dressing, this simple mix of vegetables became a dish I could see myself ordering at a restaurant.

It was proof that a little creativity can go a long way, especially when it comes to salads.

I also made vegetable minestrone soup when the forecast called for several days of rain. With common ingredients like veggie broth, onions, carrots, and garbanzo beans, this meal required minimal effort and was super hearty and delicious.

Since I could prepare a big batch to eat over the following few days, this dish ended up as one of my favorites this week.

By the time I reached the third week, I was feeling more motivated all around

After two weeks of consistently eating vegetables and staying super hydrated, my digestion had significantly improved — and I felt more motivated to stay active.

I wasn't sure whether the latter came from my increased nutrient intake or from the excitement that my new habit was having a positive impact on me.

I was also snacking a lot less than usual, particularly on the days that I ate vegetables with breakfast.

Prior to this challenge, my eating patterns felt so erratic. I'd often start my week by eating grab-and-go salads from the grocery store for lunch, then spend the rest of it ordering heavily processed takeout meals.

Some days, I'd snack on chips, dips, and other sweets to the point that I wouldn't bother making a proper dinner.

Although there's nothing wrong with enjoying any of those foods, this inconsistent eating pattern wasn't working for me, as I often felt sluggish and bloated.

Now that I was regularly eating vegetables with my meals, I found it much easier to stick to a routine. I still craved and enjoyed my favorite salty snacks and pastries, but I definitely wasn't reaching for them as often as I would've before this challenge.

Week 3: I finally nailed making vegetables taste like something I actually wanted to eat

Finding the best ways to enhance the taste of veggies required some prep work, like consulting recipe blogs for ideas, but it was well worth the effort because my meals were much more satisfying.

Cooking with seasonings like dried oregano and thyme made vegetables taste the best, but even simply adding chopped garlic made a huge difference.

To kick off this week, I assembled vegetable burritos to keep in the fridge for when I didn't feel like cooking. Each contained a medley of spicy black beans, zucchini, yellow squash, and cheese.

I wanted to experiment with something new, so I picked up eggplant (again, technically a fruit but widely classified as a vegetable by nutritionists). 

In the past, I'd avoided eggplant because I didn't really know what to do with it since it's quite delicate — if you overcook it even slightly, the flesh turns into a soggy mush.

However, after experimenting with a few different recipes, I learned it's actually a very versatile produce. 

I made a scrumptious flatbread with lemon, roasted eggplant, and feta. The combination of citrus and the eggplant's nuttiness, paired with a thin, flaky crust, was absolutely exquisite and reminded me of springtime.

Inspired by a bruschetta recipe I found online, I made dinner easy for myself and topped slices of eggplant with a ready-made Trader Joe's sauce I had on hand.

These bites were the perfect appetizer to my herbed chicken and were so filling that I ate less of the main course.

For one of my simpler meals this week, I tossed carrots with olive oil, garlic, and dried thyme, then roasted them until tender. I served them over a bowl of mixed greens with onions and goat cheese.

Although it didn't look that impressive, it was such an easy and satisfying meal.

By the fourth week, this didn't really feel like a challenge anymore

If I had learned anything from participating in this challenge so far, it was that cooking vegetables with herbs is the key to transforming them from "edible" to "good," regardless of how they're prepared.

Salt and olive oil are better than nothing, but a sprinkling of Italian seasoning and oregano seriously takes each veggie-packed dish to the next level. Some of my other go-to toppers were smoked paprika, garlic and chili powder, coriander, thyme, and basil.

Also, a bit of lemon zest or a squeeze of lime juice can easily add a bright, fresh taste to kale, oven-roasted vegetables, and other meals.

Prepping meals in advance made sticking to my commitment so much easier, and I was excited to tackle my final week of the experiment. 

I no longer felt like I was participating in a challenge but was simply eating food I actually liked that made me feel good.

Week 4: I had a blast with kale and cauliflower 

During the final week of the challenge, I made good use of my oven by roasting a mix of butternut squash, parsnips, carrots, and potatoes, which turned out so scrumptious that I ate them for dinner without any dressing or toppings.

Roasting can make pretty much any vegetable taste good since the natural sugars caramelize in the dry heat, resulting in a sweeter, toasted flavor. 

Honestly, I'm not sure how I got by before I learned how to cook vegetables this way, but I'm fairly certain I won't ever go back to steaming them again. 

I also made a delicious stew full of kale, carrots, and mushrooms, and a salad with kale and squash — both rich in fall flavors.

On Super Bowl Sunday, I experimented with making Buffalo cauliflower instead of ordering a platter of wings.

After breading the florets and roasting them in the oven, I tossed them in Buffalo sauce and served them with celery and herbed yogurt dip.

Final check-in: The results changed the way I felt physically and mentally

By the end of the four weeks, the benefits I experienced from eating vegetables every day seemed clear.

Throughout the month, having veggies with my meals made me feel full faster, which in turn kept me from overeating.

By the end, my stomach felt significantly less bloated, and my face appeared less puffy. I'm sure keeping my water intake up throughout the month, as the dietitians suggested, helped.

These results could also be attributed to the fact that this challenge encouraged me to cook at home rather than order sodium-rich takeout foods. Either way, I wasn't complaining.

On top of the physical benefits, regularly eating vegetables made me feel more motivated to stick to my other goals and make healthier choices.

I found myself making more of an effort to drink water and stay active, even if that meant just walking around my neighborhood.

Plus, I became more mindful of my overall eating habits and started paying attention to how certain foods made me feel. I still enjoyed my favorite sweets and decadent meals, but I was less likely to make them my default.

In the end, I was proud of myself for sticking to my commitment. I can't say for certain that I always met the daily recommended serving, but eating some form of vegetables every day for a month straight was a huge victory.

I experimented with great cooking techniques, found tasty recipes, and learned how to create wholesome meals that I genuinely loved by trying out foods I was less familiar with.

I'd recommend anyone looking to add more veggies to their diet try some of these techniques — even if they're starting small. As Savani and Streit put it, adding just one more vegetable to your diet a week can make a world of difference. 

This story was originally published on January 7, 2022, and most recently updated on May 14, 2026.

• As a longtime Costco employee, I always look forward to seeing the new items that arrive on shelves.
• This month, the warehouse is stocked with seasonal items like citronella candles and beach towels.
• There are also some delicious-looking Kirkland Signature grocery items and premade meals.

As a Costco employee of 20 years, I love being able to scan the shelves for all the best new items that come in.

This month, the warehouse is stocked with everything from outdoor essentials and beach-ready finds to delicious Kirkland Signature-branded products.

Here are eight items that caught my eye.

I'm excited to try the Kirkland Signature sparkling energy drinks.

One of my favorite things about shopping at Costco is that the store has a great selection of house-brand Kirkland Signature items, including sparkling energy drinks.

Each 12-ounce can contains 200 milligrams of caffeine, making them the perfect pick-me-up for a long day. The variety pack comes with three flavors, including tropical, orange, and peach.

I was excited to find the ELF Power Grip primer on display.

This month, Costco is carrying the popular ELF Power Grip primer, which is said to help makeup stay on longer. It also provides a dewy finish, giving skin a nice hydrated glow.

Each bundle comes with a full-size version of the product, as well as a travel-size container.

The Essenza citronella candles are both beautiful and practical.

Summer is just around the corner, which means outdoor gatherings will be popping up on my calendar again. Unfortunately, though, one of the downsides to spending time outside is fending off the bugs.

Luckily, the Essenza outdoor citronella candles are here to help. Each box comes with two large lemongrass-eucalyptus-scented candles in beautiful white cement containers.

Plus, each candle can burn for up to 43 hours, making these a worthy investment for the season.

Meal prep is simple with the Chipotle-seasoned chicken from Costco.

Whether you like to meal prep or are just looking for a quick dinner option, I recommend buying a pack of the precooked Chipotle-seasoned chicken from Costco.

It's great for salads, rice bowls, tacos, and so much more.

Elevate your workouts with the Nautilus weighted vest.

Whether you're going for a walk or doing exercises at the gym, a weighted vest can help make workouts more challenging.

The Nautilus vest weighs 12 pounds, and according to the packaging, can help increase the number of calories burned while exercising. It's also adjustable and comes with a storage pocket for your cell phone.

This 2-in-1 towel and tote bag makes beach days easy.

If you'll be heading to the beach or pool this summer, I highly recommend checking out the innovative Himatsingka America 2-in-1 towel and tote bags at Costco.

These 100% cotton bags easily fold out into a full-size beach towel. They're machine washable and come in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns.

There's been a lot of buzz surrounding the bakery's new sourdough bread bowls.

The Costco bakery has a new product that shoppers seem excited about: sourdough bread bowls.

Each bag comes with four bowls ready to be filled with soups, dips, chilli, and much more. I like to heat them in the air fryer for an even crispier texture.

The Kirkland Signature beef and broccoli looks delicious.

Costco is known for its great selection of premade meals, and the newest addition to the lineup is the beef and broccoli.

Each container comes with beef, broccoli, yakisoba noodles, and stir fry sauce, and is easy to heat up in a frying pan.

Costco was not involved in the sourcing or writing of this story. The views contained within represent the author's personal views.

This story was originally published on May 4, 2026, and most recently updated on May 14, 2026.

• My kids moved to big cities, but I'm not worried about their safety.
• I focused on teaching independence and awareness from a young age.
• That preparation now gives me confidence and trust in their decisions.

When my son moved to New York City five years ago, many people reacted with concern.

"Aren't you worried?" People asked. "I don't think I could handle that."

Now my daughter recently moved to Chicago, and I'm hearing it all over again.

Here's the truth — I'm not calm because nothing can happen. I'm calm because I spent years preparing them for real life instead of shielding them from it.

Independence didn't start when they moved out

My kids didn't suddenly become independent adults the day they left home. That foundation was laid much earlier, often in ways that made other parents uncomfortable.

When they were teenagers, I didn't hover at the airport. They carried their own travel documents. They went through TSA on their own. They learned how to ask questions, advocate for themselves, and solve small problems without me stepping in immediately.

It wasn't about pushing them too fast. It was about trusting them to learn.

Those moments that were awkward, imperfect, and sometimes uncomfortable were also intentional. Because adulthood doesn't come with training wheels.

Travel taught them awareness, not fear

My son played travel hockey for eleven years, which meant constant airports, hotels, rinks, and unfamiliar cities. Travel wasn't a special event in our family; it was our normal.

My daughter and I also started traveling to New York City together when she was only eight years old. Every year, the same routines: busy sidewalks, crowded subways, hailing cabs, navigating noise and movement, and city chaos.

We talked about situational awareness, not in a fear-based way, but in a practical one. Look up. Pay attention. Trust your gut. Know where you are. Ask for help when something feels off.

Cities didn't become something to be scared of. They became something to understand.

Confidence comes from repetition, not lectures

We didn't sit them down for long talks about "street smarts." We let them practice it.

They learned how to read a room. How to move with purpose. How to notice when something feels wrong, and how to remove themselves without drama.

Confidence doesn't come from being told what to do. It comes from doing it over and over until your body knows what to do before your brain panics. That's what I see now when I visit them. They don't move through their cities timidly. They move through them confidently.

Letting go is easier when you trust the foundation

Of course, I still worry. I'm a mom. That doesn't disappear when your kids become adults.

But my worry isn't rooted in helplessness. It's balanced by trust, trust in the skills they've built, the judgment they've practiced, and the independence they've earned.

When my phone buzzes with a "Made it home" text after a trip, it feels less like relief and more like confirmation: this is working.

They don't need me hovering. They need me to believe in them.

Hovering feels loving, but capability lasts longer

There's a cultural push right now toward constant monitoring with tracking apps, check-ins, and helicoptering disguised as protection. I understand the initial instinct to track. The world feels scary and unpredictable.

But teaching kids to manage the world doesn't mean abandoning them to it. It means equipping them to navigate it.

I didn't raise my kids to avoid risk entirely. I raised them to recognize it, assess it, and react to it with confidence. Now they're doing exactly that, on their own terms, in cities they chose.

Calm isn't the absence of concern; it's earned trust

People assume calm means complacency. It doesn't.

My calm comes from years of watching my kids learn to handle themselves, problem-solve, adapt, and stay aware without becoming anxious.

I don't feel calm because I believe nothing will happen. I feel calm because I believe they'll know what to do if something does.

And that, to me, is the real goal of parenting. It's not raising kids who need you forever, but raising adults who know how to stand confidently without you right beside them.

• Bookstores have been built in unexpected places, including bank vaults and former bomb shelters.
• Others are significant for their beauty, whether it's from architecture or environmental conditions.
• Some bookstores in Europe have histories dating back multiple centuries.

No two bookstores are exactly the same, but some shops around the world are truly unique in their identities.

Some bookstores are built in surprising places, like the store Boekhandel Dominicanen, built in a 700-year-old church in Maastricht, Netherlands. Other shops have found homes in unexpected places, such as former banks and car dealerships.

Then there are shops with storied histories, most commonly found in Europe. In Paris, used book vendors line the sides of the Seine River, while other stores have been visited by literary heroes, including Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald.

See some of the most unique bookstores in the world, renowned for their history, architecture, and surprising locations.

The Paddy Field Bookstore is located in an abandoned house on a paddy field in Xiadi, China.

The Xiadi village is over 800 years old and contains 60 dilapidated buildings. Structures, including the bookstore, have been restored by volunteers rather than torn down. All that remains of the original building is the outer rammed-earth walls.

The bookstore stocks over 7,500 titles. It also has a café that overlooks the paddy fields and the village.

Owned by the chain Librairie Avant-Garde, the shop has a wide selection with an emphasis on subjects such as ancient villages, rural education, and agricultural civilizations.

The Paddy Field Bookstore also holds art exhibitions, theater shows, and live music acts throughout the year.

This boat in London has been turned into a floating bookstore called Word on the Water.

The shop operates out of a 1920s Dutch barge on Regents Canal, according to Atlas Obscura.

Started by Paddy Screech, Jonathan Privett, and Stephane Chaudat, the shop originally alternated locations because of canal regulations, but after a vocal public campaign, the bookstore was given a permanent spot.

During the winter months, the inside of the barge offers a refuge from low temperatures.

The bookstore has a range of books, from cult classics to modern bestsellers. 

El Ateneo Grand Splendid is inside a historic theater in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Since its creation in 1919, the Grand Splendid has been a performing-arts theater, a cinema, and now a bookstore, per Condé Nast Traveler.

The building still maintains much of the architecture and decor from when it was first built, including a red curtain stage, theater boxes, and balconies.

The building was in danger of being torn down before it became a bookstore.

Grupo Ilhsa, a popular book chain, swooped in and saved the building from destruction when they signed a lease in 2000. The bookstore's musical roots aren't completely lost: it often hosts live performances by pianists.

In 2019, Grand Splendid was named "the world's most beautiful bookstore" by National Geographic.

The Last Bookstore in Los Angeles is housed in a former bank. Piles of cash have been replaced by piles of books.

The store is designed to be explored. Bookshelves have been randomly placed throughout the store. A selection of hardbacks have been arranged by color rather than author. Used and damaged books have been stacked in a variety of ways. 

Per Time Out, the shop is the most Instagrammed bookstore in the world.

Remnants of the bank's architecture remain in the store.

Visitors will notice design touches such as marble pillars and a high ceiling. If customers look hard enough, they'll stumble across the bank vault in the back … but it's now stocked with books.

Munro's Books, a large independent bookstore in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, is also located inside a former bank.

The bookstore, which opened more than 60 years ago, was founded by Nobel Prize-winning author Alice Munro and her husband. The building where the shop is located was designed to be the Royal Bank of Canada, according to the store.

The title of the largest independent bookstore in the world may belong to Powell's Books in Portland, Oregon.

Powell's Books has multiple locations across Portland and the surrounding area, but its main location draws the most eyes with its movie-theater-style sign advertising upcoming events.

Opened in 1979, the flagship location was formerly a car dealership.

The store claims to be the largest independent bookstore in the world, and has been named one of the best in the world by USA Today and CNN.

Its flagship location takes up four stories on a full city block.

According to the store, more than 500,000 books are housed at Powell's Books' main location, known as "The City of Books."

It has over 3,500 sections, with color-coded rooms for different genres. It also offers tours to schools and other organizations.

Libreria Acqua Alta in Venice, Italy, is one of the few bookstores in the world where you might need rain boots.

The name of the store translates to "Book Store of High Water," according to Atlas Obscura.

To protect its collection from the frequent flooding of Venice's canals, the store has placed its books in waterproof basins and bathtubs.

Steps leading outside are made from water-damaged books.

The shop, regularly called one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world by outlets like National Geographic, mostly carries second-hand books. Old boats, from gondolas to kayaks, hold books throughout the store.

Barter Books is located in a Victorian railway station in the small market town of Alnwick, England.

The station, which opened in 1887, was left empty after the train line closed in 1968. The entrance to Barter Books was once the station parcels room, and visitors can still see the window where passengers bought their tickets.

In addition to adding bookshelves, a children's room, and a model railway, the owners have restored many of the station's original features.

According to the store, the outdoor canopy was re-exposed, the fireplaces were restored, and the rooms were plastered and repainted, among other changes.

The store's website says of the changes, "All of which, to our pleasure, has brought, after its closure in 1968, public life back to a building that was made for it."

Before it was a bookstore called Librairie Avant-Garde, this building in Nanjing, China, was used as a bomb shelter and government parking lot.

Located below Nanjing's Wutaishan Stadium, Librairie Avant-Garde opened in 2004 after owner Qian Xiaohua spent years renovating the 41,000-square-foot space, per Atlas Obscura. The store has become a popular place for students and tourists. 

The bookstore specializes in religious texts, reflecting the owner's own faith.

Parts of the bookstore are decorated in large crosses, but according to the owner, who is Christian, knowledge is the most sacred thing of all. Also in the store is a replica of Auguste Rodin's statue "The Thinker."

This 700-year-old Gothic church is now home to the bookstore Boekhandel Dominicanen in Maastricht, Netherlands.

Originally a Catholic church, the building was deconsecrated in the 1790s by Napoleon Bonaparte, who used it to store equipment and personnel rather than as a place of worship, per Atlas Obscura. In 2005, the space was renovated into the bookstore it's known for today.

Inside, modern titles sit beneath Gothic arches.

The building, which was reimagined by Amsterdam-based architects Merkx+Girod, is now home to a three-story black steel bookshelf, as well as elevators and a large cross-shaped table. 

The historic Cărturești Carusel in Romania was renovated into a sprawling, modern attraction.

The building that houses Romanian book chain Cărturești's quintessential location in Bucharest has taken on different forms since its inception. The building was constructed in 1860, per the Romanian outlet Wall-Street.

Under the ownership of the wealthy Greek-Romanian Chrissoveloni family, it served as a bank until the mid-20th century, when it was nationalized under totalitarian rule.

The building then housed a clothing store and later a location for La Familia, a clothing brand in the country. Finally, Cărturești began renting out the space in 2013, and the building is still owned by a member of the Chrissoveloni family.

The bookstore features a bistro and over 10,000 square feet of space.

What was once William Faulkner's New Orleans residence is now a bookstore in his name.

When Faulkner was still an unknown writer, he rented an apartment in New Orleans' French Quarter. It was in this apartment where he'd work on his first novel, "Soldiers' Pay." Though he lived there for less than six months, he's commemorated today by a bookstore in its place.

The owners of what is now Faulkner House Books, Rosemary James and Joe DeSalvo, bought the building in 1990. They renovated it and turned the first floor, where Faulkner lived, into a bookstore.

For some shoppers, the experience has been more than a historical one.

Some visitors' experiences have bordered on paranormal in the store. Per NOLA.com, when the author Joan Williams — who was once in a relationship with Faulkner — visited, she reported smelling pipe tobacco, a favorite of Faulkner's. Only, nobody was smoking at the time.

The tradition of Paris' open-air street bookstores dates back centuries.

Per Bonjour Paris, Paris' "bouquinistes" are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site that lines the Seine River. These vendors sell used books, vintage stamps, newspapers, and other products. About 220 of these sellers sit on the river, and vendors must get approval from Paris' town hall.

The tradition dates back to the Renaissance, when sellers used to conduct business on the Seine's bridges. The iconic green boxes have been around since 1891.

Shakespeare and Company in Paris houses aspiring writers called "Tumbleweeds."

The historic Shakespeare and Company is based off the original store of the same name, which existed from 1919 to 1941 and attracted writers like Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald

The current store, opened by George Whitman in 1951, was also visited by notable literary figures, such as Allen Ginsberg, Richard Wright, and James Baldwin.

Per the store's website, "the bookshop has opened its doors to aspiring writers who've asked for a bed" since the store opened. In 2026, this takes the form of the store's "Tumbleweed Program," in which writers are provided living accommodations for up to a month in exchange for helping out with store events.

The store receives applications from thousands of individuals a year, but can only take about 20.

• PwC and Anthropic have announced a major expansion of their alliance partnership.
• PwC employees will use Claude as they help clients redesign their operating models around AI.
• Anthropic has surpassed OpenAI in business AI adoption, according to one recent report.

Anthropic is on a mission to make Claude a default AI tool for corporate America — and the Big Four firm PwC is now one of its biggest routes in.

On Thursday, PwC and Anthropic announced a major expansion of their alliance, a move that will help their efforts to embed AI into the underlying infrastructure of large companies.

The expanded partnership will focus on three areas: helping engineering teams build agentic AI tools for clients, deploying AI across the dealmaking process, and reinventing clients' underlying operating models with AI.

PwC will train and certify 30,000 US employees in Claude Code and expand the product to its global workforce of 364,000. The two companies will also establish a joint Center of Excellence.

The partnership brings together Anthropic's AI capabilities and PwC's industry experience, a combination that helps organizations "move from exploration to enterprise-wide impact with greater confidence," said Paul Griggs, a senior partner and CEO of PwC US, in a press release.

Claude is already available in ChatPwC — the firm's internal AI assistant — and is already being used on client engagements in finance, supply chain, and dealmaking.

In a press release, Dario Amodei, cofounder and CEO of Anthropic, praised PwC's client outcomes with AI, saying, "Insurance underwriting that took 10 weeks now takes 10 days. Security work that took hours now takes minutes."

The partnership is the latest in a string of similar announcements between Anthropic and service providers that shape how companies spend money, buy technology, and redesign work.

Anthropic announced earlier in May that it has partnered with Blackstone, Hellman & Friedman, and Goldman Sachs Asset Management on a $1.5 billion AI-services venture designed to help businesses deploy Anthropic's technology.

That strategy gives Anthropic access not just to marquee corporate names across Wall Street and the professional services industry, but also to the hundreds of portfolio companies and corporate clients under pressure to prove that AI can lift productivity and margins.

OpenAI has alliance partnerships with major consulting firms like BCG, Accenture, Capgemini, and PwC. Meanwhile, Google announced recently that it was launching a $750 million fund to help consulting firms like McKinsey, Accenture, and Deloitte roll out agentic AI to their clients.

In May, data released in Ramp's AI Index shows that Anthropic reached 34.4% business adoption in April, overtaking OpenAI at 32.3%, a dramatic reversal in a market OpenAI once dominated. Anthropic's Claude Code product is one of the key reasons adoption has surged, according to the data.

• Flick, cofounded by married couple Ray Wang and Zoey Zhang, is a new platform for filmmakers.
• Zhang, a filmmaker herself, recently began using AI to make movies — and it changed her career.
• The startup landed in Y Combinator and raised a $6 million seed round.

Zoey Zhang spent over a decade gunning for a breakthrough moment in filmmaking.

"There are hierarchies, there are gatekeepers," Zhang told Business Insider. Without funding or industry connections, making it in film felt "almost impossible."

Then she made her first film with artificial intelligence — an animated short — using a cacophony of AI tools. The project won the "Best Visual" award at MIT's 2025 AI Film Hack. It was a "turning point" in her filmmaking career, Zhang said.

She quickly teamed up with her husband, Ray Wang — a former Instagram engineer — to build a tool to help her make more films using AI. The project evolved into Flick, a generative AI video startup that landed in Y Combinator's Fall 2025 batch.

Flick recently raised $6 million in seed funding, Business Insider has learned exclusively. The round is backed by firms like True Ventures, GV, Lightspeed, Y Combinator, as well as angel investors.

The pitch to investors relied heavily on the founders' story: a marriage (literally) of tech and film.

"Together they brought this combination of engineering and art," True Ventures partner Mike Montano told Business Insider. Wang's experience building consumer-facing products at Instagram, coupled with Zhang's creativity and understanding of the filmmaking process, sold Montano on the team. Seeing the startup's product demo was a crucial part of Flick's pitch, he added.

Flick lets anyone make a short film on its platform using chat-based prompting and several AI models, including Google's Nano Banana and Veo 3, ByteDance's Seedance, and Midjourney. Its platform costs between $5 and $600 a month, depending on the amount of credits a user needs. The interface is designed to emulate a storyboard, allowing creators to move film frames around the canvas, add notes, and create and edit new scenes without opening new tabs. Flick emphasizes that one of its core offerings is maintaining character consistency across frames.

Wang said Flick was designed to "speak the filmmakers' language," so a story itself could be the focus rather than tinkering with AI tools.

Hollywood has seen a surge of platforms pitching themselves as AI solutions to filmmakers' woes. Some startups, like Flick, have raised millions by building user-friendly platforms on top of AI models. For instance, Moments Lab, which uses raw footage to produce new content faster using AI, raised $24 million in Series B funding last year.

A loftier goal for Flick, and other competitors in this space, is democratizing access to filmmaking with these tools. In theory, this could eliminate many steps, such as buying camera equipment, hiring actors, or renting sets.

"We are well aware that people have concerns about AI replacing jobs of Hollywood," Wang said. "We believe that we are creating more jobs." That's because more people will be able to make films, Wang added.

The five-person company is building out more relationships with Hollywood as it expands. It's also considering a move from the Bay Area to Los Angeles.

"We want to show the world that we want to help people create the highest quality and aesthetic content," Wang said.

Read the pitch deck Flick used to raise its $6 million seed round:

Note: Some slides and figures have been redacted.

Flick pitches itself as a combo of Figma and Cursor, but for filmmaking

The first slide emphasizes cofounder Ray Wang's background at Instagram, where he helped build the platform's stories product.

The deck immediately introduces its cofounders

Ray Wang previously worked at Instagram on its AI and stories product.

Zoey Zhang has worked as a filmmaker and completed a master's in design engineering at Brown University and RISD.

Flick highlights the awards its cofounder's AI films have won

The deck includes a sizzle reel of content made on Flick

It then shows how the platform looks and works for filmmakers

The deck emphasizes how new the startup was while it was raising capital

It also includes feedback from its early users

Flick showcases the content made on its platform

Again, the startup notes how new it is

Flick ends by comparing itself again to Figma and Cursor, claiming a spot as a go-to for AI filmmaking

• James McMillian, the president of Tone House in NYC, has a few habits that keep him in shape.
• He works out twice a day on weekdays, leaving weekends free to spend time with his family.
• He also follows a very simple high-protein diet.

Between coaching 10 workout classes a week and holding personal training sessions, James McMillian makes the most of his gym time.

The president of Tone House, a strength training facility named "the hardest workout in New York City" by Business Insider, McMillian often goes to the gym twice a day at the height of training to prepare for competitions like Hyrox or marathons.

He also completely abstains from training on weekends. "The weekend is my time where I spend with my family," McMillian told Business Insider. "But Monday through Friday is when I work out, no matter whether it's for a competition or not."

McMillian, who was diagnosed with asthma as a child, said the experience taught him the discipline necessary to be regimented with his routine.

"The biggest thing is the mentality," he said. "Nobody wakes up every single day and says, 'I want to work out.'"

His advice to stay motivated is to do what you can: Go for a walk outside or ask a friend to join you at the gym. "Try your best," he said. "Progress over perfection."

Here are McMillian's habits that help him stay fit.

Skip leg day for a full-body workout

McMillian isn't a fan of separating entire workout days by upper or lower body, preferring to focus on full-body movements. "I believe the body is meant to move as one system, not in isolated parts," he said.

If he does upper body one day, there might be some overlap when he does lower body workouts that require core strength, leading to overuse of his muscles. "There are more chances I'll get injured," he explained.

Instead, McMillian starts his morning workouts with a quick warmup. During competition training season, it looks like a one-mile run, 50 thrusters, another half-mile run, 50 reverse lunges, one more half-mile run, and 50 weighted drop exercises.

Otherwise, his warmup is three unbroken sets of 10 bicep curls, 10 dips, and 20 pull-ups.

The main workout alternates upper- and lower-body exercises, such as squats and bench presses.

Despite the intensity of his workouts, McMillian has his fitness limits. He doesn't like to work out super early in the morning, opting to start around 10 a.m. "You can be a beast later in the day," he said.

Changes up the workout tempo

When McMillian returns to the gym in the evenings at 9:30 p.m., he usually opts for a lower-intensity routine.

"That's more of a spiritual workout. That's more of my therapy," he said. "I need that workout so I can re-channel my brain to slow down."

He normally focuses less on cardio and more on strength training, slowing down his tempo to introduce more control to lifts like bench presses and squats.

He'll listen to R&B or audiobooks to tire himself out and make it easier to fall asleep when he gets home.

Keep a repeatable, high-protein diet

Because McMillian's schedule is so demanding, he doesn't overcomplicate his diet. "I prioritize foods that are predictable, digest well, and consistently support performance," he said.

In the morning, he always has oatmeal with fruit. In addition to providing protein and fiber, oatmeal is a carbohydrate that digests slowly, helping him maintain steadier energy levels at the gym. The fruit also adds water and micronutrients that support hydration and recovery.

McMillian also prefers green tea to coffee, as it's a lower-caffeine source and offers the added benefit of antioxidants.

For lunch, he'll have a sandwich. For more cardio-focused days, he has a peanut butter-and-jelly sandwich for quick energy. "It gives me a strong mix of carbohydrates and fats, which is ideal when I need something fast," McMillian said.

If he's focusing more on strength, a turkey sandwich provides lean protein, which supports muscle maintenance and helps him feel full longer. The carbohydrates also provide energy and can help maintain steadier blood sugar levels, especially if the sandwich is made with whole-grain bread. "It's a more balanced option when I'm in between meetings or not immediately training, but still need to stay fueled," McMillian said.

McMillian's dinners are usually centered on steak. "After a long day of output, I focus on meals that help me rebuild, not just feel full," McMillian said. Steak is rich in protein and iron, the latter of which is helpful in maintaining oxygen transport and energy production.

The trainer said that keeping to a semi-regimented diet is a core part of his performance at the gym. "When your nutrition is consistent, your energy, recovery, and output become more consistent, too," he said.

• I went to Old Navy and tried on eight sundresses to see if any could be good summer closet staples.
• Some of the dresses had straps that were too long for my petite frame.
• However, there were a few options I would definitely consider buying.

With resort vacations, backyard parties, and wedding weekends around the corner, the warmer weather always feels like the perfect excuse to refresh my collection of sundresses.

For this year's restock, I turned to one of my go-to retailers: Old Navy. From breezy linen styles to tiered maxis and playful prints, there was no shortage of options to choose from.

After trying on eight different sundresses, a few stood out as versatile staples I'd happily wear all summer long. Others, however, missed the mark when it came to fit, fabric, or overall design.

I was excited about a flowy pink mini dress I found, but it turned out to be my least-favorite option.

When I saw the pink sleeveless drop-waist swing mini dress on the rack, I was immediately drawn to its pretty hue and relaxed silhouette. This style seemed ideal for hot days and casual outings.

After putting it on, however, I was disappointed. I tried it on in my usual size, but the dimensions seemed incredibly off for my triangle body type, which means my hips are wider than my shoulders.

I didn't think this dress was very flattering on me.

The straps, which were not adjustable, were too long for me and would need to be tailored, as the neckline dropped below my décolletage, showing the top of my bra.

The material, made from 100% cotton, was lightweight and comfortable, but it was incredibly wrinkly and felt thin. It would definitely need to be steamed before wearing.

I also thought the silhouette lacked any real shape and felt unflattering. Since I'm 5-foot-2, I'd be interested to try this in petite sizing, but it wasn't available in-store.

Considering it was 100% cotton, it seemed fairly priced at $40. However, I wouldn't consider buying it. This option might work well on other body types, but it wasn't a fit for me.

I really liked the peach lace midi dress when I saw it on the rack.

Next, I tried on the fit-and-flare lace midi dress. I loved the unexpected combination of such a bold peach color and dainty lace, and was drawn to the asymmetrical hemline and subtle ruffle detail.

Overall, I loved the body-hugging fit. The dress was also available in a pistachio shade and white, and the latter seemed like it could be cute for my "bridal era."

Unfortunately, though, the fabric was see-through.

In the fitting room, I noticed the material (made of 86% nylon and 14% Spandex) was incredibly sheer, and my undergarments were clearly visible through it.

The dress might work better with neutral-colored underwear or a nude slip, but I'm still not confident that either is a perfect solution.

Given the $50 price point, I want something I can easily throw on without overthinking what I have to wear underneath. Although the style was flattering, I probably wouldn't buy this dress.

I was drawn to the purple gingham-patterned mini dress.

I'm a big fan of dainty and feminine details, so when I saw the gingham print and lovely lilac color of the strappy mini shift dress, I knew I had to grab it off the rack.

After being a little disappointed by the first few options, I was excited to try this one on.

This option really won me over.

Although I don't typically love the boxy cut of shift dresses, I actually really liked the structured look of this one. It gave off a vintage summer feel.

This, combined with the mini length and thoughtful touches (like the bow ties on the back), won me over. Plus, it had adjustable straps, so I could maneuver it to fit my body.

Made from 100% polyester, it wasn't as breezy as the other options, but it was still lightweight and comfortable enough for the summer heat. Plus, for $30, I thought it was a steal.

Next, I tried on another pink midi dress.

The next option I tried on was the fit-and-flare cami mini dress. I loved the pinstripe print combined with the classic empire waistline.

I also appreciated the tie detail and the scoop neckline, which added a feminine touch.

The style was nice, but I wasn't impressed by the fit.

Once I tried this on, I found it lacked shape and felt poorly constructed. The straps kept falling off my shoulders, and the dress billowed at the bust.

Again, this issue may have been mitigated with a petite size — which I, unfortunately, could not find in store.

I did appreciate that this dress was made from 100% cotton, but like the previous option I tried on, it felt a bit flimsy and wrinkled easily.

With this in mind, I didn't think it was worth $40.

I really liked this floral linen-blend midi dress.

Next, I tried the fit-and-flare sleeveless linen-blend midi dress.

When I saw the linen material, beautiful blue hue, and floral print, I thought it looked like the ultimate summer dress option. So, I promptly brought it to the fitting room.

The dress was pretty, but the sizing seemed a bit off.

Unfortunately, the scoop neckline fell below my bra (again), and the straps were too big to stay on my shoulders.

Still, I appreciated the durable yet lightweight linen blend (55% linen and 45% viscose rayon), and the full-length seams offered a more structured, elegant fit.

If it had fit properly on my body, it likely would have been my top choice of the bunch.

For those who don't need petite sizing, I'd recommend trying this on for summer vacations and events. At $50, it seems like a worthy seasonal investment.

This yellow maxi caught my eye from across the store.

When in doubt, a flowy, lightweight maxi dress is an excellent choice for hot summer days. That's why I tried on the airy smocked maxi dress in a bright-yellow print, which caught my eye from across the store.

Although this dress wasn't for me, I think it would make a great maternity option.

My first thought when I tried this on was that it would be a good maternity clothing option. It was incredibly roomy and comfortable (made of 100% rayon), but it completely swallowed up my figure.

I appreciated the pockets and center pleating, but it made me feel a bit frumpy. I think this option would work nicely on taller or curvier frames. Plus, it's only $40.

Although I wouldn't order it myself, this dress would work for an easy, casual ensemble for a variety of occasions.

The smocked midi dress fit me beautifully.

My second-favorite option of the group — and favorite in terms of fit and shape — was the fit-and-flare smocked-bodice midi dress.

The light blue shade with pin stripes reminded me of something people might wear to the Hamptons or on an elevated coastal getaway.

I loved how comfortable this one was, too.

This was easily the most flattering design on my specific body type, thanks to the ruched bodice, thick straps, and fit-and-flare skirt.

Made from 100% cotton, the material was airy, comfortable, and something I could wear on repeat during summer. I definitely think it would be worth the $50 investment.

When I saw the beaded straps on the yellow boho maxi dress, I knew I had to try it on.

Out of all the options I tried on, the sleeveless boho maxi dress is the one I could genuinely picture myself wearing.

I was initially drawn to the simple mustard-yellow shade and the slouchy silhouette, but the beaded details on the straps convinced me to try it on.

Of all the dresses I tried, this one was my favorite.

This dress had a wide-cut shape, which normally isn't as flattering on my body. But in this case, the bagginess of it seemed aligned with the laidback, bohemian style. The adjustable straps also made it easy to fit the bodice to my size.

I also liked the V-neckline paired with the stitching under the chest and an empire waist. Made from 60% cotton and 40% viscose rayon, the fabric felt comfortable and lightweight.

Overall, this is a simple, stylish, and flattering sundress that I'd wear all summer long. And for $45, you can't beat the price.

• I travel with my kids often, but because I'm self-employed I rarely take time off.
• Over the years, I've found creative ways to get my work done without disrupting our travels.
• Just like I do at home, I rely on getting work done while my kids are sleeping or using devices

I try to travel with my kids as often as I can. Because my husband has limited vacation time, I often find myself off on an adventure with my children on my own.

I work as a freelance writer and online adjunct professor, with other jobs occasionally thrown into the mix. I love the flexibility of being self-employed, but it means that I don't get any paid time off and never truly get a break from work, even while on vacation.

Over the years, I've found ways to keep up with work no matter where in the world I am, even when I'm with my children. Though many of the techniques I use to keep working while solo parenting away from home aren't ideal, they have served me well.

I do as much prep work as possible before traveling

Although it's impossible to anticipate every work demand that will arise while traveling, I try to do as much prep work as possible before leaving home.

For my teaching job, I make sure that I am caught up on grading and address any student concerns or training requirements before going away. I also prepare a few lessons before leaving, knowing I can tweak them as needed, as class develops much faster than developing lessons from scratch.

For my writing assignments, I try to outline pending assignments and reach out to sources to share their expertise well in advance, even if I don't anticipate writing until later in my trip. That way, I am ready to start an article right away when I have the time, and especially if an unexpected window to work arises during the trip.

I often work before my kids wake up and after they go to sleep

Although it's not ideal, while on vacation, I often work before my kids wake up and after they go to sleep. Sure, I would much rather get more sleep or read a book to decompress during this time. However, when I am traveling, I am usually with my kids 24/7, and the only time I have to myself is when they are asleep.

I can usually work in our hotel room while my kids sleep, but at times I have had to work from the hallway outside of our hotel door to make sure the clacking of my keyboard didn't disturb them.

Sometimes I work while my kids play

There are times I need to sit on the sidelines while my kids have fun so I can get work done. This always hurts a little, and I have to remind myself how fortunate I am to have found a tremendous amount of flexibility that allows me to contribute financially to my family and travel as much as I do.

Sometimes my kids play Uno, eat breakfast, or build sandcastles while I type away on my computer nearby. Even though my kids often complain that I am working on vacation, they understand that if I didn't work, we wouldn't be able to go on so many of the trips they love.

I allow my kids to have screen time when I need to get work done

Just like at home, I sometimes break down and give my kids extra screen time while I work. This is never ideal, but it's a solution many parents use when they are desperate for some time to get work done. It works just as well in a hotel as in our living room.

I take advantage of kids' clubs and activities if they are available

Admittedly, I don't often travel to places with kids' clubs. However, when I do, I take full advantage of the option to have someone else entertain my kids while I work.

I have stayed at all-inclusives with included kids' clubs and have also taken a cruise with one. I even took an expedition cruise to Iceland that had kids' activities scheduled each day. When I know I will need a reliable, solid chunk of time to work uninterrupted each day, I always look for an option with some type of kids' activities.

When you spend hours at your desk, the right task lighting makes all the difference. The best desk lamp doesn't just brighten your immediate space, it reduces eye strain, sharpens focus, and provides focused light well into the evening.

We consulted with three experts — an ophthalmologist, an ergonomist, and an engineer — and tested various lighting options. Our picks for the best desk lamps provide consistent, adjustable illumination so you can tackle anything from late-night computer work to hands-on projects without fatigue. For more home office recommendations, check out our guides to the best standing desks and best ergonomic chairs, as well as our favorite useful desk accessories.

Learn more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and researches home products.

Our recommendations for the best desk lamps

Best overall: BenQ e-Reading LED Swing Arm Desk Lamp - $249 at Amazon

Best budget: Honeywell Sunturalux Foldable Modern Desk Lamp - $36 at Amazon

Best for video calls: Humanscale Nova Desk Light - $459 at Lightology

Best for eye strain: Dyson Solarcycle Morph - $699 $499 at Dyson

Best work lamp: FORSÅ Work Lamp - $40 at IKEA

Best design: Gantri Aim Task Light - $348 at Gantri

Best overall

A highly adjustable, oversized lamp that's ideal for large desks and monitor setups. The BenQ e-Reading Desk Lamp extends up to 30 inches tall, making it significantly larger than the other desk lamps we tested, and I could easily position it above a full-size computer monitor. The head sits on a ball joint, while the arm rotates 360 degrees at the base, so it was easy to angle the light exactly where I needed it.

Despite its more complex design, the lamp was quick to set up and adjust. It also works with accessories like a desk clamp and floor extension stand, adding versatility if you want to save desk space or use it in a different setup. The sturdy base kept the lamp stable, even though it was the heaviest model we tested.

Its smile-shaped head casts wide, even lighting across a full workspace. The head is just over 15 inches long and illuminated my entire 48-inch desk, so I rarely needed my overhead light. At its brightest setting, the lamp produces 1,800 lux, and the flicker-free LEDs help reduce eye strain.

The BenQ offered the most customization of any desk lamp we tested. It has 22 brightness settings and 13 color temperature options, all controlled by a knob. The ambient light sensor automatically adjusts the brightness based on the room, though I occasionally made small tweaks. I also liked the e-reading mode, which makes the sides of the lamp brighter and the center slightly dimmer to reduce screen glare.

Best budget

A budget-friendly pick for small desks. The Honeywell Sunturalux Foldable Desk Lamp base is just 2 by 4 inches and measures 13 inches tall. The foldable arm hinges up and down 180 degrees, making it easy to fit into compact setups. It also comes in three finishes.

It's best suited for my laptop than my desktop computer. The single dial is simple to use: press it to switch between three light temperatures, twist it to adjust brightness, and hold it down to turn the lamp off.

The light is adjustable, but it can cause eye fatigue at higher settings. A frosted plastic cover helps diffuse the LEDs, but I found the lamp more comfortable when I turned the brightness down or angled the arm slightly away from my workspace.

The USB ports are convenient and easy to access. The base has both USB-A and USB-C ports on top, which came in handy when I needed to charge my phone during the day.

Best for video calls

A sleek desk lamp that doubles as flattering lighting for video calls. The Humanscale Nova Task has a highly adjustable head that rotates 180 degrees, making it easy to position the light toward your face for Zoom calls and other video meetings. It also works well as everyday task lighting.

The round LED head creates even, diffused light without harsh glare. The LEDs are arranged around the edge of the lamp head and directed inward through layered lighting guides, which helps reduce bright spots and eye strain. The LEDs are rated to last 50,000 hours and are backed by a 10-year warranty.

The controls are minimal, and the motion sensor makes the lamp feel almost hands-free. You adjust brightness with a touch bar, which dims between 14% and 100%, and tap it to turn the light on or off. I mostly rely on the motion sensor: it turns on when I approach, remembers my last setting, and shuts off after 15 minutes of inactivity. On rare occasions it turned off when I was sitting very still, but a quick movement turned it back on.

The Nova is sturdy, smooth to adjust, and available in several mounting options. The aluminum body and steel hinges feel well-made, and the head, arm, and lamp body are easy to move with one hand. It's made with 70% recycled materials and can be configured with a tabletop base, clamp mount, wall mount, or charging base. The 3000K Warm Light version is most widely available, while the Cool Light version is available directly from Humanscale.

Best for eye strain

A smart desk lamp that automatically adjusts throughout the day. Few lamps with auto-adjusting dimmers came up in my research, but this Dyson Solarcycle Morph met our criteria for testing. This Energy Star-certified model changes its brightness and warmth based on your location, though you'll need to give the MyDyson app location access for the feature to work.

During testing, it never caused eye strain. The lamp optimized its settings to suit my environment with micro-adjustments that happen every 60 seconds. It can also automatically turn itself off and on when you leave or enter the room.

The Solarcycle Morph has the sleek, modern design you'd expect from Dyson. I was surprised by its 7.7-pound weight, but the lamp is impressively flexible. The vertical stem rotates 360 degrees, and the horizontal arm can twist to direct light sideways or upward for ambient lighting.

The app is easier to use than the lamp's built-in controls. You can adjust warmth and brightness from the top of the arm, but I found the controls finicky. The MyDyson app makes it much easier to customize the light, save settings for specific situations, and even tailor the lighting based on your age.

Best work lamp

An affordable architect-style lamp with a sturdy, highly adjustable design. The Ikea FORSÅ work lamp has a hinged arm and domed shade to give it a more traditional work-lamp look. It's currently available in a shiny nickel-plated finish. I tested it in a turquoise color that is no longer available.

It takes more setup than most of the lamps I tested. I had to attach the arm to the base, set up the springs that control its movement, and connect the dome that holds the bulb. It also doesn't come with a light bulb, so you'll need to buy an E12-style bulb (often called a chandelier bulb) separately.

Once assembled, the FORSÅ feels stable and offers excellent range of motion. The weighted base kept it from tipping over, and its three hinges let me move the lamp into virtually any position. Of all the lamps I tested, this one offered the most adjustability.

The domed shade creates useful task lighting without shining directly in your eyes. I tested it with a 40-watt soft white E12 bulb, and it lit up a surprisingly large area of my desk. The main downside is that it isn't dimmable and has a simple on/off switch, though you could use a smart E12 bulb, like this one from Philips Hue, to add dimming and color controls.

Best design

A rare desk lamp that's both stylish and functional. Most of the lamps I tested were either good-looking or practical, but the Gantri Aim Task Light manages to be both. Its sculptural design makes a statement on a desk while still working well for everyday task lighting.

The 3D-printed design looks surprisingly polished. The lamp is made from plant-based materials and assembled to order in California, so delivery can take up to 30 days. Despite being 3D printed, the exterior is smooth and seamless, and it comes in a wide range of colors.

It's adjustable enough for task lighting or softer ambient light. The arm rotates 360 degrees, and the shade tilts back and forth so you can angle the light toward your workspace. You can also rest the head on the base for a gentler glow, though the lamp is bulkier than most and needs a decent amount of desk space.

The dimmer and replaceable bulb make it more practical than many LED lamps. A slider on the cord lets you adjust brightness, and the diffuser helped reduce eye strain during testing. The fixed 2,700 K color temperature may not suit everyone, but you can swap in a different bulb if needed. The Anglepoise Type 80 was a close runner-up, but it isn't dimmable and caused more eye strain during testing. It is a larger style that is well-suited to working with monitors, however,

Read our Gantri review with a few of our favorite styles.

What to look for in the best desk lamps

Choosing the best desk lamp might not seem like a complicated task, but there are a number of features you'll want to look for when selecting what fixture will work best for your needs.

Range of motion: All experts consulted for this guide agreed that lamps should be adjustable, and the larger the range of movement, the better. McGowan said lamps should have "the ability to be positioned to exclude glare on the work surface, keyboard, input display, computer display, or other equipment." A wide range of motion also allows you to move a lamp's light source closer to paper or other objects when needed. 

Base: The best desk lamps come in various shapes and sizes. If you have minimal desk space, try a lamp with a clamp base that can attach to your desk, headboard, or kitchen table. If you've ever wondered why some desks have holes in them, it is actually for a desk lamp and other cords, so the wires and base can slip through the bottom to be hidden.

Brightness and color temperature: Extended computer use can cause eye strain, but proper lighting can help minimize the effects. "Having the appropriate color spectrum has been shown to benefit our sleep/wake cycle, contributing to fatigue and eye strain," said Bert. Look for a light with brightness settings and different light temperatures, allowing you to adjust the color spectrum throughout the day.

LED: LEDs are long-lasting, don't get overly warm, and are often adjustable for brightness and color temperature (more warm or cool). For the most natural-looking light, look for a higher Color Rendering Index (CRI), between 85 and 100. 

Energy efficiency: If you're using a lamp all day, an energy-efficient model can help save you money. Luckily, most of today's best desk lamps use LED bulbs, which consume less energy and last significantly longer than incandescent bulbs. You may also want to look for a light that is Energy Star-certified, which must use 90% less energy than traditional models using incandescent light bulbs. 

Additional features: Many desk lamps offer additional features, including wireless charging or USB ports. If you're looking for a model that can charge your phone, make sure it's compatible with your particular phone model — some only work with the latest iPhones and Androids.

How we tested the best desk lamps

I've been a product reviewer for four years now, so I used my experience testing household products, including lamps, to develop a comprehensive testing methodology. I also consulted various experts, including Benjamin Bert, MD, an ophthalmologist at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center; Blake McGowan, director of ergonomics research at VelocityEHS; and Matthew Thorpe, a senior sales engineer at Fagerhult Lighting in London. 

With their advice in mind, I came up with several essential features to evaluate, and from there, I was able to determine which of the best desk lamps to test. When testing these desk lamps, I considered several key factors, including their range of motion, brightness levels, and ease of control. I used each one in my home office for at least two full consecutive workdays.

Desk lamps FAQs

What is the difference between a table lamp and a desk lamp?

While it makes perfect sense to place any sort of lamp at your desk, a standard table lamp offers broader, more ambient light and functions more as decor and ambiance, while desks lighting will have more targeted and focused light dedicated toward tasking. They often will have features like adjustable arms or brightness aimed at reducing eye strain and increasing visibility.

Are LED desk lamps good for the eyes?

LEDs can be harsh on your eyes when not diffused. "Bare LEDs are an extremely bright point source — lots of light from a very small space — so look for a well-made fitting that will control the light with a diffuser," says Thorpe. 

What are the disadvantages of LED lamps?

LED lamps are more expensive than those with replaceable bulbs, and it can be difficult to replace built-in LEDs at the end of their life cycle. 

Which bulbs are the best for a desk lamp?

A dimmable LED light is the best bulb choice for a desk lamp. They are energy-efficient and long-lasting, making them well worth the investment. 

What color temperature should my desk lamp be?

It depends on what you're looking for in a desk lamp. Cool lights boost productivity, whereas warm lights are more soothing and relaxing. For getting the most work done, a cooler tone is ideal. If you're having a stressful day and need some extra soothing, warm light is a good bet. Many of the lamps we tested and recommend let you toggle between warm and cool lighting depending on your personal preference.