• When I traveled abroad solo for two weeks, I brought only a carry-on suitcase and a personal item.
• I was glad I'd packed an all-in-one worldwide adapter and my wired headphones.
• Still, I wish I had brought fewer shirts and could have gone without a fancy dress.

When I set out on my first solo international trip — a two-week journey through Ireland, the UK, and Iceland, along with pit stops in New York and Chicago — I was plagued by one question: What should I pack?

Since I was only bringing a carry-on suitcase and a backpack, every item had to earn its place. By the time I got home, I made plenty of memories — and came to a much clearer sense of what I'd pack again, and what I'd leave behind.

Here are four items I was glad I brought, and three I could've gone without.

I'm glad I packed a light jacket that worked in so many different climates.

Even though I went on this trip in the summer, I knew several places I was visiting would be rainy. But because of the different climates I was going to, I quibbled over how warm I wanted a jacket to be.

I settled on an older, rain-resistant jacket that had lost some of its fluff rather than a light windbreaker. The jacket kept me warm in the Icelandic mist and didn't overwhelm me in New York during evening showers.

Bringing local currency was a last-minute decision I don't regret.

Right before my trip, I decided to get Icelandic krónur, British pounds, and some euros.

I spent a long time deciding whether to bite the bullet and get paper cash, wondering if that would even be useful. Since I was traveling alone, I erred on the side of caution and picked up some bills.

Even though I didn't use it every day — except at the airport and to buy some souvenirs at small shops — bringing local currency gave me peace of mind, and I would certainly pack it again.

An all-in-one worldwide adapter was crucial.

If I had to pick one item as most essential, it would be my all-in-one travel adapter.

Since space in my bag was scarce, this all-in-one version was perfect, as it preserved room in my suitcase for other items and prevented me from bringing multiple adapters.

Bringing wired headphones was a lifesaver on flights.

I always keep a pair of wired headphones in my bag with all my chargers. A few times on my flights, when a TV show wouldn't download in time, or my AirPods ran out of battery, my wired headphones were there for me to use for in-flight entertainment.

Not only were they a lifesaver, but they also meant I didn't have to buy a pair on the plane.

I wish I had left my stylish shoes at home in favor of a more functional alternative.

On day three of my trip, before even leaving the US, I was in New York and had found myself in a Foot Locker because my feet were already hurting.

Even though I love walking, the sneakers that I thought were reliable — not perfect, but reliable — were failing me, and I was in pain.

So, I ended up purchasing a more functional pair suitable for lots of activity. After this purchase, I came to an important conclusion that I think will stick with me: it doesn't matter if the shoes are cute if they're not walkable.

I packed more shirts than I needed.

In the wee hours of packing, I started thinking about every what-if moment that could happen. For example, what if I went somewhere nice or spilled food on a shirt?

So, I ended up bringing seven different tops, and now looking back, I definitely could've left one behind.

After all, by the time I visited Iceland, I was layering so much that my base shirt didn't really matter.

A fancy dress took up way too much space, and I didn't even wear it.

Forgetting that my trip was mostly sightseeing and pounding the pavement, I packed a dress just in case.

However, when I actually needed something borderline dressy, I reached for one of my versatile shirts instead.

Next time, unless I have an explicitly fancy occasion, I'll leave the dress at home and save room in my suitcase for other essentials.

• Tesla said on Friday it sold 486,000 EVs in the third quarter.
• The figures beat Wall Street's expectations and follow Elon Musk's automaker posting record sales last year.
• Investors are increasingly focused on Tesla's robotics and AI ventures and rumors of a merger with SpaceX.

Tesla's EV business is still going strong.

Elon Musk's electric carmaker announced on Friday that it sold 486,532 vehicles in the third quarter, down 2% year over year.

The figures came in well above Wall Street's expectations. Tesla shares rose more than 2% in premarket trading on the news.

Analysts were expecting the company to deliver around 463,761 EVs, according to a consensus compiled by Bloomberg, while Tesla's own compilation of analyst forecasts predicted 462,000 deliveries.

Tesla posted record sales in Q3 last year as buyers rushed to take advantage of the $7,500 tax credit for new EVs, which expired in September 2025.

Since then, the US EV market has cratered. Sales of electric vehicle models in August were down 47% from 2025, per data from Cox Automotive, and a host of automakers have rolled back their EV plans and pulled electric models from the US market.

Tesla has ridden out the EV winter better than most. The Model Y maker has increased its share of the US market since the tax credit went away, and posted a mega sales beat in the second quarter.

The reward for that good news was Tesla's worst stock price drop in a year, with investors increasingly showing more interest in the company's robotics and autonomous vehicle endeavors.

Tesla began adding the Cybercab, a gold-clad robotaxi without pedals or a steering wheel, to its robotaxi fleet in September, and is gearing up to begin production of its Optimus humanoid robot before the end of the year.

The company's robotaxi network remains limited to six cities in Texas and Florida, lagging rivals Waymo and well behind the ambitious targets set out by Musk at the end of last year.

The relatively slow progress has weighed on Tesla's share price, which is down more than 20% since the start of the year. Investors have one eye on rumors of a potential merger with SpaceX, which has eclipsed Tesla's market cap since its record-breaking public listing in June.

Musk and other SpaceX executives have hinted that a merger could be on the cards, with the billionaire teasing a potential combination when asked about the relationship between the two companies in a September interview.

"With all this collaboration, on so many levels, who can imagine what what action one might take?" Musk said.

• Carrie Kerpen's parents taught her to do what she loved—as long as it was stable.
• They were very risk-averse and taught her to be the same way.
• Carrie gradually became more comfortable with risk, which helped her as an entrepreneur.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Carrie Kerpen, cofounder and CEO of Whisper Group. It has been edited for length and clarity.

My parents wanted me to do something I loved that would bring me joy. But they also emphasized that I should find a secure, steady career.

My dad opened a private law practice for a very brief time before leaving to become a law clerk and later a judge. He wanted the security and pension that came with a government job, and he was willing to sacrifice a lot of potential income for that predictability. My mom, a social worker, also had an extremely steady job.

They took a similar approach to money and investing. When the stock market crashed in the 1980s, I heard the story on the news and asked my parents if we were OK. I remember my dad saying I shouldn't worry — my parents didn't invest in that, so we were safe.

I only took risks when I felt I had to

My family had a very low-risk, simple life. My parents were content with that. At first I was, too. I was only comfortable taking risks once not taking them seemed intolerable.

I got married for the first time at 24, and it quickly became clear the marriage wasn't going to work. I didn't have the courage to leave until my daughter was born when I was 26. Suddenly, the risk of being a single mom paled in comparison to the alternative: my daughter being raised in an unhappy home.

I took a similar approach at work. I'd been told I would be a great salesperson. Yet I didn't take the leap into sales until the alternative — staying at a lesser-paying job — became too stressful.

I leveraged a sponsored wedding into a business

My biggest risk was my second wedding, which also turned out to be the launch of my business. When my now-husband David proposed, he told me he wanted a larger-than-life wedding. I didn't like that idea: I was holding shame over my first marriage and divorce.

Still, I wanted David to have the wedding of his dreams, in a way we could afford. So, I took a huge risk: I contacted a minor-league baseball team about renting out their stadium. Then, we sold about $125,000 in sponsorships.

Back in 2006, the idea of a sponsored wedding was totally new and could come across as a little gauche. But our sponsors, friends, and strangers loved it. When sponsors reached out to work with us again, we leveraged it into a media company, Likeable. We scaled the company over time, and sold Likeable in 2020 for eight figures.

I teach other entrepreneurs—and my kids—that risk is important

I never would have been able to start my company or grow it as I did without accepting risk. I had to unlearn the lessons my parents had taught me about prioritizing security. At first, that was through necessity — like getting my daughter into a happier home.

Later, I learned to calculate the impact of risk. It's a skill I still use today: I reflect on the best-case scenario and the worst-case scenario. As the worst-case scenario is something I can live with, I'm willing to take the risk.

I have these conversations every day with the female entrepreneurs I work with. Too often, female founders don't consider selling their companies because they don't know what they'll do next. Or, they don't acquire other companies because they're unsure how that works. Everything in entrepreneurship is risky, and I wish more women could consider calculated risks without fear.

I also discuss risk with my kids, who are 23, 29, and 11. I've taught them to consider the worst-case scenario and decide whether it's something they're willing to handle. Right now, they have their whole lives ahead of them, and I would like them to take every risk under the sun. There's enough time to self-correct later.

• Multiple restaurant chains have shared plans to close locations in 2026.
• Wendy's closed 289 US restaurants in the first half of 2026.
• Pizza Hut said it intended to shutter 250 US locations in the first half of the year.

Some fast-food and fast-casual chains are shrinking their footprints in 2026, as restaurants navigate a difficult environment marked by rising costs, cautious consumers, and intensifying competition for diners’ dollars.

Restaurant chains including Wendy’s, Papa John's, Pizza Hut, Red Lobster, Starbucks, and Bahama Breeze have closed locations or announced plans to do so this year. Some are pulling back from underperforming restaurants, while others are restructuring or refocusing on more profitable markets.

The planned closures come amid a challenging few years for restaurant chains, driven by inflation, rising labor costs, and shifting customer preferences. Some brands have leaned on value meals and innovations to bring more customers through the door.

"What's really worked within quick service hasn't been value, as much," TD Cowen analyst Andrew Charles previously told Business Insider. "Value is important, but you look at when McDonald's, Burger King, etc, have done well — it's really when they have great menu innovation or great marketing that they really see customers respond."

Several chains have announced broad closure plans, while others have quietly or abruptly shuttered individual restaurants since the start of the year. Here’s what to know.

Starbucks closed around 250 locations across North America in 2026.

Starbucks closed about 250 locations across the US and Canada in late September as part of its “Back to Starbucks” turnaround plan. The closures represented roughly 1% of the chain’s more than 18,000 North American coffeehouses.

In a September announcement, the company said it had reviewed its store portfolio and identified locations where it could not consistently deliver the experience it wanted for customers and employees or find a path to acceptable financial performance.

The closures followed a 2025 restructuring that resulted in the net closure of 107 North American locations. Starbucks said it remains committed to growing in the region and is accelerating plans to renovate 1,500 coffeehouses.

Founded in Seattle in 1971, Starbucks has grown into one of the world’s largest coffee chains, known for its espresso drinks, Frappuccinos, and seasonal beverages.

Wendy’s closed 289 US restaurants in the first half of 2026, fulfilling most of its plan to shutter up to 350 underperforming locations.

In February, Wendy's said it intended to close roughly 5% to 6% of its US footprint — about 298 to 358 restaurants — in the first half of the year as it grappled with sliding sales and profits.

At the time, then-Interim CEO Ken Cook said the brand's focus was "to strengthen our foundation and position Wendy's for long-term success."

The Associated Press reported that Wendy's shuttered 28 restaurants in the fourth quarter of 2025, leaving it with 5,969 locations across the US at the end of the year. Wendy's now has 5,724 restaurants after closing 289 locations and opening 44 new ones.

Company data shows systemwide US sales dropped 5.2% in 2025, while same-store sales declined 5.6% compared with the previous year.

In August 2026, Wendy's announced that global systemwide sales had declined 8.2% in Q2, while same-store sales had fallen 7%. Traffic was also down by 12.5%, with the chain citing a weakened breakfast menu and fewer value offerings as potential reasons for the steep drop-off in visitors.

Pizza Hut said it intended to shutter 250 US locations.

Pizza Hut, founded in 1958 by brothers Dan and Frank Carney in Wichita, Kansas, and best-known for its pan pizza, has more than 6,000 locations in the US.

In a February earnings call, its parent company, Yum! Brands, said Pizza Hut intended to shutter 250 US locations by July 1. The closures would impact "underperforming" locations, Yum! Brands said.

In April, Fortune reported that it had identified around 50 locations that had already closed, with most affected restaurants in California, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. Yum! Brands has not publicly disclosed a final total for the closures.

Yum! Brands said late last year that it was exploring a potential sale of the chain after reporting a 1% decline in same-store sales during the third quarter, its eighth consecutive quarterly drop. In September 2026, Yum! completed the sale of Pizza Hut to the private equity firm LongRange Capital.

"The Pizza Hut team has been working hard to address business and category challenges," Chris Turner, chief executive of Yum! Brands, said in November. "However, Pizza Hut's performance indicates the need to take additional action to help the brand realize its full value, which may be better executed outside Yum! Brands."

The chain has faced tough competition from other chains, especially with the rise of value meals. Internationally, it fared better in 2025, with same-store sales increasing by 1%.

Jack in the Box is expected to close 50 to 60 locations in 2026.

Jack in the Box — the fast-food chain that has been flipping burgers since 1951 — operated 2,115 restaurants across 25 states, Mexico, and Guam as of July.

In 2025, the company rolled out its “Jack on Track” turnaround plan to improve performance and strengthen its finances. Part of the effort included selling Del Taco for $119 million, a deal completed in December.

The chain has since narrowed its outlook: It now expects to open about 25 restaurants and close about 50 to 60 locations during fiscal 2026, most of them franchised restaurants, the company said in August. By the end of the third fiscal quarter, which ended July 5, Jack in the Box had closed 17 locations.

Same-store sales also declined 1.1% year over year in the third quarter, an improvement from the 7.1% decline reported during the same period last year.

The company said it remains focused on innovation, customer service, restaurant updates, and fewer, stronger limited-time offers. QSR Magazine previously reported that the chain was pursuing those initiatives as part of its turnaround.

Papa John's has already closed 101 of the 300 restaurants it planned to shutter this year.

Papa John's announced in February that it planned to close about 200 North American restaurants in 2026 as part of a broader effort to shutter 300 underperforming locations by the end of 2027.

By its second-quarter earnings call, the chain said it had closed 101 of the 300 restaurants identified for the program and raised its expected 2026 closure range to 200-250 North American locations.

The closures primarily affect franchise-owned restaurants that are more than 10 years old and lack a clear path to long-term profitability. The company said the goal is to help franchisees redirect resources toward stronger restaurants.

Papa John's reported that global systemwide sales fell 4.8% year over year in the second quarter. North American comparable sales declined 8.3%, while international comparable sales increased 1.5%.

CEO Todd Penegor said the company is investing in its transformation plan, including restaurant economics, technology, menu improvements, and customer acquisition.

Papa John's was founded in 1984 by John Schnatter in Jeffersonville, Indiana, when he began selling pizzas out of a converted broom closet in his father’s tavern. It has since grown into one of the world’s largest pizza chains, known for its “Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.” slogan.

Red Robin has closed some of its restaurants around the US.

Some Red Robin locations in Illinois, California, and New Jersey abruptly closed in 2026, The Independent reported, while another in Wichita Falls, Texas, will close this week, according to The Sun.

The company, which has nearly 500 locations across the United States, said in February 2025 that it intended to shutter roughly 70 underperforming restaurants as part of a plan to pay down debt, USA Today reported.

Jack in the Box's footprint shrank by 13 restaurants in the third quarter, after the chain opened 4 locations and closed 17, the company reported on an earnings call.

Later in the year, executives said on an earnings call that turnaround efforts at several locations had been more successful than expected, reducing the need for additional closures.

The company had 475 US restaurants at the end of 2025, including company-owned and franchised locations.

A Red Robin spokesperson told Business Insider in March that the company had discussed up to 20 potential corporate restaurant closures in 2026, though those closures were not confirmed. The chain’s turnaround efforts had reduced the need for some of the broader closures it had previously considered.

In September, Red Robin completed the refranchising of 108 company-owned restaurants — a change in ownership, not a closure.

Red Robin was founded in Seattle in 1969 and is known for its gourmet burgers, Bottomless Steak Fries, onion rings, and hand-spun milkshakes.

Some Denny's have also closed without notice.

Denny's, which operates more than 1,650 locations globally and is recognized for comfort-food staples, confirmed in January that it had completed its plan to close 150 restaurants by the end of 2025.

Since the start of 2026, there have been reports of restaurants closing without advance notice, including locations in Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo, Michigan, and Midland, Texas, according to Mashed.

Denny's did not respond to Business Insider's request for comment on the recent closures. The company has not announced any additional planned closures for this year.

Denny’s completed its $620 million acquisition by TriArtisan Capital, Treville Capital, and Yadav Enterprises in January. Christopher Bode became the chain’s president and CEO in April, replacing Kelli Valade.

Denny's was founded in 1953 in Lakewood, California, by Harold Butler and Richard Jezak, originally operating as Danny's Donuts before evolving into a full-service coffee shop and eventually rebranding as Denny's.

Noodles & Company expects to close up to 40 locations in 2026.

In January, Fast Company reported that Noodles & Company was cutting restaurants as part of an effort to improve its finances, announcing the fast-casual chain expected to close 30 to 35 company-owned locations in 2026.

As of June 30, Noodles & Company operated 318 company-owned and 78 franchised restaurants, down from 340 and 83, respectively, at the end of 2025, according to a press release.

"We have closed underperforming stores which has resulted in a material transfer of sales to nearby Noodles locations driven by our strong off-premise business. This sales growth has raised the baseline average unit volumes, while also improving margins," CEO and President Joe Christina said.

Founded in Denver in 1995, Noodles & Company serves globally inspired noodle dishes, including Wisconsin mac and cheese, pad thai, and Japanese pan noodles, as well as soups and salads.

Red Lobster has continued closing locations, including its Times Square flagship, in 2026.

Since filing for bankruptcy in 2024 — and closing dozens of restaurants that year — Red Lobster has worked to turn around its business under CEO Damola Adamolekun. The company has updated its menu, collaborated with celebrities, and exited Chapter 11 protection; Adamolekun told The Wall Street Journal in February that sales were up 10% year over year.

The chain closed its Times Square flagship on June 14 after 23 years, citing prolonged nearby construction that hurt foot traffic and sales.

It also closed its oldest continuously operating restaurant, in Tallahassee, Florida, after 56 years, as well as locations in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, and Overland Park, Kansas.

Red Lobster has continued to review leases and close underperforming restaurants throughout 2026. Red Lobster now operates about 540 restaurants nationwide, down from more than 700 before its 2024 bankruptcy, Inc reported in August.

Founded in 1968, Red Lobster is one of the country’s largest casual-dining seafood chains, known for seafood dishes and its Cheddar Bay Biscuits.

Darden, which owns Olive Garden, has closed half of its Bahama Breeze locations and plans to convert the rest.

Darden Restaurants said in February that it would permanently close 14 of Bahama Breeze’s remaining 28 restaurants after concluding that the Caribbean-inspired chain was no longer a strategic priority.

The closures were expected to be completed by April 5. Rather than shuttering the remaining 14 locations, Darden said it plans to convert them into other concepts in its portfolio over the next 12 to 18 months, before a target date of May 2027, The New York Post reported.

The company has not announced which brands will replace Bahama Breeze at every location, though some restaurants have already been slated to become Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen locations.

Darden owns multiple chains, including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar’s, Yard House, and The Capital Grille.

Bahama Breeze opened its first location in Orlando in 1996 and is known for Caribbean-inspired dishes, tropical cocktails, and island-themed decor.

• A former HSBC executive has been barred from UK financial services over train fare fraud.
• The FCA said Joseph Molloy’s conviction showed a lack of honesty and integrity.
• Molloy dodged £5,911 in fares using a ticketing method known as "donutting."

A former HSBC executive learned that a train ticket can become a career-ending expense in finance.

Joseph Molloy was barred on Thursday by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority from regulated financial services work after a criminal conviction for dodging fares.

Molloy, 53, who until his retirement last year was the head of passive equity at HSBC Asset Management, used a method called "donutting" on journeys from his home on the outskirts of London to HSBC's office in the city.

Instead of buying a ticket for his whole commute, he bought tickets for short journeys at either end, leaving an unpaid "hole" in the middle.

Prosecutors said he used false names and addresses to obtain multiple travel cards and improperly claimed a travel discount intended for unemployed job seekers.

The court heard the plan was used 740 times over 11 months, avoiding £5,911, or roughly $7,900, in fares.

In February, Inner London Crown Court sentenced Molloy to 10 months' imprisonment, suspended for 18 months.

He was barred from the railway operator for a year, ordered to complete 80 hours of unpaid work and pay £5,000, around $6,605 in compensation, plus costs and a victim surcharge.

The Financial Conduct Authority issued what amounts to a lifetime prohibition from the industry. FCA-regulated firms cannot employ Molloy in a regulated role unless the regulator later lifts the ban.

The agency said the conviction showed a "clear and serious" lack of honesty and integrity, so he was not "fit and proper" for regulated work.

In the US, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, or FINRA, oversees brokerage firms and the brokers who work for them. It can permanently bar brokers from the industry, typically for misconduct involving clients or securities.

The FCA’s power is broader: it can prohibit someone from working in regulated finance if it decides they are not fit and proper, including because of dishonesty outside the office.

The lesson for bankers: an off-the-clock fraud can still call professional trustworthiness into question.

• We live within walking distance of my parents, sisters, and other family members.
• Daily life includes driveway waves and Sunday dinners, plus a lot of clear boundaries.
• It's nice to have a support system close by and for our kids to grow up close to their cousins.

On a typical day, I may see my cousin waving from her driveway, catch my mother or sister on a morning walk, and run into family members at the local Publix.

Some days, I'll have an espresso with my father in the afternoon, or my wife will shop with my mother after work.

I don't live with my extended family or have special teleportation powers. These are just the kind of moments that are possible when you live a few houses away from most of your family.

Living within walking distance of most of my family was never the goal, but we've made the best of it

We never intended to become neighbors with my parents and siblings, but many of us ended up house hunting at the same time.

My wife and I wanted a bigger place for our growing family; my parents were downsizing; one sister was getting married; and another sister was leaving her nearby rental to buy her first home.

We were all based in Palm Beach County, Florida, and wanted to stay in the general area. At the time, we felt priced out of the market, and so do many others in our communities.

When my wife and I found a great neighborhood on the Treasure Coast that wasn't 55-plus and had everything we needed, we were sold. Once my family heard about it, they were interested, too.

One by one, we all ended up in the same neighborhood. Not long after, an out-of-state cousin also moved onto the same street as my wife and me.

By 2024, we were all neighbors within walking distance of each other.

My wife and I live on the community lake, a two-minute walk from one of my sisters. My other sister is a street over, less than 10 minutes away, past my cousin's place.

Our parents are on the opposite side of the lake. A house on the neighboring cul-de-sac blocks them from view, and we can walk to their place in 15 minutes.

Not all families can be so close, but if you have a healthy dynamic, you get to appreciate what "it takes a village" really means, especially with kids.

For example, on Sundays we all get together for dinner. On Tuesdays, my parents spend the evening with our kids while my wife and I catch up on errands or rest.

Regularly, we share food over the fence, like steaks, or I'll host an afternoon of paella.

Living so close together has also been great in emergencies. For example, last year we lost A/C in the Florida heat, and we stayed with my parents while we waited several hours for it to be fixed. Later, we thanked them for letting us inconvenience them by dropping off a meal.

To be clear, this arrangement of being neighbors with my family hasn't always been perfect. Over time, we've discovered that boundaries matter more than we expected.

Our family has had to decide how and how often it is best to visit each other. For example, since my wife and I work remotely, family members would try to visit us during lunchtime. However, we've made it clear that keeping most weekdays just for us is important for having space.

Generally, we've learned to wait for invitations rather than heading over to anyone's place unannounced, though we still make the most of impromptu meetups when the kids are playing with chalk on the driveway, or we find each other at the same local events.

For bigger occasions, like holidays, we also make sure to divide up hosting responsibilities. Our family hosts Noche Buena, my parents take Thanksgiving, and one of my sisters handles Christmas brunch.

Ultimately, I'm grateful for the community we've built

Although I'm lucky to be so close to my family, my wife's family lives about two hours south. This was challenging for her at first, but we've made it a priority to spend equally valuable time with her parents.

They often stay at our home one or two weekends a month, and we go on vacations together when we find cruise deals departing from the Miami or Fort Lauderdale ports.

It also helps that my wife, who was an only child, has a close relationship with my sisters. They often meet up at nearby parks and events to chat while our kids play together.

Above all, living a few houses away from so many loved ones has helped us develop healthy boundaries, and I'm grateful to have so many people I love nearby.

Beyond that, our tight-knit community has only multiplied as we bring our friends together. We've introduced our friends to our family members, and they've done the same with us.

Our family table stays open for anyone, and birthdays, holidays, and other events always have extra space for someone new or special.

Ultimately, we're grateful to be surrounded by such a strong support system underneath the beautiful Florida sun.

• Midterm elections are right around the corner, with Election Day on November 3.
• Artificial intelligence and the data-center boom have pushed their way into the political arena.
• US governors' views range from exploring an AI "kill switch" to welcoming data centers.

It's up to voters whether artificial intelligence will play a role in the outcome of the coming midterm elections.

The AI boom — and the infrastructure needed to power it — has slowly become a flashpoint in US politics. The debate ranges from AI safety, regulation, and deepfakes to the rapid expansion of data centers.

Many Big Tech firms advocate for faster expansion, while local residents have pushed back against data-center projects over their potential environmental and energy-cost impacts.

One big question for voters: What roles should state and federal governments play in regulating AI? Another is how much power local communities should have over the data centers increasingly being built in their backyards.

Governors across the political spectrum — 17 of whom are up for reelection this year — have taken varied approaches to the AI boom. All 39 gubernatorial races, across 36 states and three territories, are on November 3.

Some governors, including California's Gavin Newsom (D) and New York's Kathy Hochul (D), are exploring an AI "kill switch" that would disable advanced AI systems in an out-of-control event. Republican Utah Gov. Spencer Cox has also called for federal AI safety rules.

Others, including the Republican governors of Nevada and North Dakota and the Democratic governors of Michigan and New Mexico — whose states have major AI-computing projects under construction — see data centers as an economic opportunity.

Here's what every US governor has said so far about AI, data centers, or both.

Alabama

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey (R) has approached AI as an opportunity to improve government, but one that needs guardrails.

In 2024, she created a statewide generative AI task force to examine how it could be used within the state government, emphasizing both the usage of AI and transparency, privacy, and public safety.

"GenAI represents a monumental step forward in the potential for our state government to serve the public," Ivey said in a 2024 statement. "However, its capabilities must first be studied carefully to ensure it is implemented in the most responsible and efficient manner possible."

She is one of the few governors across the US who have taken a harder line on Chinese AI tools. In 2025, Ivey issued a ban on Chinese-affiliated artificial intelligence platforms DeepSeek and Manus from all state-owned devices and networks.

Alaska

Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy (R) has pitched the state as a potential hub for the AI boom and the computing infrastructure needed for it, arguing that Alaska has an "arctic advantage."

Dunleavy has said he believes Alaska's colder climate can significantly reduce the cost of cooling AI server racks, saying in late 2025 that an Alaskan 1-gigawatt campus could save operators up to $150 million annually in cooling costs compared to a warmer state.

Dunleavy has also said that data centers could be an economic driver for Alaska, particularly by creating more construction jobs across the state.

He frequently uses AI, too, incorporating certain tools into his work as governor, including using the technology during meetings.

Arizona

Katie Hobbs (D), Arizona's governor up for reelection, has largely framed AI as an economic opportunity that the state needs to prepare for, rather than turn away from.

Hobbs has said she does not support a moratorium, which is a temporary pause, on new data-center development. At the same time, she has pushed for more structure around AI.

Her administration created the state's first AI steering committee in 2025 and launched an AI government tool in 2026, and she has described the goal as ensuring AI strengthens rather than undermines the state's economy.

"Arizona has built one of the strongest AI ecosystems in the country, and our community colleges help power it," Hobbs wrote in a January 22 post on X.

Arkansas

Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R), who is up for reelection, has said she believes AI has the potential to strengthen government efficiency, but it requires proper policies and regulations.

"AI is changing how we work, interact, and find information — and Arkansas can't afford to be left behind," she wrote in a statement in February following a new state AI effectiveness and safety report.

The report, which was completed by an AI working group that Sanders launched in 2024, found that AI could help the state improve Medicaid and SNAP programs and expand other digital services.

Earlier this year, she also joined RAISE US, a national artificial intelligence initiative launched by former Indiana governor Eric Holcomb and former US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. The initiative intends to partner with governors, employers, workers and training organizations to help the workforce transition to an AI economy.

She was one of several politicians who urged Congress to remove the AI regulatory moratorium from the One, Big, Beautiful Bill in 2025.

California

California's Gavin Newsom (D) has moved from a more cautious approach to AI regulation toward some of the most aggressive AI-safety proposals in the country.

After vetoing an AI safety bill in 2024, Newsom has since signed legislation creating independent oversight and auditing requirements on AI systems.

Now, Newsom is backing the idea of an AI "kill switch," which would be an emergency shutoff for frontier AI models, as part of a September executive order. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has proposed a similar idea.

Newsom has also directed experts to consider independent verification of AI companies' safety systems, arguing that California should move ahead even as federal action remains limited.

Colorado

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) signed Senate Bill 24-205 in 2024, making Colorado the first state to enact a comprehensive consumer-protection law aimed at protecting consumers from AI-driven algorithmic discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, education, and healthcare.

That bill was later repealed by Polis this year, however. In his repeal, he narrowed the state's framework by mandating specific transparency, documentation, and consumer rights when automated tools "materially influence" consequential decisions.

The new bill will take effect on January 1, 2027.

Polis has also shown some support for a federal moratorium on state AI laws restricting artificial intelligence, according to a 2025 Bloomberg article.

Connecticut

Ned Lamont (D), governor of Connecticut and up for reelection, signed a bipartisan AI bill earlier this year addressing youth online safety.

Lamont's approach is focused on preparing people to work alongside AI rather than restricting its use. He's also invested in workforce training designed to help Connecticut workers compete for jobs in the tech market: In February, he launched the third phase of the state's Tech Talent Accelerator, a program that aims to expand AI education and workforce training.

Delaware

Delaware Gov. Matt Meyer (D) has sought to make the state a place where companies can experiment with AI without abandoning regulation.

In 2025, he signed legislation launching an AI regulatory sandbox where companies can test AI technologies under government oversight, particularly in corporate governance, health care, biotechnology and financial services.

Meyer has described the sandbox as a way to combine innovation with transparency and public trust.

"This initiative creates space for visionaries and risk-takers to responsibly test cutting-edge artificial intelligence technologies in Delaware—prioritizing transparency, public trust, and thoughtful oversight," he wrote in a statement.

Florida

Ron DeSantis (R), Florida's governor, has pushed for protections around AI rather than banning the technology or leaving it unregulated.

His proposed AI Bill of Rights in late 2025 included data-privacy protections, parental controls, consumer disclosures and restrictions on using someone's name, image or likeness without consent.

"The AI Bill of Rights defends consumers, medical patients, and families in Florida from the potential harms of artificial intelligence applications," he wrote on X in March. "It is especially important that we protect the most vulnerable among us: our children."

Regarding data centers, DeSantis signed a bill earlier this year that would prevent residents from bearing the costs of hyperscale data centers through utility bills and give local governments more authority over where those facilities are built.

Georgia

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R) sees AI as an economic opportunity the state cannot afford to ignore.

He has backed the expansion of data centers and has positioned Georgia as a potential hub for the country's AI infrastructure, meeting directly with OpenAI and Georgia Power in July to discuss OpenAI's activity in the state, sites of interest, jobs, and investment commitments.

Much of his approach has focused on building the electricity and infrastructure needed to attract AI investment to the state.

Hawaii

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green (D), up for reelection, has taken a cautious approach to AI.

In July, he signed legislation establishing new safety measures for it — particularly surrounding 'deepfakes', which imitate one's voice and face — saying AI presents "fascinating opportunities" but that the state needs to be intentional about recognizing its potential dangers.

Idaho

Idaho Gov. Brad Little (R), who is up for reelection, has focused heavily on preparing students for an AI-driven economy.

In March, his administration launched a partnership with Microsoft, Micron and other technology companies to teach K-12 students and teachers how to adopt AI into the classroom.

While Micron will teach teachers how to use AI, Microsoft will provide AI literacy programs and its chatbot, Copilot, for all students over 13 and teachers.

Illinois

JB Pritzker, Illinois' governor up for reelection, views artificial intelligence as a transformative tool that also poses severe, existential risks to humanity.

"It's time to sound the alarm — louder — on reining in Artificial Intelligence," Pritzker wrote in an early September statement. "It's becoming more clear the threat AI poses to humanity, so I'm calling for immediate action from the industry and Washington. When AI researchers are whistleblowing, we need to listen."

His statement urged a stop to Big Tech's lobbying against safety, Congressional hearings on AI safety, and more.

Pritzker also established an AI cabinet in September to assess the various safety risks posed by AI.

Indiana

Mike Braun (R), Indiana's governor, views AI as an economic opportunity to boost wages, create jobs, and to position Indiana as a leader in AI's adoption.

In April, he launched an initiative titled IN AI to help Indiana businesses understand where AI can improve their work, how to access and use different AI tools, and where to find employees across the state who understand the technology.

He has publicly cautioned against building data centers in the state that drain Indiana's water resources.

The state is home to two large data-center projects in the US, however, housing Meta's data center that is expected to deliver 1 gigawatt of capacity and span 1,500 acres in Lebanon, as well as Google's Fort Wayne Data Center, which will require up to 1.2 gigawatts of power at full build-out.

Iowa

In February, Iowa's Gov. Kim Reynolds banned DeepSeek and RedNote, two Chinese-owned apps, from state devices. She also prohibited all state agencies from subscribing to or having an account on either app.

Reynolds has shown a focus on how to responsibly adopt AI, signing an Act in May that regulates AI chatbots, particularly for minors. One of the regulations in the Act provides disclaimers at the beginning of each chat and once every three hours.

Kansas

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly (D) supports a regulated approach to AI that balances the innovation it brings.

In August, Kelly told the Topeka Capital-Journal that there needs to be guardrails around data center construction and the water and energy use associated with them.

In August 2023, she created an AI policy that requires reviews of accuracy, appropriateness, privacy, and security before any action is taken or information is shared.

Kentucky

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear (D) is an advocate for federal oversight and regulation of AI to balance its benefits with risks such as national security and job displacement.

He signed an executive order in August to mitigate the potential environmental and cost impacts of data centers. Specifically, the order requires the companies building the data centers to submit a plan to the state's Energy and Environment Cabinet detailing how they will cover their full energy costs.

Louisiana

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry (R) also views AI as a way to drive economic growth, but said it poses security and utility cost risks.

In June, Landry issued an executive order requiring data centers seeking state sales-tax breaks to protect ratepayers from higher electricity costs, unless the state determines the project's other benefits outweigh the higher electricity costs.

In 2025, Landry, like Iowa's governor, also signed an executive order banning China's DeepSeek across all state agencies.

"As technology advances, so do the threats," he wrote in a statement. "This executive order ensures we are protecting our people, our data, and our national security from the CCP's growing influence in AI."

The state is home to one of the largest planned data centers in the US, housing Meta's Hyperion AI data center, a more than $50 billion investment that will span more than 3,600 acres and is planned to deliver 5 gigawatts of capacity once fully developed.

Maine

Maine Gov. Janet Mills (D) has taken a more cautious approach toward the growing AI industry.

This year, Mills vetoed a bipartisan bill that would have placed a temporary pause on data center construction requiring 20 or more megawatts of power. She's also said she supported a federal moratorium if it had exempted a specific project that she believed could bring jobs to Maine.

In June 2025, Mills signed a bill that bans companies from using chatbots without clear disclosure. The bill also added AI-generated deepfakes to the state's revenge porn laws.

Maryland

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D), who is up for reelection, signed an executive order in early September that relieves locals of the costs of the centers' energy usage, includes environmental protection efforts and AI job training, and establishes a "public dashboard" where locals can express their input on the centers.

Moore's executive order also established the Maryland Data Center Task Force, which will review data center projects, maintain a public data center dashboard, and more.

"My fear is a technology that no human being can control," Moore told MS NOW reporters in late September. "We've got to understand that delicate balance of cooperation and competition. As a governor, I'm very competitive with my other governors. But I do understand that there are places where the focus is cooperation and not competition."

Massachusetts

Maura Healey (D), Massachusetts' governor up for reelection, has argued that AI shouldn't advance faster than the government can protect people from its risks. In September, Healey called for federal action to strengthen AI guardrails and oversight that both allow for innovation and protect national security.

Like Moore, Healey's administration has also created a state AI task force. The state's task force, created in 2024, also includes a $100 million Applied AI Hub that studies how to apply AI to advance Massachusetts' life sciences, healthcare, financial services, advanced manufacturing, robotics, and education sectors.

"AI has enormous potential to drive scientific discovery, strengthen key industries, improve public services, and create new opportunities for businesses and residents across Massachusetts," Gov. Healey wrote in a September press release. "At the same time, the rapid pace of AI development raises serious concerns about safety, accountability, privacy, civil rights, the future of work, and public trust."

Michigan

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) has welcomed data center construction, such as Oracle and OpenAI's project in Saline Township, but with guidelines.

Her July action plan ensures that data center companies pay construction and operation costs, strengthen and safeguard the state's electric grid and natural resources, and are accountable for their development.

"It's simple: any data center company that wants to invest in Michigan must ensure working families do not pay a single penny for data center development or operations, protect our natural resources, and create local, good-paying jobs," Whitmer wrote in a press release.

Michigan is home to The Barn, a $16 billion, 1.4-gigawatt data-center campus in Saline Township that Related Digital is building for Oracle and OpenAI as part of the Stargate project.

Minnesota

Tim Walz (D), Minnesota's governor, signed a law in May prohibiting access to "nudification" technology that can generate fake nude images of real people.

"This bill makes clear that using technology to create fake, non-consensual intimate images is unacceptable and puts Minnesota at the forefront of addressing the harms of AI while protecting people from exploitation and abuse," Walz wrote in a press release.

The law echoes Walz's broader approach to AI, which encourages its development while drawing lines around any usage that threatens privacy or safety, specifically for children.

In May 2023, he also signed a state law that regulates and restricts the use of deepfakes in political campaigns.

Mississippi

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves (R) signed a memorandum of understanding with NVIDIA in June 2025 to promote AI education, workforce integration, and research collaboration.

His focus is on ensuring Mississippi's workforce can use AI effectively; in May, he launched a statewide AI framework that centers on equipping students and workers with skills in ethical reasoning and AI-related cybersecurity awareness.

During a Sept. 30 Federalist Society conversation, Reeves emphasized that Mississippi works efficiently at cutting deals with companies, particularly AI and data center companies, highlighting the state's $20 billion partnership with xAI was expected to launch only a few weeks after making the deal.

"So many states around the country start at no and give you the burden to ultimately get to yes…" Reeves said. "…We start at yes, and as we navigate our way through it, we've got very seasoned, talented people who run our economic development shop."

Missouri

In May, Mike Kehoe (R), Missouri's governor, announced that Google will invest $15 billion into data center construction in New Florence, a rural town in central Missouri.

Kehoe also signed an executive order in January that allows for growth in data centers and Missouri's use in AI, while calling on economic and natural resources directors to study how AI could impact the local workforce and citizens' energy bills.

The state is home to one of the largest planned data centers in the US, Nebius' AI Factory, which will reach a capacity of up to 1.2 gigawatts.

Montana

Greg Gianforte (R), Montana's governor and a former software entrepreneur who founded RightNow Technologies, later acquired by Oracle, has approached AI from a business perspective.

In 2025, he signed Montana's Right to Compute Act, which established legal protections for businesses' use of AI, limiting the government's interference in their use. He also launched 406 JOBS in 2025, a workforce program aimed at modernizing the state's workforce.

Nebraska

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen (R), up for reelection, like several other governors, has expressed that locals shouldn't front the bill for energy costs stemming from data centers.

In July, Pillen ended access to certain state tax incentives for data centers and created a task force to examine their impact on water, electricity, and local infrastructure.

"Early in my administration, I called for a pause in building new data centers, and this executive order is consistent with that call," Pillen wrote in a press release. "Data centers are a booming industry. Major tech companies are pouring hundreds of billions of dollars into them. And while that presents significant economic opportunity, it also presents resource challenges."

Nevada

Joe Lombardo (R), Nevada's governor up for reelection, has emphasized the economic opportunity AI data centers bring for the state.

In September, he signed an executive order requiring data center developers to cover project-related energy costs. The order also aims to support public schools and protect the state's water resources.

Lombardo has said he supports data centers because they bring jobs, investment, and economic growth to the state.

"At the same time, we have to put the right parameters in place to ensure they don't raise costs on Nevada residents or businesses," he wrote in a May Facebook post. "As Governor, I'm focused on growing our economy responsibly while protecting rates for families."

New Hampshire

New Hampshire Gov. Kelly Ayotte (R), who is up for reelection, has shown skepticism toward data centers due to the amount of energy they require.

In August, Ayotte said she supported a moratorium on data centers, arguing that New Hampshire does not have enough energy capacity to support them without hiking up electricity costs. She also said she is opposed to a potential data center being built in Bow, a small town in central New Hampshire.

New Jersey

In September, New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill (D) issued a $1.07 million fine to the DataOne data center in Vineland, holding that the data center violated the New Jersey Air Pollution Control Act by installing and operating 62 large natural-gas power generators without Department of Environmental Protection permits.

"Data centers will pay their fair share for energy, be accountable for their water and energy use, protect our environment, create good-paying union jobs, and invest in communities," Sherrill wrote on a social media post.

She has signed legislation requiring data centers to report their electricity and water consumption to the Board of Public Utilities every six months, and also has expressed that AI instruction should be embedded into New Jersey's education programs.

New Mexico

In 2025, Michelle Lujan Grisham (D), New Mexico's governor, announced a $1 billion partnership with Meta on a new geothermal plant for the company's data center. Geothermal energy, which is considered a green power source, taps heat beneath Earth's surface to generate electricity; it can also be used directly for heating and cooling.

The $1 billion investment will create 3,000 construction jobs and 100 jobs running the geothermal power plant. New Mexico touts 22 data centers — one of which is Project Jupiter, one of the largest in the US.

The state is home to one of the largest planned data centers in the US, Stargate's Project Jupiter, which could include up to 2.45 gigawatts of Bloom Energy fuel cells, replacing an earlier proposal centered on gas turbines and diesel generators.

New York

Kathy Hochul (D), New York's governor up for reelection, like California Gov. Gavin Newsom, is exploring an AI "kill switch" that would shut off AI systems in a critical event.

In late December 2025, she signed the RAISE Act, which requires AI developers to create and publish information about their safety protocols and to report incidents to the state government within 72 hours of an incident.

Under the law, New York's Attorney General can bring civil actions against developers who fail to submit reports, with penalties rising up to $1 million for the first violation and up to $3 million for subsequent violations.

Hochul also issued an executive order imposing a one-year moratorium on large-scale AI data centers in July to evaluate and address their environmental and community impact.

North Carolina

North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein (D), like many governors, has approached AI as both an economic opportunity and a policy challenge.

His administration's AI Strategic Roadmap, launched in July, aims to protect locals from any harm AI might cause, prepare workers for AI-related changes, and use AI to improve government work.

In a speech announcing the roadmap, Stein said AI can help with government efficiency, such as scanning outdated documents and answering residents' questions, but also emphasized the need to address the risks that come with its usage.

North Dakota

Kelly Armstrong (R), North Dakota's governor, signed legislation in 2025 that limits the role of AI in certain health-care decisions, requiring licensed physicians, rather than algorithms, to make final decisions in some cases.

Armstrong also sees AI as an economic opportunity, holding that North Dakota's natural-gas industry could help supply the energy data centers need.

Similar to Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy, Armstrong believes the state's colder climate can allow AI and data center companies to lower their cooling costs.

Ohio

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (R) said in September that the federal government should enact regulations on AI, not the states.

"Look, as far as AI, this really needs to come from the federal government," DeWine said at an event in New Albany, near Columbus. "We need to have uniformity, not just in this country; we need to have uniformity in the world. So, I would certainly hope we can see some uniformity coming out of Washington."

In May, he also paused new applications for data center tax exemptions amid growing scrutiny of the state's incentives and the costs associated with large facilities.

According to the governor, in 2025, data centers that had been granted sales and use tax benefits in the state reported a total capital investment of $27.2 billion.

The state is home to one of the largest planned data centers in the US, housing Nvidia-backed project PORTS-Pike Technology Campus, which is expected to include up to 10 gigawatts of data-center capacity.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt (R) created an AI task force in 2023 to study how the technology could improve government efficiency, education, and workforce development, and has repeatedly described Oklahoma as a potential AI hub.

Stitt's task force was completed in 2024 and recommended five ways the state can implement AI into its workforce and government, largely by creating oversight, economic, digital, and talent workforce committees that encourage the use of AI across sectors.

"Oklahoma is poised to lead the nation in implementation of artificial intelligence technology, and we have to capitalize on the momentum. Oklahoma truly could be the AI capital of the nation," Stitt wrote in a 2024 press release.

Like other governors, he aims to protect ratepayers from increasing energy costs related to data centers, but also has stated that he supports the construction of data centers, highlighting property rights and the free market.

Oregon

Oregon's Tina Kotek (D), who is up for reelection, has said states cannot wait for federal action on AI.

In September, Kotek issued an executive order similar to those of California Gov. Gavin Newsom and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, directing the state to assess the viability of a "kill switch" requirement for frontier AI models.

"It's encouraging to hear AI companies are beginning to come forward with proposals to address safety concerns, but we cannot simply wait for the private sector to self-regulate a technology that poses such an existential and evolving risk," Kotek wrote in a press release.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D), up for reelection, said at a September AI Horizons Summit that he sees AI's potential to improve productivity and public services, but argued that the technology needs stronger guardrails.

"I want to be clear: I am not a doomer," he said at the summit. "I don't think it is inevitable that AI is going to take over the world or that someone will misuse it to kill us or do harm."

He also cracked down on data centers in August, saying that data center proposals are scaring and changing the character of Pennsylvania communities.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee (D) created an AI task force and Center of Excellence for AI and Data in 2024, both in an effort to study how AI could increase government efficiency and improve public services.

"Rhode Island recognizes that the rise of AI technology will enhance future government operations and change the way we do business," McKee wrote in a press release. "Rather than simply react to the changes in the information technology landscape, I want Rhode Island to be a leader as this field evolves."

South Carolina

Beginning in early 2024, Henry McMaster (R), South Carolina's governor, was the chair of the Southern Regional Education Board Commission on Artificial Intelligence in Education.

In his role, McMaster convened with other education and business leaders to chart a course for the use of AI in classrooms and to prepare the workforce for the technology.

"When used correctly, AI is a powerful tool capable of reshaping our education system," McMaster wrote. "By working together, we can overcome the challenges that AI presents and harness its power to ensure our students are prepared for the workforce of the future."

In general, McMaster is cautious toward rushing into government regulation on AI, arguing that politicians do not have a complete understanding yet of its benefits and drawbacks.

Regarding his view on data centers, McMaster said in late September that he does not plan to call for a statewide data center moratorium.

The state houses three of Google's data centers, which opened in 2007. In 2024, the company announced it would establish two new data center campuses in the state, a combined investment of $3.3 billion.

"Google's latest investment will strengthen South Carolina's position as an emerging leader in technology and innovation," McMaster wrote in a statement.

South Dakota

South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden (R), who is up for reelection, has also banned Chinese apps from state devices.

In 2025, Rhoden signed a bill making it a Class 1 misdemeanor to disseminate an undisclosed deepfake intended to injure a candidate within 90 days of an election, punishable by up to a year in jail, a $2,000 fine, or both.

He is one of several governors who signed a bill that protects residents from increased utility costs caused by data centers.

Tennessee

Bill Lee (R), Tennessee's governor, signed the ELVIS Act — Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security Act — in 2024 to protect musicians from being cloned or replicated by AI without consent.

Tennessee was the first state in the US to legally protect artists and musicians from deepfakes. Lee also signed a bill earlier this year that prohibits AI developers from falsely posing as qualified mental health professionals.

The state is home to one of the largest planned data centers in the US, xAI's Colossus 2, which powers Grok, the AI chatbot on X, and is expected to deliver 1.5 gigawatts in capacity.

Texas

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R), up for reelection, has shifted his views toward AI over the past year.

Less than a year ago, Abbott welcomed the plethora of Big Tech companies constructing data centers across the state, calling Texas the "epicenter of AI development."

But with growing backlash toward the uptick in electric and water costs for locals, Abbott has shifted his perspective on data centers, saying that the companies building them "dug their own grave" by failing to also build community support.

In August, Abbott announced that OpenAI would comply with his established data center guidelines, including not passing on costs to Texans or interfering with their quality of life.

The state houses several of the US' largest planned data centers, including Meta's El Paso data center and Fermi America's Project Matador, the latter pursuing up to 17 gigawatts of private power.

Utah

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox (R) called on Congress in September to establish guidelines on AI, including mandatory reporting of major safety incidents, whistleblower protections for tech employees, independent safety evaluations for models, and restrictions on the sale of advanced AI chips to China.

"We can build the world's most advanced AI here in America while ensuring it remains firmly in service of humanity," Cox wrote on X.

In May, he issued an order establishing a "higher bar" for future data center projects following public backlash against his support for a project near Salt Lake City. The order requires greater transparency and protections for water, air quality, the Great Salt Lake, local communities, and utility customers.

Vermont

Vermont Gov. Phil Scott (R), who is up for reelection, is one of many governors who established a task force to assess how AI might shape the state's economy.

In June, Scott's administration partnered with Anthropic through Vermont's Agency of Digital Services to test state IT systems for security vulnerabilities. The agreement gives the state $100,000 in credits for Claude Code, Anthropic's AI tool.

He also signed legislation requiring disclosure of deceptive and fraudelent AI-generated content used in election campaigns within 90 days of an election.

Virginia

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger is one of several governors who believe states should lead on AI risk assessments rather than wait for Washington to act.

"The federal government needs to play a much larger role in regulating this emerging technology to ensure its safe development and the protection of people and their livelihoods," Spanberger wrote in September.

She created a state AI Task Force in September to examine workforce displacement, data privacy, cybersecurity, and ways existing laws can address AI-related harms.

Regarding data centers, Virginia has the largest data market in the US with over 100,000 jobs and over $40 billion in investments, according to the Northern Virginia Technology Council.

Spanberger recently unveiled a Data Center Accountability Framework, requiring centers to pay their own transmission costs, strengthen environmental and water-use protections, and give communities more input on proposed developments.

Washington

Bob Ferguson (D), Washington's governor, has expressed concern over children's safety when using AI.

Earlier this year, he signed legislation that requires disclosures that people are interacting with AI, safeguards around self-harm content, and protections for minors from sexually explicit conversations.

Ferguson also signed a bill that requires covered AI providers to include provenance data in AI-generated or materially altered images, video, and audio.

West Virginia

West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey (R) has said he views the state as a "powerhouse" for AI and cloud computing, announcing earlier this year that Penzance Management will invest $4 billion in an AI campus in Berkeley County, about 75 miles northwest of Washington, DC.

"By earning the state's first High Impact Intelligence Center designation, Penzance is helping us transform the Mountain State into a powerhouse for artificial intelligence and cloud computing," he wrote in a statement. "This project brings a massive new revenue stream to our communities - all driven by private capital and our commitment to a business-friendly, reliable energy strategy."

Morrisey has also supported AI health tools that reduce administrative work for rural providers.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers (D) has focused his approach toward AI on how it affects the workforce.

In 2023, he created the Governor's Task Force on Workforce and Artificial Intelligence to assess how the technology could reshape Wisconsin jobs, skills, and key industries. Its 2024 action plan focused on preparing workers and institutions for an AI-driven economy.

He has also welcomed data center projects, saying they can be built while still protecting the environment and the local communities.

Wyoming

Mark Gordon (R), Wyoming's governor, sees AI as an opportunity to grow the state's economy, especially through data centers and advanced computing.

Earlier this year, he issued "Data Centers the Wyoming Way," an executive order intended to create a statewide framework for data-center development, including its energy, water, and community impacts.

"While other states hit the pause button out of political fear, we are choosing action and collaboration," Gov. Gordon wrote in a statement to Business Insider. "We are proving America's digital infrastructure can be built the Wyoming Way."

• I was a flight attendant for nearly 10 years and I witnessed some of the worst passenger behaviors.
• I saw far too many people go to the lavatory barefoot or blast music without headphones.
• We also know if you've snuck into an empty business-class seat.

I worked as a flight attendant on long-haul international routes for nearly a decade — and I got an unfiltered, front-row seat to some of the worst passenger etiquette in commercial air travel.

Most people want a peaceful trip, but small habits can quickly turn a flight into a nightmare for everyone nearby.

Looking back at my years in the sky, here are the main things I wish passengers would stop doing on flights.

Pillows, blankets, and safety gear aren't personal souvenirs

Depending on the aircraft layout, economy passengers often walked through business class during boarding. I frequently caught people grabbing business-class pillows, premium headphones, or plush blankets on their way back to their seats.

Others tried to pack away cabin blankets and safety cards and even pull life vests from under their seats as souvenirs. My crew had to count all those items. Missing life vests meant delaying the flight to replace them, and missing blankets created real supply headaches for our colleagues on the next leg.

You won't get away with sneaking into empty premium seats

After the boarding doors closed, I often saw passengers spot an empty business-class seat and try to sneak into it. This almost always happened on long overnight flights when the cabin lights went dim, and people thought we wouldn't notice.

But as crew, we always knew our cabin layout inside out and exactly how many passengers were booked in business class. Asking someone to pack up their things and move back to economy in front of a quiet cabin was never a fun moment.

At least wear shoes to the lavatory

I used to see passengers take off their shoes and walk down the aisle in socks — and sometimes barefoot — on almost every single flight.

The cabin floor collects endless dust and dirt tracked in from busy airport terminals. More importantly, I can tell you from experience that the liquid on the lavatory floor is rarely just water.

Leaving a mess in that tiny space or hogging it is also unfair to the passengers waiting in line right behind you. I always kept my own shoes on and constantly advised passengers to wear shoes or at least light slip-ons whenever they left their seats.

We know if you try to join the "mile high club"

Speaking of airplane restrooms, many passengers still think that joining the "mile high club" is a cool story. But from my perspective working in the cabin, it's just bad flight manners.

Airplane bathrooms are tiny and definitely not soundproof. My team and I always knew the exact second two people walked in together, while everyone waiting in line outside had to stand there awkwardly.

We can also unlock those doors from the outside in an emergency, which turned more than one "romantic" attempt into a very embarrassing conversation.

Be mindful of food smells in the cabin

On long international flights, I saw passengers bring all kinds of home-cooked meals on board. But in a confined cabin, intense food smells can quickly become noticeable to everyone nearby. Once a strong smell spread through the cabin, there wasn't much the crew could do to fix it.

While I understand preferring your own hot food to the airline's, I always recommended saving home-cooked meals for the terminal and packing cold, low-odor snacks, like nuts or simple sandwiches, for the flight.

The galley isn't a public lounge or personal dump zone

The galley was our only operational workspace on the aircraft. It was where my team prepped meals, ran safety checks, and snatched brief moments to drink water or eat a quick snack. When passengers used our small kitchen to stretch, linger, or drop off sticky garbage, it crowded our only private spot.

At the end of the day, an airplane is just a flying community for a few hours. Bring your headphones, keep your socks on, and show some kindness to your crew and fellow travelers.

Use headphones and turn off speakerphone

Noise pollution was one of the most common issues I had to manage in the aisle. With background engine noise, people often don't realize how loud their phones are. I completely get it — traveling by plane feels exciting, and it's totally natural to want to call your friends or family right from your seat to share all the excitement before takeoff.

But doing that on speakerphone, or blasting phone games and video reels, forces your entire row to listen to every single detail. I can't tell you how many times I had to ask grown adults to switch to headphones.

Don't direct frustration at the parents of crying babies

To me, mothers traveling by themselves with little kids are among most vulnerable passengers on any flight.

Unfortunately, passengers often had zero patience for infants. Babies can experience ear discomfort during pressure changes, particularly during takeoff and landing. The moment a baby began to cry, people immediately asked me to move them away.

As a mother myself, I know the stress on those parents. Whenever a mom or dad needed a quick breath, and I had time between duties, I'd pull kids into the galley for snacks and entertainment.

Pay attention to the safety demonstration

I know what frequent flyers think: "I've seen this video a hundred times, what could be new?" Even with fancy safety videos on seatback screens, I constantly saw passengers scroll through their phones or chat right over the sound.

But here's what I always wanted to tell them: You might fly often, but you don't fly on the same aircraft every time. Every plane model is different, and emergency exits aren't always where you expect them to be.

Taking three short minutes to check where your nearest exit is won't hurt, and it shows the crew some respect for the safety job we are actually trained to do.

• Smit Machchhar, the captain of Flydubai Flight 1073, spoke to India's prime minister on Friday.
• In a video call from the hospital, he described how he opened the cockpit door after being stabbed.
• Machchhar has been hailed a hero for helping stop his fellow pilot from crashing the plane.

The Flydubai captain who was stabbed by his copilot has described how he fought to save the airplane with nearly 180 passengers.

"Even with my eyes closed, I know exactly what is happening in the cockpit. When I was lying on the floor, I could sense the aircraft was going down," Smit Machchhar told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Hindi in a video published Friday.

On Wednesday, Flydubai Flight 1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv suddenly dropped more than 15,000 feet before passengers and crew members subdued the first officer, and the plane safely diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

"I knew for a fact that if I could just give the door one last push, that was the only chance, and even then, I was taking a beating," Machchhar said on a video call from the hospital, which was widely translated into English.

"I just managed to open it. Everyone else arrived, and they all played their part too," he added.

"I was acting to save my own life, of course, but at the same time, I knew I couldn't let everyone else die."

After landing, the other pilot was arrested, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement. He also called Machchhar a "true hero."

Machchhar said he has been a pilot for 17 years and a captain for the last 11 years. His LinkedIn profile shows he began his career at SpiceJet, an Indian budget airline, before joining Flydubai four years ago.

The passengers who helped regain control of the airplane — Yaniv Hayun, Or Pardilov, Shota Musayev, and his wife Sigalit — met with Netanyahu on Thursday. They described tying the first officer with a headphone cable.

"I salute these heroes, who displayed exceptional resourcefulness and courage," Netanyahu said. "They saved many lives. They prevented a huge disaster."

• Almog Italie and his family were on Flydubai flight FZ1073.
• Italie said the plane dropped rapidly, like a "rollercoaster."
• "In situations like this, you have to remain calm to stay alive," he said.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Almog Italie, 52, who works in digital marketing and lives in Ness Ziona, Israel. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

On September 30, my family was traveling back from a two-week holiday in Japan with Flydubai.

It was a terrific vacation, but we had some bad weather, including an earthquake and a typhoon. It was a very extreme trip. Then, on our way back, our airplane dived.

Our stopover was in Dubai, and we were meant to land in Tel Aviv, not too far from where we live. But our plane started descending rapidly near the end of the journey, and there was a disturbance in the cockpit.

Initially, we thought it was an attack, but we don't know the facts, and we don't have conclusions yet.

I would never have imagined something like this would happen on our way home from vacation.

The sudden descent on board was quite scary

My wife, two children, and I were on the plane together. At first, it was a smooth flight. As we reached the Jordanian border, the airplane suddenly began to drop rapidly. It was descending very quickly like a roller coaster. It was quite scary.

At first, we thought we hit some turbulence, but I didn't hear any alerts from the pilot asking us to buckle up. We also realized it was too much of a disruption to be turbulence. I didn't see the masks come down. Maybe we didn't lose pressure.

The airplane seemed to balance for a while before descending again. I saw people rushing to the cockpit, and after a few minutes, somebody came and told us that one of the pilots had stabbed another pilot. They said the person now piloting the flight was looking for an airport where we could land. From what I could tell, it was a small handful of passengers who helped take control. They told all the passengers to be prepared, because we might have a rough landing.

During the descent, my family and I were trying to buckle up and save our lives. When the plane started ascending again, there was a massive force, which made it hard to even sit. My back was sticking to the chair.

I tried to make a joke to my kids, who are 13 and 16, that this was just an extension of the roller coaster they rode at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka a few days ago. They laughed, but they also understood it was a scary moment. We tried to be calm and not panic.

I never had a thought that I might die, but as I process what happened, I might understand that I was in a critical situation.

It will take some time to process what happened

The flight was diverted to Saudi Arabia. It was a big relief to land, and we got a warm welcome from the authorities on the ground. They took care of medical stuff, food, and whatever was needed. It was much appreciated.

To my understanding, one pilot stabbed another pilot, and the pilot who was attacked managed to open the door. A few passengers ran inside, managed to knock down the attacker, and balance the plane.

From a distance, I saw the injured pilot being taken out of the plane to go to the hospital.

We still needed to get back to Tel Aviv. We waited for what felt like somewhere between five and eight hours for a replacement flight. Now that we're home, we need to process what happened. It will take some days, for sure.

This event won't stop me from traveling

I'm a traveler. I've been all around the world. I can't be stopped by a rare occasion or event like this.

What worked well was that once the plane was balanced, people on the flight stayed in their seats and didn't panic. Staying in your seats and listening to orders is the way to be.

In situations like this, you have to remain calm to stay alive.

In a public statement, a Flydubai spokesperson said: "We are fully committed to supporting the ongoing investigation and maintaining the highest safety standards across our network."

• Ryan Lowe lives with his parents in Massachusetts and recently worked two jobs.
• The 27-year-old wants to retire in his 40s and spend time traveling.
• He's saved up almost $300,000.

This as-told-to essay is based on conversations with Ryan Lowe, a 27-year-old living in Massachusetts who shared documentation of his savings with Business Insider. His words have been lightly edited for length and clarity.

I want to retire early. So I tried working two jobs — an office finance job during the day and as a product sorter in a grocery store at night. I also live with my parents and drive a 20-year-old Toyota Camry.

I'm 27. I don't drink, I don't smoke, and I don't go out to parties. My parents buy the groceries. A lot of people would look at my lifestyle and say that I'm a bum, and they're not wrong.

Over the years, though, I've saved up nearly $300,000.

I get paid between $1,100 and $1,200 every week from both gigs, and I usually put $1,000 of that paycheck into the S&P 500. It's a very safe long-term investment. If that were to crash, then we'd have bigger issues than my retirement fund.

I'm hoping to retire in my 40s and spend time traveling. When I'm not traveling, I want to have a chill, quiet lifestyle — just like I do now.

The grocery store was unsustainable

I quit my job at Stop & Shop three weeks ago.

I wanted to stay, but the time I spent commuting was starting to add up. I also didn't have time for important things, like working out and eating good food.

I loved my job in the grocery store. It was just me in my own world, and it was as easy as it gets. The managers were usually gone, and they would leave notes for me.

I previously had another grocery store job at Whole Foods. That worked because, at the time, my finance job had a hybrid schedule.

Now, however, I have to go into the office in Boston every day. I work in East Boston, and I'm salaried, so I'm limited to 40 hours a week no matter how much I want to work. For a whole week, I was spending 12 hours commuting on the Mass Pike.

I recently went on a trip to the Italian Alps, and while I was there, I was thinking to myself, I don't want to go back to doing that with driving every day and working two jobs.

I'm looking for another side hustle I can do at night — hopefully something that pays more than minimum wage.

Right now I'm just taking it easy.

It's important to strike the right balance.

Ever since my high school days, I've been really busy, working extra jobs over the summer.

Sometimes when I'm just sitting around, I think to myself that I could be making extra money.

I also emphasize, however, that it's important to strike a healthy balance between working and relaxing. People assume I just work, work, work — and that isn't true.

I've been on multiple trips this year, I go swimming, I play sports with friends, and I'm a big football fan. Every Sunday, I go over to my friend's house and we watch football.

One day, I hope I can visit every country in the world and every US national park. I love the peace and quiet of nature and the exercise hiking brings.

Making content

I don't like to talk about it at work, but I make videos about my lifestyle and post them on Instagram and TikTok. I have 15,000 followers on Instagram.

My content mostly revolves around personal finance, saving money, investing, and documenting my journey toward early retirement.

I do it to inspire others and talk about something that I've loved for a few years. I've always kind of wanted to share my perspective and what I enjoy about finance, and, more importantly, to document my journey.

My lifestyle definitely isn't for everyone, but it has connected with some people. I've met a lot of cool people from my videos, and I've gone on hikes and to concerts with some of them.

It's pretty cool what you can do and the people you can meet online just by posting about stuff you like.

• Jeremy Spiegel has been searching for full-time work for more than two years.
• He said the job search has taken a toll on his finances, confidence, and social life.
• He shared what he's learned after more than two years of job searching.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Jeremy Spiegel, a job seeker in his 40s who lives in Massachusetts. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

In my job search, I've been told so many times a version of "It's not you, it's us!" that I'm beginning to wonder if it is, in fact, me.

I've been without a full-time job for more than two years since losing my regional director of account services role at a publishing company. The lasting impact of my job search has been devastating to my ego and self-worth in ways I simply did not think could happen.

I believe I was excellent at my job. I was confident. Decisive. Passionate. I inspired other people. Those were things I could hang my hat on.

Today, I feel alone. I hesitate. I worry.

I avoid going out and socializing, something I used to very much enjoy. I fear someone will ask about my job search. Or someone new may ask the most innocuous question in the world: "What do you do for work?"

The only other time I lost my job was in 2009 during the Great Recession. I had less than five years of experience, and I found a new job quickly.

Now, I have more than 20 years of experience, and I'm still searching.

My job search has put a strain on my family

A year into my unemployment, a family member asked whether I thought I had offended anyone at the companies I was applying to. In his mind, that seemed the only explanation for my unemployment. I had to explain, as I have to others, that there isn't just one reason why the job search is so challenging for many right now. It's complicated and overwhelming.

I was very successful during the first half of my career. It's because of that that my family hasn't had to make any major financial decisions or drastically change our lifestyle.

We're not in immediate danger of losing anything. But as with everything, that security is finite. My wife works, but her salary wouldn't sustain us, so I still need to contribute significantly from our savings.

While we've been able to get by, we've still had to cut back on certain things. We used to be a two-car family. We're now a one-car family. The trip to Disney World that my son keeps wanting, we keep having to put off.

That is probably the single hardest thing in the world to deal with: watching your child be disappointed and thinking you're the one who's disappointing them.

Though we've been fortunate financially compared with many people, my job search has strained my marriage in ways almost nothing else ever has. I worry about our dwindling savings, I fear looking at our bank accounts, and many nights, I wake up in the middle of the night thinking about how I have let my family down.

I've contemplated just about everything

I generally spend two to two and a half hours a day searching for jobs. I've been applying to everything from individual-contributor level account executive and solutions engineer roles up to more senior management or direction positions.

Most of my work previously has been in edtech and the public sector, but I'm trying to throw my hat in the ring at companies in other sectors where my experience is relevant. If I see a job where I meet most of the applicant requirements, even if I'm overqualified, I'll apply.

I've even contemplated starting a business. But I keep applying to jobs, because, whether it fulfills me or not, I believe a traditional job is the most secure way to have employment and make a living in this world right now.

I've had several interviews, but haven't managed to land a job. There have been a few opportunities where I felt like I was getting close, only for them not to work out. Unfortunately, something like that delivers nothing but an even longer résumé gap for people to question.

I feel like I'm back to square one

There has been a silver lining to all this.

I've met extraordinary people, including many who have gone through — or are currently going through — the same thing as me. They've given me unexpected and badly needed friendship and support.

I've also learned that you have to give yourself some time off. You have to let yourself relax and be OK with not job searching every minute. Otherwise, you can get burned out.

As for my own search, through the late spring and early summer, I had some really good concrete opportunities. But through a Lemony Snicket series of unfortunate events, it did not go through.

So right now, I kind of feel like I'm back to square one. I've had a lot of résumés out and a couple of callbacks with recruiters, but nothing substantial. I think, unless you've dealt with this job market, everyone has this view of what searching for a job is like: Yeah, it stinks, but at worst it'll be a couple of months.

That's just not what this is.

Every morning, I get up, put one foot in front of the other, and repeat the motivating closing line from the 2000 movie "Boiler Room":

"I gotta find a job."

• Mobile sports betting has become New York's second-largest driver of gambling revenue.
• The rise of prediction markets, which aren't taxed the same in the state, could be a revenue hit.
• More problem gamblers and gamblers turning to prediction markets could cause financial strain.

New York has turned mobile sports betting via apps like DraftKings and FanDuel into a lucrative source of state revenue. This raises a question for lawmakers and state finances: Can platforms that offer sports-related contracts compete with sportbooks — and avoid the state's 51% tax rate?

In the first quarter of 2026, mobile sports betting brought in around $328 million in tax receipts for the state, according to a report from the state comptroller's office. Nationwide, New York accounts for a third of all state tax collections on sports betting revenues.

But prediction markets like Polymarket and Kalshi have begun offering sports gamblers a new way to play — and they are taxed at a lower federal level. Early evidence from DraftKings suggests those platforms might be attracting different customers — a company spokesperson said in a statement that only about 1% of its sportbook customers overlap with Kalshi in states where sports betting is legal.

Even still, if 1% of sportsbook activity in New York moved to prediction markets, it could result in a $13 million revenue hit, according to an analysis from the Tax Policy Center.

"For a user, it's not clear that engaging in activity on a prediction market is a substantially different activity than placing a wager on a mobile sports betting platform," said Maria Doulis, the New York State deputy comptroller for budget and policy analysis. "But from the state's perspective, those two activities are taxed differently and can yield two different outcomes."

Prediction markets argue that they fall under federal oversight as derivatives exchanges, rather than being subject to state gambling laws.

Most recently, New York moved to sue Polymarket, with Governor Kathy Hochul saying that she'll "always stand up for New Yorkers when bad corporate actors prey on consumers and threaten tax dollars that fund schools and critical public services."

Prediction markets' growth has accelerated since they added sports. Trading volume on Kalshi rose nearly thirteenfold a year after it added sports contracts. And Polymarket also saw skyrocketing growth after adding sports to its platform, according to a report from the New York State Comptroller.

Kalshi also disputes that its growth is eating traditional sportsbook revenue.

"We can operate under federal regulation while continuing to generate vital tax revenue for states," Dani Lever, a spokesperson for Kalshi, said in a statement.

New York doesn't just face revenue loss from prediction markets capturing sportsbook customers. It's also responsible for costs associated with gambling activity. Calls to a state gambling hotline have risen 8.5% since 2020, and New York has already doubled its funding for problem gambling services from $6 million to $12 million, per the Comptroller.

And even traditional sportsbooks have their own volatility. Ironically, the New York Knicks' historic NBA finals win was a loss for sportsbook platforms. Since the Knicks were underdogs going into the series, their eventual upset meant mobile sportsbooks lost $14.4 million in gross revenue.

Larger scale, though, any volatility in what's been fairly consistent sportsbook revenue could sting for New York.

"The state will make conservative assumptions on what it expects from gaming activities, but if there is some volatility, or these prediction markets really soar and affect the revenues from sports betting, then it will have revenue implication for the state," Doulis said.

• Accenture earnings showed companies aren't simply buying AI bots — they still need help making them useful.
• Consulting stocks are bouncing back as AI's former victims become its installers.
• Sign up for First Trade, Business Insider's daily markets newsletter.

When it became clear that AI was going to be an unprecedented world-transforming force, investors were quick to write off entire industries. Goodbye, software. And consulting? Doomed to be replaced by the machines. The stock losses were swift and unforgiving.

In the time since, both industries — and many others briefly afflicted by AI mania — have made their way back. The ball has been in their court to prove themselves, and the number of reclamation stories is growing.

Accenture became the latest comeback kid on Thursday after reporting an across-the-board earnings beat. Investors keyed in on evidence that the company is successfully adjusting to the AI boom. More than 400 clients began advanced-AI projects during its fiscal year, showing that businesses are paying Accenture to put the technology to work at scale.

The company was rewarded with a 16% single-day stock surge, bringing its recovery to 71% from a nearly nine-year low reached in June.

The rebound is rippling outward. Cognizant, another IT-services company that was swept into the June sell-off, has also rallied sharply off its own low. Its shares jumped another 6% on Thursday alongside Accenture's results.

So not only is AI not crushing the consulting industry, it's actually fueling a new line of business installing AI systems. It's the type of adaptability that investors like to see.

Remember the SaaSpocalypse?

Consulting is hardly the first sector to turn the AI-cannibalization narrative on its head. Software has also been blazing a trail back to prominence, with companies like Salesforce, ServiceNow, Workday, and CrowdStrike leveraging AI in different ways to juice growth, rather than being squashed.

Of course, there is some nuance required. The firms that perform critical data, workflow, or security tasks have most clearly shown that AI can be applied to their business in a positive way.

A wave of AI-apocalypse fears has made cybersecurity the best-performing theme within software in recent weeks. Meanwhile, the shares of more pure-play developers are still working their way back to positive territory for the year. Investors shouldn't get too far ahead of themselves quite yet.

Somebody has to install the future

Enter consultants, who are proving themselves to be connective tissue between new AI software tools and actual adoption. Companies need help figuring out how to use AI, integrate agents into existing systems, and retrain workers.

Accenture's results suggest firms are willing to pay for help with AI. They're not simply buying a bot and firing everyone. It reflects an emerging investment theme: "AI survivors" that can generate upside by controlling workflows and making the technology usable.

After all, while everyone rushes to automate the world, someone still has to make sure it all works.

• If you're looking for a job, having contacts at an employer can help you be ready when a role opens.
• Building a relationship can help you avoid the application cattle call, one career coach said.
• A warm introduction can be "worth its weight in gold" during a crowded job search, a recruiter said.

The best way to beat the line for a job is to get there before it forms.

Talking with an employer before the company ever posts a job — and not after — could help you land a role there, said veteran career coach Laura Labovich.

She recommends that job seekers identify where they want to work, examine their network for any ties to the organization, and start building relationships inside well before a job post goes up.

"The way to win is to not apply. Get in before they have the opening. Make connections. Become an insider," Labovich said.

If you wait until you see a job post before reaching out to an employer, you might already be too late, she said. That's because once a role is posted, recruiters or HR will often feel compelled to tell you to apply online — even if they already know you — to ensure that every candidate gets equal consideration, Labovich said.

Getting in line with everybody else can make the process seem "more like a cattle call," she said.

'Worth its weight in gold'

Aside from the stress it can bring, the take-a-number approach is also rarely the best path to landing a role, as almost anyone looking for a desk job in the AI era can attest.

The average job posting received 244 applications in 2025, according to an analysis by the hiring software company Greenhouse of more than 640 million applications from 6,000-plus companies. That was up from 116 applications per job in 2022.

Having someone who can pass your résumé to a recruiter or hiring manager and help you stand out is "worth its weight in gold" when there are so many people looking for jobs, said Rick Wargo, managing partner of the global technology practice at the recruitment firm Boyden.

"A warm introduction is always the best way to go about a job search," he said.

Don't fix the roof when it's raining

Naturally, if a job has yet to be posted, you can't make a pitch for it. Still, that doesn't mean you're powerless. What you can do is consider whether the employer has hired for the kinds of jobs you might want — and use that to guide early outreach.

That's why, Wargo said, it's smart to start networking and making connections inside key companies well before you need a job.

"You don't go to fix the roof when it's raining," he said.

To beat the rush that often occurs when an employer lists an opening, you can contact people at your level within an organization and ask questions such as "How do you like your job?" "How do you like the organization?" and "How did you get to where you did?" said Labovich, who runs Career Strategy Group, an outplacement firm in the Washington, DC, area.

If it's someone higher up the food chain — potentially someone who might be the hiring manager for a future job — the ask should be smaller, she said.

"You don't want to say, 'I want a job,' because if you're getting to them early, there's no job yet," Labovich said. Instead, she recommends that job seekers seek advice, insight, recommendations, and referrals.

That contact can pay off: Messaging a hiring manager nearly triples your chance of getting hired, LinkedIn has reported.

Ultimately, Labovich said, making connections inside an organization is one of the best ways to navigate a hiring process that often feels broken.

The challenge of standing out — and the ease of using AI tools to blast out your résumé — has led many job seekers to apply to as many roles as possible, even though many career coaches, including Labovich, urge people to prioritize networking instead.

"The way to apply for a job these days is to not apply for a job," she said.

Do you have a story to share about your career? Contact this reporter at tparadis@businessinsider.com

An earlier version of this story appeared on October 2, 2025.

• Lucy Zheng has experimented with multiple ventures, from a fashion blog to a bounce-house business.
• Not all of them took off. Some flops include leather hats and recycled-plastic tote bags.
• Zheng has 10 income streams, and says user-generated content is a low-cost way to start earning on the side.

Lucy Zheng has been building side businesses since 2012, when she was looking to supplement the income from her first job out of law school and pay down student loans.

Her first project was a fashion blog. "Blogging was a huge thing back in 2012," she told Business Insider. It was also cheap to get into. Aside from a "semi-decent camera," she said, "there was virtually no cost."

Over the past 14 years, Zheng and her husband have tried a range of ventures, from Etsy shops to a bounce-house business.

Not all of them worked, but each venture gave Zheng skills she used to inform the next. Her fashion blog taught her website-building and graphic-design skills, which she and her husband used to create a physical wedding planner. Later, their experience importing the planners and working with overseas factories helped them start a real estate sign business.

"Everything builds on stuff we did in the past," she said.

Her biggest flops

More than a decade of side hustling has inevitably brought failures.

Zheng and her husband once tried to sell tote bags made from recycled plastic. They bought about 50 bags, built a website, and promoted the business on social media, but after about three months with no sales, they shut it down.

A men's leather-hat business also failed to take off.

"Businesses with physical products and inventory, especially in the fashion space, are not an easy thing to get into," Zheng said. "If you don't have a really good, solid plan of action, it can be very hard to keep running."

The push toward more passive income streams

Zheng has also shut down businesses that made money but proved too time-intensive. Her fashion blog, for instance, generated income through sponsored posts and advertising, but only when she was actively creating content.

"If I wasn't working on a blog post, then I wouldn't be making money," she said. That realization led her to YouTube. The longer-form videos took time to make, but could continue to generate ad revenue even years after she uploaded them.

Zheng also ran a profitable Etsy planner shop for five years, selling digital inserts and physical accessories. It generated six figures, she said, but she shut it down in 2025 after fulfillment, inventory management, and the development of new designs became too time-intensive.

Just because something is profitable doesn't mean it's automatically worth scaling, she said. When she shut down the planner shop, her goal was: "How can I make more money using less of my time?"

That led her back to content creation, which now brings in money through five main channels: brand deals and user-generated content, affiliate marketing, digital products, platform payments, and a paid community. Zheng said the business has grown to match her legal income, though it remains active work.

"You have to create the videos and make the content," she said. "If I go on vacation, if I get sick, I can't make the videos — and if I don't make videos for long enough, the money's going to stop."

Her long-term goal is to build income streams that don't depend on her daily output. She plans to keep investing in rental properties — she owns long-term rentals in Detroit — and is working to build a paid community and newsletter that are less dependent on her.

"The day that I feel truly financially independent is the day that I can cover my family's living expenses through passive income," she said.

A low-cost way to start earning side money

Zheng said the best place to start depends on the resources you have. For people with excess savings but little free time, she said she's had success with options trading, focusing on covered calls and cash-secured puts. Those strategies require capital and carry risk, however.

For people with time but little money to invest, she recommends content creation — specifically, user-generated content, or UGC.

UGC creators make videos for brands to use on their own social-media accounts or in advertising. Unlike traditional influencer deals, the creator does not necessarily need to have an audience or post the video on their own account.

To get started, Zheng recommends making three or four sample videos that demonstrate your editing and storytelling skills. You can then use them as part of your portfolio when pitching to brands or applying for gigs.

The equipment requirements are modest: a smartphone, a roughly $10 tripod, and, if you need to film at night, a $15-to-$20 ring light. Editing tools such as CapCut and Instagram Edits are free.

"You just film videos on your own time," she said, "edit them with free software, and then start pitching yourself."

• United Airlines is trying to lure Delta and American's elite travelers with a status-match offer.
• United is pitching faster on board internet alongside its status-match offer.
• Some Delta frequent fliers say Starlink WiFi could persuade them to switch.

If you're a loyal Delta flier, you're one of United Airlines' hottest targets right now.

United went on the offensive this week, offering eligible elite members of Delta Air Lines and American Airlines a loyalty status match.

Some Delta customers have complained online that the company needs to offer better products to retain its frequent fliers, including smoother internet service.

United's X account replied to several complaints, encouraging them to consider switching.

David Hansson, a programmer and writer, wrote in an X post that he would be convinced to switch from Delta to United because of Starlink access. Delta has opted not to use Starlink on its planes, a decision that has riled Elon Musk and given United an in.

"I'm a @delta Diamond Medallion flier, and I'm generally happy with the airline, but the one thing that could make me switch to @united is Starlink," Hansson wrote on Wednesday. "It's just so much better. Crazy to deny your customers the best just because you don't like Elon."

Others used the moment to poke fun at the airlines' different approaches to onboard WiFi.

"United is a blue collar airline for knowledge workers who need to work on their laptops even when they're on a plane," another X user wrote on the platform.

Josh Kaplan, an investor and startup founder, said on X that he's been a Delta Diamond member for 10 years, but this year will be the last.

"I'm sure complaining about Delta will sound like a champagne problem, but oh well. A few things finally broke me," Kaplan wrote, citing difficult upgrades, long lounge lines, unreliable WiFi, chaotic boarding, and steep fares.

United isn't alone. American Airlines also launched a status-match promotion on Wednesday. The carrier plans to begin installing Starlink WiFi on more than 500 narrow-body aircraft beginning in the first quarter of 2027, it said in May.

The moves underscore how fiercely the biggest US airlines are competing for high-value frequent fliers, whose spending on premium cabins, airline credit cards, and business travel makes them some of the industry's most valuable customers.

Status matches are a longstanding tactic airlines use to lure elite travelers from rivals by letting them keep perks.

In its latest campaign, United touted its Starlink WiFi rollout as another reason for frequent fliers to switch.

Some United loyalists say status should be earned

United's offer has drawn pushback from some of its own frequent fliers, who say elite status should be earned through long-term loyalty rather than handed to customers switching from a rival.

"I am United till I die. I might tease but I'm never leaving them," Joe Borelli, managing director of the consultancy firm Chartwell Strategy Group, told Business Insider. "But the loyalty has to work two ways."

Borelli said United has the "best product" — but letting people "skip the line" feels unfair.

"It's not fair for people like me who have had credit cards going back decades, mileage plus accounts for years, who have chosen United over their competitors, even some low cost competitors," he added.

Scott Nations, an investor, market commentator, and author of "The Anxious Investor," concurred.

"I don't blame United, but as a United Gold flyer, I'm going to be angry if I have lower status than someone who's never flown the airline," he wrote in an X post.

In a statement to Business Insider on Thursday, a Delta spokesperson said the airline offers "more fast, free WiFi than any other airline in the world," with nearly 1,300 aircraft equipped.

The spokesperson added that, with transpacific routes coming online soon, Delta will be "the only US airline to provide it across our entire global network."

Delta and United did not respond to further requests for comment from Business Insider sent outside regular business hours.

• Tech CEOs have started saying AI has reached a critical — and highly debated — threshold.
• AGI is typically taken to mean an AI that can match or exceed human intelligence.
• Engineers told Business Insider the term is overblown.

"Welcome to the AGI era," OpenAI president Greg Brockman declared on a call with reporters in September, touting the company's latest AI model. "For me, personally, I do think we're there."

Recently, tech CEOs and people on X alike are throwing around a buzzword that was once a distant, largely theoretical goal for artificial intelligence.

AGI, or artificial general intelligence, is a nebulous term often taken to mean an AI model that can perform a wide variety of tasks as well as or better than a human. Aside from Brockman, influential people who have said we've reached that point include Elon Musk, Sam Altman, and Jensen Huang.

However, others in the industry told Business Insider that the term is, at best, too poorly defined to serve as a meaningful benchmark. At worst, they called claims that AGI is here dishonest marketing practices.

"It's all just marketing talk, and it's complete nonsense," said Peter Voss, who was among the first software engineers to use the term. "If you had AGI right now, we would certainly know it."

What is AGI? And why are tech leaders saying we've reached it?

In 2002, Ben Goertzel was having trouble deciding on a book title for a project on a speculative, versatile type of AI called a "thinking machine," which is capable of, say, beating a human at chess while also learning to drive a car. After reaching out to friends, he settled on the term: "Artificial General Intelligence."

Voss, who contributed a chapter for the book, said such a machine represented a "dream that has really not been realized in AI." The leading chatbots today, he said, have difficulty branching out beyond certain limited capabilities and learning new skills with the same plasticity as humans.

Humans, he said, can learn to work at a call center given one or two days of training. An AGI system should be able to do the same, but current AI systems struggle with such tasks.

"Right now, to try and do even something as simple as customer support, you need billions of dollars of engineering," he said. "You need hundreds of thousands of example conversations, and the results are still very poor."

Still, that hasn't stopped tech CEOs and venture capitalists from crying AGI.

Following the release of OpenAI's Astra model in September — the one Brockman was gushing about — Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang posted a triumphant message on X declaring that "AGI has arrived."

"From ChatGPT to o1 to Astra in 4 years," Huang said. "Congratulations @OpenAI team."

Elon Musk, ever the speculator, posted on X this week in response to a Claude-generated short film. "I really felt the AGI profoundly this time," he said.

Factory CEO Matan Grinberg recently told the Sources podcast that "I think AGI is already here," and that "we are living in a post-AGI world right now."

"We're kind of past that event horizon," he said.

'A marketing term'

Other CEOs, like Anthropic's Dario Amodei, have been more reticent to declare the dawning of the AGI era.

"AGI has never been a well-defined term, for me," he said last year. "I've always thought of it as a marketing term."

Frontier AI companies like Anthropic and OpenAI are under intense financial pressure to showcase ever-more-powerful technology as they prepare for what will likely be blockbuster, trillion-dollar-plus IPOs.

By tapping into futuristic nomenclature that evokes images of fully autonomous, free-thinking robots, as seen in "Star Wars" or "Her," Emily Bender, a professor at the University of Washington, said the companies propagate an "illusion" that chatbots are more advanced than they actually are.

"We have expectations based on those fictional ideas," she said. "It refers to an imagined technology rather than any actually existing technology."

"AGI, like AI, is a marketing term," she added.

Alan Chan, an AI research fellow at GovAI, an AI policy think tank, told Business Insider that AGI isn't the best term to gauge progress because of how vague it can be in practice. Chan said that some definitions of AGI conflate AI's ability to do new things with "the ability to actually do things in the world."

"We might have a system that's really good at coding, but it's just really bad at learning to do new things," Chan said. "So, it's really good at coding, but when we deploy it in a new job, it just takes so much time and effort to train it to actually be good at that job.

"I think when people talk about AGI, they mix those two things together," he added.

Are we getting AGI anytime soon?

If you buy into Voss's definition of AGI, you might have to wait a while for an AI system that can learn to drive a car in 24 hours.

Voss said that the popularity of LLMs with investors and the general public makes it hard to get competing systems off the ground.

"They sucked all of the oxygen out of the air for any other approaches," he said.

Voss isn't the only engineer who has said that the ChatGPT-era strategy of scaling LLMs with more data and chips won't lead to AGI anytime soon.

"You cannot just assume that more data and more compute means smarter AI," Yann LeCun, an "AI godfather" and Meta's former chief AI scientist, said last year.

OpenAI cofounder Ilya Sutskever said in 2025 that the tides of the AI industry will have to shift back to the research phase. "These models somehow just generalize dramatically worse than people," he said. "It's super obvious. That seems like a very fundamental thing."

Others, like Bender, the researcher at the University of Washington, said that AGI, as a concept, is impossible for humans to create.

"A general-purpose thinking machine is not within the realm of possibility," she said. "That would require an approach to engineering that just doesn't work."

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Allie K. Miller, the CEO of Open Machine, based in New York, about her daily routine. It's been edited for length and clarity.

I studied cognitive science at Dartmouth College and completed a three-year independent study in machine learning and natural-language processing, graduating in 2010. I later earned my MBA from Wharton.

In 2016, I joined IBM Watson as a product manager, eventually becoming a lead product manager, and launched IBM's first multimodal AI team. In 2019, I joined Amazon Web Services, where I worked as the global head of machine learning for startups and venture capital for three and a half years.

I founded Open Machine in 2022 after leaving AWS. Open Machine is focused on business transformation at scale. What I want most is for people to rethink how they work and achieve more than just 10%-15% productivity gains.

Here's a day in my life running my company in New York City.

I wake up around 8 a.m.

Because my AI system has been working for me all night, I have the flexibility to stay in bed for the first 30 minutes of my day and avoid 9 a.m. client meetings. That first hour and a half is triage mode, where I look at escalations.

I have a morning briefing that gives me a rundown of the day: the weather, what to wear, and how to manage my energy. It also helps block out work-free time, so I can get deep work done before I have to be out the door.

For my personal life, the briefing also gives outfit ideas based on the local weather and suggests funky activities in whatever city I'm in — a recent San Francisco briefing surfaced pianos scattered through a botanical garden. I want it to help me make room for those experiences, too.

I don't have a set breakfast time, and it's grab-and-go. Today, I had Trader Joe's egg bites. My fridge is filled with protein and sustenance I can grab in less than two minutes. Sometimes I order DoorDash avocado toast.

I have about 34 AI agents working for me

They're connected to my goals, decisions, meeting transcripts, email, Google Docs, Notion, and other contexts. They run off prompts, decide what smart things to do, and then send me a summary email. The same thing happens in Slack, where our Claude agents will ping me with updates.

I use Codex Live Voice Mode — a voice interface for my entire AI workforce — to triage whatever needs my attention. That might mean going through emails, reviewing research papers, or pulling from meeting transcripts and my daily brain dumps to build and edit a client recap.

I don't use live voice every morning, but when I'm doing my makeup, it's a great time to talk through things. Sometimes I'll also catch up on podcasts or YouTube.

By around 10 a.m., I've usually triaged dozens of emails

I've also handled any urgent fires, had at least one internal sync, and done an alignment session with my AI system. From there, I'm focused on prioritized, goal-aligned outcomes. We may be working on programs a few weeks or a month out, but with how quickly AI is moving, we're not really planning a year in advance.

I work from home most days. When possible, I'll go out for what we call a 'Claude walk.' I'll walk for an hour while talking to AI, or catching up on calls with a recruiter, an accountant, an agent, or a client. We also have an AI consulting firm that lets us drop into their office whenever we want, so sometimes we'll work from there.

During lunch, my assistant and I will usually do an energy boost of 60 jumps

Or we'll turn on a karaoke song — today it was ABBA — or laugh about something in pop culture. Lunch is usually DoorDash, and we keep cranking.

Even when I was at Amazon and IBM, I wasn't taking leisurely lunches, so that part hasn't really changed. What has changed is that I can fire off a task to AI and then go eat for 20 minutes.

After lunch, I'll usually meet with one or two clients. I might have press interviews, a keynote, or a board meeting, so almost every day includes some kind of client-facing work.

I want to transform a billion people and businesses

My core revenue comes from working with Fortune 500 enterprises, but I think it's incredibly important to bring those aggregated learnings back to the rest of the world, so the middle of my day is often spent creating social media content.

I'm active across all social platforms, have a popular newsletter ("AI with Allie"), and have started experimenting with daily two to three-minute voice notes to thousands of my followers. I've educated my followers on AI for the last decade and am always thinking about how to deliver the most value to my AI-curious, passionate audience.

At around 2:15, I get a pop-up with my entire inbox triage

There are usually around 30 emails, and I can quickly dictate or type whatever I want to say. Little scheduling and admin tasks like that pop up throughout the day.

My apartment is filled with a thousand colored Post-its

I found a six-foot-long whiteboard on the street that's now in my living room, and it's utter bliss. We'll AirPlay different AI outputs to the TV, and throughout the day, I'm constantly dictating to AI or taking photos of things I've written to give it more context.

At the end of the day, we'll often do another energy boost and then go through our entire list while AI listens. We'll assign tasks for the AI to work on overnight.

I work with a personal trainer once a week

I use the walking pad pretty often and go on long walks during the day.

I have a gym in my building, so I'll usually do weights after work.

If I have no plans, I can end up working until 2 to 5 in the morning

If I go to bed at 5 a.m., which happens pretty often, I'll wake up around 11 a.m., so I can at least get six hours of sleep.

We just did a massive workshop with Mark Cuban for 25,000 people, and that's the kind of thing where I'll put in extra effort every night leading up to it because I have a really high bar.

If I have plans, like a recent Olivia Dean concert, I'll wrap around 5 or 6 p.m.

There are plenty of client dinners, Yankees games, and other events on my schedule.

At home, I'll usually take a walking AI break around 6 p.m., catch up with family and friends around 7:30 p.m., and work again until about 11 p.m.

For dinner, I almost always order Thai or Vietnamese food

I most often order a chicken banh mi with extra pickled daikon. Honestly, a lot of my work is powered by DoorDash and Diet Coke.

My goal is to have the funkiest weekend possible

I'm a Broadway-loving former college a cappella singer living in one of the greatest cities in the world for the arts, so I try to get as much exposure to them as possible. That might mean seeing a theater show, going to Marie's Crisis, and staying out until 2 a.m., singing Broadway songs.

Every weekend, I'll do at least one strange thing that breaks me out of my comfort zone or teaches me something new.

Every Thursday, AI also sends me a list of weird things happening around New York. Recent options have included a puppet fair, an interactive rock musical, a puzzle variety show, a magic show, and a paper lamp workshop.

• RASA is a concert business for and by tech people, hosting an festival this weekend in Santa Monica.
• It has raised more than $8 million from VCs who see IRL experiences as a hedge against AI.
• RASA's founder wants it to become the "Palantir" of the concert business.

As most VCs pour billions into AI startups, a select few are making a counterbet on a traditionally low-tech business: Concerts. They figure the more life moves onto screens, the more valuable it will become to get people off them.

"Real life experiences are the ultimate hedge against AI," said Paul Martino, managing partner at Bullpen Capital. "The place you're going to escape from AI is a concert."

Martino is one of around a dozen VCs who have invested around $9.5 million into a Los Angeles-based startup RASA World, which produces electronic dance music festivals and live events around the globe. Earlier this month, it hosted an EDM festival for 3,000 people on the San Francisco waterfront. This weekend, it is holding a two-day festival on the Santa Monica pier featuring DJs Arodes and Claptone, with an expected crowd of 8,000 people.

Founded in 2023 by three serial tech entrepreneurs, RASA is decidedly for tech people, by tech people. Rather than spend money on expensive acts, the company has used its capital to hire engineers and data specialists to build what cofounder and CEO Ahmad Muhaisen described as an internal "super tool" to combine the data from ticketing, social interactions, and attendance.

Part of RASA's appeal to VCs is that the founders speak in the lingua franca of venture-backed software. Muhaisen said investors often arrive expecting to meet a slick "nightlife promoter" only to be pleasantly surprised when he throws around terms like customer-acquisition cost, lifetime value, and scalable distribution.

"Suddenly they meet us, and they're like, 'Wait, you're tech founders,'" he said.

Muhaisen grew up in Lebanon where he studied computer engineering. After moving to the US, he cofounded a fintech company but left in 2022 to build a business around the gatherings he had been throwing in San Francisco.

"These events started with 50 people in my house," Muhaisen said. "Suddenly, there are a thousand people showing up and renting beautiful venues."

Muhaisen wants RASA to become the "Palantir" of the concert business: an intelligence layer that gives an event producer a much more detailed picture of its customers, their social ties, and what draws them back.

Muhaisen said the company is looking beyond the traditional nightlife metric of who spends the most money. More important is someone who brings the most friends.

"We know in our system the top thousand people who are responsible for inviting 20,000 people," Muhaisen said. The company can then reward those people with free tickets and upgrades.

Muhaisen likes to use the word "experience," and emphasizes scenic (and Instagram-friendly) settings rather than headlining DJs. This is not Coachella. Anyone looking for Tiesto or Calvin Harris will be disappointed.

"If you're going after bigger and bigger names, the margins suffer because it's a finite group of talent that everyone is fighting for," he explains.

In keeping with Silicon Valley's sober kick, you will also be disappointed if you're looking for bottle service and rounds of shots.

"If a person has fun at our events without drinking, then we know it's a good event," Muhaisen said.

RASA takes some inspiration from Burning Man, which has attracted tech elites for decades. But as the demographic of that event gets older, RASA is trying to appeal to younger audiences who want something they can go to in the city on the weekend.

"There are people who have not been to Burning Man, but want that community feel," said Semil Shah, a general partner at Haystack Ventures, which backed RASA. "They don't want to go out into the woods or the desert for days or weeks. They want to have a more contained experience."

Over the summer, Bullpen Capital's Martino went to a RASA concert hoping to get a quick escape from conversations about AI, which dominate tech circles these days. He did not quite succeed.

"It is funny to go to a RASA event and see some of the biggest tech cheerleaders talking about AI," he said, adding he was eventually relieved to see them take at least a momentary break to just focus on dancing.

"Thank God we got them away from their AI for 25 minutes," he said.

• CUDA engineers are elite coders who squeeze speed out of Nvidia's chips.
• AI is reshaping the job as demand for scarce expertise continues to grow.
• AI could soon write CUDA code that humans can verify but not fully understand.

For years, CUDA engineers who optimize Nvidia chips have been among tech's most sought-after specialists. Now, they're increasingly managing AI that does it for them.

These engineers specialize in using Compute Unified Device Architecture (CUDA) — Nvidia's software for programming its AI chips, known as GPUs — to write code that can run AI as efficiently as possible.

The jobs are coveted because compute costs are massive; engineers who can squeeze the most value from a chip can save companies millions.

CUDA engineers traditionally spent their days writing kernels — the small pieces of code that tell a GPU how to do a single job as quickly as possible — and then testing them to find the fastest version. Now, AI is taking over much of that painstaking work by generating hundreds of kernels, testing them, and picking the best one.

As a result, CUDA engineers increasingly spend their time supervising coding agents. It's part of a broader shift across the software industry, where developers are moving from writing code to managing AI.

This involves setting goals, checking results, and stepping in when the AI gets stuck, said Jeremy Nixon, founder of the startup Infinity, which builds AI that optimizes chip software.

Because AI can introduce "bizarre" bugs that humans wouldn't have written, the job of reviewing AI code has become "more intense," said Anne Ouyang, cofounder of the AI infrastructure startup Standard Kernel.

Despite the shift, hiring data suggests demand for CUDA engineers remains strong. While overall demand for software engineers is lower than in 2023, "demand for some specialized skills, like CUDA, has grown," said Elena Magrini, head of global research at the labor market analytics firm Lightcast.

And scarcity remains a challenge, even as AI has supercharged productivity, said Bing Xu, founder of the AI optimization startup INT21. That's because the deepest CUDA expertise was built over more than 20 years, long before AI sent demand soaring.

"In the past, we couldn't hire enough good-quality CUDA engineers, and now AI is filling the gap," Xu said.

CUDA engineer jobs are evolving

CUDA engineering roles exist both inside and outside Nvidia — including at AI labs and cloud giants. There have already been more US job postings requiring CUDA skills through the first eight months of 2026 than during all of 2025, per Lightcast.

Nvidia remains the largest employer hiring for these positions, according to the firm, with over 300 active US job postings requiring CUDA skills as of September. Public Nvidia job postings for CUDA-related engineering roles advertise base salaries as high as $431,250 before stock and benefits.

Nixon said that AI lowers the barrier to entry for engineers with less experience while simultaneously pushing veterans toward higher-level work, like overseeing AI.

Ouyang said AI could hit junior CUDA engineers hardest, while specialists who can outperform AI and verify its work will become more valuable.

And over time, AI could take on a greater role.

Xu said his company's research had already shown that AI can outperform human engineers on certain benchmarks for writing kernels.

In some cases, AI already writes CUDA code that engineers can't fully understand, though they can verify it's correct, Nixon said.

He said this ability to outperform human engineers offers an early glimpse of "superhuman" AI in the real world.

Have a tip? Contact this reporter via email at gweiss@businessinsider.com or Signal at @geoffweiss.25. Use a personal email address and a nonwork device; here's our guide to sharing information securely.

• AI is lifting bond yields for reasons that go far beyond financing new data centers.
• Markets are increasingly pricing AI's potential to lift productivity and long-term growth, ING says.
• Treasury yields have surged to multi-decade highs as the global bond selloff deepens.

The AI boom is pushing long-term bond yields higher in ways that go beyond a wave of corporate borrowing.

While inflation and fiscal deficits remain the biggest drivers of higher long-dated yields, AI accounts for about one-fifth of the recent rise, according to strategists at ING in a Thursday note.

Much of the discussion around AI's impact on bond yields has centered on Big Tech's borrowing spree, which has forced companies to compete with governments for investor capital. But that's only part of the story, the strategists argued.

The bank estimates roughly 70% of AI's impact on long-dated yields stems from expectations that the technology will boost productivity and long-run economic growth. By comparison, only about 25% comes from higher AI-related corporate debt issuance.

That's because if AI makes businesses more productive, investors expect companies to borrow and invest more, pushing up expectations for long-term interest rates.

Those expectations can push up real bond yields even before productivity gains become visible in economic data, they wrote.

"Whether we like it or not, rises in real yields for productivity reasons should be construed as higher yields for 'positive' reasons," the bank's strategists wrote.

ING's strategists compare today's AI boom with the dot-com era, when the 10-year real Treasury yield reached about 4% amid optimism over technology. At roughly 2.9% today, real yields remain well below those levels, the strategists wrote.

"Arguably, the productivity story today is even more persuasive than it was back then," they wrote.

ING's note comes as the global bond selloff gathered pace.

Yields on long-dated government debt have climbed across the US, Europe, and Japan as investors grapple with persistent inflation, resilient growth, higher oil prices, and concerns over government borrowing.

The move has pushed borrowing costs to multi-year highs in many major economies, raising the stakes for richly valued equity markets.

On Thursday, the benchmark 10-year US Treasury yield climbed as high as 5.34%, its highest level since 2002, while the 30-year Treasury yield spiked to a 24-year high of 5.69%.

• Milk Bar founder Christina Tosi said she took a hands-on approach to building her team.
• That also meant looking beyond a candidate's technical skills, she said.
• Tosi said also saw a way to turn overlooked talent into a business advantage.

Milk Bar founder Christina Tosi said the key to hiring a great team is learning to do the jobs yourself first.

"For the longest time, I demanded of myself to work the job, whether that was human resources, or ops, or the delivery driver, or the pick-pack-ship person," Tosi said on Thursday's episode of the "Pretty Tough with Maria Sharapova" podcast.

Whenever the company needed to create a new role, Tosi said she first wanted to understand what the job involved before hiring someone to do it.

"What is it like to work this job? What are the highs and the lows? What kind of personality would it take?" she said. "And then, how do I find someone who can be better than me at it?"

Beyond technical skills, Tosi said she looked for people she would want beside her, "celebrating the highs, and being in the trenches on the hard days and lows with."

She added that she was focused on hiring women for leadership roles because of how difficult she had found it to gain opportunities herself.

"It wasn't just getting a foot in a door. Like, I had to put my whole body in the door jam just to get in, and then I had to prove my worth," Tosi said.

She saw an opportunity to hire talented women whose potential other employers might have overlooked and make that a strength for her business.

"I definitely know how smart and brilliant women are. I know how tough they are. I know how driven they are," Tosi said. "And I thought, well, this is a secret that maybe other people don't know yet, and I'm going to leverage it to my freaking advantage."

Other entrepreneurs have also spoken about the importance of hiring thoughtfully.

Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky, for example, said he regretted not spending more time recruiting earlier in his career. He now spends about five hours a day recruiting and focuses on results rather than résumés.

Uber founder Travis Kalanick said he tries to simulate what it would be like to work with a candidate during the interview process, "so that day one is already like week two."

• Eric Schmidt said AI coding tools can now write code he never could at his best.
• The former Google CEO still advises young people to learn programming.
• Schmidt said future programmers will act as architects, directing AI to execute their designs.

The former Google CEO said AI has beaten him at the thing he was once best at.

Eric Schmidt, now 71, told Blackstone's "Inside Blackstone" podcast that he was among the top programmers of his generation, but today's AI coding tools are writing the code he couldn't.

"I was a very, very good programmer when I was 22, right? I was one of the best, according to myself. My field is over, right?" Schmidt told podcast host Christine Anderson. "I look at the code it writes now. I can't write that code. I couldn't when I was 22, right? So, I got beaten, right? Hard."

Still, Schmidt tells young people to learn to code so they can give the most accurate orders to AI tools and be the brains of the design.

"I had to build the house," Schmidt said in an analogy. "Now I can architect the house using the equivalent of Claude Code or OpenAI Codex or future products from Google, which they're working on, all of which allow me to say what I want and the code gets written."

"The next generation of people like me will be the architects, and they'll be very, very smart and they know how to say, 'this is what I want,'" Schmidt added.

The shift is already underway inside AI companies. At Daytona, a 30-person AI startup, CEO Ivan Burazin previously told Business Insider that each of the 16 engineers manages an average of five AI agents, and no one there writes code anymore.

Anthropic CFO Krishna Rao also said on the "Invest Like the Best" podcast that AI now handles much of the execution layer of knowledge work, including producing some of the company's financial statements, freeing up humans for oversight and strategy.

"90 plus percent of our code is actually written by Claude Code," Rao said. "Everyone kind of becomes a manager."

• Tesla rolled out an update that lets the car quickly drive away while connected to a charger.
• The update comes after three people at a Tesla charging station in Idaho were shot at.
• Tesla said the feature is "for emergency use only" and will damage the vehicle and Supercharger.

One Tesla employee is calling it "a feature we hope you never need."

Tesla on Thursday rolled out an over-the-air software update called "Emergency Drive Away" that would allow the vehicle to quickly shift into drive while plugged into a Supercharging station.

Typically, a Tesla does not shift out of park if a cable is detected.

The feature comes two months after a shooting near an In-N-Out in Twin Falls, Idaho, left three people dead. One of the victims, Dale Schultz, was inside a Tesla with his wife at a charging station at the time of the shooting, NBC-affiliate KTVB reported.

Tesla said in an X post that the feature is for emergencies only.

"Use of this feature will damage your vehicle and the Supercharger," the post said. "Deliberate misuse will invoke additional penalties."

A video demonstration posted on X showed how the Tesla breaks off from the charging handle after a driver shifts into drive and presses an "Activate" button at the bottom of an alert message.

Max de Zegher, the senior director of charging in North America, said in an X post that it's a feature "we hope you never need."

"We select Supercharger locations with safety in mind and relocate sites deemed unsafe. Our goal is that you always feel safe getting out to unplug," he wrote. "We went back and forth on this for years, but believe offering it is the right call. Don't abuse it, so we don't have to restrict it."

Tesla didn't say what the penalties are if a driver were to use misuse the feature.

A Tesla spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Even if you have an elaborate cable package, streaming services have become all but necessary to keep up with select sports and original TV shows. Fortunately, there are deals on nearly every streaming subscription service out there, especially when you bundle multiple platforms together or opt for an annual plan. Below, we've highlighted all of the best streaming deals and bundles, from Disney to Amazon and everything in between.

Many of these discounts are evergreen, year-round offerings, but we'll keep this page updated with the latest limited-time deals, so you don't need to worry about missing out on a potential savings opportunity. After scouring the internet for discounts this month, we've found introductory offers from multiple live TV services, six-month price lock offers from Disney Plus and Hulu, and a brand-new mega bundle from Prime Video.

We know streaming can get pricey, especially after the slew of recent price hikes, which is why we've rounded up a massive list of the best streaming deals below using our rigorous deal hunting and vetting process. You can explore both basic stand-alone streaming services and comprehensive live TV packages, with price comparisons showing how much you'd pay per year on a month-to-month plan or how much you'd pay per month without bundling multiple services together. Many of the streamers offer introductory deals for new and/or eligible returning customers, which we've also outlined.

Paramount+

There are a few simple ways to cash in on Paramount+ savings. Signing up for an annual plan is an easy way to save around $18 to $28 year-over-year compared to what you'd pay after 12 months of a monthly plan. The Essential tier gives subscribers ad-supported on-demand content, while the Premium upgrade features an ad-free on-demand experience, CBS live streaming, Showtime programming, and other perks. Paramount+ Essential (or Peacock Premium, if you'd prefer that) is also included with all Walmart+ plans, from monthly ($12.95 a month) to annual ($98 a year).

If you just want to stick with a monthly plan, you can head to the Paramount+ website.

Disney Plus and Hulu

Disney (and several of its partners) offers the greatest number of deals through bundles. There are savings if you bundle Disney+ with Hulu, with Hulu and HBO Max, with Hulu and ESPN, with Hulu + Live TV, or if you just get an annual Disney+ ad-free subscription. We recommend trying out one of the Disney+ and Hulu combos no matter what, since you get two entire on-demand subscriptions for only $0.50 a month more than the price of one. There's also some savings if you commit to a six-month plan (billed monthly) of the Disney+ and Hulu bundle (ad-supported or ad-free), which will give you a cheaper monthly fee for the first six months. Eligible students can also get a special discount on the ad-supported Disney+ and Hulu bundle.

If you plan to stick with just one streaming service or want to try a month-to-month subscription first, you can head to the Disney+ website for more information.

ESPN

There are two tiers of ESPN's streaming service: ESPN Select (formerly ESPN Plus, for $13.99 a month) and ESPN Unlimited (for $31.99 a month). Both plans also have annual subscription options, which offer year-over-year savings compared to paying monthly for 12 months. You can also purchase a gift subscription for an ESPN Select annual plan. Additionally, you can save if you bundle ESPN Unlimited with other services, like Disney+, Hulu, NFL Plus Premium, or FOX One.

The ESPN Unlimited and NFL Plus Premium bundle costs $41.99 a month, which is a decent savings opportunity when compared to the $46.98 you'd pay each month if you subscribed to the services separately. The ESPN Unlimited and FOX One bundle offers slightly more savings at $39.99 a month, compared to the $51.98 you'd pay if subscribed separately. You can learn more about the Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN bundles in the section above.

If you'd rather try a monthly plan or explore the bundle deal, you can go to the ESPN website. 

Peacock

Peacock's monthly plans go for $12.99 or $19.99 a month, so the annual plans add up to about 12 months for the price of the 10. The Premium tier offers on-demand and select live coverage with ads, while Premium Plus has ad-free on-demand content and a 24/7 live stream of NBC. The service boasts select live sports and classic comedies, like The Office, Parks and Rec, and Saturday Night Live. There's also a pared-down Peacock Select tier, which costs $8.99 a month or $89.99 a year. This plan only includes ad-supported on-demand current season and library content from NBC and Bravo shows, in addition to some other select programming (but no movies, live events/sports, or Peacock Originals).

Peacock and Apple TV have also launched two bundle options: one for Peacock Premium and Apple TV, and another for Peacock Premium Plus and Apple TV. Subscriptions cost $17.99 and $22.99, respectively, a significant savings opportunity compared to what you'd pay for both services separately each month. Additionally, Peacock Premium (or Paramount+ Essential, depending on what you prefer) is included with Walmart+ subscriptions, which cost $12.95 a month or $98 a year. Instacart+, which costs $9.99 a month or $99 a year, also comes with Peacock Premium access.

You can check out the Peacock website if you'd rather subscribe to a monthly plan.

Apple TV

Apple TV typically costs $14.99 a month, but users can find savings in an annual plan, which costs $119. It's worth noting that you might need to sign up for a monthly plan first and then opt into annual billing. Beginning in the 2026 season, all MLS matches became available to Apple TV subscribers, so there's no need to pay for the extra MLS Season Pass.

You can also find some savings by bundling Apple TV and Peacock together. Monthly bundles are available for both ad-supported and ad-free versions of Peacock, with savings ranging from 34% to 36% each month compared to what you'd pay if you subscribed to Apple TV and Peacock separately.

If you're interested in learning more about Apple TV Plus or other Apple services, you can visit the Apple TV Plus website for additional information.

Prime Video

Prime Video is Amazon's streaming counterpart, but if you're not interested in having a full Amazon Prime membership (which includes access to Prime Video), you can get a stand-alone Prime Video subscription for $8.99 a month. You can also find some savings by subscribing to an annual Amazon Prime plan, which goes for $139 a year. If you're looking for an ad-free on-demand experience, you can get Prime Video Ultra for an additional $4.99 a month.

Prime Video also allows customers to subscribe to external streaming services through their account, and these sign-ups often come with special deals in the form of discounted bundles. Some of the best Prime Video add-on deals available right now include the Starz and BritBox bundle ($17.99 a month, compared to the $22.98 a month you'd pay each month if you subscribed to each service separately) and the HBO Max and Cinemax bundle ($22.99 a month, compared to the $28.48 you'd pay each month if you subscribed to each service separately). There's also a new mega bundle, which combines AMC+, BritBox, MGM+, PBS Masterpiece, and STARZ ($29.99 a month, compared to the $48.95 you'd pay each month if you subscribed to each service separately).

If you'd rather try a monthly plan or just stick with Prime Video, you can find more information on the Prime Video storefront.

NFL Plus

NFL Plus always offers some savings when you sign up for an annual plan compared to what you'd pay after subscribing to a monthly plan for 12 months. Opting for an annual subscription can save you over 40%. You can also find some moderate monthly savings by bundling ESPN Unlimited and NFL Plus Premium together, or by adding NFL Plus Premium to the Disney Plus, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited bundle.

If you'd prefer to sign up for a monthly plan, you can explore all subscription options through the NFL Plus website.

DAZN

DAZN has become an absolute hub for boxing, hosting some of the most-anticipated matches around the globe each year. DAZN also offers other select sports, usually without a PPV fee, although boxing is its focus. Most major fights require a subscription and pay-per-view (PPV) fee, but you can find some savings by opting for one of the annual plans. Flexible month-to-month subscriptions cost $30.99 a month, but you can save by opting for the 12-Month Monthly Saver plan, which reduces your monthly bill to $20.99 a month on a one-year contract.

There's also an up-front annual plan, which costs $224.99 a year. DAZN has also introduced a new Ultimate plan, which costs $44.99 a month on an annual contract or $449.99 up front for a year. The Ultimate tier includes at least 12 PPV fights a year at no extra cost.

For more information on DAZN's plans and PPV offerings, you can explore the DAZN website.

Starz

Starz subscriptions typically cost $11.99 a month, $45.99 for six months, or $69.99 for a year, but the streamer is usually running a promo on at least one of its plans at any given moment. Right now, customers can get about 57% off a year of service by opting for a $29.99 annual plan. If you're only interested in trying STARZ for a few months, there's also an option to get your first three months for $4.99 a month.

If you're interested in learning more about the different subscriptions, you can check out the Starz website.

HBO Max

There are three tiers of HBO Max, previously Max (and before that, also HBO Max), in addition to a Disney/HBO Max/Hulu bundle, which we've highlighted above. The standard monthly price for HBO Max with Ads is $10.99, HBO Max Ad-Free is $18.49, and HBO Max Ultimate Ad-Free is $22.99. The ad-free tiers also include sports live streaming for games that air on Warner Bros. channels, like TNT and TBS. The annual version of each plan offers about 17% off in total per year, which is not a bad deal if HBO Max is something you're planning to hang onto in the long run. You can learn more about the Disney Plus, Hulu, and HBO Max bundles in the Disney Plus section above.

You can go to the HBO Max website if you'd rather just sign up for a month-to-month plan right now.

Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll is a popular anime-centric streaming service that has some decent savings opportunities when you subscribe to one of its three tiers of service on an annual basis. Monthly subscriptions range from $9.99 a month to $17.99 a month, and their annual counterparts range from $99.99 a year to $179.99 a year. Year-to-year, annual subscriptions are about 17% cheaper across the board than what you'd pay in total after 12 months on a monthly subscription.

You can learn more about the various plans through the Crunchyroll website.

YouTube TV

YouTube TV is one of the most popular live TV streaming services. The streamer offers a comprehensive selection of channels across multiple plans, with the option to pay for add-ons. The main plan carries 100+ popular channels and an enticing, limited-time offer for new users. From now until November 26, customers can get their first five months for $67.99 a month, instead of the standard $82.99 a month. That shakes out to 18% off.

If you're interested in checking out other plans, you can head to the YouTube TV website.

Fubo

Fubo is a fantastic live TV service with a sports-centric approach. Standard plans start at $88.99 a month and reach up to $98.99 a month before any add-ons or regional sports fees. However, new customers can get $25 off their first month of Pro or $30 off their first month of Elite. If those prices are still a little steep, you might want to check out the Sports + News plan (available in select markets), which offers around 30 key sports and news channels for $64.99 a month. New users can get $10 off their first month of service. There's also a Fubo Latino plan, which is currently discounted by 50% in the first month of service.

For additional plans and channel information, head to Fubo's website.

DirecTV

DirecTV, formerly DirecTV Stream, is another comprehensive live TV streaming service with pretty much all of the channels you'll find in a standard cable package. New subscribers can save on their first 24 months of Signature packages, including discounts on the Entertainment, Choice, Ultimate, and Premier plans. First-time customers can also get $30 off their first three months of Entertainment, $30 off their first month of Choice, $35 off their first month of Ultimate, and $40 off their first month of Premier. Just keep in mind that the actual monthly prices might be a bit higher after paying the required regional sports fees and/or any necessary Gemini lease fees. Users can also save some money on their first six months of DirecTV's MySports genre pack and their first two months of DirecTV's MyNews and MiEspañol genre packs.

If you're interested in learning more about DirecTV, check out the DirecTV website for additional information.

Sling TV

Sling TV has developed a reputation as one of the most affordable live TV streaming packages on the market, and it's also chock-full of deals. There are several main plans to choose from: Sling Select, Sling Essentials, Sling Orange, Sling Blue, the Sling Select + Essentials combo, and the Sling Orange + Blue combo. Individual Orange and Blue plans cost $45.99 a month each, but you can get both starting at $60.99 a month. Sling Select and Essentials start at $19.99 a month each, but you can get both beginning at $34.99 a month. If you have a plan that gets local channels (like Sling Select, Sling Blue, or one of their combos), subscriptions will cost a little bit extra each month.

Sling also offers all sorts of deals if you add on a streaming service through your Sling subscription, including first-month savings on Paramount+ with Showtime (Premium), AMC+, and STARZ. Several Sling plans also include access to the FOX One app at no extra cost.

If you want to explore Sling TV and its add-ons, visit the Sling website for more information.

Streaming device deals

If you've gotten yourself all set up with a streaming service but you still need a way to watch it on your TV, then it might be time to purchase a streaming device. These are particularly helpful tools for those without smart TVs, which typically come with streaming apps available to download or already installed (although you'll still need to pay for a subscription to use them). A couple of our favorite picks are on sale this month, including Roku and Fire TV devices.

Wireless and grocery streaming deals

One of the cool things about streaming services is that they're often already included with other subscriptions or contracts, or these services allow you to sign up for a streamer or bundle at a reduced price. Mobile carriers and grocery delivery services have some of the best offers, and we've rounded up some of the top options below. Cellular providers typically involve long-term contracts, so we encourage potential customers to read the fine print carefully.

• NBCUniversal is laying off a few hundred streaming tech employees in Europe and the US.
• Most of the cuts are at UK-based Sky, a person familiar with the move said.
• NBCU let go of a few dozen streaming staffers in March.

Comcast's NBCUniversal is cutting a few hundred streaming tech staffers, Business Insider has learned.

The layoffs will impact NBCU's global streaming technology group, which includes the engineering and quality assurance teams, three people familiar with the changes said.

Most of the cuts are at Sky, Comcast's European media arm, though a person briefed on the change said that some US-based workers at NBCU will be affected.

Comcast is preparing to spin off NBCU, with its streamers and studio, from its cable and internet businesses next summer.

Traditional media companies are cutting costs as they face pressure to please Wall Street, while competing with deep-pocketed, tech-forward rivals like Netflix and YouTube. NBCU's streaming cuts come months after its US streamer, Peacock, became profitable on an adjusted EBITDA basis for the first time.

"As NBCUniversal and Sky continue to invest in our streaming products and technology, we are proposing changes to our Global Streaming Technology organization, which will impact some roles," an NBCU spokesperson said in a statement. "This evolution will ensure we have the right structure and resources in place for future growth and enable us to better serve our customers and partners."

Employees affected by the downsizing were informed of the cuts on Wednesday, people familiar with the move said. UK labor laws require that staffers affected by cuts undergo a consultation process, meaning their dismissals won't take effect immediately. Those processes began yesterday, a person familiar with the cuts said.

A Peacock tech employee said that they're "still happy" at NBCU despite the cuts, though they're uncertain about the future as the media company prepares for life without Comcast.

"Layoffs on the tech side make me question how we will hit our big goals for 2027, such as decoupling from Comcast and incorporating ITV into the platform," this person said.

NBCU let go of dozens of employees in March following the closure of Showmax, an African streaming service it operated with French broadcaster Canal+.

Some of its rivals have also made cuts. Disney had its third layoff round since April earlier this week, and Paramount Skydance is widely anticipated to cut staff after it buys Warner Bros. Discovery in a $110 billion deal that CEO David Ellison has said will include $6 billion in expected cost savings.

Now that college football is back in season, fans of the Dogs can tune in to catch every game live. Read on to learn where to watch the Georgia Bulldogs college football games from home.

To keep it simple, the best way to catch every team game in the US is with an ESPN Unlimited subscription. If you're tuning in internationally, you can stream via DAZN in the UK and other regions — or choose your preferred platform from anywhere by using a VPN.

Where to watch Georgia Bulldogs in the US

All of the Bulldogs' games will be available on an ESPN-owned channel or service. The exact network varies by game, with later events still to be determined. For each of the 12 games, you'll be able to tune in through ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SEC Network, or ESPN's streaming service.

This keeps things pretty easy for fans of the team — or followers of any team this season. Signing up for an ESPN Unlimited subscription will cover all of the provider's networks, including ESPN+ and SECN+ exclusives. To join, it's $32 a month and grants access to a vast library of the hottest live sports, like the US Open.

Looking for more than just sports? A live TV streaming service is an excellent option for catering to your entire household's interests, whether you're fans of reality TV, international programming, or breaking news. We recommend YouTube TV and Fubo for the job, both of which offer affordable sports packages and include ESPN Unlimited for no additional cost.

YouTube TV's Sports and Main plans include all the channels needed to catch every Bulldogs game. The Sports plan is more budget-friendly, starting at only $65 a month. Main plans start at $83 a month, but you can get $15 off every month for your first five months. New users can get a free trial of either plan.

Another live TV streaming service we like, Fubo, carries all the ESPN-owned channels where college football will be broadcast. Most of its plans will do the job, except for Fubo's Latino plan. Starting at $89 a month for Pro, new customers can get $25 off their first month following a free trial. There's also a budget-friendly Sports + News option in select markets, which costs at $65 a month. Fubo unlocks ESPN Unlimited access and offers a free trial for new customers.

Where to watch Georgia Bulldogs in the UK and other regions

If you find yourself across the pond this season, fret not: college football will be available to watch on DAZN in the UK and other regions. Games will only be available with a DAZN NCAA College Sports subscription, which varies in price by region; a select few games will be free to watch.

How to watch Georgia Bulldogs from anywhere

In the event that you're not in any of the above regions to catch Georgia's next game, a VPN will save your day. Virtual Private Networks are popular cybersecurity tools that allow users to temporarily change their virtual location, enabling access to region-locked websites and services from anywhere in the world.

Our favorite is NordVPN, one of the best VPNs you can choose from. Fast, secure, and backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can't go wrong giving it a shot.

Georgia Bulldogs Football Schedule

Where do the Georgia Bulldogs play?

When the Bulldogs host home games, they usually play on Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium on the University of Georgia campus (in Athens, Georgia). Select games, including the annual Florida rivalry match-up, take place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

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

• Lara Trump, Donald Trump's daughter-in-law, said the Iran war could cost Republicans the midterms.
• She's not part of the Trump administration, but her acknowledgment of the political risk is notable.
• Trump said the war could hurt Republicans — but argued it should help.

President Donald Trump's daughter-in-law addressed a possibility that the White House has largely sought to downplay: The war in Iran could cost Republicans the midterms.

In an appearance on the YouTube show "Harry Cole Saves the West" on Wednesday, Lara Trump, who is married to Donald Trump's son, Eric Trump, spoke about the possible impact of the war on the midterms as Americans contend with the conflict's rising economic toll.

On his show, Cole asked the Fox News host and former cochair of the Republican National Committee about Donald Trump's handling of the ongoing war, saying that it "could cost him his legacy."

"Well, it could cost him these midterms," Lara Trump said. "I think Donald Trump's legacy has yet to be written, and I think that in a lot of ways — I still say he's going to go down in history as one of the greatest presidents, if not the greatest America has ever seen — but you're right. The last two years really matter."

At the White House on Thursday, Donald Trump was asked if he agreed with his daughter-in-law's political assessment.

The president told reporters "it's possible" the war could hurt Republicans in the midterms, but argued it "should help" because Iran would not have a nuclear weapon.

"So when you say, 'Is it OK for Iran to have a nuclear weapon?' I would say 100% of the people say no, including worldwide," he said."So when you say it that way, it would help. If you don't say that, it could hurt."

Though Lara Trump holds no official role in the Trump administration, her statement appeared to be a rare acknowledgment from a member of the president's inner circle that Republicans could struggle to maintain control of the House and the Senate if the war continues.

Still, later in the interview she said the president "really hates the way that things have gone with Iran" and wished that "things had more swiftly happened."

Vice President JD Vance took a different approach when asked in September if the Iran war would be over by the midterm elections. Vance said that he "wouldn't call it a war," touted the accomplishments of Operations Midnight Hammer and Epic Fury, and added, "You would have to ask the Iranians."

The Iran war remains a tough sell as voters grapple with rising energy prices and inflation driven by the conflict. In June, Moody's Analytics estimated that the war cost US households $100 billion in its first three months — nearly $750 per household.

A White House spokesperson referred Business Insider to the president's earlier comments.

Even though it may seem like Amazon Prime Day just finished, the retailer is already kicking off its fall equivalent soon: Prime Big Deal Days. With the wave of flashy markdowns and price cuts just around the corner, I'll teach you how to tell if a Prime Day deal is actually good.

Not only has my team spent years covering Amazon's big sales event, but all of us also have pretty high standards when it comes to the products and brands we share in the first place. You can trust that the deals we share in our Prime Day coverage are solid discounts on a life upgrade you'll love. As Deals Editor, I'm especially picky about what makes the cut — which is why I'm qualified to show you the tools you need to be a deal expert of your own.

Keep reading to learn the hacks, tips, and tricks for vetting deals on anything that catches your eye. To better prep for Prime Big Deal Days, make sure you have your membership in order, or sign up for the free trial now.

Lightning Deals and coupons

Amazon offers Lightning Deals and coupons throughout the year, but for Prime Day, the limited-time offers are much more frequent.

• Lightning Deals: Short-lived offers displayed on product listings, bringing items to incredible low prices. These are typically limited to a specific time and quantity before they expire.
• Coupons: Opt-in discounts available by selecting a checkbox on the product page or, more rarely, entering a coupon code at checkout. These can be pretty great deals, but they're not always all-time lows.

As a rule of thumb, Lightning Deals are always excellent deals. At worst, they'll match the previous all-time low, if not beat it by a landslide.

Coupons, on the other hand, aren't necessarily as good. Rather than assuming the best of them, it's best to keep an eye out for them on every product you buy. Typically, they're not the most obvious and can sometimes amount to only a few cents off, making them forgettable. However, it's worth keeping an eye out for the occasional gold mine that knocks an extra $50 off your purchase.

• See today's Lightning deals

Price tracking

Price history is valuable when evaluating a deal's "goodness." Short of watching prices regularly throughout the year and taking notes on rises and falls (like I do), it can be difficult to acquire this knowledge. Luckily, there are some tools you can use to bolster your confidence when adding to the cart.

• Camelcamelcamel: Perhaps the simplest to use, this website gives you a full price history graph when you enter a product page URL. It's pretty accurate, but fluctuations from third-party sellers, coupons, and Lightning Deals can introduce some confusion.

• Keepa: A plug-in for frequent deal hunters, this can be installed on most major browsers to generate price history graphs on every Amazon product page you visit. It's generally less fine-tuned than Camelcamelcamel, lacking the same amount of detail, but it's good for an overall pricing view.

These tools can offer priceless knowledge that can help steer you in the right direction. They're both free, too, so there's no reason to skip out on them for your biggest purchases.

List price vs. typical price

More often than not, deals on Amazon come with a vibrant red "Limited time deal" tag, complete with a crossed-out "List Price" to show you just how much you're saving. While this may, at first, pique your interest for potential savings, it doesn't take long to realize that "List Price" is often far from a product's typical price.

When I say "typical price," I'm referring to the price an item is available at for most of the year. The price-tracking tools I mentioned above help inform this number, along with cross-referencing other stores (like Walmart or DTC brand sites) and the overall knowledge I've gained from keeping tabs on these items for so long.

For example, the AirPods Pro 3 may look enticing at only $199. However, many Apple aficionados can tell you that the brand's products are almost always on sale. A quick glance at price history shows the earbuds are almost always available at $199, making that price more of a baseline than a can't-miss deal worth jumping on. In this case, I'd say the Pro 3's typical deal price is $199, and you should avoid ever paying any more than that.

• See today's deals at Amazon

See more: Our latest Prime Day coverage | How to get a Prime free trial | How to find Lightning Deals | Amazon Prime benefits

Follow us on Instagram and WhatsApp for more deals and buying guides

For simple, subscription-style phone service, Mint Mobile is one of our favorites. Powered by T-Mobile, it gives you the provider's reliable nationwide connection for unbelievably low, contract-free prices. Thanks to the frequent Mint Mobile deals we find, signing up is easy, too.

Though the MVNO commonly offers discounts, not all deals are equal in terms of quality. Right now, the best promo is a minor price cut for new customers; it's a far cry from the noteworthy 50% off deals we've seen in recent months. Alternatively, shoppers in need of internet with their cell service can save big with the ongoing Minternet bundle sale, which effectively brings Unlimited service down to $5 a month.

Keep scrolling to learn how to score these Mint Mobile deals. Be sure to check the coverage map to ensure you're eligible for service, too.

Today's best Mint Mobile plans and deals

Mint's plans come in four different data allotments: 6GB, 17GB, 23GB, and Unlimited. The best value for most shoppers is the top-tier, since it gives users uncapped data every month for $30.

Alternatively, you can save big by shopping for internet with an Unlimited plan, thanks to Mint's new Minternet service. One year of the two bundled together is only $45 monthly, a total of $540 paid upfront. Buying the deal effectively locks in the intro offer Minternet pricing plus Unlimited for only $5 a month for your first 12 months.

Still need a phone? The deals above require you to bring your own device, but smartphones are also frequently included in Mint deals. Right now, the best offer knocks $500 off any Samsung Galaxy S26 when you buy it with an annual Unlimited plan. You can save an additional $400 with an eligible trade-in, too.

In addition to unlimited talk and text, all Mint plans include free calling to Canada and Mexico, WiFi calling and texting, and free mobile hotspot access to share your phone's data with other devices. Hotspot data is limited to 10GB on the Unlimited plan, though. 

Mint Mobile home internet deals

Mint Mobile's newly added internet plans — called 5G Home Minternet — are an incredible value for shoppers. New signups can get their first three months for only $40 each, matching the price of a one-year commitment without the longer term. Mint Mobile users can save even more, bringing the price down to just $30 a month.

After the initial three-month period, plans renew at $10 extra, costing $40 or $50 a month. To avoid the price hike, you can sign up for a longer term, such as a six-month or annual plan, which won't increase.

• Follow our WhatsApp channel and Instagram for more deals and buying guides.

Mint Mobile sale on phones

Mint's base plans require you to bring your own device, but you can also save big by buying one directly from the provider. Right now, the retailer is holding a holiday sale featuring hundreds off the entire Samsung Galaxy S26 and Google Pixel 11 lineup when bundled with Unlimited service. It's a great sale, especially if you have an old phone to trade in, which can save you even more.

Is Mint Mobile good?

Ask most price-savvy wireless service shoppers which company they should consider switching to for the lowest possible monthly phone bill, and Mint Mobile is almost guaranteed to come up. That's for good reason—Mint Mobile offers solid wireless service on the same networks the big names use for a fraction of the cost. Specifically, Mint Mobile runs on T-Mobile's nationwide 5G network and is now owned by that very company.

In our Mint Mobile review, we found that while overall service quality was pretty good, data speeds could be a little slow during peak usage. This affected video call quality enough that you might opt to wait until you're on WiFi for FaceTime action. But at only $15 a month, it is still one of the best values in alternative phone service, and signing up is easy thanks to Mint Mobile's deals targeting new customers.

How Mint Mobile's family plan works

Mint Mobile's "Modern Family" plan diverges from the traditional family plans often touted by other carriers, which typically offer discounts for adding lines. Instead, Mint charges the same rate for each line as it does for the first.

The real benefit of Mint's family plan lies in its centralized management rather than cost savings. Customers can initiate a family plan with at least two lines, each priced according to its data allowance. For instance, a family could opt for a plan that includes one unlimited data line, a 15GB line, and a 5GB line.

How Mint Mobile's unlimited data plan works

One of the Mint Mobile plans offers unlimited data starting at $30 per month (currently discounted to $15), making it one of the more budget-friendly options. Like many in its league, Mint limits the amount of high-speed data you get after hitting a certain threshold—40GB of usage in this case. After that, your speeds are cut down considerably until your cycle refreshes.

Be sure to take a look at our in-depth Mint Mobile review. See how it stacks up against Verizon's MVNO in our guide to Mint vs. Visible.

We've also compiled a roundup of today's best Visible phone plans if you'd like to check out the competition.

The best sensitive stomach cat food for your pet depends on the underlying cause of their digestive issues. Like humans, cats can experience occasional loose stools, constipation, or excessive gas. If your cat is showing these signs, a vet visit can rule out conditions such as food allergies or inflammatory bowel disease, which may require a prescription diet. If your cat is dealing with general digestive sensitivity, one of the foods in this guide may help.

To select the top sensitive stomach cat foods, I evaluated dozens of options and drew on guidance from veterinarians. I focused closely on ingredient quality and overall nutritional value. The veterinarians I spoke to recommend sensitive stomach formulas that include highly digestible animal proteins, low-to-moderate fat levels, and fewer carbohydrates. Many of these formulas also include probiotics and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, which can help ease gut inflammation and promote better digestion. Specific types of dietary fiber can also be beneficial.

All of my recommendations meet the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and follow the Global Nutrition Guidelines set by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA). These are key considerations when choosing the best cat food.

What are the signs of a sensitive stomach in a cat?

The signs can be easy to overlook. Because hairballs are common in cats, symptoms like vomiting and regurgitation are easy to dismiss. However, a cat that vomits material with very little to no hair or vomits more than once a week should be evaluated by their veterinarian, says Dr. Kelly Diehl, a veterinary internist with a subspecialty in gastroenterology. Other common signs of a sensitive stomach include loose stools and gas. While dietary changes may relieve symptoms for some cats, cats with food allergies may need a prescription hypoallergenic diet recommended by their veterinarian.

Highlights for the best sensitive stomach cat food

Best wet: Royal Canin Digestive Care Thin Slices in Gravy, 3 oz. cans (case of 12) - $29 at Chewy

Best dry: Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Skin Adult, 6 lb. bag - $48 at Chewy

Best for seniors: Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Prime Plus Ocean Whitefish and Salmon, 3 oz. cans (case of 24) - $47 at Chewy

Best for kittens: Royal Canin Kitten Loaf in Sauce, 3 oz. cans (case of 24) - $55 at Chewy

Best wet

As obligate carnivores, cats are built to get most of their nutrition from meat. While they can handle some carbohydrates — roughly what they'd consume from the stomach contents of prey — too many can be hard to digest and add extra calories. The best wet cat food tends to be higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates than dry food, which can help with weight control and digestion, says Dr. Jamie Richardson, a veterinarian and chief medical officer at Small Door Veterinary.

Our top picks from Royal Canin and Iams also include beneficial fibers and other ingredients that support easy digestion and help reduce gut inflammation. Royal Canin Digestive Care contains powdered cellulose, an insoluble fiber that can help ease constipation by bulking up stool and promoting more regular bowel movements, according to Tufts University. Iams Perfect Portions Sensitive Digestion and Skin contains fiber from beet pulp, a highly fermentable prebiotic fiber that feeds good gut bacteria to promote better digestion, says Ellen Dierenfeld, a comparative animal nutritionist and founder of Zootrition. Both formulas also contain omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, which have beneficial anti-inflammatory properties, says Dr. Eliza O'Callaghan, a veterinarian at Small Door Veterinary in New York City. Soothing an inflamed gut can improve nutrient absorption and reduce discomfort.

Switching to wet food can also help, whether it's a transition from dry to wet food or a switch from one wet food to another that's better suited for a sensitive stomach. Wet foods contain far more moisture than kibble, typically 75% to 78% compared to 10% to 12%. That extra hydration is important for cats who lose water through vomiting or diarrhea, says Dr. Kelly Fishman, a veterinarian and founder of Strut Animal Mobility Specialists.

To compare the nutritional profiles of wet and dry cat foods, you'll need to evaluate nutrients on a dry matter basis, which removes moisture so nutrients can be assessed based on the remaining solids. For the foods in this guide, we obtained dry matter values directly from manufacturers. To compare other recipes, you can follow these directions from the Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University, contact the manufacturer, or ask your veterinarian for help.

Best dry

Some cats with sensitive stomachs may have a harder time digesting kibble because it's typically higher in carbohydrates than wet food, says Richardson. That doesn't mean carbohydrates are inherently bad — cats can use them for energy, says Dr. Lisa Weeth, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. The type of carbohydrate matters. Simple carbohydrates, like sugars found in fruit, offer little digestive benefit for cats, while complex carbohydrate sources like whole wheat, corn, or oats provide fiber and other nutrients that can support healthy digestion, according to Tufts University.

Our top dry food picks pair easily digestible proteins with fiber-rich complex carbohydrates, including oatmeal, whole grain corn, cracked pearled barley, and whole grain sorghum. The best choice for your cat depends on their specific needs. Purina One +Plus Sensitive Skin and Stomach is high in soluble fiber, which absorbs liquid and slows digestion, making it helpful for cats with loose stools. Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Sensitive Skin is high in insoluble fiber, which helps bulk up stool and speed its passage through the digestive tract, making it a better fit for cats prone to constipation. It also contains coconut oil, which may help lubricate the intestinal tract and reduce inflammation, supporting digestion and helping reduce hairballs.

Wet food can be expensive, less convenient to serve, and some cats simply won't eat it. Fortunately, dry food can still be a good option for most cats. It has a long shelf life and stays fresh longer after opening. You can also buy larger quantities of kibble to lower the cost per serving, especially if it's one of our picks for the best affordable cat foods.

Best for seniors

As cats age, digestion slows, the intestinal wall thickens, and nutrient digestibility declines. A more sedentary lifestyle can further increase the risk of constipation. The signs of a sensitive stomach aren't always obvious — a dull coat, unexpected weight loss, or low energy can all point to an underlying problem. If you notice these changes, talk to your vet before switching foods. Cats are obligate carnivores and generally require high-protein diets, but Weeth says seniors with kidney or renal disease may require less protein.

Our higher-protein senior pick from Purina Pro Plan contains inulin, a good source of soluble fiber commonly derived from chicory root. This type of fiber slows digestion and can help firm up loose stools. It also includes fish oil, which may improve skin and joint health and ease gastrointestinal inflammation, and the wet food formulation helps replenish hydration lost through loose stools.

Our low-protein pick from Hill's contains insoluble fiber from complex carbohydrates, including whole grain corn, barley, and brown rice. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to the stool, speeding transit through the digestive tract to help relieve constipation. That bulking effect can also help pull hair through the digestive tract, aiding in hairball relief, according to Dr. Jennifer Larsen, a veterinarian and professor of clinical nutrition at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. Combined with L-carnitine, which helps convert fat into energy, insoluble fiber may also help senior cats maintain a healthy weight by keeping them feeling fuller between feedings.

While digestive changes are a normal part of aging, illness isn't. Diehl says cats are good at hiding when they're ill, but signs like chronic vomiting and loose or very pungent stool can signal underlying health issues. Your veterinarian can identify the cause and recommend dietary changes that may help. Diehl says it's essential to get guidance from your vet since managing a sensitive stomach through diet depends on many factors, including other underlying health conditions.

Best for kittens

Kittens with diarrhea can benefit from a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet, says Dr. Debra Zoran, a veterinary nutritionist and professor at Texas A&M University, adding that foods rich in protein and fat provide energy and support the healthy development of a kitten's gastrointestinal tract. Although pet food labels don't always list carbohydrate percentages, you can look for foods that list whole meats, meat meals, and byproducts among the first ingredients before carbohydrate sources.

The AAFCO recommendations say that kitten food, which is labeled for growth or all life stages, must contain at least 30% protein and 9% fat to support kittens' growth and energy needs. However, Zoran says the best kitten foods for sensitive stomachs should contain at least 40% protein on a dry matter basis. Just keep in mind that kittens could have an upset stomach for several reasons, including intestinal parasites. Because digestive upset can have many causes, including intestinal parasites, it's important to consult your veterinarian before changing your kitten's diet.

Our kitten picks include four different meat sources among the first five ingredients and exceed 40% protein on a dry matter basis. They also contain fish oil, a source of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid essential for cognitive growth and development. The main differences are their texture and fiber sources. Royal Canin is a wet food that contains powdered cellulose, an insoluble fiber that promotes more regular bowel movements. Unlike fermentable prebiotic fibers, it won't feed beneficial gut bacteria, but it also won't cause extra gas. Purina Pro Plan is a dry food that contains dried chicory root, a soluble, fermentable fiber that slows digestion to help relieve loose stools, while also feeding good gut bacteria.

What to look for in a sensitive stomach cat food

When shopping for cat food for a sensitive stomach, you'll want to consider the following criteria recommended by veterinarians.

AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement for growth, adult maintenance, or all life stages: The most basic measure of nutritionally complete kitten and cat food is an AAFCO statement on the label. The AAFCO is a nonprofit organization that recommends nutritional standards for pet food. Recommendations are based on life stages: Food with an AAFCO statement for growth or all life stages is complete and balanced for kittens, and food with an AAFCO statement for maintenance or all life stages is complete and balanced for adult cats. The AAFCO hasn't established specific recommendations for senior cat diets. Senior foods must meet the minimum AAFCO nutritional recommendations for adult or all life stages foods.

Guaranteed analysis and nutrient profiles: The guaranteed analysis on a pet food label shows the percentages of important nutrients, including protein, fat, fiber, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Food for kittens must meet the AAFCO's recommended minimum of 30% protein and 9% fat, and food for adult cats, including seniors, must have a minimum of 26% protein and 9% fat.

It's important to carefully examine the guaranteed analysis for cat foods. As obligate carnivores, cats can digest high-protein diets more easily than foods with low animal protein and high carbohydrates. For some cats, the best food may be high in protein, but high-protein diets can be harmful to some senior cats with certain health conditions. This is one reason it's essential to speak with your vet before transitioning diets.

Ingredients list: The ingredients on a pet food label appear in order of weight. Dierenfeld says that muscle meat proteins provide the best source of essential amino acids for obligate carnivores like cats. Animal-based proteins should always be listed as the first ingredient in cat food. The sensitive stomach cat foods in this guide include quality protein sources in the form of whole meat, meat meals, and meat byproducts. Saker says that meals and byproducts are concentrated forms of protein that are just as nutritious and digestible — if not more so — than whole protein sources.

You can also look for ingredients that promote healthy digestion and ease inflammation, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids in the form of fish oil.

Expert formulations: My picks for sensitive stomach cat food meet the WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines. This means the brands employ a full-time board-certified veterinary nutritionist or a PhD-level animal nutritionist. This expert oversight helps ensure your cat's food meets veterinarian-recommended standards for nutritionally complete and balanced food.

Manufacturing standards: Zoran says pet foods can vary slightly from batch to batch, which can trigger digestive upset in cats with sensitive stomachs. When choosing sensitive stomach food for your cat, it's wise to consider the quality control measures facilities where the food is produced. Brands that own their manufacturing plants have greater control over the ingredients in their recipes and, therefore, the food your cat consumes. Pet food brands should also be transparent about how they implement quality control measures. In short, they shouldn't just say they conduct quality control.

Calorie content: The calorie content of cat food is listed in kilocalories (kcal). Your cat's calorie needs will depend on their age, activity level, and overall health. For example, kittens grow quickly in their first year and should eat multiple high-calorie meals per day. Your vet can recommend the ideal number of daily calories for your adult or senior cat based on their lifestyle and ideal weight. They can also teach you how to check your cat's body condition score (BCS) between wellness visits. The BCS is a visual tool that helps you assess your cat's body fat on a scale of 1 to 9. This information can help you understand if your cat needs to lose or gain weight. That said, it's always best to talk to your vet before adjusting your cat's daily portion sizes.

How we chose the best sensitive stomach cat food

To narrow down the best sensitive stomach cat food, I spoke with several veterinarians, including four board-certified veterinary nutritionists. I also consulted the standards and recommendations from the AAFCO, the WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines, and other publications and organizations linked in this guide. Read more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products.

Meet the expert behind this guide

Janelle Leeson, pet nutrition reporter: As a writer specializing in cat health and wellness, I've spent years interviewing veterinarians and veterinary nutritionists about biologically appropriate diets for pets at all stages of life, informing more than a dozen nutrition guides for pet guardians. I'm also a guardian to two cats and have fostered more than 50 cats and kittens, many of whom struggled with sensitive stomachs caused by sudden changes in their environment or diet. For this guide, I consulted three board-certified veterinary nutritionists, a veterinary internist specializing in gastroenterology, a comparative animal nutritionist, and three small animal veterinarians. I also referenced nutritional standards set by AAFCO and the Global Nutrition Guidelines established by the WSAVA.

Sensitive stomach cat food FAQs

What is the best sensitive stomach cat food?

There's no single best cat food for all cats with sensitive stomachs. The right choice depends on the cause of your cat's upset stomach. Many sensitive stomach formulas are made with easy-to-digest animal proteins such as meat byproducts and meals, limited carbohydrates, and healthy additions like fish oil and fermentable fibers such as beet pulp. Limited ingredient diets can also help reduce potential food reactions.

However, over-the-counter diets may not be the best solution for every cat with a sensitive stomach. If your cat's upset stomach stems from food allergies, your veterinarian may recommend switching them to a prescription hydrolyzed diet. Hydrolyzed diets contain proteins broken down into very small fragments, which are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction.

What cat food is best for cats that throw up?

Cats that frequently vomit tend to do well on limited ingredient diets made with easy-to-digest proteins like chicken, turkey, or salmon. Recipes with added prebiotics and probiotics help balance gut bacteria, while omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil reduce gut inflammation. "Sometimes, simply switching the brand of food can do wonders," Diehl says. We recommend buying from trusted brands such as Purina, Hill's, and Royal Canin. They invest heavily in research and often partner with veterinary institutions to research and develop their formulas. Before trying to manage vomiting on your own, always consult your veterinarian. Ongoing vomiting can be a sign of an underlying health condition.

How do I know if my cat needs sensitive stomach food?

Diehl says signs your cat may benefit from a sensitive stomach food include vomiting soon after eating, vomiting small amounts of yellow or green liquid, or frequently having loose stools. "If you've labeled your cat a 'puker,' don't write it off," she says. Your veterinarian can help determine whether a sensitive stomach diet or prescription diet is appropriate.

What cat food is easiest on the stomach?

Because cats are obligate carnivores, animal-based proteins are the easiest foods for them to digest. This includes whole meats, such as deboned chicken, meat meals, and meat byproducts. While cats can eat recipes that contain multiple protein sources, they don't need a new recipe each day. In fact, Dierenfeld says switching recipes daily can affect your cat's appetite and upset their gut microbiome.

What makes sensitive stomach cat food different?

The best cat food for a sensitive stomach typically contains moderate to low levels of fat and highly digestible protein sources that are easily absorbed. Many also include supplements that decrease gut inflammation and improve digestion, such as omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil and probiotics. However, specific ingredients and nutritional profiles of sensitive stomach foods can vary from brand to brand. If you're unsure about your cat's digestive health or nutritional needs, your veterinarian can provide individualized guidance.

Is wet or dry food better for a cat with an upset stomach?

Dry foods generally contain more carbohydrates and less moisture than wet foods. Richardson says this may make dry food harder for some cats with sensitive stomachs to digest. Wet foods typically provide higher protein and lower carbohydrate content, which can make them a better choice for cats with sensitive stomachs. When deciding between wet and dry food, Saker advises considering your cat's preferences and the types of special diets available. Some hydrolyzed diets your vet may recommend for severe food allergies only come in kibble form.

What should you feed a senior cat with a sensitive stomach? 

Your veterinarian should guide diet choices if your senior cat has a sensitive stomach. Gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting or diarrhea can be the first signs of age-related diseases. Some older cats may benefit from lower-protein foods, such as Hill's Science Diet Specialty Perfect Digestion Adult 7+ Chicken and Barley Recipe, which includes fish oil to support skin, joint, and gut health. Senior cats healthy enough for a higher-protein option may benefit from Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Prime Plus Ocean Whitefish and Salmon Entree, which contains inulin from chicory root to aid digestion. Because chronic kidney disease affects approximately 40% of cats over age 10, high-protein diets should be fed to senior cats only with veterinary supervision.

• President Donald Trump wants communities to welcome data centers.
• He said he's not entirely sure he wants one in his backyard.
• Some Virginia residents already live next to data centers that are just beyond their property lines.

President Donald Trump says he isn't sure he would want a data center in his backyard.

"I would like to have data centers," Trump told Time Magazine as part of a cover story interview published on Thursday. "It doesn't mean I want them right next to my house, but certainly I like them in my county."

Trump has repeatedly defended the benefits of data centers and the AI industry more broadly, as polling shows widespread public skepticism. Republican governors have also begun to rein in incentives for data centers.

Communities that don't welcome data centers, Trump said, are also passing up on potentially lucrative tax revenue. As he has before, the president portrayed communities that oppose data center development as wrong and impoverished.

"If you want to be poor, you want to have no money, if you don't want to have a job, and if you want to live in a crime-infested area, squalor, all the things that go along with it, you should not have a data center," he said.

Amid the growing backlash against data centers, some AI and tech leaders have begun considering other ways to supply the compute they need to train and then run cutting-edge AI models. SpaceX CEO Elon Musk is pursuing orbital data centers. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has suggested data centers are better suited for deserts.

As he welcomed AI executives to the White House on Tuesday, Trump told reporters that data centers would become "very popular" as residents see what their cooperation will bring to their communities.

"They're going to make the community happy," Trump said. "That might be supplying oil and gas. It might be supplying education. It may be helping teachers along financially, helping people along financially."

Trump described how, in some cases, a data center can be "right next to a guy's house," a reality some residents in Loudoun County, Virginia, face.

Loudoun County, home to the famed "Data Center Alley," once allowed many data centers to be built by right, including some near residential neighborhoods. In 2025, county supervisors ended by-right approvals for new data centers. New proposals must now go through a review process that includes public hearings, among other steps.

Trump's hope for a data center in his county is also complicated.

Last week, the Palm Beach County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on the construction of large-scale data centers. Before the vote, the commissioners rejected a proposed plan for a hyperscale data center, WPTV reported.

A smaller data center plan for the site, which was previously approved, is expected to proceed.

Amazon offers a wide range of Fire TV streaming devices, from compact Fire Sticks to full-fledged smart TVs. All provide access to popular video apps and support Alexa, but certain models are better suited to specific needs.

For instance, the brand's cheapest, entry-level Fire TV Stick HD delivers high-definition playback, which is enough for smaller displays and some older TVs. But most people will be better off with one of the company's 4K-capable models, like the flagship Fire TV Stick 4K Max, which supports Ultra HD video and Dolby Vision for enhanced color and contrast on compatible TVs. Amazon also sells its own smart TVs with the Fire TV operating system (OS). These sets are now branded as part of the company's Ember collection. Their picture quality can't compete with top TVs from other brands, but when they're on sale, they're decent budget options for fans of Amazon's ecosystem.  

With so many Fire TVs to consider, it's important to understand the key differences between models. To help you pick the best Fire TV Stick or display for your setup, we've detailed all the ins and outs of each offering, including pricing and defining features.

Did Amazon raise Fire TV prices?

In August 2026, Amazon raised the prices of several of its devices, including Fire TV Sticks, with models now carrying an MSRP that's $5 to $60 more than before. Amazon says the price hike is the result of increased costs for memory and storage. In addition to Fire TV products, Amazon also raised prices for several Echo and Kindle devices.

However, despite the price hike, Amazon continues to offer frequent discounts on Fire TV models, so it's still rare to actually find them selling at full price. In fact, recent deal prices have remained well below each model's original MSRP. Here's a rundown of current Fire TV devices affected by the August 2026 price increase, along with details on the best deals we've seen since then.

Fire TV Stick HD

The Fire TV Stick HD is Amazon's most affordable streaming device. Like the company's other sticks, this compact dongle plugs directly into your TV's HDMI port. It also supports direct power from your TV via a USB connection. Once powered on, you can use the included Alexa Voice Remote to navigate the stick's interface and access all the best streaming services. 

The Fire TV Stick HD can stream video at 1080p resolution, making it ideal for HDTVs with an HDMI connection. The device also supports high dynamic range (HDR) using the HDR10 and HDR10+ formats. This feature delivers enhanced colors and contrast when streaming HDR videos through apps like Disney Plus. That said, most HDR-supporting TVs are 4K models, and if you have a 4K TV, we highly recommend you pay a bit more for one of Amazon's 4K sticks.

The latest model offers a few upgrades over older versions, including a slimmer design, WiFi 6 connectivity, support for Amazon's enhanced Alexa+ voice assistant, and access to the Xbox app. With the Xbox app, a Game Pass Ultimate membership, and a Bluetooth controller, you can stream Xbox games to your Fire TV Stick HD without a console. Meanwhile, Alexa+ is an upgraded version of Alexa that leverages AI for more conversational control. Alexa+ is free with a Prime membership, but costs $20 a month without one.

Fire TV Stick 4K

As the name suggests, the Fire TV Stick 4K streams at a higher resolution than the Fire TV Stick HD. With 4K (Ultra HD) support, you get a sharper, more detailed image when watching 4K videos on a 4K TV. This model also carries over support for HDR playback with HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG.

The latest version of the Fire TV Stick 4K was released in September 2026, replacing Amazon's older Fire TV Stick 4K Select and Fire TV Stick 4K Plus to simplify the lineup. You may still be able to find those two older models while existing stock lasts, but this new Fire TV Stick 4K is positioned as Amazon's sole midrange streaming stick going forward.

This model is the first to use Amazon's newly redesigned Fire TV remote, which has a more ergonomic shape and revised buttons that are easier to tell apart by touch. Like the Fire TV Stick HD, it also supports drawing power directly from your TV via a USB connection. This means you don't have to plug it into a power outlet.

The Fire TV Stick 4K is a solid midrange option for shoppers who own a 4K TV. However, if you're willing to spend more, the brand's step-up 4K Max offers a couple of extra perks, such as Dolby Vision support, more memory, and a faster processor.

Fire TV Stick 4K Max

The Fire TV Stick 4K Max is one of our picks for the best streaming devices you can buy. Compared to the standard Fire TV Stick 4K, this model offers a faster processor, GPU, and more storage. This makes navigation a little snappier and lets you save more apps and games.

In addition, the 4K Max is now the only Fire TV Stick in Amazon's current lineup to support Dolby Vision HDR. Dolby Vision can provide your TV with better guidance for displaying HDR images when watching Dolby Vision content on a compatible display. Dolby Vision is a popular format that's used on many streaming services, like Netflix, so this is a nice feature to have. Check out our HDR TV guide for more information about the various HDR formats.

Amazon released the latest version of its Fire TV Stick 4K Max in September 2023. Compared to the previous-generation model, this new edition features an upgraded CPU, double the storage capacity, and support for WiFi 6E routers. It also has a revised design with rounded edges.

But despite being more advanced than other Fire TV Sticks in most ways, this model doesn't support direct power from your TV over USB. It has to be plugged into a wall outlet to get sufficient power. It also features an older remote than the newly redesigned one that's included with the standard Fire TV Stick 4K.

Though it has a higher MSRP, the Fire TV Stick 4K Max is sometimes on sale for less than the standard Fire TV Stick 4K. Given typical deal prices, we recommend this as the best Fire TV Stick for most people with a modern 4K TV.

Fire TV Cube

The Fire TV Cube is the best Fire TV for pure processing power. It incorporates all the key features of the Fire TV Stick 4K Max, but has a more powerful CPU and is designed to be a more traditional home theater device. Instead of a dongle that hangs from your TV's HDMI port, the Cube is a compact box that sits on your TV stand and plugs into your display via an HDMI cable. 

One of the Fire TV Cube's key benefits is its hands-free Alexa voice control, enabled by its built-in microphones. In other words, the Cube can act like an Echo device. The newest model also has an HDMI passthrough port for controlling cable boxes, twice the storage space as the stick models, 4K upscaling to make HD videos look better, and overall faster performance.

The Fire TV Cube is a premium streaming box designed to compete with devices like the Apple TV 4K, Roku Ultra, and Google TV Streamer. It's best suited for home theater enthusiasts who want the brand's absolute best quality and fastest technology.

Amazon Ember smart TVs

Amazon also sells its own lineup of full-fledged smart TVs, all of which use a built-in version of Fire TV OS. Amazon's displays don't make our guide to the best TVs, but when on sale, they're decent budget options for fans of the Fire TV ecosystem. These displays are now branded as Amazon Ember TVs and are sold across five series.

Amazon Ember 2-Series - See at Amazon
This is Amazon's basic entry-level HDTV, available in 32-inch 720p and 40-inch 1080p options. The 2025 model adds a faster processor and WiFi 6 support. However, its direct-lit LED panel can't deliver the brightness, contrast, or color needed for impactful HDR, so it's best reserved for shoppers who want a cheap TV for casual viewing in a smaller space.

Amazon Ember 4-Series - See at Amazon
Amazon's 4-Series is its most affordable 4K TV, with 43-, 50-, and 55-inch sizes. The 2025 model offers a faster processor and WiFi 6, but its image capabilities remain largely unchanged: It lacks local dimming, a wide color gamut, and Dolby Vision, resulting in weak HDR performance. It's a decent fit for a smaller, affordable 4K TV for a bedroom, but not for home theater use.

Amazon Ember QLED Series - See at Amazon
The Omni QLED adds hands-free Alexa control through built-in microphones, letting you adjust power, volume, navigation, and search without the remote. It also adds quantum-dot color, Dolby Vision support, and local dimming on the 55-, 65-, and 75-inch sizes. The 2025 version is a little brighter and faster than its predecessor, but the 50-inch model no longer has local dimming. It offers better picture quality than Amazon's cheaper sets, but similarly priced TCL and Hisense models deliver superior performance.

Read our full Amazon Ember QLED TV review.

Amazon Ember Mini LED Series - See at Amazon
Amazon's flagship Mini LED Series combines the Ember QLED's features with a Mini LED backlight for much higher brightness and more precise contrast control. Its 4K QLED panel supports Dolby Vision and a refresh rate of up to 144Hz, giving it more impactful HDR performance and smoother gaming than Amazon's other TVs. It's the best Fire TV display Amazon has released, but its retail price is a little high compared with competing Mini LED models, so most buyers should wait for a sale.

Read our full Amazon Ember Mini LED TV review.

Amazon Ember Artline Series - See at Amazon
This is Amazon's frame-style TV available in 55- and 65-inch sizes, with a matte anti-reflective screen, slim wall mount, magnetic bezels, and access to more than 2,000 free pieces of artwork. It does a solid job displaying art and includes useful hands-free Alexa+ controls, but its prominent front sensor bar interrupts the framed-art illusion, while its 60Hz panel, lack of local dimming, and mediocre built-in speakers limit home theater and gaming performance. It's a decent alternative to Samsung's Frame TV when discounted, but its flaws make it hard to recommend at full price.

Read our full Amazon Ember Artline TV review.

Fire TV Soundbar

The Fire TV soundbar is a compact 2.0-channel speaker designed to rest in front of your TV. It features an HDMI eARC and optical port for easy connection to most modern displays, and it also supports Bluetooth for wireless music playback from a mobile device.

At 24 inches wide, the soundbar is relatively small, making it easy to set up on most TV stands. Though it doesn't include a subwoofer or offer advanced features like up-firing audio drivers with Dolby Atmos support, the Fire TV Soundbar does support DTS Virtual:X to simulate surround sound. That said, at this price range and performance class, buyers shouldn't expect too much from this feature.  

And despite the Fire TV branding, this is a soundbar only. It does not feature built-in support for streaming video apps. The base model includes only a standard remote, but you can pay more for a package that includes an Alexa Voice Remote Pro. 

Based on the specs and affordable $120 price tag, Amazon is positioning this as an entry-level soundbar for people who just want a simple, compact, and inexpensive upgrade for their TV's speakers.

Fire TV Soundbar Plus

This step-up soundbar model from Amazon is a bit larger than the standard Fire TV Soundbar, coming in at 37 inches rather than 24. Though less compact, it delivers beefier audio performance, with a built-in woofer for bass and a dedicated center channel for dialogue.

The Fire TV Soundbar Plus also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding. However, it still lacks up-firing audio drivers, so it can't fully take advantage of those formats' main benefits.

Amazon also sells bundles that include the Fire TV Soundbar Plus with a wireless subwoofer or a wireless subwoofer and surround speakers. Again, these are decent entry-level audio options, but there are better soundbars available for the money. If you're looking for something with more oomph, check out our top recommendations:

• Best soundbars
• Best Dolby Atmos soundbars
• Best budget soundbars
• Best soundbars with subwoofers
• Best Sonos soundbars
• Best Bose soundbars
• Best surround sound systems

• Taula Capital lost 12.2% in a concentrated, interest-rate-focused strategy in September.
• The London-based manager raised $1.5 billion in March and launched the strategy in April.
• The strategy's first six months of trading have resulted in a 12.8% loss.

September's bond market pain has stung Diego Megia's $9 billion hedge fund Taula Capital.

The firm's TSO fund — which runs a concentrated strategy that made a large bet on European interest rates going down — is down 12.8% through September since it launched six months ago, two people familiar with the matter told Business Insider. The strategy lost 12.2% in September alone, the two people said, meaning a vast majority of the fund's losses came last month.

The firm raised $1.5 billion for the young fund in March, and backers can't redeem their capital until next spring, the people added.

Taula declined to comment.

Global interest rates have jumped thanks to sticky inflation, the ongoing war in Iran, and artificial intelligence companies flooding the fixed-income market with new debt issuance.

For many asset managers who expected Kevin Warsh, the Federal Reserve chair, and other central bankers to cut rates or hold steady, last month's rate hike has been stomach-churning.

That was particularly painful for TSO, whose concentrated strategy is positioned for European interest rates to fall. Instead, they moved sharply in the opposite direction. An index of global government bonds compiled by Bloomberg had its worst quarter since 2024, falling more than 2%, and French debt in particular had its worst quarter in decades.

As ExodusPoint macro portfolio manager Matt Dratch said on X, bonds are "having their 'Situational Awareness' moment," referencing the implosion of Leopold Aschenbrenner's AI-focused tech fund in August.

"Except perhaps everyone is Leopold this time," Dratch added.

This is the second time this year macro investors have been stung by interest-rate moves. In the spring, when the US first bombed Iran, several managers, including Taula, suffered losses.

The London-based firm's flagship strategy, which manages money for Megia's former employer, Millennium Management, and is more diversified than the TSO fund, has also lost money this month. It's down 4.3% through September 18, the people familiar with the firm said. That loss brought the flagship's 2026 losses to nearly 10% through the same date.

It's not yet clear how the firm's macro peers have fared in September's volatility. More diversified funds, including Millennium and fixed-income-heavy multistrategy manager ExodusPoint Capital Management, were flat and down 0.7% last month, respectively, Business Insider previously reported.

Our team at Business Insider covers Prime Day deals each year in the summer and fall by tracking discounts on tested products from our buying guides and reviews. But beyond our own product recommendations, we also ask colleagues, friends, and family what they plan to buy. Consider it our version of consumer research.

Who better to ask than parents, who are experienced at managing household budgets and making practical purchases?

After chatting with several people, the biggest trend I saw was parents investing in items that would reduce screen time, encourage creative play, or lead to more outdoor activities. One standout is the Yoto Mini, a clever audio player with no screen that two moms have on their list for car time entertainment. Some said they were waiting to check deals on the basics (like snacks), but most seem keen on finding ways to keep their kids away from the iPad.

While we don't know which of these items will actually be on sale, these are the products parents are waiting for October Prime Day to buy.

A knee-saving bath mat

The PandaEar Non-Slip Kneeling Mat (current price: $18.95)

"As an expecting parent, my cart is full of postpartum essentials I'm waiting to buy on sale during Prime Day (that is, if I get lucky with deal prices). One of the things I'm hoping goes on sale is this kneeling mat for bath time. Even though it's not expensive, when you have a hundred things to buy at a time, it adds up. We have sliding glass doors on our tub instead of a shower curtain, so we're also looking for a clever elbow rest solution — but in the meantime, if we can make kneeling on the floor any more comfortable, we'll take it!" — Sally Kaplan, executive editor, BI

Yoto Player for screen-free entertainment

The Yoto Player (current price: $109) and the Yoto Player Mini (Current price: $79.99)

"My three kids, all under the age of 9, don't have iPads and don't even know how to unlock my phone. We are very much a no-screen family, unless we are watching a movie together. We also love taking road trips and have relied on kids' podcasts and Peppa Pig stories to help keep our kids entertained while on the road.

That said, they are all growing and having different interests, and agreeing on what to listen to is becoming harder and harder.

That's why I want to get all three their own Yoto Player. That way, we can still travel without screens, but everyone has the independence to choose a story, song, or podcast to listen to. I'm also throwing in headphones for each so our car doesn't turn into a cacophony of competing stories.

I really like that the Yoto cards don't have any ads, which is the one complaint I have about listening to kids' podcasts. I always try to skip ahead, but then get whining when I accidentally skip five seconds from the story they are listening to.

Yoto has over 1,000 cards to choose from, and they are small enough that we can bring the player plus several cards on not only road trips, but also planes." — Conz Preti, deputy editor, BI.

Freelance writer Hawys Boobier also has a Yoto on her Prime Day wish list.

"My 5-year-old is a real bookworm and goes to sleep every night listening to her Yoto Player. I really want to get her the mini version so that we can stop lugging the big box around when we travel.

She also gets very car sick, so non-screen-based entertainment for long journeys is always a winner." — Hawys Boobier, freelance writer.

Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen for sensitive skin

Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen (current price: $14.94)

"I'm restocking my go-to baby SPF: Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen. Not only is it sensitive-skin-friendly with a clean formula that's safe for little ones, but it's reef-conscious, too. Hello, scrapbook-worthy summer memories with my little family, snacks and sun protection included." — Olivia Rose Rushing, freelance style and beauty writer.

Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 for encouraging photography without phones

Kodak PIX PRO FZ55 (current price: $129.99)

"I'm on the hunt for an inexpensive digital camera to hand over to my kids this summer. At 6 and 8, they've outgrown the bulky, plastic-encased shooter I bought when my oldest was 4, and I don't love handing over my iPhone every time they want to film a video or stage a photo shoot.

Friends of ours have the Camp Snap and love it, but the elder millennial in me craves the gratification of seeing an image right after it's taken, and I seem to have passed that need along to my offspring.

I've narrowed down my search to the budget-friendly Kodak PIXPRO FZ55. It's not flashy, but it has a nice screen, the user interface seems easy enough for my kids to navigate, and it should be compact enough for them to carry around without complaining. The camera has more than 7,500 reviews on Amazon, and 80% of them are 5 stars as of the time this story was written.

I'm hoping that being able to play around a bit with the zoom and lighting functions will help my kids elevate their budding photography skills and give them new ways to beat summertime boredom." — Jennifer Beck Goldblatt, senior editor, Health + Parenting

The Chicco FastLock Go for portable seating

Chicco FastLock Go (current price: $79.99)

I'm waiting for Prime Day to buy this Chicco hook-on high chair seat for my best friend's almost-14-month-old, who is at our house for meals at least once or twice a week. Another of our good friends is a nanny, and she recommended it wholeheartedly — especially for traveling and restaurants. She keeps one in her car in case there are no high-chairs available. She showed us how it works, and assuaged our collective concern about whether it would be secure enough, especially on a counter-height kitchen island.

I ultimately chose this model because the seat itself is machine washable, and it comes with a tray for easier cleanup. There's a slightly less expensive version that comes without the tray, but that opens us up to the risk of flying plates, so tray it is! It also holds kids up to 37 lbs, so we should be able to use it for a long time (I'm also 19 weeks pregnant, so I know it will come in handy for us in the future). — Sally Kaplan, executive editor, BI

Huggies Natural Care Baby Wipes and Honest Company Diapers

Huggies Natural Care Baby Wipes (current price: $42.97)and Honest Company Diapers (current price: $49.49)

"We go through wipes at an alarming rate between diaper changes, post-meal cleanups, and the miscellaneous messes of a 13-month-old. I like buying wipes in bulk so that I'm rarely surprised when we're running low, and Huggies Natural Care Baby Wipes seem to be the most cost-effective without sacrificing quality, size, or feel. We also love Honest Company Diapers. They're a little on the pricier side, but we like them for their fit, effectiveness, and, honestly, the leopard print is so cute. They keep my son dry, they don't leak, and since they aren't overly padded, he can move freely."— Elle Hoffman-Shayowitz, customer success team manager.

JLab Go Sport+ Earbuds for sports and everyday listening

JLab Go Sport+ Earbuds (current price: $31.99)

"What I am excited about buying for my moody, music-loving teen is a pair of JLab Go Sport+ earbuds. They're inexpensive, which is key for an ADHD kid who loses everything that's not glued to him. I also love that the charging cord is built into the case, giving us one less thing to lose in the chaos pit of his bedroom.

He already has a different model from JLab, but complains that they fall out of his ears all the time, so I think the ear hooks will solve this problem, too. And now, even if he changes his mind about his favorite artist five times before the summer is over, I won't regret my purchase." — Sabrina Rojas Weiss, freelance writer.

JOYIN Recycling Truck Toy for truck-obsessed toddlers

JOYIN Recycling Truck Toy (current price: $36.99)

"We were at a friend's place recently, and my transport-loving 1-year-old was glued to this recycling truck toy, so I'll be keeping an eye out for a Prime Day discount. It comes complete with trash cans, it beeps and lights up, and it can even move on its own.

Hopefully, in due course, it will even teach him about the environment, so it's kind of educational, too. Anything that buys hours of fun for him and relative peace for me is welcome in our house." — Hawys Boobier, freelance writer.

Little Spoon Kale Apple Meltable Baby Puffs for snacks on the go

Little Spoon Kale Apple Meltable Baby Puffs (current price: $19.96, 4-pack)

"Summertime with a toddler means getting out of the house and going on adventures as much as possible — and every parent knows that packing snacks is a total must. This Prime Day, I plan on stocking up on some easy-to-grab Little Spoon essentials, like the Kale Apple Meltable Baby Puffs. They're not only yummy and fun for little ones, but made with whole ingredients." — Olivia Rose Rushing, freelance style and beauty writer.

Podoru MagSafe Battery Pack for keeping devices charged while traveling

Podoru MagSafe Battery Pack (current price: $29.99)

"We're taking our son on a family trip to Italy soon, and I want to make sure we keep all of our devices charged while traveling. We don't normally allow him much screen time, but an eight-hour flight is an all-bets-are-off situation. I like that this charger has MagSafe functionality for mine and my husband's phones, plus built-in USB-C cables that we can use for my son's tablet and headphones. Not having to worry about misplacing charging cables is a huge plus."— Elle Hoffman-Shayowitz, customer success team manager.

DoubleFill Wicker Insulated Picnic Basket for family outings

DoubleFill Wicker Insulated Picnic Basket (current price: $52.99)

"Last Prime Day, I added an insulated, retro wicker picnic basket to my cart. It fits everything and keeps my daughter's treats cool for hours on end. It's also something so many moms have complimented me on when we're out and about, making it a tried-and-tested must in my eyes." — Olivia Rose Rushing, freelance style and beauty writer.

Eufy Robot Vacuum and Mop for easy cleanup

Eufy Robot Vacuum and Mop (current price: $499.98)

"I've been desperate for a robot vacuum for a while, and this one from Eufy, which is also a mop, gets rave reviews. As a mom of two young kids, I feel like I spend my whole time cleaning, so the prospect of coming down to a sparkling floor in the morning with minimal effort is just too tempting." — Hawys Boobier, freelance writer.

Graco EasyTurn 360 2-in-1 Rotating Convertible Car Seat for less back pain

Graco EasyTurn 360 2-in-1 Rotating Convertible Car Seat (current price: 349.99)

"Our 13-month-old is a bit small for his age, so we've been able to get some extra time out of his infant car seat. Now, it's about time to transition to a toddler seat. We're eyeing the Graco EasyTurn 360 2-in-1 Rotating Convertible Car Seat. The rotating seat will make it easier to get our son in and out of the car, and the slim design is also great because we drive a Jetta and space is at a premium." — Elle Hoffman-Shayowitz, customer success team manager.

• We knew from the start that we'd need to keep our wedding costs low.
• Our friends offered to officiate, DJ, photograph, and help coordinate the day.
• Their generosity is letting us create a meaningful celebration we can actually afford.

At the age of 39, I already had two failed marriages under my belt and could never have expected to enter another engagement. Life held its own plan for me, bringing the man I was searching for all along when I least expected it.

Roger had never married and never expected to be. We began our relationship straight out of my failing second marriage, and we were both at a loss about what our end goal would be — until we fell in love hard and never looked back.

My family had helped financially with the previous weddings

Preparing for my previous weddings was much simpler. Both families chipped in financially, which seems to be customary. Roger's and my wedding would be much more difficult to afford. Roger's father died 13 years ago, and his mother has Alzheimer's disease. We knew that we would need to find our own way to make our wedding dreams come true.

The most reasonable solution was to opt for a lengthy engagement, giving us over two years' time to plan and budget for our big day. Roger is a respiratory care specialist and is currently in massage therapy school. I am a freelance writer and a pet caretaker. We are raising Roger's daughter and caring for our dog and two cats. In today's economy, we are living paycheck to paycheck.

We had to get creative

Instead of an engagement party, we opted for a Stock the Bar Party. In lieu of gifts, attendees will bring bottles of spirits to be served at our wedding reception. Each bottle will earn them a raffle ticket toward a chance to win a free massage. This option will allow us some relief on alcohol costs and will also give Roger more practice with his massage skills.

The first item that we secured was the venue. We were able to find a marina that was cost-effective, flexible, and offered both ceremony and reception space. The tables and chairs are included in the cost, as well as a kitchen area for the reception. The venue provides security to assist with parking, so there will be no need for parking attendants. When we called to put down our deposit, we were pleasantly surprised to receive a 10% discount for booking so early.

We created a free wedding website to help us stay organized. Here are the details of our events, guest list, and registry. We opted out of sending Save-the-Dates and are only sending invitations. I use social media to find ideas for everything from décor to planning, and I have joined wedding budget groups online for cost-effective advice.

Roger and I have a large group of friends, and we are enlisting them to help however they can. We knew a local bar owner who headed "adult bingo" on Thursday nights, and we knew he would be the perfect mix of crude humor and soft heart to officiate our wedding. He said it was on his bucket list to marry a couple and that he was honored to do us the favor.

We have a friend who is glad to DJ for us for a low cost, and a friend-of-a-friend who offered his photography in exchange for a wedding invite. One of Roger's classmates will be our MC, ensuring the day runs smoothly and directing guests as needed. We have had plenty of offers from others to help with planning, decorating, and catering.

Ideally, Roger and I would have had a lighter financial burden as we plan for our coming wedding. In a perfect world, we would have the help of each of our families. Instead, we find ourselves navigating the process alone. At our age, we understand the value of what truly matters.

Life may not have dealt me the hand that I expected, but Roger was always in my cards.

• Business Insider asked three experienced bartenders to share which drinks are in and out for fall.
• Savory cocktails, nonalcoholic, and low-ABV drinks are becoming popular orders.
• Hugo Spritzes, cucumber drinks, and pumpkin-spice cocktails may be falling out of favor.

From pumpkin spice and apple cinnamon to chai and maple, fall brings to mind plenty of cozy, warming flavors.

These seasonal staples show up in our food as well as our drinks, but some bartenders are also experimenting with unexpected ingredients and fresh takes on classic fall flavors.

To find out which beverages are worth ordering this season and ones you may want to skip, Business Insider spoke with three bartenders about the trends they're seeing the most from behind the bar.

Savory and produce-forward cocktails are having a moment.

Jenneca Younger, a lead bartender at The Mothership in Milwaukee, said savory cocktails are still very much trending — especially if they're made with fresh produce.

"I love a savory cocktail. I feel like there's a big uptick in my social media on all of those tomato martinis," Younger told BI. Ordering a cocktail "dirty" (with olive brine) is in, too.

Additionally, she said, she's also seeing bartenders incorporate purées made from fresh produce, like shisito peppers or squash, into classics like margaritas and gimlets.

Darker days call for darker spirits.

As the weather gets colder in the fall, drinkers tend to gravitate toward more whiskey-based cocktails and darker spirits, Younger said.

In contrast to the lighter, crisper spirits that are popular in summer, Younger said whiskey-based cocktails tend to become more popular as temperatures cool.

Some examples include Manhattans (made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters) and Boulevardiers (often made with bourbon or whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari).

Tea-infusions can add unexpected flavors to fall cocktails.

Chris Hewes, beverage director and bartender at Coast Range in Solvang, California, said he's been especially loving tea cocktails lately.

He especially enjoys pairing Thai tea with whiskey, cognac, mezcal, or rum to really extract the tea's vanilla-like flavors.

Espresso martinis with a twist are hitting the spot.

Steve Bell, lead bartender at The Hitchcock in Nashville, said there's been growing interest in riffing on the classic espresso martini.

Customers are liking them with tequila or rum instead of the usual vodka, he said.

"You can get people wanting bourbon espresso martinis, which honestly doesn't sound very good to me, but some people like it," Bell added.

Hewes said he's also been experimenting with creams and toppers for coffee cocktails after being inspired by a drink topped with Chartreuse (an herbal liqueur) whipped cream.

Low-ABV and nonalcoholic cocktails are only getting more interesting.

Both Younger and Hewes said they're seeing bartenders find more and more ways to work low-ABV and nonalcoholic drinks into their menus.

For example, Hewes said, wine is being incorporated into certain cocktails to lower their overall alcohol content.

He said those looking to experiment with lower-ABV cocktails can also try ordering a mocktail or nonalcoholic drink as a flavorful base, then add a small amount of alcohol to it.

On the other hand, overly complicated cocktails may be on their way out.

Fat-washing, infusions, molecular gastronomy, and other fancy tricks have made their way into cocktails over the years, but Bell said people are moving away from overly complicated techniques and back toward something simpler.

"People want riffs on classics, not something that feels like Gordon Ramsay sitting in front of you telling you about all the crazy types of techniques," Bell said.

Let's give the Hugo Spritz a break.

Younger said she's over the Hugo Spritz — a popular summertime drink typically made with prosecco, elderflower liqueur, club soda, and mint.

"It just feels watered down to me," she said. It's time to replace the light, refreshing drink with something that packs more flavor.

For example, a "more flavorful" and timeless French 75 that uses prosecco and mixes it with lemon juice, gin, and simple syrup in a punchy way.

As an alternative, she also suggests Death in the Afternoon, a bubbly drink "with a little more punch" as it's typically made with chilled sparkling wine and absinthe.

Pumpkin spice is getting too predictable.

"I really just think the chai pumpkin stuff is not what people want," Hewes told BI.

Instead of relying on the usual pumpkin-spice flavors, Hewes is looking to seasonal ingredients and desserts for inspiration, including cranberry, rhubarb, sweet potato, and fruit cobblers.

Younger also said using stone fruit, cinnamon, clove, and pimento dram are other more creative ways to bring fall flavors into cocktails.

"Tiny tinis" can be cute, but they may not catch on everywhere.

Mini martinis, sometimes called "tiny tinis," are smaller versions of the classic cocktail, offering a cute presentation as well as a way to have alcohol in a more controlled portion.

Hewes said some bars are trying to make the smaller pours a trend, but he doesn't see the mini version of cocktails taking off in most places.

"I think people get more mad at seeing a small martini, to be honest," Hewes told BI. Those looking to cut back their alcohol consumption may just be better off ordering a lower-ABV drink.

Cucumber cocktails could use an upgrade.

Hewes said he's ready to move away from cucumber in cocktails and recommends swapping it for a more unexpected ingredient this fall.

He suggests arugula as one alternative, which can even take on a honeysuckle-like flavor when combined with honey. Arugula also pairs well with cranberries and strawberries, he said.

• Watch originals like the Ben Affleck-directed "Animals" and Wu-Tang Clan documentary "The Disciple."
• Watch all the "Twilight" and "Jason Bourne" movies.
• Also check out "Heat," "The Sixth Sense," and "The Prestige."

Check out the best movies to watch on the streaming giant in October.

"Call Me by Your Name" (October 1)

Directed by Luca Guadagnino with a screenplay by James Ivory, we follow a teen (Timothée Chalamet) as he has a sexual awakening when a twentysomething (Armie Hammer) enters his life, all set in lush 1980s Italy.

All the "Jason Bourne" movies (October 1)

If you are looking for some action this weekend, Netflix currently has all the "Jason Bourne" movies (yes, even "The Bourne Legacy," starring Jeremy Renner). Watch as Matt Damon completely beats the hell out of anyone who crosses his path.

"The Menu" (October 1)

This darkly comedic horror follows a group of foodies who expect to get an amazing dinner at an exclusive restaurant. In reality, their chef (Ralph Fiennes) has set up some courses that will shock and, in some cases, kill his patrons.

Anya Taylor-Joy, Nicholas Hoult, and John Leguizamo also star.

"The Prestige" (October 1)

If Christopher Nolan has one underappreciated movie, it's probably this one.

Set in Victorian London, Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman play rival musicians who try to top one another with their illusions until it gets to the point where one of them takes things way too far.

Scarlett Johansson, Rebecca Hall, Andy Serkis, Michael Caine, and David Bowie also star.

"The Sixth Sense" (October 1)

Need another movie that is going to keep you guessing until the end? M. Night Shyamalan's masterpiece stars Bruce Willis as a psychologist who tries to help a young boy (Haley Joel Osment) who believes he sees dead people.

All the "Twilight" movies (October 1)

Once you are done watching all the "Jason Bourne" movies, go ahead and run through the "Twilight" franchise. Experience the love between Bella and Edward that captured the nation in the late 2000s.

"Animals" (October 9)

In Ben Affleck's latest Netflix original writing-directing effort, he plays a L.A. mayoral candidate whose life explodes when his son is kidnapped. Now he and his wife (Kerry Washington) must go into some dark places to get their child back.

"The Disciple" (October 16)

Wu-Tang Clan fans get ready. This documentary chronicles how Dutch-Moroccan rapper Cilvaringz found his way into the inner circle of one of the greatest rap groups of all time.

And not just that, but the doc also explores how Cilvaringz became part of the band's most mythological album, "Once Upon a Time in Shaolin."

"Heat" (October 16)

In Michael Mann's masterful crime drama, Robert De Niro plays the leader of a top-flight team of thieves. Al Pacino plays the gritty LAPD detective who is looking to take down the team.

It all leads to a showdown movie fans had never seen before: Pacino and De Niro on screen together.

Val Kilmer, Tom Sizemore, Amy Brenneman, Ashley Judd, and Jon Voight also star.

"Sacrifice" (October 16)

In this Netflix original, Chris Evans plays an actor who, in his quest for a comeback, gets abducted by a radical group led by Anya Taylor-Joy.

Salma Hayek, Vincent Cassel, Sam Richardson, Charlie XCX, and John Malkovich also star.

"Gladiator II" (October 21)

24 years after making the Oscar-winning original, Ridley Scott returns to the Roman arena, this time with Paul Mescal as his star. But it's Denzel Washington as the evil gladiator owner with plans to take over Rome, who is the movie's highlight.

As an expectant first-time mom, I packed my hospital bag with the mindset that I'd rather over-prepare than wish I'd brought something. On my list were plenty of practical items, but also a few comforts to make the delivery room feel more like my own space. With my Caraa Baby Hospital Bag in tow, I somehow fit everything from pajamas and toiletries to my own bedding with room to spare.

After several days in the hospital, I came home with a much better sense of what was genuinely useful, what could have stayed behind, and what I wish I'd brought. The biggest lesson: Hospitals generally provide many of the necessities, so precious packing space is better spent on things that make you more comfortable.

My 3 main takeaways on packing a hospital bag

1. Check what your hospital provides. Ours supplied nearly every postpartum and newborn essential we needed, from disposable underwear and pads for me to diapers and swaddles for our baby.
2. Prioritize comfort over outfit changes. I packed several lounge outfits, but mostly lived in nightgowns and robes. My personal labor and delivery gown got far more use than the extra sweats I brought.
3. A few nonessentials will make the hospital feel more like home. Flameless candles, a galaxy projector, and my own bedding weren't necessities, but they made labor and recovery more comfortable.

There were a few items I wish I'd packed.

A pumping bra. I was aware the hospital would supply a breast pump, but as a newbie mama, I didn't think to bring my own pumping bra. At a time when my proverbial and literal hands were full enough, I had to hold both collection bottles during every pumping session. I ordered a 2-pack of pumping bralettes on Amazon from the hospital, and it was waiting on my doorstep when I got home.

A donut pillow. For people anticipating a vaginal birth, a donut pillow may be worth its weight in packing real estate. My hospital provided foam egg crates, but they weren't substantial enough to make sitting anywhere but the bed comfortable. I bought my own donut pillow when I got home:

Some newborn outfits in a couple of sizes. Many hospitals offer a photographer for newborn photos. I packed one cute outfit based on my baby's predicted birth weight, but it was comically large after I went into labor three weeks early. If I could go back, I'd bring a few options in different sizes since there's no way to know exactly how your baby will fit into them.

I was glad I brought bone broth packets, entertainment, and an easy swaddle.

I used my iPad to watch shows with my husband to pass the time pre-delivery. It gave me something else to focus on during the long wait. This iPad Case has a built-in stand, so it was easy to set up on the hospital tray table and watch together.

Shelf-stable bone broth packets kept me full — or, as full as anyone can be on a hospital-mandated clear-liquid diet during labor. My husband microwaved cups of Kettle & Fire Chicken Bone Broth in the guest kitchenette for me.

An easy swaddle spared me from performing blanket origami on a wiggling, hours-old baby. This Momcozy Newborn Swaddle has a quiet fastener and a soft bamboo-cotton fabric.

I also brought some little luxuries that made my experience better.

I set the vibe in the delivery room. Creating a sanctuary helped calm my anxiety around childbirth. I didn't realize how much customization was allowed until my doula told me.

We dimmed the overhead lights, plugged in a galaxy projector, and scattered flameless tealight candles while my favorite playlist flowed through my bluetooth speaker. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting (every nurse who walked in complimented it), and my baby was born somewhere in the midst of the 10-minute version of Taylor Swift's All Too Well.

Having my own labor and delivery gown helped me feel more in control in a medical setting. Rather than wearing the standard hospital gown, I packed Kindred Bravely's Ruffle Strap Labor & Delivery Gown made from a soft, stretchy viscose-Spandex blend with Velcro closures down the back for epidural access without leaving me exposed. I also brought a backup delivery gown backup (labor is messy!) and wore it as a nursing nightgown on the first night after our baby was born.

I'm so glad I brought my own pillow. The hospital pillows were much flatter than I'm used to. I used a green Clementine's Organic Silk Pillowcase so it wouldn't be mistaken for hospital bedding and accidentally get sent to the laundry. My silk eye mask helped me stay asleep despite nurses coming in and out all night. I also packed a 100% cotton blanket, which was cozier than the hospital bedding and now lives on my nursing chair for late-night feeds.

A pared-down version of my touch-up kit helped me look alive for the newborn photoshoot. Calpak's Fit Hanging Dopp Kit held my shower essentials, plus a Tarte Concealer to blur my new-mom-under-eye bags (I packed mascara and a blush stick, too, but that was more than I cared to do in the moment). A Hair Tools Bag held my Dyson Supersonic Travel Hairdryer and a round brush for a quick pre-shoot blow-dry.

I didn't end up using a few items I thought I would need. Luckily, I had a spare tote to bring home everything the hospital gave us.

I was expecting to need layers for the notoriously chilly hospital air conditioning, so I brought long pajama pants and a cardigan. After giving birth, though, I was perpetually hot and dealing with night sweats, so the extra layers remained untouched.

I mostly lived in Quince's Essentials Hospital Set and even wore the robe for photos. Quince's Bamboo Jersey Maternity Short Sleeve Pajama Set was also great for the postpartum transition. If I packed again, I'd bring far fewer clothes and stick to loose, easy-to-change pieces that work for nursing and skin-to-skin contact.

Hospitals typically provide many practical postpartum and newborn supplies. I was given disposable underwear, maxi pads, witch hazel pads, lidocaine spray, and a peri bottle. For my baby, I was given diapers, pacifiers, swaddles, and some other basics made available throughout our stay. They also provided a breast pump and meals. Policies and supplies vary, so ask your labor and delivery unit what it provides before you pack your hospital bag.

We were encouraged to take home all the supplies they allocated for us. The spare foldable tote I packed came in handy for rounding up leftover postpartum supplies, diapers, and other items from our room. My Lands' End bag is discontinued, but the Lightweight Packable Tote from L.L. Bean is a similar design that also folds into a neat pouch.

The bottom line

Most hospitals' maternity wards provide new parents with baby caretaking essentials. I suggest packing yourself a few little luxuries to make your space feel more comfortable.

Ask your hospital what it provides ahead of time, then pare down the basics accordingly. And don't stress too much about forgetting something — aside from my baby's going-home outfit, every true necessity was thought of for me.

• Vinod Khosla bashed Factory AI, a startup that his VC firm has invested in.
• Khosla's comments about Factory drew backlash from some founders and tech VCs.
• Khosla Ventures is an investor in two software development startups that are feuding.

In Silicon Valley, investing in competitors is increasingly standard practice. Publicly trashing one of them is not.

Vinod Khosla, the founder of Khosla Ventures, sparked a wave of criticism on Wednesday after publicly taking sides in a spat between Factory AI and Cognition — two rival AI coding startups — even though his firm has invested in both of them.

Khosla sided emphatically with Cognition, calling Factory a “struggling second tier competitor” and accusing its founder of lying out of "desperation."

Khosla's comments came after Factory CEO Matan Grinberg said the company was terminating Chris Degnan, its board observer and advisor, for "unethical conduct involving Cognition." Degnan said he had resigned before any termination and disputed sharing Factory information with Cognition.

Degnan announced shortly afterward that he was joining Cognition as its chief revenue officer. Cognition CEO Scott Wu denied the company had asked employees to gather information about competitors “under-the-table.”

All of this played out in the very public arena of X, and Khosla's comments were met with disagreement from startup founders and investors.

"If they are struggling second-tier losers, why did you just invest in them a few weeks ago at a multi-billion dollar valuation?" wrote Palmer Luckey, the cofounder of defense technology company Anduril, in a Thursday reply on X.

Khosla Ventures was a key investor in Factory's $200 million funding round that it announced last month.

Khosla Ventures did not respond to a request for comment.

Spenser Skates, the CEO of product analytics company Amplitude, wrote that it was “another great reason not to raise from Vinod." He called Khosla “one of the biggest bullies of founders in the VC ecosystem” and added that the investor was doing so to “one of his own portfolio companies no less.”

Khosla Ventures' managing director, Keith Rabois, appeared to take the side of Factory AI.

"To even sit for an interview while having access to board-level information and without resigning is absolutely insane," Rabois wrote on X.

Nathan Lands, an entrepreneur and angel investor in Factory, said Khosla had “clearly crossed a line,” adding that founders should not let VCs tell them that conflicts of interest do not matter.

The spat and Khosla's comments also opened the meme floodgates.

Olivia Moore, a partner at Andreessen Horowitz, joined in with a meme captioned: “VCs ‘adding value.’”

The backlash puts a spotlight on an awkward yet increasingly common practice in the AI boom: venture firms spreading bets across rival startups.

Cognition, the maker of the AI coding agent Devin, is valued at $48 billion after raising more than $2 billion in September. Factory AI, which hit a $5 billion valuation last month, sells AI "Droids" designed to automate work across the software-development process.

At the frontier-lab level, Sequoia Capital and Founders Fund are among the firms that have backed both OpenAI and Anthropic, despite the companies' fierce competition for talent, customers, and computing.

In June, a Wired analysis of PitchBook data found that roughly 90 investors hold stakes in both labs. Salesforce Ventures has also invested in competing AI labs, Cohere and Mistral AI.

• I went to the New York Film Festival premiere of "You Can See Everything."
• The documentary was a shocking and funny look at Elizabeth Holmes' life.
• The festival director swore us to secrecy. But, here's what little I can share without spoiling it.

My row of Alice Tully Hall was filled with reporters scribbling notes about the buzzy new Elizabeth Holmes documentary. Then, we heard the warning.

"In the interest of trying to preserve a relatively spoiler-free experience for later audiences, we ask that you not film and post this conversation," said Dennis Lim, the artistic director of New York Film Festival.

Lim recommended shaming anyone who recorded the chat between Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim, the directors of "You Can See Everything." A flock of journalists put their phones away, disappointedly.

The filmmakers had reason to worry: "You Can See Everything" was one of the most shocking, revelatory, and oddly funny films I've ever seen. It was twisty and worthy of seeing with fresh eyes. So, I'm not going to spoil it for you. Lim wouldn't want me to.

Here's my veiled, semi-secretive attempt to tell you what I saw.

The anticipation was palpable

The line wrapped around the block. One woman, with her marker-written sign, begged for just one ticket by the security scanners.

It's no surprise that the New York premiere was a hot ticket. "You Can See Everything" is about the story of Elizabeth Holmes, the founder of blood-testing startup Theranos, who was convicted of defrauding investors of hundreds of millions of dollars. Her case became a media sensation, spawning books and a Hulu series.

Fielder himself is a pull, with his alt-comedy shows like "Nathan for You" and "The Rehearsal." Oppenheim is in the news of late for his eerie take on the Chris Hansen story, "Primetime."

But, in the lobby of the theater, Holmes was all I heard about. She's still the fraudster of our public imagination, spurring endless questions. (Holmes maintains that she's innocent throughout the film.)

The crowd and I eventually filed into the theater. There were lots of journalists, lots of creative types, lots of people involved in the film. I spotted multiple "Now Playing" caps from Film Forum.

Inside the screening

Fielder and Oppenheim introduced the film, receiving rapturous applause. They kept their words brief — sticking with the whole secrecy thing — before thanking Lim and letting the film run.

And then, we watched the documentary. It was shocking, jutting in new directions every 10 minutes and constantly toying with my expectations. It was also laugh-out-loud funny. And, in the end, it was somewhat moving.

The first half of the movie is about Holmes' days before going to prison. Fielder gets shocking levels of access — hell, he lives in her house at one point — but still seems at a distance. He asks: Is she telling me the truth?

Her pitbull fiancé Billy Evans also gets in Fielder's way. He's a major player, and becomes even more so in the film's unexpected second half.

If you want to learn more, look it up on X. I'm not going to be responsible for spoiling your experience.

The screening ended with a director Q&A. Fielder, a bit groggy after a nearly three-hour screening that started at 8 p.m., explained the film's origins. Holmes approached A24, he said, who looped him in. Oppenheim also walked through the technical choices, like lighting and aspect ratio.

Fielder also reminded us not to spoil the movie. He understood that we had to write about it, but said that we should be careful with what we say.

A surprise outside the theater

I exited the screening on a high. And then, I saw it: the billboard truck.

A massive screen was parked outside the theater's doors, proclaiming: "FREE ELIZABETH HOLMES." Organizers for Just Blood, an organization trying to prove that Holmes' tech was sound, handed out T-shirts.

Flyers papered the ground, asking viewers to "see why Elizabeth Holmes is innocent" by visiting their site.

It was a bit of a circus. Nobody seemed to take them seriously — we had just watched an entire documentary about Holmes and her crimes, after all, and Just Blood does come up — but they did stop to gawk. Many took pictures of the screen.

I headed to the subway, clutching a pin they shared with attendees: "I've seen everything." I did feel like I'd seen everything. I felt like I'd learned something. And now, I'd have to sit on that knowledge until my friends (or you, dear reader) see it in a few weeks.

Trust me, it's worth it.

Correction, October 1, 2026 — This story has been corrected to reflect that Billy Evans is Elizabeth Holmes' fiancé, not husband.

• Student-loan borrowers are receiving a "final notice" to leave the SAVE repayment plan.
• The notice said that borrowers have 30 more days to pick a new plan or be placed in the most expensive option.
• Borrowers have expressed confusion with the notices and conflicting deadlines.

The confusion grows for student-loan borrowers transitioning off a key repayment plan.

The deadline for the first wave of borrowers to leave SAVE, a Biden-era income-driven repayment plan, was September 29. However, some borrowers who didn't pick a new plan within their 90-day window might have more time.

A Department of Education spokesperson confirmed to Business Insider that borrowers who received their initial notice to leave SAVE "on or around July 1" have received a final 30-day notice to pick a new plan and leave on their own terms, and did not specify how many borrowers received the notice.

"This is your FINAL NOTICE," the email, reviewed by Business Insider, said. "If you do not take immediate action to select a repayment plan, we will place you into a repayment plan in 30 days."

The email added that borrowers currently enrolled in SAVE will be placed on the standard or tiered repayment plan — the most expensive options — if they do not select a new one before the 30-day period ends.

The department has not publicly announced an extension of the 90-day timeframe borrowers have received.

After the Trump administration eliminated SAVE, student-loan servicers began sending notices to borrowers, effective July 1, informing them of a 90-day timeframe to switch to a new plan. Borrowers who received the latest "final notice" expressed confusion, with some saying they had already selected a new plan or are seeing conflicting deadlines on their online portal.

It follows a range of confusing communications that borrowers have received since Trump's repayment overhaul took effect on July 1, including new repayment plans. Borrowers have reported incorrect monthly bills, erroneous notices on their account statuses, and difficulty getting clear information from customer service.

Borrowers have said those mistakes have made it challenging to budget their finances, and they're concerned about falling behind on payments and facing the consequences of default, which include wage garnishment and the seizure of federal benefits.

Notices to transition off SAVE have been issued in waves, and it's unclear whether every borrower will receive a 30-day final notice after their 90-day deadline.

The department also recently extended the deadline to enroll in autopay to the end of December, allowing borrowers more time to receive a one-percentage-point interest rate reduction.

Have a story to share about student loans? Contact this reporter at asheffey@businessinsider.com.

• I struggled to find a new job after I was laid off in 2023.
• After months of trying, I decided to leave NYC and move in with my parents.
• Being unemployed gave me time to heal and rethink what success now means to me.

New York City is expensive, even when you're employed. If you happen to be job hunting, that expense hits even harder.

In 2024, about a year after I was laid off, I was facing a difficult decision: Should I stay in NYC, drain the rest of my savings, and hope to land a job soon? Or should I, an adult in my 30's, just call it and move back in with my parents in the New England suburbs?

My pride reared up against leaving. It felt like an admission of defeat and giving up a part of myself. After all, who was I if not an anxious, depressed, and unhealthy corporate worker?

In the end, with no work leads, I couldn't justify the cost of staying and spinning my wheels. So in January 2025, I left the big city behind me, tail firmly tucked between my legs, and moved back home.

Success is about how you sell it

After the layoff, I began to see how my mental health had suffered during my tenure at my old job. Putting aside anxiety, bouts of hives, and the unhealthy habits I'd developed, the most significant loss was my confidence. Without it, I was floundering.

At the suggestion of loved ones, I started working with a career coach, who sat with me as I struggled to articulate what I actually wanted to accomplish in my life.

My coach encouraged me to focus on defining success in terms of what would actually make me happier and more fulfilled. I knew I didn't want to return to my old job, but I still couldn't kick the impulse to chase that kind of paycheck and job title, and the respect I thought it would earn me.

Progress took time

With the benefit of career coaching, I had hoped my luck would turn quickly once I moved back home. But it took another five months for me to land a role. It was part time at a non-profit, without benefits or substantial pay, but I couldn't afford to turn it down.

As a newly minted operations manager, I joined a small team and got to work on creating organizational systems, untangling billing issues, and handling day-to-day tasks. As my little victories stacked up, I could feel my confidence slowly building again.

Sure, I was still living at home, I still didn't have a full-time job, but I was realizing that I have a special ability to wade into chaos and get things done. In fact, I'm pretty good at it. I just needed the reminder that I could do it.

I started directing this drive toward aspects of my life beyond work. I got serious about my health and lost 40 pounds, I wrote a rough draft of a book, started dating again, and even planned a short trip to Ireland for my 35th birthday.

I still have less than I did before I got laid off, but my life feels so much fuller now.

My choices paid off

It's been almost two years since I moved back home, and I just recently found the right full-time job for me, after turning down a few other opportunities that were too similar to my previous job.

I'll be honest, if I knew how long this road was going to be when I got laid off, I might not have gotten out of bed. Today, I'm grateful that I couldn't afford to be too proud to.

Who knows, maybe one day I'll even be able to move out of my parents' house.

• Yelp ranked the best new restaurants in the country based on customer reviews.
• The list shows that diners are embracing steakhouses, Indian restaurants, and buzzy brunch spots.
• A jungle-inspired Tempe lounge and a Chinese American prix-fixe restaurant took the top two spots.

America's most exciting new restaurants aren't just opening in New York, Los Angeles, or Miami — they're opening nationwide.

A Yelp ranking of the best new restaurants in the US shows diners are gravitating toward big, experience-driven meals, from trendy steakhouses and Indian restaurants to lavish brunches and live-fire cooking.

To make the list, Yelp ranked 25 of the country's best new full-service restaurants based on a few key factors, including review volume and individual ratings from diners.

To be eligible, restaurants had to open after January 1, 2025, and have a passing health score. Yelp also reviewed data through June 11, 2026, to ensure reviews remained positive well after the business first opened.

The list, released Tuesday, featured Filthy Animal, a jungle-themed restaurant in Tempe, Arizona, at the top, as well as two buzzy New York City openings (Mexican restaurant Limusina and London import Ambassadors Clubhouse) and Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes' new steakhouse, 1587 Prime, in Kansas City, Missouri.

Here are the 25 best new restaurants in the country, according to Yelp.

25. The Chapman in Winter Park, Florida

What to order: Crab cake, crispy bang bang lion's mane, ahi tuna steak

What customers say: "Beautiful atmosphere, perfectly crafted cocktails, and a table full of delicious dishes — but those crab cakes absolutely stole the show: flavorful, perfectly seasoned, and worth coming back for all on their own. From the first bite to cocktails and dessert, this was the kind of dinner you don't rush. Definitely adding The Chapman to my favorites," wrote Yelp user Regina M.

Learn more about The Chapman here.

24. Palm Palm in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

What to order: Grilled cheese and tomato soup dumplings, lobster rolls, BBQ short ribs

What customers say: "From the moment we walked in, the vibe was on point, super hip, cool energy, and just the right balance of upscale without being stuffy. Food-wise? No misses. I went with the Prime Filet, which was spot-on: excellent cut, perfectly cooked. We also shared the Wagyu Meatballs, and honestly, those alone are worth coming back for! This is the kind of restaurant you recommend without hesitation and keep in your regular rotation," wrote Yelp user Craig S.

Learn more about Palm Palm here.

23. Gianni & Mac's Ristorante in Marietta, Georgia

What to order: Cacio e pepe, charcuterie, cheese wheel pasta

What customers say: "Highlights (aka what you should immediately order)… Appetizer: The arancini — run, don't walk. And please, for the love of carbs, dunk that warm bread in the sauce. You're welcome. Mains: Chicken Parm that could start a fan club, Marsala that made us emotional, Penne Vodka that brought joy to our souls, and Branzino that was fancy and flaky. Dessert: The tiramisu? Let's just say it's not 'to die for.' It's 'to fake your own death and come back for seconds' good," wrote Yelp Elite user Mollisa S.

Learn more about Gianni & Mac's Ristorante here.

22. Fish Shop in Washington, DC

What to order: Maryland crab frittata, smoked trout crumpets, crispy fried squash blossoms

What customers say: "One of our fave dishes was the Tilefish Kinilaw, a ceviche-adjacent blend of chopped light white [tilefish] and red onion, blended in coconut broth. It was served with lettuce cups, an interesting vessel for the fish-yumminess. The entrée (we shared) was the Massaman Curry with fresh herbs, house-made grilled roti, and an interesting naan-like bread that proved a great vessel for scooping up the decadent curry gravy," wrote Yelp user Trish T.

Learn more about Fish Shop here.

21. The Farmhouse Tuscan in Alexandria, Virginia

What to order: Deviled eggs, short rib pizza, bruschetta

What customers say: "The ambiance was cozy perfection. I chose the crab a la vodka with handmade pasta and ordered an Italian white wine flight. It's been many years since a restaurant has highly impressed me as much as this restaurant has. Out of all the restaurants we went to in Alexandria, this is the restaurant I would choose to visit again for special occasions, entertaining guests, and date nights," wrote Yelp user Ophelia B.

Learn more about The Farmhouse Tuscan here.

20. The Crunkleton in Raleigh, North Carolina

What to order: Beignets, Tomahawk steak, chicken piccata

What customers say: "This place is absolutely gorgeous, and the flavor on everything was top tier! Do not play with that Tomahawk if you do not have a big appetite or room to share. You can easily split that thing between three greedy people or four sane folks. The macaroni tastes like someone's Southern granny made it, and the Broccolini is seasoned to perfection. Great place for a date night or time with family and friends," wrote Yelp user Chinyere U.

Learn more about The Crunkleton here.

19. Lucia in Los Angeles

What to order: Wagyu beef patties, coconut fried chicken, Trini mac pie

What customers say: "We enjoyed a uniquely prepared catfish-and-grits entrée, as well as the cornbread gnudi, amazing callaloo and polenta sides, wagyu and aloo patties, the Jamaican Bun, Caesar salad, and a gorgeous Guyanese chow mein. It's rare to experience a dynamic meal, with equally wonderful service, all while basking in a beautifully designed space with a soundscape (a fabulous live DJ) that seemed curated to a tee! You have something special there, Lucia," wrote Yelp user Patrice E.

Learn more about Lucia here.

18. Johin'na in Birmingham, Alabama

What to order: Short ribs, bao buns, kimchi fried rice

What customers say: "Chef Amber suggested the Ecchi martini with tequila, and it was the perfect cocktail. We started things off sharing the Crispy Brussels Sprouts and Collard Green Gyoza, which was a pleasant surprise and my fave. We ordered the Peach-Glazed Salmon Teriyaki, Short Ribs, and I had the Hot Stone Miso Cod. My only complaint is I wanted more," wrote Yelp Elite user Jessica J.

Learn more about Johin'na here.

17. Lobby Bar in Washington, DC

What to order: Chicken nuggets and caviar, Caesar salad, smash burger

What customers say: "They do something I love, and that's making simple food even better. Traditional items like pigs in a blanket are elevated using wagyu hot dogs; homemade chicken nuggets are elevated with caviar; and cauliflower is taken to the next level with a delicious buffalo/truffle sauce. The cocktail program is second to none. You will definitely find me here again," wrote Yelp Elite user Ryan S.

Learn more about Lobby Bar here.

16. Ah Ma's Kitchen in San Francisco

What to order: Kiln chicken, chow mein, chicken wings

What customers say: "This place is going viral right now for their XXXL Boba Milk Tea and Pineapple Bun Sandwich, but personally, my favorites were the Stir-Fried Black Pepper Beef Macaroni and Salted Egg Yolk Green Beans. Cooked perfectly. So flavorful and delicious! The tableside hand-torn Kiln Chicken was really flavorful and saucy. I will definitely recommend this to friends and dine here again," wrote Yelp user Alisa B.

Learn more about Ah Ma's Kitchen here.

15. Piedra in Indianapolis

What to order: Lamb chops, carne asada, enchiladas

What customers say: "The ambiance wowed me even more than expected: The moody lighting, live DJ, and gorgeous interior made it feel like we were on vacation. I enjoyed my enchiladas with four different meats/fillings, which were well executed and hit the spot. The real star of the meal was the pork shank — the mole was truly amazing. It will be the favorite dish we come back to order again and again," wrote Yelp user Rachel S.

Learn more about Piedra here.

14. Society Swan in Scottsdale, Arizona

What to order: Truffled Brie baguette, Maine lobster roll, steak frites

What customers say: "We started with the French onion soup, which was among the best we have ever had. I enjoyed the baked paccheri pasta, which was incredibly filling and delightful — a texture dream. We finished with the toffee pudding… I was shocked by how great it is. Our service was great and so were our drinks! The ambiance was extremely romantic," wrote Yelp user Brooke F.

Learn more about Society Swan here.

13. Oh London in Creve Coeur, Missouri

What to order: Bangers and mash, chicken tikka masala, salmon bruschetta

What customers say: "We are frequent diners at Oh London, and there's a good reason we keep coming back. The Chicken Tikka was truly to die for — perfectly seasoned, tender, and bursting with flavor. The homemade chips were addictive, and the Caesar salad was so good you couldn't stop eating it. Every dish shows just how top-notch the chef is," wrote Yelp user Tiffany E.

Learn more about Oh London here.

12. Agnes and Sherman in Houston

What to order: Scallion waffle, rangoon, cheeseburger fried rice

What customers say: "What a unique (and delicious) concept, set in an aesthetically retro and fun space. Every dish is such a great fusion of culture and flavors — but in particular, the scallion waffle, Rangoon, chilled cucumber, and Egg Foo Young blew me away. Without a doubt, the best 'diner' food I've ever had. Nick Wong and team, you've done something really special here," wrote Yelp Elite Eleni K.

Learn more about Agnes and Sherman here.

11. Toro Bravo in Reno, Nevada

What to order: Short rib tacos, creamy cilantro rice, papas bravas

What customers say: "We hit up Toro Bravo for our anniversary dinner, and what a dinner it was. The hamachi ceviche had just the right amount of kick. My stars, though — the ribeye special and octopus, with tortillas on the side, were heaven. To finish everything off, we had a delicious Basque cheesecake," wrote Yelp Elite Angel D.

Learn more about Toro Bravo here.

10. Ambassadors Clubhouse in New York

What to order: Butter chicken, chicken chops, beetroot raj kachori chaat

What customers say: "From the energetic Punjabi music to the richly spiced food, there's an unmistakable sense of indulgence running through the experience. The food is incredible. This is not a place to rush through dinner. Among the standouts were the Original BBQ Butter Chicken Chops, Chili Cheese Pakode, and Ajwaini Wild Jheenga, all of which brought something distinctive to the table," wrote Yelp user Udit A.

Learn more about Ambassadors Clubhouse here.

9. Dorothy's Downtown in Jacksonville, Florida

What to order: Short rib, crab cakes, beignets

What customers say: "I first visited Dorothy's a month or two after they opened, and I've been hooked ever since. The food is absolutely packed with flavor and consistently delicious. My standout favorites? Definitely the Fried Chicken, Gumbo, and the Bayou Pasta. I could honestly eat them weekly and never get tired of them. The beignets were another hit," wrote Yelp user Lotsy S.

Learn more about Dorothy's Downtown here.

8. Mezcla in Columbus, Ohio

What to order: Fish tacos, scallop tostada, chile relleno

What customers say: "They take all the expected flavors, toss them up in the air, and serve them back to you in the most interesting and unique ways. The scallop taco was served cold with a mild, delicious mole. So crispy — easy to break into pieces and share. The tacos dorados were more like flautas, filled with seasoned creamy potatoes and sprinkled with nuts. A beautiful room to enjoy great food," wrote Yelp user Jeffrey R.

Learn more about Mezcla here.

7. Bar Boheme in Las Vegas

What to order: French onion soup, Bœuf bourguignon, chicken liver pate

What customers say: "From the chic but comfortable decor to the attentive customer service, this place was a hit for us! Celebrating a birthday, it definitely felt elevated and special. The kitchen executed each dish perfectly. Big highlight was the French onion soup, and thank you for having beef tallow fries on the menu — the flavor makes a difference. I highly recommend this place," wrote Yelp user Corine M.

Learn more about Bar Boheme here.

6. 1587 Prime in Kansas City, Missouri

What to order: Crab cakes, lobster rolls, steak frites

What customers say: "As huge Chiefs fans, we were excited to experience it — and every detail, from the seating and service to the incredible ambiance, was top-notch. The petite 6-ounce filets, both with and without the shrimp topping, were cooked to perfection and full of flavor. The wine list was exceptional. The jazzy, bluesy music created the perfect atmosphere," wrote Yelp user JoAnn R.

Learn more about 1587 Prime here.

5. Lilo in Carlsbad, California

What to order: Kaluga caviar, big eye tuna, Miyazaki wagyu

What customers say: "Each dish was a whimsical work of art and tasted so fresh and delicious. It's amazing how the chefs are able to pair flavors that work so well together. The attention to detail was exquisite. Definitely make this a destination meal if you want a magical experience," wrote Yelp user Connie Y.

Learn more about Lilo here.

4. Eylan in Menlo Park, California

What to order: Taro root chaat, chilled green grape chaas, king trumpet mushroom

What customers say: "The Sigri Kabab and Taro Root Chaat were phenomenal appetizers — bursting with flavor and beautifully executed. For the main course, we ordered the Roasted Cornish Hen with paneer kulcha, Hispi cabbage with rumali roti, and the yakhni pulao. Every dish was delicious, thoughtfully plated, and deeply satisfying," wrote Yelp user Vandy B.

Learn more about Eylan here.

3. Limusina in New York

What to order: Red snapper aguachile, short rib quesabirria, elote

What customers say: "The ambiance is warm and lively without being overwhelming. Limusina's menu is all about Mexican classics with a creative twist, from upscale ceviches and aguachiles to playful small plates like truffle machete quesadillas, pork belly chicharrón, and over-the-top elote brûlée. Every item we ordered was better than the last, and you can really taste how much attention they put into balancing bold flavors and textures," wrote Yelp user Taylor B.

Learn more about Limusina here.

2. Firstborn in Los Angeles

What to order: Fried chicken, duck sausage, barbecue cabbage

What customers say: "The food was absolutely amazing from start to finish. The highlights were the celery root blini with crème fraîche and Ossetra caviar, trout tartare, duck sausage, and grilled short ribs. And a special shoutout to the fried boneless chicken leg — it was delicious! My partner ordered the non-alcoholic Hojicha Orange Milk Punch, which was phenomenal," wrote Yelp user Alex H.

Learn more about Firstborn here.

1. Filthy Animal in Tempe, Arizona

What to order: Pibil dumplings, glazed pork chops, lamb chops

What customers say: "Phenomenal dining experience! We tried multiple appetizers, and the grilled oysters were the best-tasting we have ever had (so good that we had to order another round). For my main course, I opted for the ribeye, which was nicely seasoned and cooked to a perfect medium-rare. The milk bread was shockingly good… this was the first time I've ever had tomato butter, but definitely won't be my last," wrote Yelp user Andrew C.

Learn more about Filthy Animal here.

• Bob Chapek says he shouldn't have taken the Disney CEO job and that he "fell victim" to a plot by Bob Iger.
• Chapek backs current top exec Josh D'Amaro, saying his promotion was "appropriate."
• Chapek offered D'Amaro advice, including avoiding the culture wars.

Bob Chapek says if he could go back in time, he'd have a simple answer to being offered the role of Disney CEO: "No."

Chapek's short, turbulent time in the top job was marked by his clash with Bob Iger, his predecessor-turned-successor. Chapek said he felt like he'd been left with a "tattoo of a legacy" of Iger, who was Disney's top exec from 2005 until Chapek took over in February 2020, and served again from November 2022 to March of this year.

"I feel that's tremendously unfair, not only given the circumstances upon which I took the job, but the fact that the board had a very quick trigger — and frankly, sided with a guy who wanted his job back," Chapek said in an interview with Business Insider.

Nearly four years after Chapek's firing, he has set out to rehabilitate his reputation with a new book detailing his rise inside the Mouse House and his dramatic departure from Disney. The book's rollout has involved a whole lot of Iger bashing and far less soul-searching from Chapek.

Under Chapek, Disney had PR stumbles, including fights with star actor Scarlett Johansson and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. Wall Street was initially pleased with Chapek, and the stock more than doubled in less than a year, soaring from its pandemic low of $79 to $197 in March 2021. Disney+ grew to over 150 million subscribers in under three years. Riding high, Chapek set an ambitious goal: 230 million to 260 million subscribers by the end of 2024.

Shares tumbled back to pandemic lows, however, after Disney's streaming business lost nearly $1.5 billion in a single quarter. In late 2022, Disney's board dismissed Chapek and reinstated Iger as CEO.

Chapek's take: He "fell victim" to a plot by his former boss to undermine him from the start.

Representatives for Disney, where Iger is a board member, didn't respond to requests for comment.

Iger hasn't publicly responded to Chapek's recent criticisms, though he said in a Harvard Business Review interview published last week that when Disney chose Chapek as his successor, the search "wasn't as thorough as we thought." Disney "thought we knew the person extremely well," Iger said, adding that leadership "needs to be capable of managing an environment in perpetual crisis."

Iger has previously referred to Disney's Chapek era as "a period of considerable challenges and disruption."

Chapek had kind words for current Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro, who took over in March, saying he "was appropriate to be promoted to CEO." Chapek then quickly noted that he'd promoted D'Amaro "myself about a half dozen times." Like Chapek, D'Amaro ran Disney's lucrative Experiences division before taking the top job.

Chapek didn't opine on Disney's waves of layoffs — three so far under D'Amaro — other than to say that "it's interesting that all these tough calls are being made after Bob left," referring to Iger.

D'Amaro must "develop a healthy, vibrant, long-term growth vehicle" to jump-start Disney's stock, Chapek said, though he didn't get into specifics on what that could be.

"If you don't have a long-term commitment to a growth vehicle, then you're going to have a bunch of mature businesses that aren't growing, and the stock's going to become stuck," Chapek said. Disney shares have lagged US stocks broadly, rising about 13% in the last 10 years while the S&P 500 has soared 255%.

Disney has driven revenue growth by regularly hiking prices for its parks and streaming services. The price of Disney+ has now risen for six straight years. Chapek attributed that to increased content production costs and said the streamer was initially underpriced.

"When Disney+ came out, it was offered at a very, very low introductory price," Chapek said. "It was a price that was not sustainable for the long term."

Other major streamers have also consistently raised prices.

Chapek says political advocacy is 'where the danger starts'

Chapek's top piece of advice for D'Amaro was to avoid cultural land mines.

"Disney has to be very careful in picking something that takes a side," Chapek said, adding that "the danger starts" when Disney gets into advocacy or aligns itself with political groups.

Chapek said he saw this danger firsthand after Disney initially didn't speak out against Florida's so-called "Don't Say Gay" bill, and drew criticism from progressives and Iger himself. Disney then reversed course, apologizing for its earlier statement and offering $5 million to LGBTQ+ advocacy groups — angering some conservatives who decried Disney as "woke."

At the time, Chapek said Disney was "reassessing our approach to advocacy, including political giving in Florida and beyond."

"My first inclination was the right inclination, that you make sure that you respect everybody regardless of where they are on the political spectrum or whatever their social beliefs are, but you avoid advocacy for one group versus another," Chapek told Business Insider in our recent interview.

"Every time a political controversy has really opened up, it's largely because they move on from a position of neutrality," Chapek said.

For his part, Iger also looked to move Disney away from advocacy, saying in early 2024 that Disney must "entertain, first and foremost" rather than "advance any kind of agenda." Creators "lost sight" of this mandate in prior years, Iger said.

During Trump's second term, Disney has shifted away from some DEI terminology in its annual report and introduced a "Global Belonging Week" with more politically neutral language.

Chapek's dovish political approach isn't a playbook for what happens when government agencies like the FCC take aim at Disney, though. The FCC is reviewing broadcast licenses for Disney-owned ABC stations, citing an investigation into the company's DEI practices. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who was appointed by Trump, announced the review a day after Trump said ABC late-night host Jimmy Kimmel should be fired for a joke about Melania Trump.

D'Amaro has taken a bolder approach than Iger or Chapek by suing the FCC, alleging it is trying to control ABC's content and accusing it of "blatant retaliation" following Kimmel's remarks. The FCC reiterated its statement that the review is about DEI practices and said that "Disney is obviously very concerned about the FCC's proceeding." The lawsuit is pending, with a hearing set for October 6.

While Chapek said he would "support Josh in whatever decision he believes is right," he declined to comment on the legal strategy against the FCC.

"I will not do to Josh what Iger did to me," Chapek said, referring to Iger publicly commenting on his moves.

• OpenAI said it has "parted ways" with three employees.
• The company said the individuals violated policies "on accessing and handling sensitive company information."
• OpenAI has been under intense pressure since the company disclosed its AI agents breached Hugging Face.

OpenAI says it has parted ways with three researchers, who the company said violated its policies for sharing sensitive information.

"We have parted ways with three individuals for violating our policies on accessing and handling sensitive company information," an OpenAI spokesperson said in a statement. "Our investigation confirmed that these individuals mishandled sensitive information outside established company procedures, violating our policies and breaking the trust essential to our work."

The Wall Street Journal reported that the employees in question allegedly shared "confidential company information with a third-party AI-safety organization." An OpenAI spokesperson did not respond to a question about the nature of the information sharing.

OpenAI has faced pressure both internally and externally over its handling of AI-related safety issues, following its disclosure that rogue agents hacked into Hugging Face after breaching a secure testing environment that was not supposed to allow for internet access.

The company recently said it supported independent assessments of safety cases, an idea that has gained increasing support across the industry.

"OpenAI is committed to supporting independent assessments with deep levels of access across training, evaluation, and deployment," the company said in a post last month. "That access should enable assessors to challenge our assumptions, identify risks we may have missed, and reach their own conclusions about the effectiveness of our safeguards."

This is developing.

• I worked at Spirit Halloween for three years and saw many customers make the same mistakes.
• I always encouraged shoppers to invest in high-quality pieces they can reuse year after year. 
• Many customers forgot to check Halloween makeup for irritants and allergens. 

Halloween has always been more of a lifestyle than a holiday for me, much to the chagrin of my husband and family.

Although I worked at Spirit Halloween — the seasonal chain known for taking over empty storefronts — for three years, I've been a longtime customer and have even joked that the store was created just for me.

Here are nine mistakes I saw customers make while shopping for their costumes and seasonal decor at the popular Halloween chain.

Only coming into the store once per season

One of the biggest mistakes I saw customers make was only visiting once per year. The stores get truckloads of new merchandise delivered weekly, so chances are you'll find something new every time you stop by.

I also recommend asking an associate on the sales floor when the next delivery will be. I was always happy to help customers find the latest products.

Not browsing the entire store

When shopping for accessories to complete your look, keep your eyes open and peruse the entire store because hidden gems are everywhere.

The checkout line, in particular, is always full of the best selection of chokers, earrings, and other fun novelty items.

Going straight for the lowest price instead of investing in quality pieces

If you only plan to wear a costume once, it's fine to go for the cheap stuff. But investing a little more can extend the costume's wear.

Spirit Halloween offers a line of Signature Collection costumes, which cost more but are made with higher-quality fabrics. I've found these pieces can last through several years of Halloween events or cosplay fun.

And, in my opinion, investing in great accessories to complete the look is just as important. For example, if you're dressing up as a vampire, fangs can add an extra layer to the costume. However, a cheap pair probably won't last the night.

My personal favorite is the Scarecrow brand of fangs because they come in different sizes for a more custom fit.

Buying makeup kits without proper application and removal products

Makeup can really elevate a costume's look, but let's face it, most Halloween-store makeup isn't top quality. I recommend protecting both your skin and your look by investing in quality products like primer, setting powder, and heavy-duty setting spray.

If you're using prosthetics, be sure to purchase Spirit Gum adhesive and remover. Without it, removing prosthetics can be difficult. And you definitely don't want to join that next-day Zoom meeting still dressed as Hellboy.

Failing to check makeup and prosthetics for irritants

Always test makeup and adhesives for allergic reactions by using a small amount of the product on the inside of your wrist. Wait at least 20 minutes to see how your skin reacts.

Before purchasing any products, read the package carefully and search for any irritants or allergens.

Not signing up for email and text offers

Most people are tired of receiving email and text offers, but I think Spirit Halloween's are worth it. By signing up, you'll get a 20% off coupon to use during your next visit.

You'll also receive exclusive emails throughout the year about new props and displays, and notifications when stores near you are opening or hiring.

Not reading the labels on animatronics

When purchasing animatronics, always make sure you read the box before making a purchase.

A lot of the animatronics are made for outdoor, covered use only. That means that they can break down from exposure to weather (especially humidity that can mess with the electronics) if left outdoors unprotected.

Returning items before calling support

Most people don't realize that Spirit Halloween has its own tech support hotline. Before returning any electronics to the store, call the Zombie Tech Squad (their number is displayed on all prop directions).

Most times, they can troubleshoot your issue and save you a trip back to the store, which can be super helpful during the busy Halloween season.

Forgetting that we stay open after Halloween

Don't skip out on the clearance sales on November 1 and 2.

A few years ago, my store was still putting out new stock until closing on October 31. All of that merchandise is typically discounted by 25% to 50% the next day.

This story was originally published on October 12, 2023, and most recently updated on October 1, 2026.

When it comes to mobile service, it doesn't get simpler than an MVNO like Visible. The Verizon-backed service is easy to sign up for, with monthly fees not unlike those of a streaming service or a gym membership. It's already affordable, but with a good Visible deal, you can save even more.

The best promos from Visible right now include $5 off every month for your first five years using promo code 5OFF5 and exclusive iPhone 18 Pro offers. Sales aren't uncommon from the MVNO; however, new phone bundle discounts are. Learn how to save now and make signing up easier than ever.

Are you not sure which Visible plan to choose? You have three to choose from: Visible, Visible Plus, and Visible Pro Plus, with the latter two included in the ongoing sale. All of them offer unlimited data of varying speeds, plus mobile hot spot functionality, select international calling, and more.

Best deals on Visible phone plans

Perfect for long-term customers looking to commit to a new provider, Visible is taking $5 off Visible Plus and Visible Plus Pro every month for up to five years. Though not the deepest of price cuts I've seen, it's definitely the longest-lasting to date. Use the code 5OFF5 to score the discount.

Also available now, Visible is giving up to $480 off iPhone 18 Pro and Visible Plus Pro bundles via monthly credits. Here's how it works: buy the device at full price up front and get $480 off your Visible Plus Pro over 24 months.

While it does require you to shell out for the phone right now, it doesn't require an annual payment for your cell plan — only monthly. In the end, that breaks down to $20 off every month, bringing Visible Plus Pro to only $25 a month for unlimited data, hot spot, Global Pass perks, and more.

• Follow our WhatsApp channel and Instagram for more deals and buying guides.

Visible mobile FAQs

Does Visible have a free trial?

Visible offers a free 15-day trial to anyone with a compatible and unlocked smartphone. All you have to do is connect to Wifi and download the Visible app. Once there, you can follow the steps to get a trial phone number that lets you use Visible's unlimited data, talk, text, and hotspot for 15 days. 

You do not need to cancel your current carrier's service to sign up for Visible's free trial. In fact, Visible recommends keeping your service to compare against their own during your free trial.

Visible vs. Visible Plus: What's the difference?

The most significant difference between Visible and Visible Plus is that the latter offers access to Verizon's fastest 5G Ultra Wideband (UW) network, which has faster speeds and better reliability in congested areas. Those benefits only come into play if you can even access them. 5G UW is only available in select markets and requires specific phones. You'll also get broader international calling and texting options, and the "Premium Network Experience" guarantees you full speeds up to 50GB, even during peak traffic hours.

No matter which you pick, both plans offer unlimited everything. That includes talk, text, data, and even a mobile hotspot, a rare concoction for MVNO cell phone service.

How good is Visible phone service?

Our Visible Wireless review found that it offers great overall value for money. The cellular network is top-notch, owing to its piggybacking on Verizon's extensive nationwide 5G network. We like the low monthly prices and the ability to get unlimited data, no matter which plan you're on.

The slow network speeds after exceeding thresholds and experiencing network congestion are annoying, but that's a standard practice most MVNOs use to keep costs down. We also thought Visible's customer support could be better (you only get direct help using its online chat) and would have appreciated even a small discount for having multiple lines.

Is Visible owned by Verizon?

Verizon owns Visible. Unlike T-Mobile's purchases of Metro and Mint Mobile and AT&T's purchase of Cricket Wireless, Verizon built Visible from the ground up. The MVNO launched in 2018 and operates independently under Verizon's supervision.

See more: Visible review | Verizon iPhone 18 Pro deals | Mint Mobile deals | Best unlimited data plans | Best cheap cell plans

• Walmart shoppers can now use the app to activate a flashing light to help locate items on shelves.
• The feature is part of the company's rollout of digital price tags in its US stores.
• While the tags stirred controversy, CEO John Furner pledged there will be no personalized pricing.

If you've ever spent more than five minutes scrutinizing the spice options at the grocery store, Walmart has some exciting news for you.

The retail giant said Thursday that shoppers can now use their mobile app while browsing in-store to activate a flashing light that helps locate items on shelves.

The feature has been available for employees and Spark delivery drivers over the past several months, and is built into the new digital price tags appearing in Walmart's US stores for the past year.

With the Walmart app — and its AI shopping assistant, Sparky — customers can search for the exact item they want and tap a button on the product listing page to activate a little green light in the aisle where they're standing.

Business Insider saw the tech in action during a store tour in April, and a Spark driver said it has helped her fulfill delivery orders faster.

The lights are also used by store employees to more quickly and accurately re-stock shelves, the company said.

This aspect of the digital price tag technology has garnered less attention so far than the question of whether the miniature displays would be used to change prices more dynamically.

Last week, CEO John Furner pledged that the company will never set prices based on the time of day or who's shopping, and that there will be no "personalized price" at Walmart.

Walmart says all maximum display prices are set centrally at its headquarters, while store managers have discretion to offer certain discounts to remain competitive in their markets.