#cio consulting

[jcmarchi]

Leighton Welch, CTO and Co-Founder of Tracer – Interview Series

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/leighton-welch-cto-and-co-founder-of-tracer-interview-series/

Leighton Welch, CTO and Co-Founder of Tracer – Interview Series

Leighton Welch is CTO and co-founder of Tracer. Tracer is an AI-powered tool that organizes, manages, and visualizes complex data sets to drive faster, more actionable business intelligence. Prior to becoming the Chief Technology Officer at Tracer, Leighton was the Director of Consumer Insights at SocialCode, and the VP of Engineering at VaynerMedia. He has spent his career pioneering in the ad tech ecosystem, running the first ever Snapchat Ad and consulting on commercial APIs for some of the world’s biggest platforms. Leighton graduated from Harvard in 2013, with a degree in Computer Science and Economics.

Can you tell us more about your background and how your experiences at Harvard, SocialCode, and VaynerMedia inspired you to co-found Tracer?

The original idea came a decade ago. A childhood friend of mine rang me on a Friday night. He was struggling with aggregating data across various social platforms for one of his clients. He figured this could be automated, so he enlisted my help since I had a background in software engineering. That’s how I was first introduced to my now co-founder, Jeff Nicholson.

This was our light bulb moment: The quantity of money being spent on these campaigns was far outpacing the quality of the software tracking those dollars. It was a nascent market with a ton of applications in data science.

We kept building analytics software that could meet the needs of increasingly large and complex media campaigns. As we hacked away at the problem, we developed a process – clear steps from getting the disparate data ingested and contextualized. We realized the process we were building could be applied to any data set – not just advertising – and that’s what Tracer is today: an AI-powered tool that organizes, manages, and visualizes complex data sets to drive faster, more actionable business intelligence.

We’re helping to democratize what it means to be a “data-driven” organization by automating the steps needed to ingest, connect, and organize disparate data sets across functions, providing powerful BI through intuitive reporting and visualizations. This could mean connecting sales data to your marketing CRM, HR analytics to revenue trends, and endless more applications.

Can you explain how Tracer’s platform automates analytics and revolutionizes the modern data stack for its clients?

For simplicity, let’s define analytics as the answering of a business question through software. In today’s landscape, there are really two approaches.

The first is to buy vertical software. For CFOs, this might be Netsuite. For the CRO, it might be Salesforce. Vertical software is great because it’s end-to-end, it can be hyper specialized, and should just work out of the box. The limitation of vertical software is that it’s vertical: if you want Netsuite to talk to Salesforce, you are back to square one. Vertical software is complete, but it’s not flexible.

The second approach is to buy horizontal software. This might be one software for data ingestion, another for storage, and a third for analysis. Horizontal software is great because it can handle pretty much anything. You could certainly ingest, store and analyze both your Salesforce and Netsuite data through this pipeline. The limitation is that it needs to be put together, maintained, and nothing works “out of the box.” Horizontal software is flexible, but it’s not complete.

We offer a third approach by creating a platform that combines the technologies necessary to report on anything, made accessible enough to work out of the box without any engineering resources or technical overhead. It’s flexible and complete. Tracer is the most powerful platform on the market that is both application agnostic, and end-to-end.

Tracer processed on the order of 10 petabytes of data last month. How does Tracer handle such a vast amount of data efficiently?

Scale is incredibly important in our world, and it has always been a priority at Tracer even in the beginning days. To process this volume of data, we leverage a lot of best in class technologies and avoid reinventing the wheel where we don’t need to. We’re incredibly proud of the infrastructure we’ve built, but we’re also quite open about it. In fact, our architecture program is outlined on our website.

What we say to partners is this: It’s not that your in-house engineering teams aren’t capable of building what we’ve built; rather, they shouldn’t have to. We’ve assembled the pieces of the modern data stack for you. The framework is efficient, battle-tested, and modular for us to dynamically evolve with the landscape.

A lot of partners will come to us looking to free up engineering resources to focus on bigger strategic initiatives. They use Tracer’s architecture as a means to an end. Having a database doesn’t answer business questions. Having an ETL pipeline doesn’t answer business questions. The thing that really matters is what you’re able to do with that infrastructure once it’s been put together. That’s why we built Tracer – we’re your shortcut to getting answers.

Why do you believe structured data is critical for AI, and what advantages does it provide over unstructured data?

Structured data is critical for AI because it allows for manual human interaction, which we believe is an essential component to effective outputs. That being said, in today’s ecosystem, we are actually better equipped than ever before to leverage the insights in unstructured data and previously hard to access formats (documents, images, videos, etc.).

So for us, it’s about providing a platform through which additional context can be incorporated from the people who are most familiar with the underlying datasets once that data has been made accessible. In other words, it’s unstructured data → structured data → Tracer’s context engine → AI-driven outputs. We sit in between and allow for a more effective feedback loop, and for manual intervention where necessary.

What challenges do companies face with unstructured data, and how does Tracer help overcome these challenges to improve data quality?

Without a platform like Tracer, the challenge with unstructured data is all about control. You feed data into the model, the model spits out answers, and you have very little opportunity to optimize what’s happening inside the black box.

Say for example you want to determine the most impactful content in a media campaign. Tracer might use AI to help provide metadata on all the content that was run in the ads. It also might use AI to provide last mile analytics for getting from a highly structured dataset to that answer.

But in between, our platform allows users to draw the connections between the media data and the dataset where the outcomes live, more granularly define “impactful,” and clean up the categorizations done by the AI. Essentially, we’ve abstracted and productized the steps, in order to remove the black box. Without AI, there is a lot more work that has to be done by the human in Tracer. But without Tracer, AI can’t get to the same quality of answer.

What are some of the key AI-based technologies Tracer uses to enhance its data intelligence platform?

You can think of Tracer across three core product categories: Sources, Content, and Outputs.

Sources is a tool used to automate the ingestion, monitoring and QA of disparate data.

Context is a drag and drop semantic layer for the organization of data after it’s been ingested.

Outputs is where you can answer business questions on top of contextualized data.

At Tracer we don’t see AI as a replacement for any of these steps; instead, we see AI as another form of tech that all three categories can leverage to expand what can be automated.

For example:

Sources: Leveraging AI to help build new API connectors to long tail data sources not available through our partner catalog.

Context: Leveraging AI to clean up metadata prior to running tag rules. For example, cleaning up variations of publication names in every language.

Outputs: Leveraging AI as a drop-in replacement for dashboards where the business use case is exploratory, rather than a fixed set of KPIs that need to be reported on repeatedly.

AI allows us to achieve these types of applications in ways that are both simple and accessible.

What are Tracer’s plans for future development and innovation in the data intelligence space?

Tracer is an aggregator of aggregators. Our partners will lean on us for specific applications within teams and functions, or for use in cross-functional business intelligence. The beauty of Tracer is that whether you’re leveraging us for making better decisions with your media spend and creative, or building dashboards to link disparate metrics from supply chain to sales and everything in between, the building blocks are consistent.

We’re seeing organizations who formally relied on us within one area of the business (e.g., media and marketing), expand applications to elsewhere in the business. So where our primary customers were formally senior media executives, or agency partners, these days we work across the org, partnering with CIOs, CTOs, data scientists, and business analysts. We’re continuing to build out our tools to accommodate for more and more applications and personas, all while ensuring the core tech is scalable, flexible, and accessible for non-technical users.

Thank you for the great interview, readers who wish to learn more should visit Tracer.

[it-consulting-bay-area]

Maximizing Your Business’s Potential with Expert IT Consulting in the Bay Area

At the heart of the thriving tech industry in the Bay Area, businesses are embracing the pivotal role of the CIO. From startups to industry giants, the demand for expert IT consulting has surged as companies seek strategies to remain competitive in this rapidly evolving landscape. IT consulting has emerged as the cornerstone service that empowers businesses to meticulously craft technology strategies, stay in tune with emerging trends, and optimize IT costs. Within this narrative, we delve into the world of Bay Area IT consulting, uncover its invaluable merits, explore its indispensable role in this domain, and illuminate how partnering with Professional Computer Concepts unlocks limitless potential for businesses in this fiercely innovative sphere.

Deciphering IT Consulting 

IT consulting is akin to a technological compass for businesses. It revolves around furnishing technology-driven advice, services, and solutions. This field is all about aiding clients in fine-tuning technology strategies to harmonize with overarching business goals. The ultimate objective? Helping organizations harness technology effectively to heighten their efficiency, operational prowess, and competitive stance. The array of IT consulting services spans network management, cybersecurity, data analytics, software development, and cloud solutions, among others. These firms join hands with enterprises, assessing tech prerequisites and charting strategic, architectural, operational, and implementation blueprints. Armed with insights into technological trends, best practices, and industry intricacies, IT consultants unearth opportunities for advancement, devising solutions for diverse business realms. IT consulting is a cornerstone in steering firms towards sound technology choices, refining IT infrastructure, and steering digital transformation to realize business aspirations.

The Unique Bay Area Spectrum 

Beyond its technological prowess, the Bay Area boasts a breathtaking natural panorama. It's a nucleus of innovation, being home to iconic corporations such as Google, Apple, Facebook, and Tesla, attracting a global spectrum of talent. Silicon Valley, nestled within the Bay Area, is synonymous with innovation and entrepreneurship, boasting prestigious universities and a culture that fuels innovation.

Diversity thrives in this region, contributing to its vibrant tapestry. Culinary delights, arts, festivals, and neighborhoods reflect this multicultural mélange. The Bay Area reveres inclusivity, nurturing an atmosphere of acceptance.

A history of activism courses through the Bay Area's veins. Residents champion civil rights, environmental conservation, and social justice, etching change into the area's identity.

Entrepreneurship flourishes here, drawing visionaries from around the globe. The Bay Area furnishes an ideal breeding ground for startups, coupling venture capital with mentorship networks and a collaborative milieu.

With its moderate climate, awe-inspiring natural wonders, and cultural kaleidoscope, the Bay Area offers an unparalleled quality of life. This amalgamation of innovation, beauty, diversity, activism, and entrepreneurship defines the region's allure, extending its impact beyond borders.

IT Consulting: Bay Area’s Backbone 

In the throbbing heart of the Bay Area, IT consulting isn't just a service; it's an imperative. Amidst the tech whirlwind, staying aligned with the latest trends is paramount. Customized tech strategies that resonate with the region's pulse are pivotal. IT consultants proficient in the Bay Area's dynamics can help craft strategies that resonate with local trends, carving a niche for businesses in the competitive ecosystem.

IT consulting also acts as a beacon in the ever-evolving tech galaxy. Businesses are bombarded by novel technologies, and staying ahead is no mean feat. Here's where IT consultants shine, aiding businesses in discerning which trends are worth embracing. Their insights serve as a compass through this dynamic terrain.

Cost optimization is another jewel in the IT consulting crown. Through meticulous analysis, consultants unearth inefficiencies, trimming expenses while amplifying value. In the Bay Area's high-octane atmosphere, IT consulting isn't an option—it's a strategic advantage.

Empowering Your Business with Professional Computer Concepts 

Amidst this intricate tapestry, Professional Computer Concepts (PCC) stands as a sentinel of IT consulting. Their mastery spans the realms of strategy, architecture, operations, and implementation. They're not just solution providers; they're partners.

PCC's differentiator lies in their unwavering commitment to forging enduring relationships. Their approach isn't one-size-fits-all; they delve deep, grasping the unique DNA of each client. This understanding translates into tailor-made solutions that mirror each client's needs.

Their commitment goes beyond immediate fixes, laying the foundation for robust, scalable systems. Collaborative support underpins their methodology. They actively engage, ensuring clients are integral to decision-making and solution crafting. PCC's essence is partnership, driving innovation, efficiency, and sustained growth.

Professional Computer Concepts: Your Bridge to Technological Brilliance 

PCC's services span managed services, cybersecurity, virtual CIO, and cloud solutions. Their proactive stance ensures seamless operations, tackling issues before they snowball. In the era of escalating cybersecurity threats, their protection shields businesses from breaches. Their virtual CIO services fuse technology with business strategy, guiding growth.

Cloud solutions pave the path to scalability, flexibility, and cost efficiency. PCC orchestrates seamless cloud integration, balancing innovation and security. As your technology partner, PCC's guidance fuels growth, safeguards operations, and elevates efficiency.

In a realm where agility and innovation rule, PCC stands as your beacon. Their comprehensive suite of services, rooted in deep understanding and collaboration, ensures you're primed for success in the Bay Area's tech labyrinth.

Elevate with PCC: The Bay Area’s Technological Trailblazers 

Professional Computer Concepts (PCC) understands the demanding landscape of the Bay Area's tech industry. It's a realm where success hinges on staying ahead of the curve. PCC stands as a guiding light, partnering with businesses to navigate the intricacies of this dynamic terrain.

PCC's strength lies in crafting tailor-made technology strategies that resonate with Bay Area intricacies. Their insights, honed by a deep understanding of local dynamics, elevate technology from a tool to a driving force for innovation.

Tech evolution is a constant, and PCC ensures businesses aren't left behind. Their grasp of emerging trends empowers informed decisions. The result? Businesses are poised to harness the latest technologies to fuel growth.

PCC isn't just about solutions; they're about enduring partnerships. Their commitment to understanding individual needs births bespoke solutions that amplify efficiency and drive growth.

In the dynamic Bay Area tech ecosystem, PCC thrives. Their suite of services, from managed solutions to virtual CIO services, propels businesses forward. Seamlessly melding technology and strategy, PCC ensures businesses stay not just competitive, but visionary.

Reimagine Your Success: PCC’s Guiding Light in the Bay Area 

The Bay Area's tech crescendo demands businesses be pioneers, not followers. Professional Computer Concepts (PCC) stands as the beacon guiding businesses toward this innovative horizon.

PCC's mastery lies in tailoring technology strategies to Bay Area rhythms. Their insights, drawn from an intimate understanding of local dynamics, fuel innovation, not just integration.

In a tech whirlwind, staying abreast is a necessity. PCC's grasp of emerging trends empowers businesses to lead the curve, not chase it.

Beyond solutions, PCC crafts enduring partnerships. Their commitment to understanding individual needs births bespoke solutions that amplify efficiency and drive growth.

In the dynamic Bay Area tech ecosystem, PCC thrives. Their suite of services, from managed solutions to virtual CIO services, propels businesses forward. Seamlessly melding technology and strategy, PCC ensures businesses stay not just competitive, but visionary.

Source: https://www.calpcc.com/maximize-business-potential-expert-it-consulting-bay-area/

[kerra-and-company]

6, 8, and 12 for Cioffi! @ratasum

Interview questions! :D Cio hours, let's go!

6. What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever had to do?

Cio's mouth twists to the side a bit, forming half of a humorless smile. "That'd be years ago--not jumping off that ship and swimming back to Claw Island...to Sieran. There was a moment where I very much wanted to--Alchemy, I didn't want to get on the damn ship in the first place." She lets out a breath, her hand going to a bag at her side. You can just barely see the tip of a blue notebook peeking out. She smiles genuinely but small, tinged with lingering grief. "I'm grateful now that Nisha wouldn't let me stay behind. She wouldn't have wanted me to die with her. She'd be happy that I'm happy these days, I think."

8. What do you think had the biggest impact on you growing up?

"What, not who? Well." Cio tilts her head sideways, then gestures vaguely to her hair and eyes. "Do you think my fellow progeny--or their parents, or their instructors, or almost every other citizen of Rata Sum--held back their opinions about this?" She laughs, almost monotone. "And that was the easiest part to deal with, the looks and the words. Being visibly connected to the dragon who drove your people from their homes makes you a target, whether it's for bullies or for the Inquest. I have enough stories about my childhood to write a novel series, quite honestly. But it would have been much less of a problem if they hadn't treated me differently. I was never dangerous. Not in the way they thought."

12. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be? (on vacation or permanently!)

"I've seen enough of the world for a lifetime, but even so, Ari and I might travel around more of Cantha someday. So far--since the asura gate's been installed--we've really only seen Arborstone."

[thebusylilbee]

"Les JO, c’est super. Mais pour qui et à quel prix ? [...]

Les fan zones sont pleines de gens qui rient et pleurent ensemble devant les transmissions des épreuves ; 5 200 personnes ont été expulsées de squats et de campements de rue en Île-de-France en un an et envoyées en région sans solution de logement.

Les transports publics roulent bien et les agent·es d’accueil sont plebiscité·es pour leur bonne humeur ; les émissions de CO2 des Jeux olympiques de Paris (JOP), 1,58 million de tonnes au minimum, seront l’équivalent de ce que rejettent 150 000 personnes en France en un an.

Des athlètes couronné·es sont d’anciens enfants placés ou ont grandi dans des quartiers pauvres ; le prix des places pour la cérémonie de clôture des Jeux va de 250 à 1 600 euros – plus qu’un mois de salaire minimum.

C’est officiellement la trêve olympique, et la délégation ukrainienne a remporté deux médailles d’or (sabre et saut en hauteur), ainsi qu’une de bronze (lutte gréco-romaine), qui deviennent des symboles de résistance face à l’agression militaire russe ; les bombardements israéliens n’ont pas cessé à Gaza, visant une école transformée en refuge le 10 août, veille de la clôture des Jeux, tuant près de cent personnes selon un premier bilan. [...]

La vasque et sa flamme olympique en LED et vapeur d’eau flottant au-dessus des Tuileries émerveillent le public ; les enfants du quartier Pleyel à Saint-Denis vont subir les pots d’échappement de la voie vers l’autoroute construite collée à leur école pour les JOP.

Imaginaire collectif coupé en deux

Cette liste pourrait s’allonger encore et encore. Dans ces conditions, quelles conclusions en tirer sur la portée de l’événement ? [...]

Une situation peut être à la fois agréable et pourtant néfaste. On peut aimer boire du Coca-Cola ou de la vodka, cela n’empêche pas que ce soit mauvais pour la santé ; adorer voyager vers des pays lointains alors que les trajets en avion contribuent à la destruction du climat [...]. Les émotions, aussi fortes soient-elles, ne suffisent pas à façonner la réalité.

En 2015, les chercheurs Stefan Aykut et Amy Dahan parlaient de « schisme de réalité » pour décrire les négociations climat, car elles voulaient réduire les gaz à effet de serre sans s’attaquer à leurs principales émettrices, les industries fossiles. Elles avaient créé un théâtre de discours sans prise directe avec le problème à résoudre.

À sa manière, Paris 2024 aura été un schisme de réalité : il y a une dissociation entre le spectacle, excitant, prenant, populaire, et les conditions de sa fabrication, brutales, excluantes, coûteuses et injustes. C’est un déchirement sensible. Le sentiment d’une immense réussite s’entend dans les déclarations des organisateurs et des dirigeants politiques. La fierté et la joie s’expriment un peu partout, aux repas familiaux, entre collègues, avec ses voisins, sur les réseaux sociaux, dans les médias. Mais qui écoute la complainte, la colère et les douleurs de celles et ceux qui ont été éjecté·es de la fête ?

Si le prix à payer en « nettoyage social », en élitisme commercial (le prix des billets, du merchandising et d’un séjour à Paris) et en destructions environnementales (climat, arbres coupés au parc Georges-Valbon, jardins ouvriers détruits à Aubervilliers et pollution de l’air à Saint-Denis), est considéré comme acceptable, le risque est d’abaisser les critères d’exigence démocratique, sociale et écologique pour la suite.

Car si un pouvoir peut décider un tel événement sans consulter la population, en cédant aux exigences d’une association croulant sous les accusations de corruption (le CIO), en engageant au moins 10 milliards d’euros sans transparence sur le coût final en argent public, et en multipliant les promesses écologiques intenables, alors pourquoi ne pas continuer ?"

[perfectlyyoungtimetravel]

Black History Month:Day 04

For the 4th day I drew Maida Springer Kemp-She was born on May 12th in 1910.In Rio Sidro,Panama,her mother was Adina Steward Carrington.At the age of 7,She and her mother moved to Harlem,New York.Her mother listented to the messages of Marcus Garvey and she would pass down the lessons she had learned to her daughter,teaching her to value education and to be hopeful.Maida joined the labour movement during the Great Depression when she became a member of the Dressmakers' Union,Local 22 of the International Ladies' Garment Workers Union and her interest in unions would grow after hearing a radio address by Asa Philip Randolph in 1929.Asa's speech helped her realize that there were larger forces that hindered working people.And In 1933.Local 22 launched a successful general strike of dressmakers.Afterwards Maida quickly moved up the union's ranks.In 1938.She began serving on the executive board and in 1940.She became the chair of the local's education committee,she was known as 'the pride of ILGWU' and Asa became her mentor and helped raise her profile by choosing her as one of the first African Americans to march in New York's grand union parade.In 1945.Maida became the first black woman to represent U.S. labor overseas when the AFL and CIO sent her as part of a group observing wartime conditions in Great Britain.Her time in England would be only the beginning of her international efforts to promote union organizing.She helped found the first women's labor movement in Turkey before becoming a key figure in establishing relationships between leaders in the emerging African and U.S. labor movements.She advised newly-formed unions in Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, Ghana and other African nations and would help run a scholarship program for union members.She would officially join the AFL-CIO's International Affairs Department in 1959.A position which she held until 1965.From 1970. To 1973.She served as the Midwest Director of the A. Philip Randolph Institute,where she would work on voter registration and education.She also worked for the African American Labor Center and coordinated relief programs after drought struck in Africa.She later became a consultant with the Asian American Free Labor Institute and worked as a consultant and lecturer promoting women's labor rights and unionism in Africa.And so she continued to promote equality for working women and supported the labor movement long after her retirement in 1981.

She died on March 29th in 2005.In Pittsburg,Pennsylvania at the age of 94

Credits for information: AFL-CIO

Materials used:Soft pastel crayons,HB pencil and 8B pencil

See you guys later ^^ 💖💖💙💙

[careermantradotorg]

Top MBA Specializations to Boost Your Success

In today’s fast-paced, competitive world, obtaining a Master of Business Administration (MBA) is often seen as a gateway to professional growth and leadership roles. However, choosing the right MBA specialization is crucial in shaping the trajectory of your career. With an array of MBA specializations available, selecting the one that aligns with your interests and professional goals can significantly enhance your career prospects. This blog explores the Top MBA Specializations to help you make an informed decision and ensure long-term success.

Why MBA Specializations Matter

An MBA degree offers you a solid foundation in business management, but the specialization allows you to dive deep into a specific domain, equipping you with the expertise needed to excel in that field. Your choice of MBA specializations can determine the industry you enter, the roles you assume, and the salary you command. Hence, understanding the options available is critical to ensuring your professional success.

Top MBA Specializations to Consider

MBA in Finance Arguably one of the most popular MBA specializations, an MBA in Finance prepares students for leadership roles in banking, investment management, financial planning, and corporate finance. Graduates are equipped with the skills to manage financial resources, analyze market trends, and make data-driven financial decisions. High demand in sectors like investment banking, asset management, and insurance makes this specialization a strong choice for those looking to climb the corporate ladder.

MBA in Marketing If you're passionate about creativity, consumer behavior, and brand management, an MBA in Marketing might be the perfect fit. This specialization focuses on product management, digital marketing strategies, sales management, and consumer insights. Marketing MBAs are highly sought after in industries such as retail, e-commerce, advertising, and media. With the rise of digital marketing, graduates are often positioned to lead marketing campaigns that leverage data analytics, SEO, and social media strategies.

MBA in Human Resource Management (HRM) Businesses rely on human capital to thrive, and MBA specializations in Human Resource Management focus on equipping professionals with the skills to manage and develop this essential resource. Graduates with an MBA in HRM are trained in employee relations, talent management, recruitment strategies, and leadership development. This specialization is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with people and are interested in organizational development and change management.

MBA in Operations Management For those with an interest in logistics, supply chain management, and process optimization, an MBA in Operations Management is a top choice. This specialization emphasizes the efficient management of business operations, including product manufacturing, service delivery, and resource allocation. With the rise of globalization and technological advancements, professionals in this field are in high demand across sectors like manufacturing, e-commerce, and logistics.

MBA in Information Technology (IT) As technology continues to drive business innovations, an MBA specialization in Information Technology prepares students for leadership roles in tech-driven environments. This specialization integrates management principles with technical expertise, covering topics like IT strategy, project management, and systems analysis. Graduates can pursue roles such as IT managers, Chief Information Officers (CIO), and project consultants in industries ranging from software development to IT services.

MBA in International Business In a globalized economy, businesses are increasingly operating across borders, making an MBA in International Business highly relevant. This specialization focuses on global trade practices, international marketing, and cross-cultural management. Graduates are equipped to handle the complexities of managing international teams, navigating foreign markets, and developing global strategies. It's an excellent option for those aspiring to work with multinational corporations or in the export-import sector.

MBA in Entrepreneurship If you're driven by innovation and want to start your own business or lead startups, an MBA in Entrepreneurship could be your gateway to success. This specialization covers topics like venture capital, business plan development, and startup financing. With the growing startup ecosystem worldwide, this MBA specialization enables graduates to turn business ideas into viable ventures or take leadership roles in fast-growing companies.

MBA in Healthcare Management With the healthcare industry expanding rapidly, an MBA in Healthcare Management is becoming an increasingly popular specialization. This program equips students with the skills to manage healthcare facilities, lead healthcare teams, and navigate healthcare policies and regulations. Graduates are sought after for roles in hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and healthcare consultancy firms.

How to Choose the Right MBA Specialization

Choosing the right MBA specialization depends on your career goals, personal interests, and the industry trends you want to tap into. Ask yourself the following questions:

What are my strengths and areas of interest?

Which industries are growing, and where is there a high demand for skilled professionals?

What are the long-term career prospects of each MBA specialization?

By answering these questions, you can align your MBA specialization with your career aspirations and boost your chances of success.

Conclusion

Selecting the right MBA specialization is a pivotal decision that can shape your future career path. Whether you aim to lead in finance, marketing, operations, or any other industry, a well-chosen MBA specialization will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and network to excel in your professional journey. Explore these top MBA specializations, assess your goals, and take the first step toward a successful career!

[nadiegesabate1990]

A crowd of protesters takes to the streets of Seattle, in the United States, and prevents the opening of the 3rd Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization. The millennium comes to an end with protests against globalization and neo-protectionism in rich countries.

On November 30th, US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright was preparing to deliver the opening speech at the 3rd Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO), the so-called "Millennium Round". But Albright could do nothing. Shortly before the event began, a storm would sweep through Seattle. At Pike Place Market, just a few miles from the city's commercial center, a crowd began to gather. According to an environmental activist from the NGO Sierra Clube, at 6 am there were more than 10,000 people gathered at the site - some dressed as sea turtles.

Nearby, in the Memorial Stadium parking lot, over 20,000 trade unionists were meeting, including representatives of unions and associations from different countries, including the CUT and Força Sindical, from Brazil. Finally, the two groups, armed with posters and plaques and many of their members in costume, marched determinedly towards the Convention Center where the WTO meeting would take place, shouting in defense of ecology and subsidies and against globalization. The super demonstration brought together people of all stripes - environmentalists, right-wingers, paranoids, neo-Nazis, anarchists, religious people and various left-wing groups.

The congestion was enormous, stranding the limousines of the big shots and the vans intended for the bodyguards. In the vicinity of the Westin hotel, where the North American delegation had stayed, there were at least 5 thousand people surrounding the visitors. The city hall, evidently, placed riot troops on the streets and tried to contain the crowd with tear gas bombs. There were fights, police beating and dragging people through the streets. By Friday the 3rd, there were 500 prisoners and 40 injured, including a police officer in serious condition.

It was supposed to be a peaceful demonstration, assured the main organizers, the AFL-CIO union and a coalition of ecological groups. But this was not what young, more radical anarchists intended. For months, kilograms of announcements about the storm had been being sent via the Internet. The scenario for confusion, therefore, was already properly designed, and at 10:30 am it was already known that the opening of the WTO meeting was compromised. Furthermore, the police were not adequately prepared to maintain order. As for the big shots, they were also warned by the Secret Service about what could happen.

At 8:30 pm that Tuesday, the confusion escalated to such an extent that it became out of control. Supposed anarchists began burning trash cans and stacking mailboxes; Then the riots (window windows, large stores) and graffiti began. The situation became critical and Mayor Paulo Schell declared a state of emergency, called in the National Guard and instituted a curfew, a regime that would be extended until the weekend. Trade unionist John Sweeney, president of the AFL-CIO, said in an interview with the magazine: "What unites us all here is the fact that the WTO makes decisions in the absence of civil society." Meanwhile, the United States' chief negotiator, Charlenne Barshefsky, agreed with the protesters, who accused the organization of being just a body where decisions are made secretly, behind closed doors and without democratic consultation.

On Thursday, President Clinton, before speaking to WTO representatives, told the farmers' association that free trade is something that could be good for everyone and that the government would fight for the international organization's decisions to be made. in a clearer way and with the participation of civil society interest groups.

[feminist-space]

"...The planned HICPAC revisions would water down infection control protections, particularly for aerosol transmission and multidrug-resistant organisms.

Most immediately worrisome is its conclusion that plain surgical masks (aka “baggy blues”) are equivalent to N95s and provide adequate protection to healthcare workers and patients. There is abundant evidence to the contrary. This from the CDC:

[Graphic showing that N95s lower odds of getting covid]

It is clear that N95s offer far better protection against aerosols, such as from Covid-19 and other inhaled pathogens.

More than 900 experts in infectious disease, public health, industrial hygiene, aerosol science and ventilation engineering signed a letter to Mandy Cohen, M.D., the new CDC director, explaining how the new draft guidelines weaken protections for healthcare workers. They state, “Surgical masks cannot be recommended to protect health care personnel against inhalation of infectious aerosols.”

The experts’ letter was coauthored by Lisa Brosseau, Jane Thomason and Peg Seminario, among others. Seminario was the director of occupational safety and health for the AFL-CIO from 1990 to 2019.

The CDC responded to Seminario and the experts’ letter only now, a month later, and just before the scheduled Aug 22 meeting. The agency offered no substantive or specific rebuttal, but spoke of its dedication to “improving healthcare quality” and commitment to “to transparency, communication, and stakeholder engagement.” It also claimed that the CDC is meeting the guidelines for transparency required by the Federal Advisory Committees Act. The letter is not yet publicly available.

HICPAC’s proposals also fail to include ventilation, UV disinfection and HEPA filtration, all essential tools against an airborne pathogen.

There are many concerns regarding HICPAC’s process, as well.

Meetings did not include experts in aerosol transmission, ventilation, occupational health and worker protections, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (part of the Department of Labor), National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (part of CDC which researches worker health and safety) or representatives of healthcare workers.

Lisa Brosseau, an expert on respiratory protection from infections at the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy and a retired professor, expressed outrage at HICPAC’s process: “Why are they not consulting with all the people and all the stakeholders? They are not, and that's a sort of basic expectation of a federal advisory committee.”

Brosseau was equally critical of the committee’s literature review, saying that it was “cherrypicked” and “the most ridiculous literature review I've ever seen.” She concluded, “I think they were hoping nobody would notice” how the review was manipulated.

While HICPAC suddenly (Aug 15–a week before its scheduled meeting) invited public participation, it has not provided meeting notes, minutes, transcripts or a draft policy beyond its bullet point slides.

Thomason said HICPAC is “weakening existing guidance for infection control and not following the science that has been built over the last several decades about aerosol transmission.” She added that, in their goal of providing more flexibility, “They said to employers, ‘Here are the minimal standards, and you guys figure out what you need and want to do.’” They are proposing minimal crisis standards of care.

Brosseau added, “Being in health and safety, I know where that goes. It means you get nothing, workers get nothing, no protections. You don’t leave it to the employer to make decisions about workplace hazards.”"

More in the article:

[444namesplus]

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DITSA DJC DOE Dolch domestic Domination DRA DREC DREO DSD DSS Duress DynCorp E911 e-cash E.O.D. E.T. EADA eavesdropping Echelon EDI EG&G Egret Electronic ELF Elvis Embassy Encryption encryption enigma EO EOD ESN Espionage espionage ETA eternity EUB Evaluation Event executive Exon explicit Face fangs Fax FBI FBIS FCIC FDM Fetish FINCEN finks Firewalls FIS fish fissionable FKS FLAME Flame Flashbangs FLETC Flintlock FLiR Flu FMS Force force Fort Forte fraud freedom Freeh froglegs FSB Ft. FX FXR Gamma Gap garbage Gates Gatt GCHQ GEO GEODSS GEOS Geraldton GGL GIGN Gist Global Glock GOE Goodwin Gorelick gorilla Gorizont government GPMG Gray grom Grove GRU GSA GSG-9 GSS gun Guppy H&K H.N.P. Hackers HAHO Halcon Halibut HALO Harvard hate havens HIC High Hillal HoHoCon Hollyhock Hope House HPCC HRT HTCIA humint Hutsul IACIS IB ICE ID IDEA IDF IDP illuminati imagery IMF Indigo industrial Information INFOSEC InfoSec Infowar Infrastructure Ingram INR INS Intelligence intelligence interception Internet Intiso Investigation Ionosphere IRIDF Iris IRS IS ISA ISACA ISI ISN ISS IW jack JANET Jasmine JAVA JICC jihad JITEM Juile Juiliett Keyhole keywords Kh-11 Kilderkin Kilo Kiwi KLM l0ck LABLINK Lacrosse Lebed LEETAC Leitrim Lexis-Nexis LF LLC loch lock Locks Loin Love LRTS LUK Lynch M5 M72750 M-14 M.P.R.I. Mac-10 Mace Macintosh Magazine mailbomb man Mantis market Masuda Mavricks Mayfly MCI MD2 MD4 MD5 MDA Meade Medco mega Menwith Merlin Meta-hackers MF MI5 MI6 MI-17 Middleman Military Minox MIT MITM MOD MOIS mol Mole Morwenstow Mossberg MP5k MP5K-SD MSCJ MSEE MSNBC MSW MYK NACSI NATIA National NATOA NAVWAN NAVWCWPNS NB NCCS NCSA Nerd News niche NIJ Nike NIMA ninja nitrate nkvd NOCS noise NORAD NRC NRL NRO NSA NSCT NSG NSP NSWC NTIS NTT Nuclear nuclear NVD OAU Offensive Oratory Ortega orthodox Oscor OSS OTP package Panama Park passwd Passwords Patel PBX PCS Peering PEM penrep Perl-RSA PFS PGP Phon-e phones PI picking

Pine pink Pixar PLA Planet-1 Platform Playboy plutonium POCSAG Police Porno Pornstars Posse PPP PPS president press-release Pretoria Priavacy primacord PRIME Propaganda Protection PSAC Pseudonyms Psyops PTT quiche r00t racal RAID rail Rand Rapid RCMP Reaction rebels Recce Red redheads Reflection remailers ReMOB Reno replay Retinal RFI rhost rhosts RIT RL rogue Rolm Ronco Roswell RSA RSP RUOP RX-7 S.A.I.C. S.E.T. S/Key SABC SACLANT SADF SADMS Salsa SAP SAR Sardine sardine SAS SASP SASR Satellite SBI SBIRS SBS SCIF screws Scully SDI SEAL Sears Secert secret Secure secure Security SEL SEMTEX SERT server Service SETA Sex SGC SGDN SGI SHA SHAPE Shayet-13 Shell shell SHF SIG SIGDASYS SIGDEV sigvoice siliconpimp SIN SIRC SISDE SISMI Skytel SL-1 SLI SLIP smuggle sneakers sniper snuffle SONANGOL SORO Soros SORT Speakeasy speedbump Spetznaz Sphinx spies Spoke Sponge spook Spyderco squib SRI ssa SSCI SSL stakeout Standford STARLAN Stego STEP Stephanie Steve Submarine subversives Sugar SUKLO SUN Sundevil supercomputer Surveillance SURVIAC SUSLO SVR SWAT sweep sweeping SWS Talent TDM. TDR TDYC Team Telex TELINT Templeton TEMPSET Terrorism Texas TEXTA. THAAD the Ti TIE Tie-fighter Time toad Tools top TOS Tower transfer TRD Trump TRW TSCI TSCM TUSA TWA UDT UHF UKUSA unclassified UNCPCJ Undercover Underground Unix unix UOP USACIL USAFA USCG USCODE USCOI USDOJ USP USSS UT/RUS utopia UTU UXO Uzi V veggie Verisign VHF Video Vinnell VIP Virii virtual virus VLSI VNET W3 Wackendude Wackenhutt Waihopai WANK Warfare Weekly White white Whitewater William WINGS wire Wireless words World WORM X XS4ALL Yakima Yobie York Yukon Zen zip zone ~

[channeltechnologies]

We are happy to announce Mr. K Yegneshwara Iyer, Cybersecurity Consultant at Cystech Controls Pvt. Ltd., as a moderator for one of the insightful panel discussions at our upcoming cybersecurity conference!

With over 25 years of experience in IT leadership roles like CIO, CTO, and CISO, he has successfully led innovative IT and cybersecurity strategies for top organizations. He brings deep expertise in transforming IT operations, aligning technology with business goals, and strengthening cybersecurity resilience.

Get ready as he, along with other industry experts, discusses the adoption of SASE solutions for mid-market businesses!

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[yadavkhushboo]

Business Analyst vs. Data Analyst: Which Role to Choose?

Choosing between a career as a Business Analyst (BA) or a Data Analyst (DA) depends on various factors such as your interests, skills, and career goals. Both roles are crucial in the data-driven decision-making process within organizations, but they differ significantly in terms of responsibilities, skill sets, and outcomes. In this article, we will compare the two roles to help you make an informed decision about which career path is more suitable for you.

Key Differences in Responsibilities

A Business Analyst primarily focuses on understanding the business requirements of an organization. They work closely with stakeholders, including managers, customers, and other departments, to identify problems, define needs, and recommend solutions. Their role involves a mix of gathering business requirements, defining project scope, process mapping, and ensuring that the solutions align with the business goals. Business Analysts may also help bridge the gap between the technical team and business stakeholders, ensuring that the final product meets the business’s needs.

On the other hand, a Data Analyst is more focused on interpreting and analyzing data. Their primary responsibility is to collect, process, and perform statistical analysis on large datasets to identify trends, patterns, and insights that can inform business decisions. Data Analysts often use tools like Excel, SQL, Python, or R for data cleaning, data visualization, and statistical analysis. While Business Analysts look at the "big picture," Data Analysts delve deep into data to provide actionable insights that can drive improvements in efficiency, customer experience, or profitability.

Skill Sets Required

The skill sets for both roles overlap in some areas, but each position also demands distinct expertise.

For a Business Analyst, important skills include:

Communication: BA’s need excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact with stakeholders and convey complex technical details in an understandable manner.

Problem-Solving: They need to quickly identify business problems and design effective solutions.

Requirements Gathering: BAs must be proficient in gathering and documenting business requirements from clients or internal stakeholders.

Process Modeling: Knowledge of techniques like workflow diagrams, process flowcharts, or use cases is essential.

Project Management: BAs should have an understanding of project management methodologies to ensure that projects meet deadlines and budgets.

For a Data Analyst, key skills include:

Technical Skills: A strong understanding of data manipulation tools (e.g., SQL, Excel) and programming languages (e.g., Python, R) is crucial.

Analytical Thinking: DA’s need a strong analytical mindset to understand and interpret complex data sets.

Statistical Knowledge: Knowledge of statistics is important for interpreting data and drawing conclusions.

Data Visualization: Proficiency with visualization tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or even Python libraries like Matplotlib is important for presenting data in a clear, accessible way.

Career Growth and Opportunities

Both fields offer strong career prospects, but they differ in their paths. Business Analysts often transition into roles like Product Manager, Project Manager, or even Chief Information Officer (CIO). Because BAs are involved in shaping business strategies and processes, they may have broader career opportunities across various industries, including consulting, finance, healthcare, and technology.

Data Analysts, on the other hand, can move into more specialized roles such as Data Scientist, Data Engineer, or even Chief Data Officer (CDO). The demand for skilled Data Analysts is rising across all industries, particularly in tech, finance, and e-commerce, as businesses increasingly rely on data to drive decision-making.

Which Role Should You Choose?

The decision ultimately depends on your interests and strengths. If you enjoy problem-solving, working closely with business stakeholders, and managing projects, a Business Analyst role may be a better fit. On the other hand, if you are more interested in working with data, performing statistical analysis, and generating insights from complex datasets, then a Data Analyst role might suit you better.

Both positions offer great growth potential and a chance to make a significant impact within an organization. Consider what excites you more—working on business strategies or diving deep into data to extract valuable insights—and align that with your skills and long-term career growth.

[concats]

In today's fast-paced business environment, having a strategic marketing partner is essential for success. With Concat's Virtual CMO services, businesses gain access to the expertise and guidance they need to navigate the complexities of modern marketing landscape and drive meaningful results. Visit:- https://concators.com/virtual-cxo-services-virtual-cfo-services/

[news365timesindia]

[ad_1] South Korea’s anti-corruption agency has sought police assistance to enforce a warrant to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his alleged attempt to impose martial law, both parties confirmed on Monday, Yonhap News Agency reported. According to the report, the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials (CIO) formally submitted the request on Sunday night, just a day before the warrant was set to expire. “The CIO sent us an official letter requesting our cooperation without prior consultations. We are internally carrying out a legal review,” a police official told Yonhap. On Friday, the CIO halted its attempt to detain Yoon following a prolonged standoff with the Presidential Security Service (PSS). The CIO, in a press release, had said, “We determined that executing the detention warrant would be practically impossible due to the continued confrontation, and suspended the execution out of concern for the safety of on-site personnel caused by the resistance. We plan to decide on the next steps following a review.” It added, “We express serious regret over the behaviour of the suspect who refused to comply with legally set procedures,” Yonhap reported. On Friday, over 1,000 pro-Yoon protesters gathered near the residence with slogans such as “Illegal warrant! Completely invalid!” and “Arrest the CIO.” Around 2,700 police officers were deployed to maintain order. Investigators had presented court-issued warrants to detain Yoon and search his residence, but they were blocked by PSS chief Park Chong-jun, who cited restrictions on secured areas, Yonhap’s report added. The CIO sought the detention warrant after Yoon failed to respond to three summonses for questioning. The agency also obtained a warrant to search the presidential residence. Yoon’s legal defence team has called the warrants “illegal and invalid” and filed an injunction to block their execution. Earlier on December 14, last year, Yoon was impeached by the National Assembly over his attempt to impose martial law in the country. The members of the unicameral National Assembly had voted 204 to 85 to impeach South Korea’s President. Three members of the National Assembly abstained from voting, while eight votes were declared invalid. The voting was conducted through a secret ballot, with two-thirds of the vote needed for impeachment. All 300 members of the assembly cast their votes. After his impeachment, Yoon was suspended from office. [ad_2] Source link

[thebusylilbee]

"C’est une procédure inhabituelle. Vendredi 19 juillet, le collectif No JO 2030 dépose une demande en caducité auprès du Comité international olympique (CIO). Dans ce courrier, que Mediapart a pu consulter, les opposant·es à la tenue des Jeux olympiques (JO) d’hiver dans les Alpes demandent au CIO de considérer la candidature française comme caduque, c’est-à-dire périmée. [...]

Ils dénoncent l’illégalité de la candidature française, qui aurait dû, selon eux, faire l’objet d’un débat public, compte tenu des impacts des aménagements sur les écosystèmes. Et alertent sur les destructions environnementales et les dégâts climatiques que causeraient ces Jeux dans le milieu désormais très vulnérable de la montagne française.

« Cette candidature est dans une impasse. Il faut en sortir par le haut : on efface tout et on recommence », dit Pierre Janot, membre du collectif, élu au conseil régional et avocat de métier. [...]

C’est au nom du climat et de l’impératif écologique que le skieur de fond Stéphane Passeron s’oppose aux JO de 2030 dans les Alpes. Athlète de haut niveau, membre de l’équipe de France pendant vingt ans, puis entraîneur de l’équipe de France de ski nordique handisport aux JO de Vancouver en 2010, il est aujourd’hui moniteur dans la vallée du Champsaur. Il fait partie de la délégation qui demande à être entendue par le CIO et explique à Mediapart pourquoi il appelle à en finir avec les grands événements sportifs et culturels.

Mediapart : Que demandez-vous au Comité international olympique ?

Stéphane Passeron : On demande le retrait de la candidature de la France. Elle n’est simplement pas soutenable au vu des finances, au vu du climat, au vu de la situation politique, et au vu du déni démocratique. On n’a jamais demandé l’avis de personne. Renaud Muselier a été élu à la région Paca pour faire barrage au Rassemblement national. On a tous voté pour lui, y compris à gauche et chez les écolos. Et il lance une candidature aux Jeux olympiques sans demander l’avis d’aucun parti de gauche. Alors que sans nous, il ne serait pas président de la région, ce serait le RN.

On s’adresse au CIO pour que le comité se rende compte qu’il y a un problème en France. Parce qu’ils n’arrêtent pas de dire au CIO que tout va bien, que tous les Français veulent ces Jeux olympiques. Alors que de nombreux sondages indiquent que ce n’est pas vrai. Et on veut expliquer aux Français que les montagnes s’effondrent et que donc, on n’en est plus à faire ce genre d’événement.

Pourquoi les JO d’hiver sont-ils incompatibles avec la situation climatique selon vous ?

En juin, en Isère, juste à côté de la barre des Écrins, un vieux village, La Bérarde, a disparu sous les cailloux. La pluie, ajoutée à la fonte des neiges, a formé un lac sous un glacier qui a craqué et est venu raser le village. Ce hameau était très connu parce que c’est un lieu de départ d’escalade. C’est l’un de ces moments où, quand on nous demande pourquoi on ne veut plus de JO, on répond : regardez autour de vous, tout s’effondre.

On ne peut plus faire de grands événements comme ça, au vu de la situation climatique mondiale, que ce soit la Coupe du monde de foot ou même le Tour de France, avec ses 2 500 voitures, ses dix hélicoptères et ses trois avions. Il y a une problématique entre nos constats environnementaux et nos choix de société. Le sport est hyper impactant au niveau environnemental. [...]

Le Vercors n’avait pas eu de neige de l’hiver. La Transjurassienne, qui est une épreuve de ski de fond très connue, a été annulée. Il n’y a plus de neige. Et on ne peut pas dire que c’est une surprise puisque le Giec [Groupe d’experts intergouvernemental sur l’évolution du climat – ndlr] nous l’annonce depuis longtemps. J’habite une toute petite vallée. Tous nos sentiers de randonnée ont été abîmés et il y en a même qui ont disparu. Il y a un refuge au fond de la vallée : la piste pour y accéder a sauté. En bas de la vallée, ça fait deux ou trois fois cette année qu’il y a eu un énorme éboulement qui nous a coupés de l’extérieur, parce que ça dégèle au mois de janvier maintenant.

Il n’y a plus que les grosses stations qui arrivent à s’en sortir, celles qui sont très hautes. En bas, les stations sont toutes à la neige artificielle. Cela a un coût énergétique et financier monstrueux. Pour les dernières épreuves de la Coupe du monde au Grand-Bornand, en Haute-Savoie, il a fallu transporter la neige avec des camions. Parce qu’il n’y avait pas un gramme de neige. Et c’est là qu’ils veulent faire les Jeux olympiques ?

Ne suffirait-il pas que les JO de 2030 s’adaptent et s’organisent dans ces stations de haute montagne, là où il y a encore de la neige ?

C’est ce qu’ils feront pour les sports alpins, qui n’utiliseront peut-être pas de la neige artificielle. Mais il y a tous les autres sujets : le CO2, les infrastructures à construire. Ils imaginent faire une 2x2 voies dans la vallée de la Durance pour monter sur Briançon, vu qu’ils y prévoient un pôle freeride et snowboard. Il y aura aussi des canons à neige, des parkings, des hélicoptères.

Ils disent qu’ils utilisent 95 % des infrastructures existantes, mais le tremplin de saut de Courchevel n’a plus la bonne longueur, il faut tout refaire. À Nice, ils ont prévu de faire une patinoire de 13 000 spectateurs sur un terrain où il était prévu de construire des logements sociaux. [...]

Et en plus, ils vont être hyper pressés, parce qu’on est déjà en 2024, et que les JO d’hiver, c’est en 2030. Ils ont cinq ans pour tout construire. Ça va être un délire. Mais le plus grave, c’est que ça nous empêche de faire de la résilience.

Pourquoi ?

Parce qu’ils font croire à la population qu’on peut continuer comme avant. Alors que non, on ne peut plus. C’est juste ça. Et c’est là où ça dépasse le cadre de ces Jeux olympiques. [...]

Pensez-vous qu’il faut abandonner l’idée des JO d’hiver?

Pas que les JO d’hiver : il faut abandonner les grands événements. Je vous raconte une anecdote. En 2010, je suis dans l’avion qui m’emmène à Vancouver, aux Jeux olympiques.

J’avais fait ma carrière de skieur et j’étais devenu entraîneur de l’équipe de France en handisport. Dans ma tête, ça travaillait déjà. Je commençais à n’être pas bien. J’avançais dans une autre direction. Je retapais une maison dans le Champsaur en me disant que j’allais venir me mettre au vert parce que le monde va mal. Mais, en même temps, je ne lâchais pas le morceau. Et dans l’avion qui m’emmène, ils mettent sur le petit écran le film d’Al Gore [ancien vice-président des États-Unis – ndlr], Une vérité qui dérange. Et là, le clash. Je me suis dit que j’emmènerai l’équipe aux JO, car je suis quelqu’un qui tient sa parole, mais que le lendemain j’arrêterai et je ne prendrai plus l’avion.

Je pense que tout grand événement, même les grands concerts de rock et les grands festivals, il faut le questionner. Ce sont des tonnes de watts dépensées à chaque fois. Si on ne fait pas entrer dans les têtes des gens qu’on ne peut pas continuer comme ça, on n’y arrivera pas. Le groupe Shaka Ponk a décidé d’arrêter ces tournées. Ça commence à bouger un peu chez les sportifs aussi. [...]

J’ai passé des super moments à faire des événements comme la Coupe du monde. Je ne dis pas que ce n’était pas bien. Je ne vais jamais dire que ce n’est pas génial, les JO. J’y étais, je vois l’ambiance, l’adrénaline que j’ai eue au départ d’une Coupe du monde. C’était des moments extraordinaires. Mais juste, on ne peut plus continuer et je le dis de manière très triste.

Le déni, il est partout. C’est très dur. Aujourd’hui [jour de l’interview, mercredi 17 juillet – ndlr], il y avait le Tour de France qui passait à Gap. Les gens y vont car ils peuvent toucher du bout des doigts un truc exceptionnel. J’entends, je le comprends, je l’ai ressenti, je l’ai vécu. Mais juste, on ne peut plus. Si vous aimez vos enfants, si vous aimez la vie, il va falloir arrêter ça, c’est tout.

Jade Lindgaard