Latest news with #Studio1847
Chicago Tribune
01-08-2025
- Chicago Tribune
2025's top kids smartwatch has a social feed even parents will allow
Content oversight provided by Studio 1847 As a parent, your priorities are simple: knowing where your child is, staying in touch and making sure they're safe, even when you're not around. A clunky smartphone? That's often too much too soon — too many distractions, too little control and way too easy to lose. In 2025, one kids' GPS smartwatch is leading the category — not by downsizing grown-up tech, but by redefining what children's connected devices should be. That smartwatch is the myFirst Fone R2. myFirst is a trusted family tech brand known for blending safety, fun and smart features in kids' devices. When launching a new smartwatch for kids, they didn't just upgrade features — they reimagined their first phone experience from the ground up. With a brilliant touchscreen display, real-time GPS tracker, video calling and a safe, parent-led social feed, the myFirst Fone R2 stands as part of a thoughtful ecosystem of kids smartwatches and devices that you can now buy at Walmart. From the start, the myFirst Fone R2 was engineered not just to protect kids but also to help parents have one less thing to worry about. Beyond the animated watch faces and adjustable straps, this clever GPS watch for kids delivers what truly matters: reliable connection, real-time safety and flexible parental controls. One of the most essential features in a kids' smartwatch, especially for children as young as 4 years old, is real-time GPS tracking. Parents can view their child's location history or live updates at any time and set up customizable Safe Zones, receiving alerts if their child exits areas like school or the babysitter's house. In critical situations, pressing the SOS smartwatch button sends both a GPS location and a 30-second recording of the surroundings to the emergency contact, giving families vital information when it matters most. And now kids can directly call 911 in emergency situations. Parents also give great reviews to the myFirst Fone R2 because it prioritizes digital safety. There's no open internet, no games and no bad social media habits. Every contact must be parent-approved, so kids only connect with trusted individuals. And with Class Mode, parents can silence non-essential functions during school hours, keeping kids focused. As myFirst founder and CEO, G-Jay Yong, puts it, 'We understand that for parents, safety is paramount regarding the technology their children use. Forget tech specs — what parents really need is peace of mind: to reach their child anytime and know they're safe.' Sleek hardware and design aside, parents and kids love how the myFirst Fone R2 brings connection to life, making it one of the best GPS kids' smartwatches for practicing safe social habits. The kids' watch is integrated with myFirst Circle secure family cloud, the brand's breakthrough hybrid app that combines parental controls with kid-friendly social media. Together, they create a connected experience that lets children stay in touch through voice messages, video calls, group chats and coparent location sharing, without open internet or conventional social media risks. Most kids' smartwatches with GPS only share with a parent's phone. But within myFirst Circle (or its customizable privacy 'circles'), children and family navigate a safe social feed for photos, videos and comments shared among approved family devices such as kids smart watches, WiFi-enabled kids digital cameras, and even digital photo frames which makes myFirst brand a one-of-a-kind digital childhood experience. For example, siblings or friends can share photos and comments, and add reactions visible from the kids' smartwatches and the smartphone apps used by approved adult contacts. Everybody can participate, and each post gets assigned a privacy 'circle.' Other unique interactive tools in the responsive kids smartwatch include Momoji — pressure-sensitive haptic emojis — and Knock-Knock — a quick way to ask 'what's up?' and receive a snapshot back. Everything makes the experience feel fun, spontaneous and actually age-appropriate. The myFirst Fone R2 is one of the most advanced kids' smartwatches available. It combines premium features like a vivid 1.3-inch AMOLED display, a high-resolution 5MP camera, eSIM connectivity, GPS tracking and smart sensors in a frame that's as sleek as it is playful. Everything on the screen — from texts to video calls — looks sharp thanks to its 360×360 pixel resolution and deep contrast. The ultra-responsive touchscreen is designed for little fingers, making it easy for kids to call, text and share using their unique social platform built for families and myFirst's ever-growing ecosystem of connected kids devices. Thoughtful details enhance the everyday experience. A light sensor automatically adjusts brightness to extend battery life. Fitness and heart rate sensors (as well as digital badges) encourage healthy habits, helping parents reward wellness. The water lock feature dries out the waterproof speakers with a drop of fun animation. And it all seamlessly connects together. Unlike many GPS watches for kids, the myFirst Fone R2 includes a high-res camera for capturing special moments that only children notice. Kids can snap selfies, make a photo gallery of backyard adventures and add fun filters before sharing instantly through the myFirst Circle app. It's not just an SOS smartwatch — it's a tool for sharing creativity. The myFirst Fone R2 provides an impressive kids smartwatch with real-time GPS, voice and video calls, SOS button, and a fun, kid-safe social feed. With over 40 customizable watch faces and five trendy colors, from space blue to purple, it's the perfect first device for kids to express themselves while staying connected. It's not just smart tech — it's smart parenting. Get your first month of unlimited calling, texting and data free, and experience the peace of mind with reliable tech. Order now at or pick one up at the Walmart Supercenter on South Cicero Avenue—conveniently serving families across Chicago.
Chicago Tribune
06-05-2025
- Business
- Chicago Tribune
Leading in harmony: The secret to building stronger teams through rhythm
Content oversight and quality assurance provided by Studio 1847 Strong leadership is not just about making decisions — it's about meaningful relationships. In his book 'in-Rhythm: The Key To Purposeful Engagement,' Dr. Terry Daniels explores how rhythm influences how people interact, lead and work together. He argues that leaders who embrace the natural flow of conversations and teamwork create an atmosphere of trust, collaboration and success. Leaders can enhance communication and build stronger connections by recognizing the right moments to listen, respond and act. How rhythm shapes leadership Every conversation has a pace. Some discussions require quick thinking, while others require patience and reflection. Leaders who understand this dynamic create smoother interactions and more productive work environments. Daniels compares leadership to a song — harmony results when every note is played at the right time. He explains that leaders who rush through conversations or fail to recognize the needs of their team create confusion. On the other hand, those who pay attention to timing and energy can guide discussions in a way that feels natural and engaging. 'When leaders move with the rhythm of their team, they create a sense of unity and shared purpose,' Daniels says. The art of listening and responding Great leaders know that listening is just as essential as speaking. Many assume leadership is about having all the answers, but Daniels challenges this idea. He believes true leadership comes from understanding and responding to the needs of others. He shares the story of a manager who struggled to connect with his employees. His team often felt overlooked and communication was strained. Everything changed when he tried to listen without interrupting and respond with thoughtful feedback. Employees became more engaged and team morale improved. 'When you take the time to listen truly, people feel valued,' Daniels explains. 'It's not about waiting for your turn to talk — it's about understanding what the other person is saying.' Leaders who prioritize listening build stronger relationships and create a culture of openness. Earning trust through authenticity Trust is the foundation of any strong workplace. Without it, collaboration suffers and people hesitate to share their thoughts. Daniels explains that trust is not built overnight. It develops through consistent actions, honesty and sincerity. He tells the story of an executive who struggled to gain his employees' trust. Although knowledgeable and experienced, his distant approach made people feel disconnected. When he started engaging with his team personally — acknowledging their efforts, keeping his promises and showing empathy — trust began to grow. 'Trust is built through small, everyday actions,' Daniels states. 'Leaders who care to create more motivated and dedicated teams.' An approachable and consistent leader creates an environment where people feel secure and valued. The power of nonverbal communication Words matter, but the way they are delivered is just as important. Daniels highlights the role of body language, facial expressions and tone of voice in leadership. A leader's presence can either strengthen their message or weaken it. He shares an example of a team leader who struggled to keep his team engaged. His words were encouraging, but his body language — crossed arms, lack of eye contact, and a flat tone — told a different story. His words carried more weight when he made minor adjustments, like using open gestures and eye contact, and his team responded with greater enthusiasm. 'Your body language speaks louder than your words,' Daniels explains. 'When your actions match your message, people trust and respect you more.' Leaders who align their verbal and nonverbal communication create a more compelling presence. Journey of growth and purpose Dr. Terry Daniels' path to leadership was filled with challenges and lessons. As a child, he struggled with self-confidence and often felt unheard. Difficult choices and setbacks marked his early years, but he discovered his passion for helping others through determination and faith. Today, Daniels is a pastor, executive coach and leadership expert. His experiences have given him deep insight into human connection and the power of rhythm in leadership. He now dedicates his work to helping others strengthen their communication and leadership skills. In 'in-Rhythm: The Key To Purposeful Engagement,' Daniels provides practical strategies for becoming a more effective leader. His insights remind readers that great leadership is not about power but connection, timing and creating a culture where people feel inspired to do their best. Visit Terry Daniel's website and purchase 'in-Rhythm: The Key To Purposeful Engagement' on Amazon.
Chicago Tribune
21-04-2025
- Business
- Chicago Tribune
How to turn your debt into cash: The blueprint they don't want you to see
Content oversight and quality assurance provided by Studio 1847 A new resource aims to shift the narrative on personal debt and financial hardship, offering individuals a method to transform oppressive liabilities into opportunities for gain. Jim Winner, founder of has announced the release of his Ultimate Debt-Hacking Blueprint, a detailed, step-by-step guide that draws from tested consumer protection principles to show readers legal ways to make money from debt. Instead of relying on superficial quick fixes or questionable schemes, this blueprint presents a systematic approach rooted in proven techniques, thorough research and real-world experience. Winner is best known for his project Just Us Bridge, which was awarded several million-dollar grants for its work providing free legal information to those in need. The Ultimate Debt-Hacking Blueprint distinguishes itself from conventional financial advice by openly stating what it is not. It is not a get-rich-quick plan that promises vast sums without effort. It is not credit repair, debt consolidation or any form of illicit trickery. Instead, it is a carefully constructed methodology that relies on consumer protection laws training and a sound understanding of civil procedure. By following the instructions outlined in the blueprint, Winner says individuals can potentially identify ways to reclaim money and assert their rights against creditors, debt collectors and other financial entities that may have taken advantage of their lack of knowledge. Years ago, Winner found himself in an extremely difficult situation, facing a prolonged custody dispute in Chicago without the financial means to retain legal counsel. To protect his rights and navigate an unfamiliar legal landscape, he immersed himself in learning civil procedure and statutory protections. Along this journey, he encountered repeated references to a handful of consumer protection statutes. As he applied these laws to his own financial troubles, he began to see patterns emerge and recognized the potential to turn around a burdensome debt situation. Over time, Winner discovered that certain consumer protection laws could be combined strategically to create favorable outcomes against parties who failed to follow established rules and regulations. This revelation led him to formulate what he now terms 'debt hacking for financial freedom.' By applying and integrating these laws, he found ways to reveal creditor violations, leverage procedural errors and negotiate from a position of strength. It required an understanding of the rules, persistence, a willingness to research and adherence to a system that he refined through countless trials. The Ultimate Debt-Hacking Blueprint details each step of this system, offering readers insight into a different mindset and approach. 'This is about fighting debt collectors legally by using the very consumer protection mechanisms designed to safeguard individuals,' Winner says. The emphasis is on understanding one's rights and turning them into a practical advantage. Readers of the blueprint will find that it does not guarantee large sums of money. In fact, Winner readily admits that outcomes vary widely and are heavily dependent on the user's commitment and willingness to learn. Some individuals may achieve modest gains, while others may see no benefit at all. The blueprint sets realistic expectations and encourages diligent participation rather than promising effortless rewards. This resource is built around concrete legal frameworks rather than speculation. It is not a gamble on unverified theories, nor does it involve operating outside of established rules. Instead, it draws on recognized consumer protection statutes that can be applied when creditors violate regulations. The program aims to simplify these laws so readers can understand their practical implications. According to Winner, the importance of this blueprint lies in its ability to show people another path. He notes that many consumers feel powerless when dealing with large financial entities. The conventional wisdom often suggests that people must either struggle with their debt quietly, pay for costly representation or resort to superficial fixes that do not address underlying problems. By illuminating a different route, Winner hopes to inspire confidence and agency. He acknowledges that the process can be challenging but believes that knowledge and strategic thinking can shift the balance of power. 'People deserve to know that there are legal ways to make money from debt when creditors fail to follow the rules,' says Winner, founder of 'This blueprint does not promise unrealistic outcomes, nor does it rely on questionable tactics. Instead, it rests on the principle that an informed individual who understands how consumer protection laws actually work can level the playing field. It is about showing that ordinary citizens can hold creditors accountable, and in some cases, receive compensation for violations that might otherwise go unnoticed.' The Ultimate Debt-Hacking Blueprint underscores the value of learning the system thoroughly. It requires patience and the willingness to recognize that not every case will lead to a significant monetary gain. The core lesson is that with the right information, ordinary people can identify critical details that would otherwise remain hidden. By understanding their rights and learning how to properly document and present their positions, readers can transform what once felt like an insurmountable financial burden into an informed negotiation. This process moves beyond traditional notions of simply escaping debt as long as the established legal guidelines are respected. This is a narrative of perseverance and discovery, one that began with a personal struggle in a courtroom and expanded into a comprehensive teaching tool. While the system is not legal advice, it provides readers with a transparent account of what worked for Winner. It gives them the chance to consider strategies they likely never encountered and shift their perspective on debt from an inevitable loss to a set of opportunities that, under the right conditions, can yield tangible results. Winner also recently released the book 'How To Get What They Owe You,' which also covers financial related issues and is the driving force behind
Chicago Tribune
16-04-2025
- Business
- Chicago Tribune
Navigating entrepreneurship in uncertain times: Mosongo Moukwa's blueprint for small business success
Content oversight and quality assurance provided by Studio 1847 In today's unpredictable economic climate, entrepreneurship gives hope to those seeking financial independence and control over their futures. Small businesses form the backbone of the U.S. economy, accounting for 99.9% of all companies. However, the path to success is filled with obstacles. Nearly 21% of new businesses fail within the first year, and 65% have shut their doors by the tenth year. Despite these odds, Mosongo Moukwa offers a strategic approach that transforms uncertainty into opportunity. The reality of small business survival With over 34.8 million small businesses in the U.S., competition is fierce. Entrepreneurs face many hurdles, including limited market demand, cash flow problems and operational inefficiencies. Statistics show that 42% of small businesses fail due to insufficient market demand, while 80% cite cash flow challenges as their primary struggle. Many business owners also become overwhelmed with daily operations, leading to burnout and a loss of strategic vision. Mosongo Moukwa: A guiding light for entrepreneurs Mosongo Moukwa is a transformational executive coach and best-selling author with over two decades of corporate leadership and entrepreneurial experience. His coaching aims to help small business owners regain their passion, reconnect with their purpose and achieve financial stability without sacrificing personal fulfillment. Through his 'Profit Clarity Method,' he provides a structured approach to unlocking six-figure revenue growth while restoring balance to business owners' lives. His ideal clients are small business owners in the manufacturing or physical products sectors who generate between $500,000 and $2 million in annual revenue. Many of these entrepreneurs feel stuck, unsure how to scale their businesses sustainably while maintaining a fulfilling personal life. Mosongo helps them bridge this gap by combining strategic clarity with deep emotional and spiritual insights. Transforming challenges into opportunities Mosongo's 'Profit Clarity Method' focuses on three key areas: strategic alignment, financial empowerment and operational efficiency. Mosongo reports that his approach has already helped businesses achieve remarkable results: A manufacturing company increased revenues by 14%, boosted gross profit by 13.5%, and saw net profits rise by 18.6% annually. An e-commerce business reduced operating costs to 9.9% of revenues, nearly half the industry average. By addressing core challenges, Mosongo empowers business owners to move past stagnation and build a sustainable future. Aligning business strategy with personal vision According to Mosongo's blueprint, entrepreneurs often fall into one of three categories: The Growth-Seeker: A business owner eager to expand but struggling with operational complexity and time management. Mosongo helps companies scale sustainably while reclaiming time for higher-level decision-making. The Passion-Refurbisher: An entrepreneur who has lost enthusiasm and needs to reconnect with their original vision. Through Mosongo's guidance, they reignite their passion and regain motivation. The Legacy Builder: A seasoned business owner looking to solidify their legacy and achieve long-term financial independence. Mosongo provides strategies to maintain profitability while improving work-life balance. The competitive edge: A holistic approach to success While many business coaches focus solely on strategy, Mosongo stands apart by integrating emotional and spiritual alignment into his coaching. Unlike generic business consultants who offer one-size-fits-all solutions, he provides tailored guidance based on personal and professional aspirations. This unique combination helps entrepreneurs unlock hidden growth potential while maintaining their well-being. Implementing Mosongo's strategy for lasting impact To effectively establish a strong brand foundation, businesses must: Clarify their unique value proposition Mosongo helps entrepreneurs refine their messaging to emphasize the intersection of strategic clarity and personal fulfillment. Develop engaging content By publishing insightful articles and case studies, businesses can showcase their transformation-driven journey.. Leverage strategic promotion Targeted campaigns using social media, press releases, and email marketing drive traffic to Mosongo's flagship content, 'The Revenue Revolution,' a free downloadable guide that introduces key revenue growth strategies. Success stories: Real-world impact According to Mosongo, business owners who have implemented his strategies have experienced tangible success. For example, he shares that a struggling manufacturing firm saw a 30% increase in profitability within a year. Meanwhile, an e-commerce business streamlined its operations, cutting costs by 25% while reigniting the leadership team's enthusiasm. Seizing the opportunity with expert guidance Economic uncertainty presents challenges but also creates opportunities for those who take proactive steps toward growth. Mosongo Moukwa offers his guidance to entrepreneurs so they can navigate obstacles, gain clarity and build businesses that not only survive but also thrive. His approach is designed to ensure that small business owners achieve sustainable financial success while aligning their professional ambitions with personal fulfillment.
Chicago Tribune
02-04-2025
- Health
- Chicago Tribune
Hair transplant in Turkey: Why it's a global hub for hair restoration
Content oversight and quality assurance provided by Studio 1847 In recent years, hair transplant in Turkey has become a booming trend in medical tourism. Thousands of people from around the world are traveling to cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir to undergo affordable, high-quality hair restoration procedures. But what makes Turkey such a sought-after destination for hair transplants? This comprehensive guide explores the reasons behind the country's popularity, what to expect during the process and how to choose the right clinic for your needs. As with any medical procedure, there are risks. That's why it's best to educate yourself and consult with your doctor to see if hair transplants are right for you. Why is Turkey famous for hair transplants? Turkey has earned a solid reputation as a global leader in hair transplant surgery. This is due to a combination of factors, including experienced surgeons, advanced techniques, affordable prices and comprehensive treatment packages. 1. Expert surgeons with global experience Turkish hair transplant surgeons are among the most skilled in the world. Many of them have trained internationally and bring years of experience to the table. They specialize in the latest techniques such as FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and DHI (Direct Hair Implantation), which ensure natural-looking results with minimal scarring. 2. State-of-the-art clinics Hair transplant clinics in Turkey are equipped with modern technology and adhere to international medical standards. Top-rated clinics offer sterile environments, modern equipment and multilingual staff to ensure a smooth experience for international patients. 3. Affordable prices without compromising quality One of the biggest draws is the cost advantage. In the U.K., U.S. or Europe, hair transplants can cost anywhere between $8,000 to $20,000. In Turkey, however, the same procedure ranges from $2,000 to $4,000. This cost includes consultation, surgery, accommodation, transportation and aftercare — making it a complete package. 4. All-inclusive medical tourism packages Many Turkish clinics offer all-inclusive hair transplant packages. These usually cover airport transfers, hotel accommodation, translator services, pre-op tests, post-op medications and even sightseeing options. This convenience can make it easier for international patients to travel stress-free. Types of hair transplant procedures available in turkey When considering a hair transplant in Turkey, it's important to understand the different techniques offered. Here are the most common ones: FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) This is the most popular method. Hair follicles are individually extracted from the donor area (usually the back of the head) and implanted into the thinning or bald areas. FUE is minimally invasive, leaves tiny scars that fade over time and offers quick recovery. DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) DHI is a variation of FUE where a specialized pen-like tool implants the follicles directly into the scalp. This method gives surgeons more control over the angle and direction of the implants, leading to more natural results. Sapphire FUE A refined version of FUE, this method uses sapphire blades for incisions instead of steel. Sapphire blades cause less tissue trauma, reduce scabbing and promote faster healing. What to expect during the hair transplant journey Planning a hair transplant in Turkey is a streamlined process. Here's a general timeline of what to expect: Consultation Most clinics offer free online consultations. You'll be asked to send photos of your scalp and answer some health questions. Based on this, the surgeon will recommend the most suitable technique and give you a personalized quote. Arrival and preparation Once you agree to proceed, the clinic will help you book your flights and accommodations. Upon arrival, you'll be picked up from the airport and taken to your hotel. Pre-surgery tests are conducted to ensure you're fit for the procedure. The surgery The hair transplant usually takes six to eight hours, depending on the number of grafts. It's done under local anesthesia, so you'll be awake but pain-free during the procedure. Post-op and recovery After the surgery, you'll receive instructions on aftercare. Swelling, redness and mild discomfort are normal for the first few days. Most patients can resume normal activities within a week. Full results typically appear within nine to 12 months. Choosing the right hair transplant clinic in Turkey With hundreds of clinics to choose from, selecting the right one is crucial. Here are some tips to ensure you make a safe and informed choice: Check the surgeon's credentials Look for clinics where the surgery is performed by a certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist, not technicians. Read reviews, ask for before-and-after photos and verify the surgeon's experience in the procedure you're considering. Look for certifications and accreditation Choose clinics that are Ministry of Health-approved and have international accreditations such as Joint Commission International. This ensures that the facility adheres to high standards of hygiene and patient safety. Transparent Pricing and Inclusions Avoid clinics with vague pricing. Reputable clinics will offer a detailed breakdown of what's included in the package. Be wary of extremely cheap offers — they may compromise on quality or aftercare. Read reviews and testimonials Use online review platforms or independent hair transplant forums to read real patient testimonials. This will give you a clearer idea of what to expect. Is a hair transplant in Turkey safe? When performed at a reputable clinic, a hair transplant in Turkey is safe and effective. The country's medical tourism industry is well regulated, and the best clinics adhere to strict standards. However, like any surgical procedure, it's essential to do thorough research and choose a qualified provider. See if hair transplants are right for you Choosing to get a hair transplant in Turkey can be a life-changing decision – not just for your appearance but also for your confidence. With experienced surgeons, cutting-edge technology and affordable packages, Turkey has earned its spot as a global leader in hair restoration. Whether you're battling male pattern baldness, thinning hair or a receding hairline, Turkey offers top-tier solutions with world-class hospitality. Just be sure to do your homework, compare clinics and make your choice based on quality, not just price. If you're considering getting hair transplants, always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider before moving ahead.
