Sam Altman acknowledged that OpenAI had a provision about equity cancellation in exit documents but stated that the policy will be removed going forward.

Bank of America offers a variety of credit cards requiring at least a 'good' credit score, defined by FICO as 670 and above. Specific cards, like the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card, offer robust rewards and may require higher scores. Applicants must be U.S. residents and of a certain age, with additional requirements for Puerto Rico residents. Bank of America has a two/three/four rule for card approvals within certain time frames. Denied applicants receive an explanation and can request reconsideration. Improving credit scores for future applications involves timely payments and debt reduction. The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card helps build credit history with no annual fee and a minimum $200 security deposit, despite a high APR. Bank of America reports to major credit bureaus, aiding in establishing credit history.

Austen Chu, cofounder of Wristcheck, transformed his passion for luxury watches into a successful resale business. Starting with an Instagram fan page, Chu expanded into a consignment-based company that has consigned over $80 million in watches since its 2020 launch. Wristcheck opened a physical store in Hong Kong in 2021 and raised $8 million in funding led by Gobi Partners in November 2022. The company plans to launch an app and improve its AI for pricing tools, aiming to make the buying and selling process transparent and trustworthy.

Sachin Saxena, a former ship captain from Singapore, shares his personal experiences and insights on handling crises aboard sea-faring ships similar to the Dali. The narrative is based on his 13 years of experience in maritime operations.

Pluri, a company specializing in cell therapy and cultivated meat, is developing cell-based coffee by growing coffee plant cells in a bioreactor. The cells are fed salts and vitamins, producing secondary metabolites like caffeine, and the resulting biomass is dried and roasted to resemble ground coffee. Paris-based Stem and California Cultured are also working on similar technologies, with Stem adding natural flavors from coffee byproducts and California Cultured applying the technology to both coffee and cocoa beans. Pluri is now focusing on scaling up production and seeking regulatory approvals.

Bernadine Swale, a 68-year-old retiree from Denver, has transformed her life by becoming a housesitter, traveling the world, and living in other people's homes for free. She rents out her own house on Airbnb, earning up to $77,000 a year. Swale has housesat in various countries, including Botswana, Japan, and New Zealand. She uses Trusted Housesitters to find places to stay and advises others to be aware of visa requirements. Swale's lifestyle change came after her divorce and retirement from a pharmacy job. She enjoys the freedom and experiences that housesitting offers, despite occasional challenges such as pet emergencies. Swale has made friends through her housesitting adventures and cherishes the independence and opportunities her new life provides.

The Dorsal Effect, an eco-enterprise founded by Kathy Xu, collaborates with former shark fishermen on Lombok, Indonesia, to educate students about marine conservation through snorkeling trips, coral health checks, and beach cleanups. The initiative provides an alternative income for ex-shark fishermen and aims to halt the shark finning trade. The program includes educational activities for schoolchildren and university students, highlighting the realities of the shark trade and promoting environmental awareness. Despite challenges like volcanic eruptions and the COVID-19 pandemic, The Dorsal Effect continues to thrive, emphasizing the importance of sustainable livelihoods in conservation efforts.

Harrison Granger, a 23-year-old customer service representative, moved from Maidstone, Kent, to Dubai with his partner to advance their careers. They appreciate the lifestyle, work-life balance, and conveniences in Dubai, despite initial challenges in job hunting and finding accommodation. They enjoy the amenities and safety of their new home, though they miss family and the greenery of Kent. They plan to stay in Dubai for at least two years.

A couple from the UK moved to Dubai and found life there to be safer and easier. They faced initial challenges securing jobs and finding an apartment but eventually settled in Dubai Production City. They appreciate the higher earnings, better work-life balance, and modern amenities. Everyday conveniences like gas delivery and food apps enhance their experience. Despite missing family and the greenery of Kent, they plan to stay in Dubai for at least two years.

Suhardi, a former shark fisherman from Lombok, Indonesia, now works with The Dorsal Effect, an ecotourism company that helps ex-shark hunters transition to sustainable careers. The company, founded by Singaporean ecologist Kathy Xu, offers snorkeling trips and educational programs to tourists and students, highlighting the importance of marine conservation. The initiative has faced challenges such as natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic but continues to thrive by providing legal and profitable alternatives to shark fishing. The program also aims to influence younger generations by involving schools like ISS International School in hands-on conservation activities.

Laura and John Lewis built three luxury treehouses on their Welsh farm, overcoming challenges such as planning permissions, weather conditions, and the pandemic. Their first treehouse, Trawscwm, was a success, leading them to build two more, including Cadwollen and a family-oriented treehouse. They launched a website, ToWander UK, to manage bookings and expanded their business to include other holiday homes. Their treehouses gained popularity through social media, and they now host weddings and have a team to help manage operations. They plan to build a fourth treehouse aimed at couples next summer.

Jamie Inlow, founder of Be Still Getaways, recounts her journey from working at Appalachian State University to managing over 100 properties through her Airbnb business. Starting with a neighbor's sheep barn in Scottsville, Virginia, she expanded her portfolio by leveraging social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Instagram, and by partnering with a local real estate agent. Inlow emphasizes the importance of aesthetics, amenities like hot tubs, and the use of management and pricing software to maximize bookings. Despite challenges like zoning regulations, her business has grown to include a team of seven employees and 50 contractors, with a revenue of $300,000 in the first half of 2022.

New moms in Singapore are opting for luxury retreats costing over $21,000 for postpartum recovery. These retreats, such as Kai Singapore and Momley Loft, offer amenities like nutritious meals, massages, and professional baby care. The concept, rooted in traditional Chinese postpartum confinement practices, aims to help mothers recuperate and bond with their babies. Experts highlight the importance of community and support during this period, with some concerns about transitioning back home. The retreats are praised for their comprehensive care and supportive environments.

Sachin Saxena, a former ship captain, shares insights on the complexities of navigating large vessels like the MV Dali, particularly during port entry and exit. He discusses the challenges faced during emergencies such as power failures and the protocols in place to prevent incidents like the recent collision with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. Saxena emphasizes the importance of thorough planning and maintenance, and the role of internal audits in ensuring safety. He reflects on the pressures faced by captains and the lessons that can be learned to prevent future accidents.

In 2016, Eve and Fabrice Ivara left their careers in France to embark on an adventure that led them to build a luxury resort, Cap Karoso, on Sumba Island, Indonesia. Initially planning a modest hotel, they shifted to a luxury model to ensure profitability. They faced numerous challenges, including securing financing and navigating local customs, but successfully opened the resort in March 2023. The resort has garnered international attention, and the Ivaras now split their time between Sumba and Singapore, enjoying their new roles as hoteliers.

TurtleTree, a $40-million Californian startup, is pioneering lab-grown dairy as a sustainable alternative to traditional milk production. By using mammary cells from cow's milk, TurtleTree aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and resource usage. The company, founded by Fengru Lin and Max Rye, is also developing lactoferrin for baby food and animal care. Other companies like Opalia and Perfect Day are also making strides in the cell-based milk industry, with significant investments and support from various organizations. The article discusses the environmental benefits, market potential, and challenges of lab-grown dairy.

Credit card limits vary significantly, with average limits around $5,049, but lower for cards designed for low-income individuals. Credit card companies determine limits based on income, credit history, and other factors. Users can request a credit limit increase if they have a good payment history and increased income. It's advisable to check credit scores and correct errors before making a request. Some companies, like American Express, recommend waiting six months before requesting an increase. Automatic increases may occur based on account usage. If denied, users should wait six months before reapplying and can use services like Experian Boost to improve their credit scores. Alternatively, users can consider transferring credit between cards or applying for new cards with better terms.

Elise Wortley, inspired by historical female explorers, has embarked on a series of expeditions to recreate their journeys. Her adventures include trekking through the Himalayas following Alexandra David-Néel, exploring the Scottish Highlands inspired by Nan Shepherd, and traversing the Valley of the Assassins in Iran in the footsteps of Freya Stark. Wortley meticulously replicates the conditions and attire of these explorers, often using period-specific gear. Her projects have garnered support from brands like Intrepid Travel and The North Face. Wortley aims to inspire others by sharing the stories of these pioneering women, with future plans including biking across Sri Lanka and sailing the Irish Sea.

Jamie Inlow, founder of Be Still Getaways, shares her journey of establishing a successful Airbnb business in Scottsville, Virginia. Starting with a unique opportunity to renovate a neighbor's barn, she expanded her portfolio through strategic partnerships and effective use of social media. Key strategies include adding amenities like hot tubs to increase bookings and using management software for efficiency. Despite challenges, including regulatory changes, Inlow's business has grown to manage 133 properties with a diverse range of offerings, supported by a dedicated team and innovative marketing techniques.

Sachin Saxena, a former ship captain, shares insights on the complexities of navigating large ships in and out of ports, emphasizing the challenges and protocols involved. Reflecting on the MV Dali incident in Baltimore, he explains the procedures and safety measures that should be in place to prevent such accidents. Saxena also discusses the role of internal audits and the importance of maintenance and emergency protocols in maritime operations.

Picnics have evolved from simple outdoor meals to luxurious, catered events, driven by companies like the Luxury Picnic Company in London and Rhode Island Luxury Picnics. Entrepreneurs such as Jane Gillespie and Kelly McPhillips offer personalized and elaborate picnic experiences, catering to high-profile clients and everyday couples alike. The trend has gained popularity, especially among Generation Z, who prefer unique and memorable outdoor dining experiences. Historical context reveals picnics' transformation from aristocratic indoor feasts to modern-day outdoor gatherings, with a renewed focus on convenience and creativity. The resurgence of picnics during the Covid-19 pandemic reflects a nostalgic desire for simpler, tranquil times.

A couple transitioned from living in Miami to a tiny home in a Georgia forest, finding happiness and sustainability. They built their home from a lofted cabin shell and later expanded their property to include multiple tiny homes, a yurt, domes, a bell tent, and a renovated bus, which they rent out on Airbnb. They also founded the United Tiny House Association, which has a significant following and hosts events. Their lifestyle emphasizes simplicity, sustainability, and community, attracting guests from various locations.

In 2016, Eve and Fabrice Ivara left their careers in France to embark on an adventure that led them to build a luxury resort, Cap Karoso, on Sumba Island, Indonesia. Initially planning a modest hotel, they shifted to a luxury model to ensure profitability. They faced numerous challenges, including securing financing, navigating local customs, and dealing with construction delays exacerbated by the pandemic. Despite these hurdles, they successfully opened the resort, which has garnered international attention. The couple now splits their time between Sumba and Singapore, enjoying their roles as hoteliers.

In 1999, financier Michael Maxwell purchased a piece of land with a café and four holiday cabins on Lord Howe Island, Australia, after seeing an ad in a newspaper. He and his son Timmy Maxwell, who shared a fondness for the island, decided to make it their permanent residence in 2013 and began renovating the property. They faced challenges such as strict building permits and logistical issues with material deliveries. The Maxwells focused on sustainable development, using solar energy and rainwater, and aligned the villas to offer views of the jungle. They sourced furniture from Denmark and worked with indigenous Australian artists. The property, named Island House, opened in October 2020 with actor Chris Hemsworth as their first guest, which helped in marketing the venture. Island House offers a membership program and is available for rent, with the Maxwells aiming to grow their clientele.

Fran Cassaniti from Buenos Aires and Marco Ilagan from Chicago have been traveling the world since 2018 without paying for flights or rent by house-sitting and using credit card points. They started their journey after quitting their jobs and have since taken care of 25 houses in various countries, including the USA, Europe, and Central America. They run a life-coaching business called Map The Unknown and use tools like TrustedHousesitters and Calendly to manage their lifestyle. Despite challenges during the pandemic, they continue to travel and plan their stays around their personal and business goals.

Eve and Fabrice Ivara transformed a plot of land on the island of Sumba into Cap Karoso, a luxurious four-level resort with suites and villas priced between $250 and $1,100 per night. The couple, inspired by their travels and a desire to create a sustainable and unique destination, faced numerous challenges, including construction difficulties and the COVID-19 pandemic. They successfully secured funding, collaborated with local artisans, and integrated Sumbanese cultural elements into the resort's design. The resort officially opened on March 20, attracting interest from Asian and European publications and offering guests an off-the-beaten-track experience.

A couple, Ilagan and Cassaniti, quit their corporate jobs in 2018 to travel the world through house-sitting gigs, using platforms like TrustedHousesitters. They have house-sat in various countries, including the Philippines, Hawaii, and Grenada, and have not paid for flights since 2018 by using credit card points. They run a life-coaching business called 'Map The Unknown' and have created a structured daily routine. Despite challenges like the pandemic and occasional pet emergencies, they continue to enjoy their nomadic lifestyle, planning their travels around personal and business goals.

A study in Bali has demonstrated that changing irrigation methods in rice paddies can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70% and increase crop yields by over 20%. The research, led by scientists from the Balai Pengkajian Teknologi Pertanian Bali and the Santa Fe Institute, involved draining fields intermittently rather than keeping them flooded. This method reduced methane emissions and kept fertilizers in the soil, boosting yields. The pilot project, funded by Quantum Temple, has gained traction among local farmers, with plans for nationwide adoption. The study's findings will be presented at COP28 in the UAE.

Timmy and Michael Maxwell transformed their holiday huts on Lord Howe Island into two luxurious vacation homes, now known as Island House, which rent for $6,200 a night. Despite challenges, including rigorous planning applications and logistical issues, they successfully built sustainable villas that blend into the landscape. Chris Hemsworth was their first guest, providing a significant marketing boost. The property is marketed through Instagram and offers a membership program for regular guests.

Indonesia is leveraging Web3 and NFTs to preserve its cultural heritage and support its tourism industry, which was severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. The initiative, involving local artisans and the Ministry of Tourism, aims to create a sustainable income for artists by selling digital assets that capture cultural artifacts and experiences. The project has shown promising results, with significant sales and positive community impact, and aims to promote conscious travel and cultural preservation.

A former Navy Seal, who has been awarded for bravery in Iraq and Afghanistan, now provides security services for wealthy families on vacation through the Servius Group. The company, co-founded in 2020, employs former Special Forces members to ensure the safety of clients during their travels. Services include route planning, local security checks, and cyber protection. The team integrates seamlessly with the clients, often appearing as family members. The company has partnered with luxury travel advisor Embark Beyond to support VIP guests. Popular destinations include Monaco, French Polynesia, and South Africa, with services extending to safaris, diving, and even trips to the South Pole.

Nenad Popovic, a butler on the six-star luxury cruise Scenic Eclipse, shares his experiences working on the ship that sails to destinations like the Arctic and Antarctica. He describes his journey from a waiter in Serbia to becoming a cruise butler, detailing the training and promotions he underwent. Popovic highlights the luxurious amenities of the Scenic Eclipse, including five restaurants, helicopter pads, and a submarine. He provides 24/7 butler service to guests, organizing excursions and ensuring their comfort. His most memorable moments include witnessing whales in Antarctica and diving in the Arctic submarine. Popovic finds his greatest reward in creating lasting memories for guests.

Yusri Abu Bakar, a former Singapore Air Force pilot now flying Emirates' A380, shares tips for comfortable long-haul flights. He advises syncing with the destination's time zone, being considerate to flight crew, stretching regularly, eating light, staying hydrated, entertaining children with a schedule, and packing noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask. Comfortable clothing and listening to relaxing music or audiobooks can also help with sleep.

Business travel has become more exhausting post-COVID-19, with professionals like Gordon Simmons and Kenneth Anderson finding the return to frequent travel challenging. Factors such as cognitive overload, additional travel uncertainties, and the need to re-establish in-person connections contribute to this fatigue. Experts like Dr. Marie-Helene Pelletier suggest strategies to manage stress, including pre-travel preparations and maintaining energy levels. Companies are now more strategic about travel, balancing virtual and in-person meetings based on necessity and cost. The airline industry, still recovering from disruptions, faces capacity issues, adding to travelers' stress.

A full-time emergency-room nurse turned her study notes into a $2 million business by leveraging TikTok and Etsy. Starting with handwritten notes, she expanded her offerings to include merchandise like sweatshirts and stickers, and collaborated with brands such as Heart + Sounds Solutions. She also launched an Amazon storefront and plans to create her own website. Her business, RNExplained, has seen significant growth, and she enjoys the positive impact on her community of nursing students.

The article discusses the concept of 'work gyms,' online platforms where individuals join structured work sessions to enhance productivity while working remotely. Companies like Ultraworking, Caveday, Focusmate, and Momentum Mornings offer services where members work in timed sprints, often using the Pomodoro technique, and maintain accountability by keeping their cameras on. The article explores the psychological benefits of this approach, such as the focus on monotasking and entering a 'flow state.' The author, Claire Turrell, shares her personal experience with Ultraworking, noting the increased focus and sense of community. The piece also includes insights from psychologists and business experts on the effectiveness of work gyms and alternative strategies for achieving productivity.

SoLo Funds, a fintech marketplace for peer-to-peer lending, was co-founded by Rodney Williams and Travis Holoway to address the need for emergency funds for those on tight budgets. The platform allows users to borrow up to $1,000 with the option to tip the lender and SoLo Funds. Launched in 2017, the company has raised $1.2 million in a pre-seed round and $10 million in a Series A round by February 2021, with investors including ACME Capital and Impact America. SoLo Funds, now a registered B Corp with over 100 employees, has won several awards, including the Visa Everywhere Initiative award.

Erin McKee, a former nurse, shares her experience of quitting her job to become a house-sitter, allowing her to live rent-free in various locations including Los Angeles, Portugal, and Costa Rica. She and her boyfriend Solomon bonded over their love of travel, which inspired their new lifestyle.

Austen Chu, cofounder of Wristcheck, turned his passion for watches into a successful luxury reselling business. Starting with an Instagram page, he built a community and launched Wristcheck in 2020. The company, based in Hong Kong, has consigned over $80 million in watches and raised $8 million in funding led by Gobi Partners. Chu's journey includes collaborations with brands like Audemars Piguet and the opening of a brick-and-mortar store to build customer trust. The funds will be used to launch an app and improve AI tools for pricing and authentication.

A former teacher transitioned to owning a Frios gourmet ice-pop franchise, significantly increasing her annual income by $150,000 while working fewer hours. She leveraged her savings to buy the franchise territory, utilized social media for marketing, and expanded her business to include multiple territories and events. The business thrived even during the pandemic by adapting to neighborhood deliveries. The family-run business now includes multiple stores and a strong presence at events, with significant contributions from her family members.

A couple, Michels and Danielle Gross, have found a way to travel and stay in luxurious homes for free by house-sitting through the TrustedHousesitters app. They initially traveled in a renovated school bus but turned to house-sitting for more stability. They have stayed in various homes across the United States, looking after pets while enjoying amenities like pools and private movie theaters. Their experiences have allowed them to travel at a slower pace and consider settling down in a permanent home.

The article details the journey of a solo founder who successfully got into Y Combinator (YC) on her second attempt and raised $4.5 million in investment. Initially lacking exposure to the tech world, she found YC to be a valuable network that provided the necessary resources and mentorship. The application process involved an online form, a short video, and a 10-minute Zoom interview. During the virtual YC program, she balanced running her business with attending online talks and connecting with mentors. The experience culminated in a Demo Day presentation, leading to significant fundraising. The founder emphasizes the importance of networking in the tech and startup world.

Di Ciacca, a former corporate lawyer, revitalized the abandoned Italian village of Picinisco, transforming it into a tourist destination with a vineyard, winery, and hotel. The project involved extensive renovations, community engagement, and sustainable practices. The family now runs a successful business, producing award-winning wines and olive oil, and hosting various events. Despite challenges, including Brexit and wildlife threats, the Di Ciacca family continues to expand their offerings and attract visitors, contributing to the local economy and preserving the village's heritage.

A former firefighter turned full-time Airbnb owner shares his journey of expanding from managing a single property to owning five rental properties in tourist destinations. He emphasizes the importance of guest experience, strategic investments, and leveraging technology to streamline operations. Despite challenges like property damage, he highlights the benefits of professional photography and maintaining a strong presence on Airbnb. His story underscores the potential profitability and flexibility of real estate investment through short-term rentals.

Dahlia Melnick, an 18-year-old babysitter, shares her experiences working for families vacationing in the Hamptons. She charges $25 to $45 per hour and caters to up to three children, taking a 25% service fee through Teen Hamptons. Melnick describes her daily routine, which includes beach trips and managing children's activities, and contrasts it with her previous job as a restaurant hostess. She emphasizes the importance of being alert and engaged while babysitting, despite the common misconception that it's an easy job. Melnick also enjoys the social life in the Hamptons when not working.

Sarah Huff generates an average monthly income of $5,000 by renting out baby gear such as cribs, strollers, and toys to traveling families in Los Angeles through BabyQuip. She became a provider after a positive personal experience with the company in Santa Fe. Despite now working at BabyQuip's corporate office, she continues to run her rental business, which has allowed her and her husband to purchase their first home. Huff's story highlights the flexibility and financial benefits of her side gig.

A group of seven friends bought Walton & Hersham FC in 2019 to save it from folding. They invested their savings, took on the club's liabilities, and managed its operations, excluding on-pitch activities. Despite initial skepticism, they gained fan support and navigated financial challenges, including a near-zero bank balance. They leveraged social media, particularly TikTok, to grow the club's following and secured sponsorships. The club achieved promotions in 2021 and 2022, attracting record crowds. They continue to invest in the club's infrastructure and aim to expand their merchandise sales internationally.

A couple, Hautamäki and Selkimäki, purchased a private island in Finland's Archipelago National Park using Google Maps and transformed it into an off-the-grid luxury cabin rental, costing 1 million euros. They designed the cabin to blend with the natural landscape, using materials like thermal pine and peat for insulation. The project, named Project Ö, includes a main cabin, guest house, outdoor kitchen, and sauna. They rent the island for $1,800 to $2,400 a night and have attracted guests from around the world. The couple is considering a career in off-the-grid hoteling due to the project's success.

Two sisters, Oana and Jasmin, transformed a neglected neoclassical mansion in Syros, Greece, into the luxury Aristide Hotel. Despite financial constraints and unexpected renovation costs, they successfully opened the hotel in 2020. The project was funded through personal savings, a mortgage, and an EU development grant. The sisters balanced maintaining the building's historical integrity with modern design needs, ultimately creating a unique and sustainable business. Their efforts have been well-received by locals and guests alike, leading to high occupancy rates and further expansion plans.

Patrick Smith, a commercial airline pilot, shares his experiences and observations about the unprecedented chaos at airports due to staff shortages and operational disruptions. He highlights the impact of the pandemic on the aviation industry, including flight cancellations and delays, and the overburdened training departments for pilots. Despite the challenges, Smith remains passionate about flying and advises travelers to be patient and prepared for potential complications.

A successful Depop reseller recounts their journey from selling personal vintage items to opening a physical storefront in NYC, leveraging TikTok to grow their customer base. With a background in photography and media, the reseller initially worked part-time at Depop's retail space in New York City before deciding to focus on their own store, Rogue. Utilizing social media, particularly TikTok, they attracted a significant following, which translated into physical sales and the eventual opening of a brick-and-mortar shop. The store has hosted various events and pop-ups, attracting a diverse clientele, including celebrities like Post Malone. The business continues to expand with plans for a Rogue clothing line and a podcast.

A UK start-up, London Electric Cars, is converting classic cars to electric vehicles using upcycled Nissan Leaf and Tesla batteries. Founded by Matthew Quitter, the company aims to preserve the historical integrity of vintage cars while making them eco-friendly. The conversions, which can take up to six months and start at £25,000, offer financial benefits such as exemption from congestion fees and road tax. The company plans to make conversions more accessible by offering mail-order kits. Other companies, like Lunaz Design, also operate in this market, but London Electric Cars focuses on making conversions available to a broader audience.

The Reef Company, supported by IBM and Microsoft, aims to construct 2500 artificial reefs over the next decade to combat climate change by restoring coral reef ecosystems. The company plans to deploy its first reefs by December 2022 and is seeking additional corporate funding to assist in carbon footprint offsetting.

The article discusses the severe lifeguard shortage faced by YMCA pools in Florida, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Efforts to attract new lifeguards include covering certification fees and increasing wages. Despite these measures, pool hours have been reduced, and swimming lessons are limited, impacting community safety and swim education. The community, including retirees, has stepped up to help, but challenges remain, especially during peak season. The article emphasizes the importance of swimming skills in Florida's beach-rich environment and the ongoing efforts to recruit and train new lifeguards.

Patrick Smith, a commercial-airline pilot with 30 years of experience, describes the current travel chaos as the worst he's ever seen, with unprecedented lines at airports and a staffing issue across the industry. Airlines have been canceling flights and reducing schedules to manage the situation. Smith notes that the airline-training department is backlogged, making it difficult to retrain pilots quickly. Despite the challenges, he remains passionate about flying and advises travelers to be patient.

Irma Go and her husband Art Thepsoparn discovered three dilapidated stilt houses on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok during a boat trip in 2015. Captivated by their beauty and history, they decided to purchase and preserve the properties, which were originally built in 1910. After a five-year renovation, they transformed the houses into a luxurious villa named Siri Sala, maintaining the spirit of the original structures. The villa, now featuring five bedrooms, a library, a game room, a saltwater pool, and a garden, is available for rent at 3600 euros per night. The renovation project was inspired by Thai craftsmanship and aimed to respect the cultural heritage while adapting to modern living standards.

Rebecca Newenham, after an eight-year career break, chose not to return to the corporate world and became a virtual assistant, founding Get Ahead. She expanded her business into a franchise, now with 50 virtual assistants across the UK and Spain, and even sold a franchise in Australia. Newenham's business offers a range of services, including social media and Zoom-facilitation, and has adapted to the virtual shift during the pandemic. She emphasizes the importance of flexible working and enjoys empowering others through her brand.

Irma Go and Kirati Thepsoparn transformed three dilapidated floating homes in Bangkok into a luxurious five-bedroom waterfront villa named Siri Sala. The renovation, which took five years and cost three times the purchase price, preserved historical elements while making the property modern and livable. The villa, featuring a 65-foot saltwater pool and Thai herb garden, is now available for rent at $3,600 a night. The project involved meticulous efforts to maintain the original structure's spirit, including hiring craftsmen and documenting the process. The villa has been praised for its blend of luxury and historical preservation.

In 2019, Max Rye co-founded TurtleTree, a cell-based dairy company, after meeting his co-founder during a sustainability talk at Google Singapore. The company, which started with $500,000 in personal funds, has grown to 42 employees and raised $30 million in Series A funding led by Verso Capital. TurtleTree focuses on producing cell-based milk and lactoferrin, an immune-boosting protein, for baby-food brands. The company has navigated challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and aims to scale its operations with new manufacturing facilities in Singapore and the US. Key milestones include winning competitions and hiring talent from biotech firms.

Daniel Lubetzky, a 'Shark Tank' billionaire, emphasizes face-to-face communication in meetings, whether in person or virtually. He allocates his time using a percentage-based system managed by his assistants, ensuring a balance between his business ventures and personal life. Lubetzky values building personal connections during meetings and uses humor to diffuse tension. He encourages creativity and brainstorming, even if it means deviating from the agenda. However, he ensures meetings conclude with clear deliverables and responsibilities. His teams use tools like Asana and Slack for project management, though he prefers to give input during meetings or via email.

Matthew Mawtus, manager of the Michelin-starred London restaurant Hide, advises on proper etiquette to gain the favor of waitstaff in exclusive dining establishments. Tips include not changing tables without consulting the staff, deciding who will pay before the bill arrives, consulting a sommelier when choosing wine, addressing complaints directly to the manager rather than online, informing the restaurant of dietary restrictions in advance, and engaging with companions instead of using phones during the meal.