Business Daily

Julia Hartz, Co-founder and CEO of Eventbrite, shares her journey from television to transforming the ticketing industry. She discusses her vision behind launching a platform that has sold 272 million tickets to over 1.7 million events. Julia highlights the challenges of automated bots and dynamic pricing, and how Eventbrite fosters direct connections between creators and audiences. She also addresses the company’s navigation through economic changes and the importance of adapting to new ways of bringing people together.

Augusto Solano, the Head of the National Flower Exporters Association, sheds light on Colombia's rise as a top flower exporter. He discusses the recent tariffs scare from the U.S. and its swift resolution, revealing the industry's ongoing sustainability challenges. The podcast explores the vibrant cultivation practices and local community impacts while highlighting the logistics of flower exportation. Solano also touches on the shifting focus towards local flower production amidst environmental concerns, reflecting the industry's dynamic evolution.

In South Korea, a surge in unmanned stores reflects a response to a declining workforce. Retailers, from ice cream shops to bars, are embracing automation to tackle high staffing costs. This shift raises questions about job security amid worker protests. Younger generations favor self-service, challenging traditional business models. As trust in these staff-less systems grows, the future of retail in the country appears to be firmly rooted in technology and innovative strategies.

South Korea faces a critical labor shortage due to a low birth rate and depopulation. The nation may need 890,000 additional workers by 2032 to sustain economic growth. Public opinion on immigration is mixed, with challenges including discrimination and affordability issues for local families. The podcast highlights the need for a welcoming environment for international workers. It also explores how businesses are turning to automation amid this demographic crisis, making the future of workforce strategies a hot topic.

South Korea's birth rate has been in free fall for years, but recent figures show a surprising uptick. Experts delve into the paradox of a booming baby products market overshadowed by low birth rates. The intense pressure on women to juggle careers and motherhood is dissected, revealing personal challenges and inadequate support. Survey insights uncover growing hesitance around parenthood due to modern life's demands. We explore how historical policies shaped this crisis and the ambitious efforts to encourage families, hinting at a potential turnaround.

Explore Microsoft's fascinating 50-year journey, from a humble startup to a tech titan shaping the AI landscape. Discover the groundbreaking innovations emerging from its Seattle headquarters and how AI agents are revolutionizing productivity. The discussion also reveals the financial and environmental costs of AI, while reflecting on the company's complex legacy filled with both triumphs and controversies. Delve into how Microsoft is adapting to future challenges while striving to keep humanity at the heart of its technological advancements.

Boxing faced a tough time, but Saudi Arabia's hefty investments have revived the sport. With events like the Riyadh Season, major matchups are cropping up, attracting top athletes. However, this financial influx raises ethical questions about human rights and the implications of sports washing. The transformation of the boxing landscape invites scrutiny over the motivations behind these investments and how they shape future events. Fans are left to weigh the excitement of new competitions against the backdrop of geopolitical issues.

The Vatican Jubilee is expected to attract over 30 million pilgrims, but Rome's tourism figures are surprisingly down by 15%. Business leaders are adjusting accommodation rates to entice visitors, yet some faith-based tour companies see booming bookings. Local construction for the event is stirring controversy among residents due to disruptions. Despite hopes for increased tourism, smaller accommodations are struggling. The Jubilee tradition is evolving, with the Vatican aiming to engage younger pilgrims through innovative outreach.

Discover how Helsinki is emerging as a hub for defense technology, attracting global attention amidst rising geopolitical tensions. Explore the increasing interest from European military forces in innovative training programs and the growing influx of venture capital into the sector. Dive into Finland’s strategic investments of €120 million aimed at bolstering R&D for startups, while navigating challenges like funding and military bureaucracy. This exploration reveals Finland's unique position in shaping the future of defense.

Kelly Rickabus, a former franchisee of Anytime Fitness in Michigan, shares her journey through the pandemic's upheaval. She discusses the emotional toll of lockdowns and financial strain many small business owners faced. Kelly reflects on how she had to adapt her business strategies and the lessons learned from navigating government assistance. The conversation touches on the shifting landscape of personal behaviors, community responsibilities, and the unforeseen benefits that emerged during these challenging times.