“Every year, [toy companies] have to a) predict trends, b) invent them, and c) commit capital to them. All without knowing how the rest of the year will turn out. Since toy trends exist, but don’t last for very long, […]
The blog Marginal Revolution first introduced me to the idea of pooled testing a few months ago. They’re back on the topic with even more interesting detail. “The primary benefit of pooled testing is obvious. If 1% are infected and […]
“Using 2-week challenges, I finally began succeeding with habits and long-term goals.” I have not tried this yet but am sharing it to remind myself that I’ve been stagnant on habit-building for a while. | learn more
I learned of this from Annie Duke’s book Thinking in Bets (review coming eventually) then googled for more detail. The short version: when considering a decision, think about how you will feel about it in 10 minutes, 10 months and 10 years. | learn […]
Ranjan Roy calls this deal “an all-stock no-brainer,” thinks it’s brilliant, and also thinks it won’t pass regulatory approval. | learn more
Ben Thompson at Stratechery digs into the drama around TikTok, it’s Chinese ownership, and the implications for international relations. Meanwhile, as if to gain grassroots support in the US, the platform is giving away free advertising credits to US small businesses. | learn more
“A new paper argues that the computing demands of deep learning are so great that progress on tasks like translation and self-driving is likely to slow.” As with all predictions, I think it’s useful to consider the evidence and discount […]
“Outdoor dining has long been a popular pastime (weather allowing) in Chicago. The pandemic has made the practice more important than ever for Chicago’s bars and restaurants. This summer’s patio season looks a lot different from those prior. Especially with […]
“Jessica Nesbitt, who allegedly ran the business, is balking at giving prosecutors her customers’ names, given their “positions of prestige in the community.”” | learn more
The minimum bid is only $3 million for a whole bunch of land and 22 buildings that combine to 447,000 square feet of space. A live auction is happening August 18. Have any spare cash laying around? | learn more