fbpx
Connect with us

Lifestyle

Holiday Gift Guide 2019

Published

on

Holiday gift guide 2016 owners mag

holiday gift guide

It’s the little things that count. Gifts that come from the heart doesn’t always have to be huge in size. Check out these stocking stuffers! You might just find something for someone on that list of yours.

1. Notebook

books droodleThis mashup of notebooks and adult coloring books is designed to inspire creativity, reduce stress, and increase productivity. Made from recycled paper and including 20 unique designs, Droodle Books are great for the environment and your mind.

2. Cards

no-holds-cardPerfect for the little douche bag in all of us, give the gift of a No Holds Card, a card with a message that will make some giggle and offend others. Recently completing their Kickstarter campaign, they will be producing new cards that will be ready for a stocking near you.

3. Car Phone Mount

car mount aukeyEasily mount your phone for quick access in your car with the Aukey Air Vent Magnetic Phone Mount. You’ll never have to fumble around while driving again. The ultra-strong magnet holds your phone securely in place, so you can focus on the important things.

4. Unique Phone Case

society 6It’s the season for giving, so why not give back to an artist when purchasing a really cool phone case? For every Society6 purchase, part of the proceeds goes to the artist. Support independent artists while gifting iPhone cases with unique artwork from around the globe. Two birds with one stone!

5. Mini Adapter

nondaNonda is one of the best products for your new MacBook Pro Touch Bar (2019). It’s extremely light weight and incredibly easy to use. Even though this product is small, it’s nearly impossible to lose due to it’s importance. Not having a USB can be a drag, but with our experience, Nonda is a must have this holiday season for MacBook Pro Touch Bar users.

6. Earphones

beats by dreWith 12 hours of battery life and wireless design, the Powerbeats³ will be able to provide your fitness fanatic with powerful sound in style. It is sweat and water resistant, so it is as tough as your workouts.

7. Unicorn Light

light unicornNighttime just became a bit more magical with this adorable unicorn light by Smoko. Whether you need a nightlight, or am working late, this LED ambient unicorn is the answer.

8. Charging Rug

bear rug charger snoozzThis cozy bear rug charges your phone without the use of wires. Made of plush faux sheepskin, it is designed to not interrupt you with vibrations when you’re sleeping.

9. Sriracha Keychain

keychain srirachaTake your favorite hot sauce everywhere you go with the Sriracha keychain. Clip it onto your keys for easy access, and you’ll never have to be without Sriracha again!

10. Water Bottle

thermoflask takeyaKeep your drink cold all day with the Takeya Thermoflask. Perfect for the fitness enthusiast or that person who is always outdoors, the bottle will not disappoint.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

holiday gift guide home

Decorate the home and body with holiday gifts fit for even the pickiest person on your list. Accent pieces like candles can complete a room, while the perfect bag can make a trip much more enjoyable.

1. Echo Dot

amazon echo dotThe Echo Dot is an amazing addition to any room in your home. It is a voice controlled device with a built in speaker capable of playing music, setting your alarm, tell you the weather, control your thermostat, and more. With built in skills like requesting an Uber and the ability to play games like Jeopardy, you have endless uses for this smart device.

2. Pomade

baxter of california pomadeFor the man with a pompadour, or that friend that is obsessed with her hair, Baxter of California’s Paste Pomade will be an amazing gift. This hair product promises all day definition and thickness with a semi-matte finish. We’ve got your hair junkie covered.

3. Shoes

shoes joy and marioGive the gift of shoes with these His and Hers matching pairs of espadrilles from Joy & Mario. Both comfortable and fashionably versatile, these will be a great gift for you and your significant other without being over the top.

4. Essential Electronics Toolkit

toolkit ifixitFor the crafty one on your list or the one who loves to fix things like electronics and household items, the iFixit Toolkit will be the perfect gift. You can’t go wrong, especially with a warranty that guarantees the product should function as long as you own it!

5. Face Masks

dr jart face masksEveryone loves to be pampered, and Dr. Jart+ face masks is the perfect way to gift wellness and relaxation. During these upcoming brutally cold months, our skin takes a beating. Dr. Jart+ face masks are perfect for every skin type, from dry to oily to acne prone skin. They are great stocking stuffers or addition to a gift.  

6. Candles

baxter of california candleCandles are the perfect gift for anyone on your list, including yourself! Whether you want to give something special to the party planner or spice up your home, Baxter of California’s White Wood 2 will give your space a wonderful woodsy scent. This candle is a true crowd pleaser.

7. Messenger Bag

messenger bag moshiYour favorite traveler will love Moshi messenger bags because of the versatility and storage capabilities. Made with innovative materials and a modern design, they perfect for a business meeting or just strolling through town. 

8. Onesie

onesie forever lazyStay warm during these chilly months in a onesie! Always fun to wear and easy to please. Comfort is key, and you can’t go wrong with the festive print on this onesie by Forever Lazy. This fits both men and women, so everyone can enjoy!

9. Kitchenware

pokeball-bowls-thinkgeekHave you ever thought about what it would be like to eat out of a Pokéball? Well, now you can! Fulfill nostalgic dreams by gifting something that will warm hearts and fill stomachs. Putting the two halves together, it is about the size of a volleyball. That’s plenty of room for tasty snacks.

10. Wallet Phone Case

wallet cases incipioFor the person in your life that loses everything, they would love these wallet phone cases by Incipio. They are the perfect solution for protecting your device and storing cards. Incipio wallet phone cases are made for convenience, so you can leave your wallet at home.

holiday gift guide tech

Discover tech gifts that will get you in the season of giving. You might even find some cool gadgets to fill that space under the tree. Whether they enjoy gaming or an Apple fanboy, this guide will spark your imagination to give something that will make everyone happy.

1. Glasses

eyebuydirect-eyezenFor the techies in your life, you know their eyes are constantly glued to the computer screen. Whether it is for fashion or function, EyeBuyDirect provides affordable quality eyeglasses with its new Eyezen digital protection lenses. It features a unique blue light filtering technology to shield eyes from the negative effects from digital screens. With frames beginning at just $6, it can’t be beat!

2. Drone

drone mavicEveryone wants one, and now is the perfect opportunity to gift something extra special like the Mavic drone. If they are ready to go outside and pilot one of these amazing devices, prepare yourself for breathtaking views.

3. USB-C Charge Cables

cable moshi usb cFor the Mac and Google Pixel lovers, USB-C charge cables are an ideal gift. Charge and power any device equipped with a USB-C port with the Moshi USB-C Charge Cable.

4. Phone Cases

cases moshiProtect your loved one’s phone this year in style. Made with scratch resistant and shock absorbing materials, Moshi phone cases provides smart functionality and military grade protection. Their iPhone will look sophisticated and sleek while staying practical for everyday use.

5. Portable Battery

ionbank moshiWe all have that one friend who’s phone battery is always low. The Moshi portable battery is the perfect stocking stuffer. Whether they are constantly checking their Instagram or still playing Pokémon Go (lol), they’ll love the convenience of an extra charge right from their pocket. The Moshi IonBank 5k gives up to two full charges and can charge two devices simultaneously.

6. Saent

saentCan you imagine your workday without distractions? With the saent.com, it’s possible. Saent blocks apps and websites that distract you for instant focus.

7. Candle

candle macFor the Apple fanboys out there, having all their electronics may not be enough. This candle is perfect for the one that has everything. With notes of mint, peach, basil, lavender, mandarin and sage, your nose will be transported to your local Apple store with the New Mac scented candle by Twelve South.

 

8. MacBook Stand

bookarc twelve south

Slide your MacBook into the Twelve South BookArc for the ultimate desktop setup. Connect it to an external display, add a full-size keyboard and mouse, and you’ll have a comfortable desktop setup without losing desk space.

9. Laptop Bag

Helios Moshi backpackPerfect for travel, the Helios backpack by Moshi features sleek design with function in mind. Made with water-repellent coating and fully padded compartments, your laptop and electronics will stay safe wherever you go. The Helios backpack can hold a 15” laptop as well as slots for your notebooks, phone, and whatever else you may need on your travels.

 

10. Fitbit

charge 2 fitbitHelp your friends prepare for their New Year’s fitness resolution with a Fitbit. The Fitbit Charge 2 is better than ever with the abilities to track your heart rate, steps, alerts from your phone, breathing levels, and much more.

Jie writes about influencers and startups in various industries. She is a designer turned techie, and when she is not writing, you can find her in her workshop working on her next big project.

Continue Reading
1 Comment

1 Comment

  1. web page

    November 8, 2017 at 6:45 pm

    Wonderful, what a blog it is! This website presents useful information to us, keep it
    up.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Business

Top Marketing Podcasts for 2025 You Should Be Following Today

Published

on

marketing podcasts

Being a marketer means constantly being on the lookout for the latest in marketing trends and news. You’ll be surprised how fast trends come and go, along with the tools that you commonly use for your campaigns. If you’re looking for a trend that never goes out of style, it’s podcasting. Here are the top marketing podcasts to tune in to in 2025:

1. Marketing School

marketing school podcast cover art

Marketing School is hosted by one of the famous names in the marketing industry: Neil Patel. Eric Siu is also another popular figure hosting the show. They update listeners on the newest marketing and SEO trends and information. Plus, they interview content creators and marketers to share their marketing secrets and tips to achieve their goals. It’s a great starter podcast for new marketers in the field. Listen to the famous hosts every day!

2. Social Media Marketing Podcast

marketing podcasts

The Social Media Marketing Podcast should be your go-to podcast if you’re focused on social media marketing. Listen to Michael Stelzner weekly to get the best tips on marketing on social media with the latest tech and trends. If you’re also running out of content ideas, the podcast host also provides tips and insights to help you get started on new strategies. Plus, he interviews marketers and business leaders on how they achieved success with social media marketing.

3. The WARC Podcast

marketing podcasts

The WARC Podcast delivers marketing insights to help you know the latest in marketing for the week. You’ll learn what marketing challenges marketers overcame. Listen to them twice a week for recent trends, interviews, and event recaps. 

4. Duct Tape Marketing

duct tape marketing podcast cover art

Another big name in the marketing sphere is Duct Tape Marketing, which made an impact in 2005. Listen to John Janstch three times a week to listen to interviews with small business owners and marketers, and how they grew their businesses through marketing strategies. Don’t miss out on the trends and tips to supercharge your marketing.

5. Perpetual Traffic

marketing podcasts

If you want tips from expert marketers Ralph Burns and Kasim Aslam, listen to Perpetual Traffic! They specialize in paid traffic tips to help you increase sales and leads! Expect interviews from various experts in different niches. You can also get insights from case studies to help you grow your business. Listen to them twice a week!

6. The Digital Marketing Podcast

marketing podcasts

Do you want to be updated on everything digital marketing? The Digital Marketing Podcast is the best podcast to listen to. Know the latest news, updates, stats, and future of marketing. The hosts also discuss current tech trends in marketing to grow your business. Listen to the hosts twice a week!

7. The Affiliate Guy

marketing podcasts

Are you an affiliate marketer and need expert advice and the latest updates on affiliate marketing? You should listen to The Affiliate Guy. Hosted by Matt McWilliams, he has trained over 320,000 affiliates. 

Think of The Affiliate Guy’s podcasts as engaging audio versions of How-To blogs. Additionally, he interviews entrepreneurs and leaders. Plus, he also references case studies to help you understand how they achieved their goals.

8. Marketing Trends

marketing podcasts

The very apt Marketing Trends podcast updates you weekly with new information and insights about marketing! You can listen to CEOs, CMOs, and other thought leaders share best practices and strategies to grow the biggest brands! Know how you can grow as a leader or an ambitious marketer when you get the latest tips for achieving success.

9. Stand The F*ck Out™

marketing podcasts

Are you tired of hearing or reading the same marketing tip or trend and don’t want to use that strategy anymore? Stand The F*ck Out™ gets straight to the point and doesn’t dilly dally when discussing marketing. Louis Grenier hosts the show and provides evergreen topics. You also get to hear from experienced marketers how their teams executed strategies and got the desired results. Listen to this podcast weekly.

10. Social Pros Podcast

marketing podcasts

Are you interested in learning how social media marketers execute their campaigns for big brands? The Social Pros Podcast should be on your radar. Jay and Adam host the show, which you can listen to weekly. Not only do they discuss recent trends and strategies, but they also discuss team management and other personal conversations on being a marketer.

11. Marketing Over Coffee

marketing podcasts

Do you prefer listening to podcasts in the morning during breakfast? Why not listen to Marketing Over Coffee on the side while enjoying a hearty morning meal? Like other podcasts, you’ll hear the latest tech trends like AI and improved marketing tools. Plus, get insights from the experts like Seth Godin, Rand Fishkin, and Ann Handley! Episodes come out weekly!

Continue Reading

Lifestyle

What the Hell Was Magic Dirt? The Black Oxygen Organics Hoax

Published

on

magic dirt

It has been years since we experienced the bizarre that was the pandemic, and yet, shady schemes still abound in the form of MLM (multilevel marketing) related to it. If you’ve ever heard or seen Magic Dirt, you’re not alone in wondering what it is all about. 

While we’re now in the era of AI breakthroughs, space tourism, and wearable brain tech, some people still seem to be stuck in the horrid past. Sellers are peddling literal dirt as a miracle health product. Promoted mainly by anti-vax influencers and conspiracy circles, this dirt they call “wellness solution” was sold with pseudoscience, fear tactics, and a generous dose of misinformation.

And yes, it was an MLM. Because of course it was.

Here’s the breakdown of the Magic Dirt controversy—just one of many reasons why multi-level marketing schemes continue to be a red flag for anyone with a functioning sense of skepticism.

Planting The Seeds

From Instagram

It all began in May of 2021 when we were finally getting into the rhythm of our “new normal.” Of course, health was a significant topic of discussion in the media. It’s no surprise that many alternative medicines are gaining popularity on social media. It was during this month that a peculiar brand emerged on the scene. Depictions began circulating with smiling women slathering black mud on their faces, drinking jars of black liquid, and placing their babies’ feet in a tub of black water.

In the captions, they listed the numerous benefits of using this new  “magic dirt.”  And of course, the benefits varied from person to person. You might read one post that credits the dirt with curing her child’s low energy and constipation. Then you might scroll on to read another post claiming that it rejuvenates the skin while calming anxiety. 

One thing these posts had in common was that they contained the hashtag #BOO while providing a shoutout to the company Black Oxygen Organics.

So, what does Black Oxgen Organics have to say about their “magic dirt”? As a brand, they described their product as,

 “the end product and smallest particle of the decomposition of ancient, organic matter.” 

Yeah, it’s purposely vague. In short, Magic Dirt is supposed to be a form of fulvic acid. This is a compound derived from the decayed plants of an Ontario peat bog. Sounds super rejuvenating, right? 

To be fair, fulvic acid is shown to help with allergies and gastrointestinal function. But as with your average MLM, Black Magic Organics has exaggerated these benefits to the tenth power. They’ve taken these benefits and used them to sell 4.5 ounces of literal dirt, sealed in a fancy black bag and stamped with a $110 price tag. And if that didn’t feel like a slap in the face already, this stuff didn’t even come with free shipping!

Magic Dirt is claimed to be safe for anyone of any age. This includes your children and your pets. It’s been said to help heart health, brain function, and pretty much every common health problem in the world.

Of course, with it being 2021 and all, it started getting sent around to anti-vax and COVID-sceptical groups. Instead of seeking treatment for a deadly virus, people were mixing mud into their smoothies and calling it a day. 

The Immediate Downfall

From @blackoxygenorganics on Instagram

As Instagrammers and TikTokers promoted this “cure-all” product, an alarming number of women were eager to become direct sellers. For many, this company was their first introduction to the notorious Multi-Level-Marketing schemes. 

That is, until the professionals got involved. You see, Magic Dirt was not at all FDA approved. And when health regulators from the U.S. and Canada became aware of its popularity, they conducted an investigation. They called for multiple product holds at the border, which in turn gave rise to an army of online skeptics. 

And in typical MLM fashion, Black Oxygen Organics took their money and ran for the hills. Only about six months after its initial success, the company announced that it was officially shutting down. This sparked a significant backlash from online sellers. They grieved the end of miracle supplements, while also petitioning to recover the thousands they had invested in direct selling. 

Unfortunately, most victims of these schemes will likely never recover their money.

The fact of the matter is that Black Oxygen Organics and similar companies are based on a scam. Period. That’s what everyone needs to remember, so they can avoid making the same mistakes as so many others. Always be vigilant for predatory companies.

Continue Reading

Lifestyle

These Anti-MLM Communities Are Saving People from Scams

Published

on

a man and a woman scamming

Have you ever stumbled upon an MLM online community? If your answer is no, you’re lucky. But if you did, you’d know that they can be a breeding ground for toxicity. Fortunately for some, a new wave of anti-MLM communities has emerged and is giving the much-needed breath of fresh air. 

These communities include people who use their platforms to warn us about these dangerous schemes. They also provide a support system for those who are still enmeshed in it and trying to find a way out.

If you’re one of the unlucky ones trying to escape or are just curious, check out these four anti-MLM communities that are saving people from scams.

r/antiMLM

I just love Reddit. It provides a window into just about any subculture, no matter how obscure, and connects you with like-minded people from around the globe. It’s honestly the easiest place to find communities with shared interests.

r/antiMLM is just one of the many communities Reddit has to offer. People will post discussions, pictures, and screenshots showcasing the horror of MLMs. The content ranges from lighthearted and funny, to downright sad. Either way, everyone here has the same idea: MLMs are harmful and predatory. Should anyone come across this subreddit, they’ll be way less likely to fall for a pyramid scheme. And by subscribing to said subreddit, they are nearly eliminating all possibilities of going anywhere near an MLM. Subscribers of r/antiMLM are familiar with popular MLM companies, their tactics, and the red flags within the direct marketing industry.  They are quicker to identify this type of scam. 

The Anti-MLM Coalition

From The Anti MLM Coalition

This website is an absolute GODSEND. The Anti-MLM Coalition is an incredible organization filled with educational materials and various resources. You can tell from the homepage alone that they mean business. 

The menu bar provides 8 main website pages. The “Homepage “is filled with their latest articles and a search bar to navigate. “MLM Master List” is exactly what it sounds like: a list of all the known MLM companies in existence. The “MLM or Not?” page brings users to a long article detailing how to spot your typical pyramid scheme.

“Get Help” is a page filled with helpful information. It’s for people who have a loved one trapped in an MLM, or people who wanna take action against these companies. Each link leads to a detailed article on the subject. 

The “Resources” page is a shoutout to various authors, YouTubers, and documentaries. It helps anyone who’s trying to do further research. They have a page dedicated to a very shareable infographic; a great tactic to spread the word around fast. 

The “Activism” page provides a guideline on where and how to take action. They recommend printing cards, reporting, and exposing MLM corporations on social media. The more buzz, the better. 

And of course, they have a “Contact” page in case you need to get in touch.

MLM Lies Exposed

anti-mlm
Image credit: Luca Sammarco on Pexels

Looking for more places to discuss your anti-MLM sentiments? Or just looking for general help without the hassle? Well, here’s the biggest anti-MLM Facebook group. MLM Lies Exposed is an invite-only community with over 30,000 members. It’s a lot like r/antiMLM, in that you can post things involving the false promises and skeevy behavior behind MLMs. I’d recommend this page to anyone who’s more familiar with Facebook or finds it easier to navigate than Reddit.

Anti- MLM Youtube

anti-mlm
Image credit: freestocks.org on Pexels

Now, hear me out. This is not an official community, but if you’re a regular on YouTube, you’ll know that there are different genres of videos. And each of these genres has garnered its own distinct communities.

They’re kinda like cliques. You’ve got gamer bro YouTubers at one table, and you’ve got beauty influencers at another table. You’ve got commentary YouTubers sitting somewhere near the true crime YouTubers and the podcast channels. Somewhere in the corner, you’ve got the anti-MLM spaces. These YouTubers dedicate their channels to spreading awareness about MLMs and other shady corporate behavior. 

Popular YouTube channels include Hannah Alonzo, iilluminaughtii, NOT THE GOOD GIRL,  and Kiki Chanel 

MLM companies often pretend to be a revolutionary force changing the world and their own lives. In truth, they’re just making their distributors continue a cycle of unhappiness and financial ruin. These are the communities that help people who’ve been duped by these false hopes to move on with their lives.

Continue Reading

Trending