The Focus Group

Shop Talk covers the latest Executive Order from Trump that tells the Fed to no longer produce pennies. The penny will still be used but will probably become scarce if they are not replenished each year. The penny’s demise has been talked about for many years, but Trump is acting like it is his “new” idea. Caught My Eye asks why Aldi is so quiet inside and Walmart catches a serial shoplifter stealing ramen and bras. Nicolas Hayek, founder of Swatch, is our Business Birthday. We’re all business. Except when we’re not. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

While many have backed off DEI Initiatives, Disney has placed them where they belong—internally. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is still important for Disney, but doing your job is the key measure that will move you ahead at the company. Then, retailer Costco, is building a new store in South Los Angeles with 800 apartments on top of the warehouse. Everyone is curious as to how this will work and if it will spread to other markets. Finally, homophobic hecklers at the Dolly Parton inspired musical in the UK, “Here You Come Again,” are not welcome and will be ejected. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk shares three things we can learn from Dolly Parton’s business legacy. Caught My Eye reports that KitKat will be discontinuing the vegan candy bar option so get them now while you can. Also, a new study from Talker Research looks at the pizza habits of America. You will be surprised at which state per capita eats the most pizza. Don Panoz, founder of Chateau Elon and the nicotine patch, is our Business Birthday. We’re all business. Except when we’re not. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Human Rights Campaign, (HRC), joins The Trevor Project and GLSEN in reducing staff and refocusing their efforts in the new political climate. Our question to all these non-profits is, how have you advanced LGBTQ rights in the last few years? Then, an angry customer who purchased a Subaru Outback tried to return it by driving through the dealership. He is now charged with a couple of felonies due to damages of more than 85K. Finally, a Bare Necessities nude cruise left Miami last week on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship and “no-fondling is allowed.” Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk looks at the real costs and pitfalls of a brand deciding to invest at least $10 million on a Super Bowl TV spot. Caught My Eye reports that a passenger on a cruise line was charged 47K for flu treatment and insurance does not want to cover. Also, have you heard of “ducking”? It’s. Jeep thing and has turned into a profitable business for an astute entrepreneur. Nolan Bushnell, founder of Atari and Chuck E. Cheese, is our Business Birthday. We’re all business. Except when we’re not. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

“Little House on The Prairie” is scheduled for a reboot through Netflix, and conservative mouthpiece Megyn Kelly threatened to ruin the project if it went woke. Former star of the show, Melissa Gilbert, responded to the Kelly post saying how woke the original series really was and perhaps she should give it a rewatch. But first, Target is booted as a sponsor by Minnesota Pride due to their backpedaling of DEI initiatives. Finally, the cannabis community is helping victims of the LA fires with donations to replace some paraphernalia that may have been lost. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk looks at a concept called Doordom that can help you get through the time between New Years and Spring. Caught My Eye covers a Chinese national who wouldn’t negotiate with the local government, so they built a new highway around his house. He regrets his decision now. Also, don’t write on your Passport. Poland recently denied entry to a woman who wrote the address of the airport on her Passport. Who knew this was a “thing”? Lewis Urry, the inventor of the alkaline battery, is our Business Birthday. We’re all business. Except when we’re not. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Under the new administration, apart from two military related flags, only the American flag is to be flown or displayed at government building. An executive order calls out The PRIDE and BLM flags specifically as not allowed. It will be interesting to see how Washington, DC handles World Pride this June. Then, Paul Reubens, of Pee Wee Herman fame, comes out in a soon to be released film entitled, “Pee-Wee as Himself.” Finally, the “corpse flower” is blooming in Brooklyn and people are lining up to smell the putrid plant. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk looks at a New Zealand study that concludes the importance of cultivating Emotional Intelligence, or EQ, in raising children. Caught My Eye covers the journey that leftover cruise ship food takes after not being eaten. It is a surprise. Also, Progresso Soups is selling “soup you can suck” in the form of chicken flavored hard candy to celebrate National Soup Month. Timothy Dexter, Colonial America Businessman and self-proclaimed Lord Dexter, is our Business Birthday. We’re all business. Except when we’re not. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

TFG Unbuttoned: PREP HIV drug is the Latest Religious Right Target In the latest religious right grievance, The US Supreme Court will hear a case this year as to whether employers must cover through insurance the HIV prevention drug PREP. Then, The Trevor Project is faced with budget shortfalls leading to layoffs and a reorganization. Finally, a woman wins the lottery and while her family ignored her as the black sheep, they now think she should share the wealth. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

META—Facebook, Instagram, and Threads—has taken off all guardrails related to what you can or cannot post to their platforms. Their new content moderation policies contain a carveout that allows users to call LGBTQ people mentally ill. Gender, sexuality, race, and religion all appear to be open game in the META universe. But first, “Look Into My Eyes” was the most overlooked documentary of 2024 and John recommends you give it a watch. Also, a rogue IKEA Store was opened in North Korea. Andre Michelin, founder of the tire company and famed Michelin Guides, is our Business Birthday. We’re all business. Except when we’re not. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Four California consumers try to commit insurance fraud by claiming a bear attacked the interiors of their cars. Wait until you hear the rest of the story. But first, a transgender bathroom policy takes effect at the House of Representatives, and Elton John reveals what made him quit his cocaine addiction. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bucking the trend of other large corporations that have folded under pressure from the right wing to abandon their DEI Initiatives, COSTCO stands firm in their support of DEI efforts. Refreshingly, they said that DEI was important for the members, employees, and success of the organization. The Focus Group has been waiting for the first corporation to take a stand so kudos to COSTCO. But first, some bronze medal Olympic athletes are upset with the tarnished condition of their medals. Also, META is revisiting the presence of AI generated profiles on their social media platforms. Carol Tome, former lead executive at UPS and The Home Depot, is our Business Birthday. We’re all business. Except when we’re not. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Florida joins a growing number of conservative states that are now requiring proof of ID to access adult sites like Pornhub, and others perceived to be prurient in nature. Then, disgraced former Abercrombie CEO, Mike Jeffries, claims dementia will derail his sexual misconduct charges. The courts in June will assess whether he is fit for trial or not. Finally, an LGBTQ Center in the San Diego area is facing backlash for dropping the “T” from their center's work. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah. Tim and John share their favorite toys of their childhood. Also, fun facts about the Pee-Wee Herman Christmas Special are shared. Can you believe the show first aired 36 years ago? A quick trip to Santa Claus, Indiana and who is and isn’t on the Royal Christmas invite list? We’re all business. Except when we’re not. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There are five well known US Retailers that need a successful 4th quarter. Consumers this year are focused on value more than ever and these retailers need to get the message. But first, according to Indiana University’s Equitable Giving Lab, less than 1% of all charitable giving goes to LGBTQ+ causes. Finally, for the person who has everything, how about gifting shares of Grindr stock? Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk looks at applying the one-dollar rule for guilt free shopping. Caught My Eye covers the public push-back from Bloomingdales green-suited Santa. Also, a woman in Long Island had the license plate number NCC-1701 in a nod to the famed tv series Star Trek. Even though her plate expired 3 years ago, the lazy DMVs from other states are forwarding her tickets from people with imposter Star Trek vanity plates using the same number. Jacques Pépin, chef, entrepreneur, artist, and Emmy winning TV personality, is our Business Birthday. We’re all business. Except when we’re not. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Analysts are identifying a new shopping trend with Gen Z as they head to the mall. Gen Z’s return to the mall shows this cohort has more in common with Baby Boomers than Gen X or Millennials. But first, Stoli in the USA has filed for bankruptcy claiming slow spirits sales and Russia fatigue. Also, The Pet Shop Boys prove once again that they are masterful when it comes to music, marketing, and creativity. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrC Spotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1 iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LW YouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81 Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctj YouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5a Also follow Tim and John on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk reveals four simple rules that Shark Tank panelist Barbara Corcoran, says will help you in not only your career, but in life. Caught My Eye looks at a wheelchair bound contestant that won a treadmill on the “Price Is Right.” Also, a mom is thankful for her OnlyFans revenue over the past year as she “can finally give her kids the Christmas they deserve.” Tony Hsieh, entrepreneur and former CEO of Zappos, is our Business Birthday.We’re all business. Except when we’re not.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The LPGA and USGA golf associations have set forth new guidelines for 2025 requiring golfers to be female at birth or to have transitioned pre-puberty to be eligible to compete in women’s events. So far, only trans golfer, Hailey Davidson, has spoken out against the new rules. Then, Village People founder and writer of the song YMCA, Victor Willis, says the song is not a gay anthem and in 2025 he and his wife will sue anyone who says so. LOL. Finally, a pair of ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in “The Wizard of OZ,” brings in a record $32 million at a recent auction.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk reveals the 2024 word of the year according to Dictionary.com. Caught My Eye looks at an unintentional gay Christmas motif from Walmart. Also, an Episcopal Minister struggles with questions from the Bible on Jeopardy. Chester Greenwood, the inventor of earmuffs, is our Business Birthday.We’re all business. Except when we’re not.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

One US Senator thinks the new administration could save millions by discontinuing the penny. Apparently, it costs 3 cents to make each one cent penny. But first, Walmart has buckled under pressure from conservative activist Robby Starbuck and will discontinue or “revisit” their internal DEI Corporate Initiatives. Walmart will also join a growing list of Fortune 500 companies that will no longer participate in the HRC Corporate Equality Index. Finally, there is a trend of some gay men doing poppers while enjoying the soundtrack during the movie Wicked. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk looks at the controversy of the rebranding of Jaguar as they move to an all-electric portfolio. The advertising and marketing world were caught off guard by Jaguar’s bold move with many panning the new direction. Caught My Eye looks at the absence of women in the magic field and Girl Scouts USA raise membership fees and cookie prices for 2025. Konosuke Matsushita, the founder of Panasonic, is our Business Birthday.We’re all business. Except when we’re not. Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ellen DeGeneres and her wife Portia de Rossi have put their California house on the market and decided to move to the Cotswolds in England since the election of Trump. But first, airports across America are rethinking the moving sidewalk due to costs of operation and repair. Also, ‘Lavender Marriage’ gets an update with Gen Z.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk looks at a recurring job hunt trend on TikTok called “white fonting.” While we do not totally agree with the article, we do agree that networking and human connections are most important in the job search. Caught My Eye looks car buying sticker shock and an auctioned off piece of cake from Queen Elizabeth II. William Painter, the inventor of the bottle cap and bottle opener, is our Business Birthday.We’re all business. Except when we’re not.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chocolatier Lindt, admits that its claim as being a premium chocolate were all bogus. Then, book banning in Tennessee finds Dr. Suess under fire for the book “Wacky Wednesday.” Also, credit card debt for retirees takes an alarming turn with more people relying on high interest credit cards to live day to day. Finally, John gets recognized at the gym by long time listener, Jason.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk looks at a LinkedIn post from DEI expert and consultant Dr. Lauren Tucker. She is leaving the fight for justice behind, and we find her rationale has correlation with the fight for LGBTQ acceptance too. Caught My Eye looks at a cache of not seen segments from The Thunderbirds 1960’s TV series. Also, the Boy Scouts are selling off property and artwork to pay for over 84,000 sexual abuse claims. Norman Rockwell and J. C. Leyendecker works are among the items up for auction. Leo Baekeland, the inventor Bakelite and Father of the Plastics Industry, is our Business Birthday.We’re all business. Except when we’re not.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Some of our favorite brands— Hormel, Levi’s, Hasbro, and Starbucks—are paring down offerings to be more efficient and save money. By offering less options of a product it helps keep prices down for consumers. Then, the North Korean troops deployed to Russia and Ukraine have for the first time in their lives unfettered access to the world wide web. Reliable sources say the young lads are “gorging” themselves on porn! Finally, 43 rhesus macaque monkeys were accidentally freed from a research facility in South Carolina and catching them proved to be difficult.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk this week features B2B Marketing and Sales expert Kevin Downey. Kevin shares insights about the power and skill of crafting and sending cold emails. But first, Tim and John discuss the election of Donald Trump and the “Era of Uncertainty” we are about to embark on. Donald Hings, the inventor of the Walkie Talkie is our Business Birthday.We’re all business. Except when we’re not.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Maverik Convenience store is voted the best restroom in America for 2024 according to a Cintas survey. Cleanliness, visual appeal, and design were part of the criteria. But first, a regional Japanese High Court has ruled that the government’s policy against same-sex marriage is unconstitutional. Finally, a long-time church choir director is fired for his same-sex marriage. The choir director was beloved and worked for the St. Francis Catholic Church in Traverse City, Michigan for 34 years and planned to retire this January.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk this week features Dr. Robb Mapou. Robb is a long-time listener and had something to say about the topic of ADHD that we covered a few weeks back. Caught My Eye looks at a Brit that is trying to retrieve a Bitcoin hard drive, worth millions, from a landfill. Also, 1990’s Fitness Guru Susan Powter, wants to make a comeback after losing her fitness empire and millions of dollars. Verne Winchell, the founder of Winchell’s Donuts and CEO of Dennys, is our Business Birthday.We’re all business. Except when we’re not.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sex, drugs, and flip flops finally catch-up to former Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries. He and two others are charged with sex trafficking of young men while they ran the cool clothing brand. Then, an Australian woman is trapped in a crevice for 7 hours upside down, while trying to retrieve her phone. Did she ever get her phone after the rescue? Finally, Dante Colle, a “fluid” adult performer, shoots-up his $100K Cybertruck to see if it is bulletproof as advertised by Elon Musk.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk this week features Tupperware Maven, Aunt Barbara. She joins us to clear up any rumors about the demise of Tupperware post-bankruptcy. Good news is you can still buy products from Aunt Barbara! And Tupperware lives! Caught My Eye looks at an article that predicts less chocolate this year for Halloween due to a cocoa shortage out of West Africa. Also, a book about Holy Land USA in Waterbury, CT brings the kitschy attraction to life 40 years later with some newfound photos. William A. Mitchell, the inventor of Tang, Pop Rocks, Cool Whip, and powdered egg whites is our Business BirthdayWe’re all business. Except when we’re not.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

More than 800 LGB service members who were discharged under DADT—“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”—will now receive honorable discharges, the Department of Defense announced last week. (Trans individuals were not included as they were banned until recently from military service.) Then, Outfest, the long running Los Angeles LGBTQ film festival, is in financial free fall with finger pointing by the board and former top exec. It looks like the courts will call the fate of the event and personnel involved. Finally, the Dunedin Airport in New Zealand has erected signs limiting good-bye hugs to 3 minutes.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk this week comes from Inc. Magazine. An article, based on a survey of almost 1,000 companies, finds that Gen Z is having some issues breaking into the workforce or staying on the job once hired. Caught My Eye reports on a hacked foul talking Ecovac. Also, a woman in Washington State gets overwhelmed by a gang of raccoons. Marion Donovan, the inventor of the disposable diaper, is our Business Birthday.We’re all business. Except when we’re not.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Human Rights Campaign is spending $2million in key states to get out the vote for Harris-Walz. Then, a study out of Finland finds that having a rough night’s sleep can affect you for up to a week. Finally, Delta Airlines has sent out a two-page memo to current and future flight attendants that underwear must be worn but not seen.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk this week comes from Inc. Magazine. 80% of CEOs surveyed predict remote work will be dead in three years. Caught My Eye looks at two LA documentarians that are trying to contact the Pasadena Piss Bandit. Also, clean-up could soon begin on the Great Pacific Garbage Patch—after $7.5 billion is raised for the five-year effort. BrianLamb, the founder of CSPAN, is our Business Birthday. The answers to the movie clips from Criterion Month are revealed. Thanks to all who played “Pick That Flick!”Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Pennsylvania school district thought it was a good idea to install viewing windows from the hallway into the trans/non-binary bathroom. The reason was supposedly to crack down on drug use, but many saw it as another anti-LGBTQ+ trope. Then, Wallet Hub released their list of the Happiest States in America. Listen to see who made the top ten. Finally, a Picasso worth about $7 million dollars has been hanging around a junk dealer’s house in Italy for over 50 years. Now that it is authenticated the family will send the Picasso to auction.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk reveals Fortune Magazine’s list of the world’s most influential LGBTQ+ business leaders. Caught My Eye looks at an original copy of the US Constitution that was found in a file folder in North Carolina. Also, airlines are imposing a zero-tolerance policy with heavy fines for disruptive passengers. Marcus Urann, the Father of Ocean Spray and the canned cranberry log, is our Business Birthday. Next week John will announce the answers to the movie clips as we close-out Criterion Month thanks to our friends at Deep Discount. Thanks to all who played "Pick That Flick"!We’re all business. Except when we’re not.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A lesbian firefighter and paramedic may be awarded over $1 million for the constant bullying she endured while employed at the Kansas City, Missouri Fire Dept. Ageism and her female gender also played a part in the harassment. Then, it appears that the former first lady Melania Trump, won’t speak anywhere during campaign season without getting paid. Melania received over $250K to speak at a recent Log Cabin Fundraising Event. Finally, egg prices are on the rise again but not because of inflation. The bird flu is the culprit this time so expect to pay about 30% more for eggs in the next few months.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk covers the recent response from the HRC to recent anti-DEI pushback. Listener Bill from California sends us a sheet of $2 dollar bills. Caught My Eye looks at golf ball pollution, and the iconic voice of James Earl Jones being recreated using AI. Melville Bissell, inventor of the carpet sweeper, is our Business Birthday. Remember, September is Criterion Collection month. Thanks to our partner Deep Discount you have a chance to win one of the great movies from Criterion on “John says, Pick That Flick.”We’re all business. Except when we’re not.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Joe Biden has made history twice in the last month by being the first President to sit for an interview with an LGBTQ publication and appointing more Federal Judges than any other administration in US history. Thank you, Joe! Then, while the introduction of touch screen kiosks was supposed to take jobs away, the exact opposite has happened. Finally, social media has mainstreamed the idea of fridgescaping—where you decorate the interior of your ice box. Picture frames, crystal vases, and lighting are just some of the trends. September is Criterion Month thanks to our partner at Critics’ Choice Video. Listen in to play along on John says, Pick that Flick!Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk looks at the possibility that widespread shoplifting over the last few years at places like Target may have been overstated. Also, The Campbells Soup Company proposes a name change. Caught My Eye looks at a full-sized LEGO model of a McLarenP1 supercar that is drivable. Also, a mom dies in Wales while trying to win a marshmallow eating contest for her son’s rugby team. Cassius Coolidge, the artist credited with what we would now call American Kitsch, is our Business Birthday. Coolidge created a series of Dogs Playing Poker art to promote the cigar industry. Remember, September is Criterion Collection month. Thanks to our partner Deep Discount, you have a chance to win one of the great movies from Criterion on “John says, Pick That Flick.”We’re all business. Except when we’re not.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After 30 years and millions of dollars raised to fight HIV/AIDS, the AIDS Lifecycle 2025 will be the last year of the 500 mile plus ride. While the mission is still important the financials are becoming a challenge. But first, an anti-LGBTQ Christian Pastor, Jeffrey Smith, is arrested for groping a man in public at a North Carolina Walmart. Then, conspiracy hound and Trump confidant Laura Loomer, lashes out at Senator Lindsey Graham telling him to “come out of the closet already, we all know you’re gay.” September is Criterion Month thanks to our partner at Critics’ Choice Video. Listen in to play along on “John says, Pick that Flick!"Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk looks at the habit of DOOM—didn’t organize, only move—piles. Keeping them around may be a sign of depression or ADHD. Caught My Eye looks at the death of a Russian spy whale in Norway named Hvaldimir. Also, an aggrieved couple is spending over $400K to try to get reinstated in Disney’s “exclusive” Club33. Steve Ells, founder and CEO of Chipotle, is our Business Birthday. Remember, September is Criterion Collection month. Thanks to our partner Deep Discount you have a chance to win one of the great movies from Criterion on “John says, Pick That Flick.”We’re all business. Except when we’re not.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Florida’s continued crusade to ban any books that can be construed to have adult content has included most of the body of work from famed author Stephen King. King commented that anytime elders do not want you to read something you need to find it—and read it! Then, new data from the recent census shows same sex male and female couples do not favor the same areas with men preferring a more urban area and women favoring a rural domicile. Finally, dining out alone is a trend being led by Gen Z and Millennials. September is Criterion Month thanks to our partner at Critics’ Choice Video. Listen in to play along on John says, Pick That Flick!Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk looks at a Williams Institute study that concludes that LGBTQ people who come out at work face job discrimination as compared to those who stayed in the closet. Caught My Eye covers Quentin Tarantino’s pronouncement that he will not watch Toy Story 4. Also, a young man's ice cream stand is closed in Norwood, Mass., and a Wells Fargo employee is found dead at her desk after four days. Lewis Howard Latimer, prolific inventor and polymath, is our Business Birthday. Remember, September is Criterion Month. Play Pick That Flick for your chance to win!We’re all business. Except when we’re not.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Lowe’s Home Improvement and Ford Motor Company are the latest targets in the far-right anti-DEI crusade. In some ways, it’s been a godsend for brands that were not serious about DEI and are using the threat of boycott as an excuse to move away from diversity initiatives. Social media influencer Art Bezrukavenko creates a gay AI thirst trap, and a child knocks over a 3,500-year-old Bronze Age vase. The museum in Israel did not have the vase protected and considered the breakage a learning moment. Remember, September is Criterion month. Play Pick That Flick for your chance to win.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop Talk looks at a revived GAP brand thanks to pop star Troye Sivan and new leadership under Richard Dickson. Dickson was credited with modernizing Barbie at Mattel and is updating GAP, Banana Republic, Old Navy, and Athleta. Caught My Eye looks at Mister Softee and an odd product called Trumpy Trout. F. William Free, controversial ad executive is our Business Birthday.We’re all business. Except when we’re not.Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Liquor brand Jack Daniels drops all DEI initiatives based on the threat of a boycott from far-right activist Robby Starbuck, who has been successful with getting Tractor Supply, John Deere, and Harley Davidson to back off DEI programs as reported here in the last few months. Then, VisitFlorida has removed the LGBTQ travel section from their website—so much for a state that relies on tourism for its economy. Also, French Actor Alain Delon wanted his dog Loubo euthanized and buried with him upon his death. His family decided to not abide by his wishes. Here’s a wake-up call: this year’s college Freshmen Class of 2028 was born in 2006!Apple Podcasts: apple.co/1WwDBrCSpotify: spoti.fi/2pC19B1iHeart Radio: bit.ly/4aza5LWYouTube Music: bit.ly/43T8Y81Pandora: pdora.co/2pEfctjYouTube: bit.ly/1spAF5aAlso follow Tim and John on:Facebook: www.facebook.com/focusgroupradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.