Philip McKenzie

Excited to share McKinsey & Company new report on Asians and Pacific Islanders (API) in Hollywood -- the research shows that while there’s been a surge in content featuring API characters and storylines, more than two-thirds of API consumers are dissatisfied with the authenticity of their representation in film and television. What’s at stake? Addressing these perceptions could unlock a $2-4 billion opportunity per year for the industry. Key takeaways from our new report: - While API representation has grown over the past 20 years, API actors are still underrepresented in US-produced content. - There are specific hurdles for API content in showcasing genuine characters and narratives, such as race-neutral films and animated series. - Behind-the-scenes gatekeepers are essential to ensuring that API stories and characters are portrayed authentically. - The film and television industry has a multibillion-dollar opportunity to capitalize on this trend. Read more here 👉 https://lnkd.in/eHzhHyyt #diversityequityinclusion #filmandtelevision #representationmatters #mediamatters #AAPIHeritageMonth

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Founder & CEO at Noble Books Publishing Pioneering the Future of Publishing and Marketing As the founder and driving force behind Noble Books Publishing, I've embarked on a mission to revolutionize the worlds of publishing and marketing. With a vision to empower aspiring authors and burgeoning businesses, Noble Books stands as the first-ever comprehensive solution for individuals and enterprises seeking to carve their niche in the literary and commercial spheres. Innovative Approach: At Noble Books, we don't just offer services; we provide holistic solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients. From ghostwriting and illustration to website development and design, our 360-degree marketing approach ensures that every facet of your project receives the attention it deserves. Transforming Dreams into Reality: Our company is more than just a publishing house; it's a catalyst for success. By offering unparalleled support and guidance, we empower aspiring authors to transform their literary dreams into tangible realities. Likewise, we partner with small businesses to unlock their full potential through strategic marketing and online reputation management (ORM) strategies. Setting the Standard: As the first US-based marketing and ebook publishing company headquartered in the United States, Noble Books is setting a new standard for excellence in the industry. Our commitment to quality, integrity, and personalized service sets us apart as the premier destination for individuals and organizations alike. Our Motto: "They do it over the phone, we do it in person." This mantra encapsulates our dedication to going above and beyond for our clients, ensuring that every interaction is characterized by authenticity, professionalism, and genuine care. Join me in shaping the future of publishing and marketing. Let's write the next chapter of success together at Noble Books Publishing.

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Stephen Hecht, co-founder of YPO and chief executive peacemaker of Million Peacemakers, is spearheading a groundbreaking initiative to train a million peacemakers globally. Leveraging technology and partnerships, Hecht's vision aims to empower individuals with conflict resolution skills, with recent developments including collaborations in Rwanda and partnerships with organizations like Morris Life and Workbay. The initiative, now expanding beyond borders, emphasizes the importance of fostering peace amidst global polarization. Discover how Hecht's integrated approach, including the use of AI and GBT technology, is driving systemic change toward a more peaceful world. About Stephen Hecht - - Stephen Hecht is a peacemaking leader with over 30 years of experience in various industries, including fashion, trading, and non-profit. - He is the co-founder and Chief Executive Peacemaker at Million Peacemakers, a non-profit organization that teachepeople the art of everyday peacemaking using the Nonflict way, a three-step method to resolve conflicts constructively. - He is also the co-author of the #1 bestseller Nonflict: The Art of Everyday Peacemaking, which has been translated into nine languages and endorsed by global leaders. WATCH:https://lnkd.in/evDtpTA2 . . . #MillionPeacemakers #YPO #Peacebuilding #Technology #GlobalImpact #ConflictResolution

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Amazing news for all startup founders out there! If you're struggling to validate your idea, build your MVP, or get traction early on, this opportunity is for you. Pre-seed accelerators can provide the capital and support needed to get your product to market, and Tré Baker has shared an amazing opportunity to access these resources. As a fellow early-stage founder, I know how difficult it can be to secure funding, which is the stage where many startups unfortunately fail. By providing underrepresented founders with the resources they need, these accelerators can help ensure higher returns for everyone involved. Don't miss out on this chance to take your startup to the next level! #startupfounders #preseedaccelerators #earlystagefounders #funding #resources

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I highly recommend this discussion between Amy Webb and Brene Brown about responding to our current environment. Some takeaways: ✍️ we're going through a "super cycle" of change right now: AI, wearables and biotechnology. It means the volume and speed of change may feel unmanageable. ✍️ we need leaders who can "drive into the skid" - i.e. when you drive on ice and start to skid, you need to avoid the kneejerk reaction which is to slam on the brakes. Instead, you need to drive into the skid. An Aussie equivalent would be to swim with the current if you get caught in a rip rather than fighting it. ✍️ a key skill for leaders is to cultivate our ability to respond calmly, even when faced with seemingly urgent situations. That will require intentional practice, and may require training. ✍️ the need to nurture organisational cultures of "learn it all" rather than "know it all". I'll always be a work in progress, but this has reinforced my intention to continue to cultivate practices that support me to be fully present, and to carve out time for deep thinking and abstract thought. For me that looks like regular coaching sessions, a daily "square breathing" practice, a return to journalling, and reconnecting with #Gestalt practices through a postgrad learning circle. https://lnkd.in/dcY9k3zr

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125. For Your Consideration: "The Q & A Series” With the "My Current Mood Series", the "Kaleidoscope: Color, Form, Motion, Sound, Text in the Moving Image Series”, and its “Color Theories Subseries” programs currently on hiatus in support of the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes, and the "Shane: The Sacred and Profane Project" now on a beverage and pee break, let’s introduce a new thread! Not that this hasn’t been interesting, but these random, retro and recent, aspersions, assertions, discrepancies, inferences, intimations, innuendos, gossip, lies, rumors, suggestions, speculations, zingers (whatever you want to call them) can really…what’s the word or phrase…use a lot of energy and resources that makes you tire of guessing! And so, I am creating a new thread to move this along: "The Q & A Series.” You ask questions. I provide answers. Such as: -Maybe -No -Yes -Partly -True -False -Next -Not! -What? -Fuhgeddaboudit -Get Outta Here (You may insert the qualifiers ‘if', 'and', or 'but’ after each of those.) If I can, I will be as direct and honest, discreet and tactful, and provide context and details for answers, if required and warranted. However, some questions I might not be able to answer at all, in full, or in great detail. In this case, I will tell you why that is: -Private, Intimate, Special Secret -Personal Privacy (I'm not even going to ask someone if I can show and tell, too rude.) -Permission is Required (No Disclosure Without Written Consent Rule) -Protected Information (Established Guidelines for Policies and Procedures, Rules and Regulations; FERPA; HIPPA; Etc.) -Plead the Fifth I have not signed any Non-Disclosure Agreements (Confidentiality Agreements, Proprietary Information Agreements, Confidential Disclosure Agreements), and I won't, but I am mindful. I will respect your privacy, not use your name or identify you in any manner, but might cite our association generically and anonymously. You can message your questions to me privately via LinkedIn and I will try to be as timely as possible in answering. I may wait a few beats to answer to see if there are duplicate questions to avoid repetition. Let's not dally. If you do not want the question answered publicly, then please don’t ask it. Thank you for your consideration and participation! Shane

🩰 Celebrating Women Founders in Ballet 🩰 In honor of the women shaping the dance industry, Dance Data Project® presented a comprehensive listing of women-founded ballet and classically based professional companies in the United States. Tracking these women-founded ballet companies is essential for recognizing the role women play in shaping the American ballet sector. From innovation to regional influence, these companies embody talent, resilience, and endurance. This has the power to inspire aspiring dancers, choreographers, and industry leaders, challenging norms and pushing boundaries. For example, did you know that the first American ballet company, the Chicago Opera Ballet, was established in 1910? Dorothy Alexander made history in 1929 as the first woman to found a ballet company, laying the groundwork for future women pioneers in the field. Despite facing significant obstacles, many of these women established their companies before laws were enacted to protect women's rights. From the Equal Pay Act to the Equal Opportunity in Education Act, these women defied barriers to creating successful ballet companies. Here, 179 ballet companies founded or co-founded by women between 1929 and 2024, were compiled. The data distinguishes between currently active (i.e. Ajkun Ballet Theatre - Founded by Chiara Ajkun in 2000 Alabama Ballet - Founded by Dame Sonia Arova (Thor Sutowski) in 1981 Albany Berkshire Ballet - Founded by Madeline Cantarella in 1969 American Ballet Theatre and defunct/inactive companies, shedding light on the enduring impact of women in ballet. Methods & Limitations: DDP sourced founder names, gender, and years active primarily from company websites, social media, news articles, and archival resources. Despite their best efforts, they acknowledge the possibility that not all women-founded ballet companies are included, and invite contributions and feedback to enhance their understanding of women's contributions to the dance industry. #Arts #Culture #Dance #Ballet #Women #Data #Innovation #Empowerment #Representation #Leadership

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NM Entrepreneurs—Thinking of joining an accelerator? Here's good insight from The Wharton School: "Accelerators that include more training activities, like pitching competitions, advice specific to certain industries, and structured learning sessions, tend to improve startup business success rates after they finish the accelerator. A few in-state accelerators exist for all types of businesses (not just high-growth tech). Choose wisely, AND make sure you are willing to do the work. #NMstartups #NMInno https://lnkd.in/gMMSYVRW

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"Let’s Ascend to Our Higher Minds to Heal Our Civic Souls in a Year When Democracy Itself Is on the World’s Ballots" In a journey to my quarter-century class reunion at The Wharton School, my thoughts turned to the ways leaders must help us climb down from a performative global arms race of primitive mind symbolism and theater. My latest article, which I really hope helps us all in such an important election year and amongst so many geo-political challenges:

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5% of revenue from LMC donated directly to Stacks+Joules A bold assertion of values. A leap to action with immediate and far reaching impact. Lewis Martin is not calling from the backseat. He’s got the pedal to the metal and a firm hand on the wheel allowing only one direction - ONWARD! Talent Incoming. You best believe it! and the front seat’s getting nice and crowded: Henry Street Settlement NYSERDA Autodesk Foundation Buro Happold Ewan French Clair O'Brien Robert Okpala Kelly Jenkins Sabine Lam Jordan Zuber Steven Crowe Realcomm Events TEC Building Systems, LLC Dual Fuel Climatec, LLC Phil Zito Julian Palacios Smart Buildings Academy Scott Cochrane Cochrane Supply & Engineering James Dice Nexus Labs Peter Rose Laura Gibson Tridium Delta Controls Inc. Resolute Building Intelligence George West Michael Melillo AC Powell, JD, CPS Scott Anderson Roxette Melancon Veronica Unnikrishnan. Exec MBA BIG-NYC Building Intelligence Group KODE Labs Bryce Nielsen Thumb’s cramping so please let me know if you’re up here with us!

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ERGs: Platforms for Innovation Let's talk ERG programs as platforms for diverse voices and innovation. Imagine ERGs not just as groups, but as incubators where new ideas blossom, contributing to your organization’s evolution and success. Here’s what’s on the agenda: 1. Fostering a Culture of Innovation: ERGs are more than just meeting groups; they're safe spaces where diverse ideas are welcomed and nurtured. This environment is crucial for fostering a culture of innovation. When people feel safe to share their unique perspectives, that’s where creativity thrives. 2. ERGs as Incubators for New Ideas: Think of ERGs as mini think-tanks within your organization. They're hotbeds for new ideas, offering fresh insights that can drive your company forward. 3. Encouraging Creativity and Diverse Thinking: Diverse thinking leads to creativity, which in turn leads to innovation. It’s about leveraging the varied backgrounds and experiences of ERG members to spark creative solutions. So, to all the innovators, thinkers, and change-makers out there, how is your ERG program serving as platforms for diverse voices and innovation? I’d love to hear about the creative ideas and successes coming out of your ERGs program in the comments below. #ERGProgramManagement #StrategicAlignment #ImpactfulLeadership #EquityAndInclusion 🚀🌟

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We're thrilled to announce the launch of the Google Academic Research Awards (GARA) program! This initiative aims to support groundbreaking foundational and applied research in computing and technology around the world. GARA is designed to foster a collaborative ecosystem between academia and industry. For our inaugural funding cycle, we’re inviting proposals from academics conducting research on a broad spectrum of high impact, global challenges like climate change, education, quantum computing, AI and more. Recipients will receive up to $150,000 in unrestricted gifts and will be paired with a Google Research sponsor, providing extended support and the opportunity to form connections with the broader Google Research community. At Google we understand that solving the world’s greatest challenges requires the world’s greatest ideas. Together, let's push the boundaries of technology and create a better future. Read more about GARA and apply here: https://lnkd.in/eY3ZrQHu #GARA #Google #GoogleResearch #Sponsorship #AI #QuantumComputing #ClimateChange #Education

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Energy use by today’s wealthy and middle-class means #DEGROWTH FACES ENERGY #SCALE — Each human on the planet annually uses 600 times more #energy than was used per capita in 1800. “How the World Really Works” by Vaclav Smil explains the enormous #Scale challenge of that reality! .05 gigajoules per person growing to 35+ today. In 1900 it was 2.5 per person. Adding millions and moving millions more into the 35+ category means Overwhelming efforts at emissions reductions. Degrowth of something #growing that fast is simply not possible. First of all it would take 200 plus years. Second you’d have to decrease the population. Finally and most important, countries would need to go down monumental amounts. Today’s living is 35 gigajoules per person. You’d have to decide to go down to 25, or 20 per person. Life at 20 would be unrecognizable to a 35 gigajoules person. Hundreds of Tests #atscale required where people actually sacrifice to save large amounts of energy. #Middleclass and #rich must give up dozens of options. Otherwise people’s basic energy requirements overwhelm any acceptable per person, energy savings. Homi Kharas Paul Ellingstad Richard Schorske Charley Ansbach Stuart W. Janabai Owens Jay Lund Harriette Brainard Alexandra Biering

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Transfr CEO Bharanidharan Rajakumar spoke with CBS News in Los Angeles about virtual reality being a medium to help individuals "try the job and learn the job before they get on the job." With an aging workforce preparing to retire and a wide range of in-demand careers that require more than a high school diploma but less than a 4-year college degree, virtual reality (#VR) is being used to attract and train the workforce of tomorrow. The workforce landscape has evolved over the decades, and industries like #manufacturing have fallen out of favor with the next generation when they consider their professional futures. Growing up in an old steel town, it's easy to think of manufacturing as smoke stacks and steel mills, but modern manufacturing is robust with technology ranging from automation to artificial intelligence, and now, you can add VR technology as an industry supporter as well. While educational institutions leverage local industry partnerships as a way to introduce students to local workforce needs, VR technology brings a modern approach to on-demand career exploration and job skills training. By leveraging VR technology, users have more access to in-demand careers to not only make them top of mind when considering future choices, but with immersive training simulations based on industry and national training standards, learning the skills needed to thrive once employed has become safer and more accessible for both students and job seekers of varying abilities and career awareness levels. "What's interesting about these jobs is that they don't require a four-year degree but could pay between $50,000 to $100,000 to start," continued Rajakumar. With not every student college-bound after high school graduation, VR programming through Transfr brings more career options to the forefront, allowing learners to make informed decisions that could potentially save them time and money and help them find a career they are truly interested in. Not only is VR an ally to local industry and students, but this technology also benefits educators. Keeping students engaged in lessons continues to be a struggle, but by leveraging technology that students naturally gravitate towards, educators gain a better understanding of student interests, allowing for deeper, personalized instruction. Job-skills mastery tracking allows students to progress at their own pace, while educators can monitor real-time data to identify learner strengths and provide assistance when needed. Transfr is helping bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring the next generation is prepared for the evolving demands of today's job market. By embracing VR, we aren't just training workers; we're inspiring the next generation of innovators and leaders. Interested to learn more? 💥 Send me a direct message 💥 Email me at bbenedict[at]transfrvr[dot]com 💥 See the comments below

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As someone who has had to manually transcribe videos in the past, let me just tell you I am so excited by the advent of AI. I know AI will never replace humans…. But it will replace humans who don’t leverage AI. So it’s our responsibility to have the ongoing conversation about the ethical and appropriate use of AI, especially when it comes to news and media. Join The Video Consortium and New York’s Alex Clark as we start the important talks we need about how to properly apply AI in nonfiction video. Today it is transcription tools. Tomorrow, who knows what new tech will emerge. Follow for more 👇🏽 #technology #artificialintelligence #AItools #AIinvideo #videoAI #video #nonfictionfilm #nonfiction #videojournalism

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From my students at Cornell Tech and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, to our work at Startups & Society Initiative and Responsible Innovation Labs, continue to see the brightest young people hungry for models of business and technology that reject 'growth at all costs' and embrace more deliberate notions of value creation. From climate, to democracy, to public health, the next generation holds deep intuition that value is not captured by 'valuation.' Its not that they outright don't believe in profit, but they know it's essential to build with intention and responsibility, mindful of broader societal impacts. It was a treat to join Keshav Rastogi — a young person already building and leading with his values — for his Podcast "Playgrounds to Pixels." Keshav asks thoughtful questions about the business motivations for responsible tech, my work at MEET - Middle East Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow, and how young people can start thinking about responsible tech. Thanks again for having me, Keshav.

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📣 Thrilled to share the news of our partnership with Women in AI & Robotics, an official UN Women partner and a global nonprofit on a mission to advance female representation and participation in the fields of AI and robotics through advocacy, mentorship, education, targeted programming, and support networks. I met Sheila Beladinejad while at Borealis AI / RBC, and have always supported the community she is building and admired her superpower of bringing people together around common goals. According to a study by Deloitte, women hold less than 30% of roles in artificial intelligence globally. It is exciting to help address the gender gap, for the future of AI to benefit and better reflect our society. "Human feedback is essential to creating AI systems that truly understand and meet diverse real-world needs. We are excited to collaborate on driving responsible innovation, ensuring AI benefits everyone in our society," says Sheila Beladinejad, President of Women in AI & Robotics. At Human Feedback Foundation, we share the common goal to ensure that AI represents the diversity of human experience and to accelerate the development of resilient and better aligned AI systems.

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Reflections on Jack Buckley's Work Reimagining How We Measure Durable Skills Join us to celebrate Jack Buckley's contributions to people science and assessment innovation at Roblox, particularly through pioneering game-based assessment. Jack has made significant strides in evaluating "durable skills" like critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creative problem-solving. These are the essential skills of the future, valued currency for employers, higher education, and states alike. Everyone deserves meaningful work and opportunities to advance. The challenges Jack tackles are urgent and interconnected. Employers perceive talent shortages, while many skilled workers remain stuck in low-wage jobs. Industries struggle to attract diverse talent, and higher education often fails to align with workforce needs. Meanwhile, AI and emerging tech are shifting the importance of skills, emphasizing the value of durable ones. Increased federal investment is needed to support youth as they transition from education to careers and ensure they acquire the skills that matter most. Jack’s work shows how emerging technology and learning science advances enable us to measure what truly counts. Stackable credentials can reduce barriers and decrease the friction within pipelines geared toward regional competitiveness and sector needs. Game-based assessment, like Jack's work, offers a more engaging way to evaluate skills and competencies, setting a new standard. Jack has shown that game- or simulation-based assessment offers more engaging and immersive approaches and reshapes how we evaluate skills and competencies. His commitment to evidence-based design and innovative thinking sets a new standard for assessment in education and the workforce. Congratulations, Jack, on your remarkable achievements! We look forward to seeing your continued impact on assessment and analytics. Auditi Chakravarty, Kim Smith, Matthew Soldner, Kumar Garg, Tom Kalil, Jessica Heppen, Lesley Muldoon, Eva L. Baker, Howard Everson, James Pellegrino, Ben Wallerstein, Trevor Packer, Jason Hoekstra, Dakarai I. Aarons, Edmund Gordon, Kadriye Ercikan, Jennifer Randall, Elizabeth Albro, PhD, James L. Moore III, Andreas Oranje, Mario Piacentini, Carissa Moffat Miller, Stephen Plank, Susan Lyons, Denise Forte, Mary Ryerse, Michele Cahill, Aneesha Badrinarayan, Jim Kohlmoos, Greg Chung, Jeremy Roberts, Ed Dieterle, John Bailey, Jessica Lindl, Scott Marion, Kristen DiCerbo, Kristen Huff, Mark Schneider

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