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Ausilio Design owner and designer, Michael Ausilio, is changing the architecture industry norm with economical pricing and transparency, being the sole designer, drafter, presenter, and communicator.

For many homeowners and developers, hiring an architect feels like a non-negotiable first step in new constructions, additions, or renovation projects. The profession of architecture itself holds weight, evoking prestige, expertise, and necessity. But as construction costs soar and economic pressures mount, many are beginning to ask: Is an architect always essential, and why does it cost so much?

In short: not necessarily, and it’s complicated.

In fact, depending on the size and scope of your project, your local or state law may not require one at all. In states like Washington, residential structures under 4,000 square feet don’t need an architect’s stamp. For these smaller-scale builds, families and developers alike are finding a smarter, more affordable alternative: working with residential designers like Michael Ausilio.

Ausilio, the founder of Ausilio Design, is part of a growing movement pushing back on the assumption that architects are a universal requirement. He explains with numbers: “Suppose an architecture firm wants to design a million-dollar home. They’re going to charge around 8–12%, which is $80,000–$120,000, because they’ve got a team of ten people and heavy overhead to cover.”

But before throwing the architecture profession under the bus, it is important to understand why their rates are what they are. It is not greed but structure. “It’s expensive to become an architect,” Ausilio says. “They’re paying for licensure, insurance, ongoing education, and continuing certifications, every single year. Clients end up covering those costs, whether they realize it or not.”

That’s before factoring in additional staff and consultants that often work under one architecture umbrella. When one hires a firm, they’re not just hiring one professional but hiring the whole team. One for drawing, another for project management, and a third for concept design. “Every piece is often handled by someone different,” Ausilio adds. “Even though you’re paying one lump sum, it’s being split across multiple people; sometimes even separate companies.”

This disjointed model can be a recipe for confusion and inefficiency, and the invoices often keep coming long after the work feels done.

Ausilio is not an architect, and that’s exactly the point. He’s a residential designer and CAD specialist with over a decade of experience designing everything from custom tooling to home renovations. Unlike traditional firms, he operates as a one-man powerhouse, combining client meetings, design work, drafting, and technical expertise himself. “I deal directly with the client. I’m the drafter. I’m the designer. There’s no middleman. And I’m fast because I’ve done it a thousand times.”

Ausilio’s hands-on, streamlined approach dramatically reduces overhead, which means lower prices for clients. But more importantly, it reduces confusion and miscommunication. “When you work with me, you’re talking to the person actually creating the drawings. This is true collaboration, to the very definition. In fact, I do live sessions with my clients where they witness the idea coming to life through the power of technology. I bring them into my world, I turn them into a designer in their own right. That means no lost details, no guesswork, and no delays.”

Despite this, most people don’t even realize that residential designers exist. “People assume an architect is the only option because it’s the most well-known title,” says Ausilio. “But when architects are turning down garage projects because the margins aren’t there, it’s designers like me who fill that void.”

For projects that do require an architect’s stamp, such as commercial work or homes over 4,000 sq. ft., Ausilio partners with licensed professionals early in the process to provide what he calls a “pseudo architecture firm.” It’s a collaborative structure that maintains liability while keeping costs down, all without compromising on expertise. “Legally, an architect needs to be involved from the beginning for certain projects. So we bring them in early, pay them for their stamp and review, and the client gets a full-service experience, without paying the full-service price.”

One of Ausilio Design’s biggest selling points is financial transparency. “With big architecture firms, you’ll get a vague estimate. And then the add-ons begin. It’s like a faucet you can’t turn off,” he says. “With me, clients see everything up front: scope, cost, timeline, payment schedule. There are no surprises.”

Ausilio didn’t set out to become a disruptor, it’s just that his mentors were. “I just love designing,” adds Ausilio. He started in research and development, working on robotics and prototyping. But it was residential drafting that hooked him. “It was just fun. I like talking to homeowners, solving problems, and making ideas real.”

After juggling two jobs for several years, he launched Ausilio Design full-time during COVID-19 and never looked back. “The demand exploded. I partnered with a local engineer, took on more structural work, and started designing homes from the ground up. And technology has only made it easier.”

The key is understanding what your project actually requires and not defaulting to the most expensive option out of habit. “People should know their choices. That’s all I’m trying to do; educate them.”

Today, Ausilio’s work stretches across neighborhoods, counties, and state lines. But his motivations remain deeply personal. “My dad was a carpenter,” he says. “He is a talented craftsman and the hardest worker I have ever known. He built things with his hands. I’m proud to be doing the same, just in my own way.”

The architectural industry may be built on prestige and influence, but Ausilio Design’s success proves there’s another path: one grounded in skill, service, and substance. “For me, it’s about creating something lasting. Helping people. And building a legacy that inspires others.”

About Ausilio Design

Ausilio Design, founded by Michael Ausilio in 2018, is an architectural and design business with expertise in residential design, committed to creating personalized and comfortable spaces tailored to each client’s unique needs. It serves clients in Friday Harbor and throughout Washington. Services include AutoCAD, 3D modeling, structural drafting, and interior layouts for kitchens and bathrooms. The company guides homeowners and builders through the permit process with code-compliant, buildable designs. With a commitment to accuracy and fast approvals, the company provides practical and creative solutions. For more information, visit www.ausiliodesign.com.

Media Contact

Michael Ausilio
michael@ausiliodesign.com

RRA Capital, a leading commercial real estate debt fund manager, announced today that it has surpassed $2 billion in total loan originations since the firm’s inception. The milestone reflects the company’s disciplined investment approach, strong borrower relationships, and ability to deploy capital across market cycles.

Founded in 2009, RRA Capital provides flexible, structured bridge financing for transitional commercial real estate nationwide. The firm specializes in value-add and opportunistic scenarios, offering customized debt solutions that support property repositioning, lease-up strategies, and recapitalizations. Its consistent performance has made RRA a trusted capital partner for sponsors navigating complex or time-sensitive transactions.

“$2 billion in the small-balance bridge lending space is like $40 billion in the typical institutional bridge loan space because it's more than 265 loans, which is a lot of successful executions,” said Boots Dunlap, CEO and co-founder of RRA Capital. “Small loans take the same amount of time as large loans, sometimes more; however, represent an attractive opportunity for increased risk-adjusted returns which is why we’ve chosen to stay focused on the niche.”

Over the past decade, RRA has originated loans across all major property types and in markets throughout the U.S., adapting its strategy to capitalize on changing economic conditions. The firm’s nimble investment structure has enabled it to navigate volatility while delivering risk-adjusted returns to its investors.

“Our ability to reach $2 billion in originations is a direct result of our team’s commitment to quality and our confidence in real estate as a dynamic, evolving asset class,” said Marc Grayson, president and co-founder of RRA Capital. “We’re proud to be a reliable partner in a space where reliability matters most.”

RRA continues to actively originate loans of $5 million and up, with a focus on institutional-quality borrowers seeking speed, flexibility, and structuring expertise. The firm’s track record of performance, even in periods of market dislocation, reinforces its position as a premier lender in the middle-market bridge lending space.

About RRA Capital

RRA Capital is a leading commercial real estate debt fund manager specializing in structured bridge financing for transitional properties nationwide. Since its founding in 2008, RRA has originated over $2 billion in loans, providing flexible capital solutions to value-add and opportunistic real estate investors.

The firm focuses on complex, time-sensitive transactions and offers customized structures that support property repositioning, lease-up strategies, and recapitalizations. With a disciplined investment approach and a proven track record through market cycles, RRA is a trusted partner to borrowers and institutional investors seeking performance, transparency, and alignment.

Learn more at www.rracapital.com.

Media Contact

Hallie White
hwhite@rracapital.com

On June 3, 2025, the "Don’t Criminalize Me" rally gathers at the Louisiana State Capitol to ask Governor Landry to veto Senate Bill 154.

What:

Louisiana kratom advocates, veterans, small business owners, and concerned citizens will gather on the Capitol steps for the “Don’t Criminalize Me” Rally to urge Governor Jeff Landry to veto Senate Bill 154, which would criminalize the possession and use of kratom by over 325,000 Louisianans. Louisiana and national media is strongly encouraged to attend and contact for details.

When:

Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at 2:00 PM Central Time

Where:

Louisiana State Capitol, located at 900 North 3rd Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Why:

Senate Bill 154 threatens to unjustly criminalize law-abiding citizens—including many veterans—who responsibly use kratom as part of their health and wellness routines. The rally will call on the Governor to veto SB154 and instead establish a Louisiana Kratom Commission to:

• Study the safety and addiction profile of kratom products,
• Identify and address the dangers of adulterated or synthetically enhanced kratom,
• Provide recommendations for a science-based regulatory framework that protects consumers without criminalizing them.

Advocates will share personal stories and expert perspectives supporting appropriate regulations and age restriction evidence-based policy—not fear-driven bans.

Visuals:

Signs, banners, personal testimonials, and a peaceful crowd demanding consumer protection—not criminalization.

Media Inquiries:

Contact Mac Haddow, Senior Fellow on Public Policy for the American Kratom Association, at 571-294-5978 or press@americankratom.org.

About American Kratom Association (AKA)

American Kratom Association (AKA) is a consumer-based, nonprofit organization, focused on furthering the latest science as guidance for kratom public policy. AKA works to give a voice to millions of Americans by fighting to protect their rights to access safe and natural kratom. For more information, visit americankratom.org and learn more at kratomanswers.org.

Media Contact

Mac Haddow
mhaddow@americankratom.org

The Global Kratom Coalition (GKC) celebrates the passage of Colorado Senate Bill 25-072, the Daniel Bregger Act, a landmark amendment to the state’s Kratom Consumer Protection Act. Signed into law by Governor Jared Polis, this legislation strengthens consumer safety standards for kratom products, limits dangerous mislabeled synthetic derivatives, and protects against deceptive marketing practices.

The bill is named in honor of Dan Bregger, a Denver resident who tragically lost his life on August 29, 2021, after consuming a highly concentrated, highly potent product that had no serving directions, indications for safe use, or appropriate warnings. Dan's father, David Bregger, has since been a tireless and exceptionally brave advocate for strong regulatory safeguards to prevent similar tragedies from devastating other families, while also understanding the value in low-potency natural kratom products.

“So much could’ve prevented Dan’s death, such as basic consumer protections, clear labeling, dosage instructions, and prohibiting these dangerous concentrated products synthesized from kratom,” said David Bregger. “I fight in honor of my son so it will mean something. Today is further vindication. I thank the lawmakers and advocates who fought alongside me to get this bill passed.”

SB25-072 was spearheaded by Sen. Kyle Mullica and co-sponsored by Senator Byron Pelton, Rep. Mandy Lindsay, and Rep. Matt Soper. With bipartisan support, legislators saw the urgent need to bring kratom regulation in line with other states that are creating and strengthening versions of the Kratom Consumer Protection Act.

“We are deeply grateful to the Colorado General Assembly for taking decisive action to clearly distinguish what is kratom and what is not, restricting high-potency and synthetic products, and making all kratom products more transparent for consumers,” said Matthew Lowe, Executive Director of the Global Kratom Coalition. “This legislation is a big step towards a safe marketplace. We especially thank the bill author and supporters for their vision to author the legislation and Governor Jared Polis for his leadership in signing this bill into law and honoring Colorado’s commitment to evidence-based regulation.”

Key Provisions of the Daniel Bregger Act (SB25-072)

• Limits 7-hydroxymitragynine (known as 7) to no more than 2% of total alkaloid content in any kratom product.
• Prohibits synthetic and semi-synthetic alkaloids and adulterated products.
• Bans sales to individuals under 21 and any marketing targeted toward minors.
• Requires transparent labeling, including alkaloid content per serving, serving limits, interactions and other warnings, and manufacturer information.
• Bans kratom vaporizers and confection-style products that could appeal to children.
• Treats violations as deceptive trade practices, enforceable under state law.

“The passing of this KCPA amendment directly addresses the bad actors who are introducing novel synthetic products into the market that are disguised as kratom. These products are not kratom, they are chemically manipulated de facto opioids that are misleading consumers into unsafe, untested, and harmful consumption choices,” said Lowe.

About Global Kratom Coalition

The Global Kratom Coalition is an alliance of kratom consumers, experts, and industry leaders dedicated to protecting access to kratom while advancing scientific research, driving consumer education, and developing robust regulations to protect consumers. For more information, visit globalkratomcoalition.org.

Media Contact

Patrick George
info@globalkratomcoalition.org
+1 916-202-1982

Kristal, an AI-powered digital wealth management platform based in the Middle East and Singapore, today announced the launch of its $25–$30 million Series B fundraising round, with a potential secondary of an additional $15–20 million, as it capitalizes on record growth and strategic market penetration. The capital injection, advised by Ambit Private, will accelerate expansion in India, MEA, and Southeast Asia while advancing proprietary agentic AI technology critical to its hybrid advisory mode.

Series B Strategic Priorities 

Proceeds will drive three core initiatives:

• Scaling India Operations: Expanding discretionary asset management and B2B2C partnerships to capture India’s booming mass affluent segment, projected to contribute 40–45% of revenues by 2030. 
• Middle East–India Corridor: Strengthening Abu Dhabi’s ADGM foothold and launching structured products to serve cross-border wealth flows, leveraging recent regulatory approvals. 
• AI-Driven Platform Enhancements: Deploying capital toward agentic AI systems that further develop predictive analytics, natural language portfolio queries and advanced risk management algorithms to personalize portfolio management for clients with $100K–$5M in assets

Proprietary AI Technology

At the core of Kristal's growth is its proprietary agentic AI platform that transforms wealth management for both clients and relationship managers:

• For Clients: AI agents provide 24/7 portfolio monitoring, automatic rebalancing based on market conditions and risk profiles, and personalized investment recommendations previously available only to ultra-high-net-worth individuals. The AI continuously analyzes market data and client behavior to optimize investment outcomes in the $100K–$5M segment.
• For Relationship Managers: AI-enhanced tools increase RM productivity, while improving client satisfaction. The system automatically identifies client needs, optimizes engagement timing, and provides data-driven investment insights, allowing RMs to focus on high-value relationship building rather than administrative tasks.

Investor Targeting and Timeline

Kristal aims to secure 10–20% equity dilution from growth-stage VCs, PE firms, and family offices aligned with its Asia-centric strategy. Geographic focus prioritizes investors in India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, reflecting markets where the firm has achieved 60% YoY revenue growth and $2B+ AUM. The round is slated to close by Q3 2025, with an IPO potential in 4–5 years across Singapore, NASDAQ, or Indian exchanges.

Leadership Commentary 

“This fundraise isn’t just about capital—it’s about partnering with visionaries who recognize the wealth management opportunity in Asia and MEA,” said Asheesh Chanda, founder and Global CIO of Kristal. “Our B2B2C model, now 55% of revenue, proves that institutional-grade investing can be democratized. With EBITDA breakeven achieved and PBT targets in sight, we’re poised to redefine private banking for the digital age.”

Growth Metrics Driving Investor Confidence 

• $2B+ AUM (2024), doubling since 2022. 
• 55% revenue from B2B2C partnerships with banks, brokers, and wealth advisors. 
• Regulatory licenses including MAS (Singapore), SFC (Hong Kong), SEBI (India), and ADGM (UAE).
• 4,000+ global products, including crypto, private markets, and structured notes.

Forward-Looking Vision 

Post-funding Kristal will deepen collaborations with financial institutions and explore M&A opportunities in the Middle East. The firm targets $100–125M annual revenue by IPO, aligning with Asia’s projected 9.4% CAGR in wealth management.

About Kristal

Kristal is a digital private wealth platform serving mass affluent and emerging HNIs across 25+ countries. Combining AI-driven strategies with human expertise, we offer access to global markets via a hybrid model compliant with MAS, SFC, SEBI, and ADGM regulations. With offices in Singapore, India, Hong Kong, and Abu Dhabi, Kristal employs 100+ professionals from institutions like JP Morgan and Citibank. For more information, visit www.kristal.ai.

Media Contact

Aishwarya Singh
Aishwarya.singh@kristal.ai
+65 9239 1022

The Botanical Artists Mini-Expo will be held on June 6 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Tuckahoe Area Library, located at 1901 Starling Dr. in Henrico County, Virginia.

Featured artist, The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wright, will greet and talk with visitors. "Redbud Tree," one of two of her illustrations in the exhibit on plants and pollinators, is an identified "Plant of CARE."

Other participants will demo the tools and techniques of the botanical artist trade as well as help attendees draw a plant from real specimens with watercolor pencils. For kids, there will be plenty of activities, including butterfly coloring sheets, make-a-flower-and-bee craft, learning how mushrooms save bees, and making botanical zines and acquiring botanical tattoos (in lieu of face painting). 

A video playing in the background—beekeepers at work—is provided via courtesy of Sylvia Hoehns Wright.

Artist, author, and lecturer Sylvia Hoehns Wright has been featured for her woodland gardens by Birds & Blooms magazine and in Richmond newspapers and is recognized nationwide as an eco-sustainability advocate, backpage columnist, and TV radio personality. To inspire others, Wright exhibits her art during Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden events and uses it to illustrate plants in her "Plants of CARE" program.

The expo is sponsored by Central Virginia Botanical Artists, an affiliate of the American Society of Botanical Artists (ASBA).

For details visit: https://asba-art.org/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=92618&module_id=727964

About The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wright

A graduate of the Virginia Natural Resource Leadership Institute program and a recipient of the "Turning America from Eco-weak to Eco-chic" award, The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wright urges all to keep America beautiful and become people who CARE—have a perspective of conservation, accountability, recovery and eco-efficiency. To inspire others, she offers one-on-one consulting, speeches and workshops and has published a series of eco books.

For more information, visit www.thewrightscoop.com, email syhwright@gmail.com, or follow her activities on social media through Facebook group The Wright Scoop or @WrightScoop on Twitter/X.

Media Contact

Sylvia Hoehns Wright
syhwright@gmail.com

Leveraging its strength in digital health innovation, Qure.ai has launched AIRA—a new AI-powered co-pilot tool for frontline healthcare workers in resource-constrained geographies—this week during the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva. 

AIRA is designed to optimize limited healthcare resources in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) by supporting AI-enabled digitization of symptoms and patient history collection; clinical protocol adherence and decision support; and aggregated population health insights.

There are 17 million preventable deaths in LMICs and an estimated shortage of 11 million health workers by 2030. At the same time, more than 40% of community health workers’ time is spent on manual data collection, and yet countries do not have population-level data to make informed decisions. AIRA aims to solve this urgent need by freeing up precious health worker time to engage more with patients, while digitizing data automatically.

Speaking at the World Health Assembly side-event on AI, Prashant Warier, CEO and founder of Qure.ai, said, “With AI, we can make a seismic shift towards health equity in LMICs. AIRA in the hands of every healthcare worker will free up their time for more patient interactions via automated data collection and better clinical protocol adherence. With AI, we can multiply every dollar spent and realize significantly more impact and returns in LMIC health systems. We have demonstrated this in our last 10 years in TB and are motivated to do the same now for primary healthcare.”

Dr. Michel Sidibé, Special Envoy at the African Union, said, “Health ministries in developing nations need to deliver healthcare to their populations at a fraction of the budget compared to developed countries. We have to be creative to make this happen. Digital health and AI are most certainly catalysts to improve efficiency, access, and quality of care.”

AIRA is an AI co-pilot for healthcare workers in LMICs. It is built on large language models (LLMs) with a deep understanding of low- and middle-income country health systems and needs. It is designed to reduce administrative workload and free up time for better patient care, while enabling better protocol adherence and population insights.

About Qure.ai

Qure.ai is a health tech company that uses deep learning and artificial intelligence (AI) to make healthcare more accessible and equitable for patients worldwide. Our solutions power the efficient identification and management of tuberculosis (TB), lung cancer and stroke to support clinicians and propel developments in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries. We empower healthcare by helping to identify conditions fast, prioritize treatment planning and ultimately improve quality of patient life. For more information, visit www.qure.ai.

Media Contact

Amrutha Joseph
amrutha.joseph@qure.ai

Amid evolving geopolitical efforts, global leaders such as U.S. President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva are engaging in discussions aimed at facilitating peace between Russia and Ukraine. In parallel, some European counterparts continue to advocate for further arms support to prolong resistance efforts on the battlefield.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated openness to substantive negotiations, including with Ukraine and what he refers to as its “curators.” Nevertheless, active conflict continues, involving significant military personnel on both sides.

In a notable development, the Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers has approved a draft law that would require Russian prisoners of war to contribute taxes to the national treasury. Concurrently, Ukrainian social networks have circulated reports suggesting the potential confiscation of assets from Ukrainian military personnel who have defected to Russia.

Kovalik observes that the morale of Ukrainian forces may be impacted by a combination of shifting international dynamics, strained mobilization resources, and declining foreign military support. Reports have also emerged about Ukrainian prisoners of war refusing exchange due to concerns about being returned to front-line duties.

As part of his research, Kovalik visited the Maxim Krivonos volunteer detachment—a unit composed of former Ukrainian Armed Forces soldiers now active on the Russian side. During this visit, he conducted interviews and gathered insights that contrast with prevailing media narratives.

“The detachment is not a part of the Russian military but a volunteer formation made up entirely of Ukrainians,” noted the unit’s deputy commander, known by the call sign "Zhak." According to the unit’s members, their actions are driven by a sense of loyalty to the Ukrainian people rather than any current government.

Kovalik emphasized the complexity of the situation facing prisoners of war and their families. “Their futures remain uncertain, and any resolution must consider both legal and humanitarian dimensions in accordance with international norms,” he stated. Kovalik also noted that his ongoing research on this issue will be published in the near future.

Further details and the original article are available via the Center for Geostrategic Studies at geostrategy.rs.

Video footage of the detachment visit is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgwL18SIZzM

Media Contact

Rod Chu
press@geostrategy.rs

Amidst persistent inflation and high interest rates, Ty J. Young Wealth Management's Investor’s Guide video has become a highly downloaded resource for retirement planning. The guide walks investors through navigating the complexities of retirement investing in the current economic climate and solutions for mitigating volatility.

Ty J. Young Wealth Management curated the video guide in response to ubiquitous concerns from investors across the country about market volatility and risks to retirement portfolios.

"Our goal is to provide investors with more than just information; we want to deliver clarity and confidence,” says Ty Young, CEO of Ty J. Young Wealth Management.

The Ty J. Young Wealth Management Investors Guide is available for free at: www.tyjyoung.com.

About Ty J. Young Wealth Management

Established in 1998, Ty J. Young Wealth Management is a leading independent wealth management firm committed to providing comprehensive financial solutions. With over $1 billion in assets under management and serving more than 7,000 clients across the nation, the firm is renowned for its expertise in investment management, retirement planning, and insurance. Ty Young and the firm's strategists are frequently sought after for their insights, appearing in prominent media outlets such as CNBC, Forbes, and Fox Business. Discover how Ty J. Young Wealth Management can help you achieve your financial goals at: www.tyjyoung.com.

Media Contact

Richard Lorenzen
rlorenzen@fifthavenuebrands.com

Human+Tech Week, the premier summit at the intersection of AI and human flourishing, will take place June 17–19, 2025, in San Francisco. Founded by Nichol Bradford—investor, futurist, and workplace innovator—and co-hosted by Niremia Collective and AIify, the event brings together global leaders across technology, healthcare, enterprise, and organizational design to build a future where AI helps us heal, grow, and thrive.

In a World Chasing Artificial Intelligence, One Tech Summit Dares to Ask: What Do Humans Need?

While most technology events spotlight tools, Human+Tech Week focuses on outcomes—human outcomes. Every keynote, workshop, and session begins with one principle: human well-being is the benchmark for tech progress. The long-term promise of AI is extraordinary—but the transition could break society if we don’t prepare the human side fast enough. Human+Tech is designed to help us make that leap—by reshaping mindsets, supporting healing, building high-functioning human-AI teams, and enabling the creation of new technologies and entirely new jobs.  

A New Framework for the AI Age

The Human+Tech Summit isn’t organized by industry or trend—it’s built around six human-centered themes that offer a blueprint for flourishing in a tech-driven world:

• VITAL – Preventative health and longevity
• MESH – Mental, emotional, and social health
• PEAK – Individual and organizational performance
• SYNC – Collective intelligence and collaboration
• SOUL – Purpose, meaning and human consciousness
• CITY – Environments that enable people to thrive

“Nichol Bradford is the master curator of our time—she’s been integrating technology and human potential long before the world caught on. With Human+Tech Week, she offers a meta-level framework that helps us see what few can: the true scope of our human potential. It’s a visionary convening that doesn’t just reflect the future—it shapes it. After this, we’ll never see ourselves the same way again,” said Elissa Epel, Ph.D., professor and vice chair in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).

Lineup Like No Other

The 2025 speaker roster brings together over 200 pioneers—from neuroscientists and AI founders to CHROs, researchers, and futurists—co-designing the future of human-machine collaboration. Who should attend? Founders, HR leaders, investors, researchers, and creators building a human-centered future at the intersection of AI, well-being, and performance.

Featured speakers include:

• Esther Dyson, tech investor and health innovation advocate (founder of Wellville)
• Steven Kotler, executive director at Flow Research Collective and bestselling author
• Sean White, Ph.D., CEO of Inflection AI
• Heidi Roddenberry, chair of the Roddenberry Foundation
• DeCarlos Love, CEO of Thrive AI Health, a JV between Arianna Huffington's Thrive Global and OpenAI Startup Fund
• Nanea Reeves, founder and CEO of TRIPP
• Paul J. Zak, Ph.D., neuroscientist and founder of Immersion Neuroscience
• Thomas Insel, M.D., former director of the National Institute of Mental Health and founder of AdvocateMH 
• Daniel Kraft, M.D., founder of NextMed Health
• Kelly Monahan, Ph.D., managing director at Upwork Research Institute
• Dave Asprey, founder of Upgrade Labs and "father of biohacking"
• Marjorie Morrison, founder of Psych Hub and executive-in-residence for Mental Health at SHRM
• Tony Seba, economist and co-founder of RethinkX
• Barney Pell, AI pioneer and entrepreneur whose early innovations in conversational interfaces helped shape today’s voice and agent technologies
• Stacy Shulman, vice president of Health, Education & Consumer Industries at Intel and expert in accessible innovation at scale

Designed for Real Human Connection

Human+Tech Week reimagines the conference experience through speaker and peer-led discussions, daily wellness and immersive rituals, and curated networking that fosters trust, collaboration, and action.

Where else can a neuroscientist, an AI founder, a Buddhist monk, an ex-Navy SEAL and a CHRO design the future of work together?

Human+Tech Week 2025 is proudly supported by NEC Solution Innovators, Ltd., Inflection AI, and Magic AI, with media partners including The What and more to be announced.

The flagship Human+Tech Summit takes place June 17–19 at One Beach Street in San Francisco.

For tickets, the full speaker lineup, and agenda, visit: www.humantechweek.com

About Human+Tech Week

Human+Tech Week is the premier global event dedicated to exploring how technology can unlock human potential. Held annually in San Francisco, the week-long gathering brings together visionary founders, investors, researchers, and enterprise leaders at the forefront of human well-being, performance and longevity. From AI and neuroscience to future of work and emotional health, Human+Tech Week bring together those shaping the future. Learn more at www.humantechweek.com.

About Nicol Bradford

Nichol Bradford is a futurist, investor, and strategist focused on amplifying human potential through technology. She is the founder and chief curator of Human+Tech Week, executive-in-residence for AI + Human Intelligence (AI+HI) at SHRM, and co-founder and partner at Niremia Collective, a venture fund investing in technologies.

About NIREMIA Collective

NIREMIA Collective is a Silicon Valley-based early-stage venture capital and advisory firm focused on Human Tech. Co-founded by Naoko Okumoto and Nichol Bradford, the firm manages a $22.5M Fund I and is strategically positioned to invest in the rapidly growing $8.5 trillion Wellbeing & Wellness market projected by 2027. Through deep integration with the world’s largest and most respected well-being and human tech ecosystem, NIREMIA offers proprietary access to exceptional deal flow and expert insights. Learn more at www.niremia.vc. 

Media Contact

Nichol Bradford
nichol@humantechweek.com

TeamSec announced it has appointed three distinguished executives to its board of directors, each with over 90 years of global experience: former ICD CEO Ayman Amin Sejiny, Rasmal Ventures partner Alex Wiedmer, and Neeraj Makin, senior executive vice president at Emirates NBD.

TeamSec is an AI-powered next-generation fintech and regtech company offering solutions in capital optimization and working capital liquidity. Its services are delivered through a fully automated, end-to-end securitization and invoice financing platform. Rapidly becoming a key player in its industry, TeamSec is strengthening its leadership team with executives who have a proven track record on the global stage. In this new era, TeamSec strengthens its leadership by appointing Ayman Amin Sejiny as vice chairman and adding Alex Wiedmer and Neeraj Makin to the board of directors.

"Welcoming Ayman Amin Sejiny, former CEO of ICD; Alex Wiedmer, partner at Rasmal Ventures; and Neeraj Makin, senior vice president at Emirates NBD, to our board marks a defining moment in TeamSec’s journey," said Esad Erkam Köroğlu, CEO of TeamSec. “Their extensive global experience in investment banking, venture capital, and strategic innovation perfectly aligns with our mission to transform capital markets through our AI-powered securitization as a service solutions. Rather than symbolic, expanding our board is a deliberate move to strengthen our capabilities in entering new markets and navigating regulatory environments.”

Corporate and Investment Banking Leader: Ayman Amin Sejiny

Ayman Amin Sejiny brings more than 30 years of leadership in corporate and investment banking. He has served as CEO of Barclays Saudi Arabia, Ibdar Bank, Alkhair Bank (formerly Unicorn Investment Bank), and—most recently—the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD), the private-sector arm of the Islamic Development Bank Group, which spans 55 member countries, maintains LOF relationships with 120 banks, and manages a portfolio of private-equity investments. Earlier in his career, Sejiny held corporate banking roles at Citibank and the Saudi affiliate of ABN AMRO. Throughout these assignments, he has driven strategic growth and forged partnerships in e-commerce, cash management, and cutting-edge fintech solutions.

Venture Capital Veteran with 25 Years of Experience: Alex Wiedmer

Joining TeamSec’s board of directors, Alex Wiedmer is recognized for his over 25 years of venture capital experience across Europe, North America, and the MENA region. Currently a partner and director at Qatar-based Rasmal Ventures, Wiedmer was previously a long-time partner at Paris-based Iris Capital. During that time, he also served on the investment committee of STC Ventures, a pioneering VC fund in the Gulf region that achieved top-decile returns. With a strong track record in venture capital and entrepreneurial finance, Wiedmer has made over 60 investments in more than 50 companies.

Strategist Shaping the Future of Banking: Neeraj Makin

Another new addition to the board of directors is Neeraj Makin, who serves as group head of strategy, analytics, and venture capital at Emirates NBD and is a member of the executive committee. Makin has shaped the bank’s long-term growth strategies and led major acquisitions, including BNP Paribas Egypt and DenizBank in Turkey. He also spearheaded the bank’s international expansion by securing branch licenses in Saudi Arabia and India. In addition, he leads the corporate VC fund that invests in advanced analytics centres and promising fintech start-ups. With a background at EY and McKinsey, Makin brings deep mergers, acquisitions, and business strategy expertise.

These appointments to TeamSec’s corporate governance team will play a pivotal role in shaping the future infrastructure of capital markets and propelling the company to greater heights. TeamSec raised $7.6 million earlier this year to scale its AI-powered securitization platform and accelerate growth across the MENA region. The investment was led by Deniz Ventures, the venture capital fund of DenizBank established under the Emirates NBD Innovation Fund—the Corporate Venture Capital arm of Emirates NBD Group—and Rasmal Ventures, a leading Doha-based venture capital firm.

TeamSec is committed to providing working capital and liquidity solutions to banks, financial institutions, and nonbank financial institutions through its end-to-end AI-powered securitization platform. Learn more at teamsecfin.com.

About TeamSec

TeamSec is a next-generation fintech and regtech innovator, delivering AI-powered capital optimization and working-capital liquidity solutions via a fully automated, end-to-end securitization and invoice-financing platform. Our cloud-native, machine-learning infrastructure digitizes the entire securitization lifecycle—from asset selection and SPV setup through issuance and investor reporting—enabling faster, more flexible, and compliant access to capital markets. Operating across Türkiye, the Gulf region, and the United Kingdom, TeamSec empowers financial institutions and corporates alike to issue asset- and mortgage-backed securities or scale through digital credit solutions with zero operational burden. For more information, visit teamsecfin.com.

Media Contact

Pirix Media Visibility for Startups
cigdem@pirix.co

Aampe, the agentic AI infrastructure company enabling adaptive personalization at enterprise scale, announced today the expansion of its U.S. operations following a year of significant growth. The company has quadrupled its annual recurring revenue (ARR) and is now powering over 100 trillion AI-driven decisions each month for brands across media and entertainment, retail and on-demand commerce, travel and hospitality, and financial technology.

Legacy customer engagement and experience platforms are built on rigid rules and static user segments, in contrast to Aampe’s infrastructure which deploys autonomous agents that experiment, learn, and optimize consumer participation in real time. The system allows marketing and product teams to evolve from fixed, prescriptive logic to truly adaptive software that aligns with user behavior. Leveraged by innovative global businesses including Grab, Taxfix, Swiggy, Traveloka, and Mr. D, Aampe is helping dynamic teams customize and personalize all surfaces and touch points to dramatically uplevel performance.

Conventional approaches to personalizing digital products have relied on humans manually creating rules and segments to determine what users see and when. This approach requires teams to manually orchestrate the message or product surface that will best serve the end user’s interests, whether they’re making a purchase, evaluating content options, or trying new features. Aampe's infrastructure takes a fundamentally different approach, deploying a unique AI agent for each user that continuously learns from interactions and intelligently decides what to show, when to show it, and most importantly, whether to show anything at all. Designed to continuously monitor usage and engagement data, each agent skillfully observes and learns the user's changing preferences. Agents are then responsible for translating inferences into optimal management of the user’s interactions with the product enabling genuine 1:1 personalization even for products that serve tens of millions of users every day.

"Agentic AI is still a new concept for many marketers but the shift is already underway. There’s a growing gap between what users expect and what most brands deliver,” said Paul Meinshausen, Aampe co-founder and CEO. “The answer isn’t more segmentation or A/B testing—it’s letting software do what it does best, continuously improving based on each individual’s behavior.”

Rather than using traditional machine learning or generative AI alone, Aampe's infrastructure leverages reinforcement learning to enable continuous, parallelized experimentation. Each agent learns and adapts in real time, helping their user manage their attention and make complex choices in a world of material and content abundance. The agents operationalize their decisions by intelligently managing a range of existing product and marketing tools—including data platforms and warehouses, marketing delivery platforms, and product analytics tools—allowing companies to extract more value from their current technology investments.

“Throughout my career, I’ve been massively motivated by technology’s transformative forces with communications and consumer experiences,” said Matt McRoberts, Chief Business Officer. “Aampe is foundational infrastructure technology for the next wave of enterprise software and literally rewriting the rules for personalization, growth marketing, and product performance. As AI becomes more agentic, businesses need infrastructure that adapts in real time, learns autonomously, and respects the complexity of individual users. Aampe delivers that at scale and is establishing pole position as the leader in this emerging category.”

“Agentic AI represents a fundamental shift in how software interacts with people—and Aampe is leading that shift,” said Andy Triedman, Partner at Aampe investor Theory Ventures. “Their ability to operationalize adaptive learning across complex customer environments sets them apart. We backed Aampe because they’re not just building for today’s personalization challenges—they’re designing the infrastructure that will define the next decade of customer experience.”

Supporting this momentum, market research underscores a growing demand:

• The global agentic AI market is projected to grow from $5.2B in 2024 to $196.6B by 2034 (CAGR of 43.8%).
• By 2028, agentic AI is expected to handle 68% of all customer support interactions with tech vendors.
• Approximately 65% of consumers express strong interest in agentic AI for receiving personalized recommendations and customer service, highlighting a significant shift towards AI-driven personalization.
• A recent Capgemini survey revealed that 50% of business executives plan to implement AI agents in 2025, a significant increase from the 10% currently employing them. This adoption rate is anticipated to rise to 82% within three years.

Aampe will showcase its latest innovations at the Cannes Lions Creativity Festival and host a Media and Entertainment brunch on June 17, 2025. To learn more about Aampe, please visit aampe.com. If you’re interested in working at Aampe, apply online at Aampe Careers.

About Aampe

Aampe provides infrastructure for agentic AI—autonomous systems that personalize engagement by continuously adapting to user behavior. The platform integrates with marketing and product stacks to deliver experimentation-led, one-to-one user experiences at scale. Aampe supports enterprise clients across North America, Europe, and Asia. For more information, visit aampe.com.

Media Contact

Kara Silverman
kara@variousand.com

Provident Polska S.A., a trusted leader in Poland’s non-banking financial sector and part of the International Personal Finance plc (IPF) Group, proudly announces that it has obtained a full payment institution (KIP) license from the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (Komisja Nadzoru Finansowego).

This milestone marks a transformative moment for Provident Polska, positioning the company for accelerated growth and enhanced service delivery within the Polish financial landscape.

Following a rigorous two-year application process, the approval of the KIP license signifies a monumental achievement, affirming the company’s compliance with stringent operational and regulatory standards. The license enables Provident Polska to offer unrestricted financial services, removing the limitations previously imposed under its small payment institution designation. This newfound flexibility paves the way for the expansion of its credit card offerings and the elevation of customer service to new heights. [1]

Commenting on the achievement, Country Manager Marcin Żuchowski said, “Obtaining the license to provide payment services as a National Payment Institution is, for us, a confirmation of the quality of our products, as well as the transparency and highest standards represented by our company.” [2]

A Turning Point for Provident Polska and Poland’s Non-Banking Sector

This milestone marks the dawn of a new era for Provident Polska, which has served the financial needs of Polish customers for 28 years. By obtaining the full payment institution license, the company can now provide a wider range of services, including issuing credit cards without transaction limits.

This enhanced capability allows for the development of financial products designed to meet the evolving demands of Polish customers, who increasingly seek accessible, flexible, and innovative financial solutions. [3]

Over 200,000 Credit Cards Issued with Growth on the Horizon

By the end of 2024, Provident Polska had already issued more than 200,000 credit cards under its previous small payment institution status.[4] This existing foundation positions the company for rapid expansion in the coming year. The new license removes barriers and unlocks the potential for exponential growth in the Polish market.

The ability to issue credit cards without transaction caps offers enormous benefits to customers. It ensures greater flexibility in managing finances, from everyday expenses to larger, more strategic purchases. This capability aligns with Provident Polska’s commitment to delivering financial products that are both affordable and effective.

Breaking Barriers to Create Opportunities

One of the breakthrough advantages of the KIP license is the ability to conduct financial activities with no pre-set maximum transaction limits. [5] Previously, Provident Polska’s growth was constrained by the regulatory ceilings applied to small payment institutions, requiring careful balancing of customer needs and operational feasibility. [6]

The new designation as a full payment institution eliminates these constraints, empowering Provident Polska to intensify its focus on innovation and service expansion. This achievement reflects more than just compliance with regulatory requirements—it underscores the company’s commitment to trust, vision, and the relentless drive to empower its customers.

The KIP license serves as a testament to Provident Polska’s dedication to helping families and individuals achieve their financial goals in a sustainable and responsible way.

By leveraging this newfound flexibility, Provident Polska is now better positioned to serve a broader customer base while tailoring its products and services to meet evolving financial needs.

Enhancing Operations in Poland

The KIP license not only enables Provident Polska to scale its operations domestically but also allows the company to develop its financial offerings further by leveraging advanced technologies. From innovative digital payment solutions to enhanced mobile application capabilities, Provident Polska is committed to making financial interactions simpler, faster, and more convenient for Polish customers. [7]

The flagship credit card product, introduced under the small payment institution regime, has already proven its utility as a flexible financial tool. The full payment institution license provides a platform for expanding this product line, making it accessible to more customers while introducing additional benefits such as lower fees, added features, and personalized financial solutions. [8]

A Boost to Poland’s Economic Landscape

The importance of this achievement for Poland’s broader financial and economic ecosystem cannot be overstated. Provident Polska’s growth contributes to the country’s job creation, financial inclusion initiatives, and technological advancements in financial services. The receipt of the KIP license not only solidifies the company’s position as one of Poland's leading non-banking financial institutions but also highlights the country’s forward-thinking regulatory framework, which supports innovation while ensuring consumer protection.

This milestone reflects Provident Polska’s capabilities and its commitment to raising standards of service and reliability. It also underscores the company’s role in driving economic development, inspiring others in the market to follow suit. By strengthening its foundation, Provident Polska is poised to create a positive ripple effect across the financial sector, furthering its mission to empower customers and contribute to Poland’s economic progress.

Poland First, But Europe Within Reach

While Provident Polska remains firmly committed to its Polish customer base, the KIP license opens the door to international opportunities. Thanks to the EU passporting procedure, Provident Polska can now offer its services in other European Economic Area (EEA) member countries. [9] This regulatory harmonization ensures that Provident Polska’s expertise and customer-centric approach can be shared beyond Poland’s borders.

A Responsible Approach to Growth

While growth and innovation are central to Provident Polska’s strategy, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to responsible lending and financial inclusion. The KIP license provides an opportunity to not only build scale but also engage in meaningful initiatives that promote financial literacy and help customers make informed financial decisions.

This responsible approach aligns with IPF’s broader mission to be a force for good. [10] It underscores Provident Polska’s dedication to building long-term relationships based on trust, transparency, and value delivery.

Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond

With the receipt of the KIP license, Provident Polska is poised for accelerated growth in 2025. The company aims to expand its service portfolio, grow its customer base, and explore untapped opportunities within the Polish market.

Gerard Ryan, CEO at IPF has stated: “With good growth momentum and a strong balance sheet, we enter 2025 in an excellent position to accelerate both growth and the pace of change across the Group. Building on our track record of success, we will maintain our focus on serving those consumers who need us most and enhancing our customer experience, while pursuing growth opportunities with discipline and a clear focus on sustainable returns.” [11]

Sources

[1] Page 7 of the IPF Report
[2] https://bpcc.org.pl/pl/provident-polska-z-licencja-krajowej-instytucji-platniczej/
[3] Page 7 of the IPF Report
[4] Page 3 of the IPF Report
[5] https://www.dlklegal.com/en/doswiadczenie/kip-license-for-provident-polska/
[6] https://voltlegal.com/small-payment-institution-mip-in-poland-an-ideal-solution-for-fintech-startups/
[7] Page 6 of the IPF Report
[8] Page 13 of the IPF Report
[9] Page 6 of the IPF Report
[10] Page 6 of the IPF Report
[11] Page 4 of the IPF Report

About Provident Polska

Provident Polska S.A., a subsidiary of International Personal Finance plc, is one of the largest non-banking financial institutions in Poland. With 28 years of experience, the company has been a reliable partner for millions of Polish customers, offering innovative and responsible financial products. Provident Polska is committed to delivering exceptional service and empowering customers to make informed financial decisions. For more information, visit www.provident.pl.

Media Contact

Provident Polska Headquarters
karolina.luczak@provident.pl
+48 668 313 014

According to an alert issued today by consumer protection attorneys at Blankingship & Christiano, P.C, Experian Information Solutions, Inc. successfully uses arbitration clauses to prevent consumers from suing the credit agency over inaccurate credit reporting.

The arbitration clauses are not found in contracts directly with Experian, but instead appear in the fine print of sign-up agreements for affiliated services such as CreditWorks, FreeCreditScore.com, CreditReport.com, and others. Consumers typically access these services believing they are receiving a free credit score or monitoring service, often by simply clicking “I agree.”

“Most people think they’re doing something financially healthy by getting a free credit report, but they’re also clicking away their 7th Amendment rights,” said Hugo Blankingship, partner and founder at Blankingship & Christiano, P.C. 

The 7th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to a jury trial in civil cases, allowing individuals to bring disputes before a court of law rather than being forced into private arbitration.

 “It’s not obvious to the average consumer because these arbitration clauses are deeply embedded in fine print and are being used to shield Experian from jury trials,” added Blankingship.

Although Experian is not a named party in these agreements, the credit reporting agency has successfully argued in court that it is an affiliated entity, and therefore entitled to enforce the arbitration provision. As a result, many consumers have been denied access to a courtroom, pre-trial discovery and jury trial. These are critical rights that consumers must preserve.

“We’ve had several clients who were unaware they had signed away their right to sue. This is not a technicality, it's a legal strategy with real consequences for people harmed by credit report inaccuracies,” said Tom Christiano, partner and co-founder of the firm.

Truly free, no-strings-attached credit reports can be accessed at annualcreditreport.com.

How Consumers Can Respond To Preserve Their Jury Rights

Blankingship & Christiano, P.C. recommends that consumers:

• Check their email or account history for sign-ups with CreditWorks, FreeCreditReport.com, or other Experian-affiliated services 
• Call 1-866-617-1894 to cancel all services, including any free plans
• Choose the option for consumers
• You will have to provide your personal information so that they can locate you
• Be firm and tell them that you want to cancel both paid and free memberships
• Request written confirmation of cancellation by email

About Blankingship & Christiano, P.C.

Blankingship & Christiano has more than five decades of combined experience assisting consumers. Our identity theft lawyers represent consumers who have been victimized financially as well as emotionally. We are very particular about the clients/cases we accept, but if you become a client you can rest assured that we will fight for you to the bitter end.

Some of the things that distinguish us from other credit reporting and identity theft law firms include:

• Experience and success in numerous Fair Credit Reporting Act cases
• Extensive knowledge of consumer’s rights in credit-related matters
• Deep understanding of the way credit reporting agencies and furnishers operate
• Knowledge of the immense damage caused by identity theft and false credit reporting
• Multiple awards and nominations, including Virginia and D.C. Super Lawyers

Credit reporting companies and furnishers have an unfair advantage over ordinary consumers, but our opponents know we won’t back down. Our willingness to try cases to the end is what sets us apart from other firms that just want to file multiple cases and settle for nominal amounts.

For more information, visit www.yourfaircreditlawyer.com.

Disclaimer

In some jurisdictions, this press release may be considered attorney advertising. 

Media Contact

Amanda Orr
amanda@orrstrategygroup.com

Tangem, a Swiss crypto hardware wallet manufacturer, announced it has secured its third U.S. patent (No. 12307443) for a blockchain-enabled smart ring, marking the company’s official expansion into the rapidly growing wearable finance sector.

The newly patented ring enables users to store cryptocurrency keys and sign blockchain transactions securely by simply bringing the ring near a smartphone. A secure chip inside the device performs cryptographic signing internally, ensuring that private keys are never exposed—a key security feature validated through the patent process.

The company is also developing contactless crypto payment capabilities directly from the ring, aiming to merge convenience with self-custody in a wearable format.

“This patent confirms the strength of our secure architecture and positions Tangem at the forefront of wearable finance,” said CEO Andrey Kurennykh. “We’re building a platform that makes decentralized finance more accessible without compromising on security or control.”

This marks Tangem’s third U.S. patent in 2025. Earlier patents cover a private key backup system and a crypto payment card integrating secure self-custody with daily transactions.

Tangem’s expansion comes as the global smart ring market continues to grow at a double-digit CAGR, driven by consumer demand for wearable payment and identity solutions. The company sees significant opportunity in licensing, embedded finance partnerships, and direct-to-consumer adoption.

“The Tangem Ring reflects a long-term strategy to combine cryptographic integrity with practical, everyday usability,” Kurennykh added.

About Tangem

Tangem develops self-custodial crypto wallets including the Tangem Wallet Card and the Tangem Ring. Headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, the company serves users in over 220 countries and continues to grow its IP portfolio to support innovation in crypto custody, payments, and digital identity. For more information, visit tangem.com.

Media Contact

Daria Bys
press@tangem.com

Javvy Coffee has recently announced that its protein coffee product line will be coming to Sprouts Farmers Market on May 26, 2025, launching at more than 400 Sprouts locations around the U.S.

The launch coincides with a broader consumer movement toward healthy coffee alternatives, the market for which is expected to grow by nearly 7% annually over the next five years. This includes what many caffeine enthusiasts lovingly call “proffee” (coffee with protein), an increasingly popular health craze that can provide a sugar-free morning energy boost while supporting health initiatives like weight management and muscle growth — a two-in-one energy and recovery solution that packs a punch without sacrificing flavor.

“People want healthy, better-for-you coffee, but not at the expense of convenience or taste,” said Brandon Monaghan, co-founder and chief marketing officer of Javvy. “That’s why Sprouts is such an important milestone for us. It puts our protein coffee in front of health-conscious shoppers already looking for easy, functional swaps, giving them a protein-packed, guilt-free coffee they can actually look forward to.”

Javvy’s goal is straightforward: make healthier, more beneficial coffee that’s more accessible and convenient. That’s why the brand offers products that can easily be integrated into health and fitness routines or the busy mornings of consumers on the go, with its protein blend easily mixing with water or blending into smoothies.

At launch, Sprouts will stock four flavors of Javvy protein coffee: caramel, mocha, French vanilla, and original. Unlike overly sweet protein shakes or calorie-heavy coffeehouse drinks, these options offer a lighter, more functional option — with each serving made from 100% real coffee, 10g of whey protein, 80mg of caffeine, 0g of sugar, and no artificial flavors. This clean-label, functional approach to your morning cup of Joe is the perfect fit for Sprouts Farmers Market, which is known for its wellness-forward and ingredient-conscious products.

The Sprouts rollout marks Javvy’s first presence in brick-and-mortar retail in the company’s five-year history. While the launch will initially focus on the brand’s protein coffee, additional offerings like coffee creamers and concentrates (as well as additional proffee flavors) are available on Javvy’s site — all of which are clean-ingredient formulations that allow consumers to recreate café-style drinks at home.

About Javvy Coffee

Javvy Coffee is on a mission to make your daily brew work harder and taste better. From protein-infused coffee to clean-label concentrates, Javvy delivers bold flavor, real function, and zero fuss. It’s “better-for-you coffee made easy.” Explore the full lineup at javvycoffee.com.

Media Contact

Valerie van der Linden
valerie@javvycoffee.com

Fiction Profits Academy is at the forefront of helping everyday people turn simple story ideas into real-world publishing success. Since its founding in 2015, the Academy has grown into a trusted and comprehensive online resource for thousands of people looking to self-publish fiction on platforms like Amazon—many of whom had no prior writing experience. 

Founded by veteran author and publishing strategist Karla Marie, Fiction Profits Academy offers a structured, visual-first curriculum that caters to both first-time writers and experienced storytellers seeking to sharpen their edge in the competitive world of fiction publishing. With over 15,000 students served and a team of 40 publishing experts, the program provides step-by-step guidance for authors looking to publish genres ranging from romance and sci-fi to fantasy, mystery, and beyond.

At the core of the Academy’s success is a unique blend of community, coaching, and cutting-edge tools. Students benefit from five-day-a-week live group coaching, one-on-one mentorship, and ongoing support delivered by industry professionals who actively publish and sell books themselves. This "walk-the-walk" model stands in stark contrast to many passive online courses and has become a key differentiator for the brand.

“With more people seeking to rediscover their identity post-pandemic, and as traditional career paths continue to evolve, we’ve seen a surge in interest from everyday people who never saw themselves as authors—but now see fiction publishing as a real path to income and impact.” said Karla Marie, founder of Fiction Profits Academy. “Our goal is to make self-publishing feel achievable, rewarding, and empowering.”

Fiction Profits Academy not only offers expert-led education but also provides powerful digital publishing software to streamline the process from idea to publication. This includes tools for market research, outlining, formatting, and even leveraging AI responsibly as a writing assistant. Students learn how to identify profitable fiction niches, design compelling book covers, and navigate the nuances of Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) platform.

As AI writing assistants, e-readers, and content consumption trends continue to evolve, the Academy stays ahead of the curve. Its approach doesn’t promise overnight riches—it promises a replicable system, professional support, and the mindset needed to build a sustainable writing career in today’s creator economy.

Beyond its program, Fiction Profits Academy is also working to proactively protect its reputation as the brand expands. With increasing visibility and influence, the company faces ongoing attempts by affiliate marketers to exploit its name in search results—prompting leadership to invest in increased brand awareness and quality media representation.

Whether someone wants to turn a fun idea into a sci-fi saga or launch a romance series that generates real income, Fiction Profits Academy offers a space where passion and publishing potential meet. As the self-publishing revolution accelerates, the Academy is poised to remain a leader in the space—helping the next generation of storytellers thrive.

To learn more about Fiction Profits Academy, visit: www.fictionprofitsacademy.com

About Fiction Profits Academy

Founded in 2015, Fiction Profits Academy is an industry-leading online program designed to help everyday people publish and scale successful fiction brands—regardless of prior writing experience. The Academy offers an all-in-one platform that includes expert coaching, proprietary publishing tools, and a results-driven curriculum. Serving over 15,000 students globally, Fiction Profits Academy is helping redefine what’s possible for writers in the digital age. For more information, visit www.fictionprofitsacademy.com.

Media Contact

Karla Marie
support@fictionprofitsacademy.com

As functional mushrooms, such as lion’s mane, reishi, chaga, and cordyceps, continue to gain popularity, the Scientific Association of Botanical Education and Research (SABER) is inviting the public, researchers, and policymakers to engage in thoughtful, evidence-based conversations about their potential benefits and safe use.

Functional mushrooms are becoming a familiar part of wellness routines, including daily supplements and mushroom coffees, as well as skincare and functional foods. As the market rapidly expands, SABER recognizes a unique opportunity to bridge tradition and innovation with sound science and responsible practices.

“At SABER, we believe that natural products like functional mushrooms deserve a central place in modern health discussions,” said Dr. Thomas Brendler, renowned plant scientist and member of SABER’s Steering Committee. “These organisms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and modern research is beginning to uncover the mechanisms behind their effects. But there's still so much we don’t know, and we’re excited to help fill those gaps through collaboration and scientific inquiry.”

SABER supports the continued exploration of functional mushrooms within a framework that prioritizes education, safety, and scientific rigor. The organization is committed to:

• Promoting high-quality research on the effects, dosing, and safety of mushroom-based supplements
• Fostering collaboration between scientists, educators, traditional healers, and industry stakeholders
• Supporting standards for labeling, testing, and transparency across the botanical industry
• Empowering consumers with clear, accessible information rooted in evidence

By encouraging interdisciplinary dialogue and centering community-informed science, SABER hopes to create a future where functional mushrooms can be responsibly integrated into wellness and medicine in a way that is equitable, sustainable, and informed.

“Functional mushrooms are a fascinating and promising area of science,” said Dr. Brendler. “This is the perfect moment to ask good questions, invest in research, and build systems that support innovation while protecting public health.”

About Scientific Association for Botanical Education and Research (SABER)

The Scientific Association for Botanical Education and Research (SABER) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing scientific understanding, regulation, and safe access to botanicals. Through research partnerships, policy advocacy, and public education, SABER works to ensure that natural products are studied responsibly, used safely, and regulated appropriately.​ To learn more, visit www.saberscience.org.

Media Contact

Paloma Lehfeldt
info@saberscience.org

Flowable, a global provider of workflow and case management software, has been included among notable vendors in Forrester’s "The Digital Process Automation Landscape, Q2 2025" report, which provides an overview of the current trends and solutions in enterprise automation. The company’s platform excels at helping organizations streamline operations, improve compliance, and accelerate transformation across highly regulated sectors.

As businesses look to do more with fewer resources, many are turning to automation to reduce delays, cut costs, and simplify operations. Forrester’s recent report reflects these priorities and points to the growing need for tools that can manage everyday tasks and more complex, unpredictable work. Flowable’s platform helps meet this need by combining process design, case handling, and automation in one place.

Flowable makes it easier for companies to organize their work, whether that involves employees, software, or customer services. It’s used to improve processes like loan approvals, insurance claims, service requests, and internal workflows — especially in highly compliant industries including banking, healthcare, insurance, and government.

“We’re proud to be recognized in this Forrester report,” said Tijs Rademakers, vice president of engineering at Flowable. “Our platform continues to evolve to help companies run smoother operations and solve problems faster, while staying in control of their processes.”

Helping Businesses Stay Organized and Flexible 

The Forrester report highlights how the market is shifting from basic task automation to smarter, more connected systems. Today’s businesses need tools that not only automate work but also allow teams to respond when things don’t go as planned. Flowable supports this shift with features that help track progress, manage exceptions and keep teams aligned.

Flowable stands out for its ability to bring people, software and digital tools together in a single system. Teams can create custom workflows, decide when certain actions should happen using automation and adjust processes as needed.

It also provides tools to keep track of what decisions were made, when they were made and who made them which is important for teams that need to follow strict rules or reporting standards, or are pursuing optimization.

The platform is based on open industry standards, which makes it easier to connect with other systems that a company already uses. This helps businesses avoid building from scratch or relying on multiple tools that don’t work well together.

Forrester’s digital process automation landscape report offers a clear view of enterprise automation options out there today. And insights into the key business value that automation leaders are achieving with digital process automation right now.

Flowable’s strengths helping automation leaders today include:

• Coordinating tasks across teams, software, and digital systems
• Supporting both structured routines and flexible work processes
• Providing tools to log decisions and track changes
• Connecting smoothly with existing technology using open standards

Supporting a Wide Range of Teams

Flowable is used by different teams across an organization, each with their own goals:

• Operations teams use it to reduce delays and eliminate repetitive tasks
• Compliance and audit teams rely on it to keep records and follow policies
• IT and digital teams use it to automate processes and launch new tools faster, and keep systems connected
• Customer support and finance teams improve service by speeding up common processes like account setup, claims, and approvals

Because Flowable lets both technical and non-technical users build and update workflows, it’s a useful tool for businesses that want to move quickly without depending only on developers.

Flowable also helps companies stay flexible. As rules, markets or technologies change, teams can adjust how their processes work without needing to rebuild everything from the ground up.

A Strong Option for Long-Term Automation Goals 

Forrester’s recently published digital process automation landscape report is a solid resource for companies that are choosing tools to support their growth and digital strategy. The 2025 report outlines how platforms like Flowable are helping businesses stay on track by making their operations faster, clearer, and more consistent. The report arrives at a transformational moment when organizations increase focus on AI agent innovation and the eventuating possibilities within end-to-end business automation.

Flowable believes its recognition in Forrester’s 2025 report shows its commitment to supporting the evolving needs and expectations of today's enterprises. Organizations interested in learning more about how Flowable supports business automation, case management, and digital operations can access the full report reprint and product information here. 

Forrester does not endorse any company, product, brand, or service included in its research publications and does not advise any person to select the products or services of any company or brand based on the ratings included in such publications. Information is based on the best available resources. Opinions reflect judgment at the time and are subject to change. For more information, read about Forrester’s objectivity here.

About Flowable

Flowable is a leading provider of business process automation and case management software. Its flexible, low-code platform enables organizations to design, manage, and optimize workflows that connect teams, systems, and data. Flowable serves enterprises across industries such as finance, healthcare, insurance, and the public sector. For more information, visit flowable.com.

Media Contact

Violet Diamanti-Race 
violet.diamanti@flowable.com
+41 31 329 09 00

Community Association Management Services (CAMS), a leading provider of community management throughout the Carolinas, is pleased to announce the promotion of Jason Dail to Regional Director.

Dail’s industry experience includes starting his own community management company, JTL Group, LLC. As his company continued to grow, he knew he needed a partner like CAMS to continue to grow his career. JTL Group merged with CAMS in January 2024, and Dail has been working as a community manager in the Raleigh region.

In addition to community management industry experience, Dail has worked in bookkeeping, business development, and general contracting.

Dail is excited to take on his new role.

“Being with CAMS has been a great experience since day one,” said Dail. “The CAMS team has supported my growth from the beginning, and I look forward to working with our Myrtle Beach team and clients.”

Senior Vice President of Community Management, Ronda Bossert, CMCA, AMS, is happy to have Dail leading the Myrtle Beach region.

“We are thrilled to announce Jason’s move from our Raleigh region to Myrtle Beach,” said Bossert. “He brings a wealth of industry experience that will be a valuable asset to our team. His experience, combined with his positive attitude, will make a significant impact as he takes on this new role. We’re excited to have him join the Myrtle Beach team and look forward to the great things we’ll achieve together.”

About CAMS (Community Association Management Services)

In business since 1991, CAMS has grown to become North and South Carolina’s premier community management company. With experienced local managers in each of its nine regions, CAMS provides innovative solutions to the community associations it serves. To learn more, visit www.camsmgt.com/choose-cams.

Media Contact

Rudi Shelor
rshelor@camsmgt.com