A podcast for people who use English as a Second or Foreign Language (ESL/EFL) in their work environment and want to improve their overall language skills. In each episode, hosts Skip Montreux, Dez Morgan, and Samantha Vega discuss Business news making headlines around the world. Through their discussions, Skip, Dez and Samantha introduce English vocabulary & phrases related to business, review grammar, and identify cultural differences found in International business situations. An excellen ...
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Welcome to the Best of the Best in Franchising Podcast where in each episode, we talk with a specific leader in franchising who has accomplished remarkable feats and led the way in their franchise brand. We'll discuss how they got started in franchising, a little bit about their chosen franchise brand, what they love most about franchising, and more about what has helped them to be one of the best of the best in the franchise industry.
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1
OPEC Explained: Part 1 - Origins and Strategic Purpose
22:28
22:28
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22:28
The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) was established in 1960 to give oil-producing nations more control over their resources and influence global oil prices. Initially formed by five countries—Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela — OPEC has grown to include 12 member countries, with 10 additional nations cooperating u…
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The CrowdStrike Incident: the largest global IT outage in history
9:03
9:03
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9:03
In July, a global IT outage, known as the CrowdStrike Incident, disrupted businesses worldwide. A faulty software update from cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike affected millions of devices, leading to significant financial losses across various sectors. Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega discuss the largest global IT outage in history, triggered by a fau…
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Over tourism is becoming a significant issue in popular destinations worldwide, with cities like Barcelona and countries like Japan struggling to balance economic benefits with the challenges of an increasing number of visitors. Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega explore the impact of over tourism in Spain and Japan. They discuss how the surge in tour…
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Interview with Barbara Reguero of Maid Right with Premium Service Brands in New Rochelle, New York
40:37
40:37
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40:37
In this episode, I talk with Barbara Reguero about her transition from working on Wall Street for 23 years to owning a Maid Right franchise with Premium Service Brands. Barbara shares her story about how she has grown her business since she started it in February of 2015, her thoughts on being awarded the Franchisee of the Year in 2020 during a cha…
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Interview with Edwin Greer, Multi-Unit Franchise Owner on Lessons on Scaling A Franchise to the Next Level
28:53
28:53
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28:53
In this episode, I talk with Edwin Greer about his start in franchising after a career in the military and how he has grown his franchise portfolio with two brands to a total of 53 locations with his business partner. He shares lessons he has learned along the way, how he improved his leadership skills to have better employee retention, how he has …
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The Dow Jones Industrial Average & Dow Theory
24:27
24:27
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24:27
The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) remains a vital benchmark for U.S. economic performance, despite being established in 1896. Today, the DJIA and Dow Theory continue to provide investors with valuable insights into market trends. Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan explore the history and significance of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, often refer…
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Interview with Dez Herrera of 360 Painting and House Doctors with Premium Service Brands in Raleigh, North Carolina
49:49
49:49
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49:49
In this episode, I talk with Dez and Jesse Herrera of 360 Painting and House Doctors with Premium Service Brands in Raleigh, North Carolina. They purchased an existing 360 Painting franchise and added on a House Doctors franchise. They share their story, how they got started, lessons they've learned since joining the franchise, and what they like m…
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Elon Musk vs. The Brazilian Supreme Court
16:11
16:11
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16:11
Elon Musk’s social media platform X faces legal challenges in Brazil over content moderation, highlighting the difficulties global companies encounter with varying legal and cultural standards. Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega discuss the recent legal battle between Elon Musk's X (formerly Twitter) and the Brazilian Supreme Court. They discuss the c…
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Interview with Arica and Rodney Clay of Cheeky Monkeys in Highland Village, Texas
35:26
35:26
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35:26
In this episode, I talk with Arica and Rodney Clay who started a Cheeky Monkeys franchise in Highland Village, Texas. They share their story about how they got started, why they chose Cheeky Monkeys, and the benefits they've found from being one of the first franchisees in the United States with the Cheeky Monkeys brand which was originally started…
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Dr. Copper: How Copper Prices Reflect Global Economic Health
8:21
8:21
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8:21
Copper — a critical industrial metal — holds the intriguing title of "Dr. Copper" for its ability to diagnose the health of the global economy. In this episode, we delve into how copper prices act as an economic barometer and explore the factors influencing its market trends. Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan discuss the concept of "Dr. Copper," examini…
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Interview with Bruce Morgan, Franchise Business Coach and Franchisee with Kitchen Tune-Up
39:56
39:56
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39:56
In this episode, I talk with Bruce Morgan, who started a Kitchen Tune-Up franchise with his wife in Colorado Springs, Colorado nearly 30 years ago and today is the franchise business coach for new franchisees in the Kitchen Tune-Up franchise system with Home Franchise Concepts. Bruce shares his story about how he got into franchising, lessons he ha…
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Interview with Jesus Barrios with The Grout Medic, Kitchen Wise / Closet Wise, Window Gang and 360° Painting Franchises with Premium Service Brands in Denver, Colorado
38:39
38:39
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38:39
In this episode, I talk with Jesus Barrios about The Grout Medic franchise which he and his father Harold started in November of 2006 (which was acquired by Premium Service Brands in 2021). Since then, they have added a Kitchen Wise / Closet Wise franchise in May of 2024 and are opening a 360° Painting franchise in June of 2024. Jesus shares his fa…
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Roots of Success: Turkey's Hair Transplant Boom
21:29
21:29
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21:29
Turkey's hair transplant industry is booming, attracting international clients and reshaping the medical tourism landscape. This episode explores the factors driving this growth, including advancements in technology, social acceptance, and economic factors. Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega dive into the rapidly growing hair transplant industry in Tu…
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Interview with Frank Fiume, Founder of i9 Sports and Host of the Emerging Brands Podcast
32:26
32:26
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32:26
In this episode, I talk with Frank Fiume, founder of i9 Sports about the start of his franchise, how he grew his business, lessons he learned from challenging times in the business, and key lessons that he shares in his excellent book Running with My Head Down. This is a fascinating discussion about what it takes to be successful in franchising and…
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Interview with Dr. John Hayes, Titus Chair for Franchise Leadership at Palm Beach Atlantic University
41:24
41:24
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41:24
In this episode, I talk with Dr. John Hayes, Titus Chair for Franchise Leadership at Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, Florida. Dr. Hayes talks about his background in journalism and how he got involved with franchising. Dr. Hayes was introduced to the franchise community in 1979 while an assistant professor at Temple University in…
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South Korean Chaebols & The Korea Discount
25:54
25:54
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25:54
South Korea's economic landscape has been significantly shaped by its large family-owned conglomerates, known as chaebols. These entities have driven the nation's rapid development, but also face criticism for their dominant market position and governance issues. Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan examine the world of South Korean chaebols and the phenom…
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Interview with Larry and Svetlana Fussell of Gotcha Covered in Winter Garden, Florida
36:40
36:40
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36:40
In this episode, I talk with Larry and Svetlana Fussell of the Gotcha Covered franchise, which they started in Winter Garden, Florida. They talk about their experiences of getting into franchising (which Svetlana did first with a tutoring franchise which she later sold) once Larry's Gotcha Covered franchise got started. They share lessons they've l…
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The United States government has taken unprecedented steps to ban the popular social media platform TikTok due to concerns over data security and potential influence from the Chinese government. Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega discuss the recent developments surrounding the US government's decision to ban TikTok unless its Chinese parent company, B…
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Interview with Mark Boyd Who Operates 6 Brands with Premium Service Brands (House Doctors, 360° Painting, Kitchen Wise / Closet Wise, Window Gang, ProLift Doors, and Grout Medic) in Augusta, Georgia
40:45
40:45
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40:45
In this episode, I interview Mark Boyd who owns a House Doctors and 360° Painting franchise in Evans, Georgia (just outside of Augusta, Georgia). Additionally, he has just added four new brands with Premium Service Brands (Kitchen Wise / Closet Wise, Window Gang, ProLift Doors, and Grout Medic). Mark shares his story about how he got started with H…
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Egypt's economy is facing significant challenges, with key sectors like the Suez Canal and natural gas industry experiencing sharp declines in revenue. These difficulties are exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and internal economic issues, creating a complex landscape for the country's financial future. Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan report on the …
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Interview with Terri Reiff of Stretch Zone
36:45
36:45
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36:45
In this episode, I talk with Terri Reiff, who started her first Stretch Zone franchise in 2017. She has owned as many as 11 franchise locations and recently has sold several locations so that she can focus on her granddaughter. Terri's story is an inspiring example of the power of franchising and growing a successful operation across multiple locat…
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The global chocolate industry is grappling with a steep rise in cocoa prices, leading to significant changes for producers and consumers alike. This unprecedented surge, driven by unusual weather patterns and long-standing structural challenges, has sent shockwaves through the market, forcing chocolate manufacturers to rethink recipes, pricing, and…
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Interview with Matt Skellan of Kitchen Tune Up and Bath Tune Up in Columbus, Ohio
39:31
39:31
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39:31
In this episode, I talk with Matt Skellan of Kitchen Tune Up and Bath Tune Up in Columbus, Ohio. He acquired an existing Kitchen Tune Up franchise in June of 2022, added a Bath Tune Up franchise and has grown the business significantly from then until now. Matt shares his story about how he decided to get into franchising and why he chose to join K…
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Interview with Ryan Laird of PMI Denver Metro in Denver, Colorado (Association Pillar with Property Management Inc.)
30:24
30:24
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30:24
In this episode, I talk with Ryan Laird, who started the association pillar with Property Management Inc. (PMI) with his father Paul Laird in early 2020. Ryan shares their story about how they got started, what they've like most about working with PMI as they've grown, lessons they've learned, and the advantages to starting a business with a franch…
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Beauty in Distress: What went wrong at The Body Shop?
23:29
23:29
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23:29
The Body Shop, once a leader in ethical consumerism and a pioneer in brand activism within the cosmetics industry, has faced a dramatic downturn. This episode of Down to Business English examines the rise and fall of a company that set the standard for corporate responsibility but has recently struggled with bankruptcy and ownership changes. Skip M…
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Interview with Mike Nonelle with Fibrenew in Hollywood, Florida
41:19
41:19
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41:19
In this episode, I talk with Mike Nonelle with the Fibrenew franchise in Hollywood, Florida. Mike shares his story about his background in the film and TV industry and why he chose to join Fibrenew of the different business concepts that he considered. He discusses how he got started in March of 2020, what he loves most about the franchise, how the…
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Interview with Eduardo Esquivel and Gabriela Cerrillo of 360° Painting in Cincinnati, Ohio (Premium Service Brands)
36:40
36:40
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36:40
In this episode, we talk with with Eduardo Esquivel and Gabriela Cerrillo in Cincinnati, Ohio and the northern Kentucky area who joined the 360° Painting franchise with Premium Service Brands in July of 2020. They talk about how they discovered 360° Painting and why they chose to join them and Premium Service Brands, how their business has grown si…
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Interview with Bart Williams of House Doctors and Window Gang in Somerset, Kentucky (Premium Service Brands)
51:45
51:45
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51:45
In this episode, I talk with Bart Williams, who has been a House Doctors franchisee for 18 years. Bart talks about his decision to get into franchising with House Doctors and what he has loved most since Premium Service Brands purchased House Doctors. He also shares lessons that he has learned in leadership and retention and how he was able to incr…
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The Wide World of Sports Betting in the USA
20:49
20:49
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20:49
Learn how sports betting went from being a national concern to a booming industry in the USA, all while picking up sports-related idioms and expressions that cross over into business English. Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega look at the world of sports betting in the USA. From the 1919 World Series scandal to the monumental shift in 2018 when sports…
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Interview with Scott Tobin, Multi-Unit Franchise Owner of Burn Boot Camp in North Carolina and Virginia
41:30
41:30
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41:30
In this episode, I talk with Scott Tobin of Burn Boot Camp, who has built twelve locations (and getting ready to open his thirteenth this year), after being Burn Boot Camp's head trainer. He has seen the growth of Burn Brands since a few franchise locations to 400+ locations now across the country. Scott shares lessons he has learned in leadership,…
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Discover the latest economic developments in Japan, focusing on the Nikkei 225 index reaching a new high and the opening of a TSMC semiconductor plant in Kumamoto. This episode is a great chance to learn business English vocabulary related to important economic changes. Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega examine recent economic milestones in Japan, in…
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Interview with Jessica Cartwright, Owner of Royal Restrooms Mountain West in Salt Lake City, Utah, Denver, Colorado, and Albuquerque, New Mexico
46:53
46:53
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46:53
In this episode, I talk with Jessica Cartwright about how she decided to join the Royal Restrooms franchise and acquire an existing business that was operating in Salt Lake City, Utah and Denver, Colorado. She has since expanded operations in both markets and is in the process of opening a third market in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Jessica shares val…
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Interview with Scott Goodger of KitchenWise / ClosetWise (Premium Service Brands) in The Villages, Florida
44:36
44:36
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44:36
In this episode, we talk with Scott Goodger, who started his KitchenWise / ClosetWise franchise in The Villages, Florida in early 2021 and shares his experiences with starting the brand, his growth, and his perspective on the benefits that he has found in joining a franchise with Premium Service Brands.…
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Interview with Kenneth Colson of Property Management Inc. (PMI) in Greensboro, Georgia and Wilmington, North Carolina
38:20
38:20
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38:20
In this episode, we talk with Kenneth Colson, who made the transition out of his full-time job into starting a Property Management Inc. (PMI) franchise in Greensboro, Georgia with a second location in Wilmington, North Carolina. Kenneth works in the short-term property management pillar with PMI and shares why he chose PMI, the benefits he has foun…
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Interview with Mike Parrott of 360° Painting and House Doctors (Premium Service Brands) in St. Joseph, Missouri
36:30
36:30
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36:30
In this episode, we talk with Mike Parrott of 360° Painting and House Doctors in St. Joseph, Missouri about how he joined the Premium Service Brand (PSB) family. He shares his diverse background and why he ultimately chose to start a 360° Painting and House Doctors franchise.By James Butler
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Interview with Tom Dickerson of Property Management Inc. (PMI) in Albuquerque, New Mexico
55:31
55:31
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55:31
In this episode, I talk with Tom Dickerson of PMI4U in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Tom is in the residential pillar of the Property Management Inc. (PMI) franchise. Tom shares his story about how he got started and why he chose to join the PMI franchise as well as his successes that he has had in building his own property management business.…
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Turbulent Skies: The Shifting Winds of Air Freight and Cargo
20:35
20:35
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20:35
The Air Cargo and Freight industry has faced many challenges over the past few years. The COVID-19 pandemic, increasing operational costs, and fluctuating customer demand have all been issues the industry has had to deal with. In this episode of Down to Business English we look at all of these factors. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to …
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Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega explore the world of digital nomads in this enlightening episode of Down to Business English. As the concept of digital nomadism gains traction worldwide, this is a timely and relevant conversation. Listeners will gain valuable insights into this lifestyle choice while improving their business English vocabulary and …
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In a time when geopolitical tensions play a crucial role in shaping global economics, this episode of Down to Business English is very pertinent. Join co-hosts Dez Morgan and Skip Montreux as they explore the intricate dynamics of Russian gas exports to Europe. This discussion offers insights into current events while providing an opportunity to en…
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Carbon Capture: climate saving technology or fossil fuel enabler?
20:22
20:22
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20:22
In today's world, where all of us are trying to be more environmentally responsible, this episode of Down to Business English is very timely. Co-hosts Samantha Vega and Skip Montreux not only talk about the important topic of carbon capture technology but also help you to improve your business English vocabulary and listening comprehension skills. …
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The start of 2024 brings with it not only new resolutions but also new insights into one of the most dynamic sectors of global tourism - the cruise line industry. After weathering the storms of the pandemic, this industry has emerged not just afloat but thriving. The Cruise Line Industry industry has a history of making waves — from its transformat…
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The Eurozone presents a variety of contrasting economic stories. Germany and France, the bloc's largest economies, are navigating through a period of uncertainty that reflects broader trends impacting the region. Meanwhile, smaller economies like Ireland and Belgium are experiencing growth, highlighting the diverse economic conditions within the Eu…
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In a week marked by unexpected turns and twists, OpenAI, the leader in AI development, witnessed a whirlwind of leadership changes that captured the attention of the business and tech world. In this episode of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega take listeners through the riveting series of events at OpenAI, beginning with a s…
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Rupert Murdoch: a retrospective of a media mogul
24:37
24:37
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24:37
Rupert Murdoch, the titan behind global media empire News Corp and Fox Broadcasting, has announced he is stepping down. This marks the end of a staggering 70-year career that has had far-reaching influences in business, entertainment, and politics. Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan take you on a comprehensive retrospective of Murdoch's illustrious and o…
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Become a D2B Member Today and get a 25% discount on an annual membership plan. Visit the Down to Business English website and use the discount code: D2B252023 at checkout Kit Kat, a chocolate bar that has transcended borders and cultures, offers an intriguing lesson in business English. From its humble beginnings in a 17th-century pie shop to its c…
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Nvidia - The Journey from Video Games to AI Dominance
28:08
28:08
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28:08
Nvidia, a name synonymous with cutting-edge technology, has a compelling story that spans from its early focus on gaming graphics to its current role as a leader in artificial intelligence. In this episode of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega take you through the company's fascinating history, groundbreaking technologies, an…
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Congestion Charges - Bonus Vocabulary (Trial)
15:49
15:49
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15:49
This is a sample of a D2B Member’s only podcast. To get a FREE audio script for this episode, visit https://downtobusinessenglish.com/274-sample/ To become a D2B Member, visit the D2B Membership Page. Choose the D2B Executive Plan (recurring or 1 year only plan) and use this discount code at checkout D2B252023 In this Members-only Bonus Vocabulary …
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Congestion Charges - a deep dive into urban traffic solutions
26:18
26:18
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26:18
In an era where urban landscapes are plagued with traffic snarls, excessive vehicle emissions, and deteriorating air quality, cities worldwide are exploring innovative measures to alleviate or ease these challenges. One such solution, which has become more popular in recent years, is the concept of 'congestion charges.' In this episode of Down to B…
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Neo & Challenger Banks: Understanding the Fintech Landscape
9:17
9:17
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9:17
In today's rapidly evolving financial landscape, traditional banking institutions are no longer the sole players. Enter Neobanks and Challenger Banks, two terms that have been making waves in the fintech industry. But what exactly are they, and how do they differ from each other? In this episode of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Dez Mo…
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The Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada is renowned for its stunning landscapes and abundant orchards. But the valley also boasts one of Canada’s best kept secrets—a thriving wine industry. In this episodes of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega explore the rich history of grape cultivation in the region, the transform…
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