Best Samantha Vega | Business English Instructors Podcasts (2024)

1
Big Tech goes Nuclear 22:24

2d ago22:24

22:24

Big Tech is turning to an unexpected solution to meet the soaring power demands of artificial intelligence — nuclear energy. With Microsoft, Amazon, and Google investing heavily in nuclear technology, this move could reshape energy use in the tech industry. Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega explore the surprising steps that Big Tech is taking to secu…

1
Charles Ponzi - the father of Ponzi schemes - redux 29:49

7d ago29:49

29:49

Ponzi schemes are one of the most famous types of financial fraud, promising big returns but often leaving investors with huge losses. But where did the term "Ponzi scheme" come from, and how do these scams work? In this episode of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega discuss the history of the Ponzi scheme and its infamous fou…

1
Savory Snacks: Mars Inc.'s acquisition of Kellanova 18:57

22d ago18:57

18:57

Mars Inc., known for its chocolate products like Mars bars and M&Ms, is making a major move into the savory snack market. With a $35.9 billion deal to acquire Kellanova, Mars is positioning itself to compete with industry giants like PepsiCo. This acquisition could reshape the savory snack landscape and help Mars diversify beyond its traditional ch…

1
Google’s Antitrust Battles 18:19

1M ago18:19

18:19

Google’s dominance in internet search and advertising is under intense legal scrutiny. With two major antitrust lawsuits in the United States, these cases could reshape how we navigate the web and interact with digital ads. The results of these legal battles could have wide-reaching consequences, not just for Google but for the entire tech industry…

1
Panda Diplomacy 22:24

1M ago22:24

22:24

Giant pandas are more than just cute animals—they're key players in China's global diplomacy. Known as "Panda Diplomacy," China has used its iconic bears to strengthen international relationships and influence global politics for centuries. Learn how these animals serve as soft power tools in China’s foreign policy, fostering diplomatic goodwill an…

1
OPEC Explained: Part 2 - History and Present Day Status 8:46

2M ago8:46

8:46

OPEC, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, has played a central role in the global oil market for over six decades. From the 1973 Oil Embargo to the rise of U.S. shale production, OPEC’s influence has evolved as the energy landscape has changed. Despite challenges, the organization continues to be a key player in determining global oi…

1
OPEC Explained: Part 1 - Origins and Strategic Purpose 22:28

2M ago22:28

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…

1
The CrowdStrike Incident: the largest global IT outage in history 9:03

2M ago9:03

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…

1
Over Tourism Issues in Spain and Japan 18:30

3M ago18:30

18:30

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…

1
The Dow Jones Industrial Average & Dow Theory 24:27

3M ago24:27

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…

1
Elon Musk vs. The Brazilian Supreme Court 16:11

4M ago16:11

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…

1
Dr. Copper: How Copper Prices Reflect Global Economic Health 8:21

4M ago8:21

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…

1
Roots of Success: Turkey's Hair Transplant Boom 21:29

4M ago21:29

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…

1
South Korean Chaebols & The Korea Discount 25:54

5M ago25:54

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…

1
The US TikTok Ban: what you need to know 21:59

5M ago21:59

21:59

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…

1
Egypt's Economic Headwinds 7:46

5M ago7:46

7:46

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 …

1
The Cocoa Crisis 22:27

6M ago22:27

22:27

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…

1
Beauty in Distress: What went wrong at The Body Shop? 23:29

6M ago23:29

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…

1
The Wide World of Sports Betting in the USA 20:49

7M ago20:49

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…

1
Soaring Stocks and Semiconductor Success 19:57

7M ago19:57

19:57

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…

1
Turbulent Skies: The Shifting Winds of Air Freight and Cargo 20:35

8M ago20:35

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 …

1
The Digital Nomad Lifestyle 17:13

8M ago17:13

17:13

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 …

1
Russian Gas Exports to Europe 21:53

9M ago21:53

21:53

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…

1
Carbon Capture: climate saving technology or fossil fuel enabler? 20:22

9M ago20:22

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. …

1
The Cruise Line Industry 21:59

10M ago21:59

21:59

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…

1
Economies across the Eurozone 18:46

10M ago18:46

18:46

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…

1
The exit and reinstatement of Sam Altman 19:36

11M ago19:36

19:36

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…

1
Rupert Murdoch: a retrospective of a media mogul 24:37

1y ago24:37

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…

1
Unwrapping Kit Kat 25:23

1y ago25:23

25:23

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…

1
Nvidia - The Journey from Video Games to AI Dominance 28:08

1y ago28:08

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…

1
Congestion Charges - Bonus Vocabulary (Trial) 15:49

1y ago15:49

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 …

1
Congestion Charges - a deep dive into urban traffic solutions 26:18

1y ago26:18

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…

1
Neo & Challenger Banks: Understanding the Fintech Landscape 9:17

1y ago9:17

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…

1
The Okanagan Wine Industry 26:37

1y ago26:37

26:37

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…

1
Understanding India's Economic Growth: Demographics, Markets, and Foreign Investment 23:27

1+ y ago23:27

23:27

India's economy, now the fifth largest globally, is in a state of rapid expansion and transition. This growth is not only reshaping the Indian economy but also redefining its role on the global stage. In this episode of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan take a dive deep into India's demographics, the overall health of its econo…

1
Understanding the US Debt Ceiling 7:34

1+ y ago7:34

7:34

Dez Morgan and Skip Montreux take a deep dive into the concept of a debt ceiling, a term often thrown around in financial news but rarely fully understood. They start by defining what a debt ceiling is, then explore how some countries have set hard limits on their borrowing, while others base their debt ceilings on their GDP. Dez and Skip also disc…

1
No Pay? No Pens! The Writers Guild of America Strike 21:50

1+ y ago21:50

21:50

The ongoing Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. The WGA, a labor union representing over 11,500 writers in the US, is locked in a dispute with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), a trade association of more than 350 US television and film production companies. Th…

1
Alibaba’s Big Break up and the Return of Jack Ma 20:21

1+ y ago20:21

20:21

Jack Ma, the founder of Alibaba and one of China's most prominent businessmen, has recently returned to China after spending two years maintaining a low profile abroad. This event has not only reignited interest in Ma's activities but also coincides with a series of important changes within the Alibaba Group. Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan discuss Ja…

1
The Beef with Brazilian Beef 7:30

1+ y ago7:30

7:30

While the beef industry’s impact on climate change is a global phenomenon, Brazil's industry is unique and has specific environmental concerns. Samantha Vega and Skip Montreux discuss the Brazilian beef industry and its impact on the environment. They start by highlighting the size and importance of the industry in Brazil, and also discuss the majo…

1
The Silicon Valley Bank Collapse 25:09

1+ y ago25:09

25:09

Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan delve into the history and sudden collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB). Although not a household name, SVB was well-known among venture capitalists and tech start-ups for their specialized banking services. Why did Silicon Valley Bank bank fail? How did high interest rates and social media play a role? And what other b…

1
Air India’s Shopping Spree 23:46

1+ y ago23:46

23:46

Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan report on Air India’s record breaking purchase of aircraft from AirBus and Boeing. How many aircraft did Air India purchase? How does this sale compare to previous orders in the aviation industry? Why is Air India upgrading their fleet of airplanes? Listen in to learn the answers to these questions and more. Visit Apple…

1
The Strong US Dollar 8:43

1+ y ago8:43

8:43

Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan report on the US dollar and discuss why it is such a strong currency. They also take a close look at the impact a strong dollar has on economies around the world. Why is the US dollar so strong at the moment? How does a strong US dollar affect global trade? What impact does a strong US dollar have on developing and emer…

1
Forever Chemicals 23:31

1+ y ago23:31

23:31

Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega report on the European Union’s proposed ban of Forever chemicals What are Forever chemicals? Why is the EU considering banning them? What will the ramifications of a ban be for manufacturers who use Forever chemicals in their products? Listen in to learn the answers to these questions and more. Visit Apple Podcasts t…

1
OpenAI & ChatGPT 25:58

2y ago25:58

25:58

Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega talk about OpenAI and their disruptive AI powered chat box—ChatGPT. What is OpenAI and ChatGPT? What is ChatGPT capable of? Could this new AI technology be a game changer across a wide range of industries? Listen in to learn the answers to these questions and more. Visit Apple Podcasts to subscribe to Down to Busines…

1
The Business behind lotteries 7:12

2y ago7:12

7:12

Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan report on the economics of lotteries. How important is lottery revenue for governments? Why was the recent Powerball lottery in the US historic? Who gets the most benefit from lotteries? Listen in to learn the answers to these questions and more. Visit Apple Podcasts to subscribe to Down to Business English, rate the sh…

1
The Canva Story - Part 1 20:12

2y ago20:12

20:12

In part 1 of this 2 part episode, Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega talk about the online graphic design company - Canva. What gave Melanie Perkins the idea to establish Canva? How did they raise capital to start the company? Is Canva a challenge to graphic design giants like Adobe? Listen in to learn the answers to these questions and more. Visit Ap…

1
The 3 Core Elements of an Effective Sales Plan (Part 1) 28:16

2y ago28:16

28:16

This episode is part one of a four-part interview with Gregory Kostiuk, the President and Founder of StratEx Sales. Greg speaks with Skip about why it is important for every business to have and effective sales plan and gives 7 tips on how to create one. What are the 3 elements of an effective sales plan? What is an Ideal Customer Profile (ICP)? Ho…

1
The Firm: How the British Royals make their money 5:56

2y ago5:56

5:56

Dez Morgan explains to Skip Montreux how the British Royal family make their money. Why is the British Royal Family called ’The Firm’? How much is the Royal Family’s brand worth? Why didn’t King Charles have to pay inheritance tax? Listen in to learn the answers to these questions and more. Visit Apple Podcasts to subscribe to Down to Business Engl…

1
Hayabusa2 & Asteroid Mining 9:15

2y ago9:15

9:15

Skip Montreux tells Samantha Vega about the Hayabusa2 space mission to retrieve a sample from a near-earth asteroid. They also report on the very new industry of asteroid mining. What did the Hayabusa missions accomplish? Is it possible to mine gold, platinum, and other metals from an asteroid … and make a profit? What is the business model around …

1
Top Gun copyright issues 20:49

2+ y ago20:49

20:49

Samantha Vega and Skip Montreux report on the copyright issue surrounding Top Gun: Maverick.Who own’s the copyright to the Top Gun: Maverick movie?Will Top Gun: Maverick be taken out of the theaters?How did this legal dispute come about?Listen in to learn the answers to these questions and more. Visit Apple Podcasts to subscribe to Down to Business…

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