In this insightful clip from Market Mondays, Rashad Bilal, Ian Dunlap, and Troy Millings break down one of the most disruptive tech deals of 2024—OpenAI’s $6.5 billion purchase of Johnny Ive’s design company IO. This landmark acquisition signals a major shift in the race for consumer AI devices and puts the future of Apple, the iPhone, and the wider tech ecosystem in the spotlight.

The hosts discuss what this means for the tech giants, questioning if the Apple-led era of hardware innovation is waning. Ian Dunlap argues that the “FANG” days are over, and highlights how OpenAI’s move—combining Johnny Ive’s legendary Apple design pedigree with cutting-edge AI—is set to challenge not just Apple, but also the likes of Amazon and Google. Is this the birth of a new artificial intelligence-powered product that could redefine how we interact with technology and make the iPhone obsolete?

Troy Millings runs through Johnny Ive’s historic impact on Apple, from creating the iMac, iPod, iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch, to reshaping iOS itself. The team reflects on how Apple’s culture might be holding it back from more revolutionary moves, especially as consumer habits begin to shift away from traditional hardware towards integrated AI experiences.

Rashad Bilal expands on what IO brings to the table: a design firm focused on intuitive, screenless, AI-enabled consumer devices, potentially ushering in an era where everyone has a personal AI assistant for daily tasks and life management. The group ponders whether Apple’s leadership—with Tim Cook at the helm—has lost its innovative edge, and discusses if it’s time for a new vision at the top.

The conversation also dives into Apple’s global manufacturing strategy amid US-China trade tensions and potential tariffs, and how that could impact Apple’s bottom line and positioning in the international marketplace.

Highlights include:

• Detailed analysis of OpenAI’s acquisition of IO and what it means for the future of smart devices
• A look back at Johnny Ive’s transformative contributions to Apple’s product line
• The risks and opportunities facing Apple as the tech landscape shifts toward AI
• Discussion of Apple’s leadership, culture, innovation challenges, and massive cash reserves
• Insights on US trade policy, tariffs, and the practicalities of moving manufacturing away from China
• Predictions for both Apple and OpenAI’s future in the global tech hierarchy

Don’t miss this deep dive into the crossroads between AI, design, and the next wave of technology!

*Drop your thoughts in the comments: Is Apple falling behind? Can OpenAI and Johnny Ive really reinvent the future of tech?*

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#MarketMondays #OpenAI #Apple #JohnnyIve #AI #TechNews #iPhone #TimCook #ArtificialIntelligence #Microsoft #Design #Innovation #Tariffs #FutureTech #Investing #Stocks

In this insightful clip, Ian Dunlap, Rashad Bilal, and Troy Millings dive deep into the current state of the US housing market as 30-year mortgage rates soar to 7.5%—levels not seen in decades. The conversation kicks off with pressing questions: Are we witnessing the early stages of a housing affordability crisis? What does this mean for homebuyers, sellers, and the broader economy?

Ian discusses the broader bond market issues, including the recent U.S. Treasury auction struggles and the looming $5 trillion interest payment Americans might face over the next decade. Troy highlights how rising rates, stagnant wages, and mounting personal and institutional debt are making home ownership less attainable, especially for incoming buyers and younger generations. The group also touches on the impact of student loan debt returning from deferment, adding to the financial strains many Americans already face.

Rashad brings practical advice to the table, sharing his personal experience with a cash-out refinance on an investment property. He breaks down how you can leverage auction properties, increase their value, and use cash-out refi strategies to scale a real estate portfolio, even in today’s high-rate environment. The team also discusses the importance of maintaining good credit and the role of financial education in navigating these challenging times.

Whether you’re an aspiring homebuyer, a real estate investor, or just trying to make sense of the headlines, this clip offers invaluable perspectives and tips to help you position yourself for success.

*Key Topics Covered:*

• The impact of 7.5% mortgage rates on housing affordability
• Challenges in the bond market and implications for the U.S. economy
• Supply and demand issues in the housing market
• The effect of student loan and credit card debt on homeownership
• Practical strategies for real estate investment, including cash-out refinancing
• The ongoing need for financial and credit education

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real-world financial insights!

*#MortgageRates #HousingCrisis #RealEstateInvesting #CashOutRefi #FinancialEducation #CreditTips #MarketInsights #Homebuyers #InterestRates #PersonalFinance*

In this insightful Market Mondays clip, Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings take you on a powerful journey across Africa as they reflect on their recent travels to Rwanda and Kenya. From attending the NBA Africa League to meeting with influential dignitaries, entrepreneurs, and local citizens, they share firsthand experiences and lessons from the heart of these dynamic countries.

Discover what makes Rwanda one of the cleanest and safest nations on the continent, boasting remarkable infrastructure, efficient governance, and a welcoming environment for investors and expats alike. Hear about Rwanda’s commitment to sustainability—banning plastic bags and introducing strong environmental policies—and learn how the government works hand-in-hand with private sectors and everyday citizens to drive progress.

Get inspired as Rashad and Troy recount conversations with local entrepreneurs who urge the diaspora to “trade chains for land” and see Africa as a place teeming with investment potential, community, and prosperity. They also highlight Fatima, an innovative entrepreneur shaping Kigali’s real estate scene, and reveal how young, brilliant minds are addressing the continent’s most pressing needs—like the development of tech hubs creating infrastructure for gig workers.

The conversation moves beyond economic opportunities as Rashad and Troy discuss the cultural richness, safety, and clean living that Rwanda offers. They also touch on the experiences of American expats who have chosen Africa for its unparalleled opportunities, friendly communities, and peaceful lifestyles.

Whether you’re curious about African real estate, investment prospects, tech innovation, or lifestyle, this clip offers a rare, on-the-ground perspective from two financial educators and entrepreneurs with global ambitions. Don’t miss out on these invaluable insights on how and why you should consider Africa for your next venture or home.

🔔 If you want actionable tips, real stories, and a deeper connection to the global economy, make sure you subscribe and turn on notifications!

*Hashtags:*

#MarketMondays #AfricaInvestment #Rwanda #Kenya #Entrepreneurship #Diaspora #RealEstate #TechInnovation #CleanEnergy #FinancialFreedom #BusinessTravel #GlobalBusiness #NBAAfrica #EconomicDevelopment #ExpatsInAfrica

In this insightful clip from Market Mondays, Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings dive deep into the financial playbook for college athletes navigating the new world of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals. Discover the real stories behind multi-million dollar agreements, the impact of high-profile transfers like Captain Jack, and learn why some student athletes are out-earning everyone on campus except high-profile coaches!

Rashad and Troy break down the best strategies for young athletes and their families to protect and grow their money, including:

• The importance of long-term investing: Find out why splitting money between index funds, big tech stocks like Microsoft, and even Bitcoin could potentially turn a $1 million NIL deal into $8 million in under a decade.
• Avoiding financial pitfalls: Learn why expensive cars and “entourage” expenses are the fast track to going broke — and how street agents and advisors can eat away at your earnings with hidden percentages.
• The power of deferred income annuities (DIA): Get the blueprint used by legends like Allen Iverson and MLB’s Bobby Bonilla to guarantee lifetime income (even if playing careers or other opportunities don’t pan out).
• Why negotiating fee structures matters—discover why putting business managers on salary (instead of giving away percentages) is the millionaire’s secret to keeping more of what you earn.
• Real-life lessons from sports icons: Understand how financial missteps and a lack of planning have derailed the wealth of top athletes and entertainers, and how a smart approach to NIL can set you up for life, even if you never go pro.

PLUS: The clip offers timely financial warnings, big picture insights about international economic risks, and practical advice for any young star (or their parents) working with agents, managers, or business partners.

Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, or simply interested in how generational wealth is REALLY built, this clip drops a million dollars’ worth of game and actionable tips you can use now.

*Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more financial wisdom from Market Mondays!*

#NIL #FinancialLiteracy #CollegeAthletes #GenerationalWealth #Investing #MarketMondays #SportsBusiness #PersonalFinance #AthleteWealth #MoneyMatters #DeferredAnnuity #FinancialAdvice #Basketball #AllenIverson #BobbyBonilla #WealthBuilding #Castmagic

In this powerful episode of Earn Your Leisure, we sit down with Math Hoffa, Ray Daniels, and Obi Omile to break down the intersection of culture, business, and creativity.

They dive into how they came together to launch the Off The Top freestyle competition, how mixtapes reshaped freestyle culture, and what it takes to grade lyrical talent. Obi shares how he built and raised money for theCut—his revolutionary barber booking app—and the deeper role the barbershop plays in the Black community.

We also unpack the mindset behind building businesses, why collaboration takes discipline, and the harsh truths about podcasting and monetization. From Ray’s Mount Rushmore of Atlanta rappers to the debate on new superstars in the music industry—this one is full of gems.

Link to Invest Fest: https://investfest.com

#EarnYourLeisure #MathHoffa #RayDaniels #ObiOmile #OffTheTop #FreestyleRap #theCut #BarbershopCulture #BlackEntrepreneurs #Podcasting #HipHopBusiness #MusicIndustry #FinancialLiteracy #EYL

In this insightful clip, Ian Dunlap and Rashad Bilal dive deep into some of the biggest topics shaking up the crypto world this year. With Coinbase’s recent addition to the S&P 500, the conversation explores what this monumental move means for crypto legitimacy, bitcoin’s dominance, and investor options in this rapidly evolving space.

The discussion covers:

• *Coinbase Joins the S&P 500:* What does it signal for cryptocurrency mainstream acceptance? Is this a sign that digital assets are here to stay, or just another speculative bubble?
• *Security Concerns:* Recent security breaches, SIM swap scams, and the rising wave of crypto theft. Hear real stories—including Rashad’s personal account—about hacks, risks, and what investors can do to protect themselves.
• *Investment Strategies:* Should you buy Bitcoin, Bitcoin ETFs like IBIT, or stocks such as Coinbase or MicroStrategy? The hosts break down the differences, the potential volatility, and ways to gain exposure to the upside without holding crypto directly.
• *Importance of Security in Crypto:* With over $2.2 billion stolen in 2024 alone, security is a major challenge. Learn about the pros and cons of hot wallets, cold wallets, insurance (or lack thereof), and the future of crypto custodianship.
• *Key Players & Solutions:* As the crypto landscape expands, which security companies might lead the way in protecting digital assets? Discussion includes cybersecurity firms and the need for more robust industry solutions as crypto matures.

Whether you’re a seasoned crypto investor, new to the world of digital currencies, or just looking for practical financial advice—this clip offers actionable insights and honest commentary from two of the industry’s sharpest voices.

*Stay informed, stay protected, and make smart investment choices as the world of crypto continues to change.*

*Timestamps:*

00:00 - Coinbase in the S&P 500: What it Means

02:20 - Security Breaches & Leadership Response

05:10 - Bitcoin, ETFs, & Investing Without Holding Crypto

10:15 - Real-Life Hack Stories & SIM Swap Scams

12:00 - Security Solutions & the Future of Crypto Safety

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*Hashtags:*

#Coinbase #CryptoSecurity #Bitcoin #S&P500 #Investing #CryptoNews #Ethereum #SIMSwap #IBIT #MicroStrategy #Finance #DigitalAssets #WealthBuilding

In this insightful clip, Lex P and Drea Nicole of the Pour Minds podcast join Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings from Earn Your Leisure to break down exactly how successful podcasters make money. If you’ve ever wondered how top podcasts generate multiple streams of income, this conversation is a must-watch.

Lex and Drea get real about the many ways Pour Minds has built revenue—from ad deals, YouTube streams, and Patreon, to live shows, merchandise, ebooks, online courses, and even unique brand partnerships. They share what types of advertisers approach them, why some brands (surprisingly) DON’T sponsor their content, and how their approach to guest booking shaped a loyal and engaged community—the “Pour Crew.”

The discussion dives into:

• Building multiple income streams as a podcaster
• The truth behind ad revenue and sponsorships
• Using YouTube, Patreon, and social media to get paid
• Merch sales, ebooks, courses, and hosting events for extra cash
• Tips for building a long-lasting, supportive audience
• How authenticity and engagement pay off in podcasting
• Behind-the-scenes stories of booking big events and getting their own TV show

Whether you’re a podcaster looking to scale up, a content creator searching for inspiration, or a fan of real business talk, this clip is packed with gems and actionable advice.

*Don’t forget to subscribe for more insider conversations on podcasting, business, and building your brand!*

*Watch. Learn. Earn.*

#Podcasting #EarnYourLeisure #PoorMinds #Monetization #ContentCreation #PodcastTips #YouTubeCreators #SideHustle #AdRevenue #BrandDeals #CreatorEconomy #Entrepreneurship #CommunityBuilding