The Blue Print

Rockets, IQ, and Fast Food

by steve bargdill

In a snapshot of America’s 2024 contradictions, we witness extraordinary technological advancements like SpaceX rockets landing with movie-like precision alongside the dystopian reality of rising costs and labor shortages. While companies like Heliospect Genomics offer the wealthy a $50,000 chance to boost their children’s IQs, everyday workers in fast food, retail, and even academia are struggling to make ends meet, with wages far behind the escalating cost of living. As McDonald’s drive-thrus bustle while dining rooms remain closed due to staffing shortages, New Hampshire’s retail workers are earning just enough to scrape by, their incomes dwarfed by rising housing prices and inflation. Meanwhile, large-scale corporations like Intel and Google are thriving in Ohio, thanks to smart economic strategies. Across the globe, Cuba faces a devastating power crisis, serving as a stark contrast to the U.S.’s technological and economic prowess. Despite these challenges, America’s future looks surprisingly optimistic, with artificial intelligence and continued innovation fueling hope. But while the economy tells one story, the workforce tells another—a tale that leaves us questioning whether progress will come at too high a cost. Want to dig deeper into this complex web of highs and lows?

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Inflation: Understanding its Impact on Prices, Wages, and the Economy

by steve bargdill

Inflation, the gradual increase in the prices of goods and services, affects nearly every aspect of our economy, from grocery bills to housing prices and wages. It can arise from various factors, including increased demand for goods, rising production costs, or expansive monetary policies by central banks, which aim to manage inflation through interest rate adjustments. The Federal Reserve’s dual mandate of maximizing employment while maintaining stable inflation demonstrates the delicate balance necessary for economic health. While moderate inflation can indicate a growing economy, hyperinflation—an extreme and uncontrollable rise in prices—can devastate a nation’s financial stability, as seen in Venezuela’s catastrophic experience where inflation skyrocketed to 63,000%. Price controls may seem like a quick fix, but they often lead to shortages and unintended economic consequences. Understanding these dynamics is crucial, especially as the median home price in New Hampshire hovers around $500,000, raising concerns about affordability amidst rising costs. Want to dive deeper into how inflation shapes our daily lives and the economy?

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I Quit Smoking and Fast Food and Then This Happened

by steve bargdill

I used to think success was all about pushing through, no matter the cost—until my body gave me a wake-up call I couldn’t ignore. Years of chronic pain, bad habits, and denial led to my ankle turning sideways, forcing me to confront the real issue: neglecting my health. I was stuck in a toxic loop of fast food, cigarettes, and frustration, with everything from my job to my marriage unraveling. It wasn’t until I quit smoking, fast food, and soda—thinking I was finally doing everything right—that I discovered I had diabetes. The truth is, success isn’t just about working hard; it’s about being healthy enough to sustain it. Want to know what finally made me turn things around, and what climbing a 76-foot observation tower taught me about rebuilding my life? Click to read the full story—trust me, you’ll want to know how it all played out.

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10 Health Hacks For Successful People

by steve bargdill

Maintaining good health is key to achieving success in all areas of life. From boosting mental clarity to increasing energy levels, taking care of your body and mind helps you perform at your best. The following 10 tips focus on essential habits for improving and sustaining your health so that you can stay productive, motivated, and ready to tackle whatever life throws your way.

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