Morning Brew’s Post

These layoffs don't only affect tech and software employees, the finance and accounting industry is getting hit hard too. I know of far too many layoffs that have occurred over the past month. Through my discussions with others, it appears we are at a turning point in the labor market that will hopefully correct itself soon. The desire for cutting costs and utilizing AI is often blamed for this disruption (as well as poor trends in the current market which is spooking investors and making it more difficult to secure financing). What we are really experiencing is a need to change the way we, as human beings, work and present ourselves. Automating the accounting and bookkeeping industry using AI is something I've noticed over the past few years to be dangerous and too quick to implement. The truth is too many mistakes are being made while AI is being rushed towards implementation and companies are both struggling with client and talent retention. Lower enrollment rates to college and CPA programs are also creating a deficit in the oversight of financial reporting in this country. We are facing a worsening talent shortage with higher employee turnover rates that only seems to be getting worse when you look at the statistical trends. These impacts to the tech and (especially the finance) industry could cause major ripples in the American economy this year and unlike banks, aren't likely to get the benefit of corporate bailouts from the government. We, as a country, really need to spend the next year thinking about the distinctions between what AI and a working professional can accomplish and in some cases we need to start pumping the brakes a little on how quickly AI is being utilized in these critical sectors of our economy.

In January 1983, Apple was introduced through a nine-page advertisement in the New York Times. Unfortunately, the ad was full of technical jargon and specialised language making it difficult for the the general public to comprehend. Apart from NASA, nobody showed interest in the product and it managed to sell only 10,000 units. Fourteen years later, Jobs realised that he needed to communicate to his customers better. His solution was a transformative campaign encapsulated in just two words: 'Think different'. This campaign ran successfully for several years, marking a complete turnaround for the business. In storytelling, short and simple works! But this is hard to do! What is your experience/ struggle with landing a message in a simple way? Do share in the comments below. #theartsquotient #weavingtales #storytelling #leadershipskills #corporatestorytelling #communicationskills #leadershipstories #taq #storiesatwork #playthelead #actforchange

I really enjoyed taking part in this PA Consulting session on how we communicate the importance of space to life on Earth. Effects from space-based technologies are global in reach and therefore geopolitical in nature. It is vital that we communicate to international audiences why Britain as a Space Power matters to them, in order to support the UK's objectives to protect people and planet, boost prosperity and understand our Universe. There is already a recognition in Government that there is a need to communicate the UK’s role in space to an international audience. The National Space Strategy (NSS) In Action report, commits the UK to “deliver a single narrative to better communicate the government’s ambitions and activities in the space sector across all our economic, national security, and diplomatic interests.” The UK is already a Soft Power superpower with our Higher Education and scientific achievements driving positive international perceptions (look at the Soft Power Index and the Nation Brands Index). However, these attributes haven't translated to the UK being perceived globally as a key player in the space domain. As a key destination for space investment, a key member of the European Space Agency - ESA, the world's second largest manufacturer of satellites, and a global leader in the responsible use of outer space, the UK has a great story to tell on space. UKspace UK Space Command #Communications #ScienceCommunications #SpaceCommunications #SoftPower #PublicDiplomacy Allen Antrobus

Another great #aerospace event yesterday, I moderated the panel where we had a lively discussion supply chain issues in the industry. A shout out to our panelists Eric Grabow, Barry Hamilton, Mike Sneddon and our cohosts the Colorado Space Business Roundtable and the NDIA RMC. Holland & Hart LLP generously provided their venue. Some key takeaways: * Commercialization is key driver for the industry * Competition with Russia and China also long-term drivers * More pressure for quick turn-around on RFPs for firm fixed price contracts * Emphasis on big companies treating subs as partners * Government programs and contracts tend to take longer to engage whereas commercial has more pressure for quicker turnarounds * NASA budget cuts and JPL layoffs have had a negative impact

At least once a week I feel inspired by a story I was once told regarding JFK and importance of everyone working towards a common goal, no matter their percieved status. During a visit to NASA's headquarters at Cape Canaveral (now Kennedy Space Center) in the early 1960s, President Kennedy was touring the facility to promote the United States' space efforts. As he walked around, he encountered a janitor who was busily sweeping the floor. Kennedy, known for his friendly and approachable demeanor, stopped and asked the janitor what he was doing. The janitor responded, "Well, Mr. President, I'm helping put a man on the moon." This response encapsulates the spirit of the time and the collective effort behind the ambitious goal set by Kennedy himself: to land a man on the moon and return him safely to Earth by the end of the decade. The janitor's reply illustrated how every person involved in the space program, regardless of their role, felt a sense of contribution and pride in the mission. This resonates with me on several levels. Not only about how everyone in an organisation is key to its success, irrespective of their role, but also the need for everybody to be seen. With some groups, including the neurodiverse, there can be a sense of 'They cant do X' because of a percieved weakness. But often the case is that it is because their significant strength lies elsewhere. Someone may not be great at visualising numbers or letters, but they doesnt stop them potentially having the most amazing creative ideas. Within a workplace its important to celebrate the different skills we have, and whilst some people may be labelled as having a disability, it may be that they actually possess a superpower. Finding ways to unlock those powers are key to success in an inclusive organisation.

Ready for Your Moment? Today was a big milestone: we dropped off our girls for their first day of Kindergarten and Pre-K. After days of preparation—uniforms laid out, backpacks ready—everything went as smoothly as it could for our 4 and 5-year-olds. This moment of readiness got me reflecting on the importance of preparation in both the military and business worlds. Two years ago, at the Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, I experienced this firsthand. This major event brings together the private sector, NASA, and the military to collaborate and share innovations. My role? Just an attendee—until lunchtime on the first day. While having lunch with my 4-Star boss and listening to a panel, I was informed that the Secretary of the Navy couldn’t make it and asked if I could replace him on stage. Stunned, honored, and excited, I didn't have anything prepared. But living by the mantra "every day is an interview," I was ready. I read, listen, and practice my craft daily. Taking the stage was my opportunity to demonstrate that others can rise to the occasion as well—all we need is a chance. While I'll let others judge my performance, I was pleased with how it went. I was grateful to my Commander for giving me the opportunity and to the Space Symposium team for their support. This is what life is about. At some point, you'll be asked to take the stage. Are you preparing for that moment? How are you showing others that they can rely on you when the time comes? If you’re interested, you can watch my remarks from the event on YouTube, I'll put a link to them in the comments section. Looking for a speaker for your next event? Reach out—I’d love to deliver for your audience! Don't get ready, stay ready!

Come join our session on #creativity at #SIOP2024!

In 1962, the president of the United States, John F. Kennedy(JFK) was visiting the NASA space center. While visiting, he saw a janitor carrying a broom. He walked over to him. 😊 JFK: "Hi, I am John F Kennedy. What are you doing." Janitor: "Well Mr. President, I’m helping put a man on the moon." 🚀 I have come across many professionals who are working in prestigious organizations that are dreams, to work at, for millions of individuals. However, they don’t feel proud talking about the work they do. We need to comprehend how we aid to the betterment of the world through little contributions through our work. ✨🌍 A universal psychological need we all yearn for is "our significance in the world." And it can be fulfilled through the work we do. Next time someone asks you, "What do you do?" Try saying: I assist banks with payment security. 💳 I assist a leading e-commerce business in serving additional customers. 🛍️ I’m assisting my employer to find the best talents for our organization. 🤝 I assist my firm in maximizing its profit. 💼💰 Feel free to connect with me here Ashish Barnwal #career #fulfillingcareer #fulfillment #proudemployee #happinessatwork

Inspiring article Preeya!

Leave a comment “GAME” and we’ll send you a FREE text-based game set in the Space Chronicles universe directly to your DMs. We’ve created three models of clocks inspired by this universe, featuring Soviet-era vacuum indicators: 1. The Promethean Live Module Nixie Clock – This is the Guild’s base, home to the local community of spacemen and other space workers. The case is made of durable polymer resin and hand-painted, using Soviet IN-12 nixie tubes. 2. The Ice Comet Device Nixie Clock – A non-lethal weapon designed to stop aggressors without causing harm. The case is made of transparent polymer resin, featuring rare Soviet IV-11 vacuum fluorescent displays. 3. Prometheus Envoy Nixie Clock – A spaceship issued by the Guild to the Spaceman. The case is also hand-painted, utilizing Soviet IN-14 nixie tubes. Now, let’s dive into our game. First, meet our heroes: 👨🚀 Captain Green – A wise and optimistic space captain who always finds a way out of any situation thanks to his charm and luck. Technology is his second nature. 👩🚀 Alice – A young and dynamic cadet of Captain Green. Her unique perspective and ability to pilot spacecraft make her indispensable. 🪲 Jim – A space bug from the Xentoids. He is kind and very strong, though not the brightest. His passions are working out and protein bars. Get ready for cosmic adventures where your decisions can change the fate of galaxies. 🚀