Sailing Into the Future: The Digital Revolution of Maritime Adventures

In the ever-changing landscape of the sailing holiday industry, the winds of digitalization have propelled a significant revolution. The allure of sailing holidays, characterized by the promise of adventure on the open seas, has found a new home in the digital realm. This article embarks on a journey to explore how online platforms are steering the course toward the future, reshaping the way sailing enthusiasts plan and embark on maritime adventures.

Gone are the days of physically visiting agencies and leafing through glossy brochures. Today, the sailing experience begins with just a few clicks. Virtual yacht tours, a hallmark feature of online platforms, allow prospective sailors to explore vessels with unprecedented detail from the comfort of their homes. This immersive experience not only saves time but also enhances the decision-making process.

Convenience stands as one of the key advantages of booking sailing holidays online. The entire process, from exploring various destinations to choosing vessels and planning itineraries, can be seamlessly executed through user-friendly online interfaces. Sailing enthusiasts can navigate the digital seas, discovering a multitude of options without leaving the confines of their homes.

Accessibility is another pivotal factor in the digital revolution of sailing holidays. Online platforms have broken down geographical barriers, allowing sailing enthusiasts from around the world to access a diverse range of options. This increased accessibility has transformed sailing into a global pursuit, catering to a diverse audience with varied preferences.

The impact of this digital transformation is not confined to the booking process alone. Social media platforms have become dynamic spaces for sailing enthusiasts to connect, share experiences, and discover new destinations. The sailing community, once bound by physical proximity, has expanded into a vibrant online network, fostering connections across continents.

E-sailing agencies, a product of this digital evolution, have further streamlined the booking process. Personalized itineraries, secure payment options, and instant confirmations are now standard offerings. The digitalization of transactions not only enhances efficiency but also contributes to a more secure and transparent sailing experience.

In conclusion, the digital revolution in the sailing holiday industry is not merely a trend; it represents a transformative shift. The convenience, accessibility, and innovations brought about by online platforms are redefining how sailing holidays are planned and enjoyed. As we sail into the future, the industry is poised for continued growth and evolution, promising exciting opportunities for both providers and enthusiasts alike.

Antony Turbeville Focuses on Continued Development of Platinum Benefit Services

The insurance and financial services industry is very important, ensuring everyone has the resources to achieve their financial and personal goals. One individual who has continued to be a leader in this industry is Antony Lee Turbeville, the founder, chairman, and CEO of Platinum Benefit Services today. While he continues to lead this organization today, he has a long track record of educational and professional success, allowing him to get to this point.

Antony Turbeville Earns Degree in Business Administration

Like many others pursuing a business career, Antony Turbeville learned the roots of what he needed to know while in school. After high school, he attended Troy State University in Troy, Alabama. In 1986, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration while focusing on banking and finance, which provided core knowledge as he started his career.

Early Career in Banking

To start his career, Antony Lee Turbeville went into banking. In this role, he assisted various personal and commercial clients in receiving the debt and savings products they needed to achieve their goals. After moving up the ladder with various institutions, he eventually started Community Southern Bank in Lakeland, Florida, in 2005. He was this bank’s key leader and chairman from 2005 until 2011 and helped the bank receive several awards and accolades. The bank was eventually sold in 2015.

Establishment of Platinum Benefit Services

While also working in banking, Antony Turbeville saw a disconnect between government benefit options and the ability for someone to gain access to them. Knowing there was a deep market to serve, he created a new company called Platinum Benefit Services. This organization is dedicated to ensuring qualified individuals can access Medicaid, VA, and other government benefits. As founder and CEO of Platinum Benefit Services, Tony is well known for being a leading expert in the field, as he has helped nearly 13,000 clients get through the red tape and gain access to Medicaid benefits.

Antony Lee Turbeville Continues to Find Ways to Give Back

While he continues to be busy working and running his company, Antony Lee Turbeville has persisted in finding ways to give back to his community. Due to this unique professional history and set of skills, he has been a great addition to several non-profit boards. One board and organization he has been involved with is the Child Development Center of Polk County, which helps ensure that children throughout the area can access the resources they need to thrive.  

Throughout his career, Antony Lee Turbeville has been dedicated to helping people gain access to various benefits and other resources. As he continues to lead Platinum Benefit Services, he and his organization will look for additional ways to serve their clients and ensure they receive the support they are entitled to.

Paul Benevente Talks About the Latest Trends in the Medical Sales Industry

The medical sales industry has had its ups and downs over the years. But it certainly has a lot going for it. Players in this space need to embrace what’s working to stay competitive. Moreover, the latest trends are exciting.

Paul Benevente, a sales rep in the healthcare sector, is always enthralled by what’s to come. He believes the best way to take advantage of new trends is to set forward-thinking sales goals. Some things that excite him include the increased popularity of medical devices. What’s more, older adults are spending a lot more on healthcare.

For Benevente, figuring out how these changes fit into the sales matrix is vital. That’s why he spends time making sense of what’s new and what’s to come. There’s money to make if you get your ducks in a row.

Here’s how everything looks and what may come in the future.

More digital products

It’s almost impossible to talk about new trends in any sector without saying something about new tech innovations. And the healthcare industry is no exception. Biotechnology is undoubtedly doing its bit to change the medical device sales industry’s complexion. For sales reps, this trend brings more niches.

Think of medical wearables like smartwatches to help monitor patients’ conditions and activities. By selling these devices, sales professionals can do more.

The best part is that more patients will use these and other high-tech devices going forward. Some devices available on the market include IV medication pumps, blood sugar measuring devices, and insulin pumps. Even monitors previously only available in healthcare facilities are heading into homes.

Another thing that’ll make the devices popular is that prices are going down. Moreover, they’re getting more accurate. All of that bodes well for a big jump in medical device sales. Benevente says quotas of salespeople working this segment will go off the charts. That’s something to smile about.

Opportunities in international markets

Countries importing a lot of their medical supplies create opportunities for salespeople in developed countries. These markets are growing faster, creating good opportunities for sales reps in specific segments. Benevente says experts agree that regulatory authorities in these markets will approve more manufacturers to sell medical products. That’s good news for sales professionals looking to grow their market base.

Increased spending by older adults

There’s no denying that older adults are big spenders in healthcare. But then experts see more gains in the coming years – something medical sales professionals will like. One of the reasons for the increased spending is that more over-60s are running around. And that’s not about to change. The numbers will keep rising.

Another thing about this trend is that seniors invest more in comprehensive insurance plans. That way, they can get the best of what insurance plans can afford. What’s more, they don’t just spend on medications. A lot of their money pays for medical devices and equipment like wheelchairs, IV medication pumps, walkers, and blood sugar measuring devices.

So, salespeople can look forward to selling more devices and medications. This demand is good for the healthcare industry.

About Paul Benevente

Born in Lindenhurst, NY, Paul boasts many years of medical sales experience. He’s passionate about providing clients high-quality medical supplies and excellent support services.

Breaking Boundaries and Paving the Way: How Meg Epstein Emerged as a Dominant Force in Nashville’s Business Community

Meg Epstein is a true force to be reckoned with in the world of business, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. Her remarkable achievements and contributions to the thriving Nashville business community have garnered her widespread recognition and admiration from a variety of esteemed organizations. With accolades from the likes of the Nashville Business Journal, Globe Street, and the Nashville Entrepreneur Center, it’s clear that Epstein’s impact has been nothing short of extraordinary. In this piece, we’ll delve deeper into her impressive awards and accomplishments, as well as explore her affiliations with organizations that reflect her unwavering dedication to both her industry and the community at large.

Affiliations and Community Involvement

Meg Epstein is an active member of several organizations and a dedicated philanthropist committed to supporting causes related to sustainability, education, and healthcare. Some of her notable affiliations include:

  • YPO – Young Presidents Organization: Epstein is a member of the YPO, a global organization for young business leaders.
  • Nashville Civic Design Center (Board Member): Epstein is a board member of the Nashville Civic Design Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of the built environment in Nashville.
  • Walk Bike Nashville Sponsor: Epstein is a sponsor of Walk Bike Nashville, an organization that promotes walking, biking, and public transit in Nashville.
  • Impact100 Nashville: Epstein is a member of Impact100 Nashville, a women’s collective giving organization that supports nonprofit organizations in the Nashville area.
  • ULI – Urban Land Institute (Silver Sponsor): Epstein is a Silver Sponsor of ULI, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable land use and real estate development.
  • McWhorter’s Circle – Nashville Entrepreneur Center: Epstein is a member of the McWhorter’s Circle at the Nashville Entrepreneur Center, a group of business leaders who support entrepreneurship and innovation in Nashville.
  • Forbes Real Estate Council: Epstein is a member of the Forbes Real Estate Council, a group of industry leaders who contribute to Forbes’ real estate coverage.
  • Habitat for Humanity: Epstein is a supporter of Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit organization that builds and repairs homes for families in need.
  • Braintrust Founding Member: Epstein is a founding member of Braintrust, a network of business leaders and innovators who collaborate on various projects.
  • CCIM Nashville Chapter: Epstein is a member of the CCIM Nashville Chapter, a professional organization for commercial real estate practitioners.
  • Greenways for Nashville (Sponsor): Epstein is a sponsor of Greenways for Nashville, an organization that promotes the development and maintenance of greenways and trails in the Nashville area.
  • WBENC – Women’s Business Enterprise Council: Epstein is a member of the Women’s Business Enterprise Council, a nonprofit organization that supports and advocates for women-owned businesses.
  • WOSB – Women-Owned Business Certification: Epstein’s company, CA South, is certified as a Women-Owned Small Business, demonstrating her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the industry.

Conclusion

Meg Epstein is a highly accomplished business leader and entrepreneur whose remarkable achievements and contributions to the Nashville business community have earned her widespread recognition and respect. Her unwavering commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and community involvement, coupled with her visionary approach and entrepreneurial spirit, have garnered her numerous awards and accolades, positioning her as a true leader in her industry. Epstein’s positive involvement with organizations protecting religious freedoms has also drawn some attention, with supporters noting the organizations’ commitment to personal growth, social responsibility, and humanitarian efforts. Through her ongoing success and positive impact, Epstein serves as an inspiration and role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and female leaders, demonstrating the immense potential that can be realized through dedication and hard work.

Financial Advisor Don Dirren Gives 5 Practical Uses for Term Life Insurance

Most people are familiar with whole life insurance and that it can help to leave a financial legacy for beneficiaries. Experienced Financial Advisor, Donald Dirren, says there is an affordable alternative to whole life that is affordable and protects family assets and lifestyles.

That alternative is term life insurance. As the name suggests, term life insurance is in effect for a specific period of time or a “term.” Once that time period has expired, so does the life insurance policy.

1. Protect Family Against Sudden Loss of Income

Don Dirren says term life will produce a significant payout that is based on the amount of coverage that you obtained. If you should pass on while the term life policy is in effect, the insurer will pay the insured amount to your chosen beneficiaries.

That payout can help to protect your family’s assets and prevent a significant change in their standard of living if you are the primary source of income for your family.

2. Pay for Medical Bills and Funeral Expenses

Term life is especially useful for paying off short-term financial obligations if the insured person should die while the policy is in effect. Those short-term obligations might include medical bills and funeral expenses that other insurance policies do not cover.

3. Mortgage Protection for Your Home and Properties

Many people buy homes and other properties with mortgages that require payments over many years. Donald Dirren notes term life is a terrific financial tool for protecting those financial obligations and ensuring those debts are paid if you die unexpectedly. You can buy a decreasing term life policy whose coverage amount and cost decrease as your debt gradually becomes less and less.

4. Ensure Children’s College Tuition and Costs

If you have children who are enrolled in college or plan to enroll, term life can ensure the tuition is paid if you are no longer around. Term life is an affordable way to ensure your children’s educational future.

5. Protect Family Assets and Businesses

Term life helps to ensure your family’s assets remain in the family upon your passing. Instead of forcing a sale of assets to raise funds, your family can hold onto them and continue to benefit from owning them.

Why Term Life Is Preferable to Whole Life Products

Term life does not come with a guaranteed payout like whole life insurance. Instead, it exists for as long as you need to protect certain financial obligations, like a home mortgage, protecting business assets, or ensuring your children’s college tuition is paid if you should pass on unexpectedly.

Term life also is much easier to obtain than whole life insurance because the policyholder does not have to undergo medical examinations. Because there is no guaranteed payout, insurers are more willing to underwrite coverage and charge less. That makes term life insurance a very smart investment for protecting financial obligations that eventually will not exist after a period of time, such as a home mortgage. 

Paul Inouye Discusses Best Practices in Mergers and Acquisitions Structuring  

 When implemented correctly, mergers and acquisitions (M&As) can be beneficial. To get it right, you must know how to handle the complexities. Paul Inouye, an investment banker, says that’s where good corporate governance comes in. He emphasized that properly managing an organization’s internal structures and processes is vital to successful M&As.

Proper governance makes it easier to form a new entity the right way. That way, everything falls into place. Policies, competencies, and procedures align seamlessly, ensuring a smooth merger. The best part about effective corporate governance is that you won’t struggle managing risks.

On top of that, it helps you comply with regulations while running the business more efficiently. It also ensures successful outcomes by focusing on shareholder value. With all these ducks in a row, maintaining continuity between the two companies is a breeze. Best of all, there’ll be transparency and effective communication.

So, what’s the best way to approach mergers and acquisitions? Here are the things Inouye says you should do.

Understand the organization better

It’s common for entities with different yet complementary characteristics to join forces. One organization may do things centrally while another spreads things around. Because of this, Paul recommends learning as much as possible about an entity’s regional variability.

Familiarize yourself with its processes and structures at a granular level. While you’re at it, get to know how both companies organize and manage critical data. This information includes products, customers, and locations.

Come up with good communication strategies

For an M&A to work, there’s a big need to define how various structures interact and share information. Inouye says this bit is super-important because the information isn’t always readily available or known. That’s why it’d be best to provide information kits. Doing so makes everyone’s job so much easier.

The last thing you want is to create information gaps that cause confusion. On the other hand, a good communication plan ensures that collaboration and productivity kick into high gear early on.

It’s vital that the communication kits indicate how the merger boosts both entities’ fortunes. The two organizations could benefit by improving the ease of doing business, cost savings, and a bigger portfolio. You can motivate employees by highlighting what kind of career development opportunities will arise.

Also, indicate the merger’s scope and schedule. At the same time, don’t forget to keep technology vendors and other stakeholders in the loop. That way, everyone understands the impact of changes and what’s expected of them.

Harnessing transformational value

Although it’s given that an M&A brings value to both entities, it’s best to maximize benefits by harnessing the combined resources. Paul says you must find ways to make the most of cost reduction and operational efficiency. So, look at the technology, skills base, and processes at your disposal.

Use these assets to increase the overall competitiveness and market share. If you do things right, getting new customers that were out of reach before the merger should be easier. Meanwhile, technological assets provide a surefire way to make things run more smoothly, boosting productivity. As a result, the business expands more rapidly in existing and new markets.

What’s more, your offerings may increase based on the other entity’s product or service suite.

About Paul Inouye

Paul has an MBA from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania who ks based in Portola Valley, CA. He’s an investment banker who understands the importance of embracing M&A best practices for a successful outcome. Outside of work, he enjoys cycling, cross fit and travel.

Rodrigo Alonso Salas Musso On the Connection Between Music and Creativity

Rodrigo Alonso Salas Musso has long believed in the importance of music and creativity and the unique ways that music can help a person mentally and emotionally. His thinking isn’t too far off because scientists have discovered that music is one of the most creative forms of expression and a key factor in a person’s creativity and emotional strength.

Rodrigo Alonso Salas Musso: Why Music is Important

Over the years, Rodrigo Alonso Salas Musso has listened to and created music and found that it continually provided him with joy, wonder, and excitement. He’s not alone: music is integral to millions of people’s lives and can be critically important for emotional health and well-being. A recent study examined this connection and showcased how much music taps into a person’s creativity.

This study was published in the journal PLOS ONE and found that “happy” music helped people perform better on various intellectual and creative tasks, mainly when working on divergent thinking. Divergent thinking is critical to developing new concepts and creating information in surprising forms. While the study focused on classical music, its find was not surprising.

Rodrigo Alonso Salas Musso has believed for years that music is one of the key factors of creative thinking and that stimulating and exciting music is important for making a person more creative. The science behind it isn’t important to him, and even in the study, they weren’t sure exactly what caused this increase in divergent thinking and why this impacted so many people.

Salas Musso believes music taps into people’s emotional hearts more effectively than any other art. Music sounds can be happy, sad, angry, soothing, and funny. The ways that these tones interact with the brain can enhance a person’s mental state, such as happy and thrilling music, making it easier for people to focus heavily on creative work and produce fascinating and divergent results.

However, the study highlighted an essential fact that Rodrigo Alonso Salas Musso understands all too well. Listening to depressing or anxious music when already feeling that way can increase these emotions and worsen their mood. Furthermore, music can also distract people who are already anxious and increase their worry, making it essential to choose the right music.

Regardless of this concern, this study is an important one because it could provide people with a way of boosting their creativity in unexpected ways. While the results may not be dramatic, a little music in the background may help people on the verge of a creative breakthrough reach it or find a better way of enhancing their current lives.

That’s a big deal and shouldn’t be ignored, Rodrigo Alonso Salas Musso believes. For example, music therapy could help young children live healthier lives, boost their overall mood, and enhance their creativity.

Tax Relief Attorney Terry Selb Offers Tax Preparation Tips for the Upcoming Tax Season

Tax Relief Attorney Terry Selb Offers Tax Preparation Tips for the Upcoming Tax Season

Tax season 2023 is approaching, and preparedness is essential to not getting overwhelmed. Tax attorney Terrance “Terry” Selb is an expert in tax law and solutions. He recently offered his top tax preparation tips.

Start Now

Selb’s No. 1 tip for preparing for tax season is to start as early as possible. He recommended that individuals or families with simple returns e-file early for the quickest turnaround time. Direct deposit also ensures your refund goes into your account ASAP.

Individuals, families, and organizations with more complex returns should start gathering all their documents and information now. Speak with a qualified tax professional to ensure you have everything you need. You’ll also save countless hours and headaches by having a professional prepare and file your taxes.

Check Out the New Rules for 2023

Terry Selb explained that the rules regarding credits and dedication change regularly, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and recent world events. He recommends reviewing new rules for 2023, as they can increase your return or reduce the amount you’re required to pay. 

For example, child tax credits that increased in 2021 are back down to the 2019 amount. Most earned income tax credits will also be lower than last year. However, clean energy vehicle tax credits up to $7,500 are still available, as well as premium tax credits for individuals with health insurance through the marketplace. 

Arrange Your Credits and Deductions

Once you’re familiar with the new tax laws for 2023, start arranging your credits and deductions. Gather documents that display information like social security benefits, alimony, investment income, student loan interest, mortgage points, and more. 

Decide How You’ll File Your Taxes

There are numerous ways to file taxes. Some are more beneficial for individuals with simple tax situations, while others work better for families or businesses with more potential complications.

Decide how you’ll file your taxes, whether you use an online platform or speak one-on-one with a tax professional. Filing with a professional is highly recommended, as they can ensure all forms are correct. 

They can also help ensure you use all credits and deductions to get the highest possible return. A qualified tax professional can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Selb and American Tax Solutions

Terrance Selb is an expert in finding tax solutions for everyone, from individuals to large corporations. You can contact his team for a confidential and free consultation before getting started solving any issues you may have regarding taxes, including liens, asset seizures, wage garnishments, and more. 

Selb and his team make it their mission to solve your tax problems and create a plan that works for future tax seasons. From IRS representation to estate and trust tax preparation, American Tax Solutions can relieve all the stress you may be feeling about the upcoming tax season.

Don Mihalik: Will Florida Real Estate Prices Drop in 2023?

Don Mihalik: Will Florida Real Estate Prices Drop in 2023?

Donald Mihalik has been a successful real estate professional in the state of Florida for a long time. Over the course of his career, he has been involved in local real estate sales, mortgage originations, and even property management services. Similar to other real estate professionals in the state, he has seen dramatic improvements in real estate values in the state over the past few years. While the Florida real estate market did well over the past few years, there are concerns about the near-term future in 2023. Various factors could influence real estate prices in the state in 2023.

Current Real Estate Trends

When looking to project real estate values in 2023 and beyond, Donald Mihalik and others will first look at current and recent trends. Similar to other states, Florida saw considerable increases in value from 2020 through early 2022. From May 2020 to May 2022, the median sales price in the state increased by nearly 50%. However, since then, the values have declined each month slightly and are now down nearly 5% from the peak. Further, the volume of homes sold has declined more than 25% year-over-year as of September 2022, and homes tend to sit longer before a sale takes place.

Factors to Influence 2023 Values

Clearly, there has been a slowdown in the real estate market in Florida since mid-2022. Donald Mihalik and others believe that 2023 could also be affected due to various factors. There are various reasons why values could be affected in the coming year.

Sticker Shock of Prices

One of the reasons that home buyers may be shy about purchasing a home in 2023 is the sticker shock of prices. While most people agree that homeownership is an excellent long-term investment, there is a point where it makes more sense to rent. With home prices up more than 50% over a two-year period, Donald Mihalik and others believe there is a chance that many people could be priced out of the market.

Increased Interest Rates

One of the reasons for the dramatic rise in values over the past few years was the decline to historically-low interest rates. Many qualified owners could refinance their loans or purchase a home with a new mortgage and take out a loan at under 3%. Due to rising interest rates, mortgage rates in less than a year have increased to more than 7%. This dramatically increases the monthly mortgage payment and could make home ownership unaffordable.

Low Supply and Growing State Could Offset Declines

While high prices and mortgages could make owning a home unaffordable, the state housing market does have some things working in its favor. Donald Mihalik and others continue to point out that Florida is one of the fastest-growing states in the country, which increases housing demand. As supply remains low due to the costs of building new and people are reluctant to sell, the average values could continue to remain high.

Overall, Florida has had a solid real estate market over the past few years. While values have gone up considerably in this time, there is a chance that they could head in the other direction in 2023. Donald Mihalik and other real estate professionals in the state have identified various reasons why this could occur.

3 Signs That You Should Be Looking For A Better Career

Just because you have a certain job right now doesn’t mean that that job is going to be the best for you for the rest of your time in the workforce. But because seeking a new job can be quite the headache, many people are willing to put up with jobs that they don’t love just for convenience. However, at a certain point, finding a new job may be the best option for you.

To help you to know if and when this is the case for you, here are three signs that you should be looking for a better career. 

You Don’t Have Growth Opportunities

At the best of jobs, having the possibility for career advancement is vital. Without this, you could find yourself stuck in a dead end job that won’t allow for things like better pay, a better position, more responsibility and experience, and more. So if you’re currently working at a company or in a job where moving onward and upward isn’t something that seems like a possibility for you, it could be well worth your while to look for a new job that will give you this capability. 

You Feel Bored With Your Job

Although many people don’t particularly enjoy the work that they do each and every day, if you’ve found that you’re regularly bored with the work that you’re doing, it might be a good sign that you should be looking for a new job to take on. 

While being bored at work isn’t the worst thing, if you’re newer in your career, you could have decades left being in the workforce before you’re able to retire. And if you spend all of those years not being challenged or curious about the work that you’re doing, which can happen even with a job that you used to love, you might want to look into a new career that can be more exciting for you at this point in your life. 

You Can’t Properly Prepare For Retirement

The last thing you want to have happen to you is to go from working in a job that you hate to not even being able to retire the way that you want to when you’re done working. And because retirement can be expensive, especially if you’re likely to move into an assisted living facility, you’ll want to be sure that the job you have enables you to retire comfortably. 

So if your current employer doesn’t have a good retirement program for you to invest in or you’re not making enough money to put a decent amount of funds toward your retirement, it might be time to look for something that will help you be more financially stable for the long run. 

If you’ve been wondering whether you should stick it out at your current job that you don’t like or look for something new, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you in making this decision.