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The Propeller – MGM Gambled Your Social Security Number and Lost! – 9/24/2023

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MGM has Gambled your Social Security Number

You have probably heard in the news lately about the major casino issues in Las Vegas over the past 10 days.  

Not only did hackers install ransomware on their servers essentially bringing all their casinos to a halt – Hackers admitted to stealing 6 terabytes of data from popular casinos, MGM Resorts, and Caesars Entertainment. Loyalty members’ Social Security and driver’s license numbers were included in the information exposed in early September. If exploited, cybercriminals can use this information to commit identity theft.

If you have ever been to an MGM casino and signed up for their rewards cards to get the freebies they give you, your personal information has been compromised.  Be sure you have your credit frozen with the three major bureaus and you are monitoring your accounts for any signs of identity theft.

Want to know how to freeze your credit?  Re-read the July 23, 2023 issue of the Propeller for all the details.  Here is a link to read it online:   https://www.leonardmack.com/the-propeller-july-23-2023-having-dinner-with-harrison-ford/

 

Curing Cancer with AI

Cancer is one of the most complex and challenging diseases to diagnose and treat, requiring a multidisciplinary approach that combines the best of human intelligence and technology. The company I work for, Microsoft has recently teamed up with digital pathology provider Paige to build the world’s largest image-based AI model for identifying cancer. Together, Paige and Microsoft are building the largest image-based AI model with the ability to train on 4 million slides and identify different types of cancer to enrich the work of pathologists, help with disease detection, and empower clinicians and patients to improve health outcomes. 

Read more about how AI is helping find cancer quicker, for better end results here:  https://www.cnbc.com/2023/09/07/microsoft-paige-building-worlds-largest-ai-model-to-detect-cancer.html 

How to save Money by Adding things to your Online Shopping Cart
We get a dopamine hit from shopping and browsing for things we want to buy. 

Our brain has inadvertently conditioned us to spend for entertainment and fun. 

If you find yourself browsing Best Buy, scrolling Amazon, or looking at the next iPhone, try this:

1. Step away from your computer or phone and take a moment to look around at all the things you’ve bought that you were once so excited about. Ask yourself if you still have the same enthusiasm about them and if they bring you joy. 

Now, look back at what you’re buying. If you’re still genuinely excited about what you’re looking at, go to step 2. 

2. Add the item to your cart, and do NOT check out. Let it wait for tomorrow. By doing this, you’ll get a much better idea if you actually want that item. The more days you can wait before buying, the more accurate it will be. 

Let’s rewire our brains to find more joy and excitement in investing that money rather than spending it on depreciating objects.

BTW – If I’m buying things for entertainment/fun, I’m a big fan of buying EXPERIENCES, not stuff. 
Beware of the Bystander Effect

“Someone else will take care of it.”  How many times have you heard people say that?  How many times have you said that?

If you’re being honest…

I’m sure you can recall at least a few times.  I know I can.

This is a psychological theory called the Bystander Effect.  It says that people are less likely to help someone in need or fix a problem when other people are around.  This also happens to be the reason why most people never end up becoming great at anything…

Not as an entrepreneur.  Not as a friend.  Not as a parent.  Not as a leader.  Not as a fit, functional, productive human.  Because to some degree… They are a bystander in their own life.

Instead of addressing the problems that present themselves, they push them aside for someone or something else to fix it because it’s “not their responsibility.”

What these people fail to realize is that by doing this, they are dismissing valuable opportunities to build discipline…Solve problems…and make themselves more valuable as a result.  Successful people take responsibility and seize these opportunities to build their skillset.  Unsuccessful people avoid responsibility and wait for someone else to do it.

When you correct this behavior within yourself and start addressing these issues whether they’re “your problem” or not… You’ll be amazed at how quickly things will begin to change for you.

What I’m Reading/Listening To This Week

My goal of reading one book a week in 2023 is still underway. 

What I read Last week:

Invention by James Dyson is a captivating journey through the mind of one of the world’s most prolific inventors and engineers. Dyson’s autobiography takes readers on a rollercoaster ride from his early struggles and frustrations to his groundbreaking inventions that have forever changed the way we think about everyday household products.

The book opens with Dyson’s childhood, where his relentless curiosity and determination to understand how things worked set the stage for his future as an inventor. Dyson’s writing style is engaging and personal, making it easy for us to relate to his experiences and aspirations. As he narrates his journey, he shares the ups and downs of his life, providing valuable insights into the world of invention and innovation.

Two of James Dyson’s most iconic inventions, which have had a profound impact on our lives, are the bagless vacuum cleaner and the bladeless fan.

  1. The Bagless Vacuum Cleaner: Dyson’s relentless pursuit of perfection led him to redesign the conventional vacuum cleaner. His frustration with the clogging and loss of suction in traditional bag-based models inspired him to develop a bagless vacuum cleaner. The cyclone technology he invented not only eliminated the need for bags but also ensured consistent suction power throughout the cleaning process. This innovation revolutionized the vacuum cleaner industry and made household cleaning more efficient and environmentally friendly.

  2. The Bladeless Fan (Dyson Air Multiplier): Another iconic invention by James Dyson is the bladeless fan. Traditional fans used blades to create airflow, which often resulted in uneven, noisy, and potentially dangerous operations. Dyson’s bladeless fan, known as the Air Multiplier, uses a unique design to amplify surrounding air, producing a smooth and quiet stream of air. This invention not only improved the safety and aesthetics of fans but also enhanced their functionality. The Dyson Air Multiplier became a symbol of innovative design and engineering.

Invention not only delves into the technical aspects of these inventions but also reveals the challenges, setbacks, and moments of inspiration that shaped Dyson’s career. His relentless pursuit of excellence and his willingness to challenge conventional wisdom serve as inspiring lessons for aspiring inventors and entrepreneurs.

Dyson’s autobiography is a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance. It offers a glimpse into the mind of a visionary inventor who dared to question the status quo and redefine industries. Invention is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of innovation, engineering, and the remarkable impact of James Dyson’s top inventions on our daily lives.

Get your copy here:  https://amzn.to/3ZmQR7V


What I am reading this week:
 

Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience


From the Amazon Description:  “Number one New York Times best-seller

In her latest book, Brené Brown writes, “If we want to find the way back to ourselves and one another, we need language and the grounded confidence to both tell our stories and to be stewards of the stories that we hear. This is the framework for meaningful connection.”

In Atlas of the Heart, Brown takes us on a journey through 87 of the emotions and experiences that define what it means to be human. As she maps the necessary skills and an actionable framework for meaningful connection, she gives us the language and tools to access a universe of new choices and second chances – a universe where we can share and steward the stories of our bravest and most heartbreaking moments with one another in a way that builds connection.”

Get your copy and read/listen along at: https://amzn.to/3F8YYMl

 

May your week be full of laughter, good times, and immense growth of your stock portfolio,

 

This is re-published from the weekly email sent by Leonard Mack entitled The Propeller. To subscribe, visit https://www.LeonardMack.com/subscribe and read it every Sunday evening.

This intellectual nourishment is intended for informational purposes only. One should not construe anything herein as being legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

My rule is this – I have no advice to give, only experience to share. I have no interest in being a guru or telling people what they should do. Rather, I share my own experience because there is no right or wrong. Your mileage may vary.

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