About 360 MAGAZINE

360 MAGAZINE is an award-winning international publishing on popular culture and design. We introduce avant trademarks to efficacious architects. We are a LGBTQIA2S+ friendly publication--officially recognized by the NGLCC. Our core demographic ranges from 19 to 39-year-old college-educated trendsetters within their respective international communities. The pages in this art book satisfy their strong interests including music, art, travel, auto, health, fashion, tech, philanthropy, design, food and entrepreneurship. It's an introspective digital/print/tablet portrait series, which encapsulates artists/brands/entities who embody the true essence of our publication- empowerment, equality, sensuality and most important of all, humanity within a global society.

Classic CBDfx Gummies: What They Are and How to Buy Them

CBD edibles in the form of gummies are the most popular among the considerable assortment of cannabinoid-infused goods. It’s one of the most preferred ways to try CBD and experience its benefits. However, navigating the vast world of CBD-infused edibles to choose the right product can become challenging. The market is already oversaturated with brands offering gummies of different shapes, tastes, and colors. Moreover, the concentration of CBD per gummy can vary significantly.

Considering all the above, it’ll be a smart move to opt for a well-established company like CBDfx. One can easily buy classic CBDfx gummies without any concerns about product safety, quality, or effectiveness. The brand focuses on making CBD goods with top-tier ingredients and subjecting them to third-party verification. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at CBDfx gummies’ peculiarities and give you some points to consider to find your best option.

Explanation of CBD and CBD Gummies

The cannabis plant contains a variety of cannabinoids, but the main ones are THC and CBD. While THC is known for its psychoactive effects, CBD, or cannabidiol, is highly preferred because of its therapeutic potential. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. ECS is closely connected with the central and peripheral nervous systems and other systems that control important functions like sleep, digestion, and more. CBD binds to the ECS CB1 and CB2 receptors to pass along its benefits.

When it comes to CBD gummies, their effect onset time is usually longer than with other methods. It’s due to the time they need to be metabolized by the body before they kick in. Other influencing factors include body size, metabolic peculiarities, and tolerance. However, the effect is more prolonged than from vaping or ingesting tinctures and can last up to eight hours.

What Are CBDfx Gummies?

CBDfx gummies have been one of the first vegan cannabidiol-infused gummies to emerge on the market. They are made with all-natural and organic ingredients, without corn syrup or artificial sweeteners. These products include cannabidiol derived from high-quality hemp. According to the 2018 Farm Bill, this is a type of cannabis plant that contains less than 0.3% of THC. The producers’ product formulations are the following:

Mixed Berry;
Apple Cider Vinegar;
Turmeric&Spirulina;
Sleep Gummies;
Gummies with Mushrooms;
Lemon Dream;
Magic Melon;
Men’s and Women’s Multivitamins.

Although the effect of particular products may vary, the common benefits that CBD in their composition can deliver include mild pain relief, stress alleviation, relaxation, better sleep, etc.

How to Buy CBDfx Gummies?

The effectiveness of the product depends greatly on the quality of the CBD. However, cannabidiol, like other cannabinoids, isn’t regulated by the FDA. Hence, you must choose reputable manufacturers like CBDfx to receive quality goods and ensure a safe consumption experience. CBDfx gummies can be found in CBD shops across the USA and purchased from online stores where the brand is presented. You can read customer reviews and detailed descriptions on these platforms to make a better choice.

Factors to Consider Before Buying

Apart from choosing a source to buy a product, there are other things to consider to ensure you get the right product. Again, CBD quality is crucial, so if you purchase from any brand, including CBDfx, make sure that the cannabidiol in the products comes from organic farms that don’t use pesticides and is extracted using CO2. Then, check the availability of third-party testing reports and the COA certificate.

The next step is understanding what CBD you want to try. There are broad-spectrum, full-spectrum, and isolate products. Full-spectrum goods support the entourage effect because they contain all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, including the legal THC amount. They can lead to failing a drug test. The components are the same in the broad-spectrum products, but there’s no THC. Isolate CBD gummies are infused solely with cannabidiol.

Finally, think about your consumption purpose. Depending on it, you need to find a product with particular active ingredients and set the appropriate dosing.

How to Use Classic CBDfx Gummies

A single bottle of CBDfx gummies contains 60 pieces (a 30-day supply), and each one is injected with 25 mg of concentrated CBD. Generally, the recommended serving size is 50 mg. For novices, the advised dose is one gummy to understand how the body will respond. Every bottle has a label with ingredients and directions to follow.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a beginner or a frequent user, choosing gummies is always a good idea when you seek something new to try. It’s a convenient consumption method, and many choices are available on the market. However, be sure to visit a doctor for a consultation beforehand. It’s advised to stick to the label directions and be cautious with the amount of intake. One must refrain from using CBD edibles when pregnant or nursing and avoid operating machinery before or after the ingestion. CBD products should be kept inaccessible to children.

Diamond Jewelry Facts You Should Know

Diamonds are one of the most sought-after and timeless gemstones in the world. Their natural beauty, unmatched durability, and ability to captivate the beholder’s attention have made them the ultimate symbol of love and luxury. But did you know everyone should know several other amazing facts about diamond jewelry?

This article will explore seven such facts and help you understand why diamonds are the perfect choice when investing in jewelry. So, whether you’re a seasoned diamond buyer or a first-time shopper, here are the seven amazing facts about what to look for when shopping for diamond jewelry.

Overview of Diamonds

Before diving into the fantastic facts, understand with a brief overview of what diamonds are. Diamonds are one of Earth’s hardest naturally occurring materials, made up of pure carbon atoms that have been subjected to extreme heat and pressure for millions of years. Diamonds are known for their unique ability to refract and reflect light, which gives them their famous sparkle and fire.

Diamonds are graded according to the 4Cs: carat weight, cut, clarity, and color. When shopping for diamond jewelry, looking for these factors is essential to ensure you get the best value for your money.

Fact 1: Diamonds are Memorable

One of the most amazing facts about diamond jewelry is that they are incredibly memorable. When you receive a diamond as a gift, it symbolizes love, commitment, and appreciation. Diamonds hold a special place in our hearts and minds. Whenever you wear a diamond, you’re reminded of the special moment you received it. This is why diamond jewelry is often passed down from generation to generation, becoming an heirloom piece that holds sentimental value for the family.

Fact 2: Diamonds are Elegant & Beautiful

Diamond jewelry is elegant and beautiful, making it the perfect choice for special occasions. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a gala event or a fancy dinner, a diamond necklace, bracelet, or earrings can instantly elevate your look. Diamonds can uniquely catch and reflect the light, creating a stunning visual effect. They add a touch of glamour and sophistication to any outfit, making you look and feel like a million dollars.

Fact 3: Diamonds Are Unbreakable

Diamonds are one of the hardest materials on Earth, making them virtually unbreakable. This means that diamond jewelry can withstand everyday wear and tear. Unlike other gemstones, diamonds can last a lifetime without losing brilliance. Diamond engagement rings are popular because they represent the strength and endurance of the relationship.

Fact 4: Diamonds Offer Health Benefits

Believe it or not, diamonds offer health benefits as well. Diamonds are believed to have healing properties and can help alleviate several health problems. According to ancient Indian Ayurveda, diamonds can improve digestion, regulate hormones, and boost immunity. Diamond jewelry is also said to have a calming effect on the wearer, reducing stress and anxiety levels. Diamond jewelry is an excellent choice if you’re looking for beautiful jewelry that offers health benefits.

Fact 5: Diamonds offer Versatile Designs

Diamonds come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a classic solitaire ring or a modern diamond-studded bracelet, there’s a diamond design for every taste and occasion. You can mix and match diamond pieces to create your unique style or opt for a matching set for a coordinated look. For example, when shopping for diamond jewelry, look for designs that reflect your personality and style.

Fact 6: Diamonds Boost Your Confidence

Diamond jewelry can boost your confidence and self-esteem. You feel empowered and confident when you wear a diamond piece, knowing you’re wearing something special and valuable. Diamonds are a symbol of prestige and luxury, and wearing them can make you feel like you’re part of an elite group. Whether you’re wearing a diamond engagement ring or a pair of diamond earrings, you’ll feel more confident and self-assured, which can positively impact all areas of your life.

Diamonds are also associated with success and achievement, which can further boost your confidence. If you’re a business owner, wearing a diamond piece can make you feel more authoritative and professional, helping you make a lasting impression on clients and customers. If you’re attending an important event, a diamond piece can make you stand out from the crowd and make you feel like the star of the show. Diamonds are indeed a confidence booster, and investing in diamond jewelry is a great way to elevate your personal and professional life.

Fact 7: Diamonds are a Perfect Gifting Choice

In today’s world, finding the perfect gift for a loved one can be daunting. However, with diamond jewelry, you can never go wrong. Diamonds are a timeless and classic gift that will be treasured for generations. Diamond jewelry is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a gift for your partner, mother, sister, or friend.

Diamonds symbolize love, commitment, and devotion, making them an excellent choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and anniversary gifts. They are also famous for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, and other special occasions. The beauty and elegance of diamond jewelry make it a perfect gift for women of all ages and styles.

When you give someone diamond jewelry, you’re not just giving them a piece of jewelry but a valuable and meaningful token of your love and appreciation. Diamonds are precious gemstones representing the importance and uniqueness of your relationship with your loved one.

Bottom Line

Diamond jewelry is more than just a beautiful accessory. It offers a range of excellent benefits that make it a must-have in everyone’s jewelry collection. Diamond jewelry is genuinely remarkable, from its versatility and durability to its health benefits and confidence-boosting properties. Whether you’re purchasing diamond jewelry for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, it’s important to consider the 4Cs, choose a reputable jeweler, and consider your personal style and preferences. Now, you know what to look for when shopping for this beautiful asset.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s important to take the time to indulge in the finer things in life, and diamond jewelry is a perfect way to do that. It offers a sense of luxury and elegance that can make you feel special and empowered. Whether you’re wearing a diamond ring, necklace, or bracelet, you’ll feel like a star.

So, the next time you’re in the jewelry market, consider diamond jewelry and experience the change it brings to your life. Do not rush to pick anything and everything you see in the market. Instead, compare quality and price from different stores before you pick one that suits you.

Lola, Latto, Yung Miami

LOLA BROOKE UNVEILS OFFICIAL REMIX TO HIT SINGLE “DON’T PLAY WITH IT” FEATURING LATTO × YUNG MIAMI.

LISTEN HERE

WATCH THE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO HERE

Lola Brooke’s “Don’t Play With It” featuring Yung Miami and Latto. The latest music release from the Brooklyn-born rising rap phenom adds a glaring flare to the astronomically-rising native single featuring Billy B. The ‘Don’t Play With It‘ movement increases considerably with today’s fresh new offering coinciding with an official music video available to experience HERE via Lola Brooke‘s YouTube channel. Listen to “Don’t Play With It Remix” featuring Latto & Yung Miami HERE via Arista Records/Team Eighty Productions.

Lola taps Yung Miami and Latto for a new rendition of the lethal hit as each of the all-star artists creates an irresistible, synergetic energy that brings the essence of the New York-flavored track to new horizons. The Dizzy Banko-produced track has remained to be the soundtrack to the masses within the past year and has justly placed Lola Brooke in the conversation as one of the best new artists to watch on a global scale.

“Don’t Play With It,” has received an array of international acclaim since its release, including 77M+ worldwide streams to date, over 27M+ views for the official music video along with placements on flagship Hip Hop playlists like Spotify’s “RapCaviar,” Apple Music’s “Rap Life,” and Amazon Music’s “Rap Rotation.” On the global front, just as Lola concludes her first tour tonight in London, England with A Boogie wit da Hoodie, “D.P.W.I.” continues to receive stellar radio support from Europe including plays from UK BBC 1Xtra/Radio 1/Capital XTRA/Kiss Fresh/Ple Radio + Belgium Fun Radio, France Mouv Mix/Rinse France, Germany TIDE Radio, Ireland FM 104, Norway NRK P3 and more. Big Gator’s worldwide takeover has only just begun.

Earlier this month, Lola unleashed her highly praised song “So Disrespectful” along with an official music video touted by Okay Player as one of the ‘best videos to drop last week.’ Hypebeast highlighted the track stating, “The rising star has done it again” furthermore sharing, “there’s a special magic that rests in New York City when it comes to procuring talented rappers. Lola Brooke is one of the newest stars on the scene, and with her caliber of recent hits, she’s here to stay.” Vibe Magazine added “So Disrespectful carries similar gritty energy as “Don’t Play With It” and could strike fear even into the most macho men… it’s hard to determine whether her rap voice, flow, or diction stand out the most. Either way, the Brooklyn rapper turned in another impressive performance.” The track was highlighted by XXL as ‘the best in Hip Hop for the week,’ coined by Billboard as one of ten ‘must-hear new tracks of the week’via the publication’s R&B/Hip-Hop Fresh Picks of the Week column, and praised on Rolling Stone ‘all the songs you need to know this week‘ column. Listen to “So Disrespectful” HERE.

LISTEN TO “DON’T PLAY WITH IT REMIX” BY LOLA BROOKE

FEATURING LATTO AND YUNG MIAMI

–LINK–
WATCH THE “DON’T PLAY WITH IT REMIX” MUSIC VIDEO BY LOLA BROOKE

FEATURING LATTO AND YUNG MIAMI

–LINK–

LISTEN TO “SO DISRESPECTFUL” BY LOLA BROOKE

–LINK–

WATCH THE “SO DISRESPECTFUL” MUSIC VIDEO BY LOLA BROOKE

–LINK–

FOLLOW LOLA BROOKE

INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | TWITTER | TIK TOK

Photo: ShutterSpeed

CIARA – DA GIRLS

GRAMMY® Award-winning artist, singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Ciara reveals a brand new single and video for “Da Girls” today via Beauty Marks Entertainment. Listen to “Da Girls” HERE.

The anticipation for the track, produced by Derrick Milano, OG Parker, Romano, tenroc and Mike Woods, reached fever-pitch after several teases of the song stirred up online buzz and excitement. Serving as a mantra of affirmations, the track’s undeniable groove is an ode to da girls “that’s in love with they self / that done did it by they self / that’s i-n-d-e-p-e-n-d-e-n-t.”

Directed by VMA-nominated, Sara Lacombe, who worked in conjunction with Ciara and her long-time collaborator Jamaica Craft on creative direction. “I wanted an all-female team for this video to capture the energy and joy of when girls come together and have a good time. This is how I am with MY girls.” said Ciara.

About the song Ciara said, “Da Girls is a female empowerment anthem that celebrates the strength and resiliency of women all over the world. It speaks life into the endless possibilities of a woman on a mission.”

“Da Girls” is the follow-up to “Better Thangs” with Summer Walker and “JUMP” [feat. Coast Contra].

Throughout her unbelievable career thus far, Ciara has emerged as one of the most impactful, influential, and important artists of 21st century. Beyond streams in the billions, she has earned dozens of multiplatinum, platinum, and gold certifications worldwide and delivered timeless anthems such as “One Step, Two Step” [feat. Missy Elliott], “Goodies,” “Body Party,” “I Bet,” “Level Up,” and more. Beyond appearances across film and television, she stars in The Color Purple this year. Meanwhile, her entrepreneurial endeavors include everything from the launch of her skincare OAM (On A Mission), co-owner of Ten To One rum, and as well as The House of LR&C, the fashion house she launched with her husband Russell Wilson in 2020. Not to mention, she sits on the board of the Why Not You Foundation and also co-authored the New York Times Bestselling children’s picture book Why Not You? However, she’s about to kick off her biggest and boldest chapter yet now with new music in 2023.

Follow Ciara on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube

BIA – I’M THAT BITCH

BIA releases the defiant new single “I’M THAT BITCH” produced by hip-hop icon Timbaland, out today via Epic Records. Listen HERE. In-your-face and infectious, the high-energy anthem is sure to be on the setlist of BIA’s show at Drais Nightclub in Las Vegas, NV tonight. The track is accompanied by an eye-popping video directed Mike Ho. It’s the first music video evr show in IMAX as a format. Watch it HERE.

“As soon as you see me, I’m up and I’m gone, I’m really living this sh*t in my songs,” BIA raps over Timbaland’s ferocious beats, warped effects and nimble melodies. With its take-no-prisoners attitude and swagger-filled wordplay, “I’M THAT BITCH” certainly lives up to its title. That fierce energy is perfectly captured by the video.

The visual finds BIA sporting head-to-toe silver as she gets down with her mask-wearing back-up dancers on a futuristic set. It’s not only a tribute to one of the genre’s trailblazers but also a reminder that BIA has studied the greats and is well on track to becoming one in her own right. Watch it HERE.

The crowd-pleaser arrives just weeks after BIA dropped her addictive ode to yesteryear “SIXTEEN.” LISTEN HERE

Prior to that, she released “Solitude,” a collaboration with Snakehips and Lucky Daye, and “LONDON” featuring J. Cole. Those tracks are certain to be highlights when BIA hits the stage at Drais nightclub in Las Vegas tonight and tomorrow, with another couple of shows scheduled for April 14 and 15. Get tickets HERE.

Since day one, BIA has commanded respect with her effortless flow and ear for hooks. First discovered by Fam-Lay, she was shepherded to greatness by industry heavyweights like Pharrell. Since then, she has delivered one addictive track after another, including her double platinum single “Whole Lotta Money,” which got a remix featuring Nicki Minaj. Now, with “I’M THAT BITCH,” BIA levels up yet again, taking her spot at the forefront of modern hip-hop.

Follow BIA:

Twitter | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube

Photo credit: Shaun-Andru

Saucy Santana ☆ 1-800-Bad-Bxtch

Saucy Santana shares his latest single, “1-800-Bad-Bxtch,” out now via RCA Records.

The playful single follows a run of hits from Santana, including last year’s summer anthem “Booty” featuring Latto, “I’m Too Much,” and “Bop Bop.” Opening with a phone call from Santana, the catchy single has all the rapper’s quintessential elements – an undeniable hook, clever lyricism, and twerk-worthy production.

Between supporting tours for Latto and Lizzo, collaborating with Madonna on a remix of “Material Girl,” and a series of breakout performances for the MTV VMAs Pre-Show, BET Awards Pre-Show, and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, 2022 belonged to Saucy Santana. He graced the covers of Teen Vogue, PAPER, and V Magazine, in addition to being selected as XXL 2022 Freshman Class member, as well as earning spots on Forbes’ 30 Under 30, the Out 100 list, and Ebony’s Power 100 list.

This year sees Santana continuing his takeover in full force, with new music to come and festival performances at Something In The Water Festival in Virginia Beach, Roots Picnic in Philadelphia, Broccoli City Festival in DC, and more.

Follow Saucy Santana

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

smartURL:

https://saucysantana.lnk.to/1800

Photo: Sam Hamer

WAHLBERG – VERY SCARY PEOPLE

DONNIE WAHLBERG STARS IN A CHILLING NEW SEASON
OF VERY SCARY PEOPLE ON INVESTIGATION DISCOVERY

–New Episodes Premiere Sunday, April 16 at 9/8c on ID–

VERY SCARY PEOPLE, hosted and executive produced by Donnie Wahlberg, returns for a new season next month on its new home Investigation Discovery, the leading true crime network. Through in-depth interviews and incredible archival footage, each two-hour episode of VERY SCARY PEOPLE will offer unprecedented and comprehensive insight into not only the twisted crimes of these individuals, but a glimpse into their background, possible motives, psyche and the investigations that subsequently brought them all to justice. Featuring local authorities and journalists who investigated and covered the cases, as well as interviews with those close to both the victims and the killers, each episode of VERY SCARY PEOPLE will offer an expansive look into some of society’s most evil minds. New episodes of VERY SCARY PEOPLE will premiere Sunday, April 16 at 9/8c on ID and will be available to stream the same day on discovery+. All previous seasons of VERY SCARY PEOPLE are available to stream now on discovery+.

“I could not be more excited for a new season of VERY SCARY PEOPLE to air on Investigation Discovery,” said Wahlberg. “With each episode, we bring new insights into the lives of terrifying criminals to create awareness and hope this knowledge helps prevent similar crimes from happening in the future.”

“With an impressive background of work in the true crime space, Donnie Wahlberg has become one of the most trusted faces for fans of the genre,” said Jason Sarlanis, President of Turner Networks, ID and HLN, linear and streaming. “And as the leader in true crime television, we at ID are delighted to become the new home of ‘Very Scary People’ and welcome Donnie to our family of first-rate storytellers known to be the most credible, passionate and knowledgeable in the business.”

The season premiere of “The Trailside Killer” on Sunday, April 16 at 9/8c on ID focuses on serial killer David Carpenter. From 1979 to 1981, Carpenter terrorized Northern California’s typically tranquil hiking trails, shocking the quiet community surrounding them with his cold-blooded violence and led local authorities on a twisted and challenging investigation to bring him to justice. The new season of VERY SCARY PEOPLE also digs into some of the most diabolical individuals of the past few decades, including: Larry Hall, the American murderer and rapist whose true nature was exposed by drug smuggler turned F.B.I. informant James Keene; the Times Square Killer, Richard Cottingham; The Happy Face Killer, Keith Jesperson; John Robinson, the internet’s first serial killer who dubbed himself the “Slavemaster;” and Judy Buenoano, a deadly Black Widow lurking behind the facade of nurse, wife and mother.

Follow ID social on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for exclusive videos, articles and conversations around the series. Engage on social using #VeryScaryPeople.

VERY SCARY PEOPLE is produced for ID by HLN.

About INVESTIGATION DISCOVERY (ID)

Investigation Discovery (ID) is the leading crime network on television, delivering the highest-quality programming to approximately 80 million U.S. households. Viewers can enjoy their favorite shows anytime, anywhere on discovery+, the definitive non-fiction, real-life subscription streaming service. ID’s true-crime programming is also available via the network’s aggregated TV Everywhere offering, IDGO, where fans can access thousands of episodes from the Discovery family of networks. For exclusive web content and bonus material, fans can follow ID on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook or check out the network’s true crime blog, CrimeFeed. Investigation Discovery is owned by Warner Bros. Discovery, a leading global media and entertainment company available in more than 220 countries and territories and 50 languages whose portfolio also includes Discovery Channel, discovery+, CNN, DC, Eurosport, HBO, HBO Max, Food Network, OWN, Investigation Discovery, TLC, Magnolia Network, TNT, TBS, truTV, Travel Channel, MotorTrend, Animal Planet, Science Channel, Warner Bros. Pictures, New Line Cinema, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Turner Classic Movies and others.

The WAAV

The WAAV is a massive art installation created by Fort Lauderdale-based Architect & Artist Scot DiStefano for a local affordable housing development named Poinciana Crossing. The community was developed in partnership by the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Lauderdale and Miami-based Atlantic Pacific Companies.

After receiving the word ‘wave’ as the concept for this commission, DiStefano approached it with his personal philosophy of Organtech Architecture™, a style that is based on the Organic and high-tech aspects of modern architecture. He shares that “Organtech is an architecture that takes only what is necessary, still touches the soul, and gives whenever possible.”

Teenage Entrepreneur to Millionaire Tech Mogul

Why Dropping Out of College was the Best Decision of My Life

By James Barlow

The decision to leave college before completing my degree may seem unconventional to some, but for me, it was the most sensible choice for my career path and personal growth. Despite enjoying the college experience, I felt a sense of restlessness, as if I was merely biding my time. I was eager to take on real-world challenges and pursue my passion for entrepreneurship. The idea of building something from scratch and being in control of my destiny was exhilarating, and I knew I couldn’t wait until I graduated to start my own business. By leaving college early, I was able to get a head start on my career and focus all my energy and resources on developing my entrepreneurial skills. It was a bold move, but in hindsight, it was the best decision I ever made.

I always knew that I wanted to be an entrepreneur. As a child, I was always looking for opportunities to make money. At the age of 16, I took the leap and started my first business, and the feeling of being my own boss was invigorating. The experience was so rewarding that I continued to look for new business opportunities wherever I could. By the time I graduated and went to college, I had already achieved a level of success that many entrepreneurs never reach.

So, I made the decision to leave college early and pursue my entrepreneurial dreams. At the time, it was a difficult choice. I was giving up a lot of things, including the security of a college degree but I knew there was no other way.

One of the biggest benefits of leaving college early was that I was able to focus all of my energy on my business. I didn’t have to worry about juggling classes, homework, and studying. Instead, I could devote all my time and energy to building my company. And that’s exactly what I did.

Over the years, I have founded numerous successful tech companies, with expertise in AWS, Fintech, Healthcare, E-commerce, and more. By the time I was 20 years old, I was already generating over $1m in revenue from eBay sales monthly. None of this would have been possible if I had stayed in college.

It’s easy to look at successful individuals and assume that they have had a smooth journey to the top. However, the reality is quite different. Early success does not mean that there are no struggles or issues to face along your path to career success.

For me, my early success was from hard work diligently striving towards my goals, and I saw the fruits of my labor grow. However, along the way, I faced personal difficulties that needed to be overcome.

Like many young entrepreneurs who achieve financial success early in their careers, I too faced struggles with focusing too much on making money from my new ventures rather than the product itself during those initial years. Despite my accomplishments, I came to realize that success is not just about making money, it’s about creating a product or service that adds value to people’s lives. Realizing this was my issue took a great deal of reflection and the advice of mentors to emerge from those difficult times after such early success. Although the journey was trying, I refused to give up and eventually found a solution that worked for me.

My journey to success has had its fair share of struggles and difficulties, but those experiences played a significant role in shaping my character and outlook on life. My early success gave me the confidence and motivation to persevere through tough times, while my struggle with focusing on money over product made me more mindful and conscious of the value I was providing to my customers. I realized that my struggles were not unique, and many other entrepreneurs faced similar challenges. These experiences taught me the importance of creating value for customers, being mindful of business practices, and never losing sight of the purpose behind the product or service.

About James Barlow

James Barlow is the founder of Triumph Technology Solutions LLC; a leading AWS cloud native services provider. With over a decade of experience in the industry, he is an accomplished Tech Entrepreneur, expert, and business leader with a deep understanding of the development of IT Services and Software Businesses with domain expertise in AWS, Fintech, Healthcare, E-Commerce, and more. James has started numerous tech companies that have focused on everything from Business Web Development to e-commerce. In the early 2000’s James founded an eBay-based business and was one of the first eBay “power sellers.” At only 20 years old, James was generating over $1m revenue from eBay sales monthly.

James Studied Business with a minor in economics from Northern Illinois University. He left college early in order to pursue his entrepreneurial passions and to build his eBay-based computer hardware sales business. He has also earned certification as an AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner and Solutions Architect, reflecting his commitment to staying current with emerging technologies.

Outside of work, James is a passionate volunteer who is deeply committed to several causes, including civil rights and social action, economic empowerment, education, disaster and humanitarian relief, politics, and science and technology.

Global Business Hit Hard by Rising Energy Costs

Zurich, Switzerland: Research shows that businesses around the world remain concerned about the impacts of energy security and prices, which could be a catalyst for a range of environmental, social, and economic ripple effects. According to the ABB Energy Insights survey 1 of 2,300 leaders from small and large businesses across a range of sectors, 92 percent of respondents feel that the continuing instability of energy is threatening their profitability and competitiveness. Energy costs and insecurity are having a significant impact on the workforce with decreased investment in employees. Business leaders are also concerned about potential impacts on them meeting their sustainability targets.

Restricting business investment and growth

Rising energy costs and security are forcing business leaders to rethink how they operate and where they invest in their businesses, to stay competitive, let alone grow. The key impacts on businesses due to rising energy costs in the last year include lower profit margins (34 percent) and cuts to spending in some areas (34 percent), leading to a shift away from investment in R&D and other business growth initiatives. Over a third (38 percent) have or plan to reduce technology investment, while a third (33 percent) expect to cut spending on infrastructure and 31 percent foresee a decline in marketing spend.

Impact on employees

Businesses say they have reduced investment in their workforce in the last year because of increased energy costs and the need to implement mitigation measures and expect this to continue over the next three to five years. Three of the top five business areas highlighted for budget reductions are related to the workforce: 42 percent will spend less on recruitment; 38 percent will decrease spending on salaries, overtime and bonuses; and 37 percent will reduce investment in staff training and development.

Delaying decarbonization

Respondents further cite concerns that energy pricing and insecurity could delay progress on climate change, with carbon reduction commitments considered less of a priority than reducing energy costs. Over half (58 percent) of business leaders surveyed said the cost of energy could delay achieving their sustainability and carbon reduction targets by anywhere from one to five years. While reducing energy costs is the top priority for 61 percent of companies, only 40 percent are currently prioritizing reducing carbon emissions.

Energy security

83 percent of business leaders express concern about the security of their business’s energy supply, and many are taking action to address energy insecurity and fluctuating energy prices. Over a third (36 percent) are worried about further rises in energy costs, 31 percent are concerned by power cuts and blackouts, and a quarter by energy rationing. In response, 34 percent have already put in place energy efficiency measures and 40 percent are looking to install on-site renewable energy generation to become less dependent on the grid.

Morten Wierod, President, ABB Electrification, said:

Businesses say they need to insulate themselves from energy prices and insecurity and are re-evaluating current and future spending plans. Taking action to mitigate this is a clear priority, but this doesn’t have to be a catalyst for potential workforce or environmental impacts. Investing in smart and sustainable on-site renewables and energy efficiency technology means businesses can simultaneously cut costs and reduce their emissions. With the right approach, it is possible for industry to achieve cost savings without sacrificing competitiveness, workforces or the journey to decarbonization.

Taking action

While businesses want to take concrete actions to address energy challenges, a third are being put off by the perceived cost of implementing energy efficiency measures, and almost half (49 percent) feel they don’t have the know-how or resources to proceed.

Much of the technology that can help businesses – large or small – to optimize their energy management and reduce costs, is already widely available and at a reasonable cost. For example, at a telecoms HQ in Hanoi, smart building technology reduced energy costs by 20 percent, while retrofitting hardware and using energy management solutions at an ABB factory in Italy has led to 30 percent energy savings.

To find out more about how ABB and our customers are collaborating to mitigate energy challenges, visit Sustainability in Electrification. Businesses can also join the ABB – Energy Efficiency Movement–a global forum of over 300 organizations sharing ideas and solutions that can help industry lower costs, mitigate energy challenges and accelerate climate action.