Posts tagged with "industry"

THE 36th ANNUAL FNAAs via Olivia Myrtue by 360 Magazine

DUA LIPA AND BILLY WALSH

DUA LIPA AND BILLY WALSH TO RECEIVE INAUGURAL COLLECTION OF THE YEAR AWARD AT THE 36th ANNUAL FNAAs

The pop superstar and the longtime Puma collaborator, designer and songwriter are being honored for their Puma x Dua Lipa Flutur Drop 2 collection.

Christian Louboutin to Receive Prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, Presented by Idris Elba

WHAT:  Footwear News will present the winners of the 36th annual Footwear News

Achievement Awards (FNAAs), the footwear industry’s highest honor. For 36 years, the FNAAs— often called the Shoe Oscars — have celebrated the hit makers, style stars, best brand stories, ardent philanthropists, emerging talents, and industry veterans in footwear.

WHO:The 2022 FNAA winners are: 

Lifetime Achievement Award: Christian Louboutin   

·                     Collection of the Year:  Puma x Dua Lipa Flutur Drop 2

·                     Retailer of the Year: Kith   

·                     Designer of the Year: Amina Muaddi    

·                     Shoe of the Year: Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 by Virgil Abloh   

·                     Person of the Year: Dr. D’Wayne Edwards    

·                     Brand of the Year: Jordan Brand   

·                     Collaboration of the Year: Manolo Blahnik for Birkenstock 

·                     Emerging Talent Award: Jessica Rich    

·                     Company of the Year: Skechers USA Inc. 

·                     Hall of Fame: Scott Meden   

·                     Launch of the Year: Lululemon   

·                     Hall of Fame: Diane Sullivan    

·                     Brand of the Year: Merrell

·                     Sustainability Leadership Award: Puma    

·                     Social Impact Award: Brandice Daniel 

WHEN:                 Wednesday, November 30, 2022

                                4:30 PM               Media Check-In

                                5:30 – 7:00 PM  Red Carpet Arrivals & Cocktails

                                7:00 – 9:00 PM  Dinner & Awards                             

WHERE: Cipriani South Street

                    10 South Street

SOCIAL MEDIA:    #FNAA2022     @footwearnews

*More announcements on the event and talent forthcoming.*

The event is supported by presenting sponsor Nordstrom.

About Footwear News  

Footwear News (FN) is the ultimate destination for industry insiders and shoe lovers alike. From power players to style stars, FN draws on more than seventy years of history to offer a feet-first look at what’s new and what’s next in shoes. Breaking the latest stories, offering expert analysis and on-trend seasonal coverage, FN is connecting readers to the topics that matter most. Led by an informed team of journalists, the site is your first stop for shoe news globally. With an eye for what’s next, the newsroom sets the tone feet first.  

JIMMY FALLON & DOLLY PARTON “ALMOST TOO EARLY FOR CHRISTMAS” via Bryan Kehn by 360 Magazine

ALMOST TOO EARLY FOR CHRISTMAS

JIMMY FALLON & DOLLY PARTON “ALMOST TOO EARLY FOR CHRISTMAS” IS OUT NOW

LISTEN HERE.

About Republic Records

A division of Universal Music Group, the world’s leading music company, Republic Records has been recognized by Billboard as the industry’s #1 label over the last 10 years. It is home to an all-star roster of multi-platinum, award-winning legends and superstar artists such as Ariana Grande, Billy Porter, Bo Burnham, Ciara, Clairo, Coi Leray, Conan Gray, Daddy Yankee, Drake, Eddie Vedder, G Herbo, Glass Animals, Florence + the Machine, Greta Van Fleet, Hailee Steinfeld, Jack Johnson, James Blake, James Bay, Jessie J, Jimmy Fallon, John Legend, John Mellencamp, Jonas Brothers, Julia Michaels, Kid Cudi, Kim Petras, Lil Wayne, Lorde, Metro Boomin, NAV, Nicki Minaj, Of Monsters and Men, Pearl Jam, Post Malone, Seth MacFarlane, Stevie Wonder, Swedish House Mafia, Taylor Swift, The Weeknd, Twice, TXT, and more. Founded by brothers and chief executives Monte and Avery Lipman, it is also comprised of innovative business ventures, including American Recordings, Boominati Worldwide, Brushfire, Casablanca Records, Cash Money, Federal Films, HYBE, Imperial, JYP, Lava Records, Mercury Records, Republic Records: Kids & Family, Republic Nashville, Universal Arabic Music, Uptown Records, Victor Victor, Wicked Money Family, XO, Young Money, among others.

Tatev Oganyan by Jonathan Stinson via 360 Magazine

Changing the Game in Cannabis

Q&A With Tatev Oganyan of the Oganyan Agency: Changing the Game in Cannabis

The 360 Magazine had the honor of interviewing a woman who is changing the game in the cannabis space as well as luxury consumer goods as one of the top attorneys in California. She is a force to be reckoned with due to her many accolades and talents. Mrs. Oganyan speaks on gender equality, balancing her professional and personal life, her favorite hobbies including her successful “Happy High Hour” events in Orange County, the future of the cannabis industry, and which A-list celebrities are investing in cannabis companies. Read the informative interview below and keep up with Tatev on INSTAGRAM and her website TheOganyanAgency.com

As a powerful female attorney in the cannabis space, do you find being a woman has made it harder for your success? We read all the time about actresses not being paid the same as their male co-stars. Would you say the cannabis industry is similar or not at all? 

I think being a woman has its challenges in most industries including acting and cannabis, especially as you move up the corporate ladder. I have seen my fair share of gender inequality, which could be detrimental to cannabis companies. Without a doubt, there are a lot more hurdles for women to overcome but we are stronger because of it in an industry that requires thick skin. You must know your worth and advocate for yourself, negotiate your pay and work hard to get what you want because it will not be handed to you.

How do you balance your professional life and your personal life? 360 read that you work with your husband, what are your tips on leaving work stress at the office? 

My husband is of counsel at The Oganyan Agency for corporate and commercial real estate matters so it’s not uncommon to talk business while we brush our teeth.

We just got back from our honeymoon in Croatia, which we had to postpone for eight months due to work deadlines. We powered through and our clients were very grateful. Here are some tips that work for us

  • Get organized and coordinate scheduling for work and personal time on a regular basis.
  • Respect professional boundaries and personal space at home and in the office, which is important for privacy and comfort.
  • Find ways to instill passion in each project and have fun. Your clients will appreciate it.
  • Make time for nature to unplug and stay active.
  • Be present.

Our readers would love to know some of your favorite hobbies. 

My creative outlet is drawing, painting, and curating unique experiences through experiential marketing. This week, we hosted a Happy High Hour, which was an exclusive taste testing event for industry insiders and influencers to meet Trendi, an indoor premium California flower brand that launched this summer.

Where do you see the Cannabis Industry within the next year? 

Without federal legalization, sound regulation, and tax breaks, the market will continue to be volatile as the illicit market thrives. Large operators will continue to buyout challenged operators. Mergers and acquisitions will accelerate as larger companies expand their footprint to boost revenue. The stigma will reduce as education and research improves and more states legalize cannabis. A lot more Americans will be open to using cannabis regularly for medicinal and recreational purposes.

Do you believe cannabis will be legalized on a federal level? If so, when do you see that happening? 

I believe cannabis will be legalized but no time soon, unfortunately. I am optimistic about the prospects of full federal legalization in the long run because I believe it has broad popular support from the American people.

Just look at how long progress takes at the federal level with the SAFE Banking Act which was first introduced in 2013. It would be a huge boom to the legitimacy of the cannabis industry if cannabis companies could bank like every other legitimate business.

It’s 2022 and despite the Act’s continued bipartisan support, we see it held up for one reason or another by both Democrats and Republicans. Overall, we believe the momentum is there for the bill to eventually pass, but it is not a priority for this legislative season.

Tell us who inspires you and did they help influence you to pursue your career in the cannabis space? 

My cannabis backstory happened largely by chance. I applied for a job on Indeed fall of 2016 and the industry was not disclosed to me until the final interview. I requested time to consider the offer since I was unsure if cannabis was legal at the time. My husband (then boyfriend) helped me research California laws on cannabis and encouraged me to pursue a legal career in cannabis. He also believed in my entrepreneurial spirit since law school and motivated me to start my own business in 2020. Today, we tag team our largest projects together.

What are 3 tips or professional advice you have for our readers who are looking to open a dispensary and have never been in the cannabis industry before? 

  • Only the cream of the crop makes it. Don’t expect to get rich overnight. The heavy tax burdens (up to 40%), ever-changing regulations, and competing illicit markets make it challenging to operate a profitable dispensary.
  • Know your market. Integrate yourself into the cannabis culture for long-term industry success.
  • The industry is not for the faint-hearted. Learn to eat bad news for breakfast because you must be relentless to survive when navigating unseen waters.

Since 360 is a lifestyle magazine and also focuses on celebrities, do you see a shift in celebrities being open publicly about using cannabis recreationally? 

We are seeing more celebrities openly discuss cannabis or CBD consumption especially celebrities who want to get into the cannabis industry. Fans expect authentic ventures and collabs. Cannabis consumers are very quick to reject cash grabs.

In order to succeed, celebrities must connect with the culture and lifestyle by openly sharing their story and relationship with weed. Otherwise, their involvement will seem merely opportunistic.

Do you think celebrities will start investing in cannabis companies? 

Cannabis is an emerging industry and a hot commodity with strong ties to Hollywood, hip-hop, and reggae cultures. In recent years, more celebrities are investing in cannabis-connected businesses. Many like Mike Tyson, Bella Thorne and Seth Rogen are already creating their own cannabis brands. Brands that exemplify celebrity personas capitalize on an existing fan base, which can help drive retail sales. It’s exciting to see how celebrity-backed products attract new cannabis-curious consumers and audiences.

Lastly, if you could give advice and inspiration to your younger self starting off in law school, what would you say? 

I would tell my younger self to enjoy the ride as much as the destination. Most importantly, don’t forget to have fun because the work will always be there. Trust your instincts and stop doubting yourself. Use your fear as fuel to learn. Being scared and uncomfortable is a sign of personal growth.

music by 360 Magazine via 360 Magazine

WARNER MUSIC x THE LIONZ COLLECTIVE

WARNER MUSIC LATINA JOINS FORCES WITH THE LIONZ COLLECTIVE TO BRING THE EXPLOSIVE TALENT OF
BARRANQUILLA TO THE WORLD

There is no doubt that Colombia has played an important role in Latin music’s historical and global expansion in the 21st century. While in recent years the focus has been on the talent emerging from Medellin, the hometown of global superstars like J Balvin, Maluma, and Karol G, attention is now shifting to Barranquilla, Colombia’s golden gate, which has seen a boom with his new move. In an exciting new development for Latin music, today, Warner Music Latina and Lionz, LLC (as part of The Lionz Collective, a collective that combines music, artist development, and creativity), announced their joint initiative to turn Latin the emerging stars of Barranquilla into artists known to all.

The innovative project is being led by Warner Music Latina and directed by experienced LIONZ songwriter, producer and executive Humberto “Humby” Viana, veteran Latin and American record industry creative and executive Brian Harrison Alvarez and Darío José. “DJ Dari” Insignares, one of the creative minds behind the Barranquilla sound.

“We are excited about this new partnership with The Lionz Collective that will help develop and export the Barranquilla sound and talent throughout the Latin American region and beyond.” – Hector Ruben Rivera, SVP/Head of A&R at Warner Music Latina.

“It is proven that Colombia is a country full of talent and an exporter of music to the whole world. This alliance with Lionz means a lot to us and to be the pioneers in officially opening an artistic development cluster on the Atlantic coast.” – Maria Montejo, General Marketing Manager of Warner Music Colombia.

“If there’s one thing I know after more than 20 years in music at the highest levels, it’s that when you hear something undeniable that advances art instead of chasing it, you go all out and fast. That’s how movements become tides and that’s how legends are born.” – Brian Harrison Alvarez, Founder, LIONZ.

“He carried Barranquilla in his blood. Very happy for the city and the globalization of its sound. For those who paved the way, thank you. Now is our time.” – Humberto “Humby” Viana, Founder, LIONZ.

The Lionz Collective brings together artists, creatives and tastemakers from the US and Latin America with a mission to innovate pop culture. The Lionz Collective is made up of a group of companies that includes LIONZ, a full-service record label; THE ROAR OF THE LION, music publisher and manager; and THE LIONZ DEN, an artist management, production and art incubator company.

With a diversified roster of eight unique artists starting in the streets of Barranquilla (Lou, Dante Damage, Piri Blackboy) and embracing a fresh and innovative take on pop (Jean Pi, Diana K), seasoned artists ready for international exposure (VAECH ), to gaining the credibility needed for an acquisition (MC Killer and the Caribbean Cartel) and having a rising superstar of their own (Darho), Lionz and Warner have made their best bet yet: transform Barranquilla art into the musical legends of tomorrow.

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TV2 illustration by Rita Azar for 360 Magazine

Behind the Wheel: Truck Week

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All next week, NewsNation will be hitting the road with an all-new series of stories from the eyes of the American Trucker for “Behind the Wheel: Truck Week.” NewsNation will take an in-depth look at the industry that is driving America—moving more than 72% of the nation’s goods. These are the real stories about the dedicated people who are helping to drive the American economy by delivering goods and creating new job opportunities. Viewers will get a behind-the-scenes look at what life is really like on the road for a trucker and get a preview of the newest technology that will steer trucking into the future.

NewsNation is proud to take a moment and send a ‘trucker salute’ to the men and women who keep our country moving, even through challenging times.  Available to discuss what they have discovered on the scene throughout America is NewsNation’s  Senior National Correspondent Brian Entin and NewsNation’s Dallas Bureau Correspondent Markie Martin.

On Wednesday, April 20, NewsNation will be releasing their latest poll with Decision Desk HQ, topics will include Covid, Supply Chain and Truckers. Additional highlights from the week’s programming are below. 

Monday, April 18th: The Importance of the Trucker to the American Economy

NewsNation’s Kelsey Kernstine takes viewers behind the scenes to see the challenges Americans face through the eyes of the trucker. As consumer demand for fast delivery grows, we ask truckers how job shortages, inflation, and gas prices are impacting the country.

Tuesday, April 19th: Truckers Wanted: Job Crisis

Truck drivers are the backbone of American transportation infrastructure, but the industry faces a growing job crisis. NewsNation’s Nancy Loo looks to uncover why it’s hard to recruit and explores topics like having more women and teens behind the wheel.   

Wednesday, April 20th: Life on the Road

NewsNation’s Brian Entin goes on the road from North Carolina to Pennsylvania to understand the life of a truck driver. He speaks with truckers about challenges on the road—from lack of parking to fatigue and loneliness—sharing stories from those who work behind the wheel.

Thursday, April 21st: Truckers Get Rich

Trucking can provide a comfortable living after only a few short years on the road. NewsNation’s Nancy Loo reports on the financial aspects of this lucrative industry.

Friday, April 22nd: The Future of Trucking

As technology advances, and self-driving vehicles become more of a reality, NewsNation’s Markie Martin reports on what trucking may look like in the future. Reporting from a 70 mile ride in a driverless tractor, he looks to uncover how the industry can embrace technology to compete with companies like Tesla.For more information on Truck Week, click HERE.

Pirelli BMW iX via Pirelli Tires for use by 360 Magazine

Pirelli  × BMW iX

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Pirelli will supply P Zero Elect tires as original equipment to the new BMW iX—a 100% electric SUV from the renowned German car manufacturer—for the xDrive50 version and the sportier M60. P Zero Elect tires are available for the BMW iX xDrive50 version in 255/50R21 109Y XL and 275/40R22 107Y XL sizes, with the latter size also available for the sportier M60 version of the German SUV. All of these tires are marked with a star on the side to indicate that they have been specially developed for BMW as part of Pirelli’s ‘perfect fit’ philosophy, which also includes a 22-inch BMW iX tire with more grip than the other two: made for maximum performance. This tire has an “I” on the side, in addition to the star marking. Pirelli’s presence as original equipment for the latest generation of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles is growing thanks to these latest homologations, featuring tires equipped with the Italian firm’s Elect technology package. Elect tires, such as the P Zero developed for the German all-electric flagship, distinguish themselves thanks to their supreme driving comfort with contained road noise as well as immediate grip, a long-range and safety-focused design. The intense development dedicated by Pirelli to the BMW iX underlines the Italian firm’s commitment to design specific tires for electrified cars, BEVs or plug-in hybrids. These products are created from the beginning to enhance the individual characteristics of electric cars, as denoted by the ‘Elect’ marking on the sidewall of the tire itself. 

Tires for Superior Battery Range 

The Pirelli P Zero Elect tires developed for the BMW iX focus on low rolling resistance, to allow the car to travel for more miles after a charge. The specific profile of the tire also influences the mileage, thanks to its superior aerodynamics compared to the standard P Zero. The external profile has been modified to ensure that the tire protrudes less, reducing aerodynamic turbulence while improving overall efficiency, without sacrificing adequate rim protection. The embedded lettering on the side of the tire is just as distinctive, hollowed into the sidewall rather than standing out in relief. 

Silence and Comfort 

Particular attention is paid to comfort for BMW iX drivers, with the dedicated Pirelli P Zero Elect tires also equipped with PNCS (Pirelli Noise Cancelling System) technology, which reduces road noise. PNCS technology consists of a specific sound-absorbing material placed inside the tire, which dampens the acoustic vibrations that would otherwise be transmitted into the car, with a consequent reduction in road noise. The tire structure has also been optimized to cope with the considerable weight of this 100% electric zero-emission vehicle, designed to offering optimal levels of driving comfort in all road traffic conditions.

 

Art by Mina Tocalini of 360 Magazine for use by 360 Magazine

Fabtech Conference 2021

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By: Skyler Johnson

Coronavirus affected every single aspect of society, including factory labor. The Fabtech 2021 conference showcased the top metal forming brands in Taiwan, discussing the unique ways they were able to adapt to Covid-19. 

Mechalogix was the first company that spoke. They designed a system designed to lower labor costs through computers that actually monitor the performance of the machines and send back statistics to the operator, allowing the user to gain statistics from the strength of a saw blade to overall performance. If something needs to be replaced, the user will know, and a mechanic can be sent to the machine. But, no one needs to be watching the machines, which allows for a decrease in labor costs.

SEYI has developed a computer program that allows for users to interface with a lot of different aspects of the press, figuring out the analysis of the machine, including operation analysis and downtime analysis. Like with Mechalogix, the technology is able to send messages immediately to maintenance personnel.

Tailift has implemented a system to help in decreasing the time between taking orders and delivering products by using different web services that cut out the middleman between taking orders and delivering products, and have secured high speed internet and a strong firewall to do so. The company has also invested in technology including utilizing robot arms which help to increase efficiency and decrease maintenance costs

Da Jie is utilizing automated technology in order to avoid human cluster as a result of the pandemic, thus leading to more efficiency in production and 50% of the material being saved. SImilar to Tailift, the company uses robotic arms and other devices in order to save on cost. 

Ultimately, metal forming companies have implemented a lot of changes in order to deal with the pandemic, making their systems smarter and more efficient in the process. The pandemic has hurt everyone, but these factories were able to adapt.

Carl Lowres Benz via National Institute for the National Inventor Hall of Fame use by 360 Magazine

National Inventors Hall of Fame 2022

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Several innovation pioneers whose inventions range from cataract surgery to the modern automobile will be honored as part of the latest class of National Inventors Hall of Fame® (NIHF) Inductees.

In partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), NIHF will honor these Inductees on May 5, 2022, at one of the innovation industry’s most highly anticipated events—“The Greatest Celebration of American Innovation®.”

“As a nation, we innovate and we grow. Advancing innovation and entrepreneurship is critical to the future of our country, and the National Inventors Hall of Fame Inductees inspire a culture of invention,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “The Department of Commerce congratulates, and celebrates, NIHF’s 2022 class of Inductees.”

The Class of 2022

  • Marian Croak: VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) Technology

Engineer Marian Croak has worked on advancing Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technologies, converting voice data into digital signals that can be easily transmitted over the internet. Her work has allowed VoIP to become a practical reality by enabling reliability and high quality. Today, VoIP technology is vital for remote work and conferencing, as well as personal communications.

Engineer and entrepreneur Lonnie Johnson is the inventor of the Super Soaker®, which became a best-selling toy generating well over $1 billion in sales over its lifetime. Johnson’s longtime research focuses on energy technology, and his work today includes advances in rechargeable battery technology and thermodynamic technology to convert thermal energy to electrical energy.

  • Katalin Karikó and Dr. Drew Weissman: Modified mRNA Technology Used in COVID-19 Vaccines

Fundamental research by biochemist Katalin Karikó and immunologist Drew Weissman laid a critical piece of the foundation for the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines developed by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna. The mRNA vaccines have been crucial in the fight against the COVID-19 respiratory disease caused by SARS-CoV 2, a new coronavirus discovered in 2019. Nearly 1 billion mRNA vaccine doses have been administered worldwide since December 2020.

Ophthalmologist Patricia Bath invented a new device and technique to remove cataracts known as laserphaco. Different than phacoemulsification that uses ultrasound, it could perform all steps of cataract removal, including making the surgical incision, destroying the lens and vacuuming out the fractured pieces.

German engineer Carl Benz was the first to design a car around the internal combustion engine rather than adding an engine to an existing wagon or carriage, a critical insight in auto evolution. By integrating the engine, chassis and drive into a single entity, Benz set the standard for all future automotive design and engineering.

James Buchanan Eads created a series of inventions during the 1800s that improved transportation and the military defense of the Mississippi River region. His widespread innovations were crucial to river salvage, the success of the Union Navy during the Civil War, and infrastructure and engineering that enabled major advances in commerce.

These seven innovators join the 22 NIHF Inductees announced in 2020, as all 29 will be honored as the class of 2022 at the Annual National Inventors Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. The Inductees announced in 2020 include:

For biographies of each Inductee, click HERE. 

The Celebration

The 29 Inductees in the class of 2022 will be honored at “The Greatest Celebration of American Innovation,” held in our nation’s capital. Danica McKellar — star of the TV show “The Wonder Years,” Hallmark Channel regular, and author of New York Times bestselling “McKellar Math” books — will serve as master of ceremonies.

  • May 4 – Illumination Ceremony at the National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum at the USPTO Headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia, where new Inductees will place their names on illuminated hexagons in the museum’s Gallery of Icons™.
  • May 5 – The 2022 National Inventors Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held at The Anthem in Washington, D.C., where the new Inductee class will be honored for its contributions to society during an evening event including a black-tie dinner and ceremony. To learn more about the event, click HERE. 

“The National Inventors Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony truly is ‘The Greatest Celebration of American Innovation’ — focusing on the brilliance of inventors, the excitement of invention and the incredible benefits they bring to society,” said Andrew Hirshfeld, Commissioner for Patents and performing the functions and duties of the Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO. “The USPTO is proud to honor these innovators whose inventions have fundamentally changed our lives.”

“Innovation drives the worldwide economy forward and improves our quality of life. This is especially apparent given what we have experienced over the past 18 months. It’s why at the National Inventors Hall of Fame we are privileged to honor our country’s most significant inventors, who are giving the next generation the inspiration to innovate, create, and solve current and future problems,” said NIHF CEO Michael Oister.

Sponsors of the National Inventors Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony include the USPTO, Qualcomm, PhRMA and Walgreens Boots Alliance. 

About the National Inventors Hall of Fame

The National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF) is the premier nonprofit organization in America dedicated to recognizing inventors and invention, promoting creativity, and advancing the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. Founded in 1973 in partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, NIHF is committed to not only honoring the individuals whose inventions have made the world a better place, but to ensuring American ingenuity continues to thrive in the hands of coming generations through its national, hands-on educational programming and collegiate competitions focused on the exploration of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Explore the NIHF Museum digitally in Google Arts & Culture’s “Once Upon a Try” project. For more information, click HERE.

Cannabis illustration for 360 magazine

Kevin Durant Partners with WeedMaps

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Weedmaps Announces Multi-Year Partnership with Kevin Durant, Thirty Five Ventures, and Boardroom

Partnership inclusive of collaborative content aimed to combat misconceptions around cannabis and advocate for legalization

Weedmaps, a leading technology platform for cannabis consumers and businesses, announced today a multi-year agreement with Kevin Durant and Thirty Five Ventures as well as a sponsorship deal with Boardroom. As part of Weedmaps’ mission to power a transparent and inclusive global cannabis economy, this strategic partnership will aim to further deconstruct the negative stereotypes associated with cannabis while elevating the conversation around the plant’s potential for athlete wellness and recovery.

Now more than ever, there is so much opportunity for growth in the cannabis industry as well as the removal of any remaining stigmas around its use, said Kevin Durant, two-time NBA champion and president of Thirty Five Ventures. As the technology leader in the industry, Weedmaps has consistently been at the forefront of change over the last decade. In partnering with Boardroom and Thirty Five Ventures, they’ve shown an even bigger commitment to innovation.

Weedmaps will become an official sponsor of Thirty Five Ventures’ sports business media network, Boardroom, as part of the agreement. Available today, the latest episode of Boardroom’s Out of Office podcast brings together Rich Kleiman, Kevin Durant, and Weedmaps CEO Chris Beals to discuss the potential for the strategic partnership’s long-term impact across the industry, as well as the many challenges ahead that we must address as the country moves closer toward legalization.

As the largest technology provider in the sector, we are serious about our responsibility to lead the national discussion around cannabis and the need for cannabis regulations to be updated across the board, said Chris Beals, Chief Executive Officer of Weedmaps. This partnership with Kevin Durant, Rich Kleiman, and the team at Thirty Five Ventures is a pivotal step forward in our ongoing efforts to break down stigmas surrounding cannabis, especially in the sports industry.

In addition to its sponsorship agreement, Boardroom will collaborate with Weedmaps to produce an original content series, which is tentatively slated for debut in 2022. The multi-year agreement also comprises ongoing integrations with Boardroom, including: Out of Office podcast, development and distribution of original content, co-branded collaborations and events, exclusive merchandise, and more.

Part of Weedmaps’ broader sports and wellness initiative, the company’s partnership with Thirty Five Ventures aims to further educate consumers about the plant’s potential for wellness and recovery. For information about how cannabis affects the body, cannabis products used by some of today’s biggest names in sports, and more, visit their website. Check out the latest episode of Boardroom’s Out of Office podcast here, and for more on Boardroom, visit the website.

About Weedmaps

Weedmaps is a leading online marketplace for cannabis users and businesses, operated by WM Technology, Inc. WM Technology, Inc.’s (Nasdaq: MAPS) mission is to power a transparent and inclusive global cannabis economy. Now in its second decade, WM Technology has been a driving force behind much of the legislative change we’ve seen in the past 10 years.

Founded in 2008, WM Technology is a leading technology and software infrastructure provider to the cannabis industry, comprising a B2C platform, Weedmaps, and B2B software, WM Business. The cloud-based SaaS solutions from WM Business provide an end-to-end operating system for cannabis retailers. WM Business’ tools support compliance with the complex, disparate, and constantly evolving regulations applicable to the cannabis industry. Through its website and mobile apps, WM Technology provides consumers with the latest information about cannabis retailers, brands, and products, facilitating product discovery and driving engagement with our retail and brand customers.

WM Technology holds a strong belief in the power of cannabis and the importance of enabling safe, legal access to consumers worldwide. Since inception, WM Technology has worked tirelessly, not only to become the most comprehensive platform for consumers, but to build the software solutions that power businesses compliantly in the space, to advocate for legalization, social equity, and licensing in many jurisdictions, and to facilitate further learning through partnering with subject matter experts on providing detailed, accurate information about the plant.

Headquartered in Irvine, California, WM Technology supports remote work for all eligible employees. Visit Weedmaps here.

About Thirty Five Ventures

Co-founded by 2x NBA champion Kevin Durant and entrepreneur Rich Kleiman, Thirty Five Ventures includes the sports business media network Boardroom; an investment portfolio with over 70+ companies, including Acorns, Coinbase, Dutchie, Overtime, Dapper Labs/NBA Top Shot, Postmates, Goldin Auctions, and more; a film/TV arm with projects including the documentary series In the Water (SHOWTIME), the Academy Award-winning Two Distant Strangers (Netflix), and the upcoming scripted series SWAGGER (Apple); equity partnerships with premium audio brand Master & Dynamic and digital media network Just Women’s Sports; a minority stake in the Philadelphia Union; and management of Kevin Durant’s on-and-off court business

About Boardroom

Boardroom is a media network founded by Kevin Durant and Rich Kleiman that looks inside the business of sports as we’ve never seen. The old days of gate-keeping and closed-door meetings are gone: now, athletes, tech moguls, and executives alike are moving the sports world – and culture itself – forward. Boardroom is at the forefront of this change, bringing both fans and entrepreneurs unique perspectives on the sports business news, hot topics, and key industry players they want to know about. Boardroom is a Thirty Five Ventures company.