Category: Brandpoint Business & Finance

2026-05-21T12:00:00

(BPT) – By Eric Yu, Lenovo’s SVP & GM, CPC and SMB Segment

As we mark Small Business Month, it’s a moment to take stock of how quickly AI has moved from hype to everyday business tool. Across the SMB landscape, we’re seeing how far technology has come, from basic automation tools that handled repetitive tasks, to today’s AI systems that can generate content, analyze customer data in real time and support decision-making. Small business leaders are now entering a new phase of their AI journey, turning early adoption into lasting business value.

Notably, three quarters of SMBs are using AI and more than half are using generative AI, however, only 14% have integrated its capabilities into core operations, according to Goldman Sachs. The question is no longer whether to use AI, but rather, how to make it deliver results.

Despite rapid adoption, many are still struggling to turn experimentation into measurable business impact.

Three practical lessons can help SMBs move from adoption to impact:

1. Start with business outcomes

For small businesses, every technology decision must tie directly to outcomes. With limited resources and lean teams, there is little room for experimentation without clear return.

From an application standpoint, AI PCs provide a low-friction starting point, enabling capabilities such as transcription, summarization, predictive assistance and content generation, without heavy infrastructure investment. For lean teams with limited time and resources, this can mean replacing manual notetaking and review with AI-powered transcription and summarization that automatically highlight key decisions and actions in real time, freeing up capacity for strategizing and planning. This lowers the barrier to entry and allows entrepreneurs to move quickly from experimentation to tangible productivity gains.

The takeaway for SMBs: Begin with clear workflow bottlenecks, such as sales follow-ups, customer support, content creation and inventory management, and apply AI where it drives measurable impact. The most effective deployments are focused, targeted and tied to immediate business needs.

Ultimately, beginning with outcomes ensures AI is tied to business value from day one, creating a clear path to ROI and scalable growth.

2. AI succeeds when people are trained and workflows are redesigned

Technology alone will not drive measurable impact. Research shows that employee upskilling and effective human-AI collaboration are critical to successful AI implementation, underscoring the importance of investing in people alongside technology. Without this balance, even the most advanced tools risk being underutilized or operating in silos.

Instead of using AI tools sporadically, businesses should integrate them in ways that feel natural, intuitive and easy to adopt. For SMBs in particular, smart collaboration tools can be a good start. Imagine asking your AI assistant to schedule a meeting for 10 people and it automatically secures a room big enough to hold everybody and sends calendar invites. When the meeting starts, it provides real-time transcription, activates noise cancelation on the microphone, focuses the camera on the speaker, summarizes key messages, sends out action points, and more. What once could become a source of stress is now eliminated.

Equally important is ensuring these tools fit seamlessly into how people already work, particularly in hybrid work environments. AI adoption is more likely to succeed when tools are user-friendly, reduce friction and complement existing habits and processes rather than forcing employees to completely change how they operate. Early success in these areas can help build momentum and scale adoption across teams.

The bottom line: AI delivers value when it becomes part of how people work, not just a tool they occasionally use.

Companies like Lenovo offer the right combination of devices, solutions and support that is critical in helping SMBs operationalize AI effectively.

3. Embracing mentorship and Backing Every Business

Technology alone can’t close the gap between adoption and impact. Many SMBs understand the potential of AI, but lack the resources, tools or strategic direction to scale it effectively. Closing this gap requires not just technology, but guidance and partnership.

Initiatives like Lenovo’s Backing Every Business are designed to provide that support, connecting SMBs with mentorship, funding and technology to help them scale with confidence. In partnership with actress, producer, entrepreneur and social advocate Eva Longoria, Lenovo is spotlighting small business owners through its global “Twinning” campaign, connecting them with peer-to-peer mentorship, grant funding and AI-powered technology to help them grow and adapt in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

This approach recognizes a broader truth: SMBs don’t just need more technology; they need the right support and context for using it. That includes practical guidance on where to start, how to scale and how to align AI investments with business goals.

The most successful small businesses will be those that combine technology adoption with an external perspective and expertise.

Conclusion

AI adoption among small businesses is no longer the barrier; unlocking its full potential is.

As AI continues to evolve, the small businesses that succeed will be those that move beyond experimentation and embed these technologies into the fabric of how they operate. Those that do this effectively will turn AI from a tool into a true driver of growth.

2026-05-20T00:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• PR and MarCom professionals strive to achieve AI visibility for brands in today’s zero-click world, and need a way to measure their AI impact
• Brandpoint’s first-to-market solution, Brandpoint Optimize™, shows exactly where your brand appears in AI-generated answers and provides clear guidance on how to improve that visibility.
• Compounding paid and earned also builds AI authority.
• Turn your paid and earned content into real-time communications strategies for a competitive edge in AI visibility.

In the AI-driven digital landscape of 2026, how consumers seek information has fundamentally changed. Half of consumers use AI-powered search today, and because they now receive AI summaries, they no longer click on search results, leading to today’s zero-click phenomenon. AI is having a huge impact, with Gartner predicting that mass adoption of LLMs instead of traditional searches will lead to a doubling of PR and earned media budgets by 2027.

This leaves PR and Marcom professionals asking: How can you measure a brand’s AI visibility? After working hard to create content that tells a brand’s story, how do you know if your sponsored content and earned media placements are showing up in AI?

Brandpoint has the answer: Brandpoint Optimize™, the industry’s first all-in-one solution to create, distribute and measure brand campaigns across paid and earned media. This innovation helps to provide smart strategies to understand and enhance your brand’s AI visibility.

“The comms industry is rapidly evolving, with AI now deciding what consumers see in search results,” said Lisa Jilek, CEO of Brandpoint. “While PR and marketing professionals have trusted our network to get their content in front of the right audiences for 30 years, Brandpoint’s new suite of predictive intelligence tools is changing the face of MarCom planning today.”

Compounding paid and earned

Brandpoint’s solution creates well-structured paid content to create a searchable footprint, building authority and engagement signals that AI systems recognize. Added to that is earned coverage, which gets re-syndicated via paid channels to validate that footprint and further enhance AI visibility.

How to assess the quality of a brand’s AI visibility

Brandpoint helps PR and marketing pros prove the impact of their work with the first-to-market, all-in-one solution for effective brand storytelling, offering premium content placement, earned editorial coverage and measurable AI visibility.

In addition, Brandpoint now connects every campaign directly to measurable AI visibility with Brandpoint Optimize™, providing actionable intelligence on how campaigns performed, and — more importantly — on what to do next.

With the launch of Brandpoint Optimize™, brands can distribute branded content at scale, drive earned media pickup and see how their content surfaces in AI-driven searches.

Reports that measure branded content’s impact on AI search

For the first time, PR and MarCom leaders will have access to reports that help them understand the quality of their AI visibility as well as how audiences and competitors behave, and can use those insights to plan and execute smarter campaigns. This is the capability the industry has needed, and a category only Brandpoint could create.

“Since the AI revolution swept the industry, our clients have been asking, ‘How do we know our content is showing up in AI, and how do we prove it?'” said Stacy Stusynski, chief commercial officer, Brandpoint. “Nobody had a good answer, so we created one.”

Why only Brandpoint could create this solution

Building this capability required Brandpoint’s 30 years of experience and expertise that no competitor can replicate overnight:

• Three decades of learning from PR industry insights and MarCom behavior data.
• A proprietary network of high-authority news and media publications.
• The infrastructure to connect distribution and editorial coverage to measurable outcomes.

That foundation makes the difference, and is the reason Brandpoint was the only company that could deliver the solution.

“Brandpoint doesn’t just place content; it places content where the results can expand,” explained Stusynski. “Premium distribution builds editorial presence, and editorial presence builds AI visibility.”

Gaining a competitive edge in AI visibility

Brandpoint Optimize™ helps turn your paid and earned content into real-time communications strategies, giving your brand a competitive edge. AI visibility is what builds brand authority in 2026, and now, for the first time, enterprise leaders can measure every step of that chain and act on what the data shows.

Frequently asked questions:

How can you make content appealing to AI crawlers?

Content that is well-written, clearly structured, timely and credible will be perceived as more authoritative. Creating subheads similar to common queries, using bullet points, citing credible sources and using relevant quotes are all methods that help content be more “visible” to AI.

Brandpoint aims to create and distribute high-quality, human-written content that meets all of these criteria, speaking directly to your target audience with clarity, authority and authenticity.

What is included in Brandpoint Optimize™?

• Paid Placement: Article placement and companion release on Brandpoint’s exclusive, highly indexable, 800+ premium publisher network.
• Earned Media: Turn that distribution into earned editorial coverage promoted to thousands of editors.
• AI Visibility Report: Measure the impact on your brand’s AI visibility with actionable insights and recommendations on what to do next.

What does Brandpoint Optimize™ report on?

The AI Visibility Report offers numerous insights, including:

• Your brand’s visibility in leading AI search engines.
• How your brand’s visibility is impacted by content distribution.
• Share of voice in your product category.
• Brand sentiment within AI responses.
• Recommendations for content and distribution strategies.

PR and MarCom professionals are at the forefront of the new AI visibility economy, and Brandpoint’s innovation has created the industry’s first AI visibility solution at scale.

“We’re not just keeping pace with how brands get found today,” said Jilek. “We’re leading it.”

Learn more about how to measure your brand’s AI visibility at Brandpoint.com.

2026-05-14T06:31:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• Scoring seats to watch your favorite football team play doesn’t have to break the bank.
• Simple tips like choosing the right games, using deal-finding apps, taking advantage of rewards programs, and planning for game-day expenses can help you have a great time on a budget.
• You can visit sites or apps like Vivid Seats to find NFL football tickets at some of the lowest prices.

Fans across the country are gearing up for football season! If you’re one of them, it’s time to start planning which games you’ll attend in person, picking your seats and finding your fan gear so you can cheer your team on to victory.

As you plan your game day, think about ways you can save on your day out. To help get you started, check out these four expert tips that can help you have a great time at the stadium without breaking the bank.

Choosing the right games for value

The game you choose can make a huge difference in ticket prices.

Primetime matchups, particularly those played on Thursday and Monday nights, often come with a premium price tag for fans. Data suggests that opting for a Sunday game can offer meaningful savings. On average, tickets for Sunday matchups are about 6% cheaper than Monday Night Football games and around 4% cheaper than Thursday Night Football games, making them a more budget-friendly choice for fans looking to cut costs.

Also, consider looking beyond marquee matchups, games featuring popular or high-performing teams and players. Instead, buy tickets for games featuring lower-ranked teams, which are often more affordable. No matter the matchup, you’re guaranteed to have fun at an NFL game. The game day experience is what it’s all about.

Buy tickets from deal-finding apps

Not all ticket sites or apps offer the same ticket prices or customer service experience. Look for affordable tickets to see your favorite NFL teams on apps like Vivid Seats.

Bought your tickets and then thought you found better prices somewhere else? Don’t worry. If you bought tickets on the Vivid Seats app, you can take advantage of its in-app Lowest Price Guarantee*. If you spot the same NFL ticket for less on a qualifying competitor site, Vivid Seats will match the price.

Always make sure you are buying from a trusted source. Look for third-party credentials to confirm that the site is legitimate and a member of the National Association of Ticket Brokers (NATB). When you purchase a ticket from a trusted brand like Vivid Seats, you can count on transparent ticket prices thanks to its all-in pricing model, which shows the full ticket price, including all fees, up front. That means the price you see when choosing your seats will be the same price you’ll see at checkout, no surprises, so you can choose seats that best match your budget.

Using rewards to offset costs

Just like you would for hotels and flights, don’t forget to look into loyalty and rewards programs. If you plan to attend more than one football game throughout the season, choose a site or app that rewards repeat customers.

For example, the Vivid Seats Rewards program allows football fans to earn rewards on every purchase, which they can redeem for free tickets, while also getting surprise seat upgrades and other game-day exclusives.

Budgeting tips beyond tickets

Ticket prices aren’t the only expenses you need to budget for when going out to a football game. Costs like parking and concessions can quickly add up, especially when you’re going out as a group or family.

A simple way to save on parking can be to purchase or reserve a spot ahead of time to avoid day-of prices. Not only can you save on parking at or around the stadium, but you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you won’t have to waste time looking for a spot, and you can look at options like tailgates to make the most of your game day visit. You can also research whether the stadium offers a park-and-ride service that will drop you off right in front of the gates. Many of the apps and sites you use to find tickets can also help you find affordable parking options.

Stadium concessions can also put a strain on your wallet. The good news is that many stadiums offer discounts and value meals, so you can enjoy a drink or two and a hot dog while staying on budget.

Ready to kick off an affordable football season?

Cheering on your favorite football team doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Using these four tips, you can enjoy watching live football and save some money while you’re at it. To learn more about ticket pricing and find games for your favorite football teams, visit VividSeats.com/NFL.

*Submit claim within 1 hour to get 115% of the price difference as a Vivid Seats credit. Valid only on comparable tickets at eligible marketplaces. Limit $200 Vivid Seats credit per claim; 2 claims per year. Additional restrictions and terms apply. See full terms.

2026-05-07T05:01:00

(BPT) – Before most people wake up, millions of Americans are already at work. Electricians loading vans in the dark. Utility crews restoring power after a storm. Contractors hauling equipment to a job site before sunrise. These are the workers — and the small businesses behind them — that keep the country functioning, often without fanfare.

Now, the automaker that builds more work trucks and vans for U.S. businesses than any other is offering those customers something typically reserved for its own employees: internal pricing on the vehicles they depend on every day.

From now through July 6, Ford Pro is launching “Employee Pricing: From Our Business to Yours,” giving commercial and small business customers access to what Ford employees actually pay — well below MSRP — on eligible Ford Pro vehicles. No negotiation, no rebate hunting. The price is the price.

Why Ford Pro, and why now?

Ford has been building vehicles designed for work since 1905. Today, its Transit vans and Super Duty trucks are operated by more small businesses than those of any other automaker in America. Ford Pro, the company’s commercial vehicle and services division, exists specifically to serve these customers — the plumbers, general contractors, municipal fleets and first responders who rely on their vehicles not as luxuries, but as essential tools.

The timing is intentional. With operating costs rising across the board — fuel, insurance, parts, labor — Ford says it wants to ease the financial pressure on the businesses and workers that form the backbone of local economies.

“This isn’t a promotion,” said Alicia Boler Davis, president of Ford Pro. “It is a sign of mutual respect. It is our way of easing the burden on the businesses and unsung heroes that carry the weight of this country on their shoulders.”

A personal connection to the work

For Boler Davis, the initiative is more than corporate strategy. She grew up in a blue-collar home in the Detroit area, where her father and grandfather both worked in automotive manufacturing during their careers at Ford. She later joined the company herself as an intern.

“I feel immense pride when I reflect on the work that they did to provide for our family; the long shifts were the foundation to my education and paved the way for my career,” she said. “This is why I came to Ford Pro. I am committed to helping make a difference for today’s essential workers.”

What’s included?

The program covers eligible Ford Pro commercial vehicles and work-site staples, including:

• Super Duty — Ford’s heavy-duty work truck lineup
• Transit Van — the full-size commercial van used across trades and fleets
• F-150 — America’s best-selling truck, a staple for contractors and small business owners
• Maverick and Ranger — smaller-footprint trucks for businesses that need versatility without the bulk

Specific trim eligibility and full vehicle details are available at FordPro.com or through local Ford dealers.

What it comes down to

Ford’s commercial customers already keep the company’s trucks and vans on the road longer and harder than most. This program flips the script — instead of asking businesses to navigate incentive stacks and dealer markups, Ford is simply offering them the same deal its own people get.

Whether you’re a one-truck operation or managing a fleet, the math is simple: employee pricing means real savings on the vehicles your business already runs on.

The “Employee Pricing: From Our Business to Yours” program runs now through July 6, 2026. For details, visit FordPro.com or contact your local Ford commercial vehicle dealer.

2026-05-01T06:01:00

(BPT) – Rising grocery bills, higher gas prices, insurance premiums ticking up; all of it adds up to more Americans feeling financially squeezed. So, when the country’s largest employer of hourly U.S. autoworkers says it is opening its employee pricing to the public, it’s worth understanding what’s on the table and what’s behind the announcement.

Starting May 1, Ford is launching a new pricing program “American Value for American Values” which will run through July 6 and offer employee pricing on most new 2025 and 2026 Ford and Lincoln vehicles to all U.S. customers. You pay what a Ford Motor Company employee pays, which is their pricing, well below the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. The program can save buyers anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the vehicle.

To get the price, you won’t need to hunt down and wait for a rebate, clip a coupon or negotiate on the lot. The price is the price.

The initiative from Ford is tied to America’s upcoming 250th anniversary — the semiquincentennial — and the company says it’s not just a limited-time sale; it’s a gesture of gratitude toward the customers and communities that have supported Ford for over a century.

“You are not just customers to us. You are the reason we show up to work,” said Andrew Frick, president of Ford Blue and Model e. “We want to treat you like family, and that extends to employee pricing on our new vehicles.”

Ford has been building vehicles in America for nearly 125 years — almost half of the country’s entire history. The company employs more U.S. hourly autoworkers and assembles more vehicles domestically than any other automaker, a legacy that traces back to Henry Ford’s introduction of the $5-a-day wage in 1914, a move widely credited with helping build the American middle class.

That history is central to the campaign’s message.

This isn’t just about discounts on vehicles — Ford is anchoring it to something bigger: the idea that in a moment when the country feels loud and divided, there’s value in leaning into the things that still hold people together — hard work, community and showing up for your neighbors.

What vehicles are included?

The list is broad. Most new 2025 and 2026 Ford and Lincoln models are eligible, including some of the brand’s most popular nameplates:

• Trucks: F-150, Maverick, Ranger, Super Duty (select trims)
• SUVs: Bronco, Bronco Sport, Explorer, Expedition, Escape
• Cars: Mustang
• Electric vehicles: Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, E-Transit
• Commercial: Transit Van
• Lincoln: Corsair, Nautilus, Aviator, Navigator

Some specialty and limited-production models are excluded, including the Raptor lineup, Mustang GTD and certain high-trim Super Duty configurations. A full list of eligible vehicles is available at Ford.com or through local dealerships.

What about electric vehicles?

Electric vehicle buyers can not only save with employee pricing but also take advantage of Ford’s ongoing Power Promise program, which includes a complimentary home charger and standard installation, a frequently cited hurdle for first-time EV owners. The Power Promise also includes 24/7 EV support, roadside assistance, access to over 25,000 Tesla Superchargers via an available adapter and an 8-year, 100,000-mile battery warranty.

Ford has a long history of investing in U.S. workers, factories and communities, so it’s not just a promotion with a patriotic bow on it.

“Value is not only about what you pay,” Frick noted. “It is also about what a company stands for, where it invests and who it shows up for.”

Whether or not you buy the sentiment, the math is straightforward: Employee pricing means real savings on vehicles that millions of Americans already depend on for work, family life and everything in between.

The American Value for American Values program runs from May 1 through July 6, 2026. If you’ve been in the market for a new truck, SUV or EV, this is one of the rare moments where a major automaker is offering its internal pricing to the public — no strings, no negotiation, no catch.

For more details, visit Ford.com or contact your local Ford dealer.

2026-04-28T13:26:30

(BPT) – As small businesses across the country grapple with rising costs, payroll volatility, and global uncertainty, many are seeking new ways to adapt and thrive. The latest Chase Small Business Pulse report paints a nuanced picture: while profitability for the median Chase business remains stable, the pressures of payroll and non-payroll expenses are mounting, and the impact of higher fuel prices is already rippling through sectors like freight trucking.

Payroll: A Barometer of Optimism and Challenge

Payroll trends offer a window into the mindset of small business owners. After a sharp decline in January, payroll growth rebounded in February 2026 — a sign of renewed optimism and a willingness to invest in talent. This growth was not uniform, however. Sectors such as finance, construction, and transportation saw the highest median payroll growth rates, while others lagged behind, reflecting an uneven recovery and persistent caution in parts of the economy. Meanwhile, non-payroll expenses remain historically elevated, adding another layer of complexity to business planning.

Technology as a Lifeline

In this environment, technology is emerging as a lifeline. Digital solutions like Invoicing with QuickAccept, contactless payments, cash flow tools, and industry insights are designed to give leaders greater visibility and control, which are essential in a world where volatility is the new normal.

Jameson Troutman, Head of Product at Chase for Business, sees this shift firsthand through years of working with small business owners. “We hear it directly from small businesses every day; new technology is playing a major role in bolstering their operations.” He added, “Chase for Business is dedicated to providing practical support and tools to help customers navigate key business decisions, such as cash flow challenges and tighter margins. Our job is to empower small business owners through tools, expertise and business solutions to allow them to manage and strengthen their businesses.”

Not All Businesses Face the Same Headwinds

The data also reveals that not all small businesses are affected equally. Women-owned businesses, for example, are navigating even greater unpredictability: 68% report unpredictable revenues, and many have far less cash on hand than their male-owned counterparts. These disparities underscore the importance of accessible, practical support, both digital and human.

Beyond Technology: Building Community and Confidence

Chase’s commitment extends beyond technology. Through in-person events like The Experience and national JPMorganChase programs such as the American Dream Initiative, Chase is bringing small business owners the resources, coaching, and community connections to help build resilience and confidence. It is all of these resources and support that Chase for Business provides that is the reason that more small business owners choose Chase than any other bank.

Looking Ahead

In today’s dynamic environment, optimism remains a hallmark of entrepreneurship, but it’s clear that resilience is built on more than hope. With the right tools, guidance, and support, small businesses can navigate uncertainty and move forward with confidence. Chase for Business is betting big on that future, investing in the solutions and partnerships that will help America’s small businesses not just survive, but thrive.

2026-04-28T07:01:00

(BPT) – May 2 is National Life Insurance Day. For millions of Americans, now is the time to re-examine your current policy or think about applying for one. Even though most people think life insurance can be complicated, the need has never been greater. Only 51% of U.S. adults have a life insurance policy, representing a $14T coverage gap in the United States (Greenwald Research), and nearly 41% of adults in the U.S. are somewhat or not at all knowledgeable about life insurance (Life Happens and LIMRA).

Don’t be intimidated. It’s important for everyone to protect their income, assets and loved ones from life’s uncertainties.

Life insurance has also changed drastically over the years to include new living benefits policyholders may potentially take advantage of while they are still living to help pay for costs associated with certain serious qualifying illnesses, caregiving responsibilities and other life events.

According to National Life Group, there are several key things to consider as you decide if you need coverage or should update an existing policy.

Key questions for those without life insurance:

Does anyone depend on you financially?

If so, it may be a good idea to explore life insurance options to financially support your dependents should anything happen to you.

Are you a parent/grandparent or a caregiver for dependents or elderly parents?

Parents and grandparents should plan ahead to understand what options are available for estate planning and their children’s future. Additionally, caregivers of elderly parents may be able to take advantage of certain living benefits of their life insurance policy for support.

Do you have any debt you co-own or are co-signed with? (including a mortgage)

If you have a significant amount of debt you are co-signed with another party (the most common being a mortgage) without coverage, they could be left holding the bill for the entire debt.

Do you have an estate that needs protection?

It’s smart to have protection in place as part of a dedicated estate plan to ensure the quick, amicable and seamless transfer of wealth from one generation to the next.

Key questions for those with life insurance:

Have you started a family or have family members that are financially dependent on you?

If you recently started a family and have an existing policy, it may be worth speaking with your agent to ensure your new family’s coverage needs are met. Your dependents can include anyone from children to parents to siblings with special needs.

Have you purchased a new home, changed careers or received a change in salary?

Significant changes in your income may require a new look at your existing policy to ensure your coverage works for you.

Is your policy several years old and has not been recently reviewed?

Ask your agent to see if you are eligible for new benefits or policy riders. Insurance partners are frequently adding new benefits or features for their policyholders. If your policy isn’t automatically enrolled in new features, it may be time to speak with your agent to review your current policy.

Whether you already have a life insurance policy or are considering one, answering these key questions will help as you decide if you need coverage or should update your existing policy. For more information, visit www.nationallife.com.

Living benefits are provided by no-additional-premium Accelerated Benefits Riders (ABRs). Payment of accelerated benefits will reduce the cash value and/or death benefit otherwise payable under the policy. Receipt of accelerated benefits may be a taxable event, may affect your eligibility for public assistance programs, and may reduce or eliminate other policy and rider benefits. Please consult your tax professional to determine the tax status of any benefits paid under this rider and with social service agencies concerning how receipt of such a payment could affect you.

Riders are supplemental benefits that can be added to a life insurance policy and are not suitable unless you also have a need for life insurance. Riders are optional, may require additional premium, and may not be available in all states or on all products. This is not a solicitation of a life insurance policy.

The companies of National Life Group and their representatives do not offer tax or legal advice. For advice concerning your own situation, please consult with your appropriate professional advisor.

TC8884862(0426)1

2026-04-27T08:01:00

(BPT) – Learning about money was once a hands-on experience. Kids counted coins, put dollar bills in a wallet and dropped spare change in a piggy bank. Saving, spending and budgeting were tangible, making those lessons easier to understand.

Today, money matters are much different. Purchases happen with a tap, a swipe or an online checkout, and few physical reminders indicate that money is being spent. For kids, it can be difficult to understand where money goes, how quickly it adds up and why small decisions matter.

Fortunately, financial literacy basics haven’t changed. Kids still need to learn how to save, spend wisely and make thoughtful decisions. Parents may just need to rethink how they teach those lessons, and the following tips can help.

Help kids see where the money goes.

If money feels invisible, parents can find ways to make it more visible. That can be as simple as sitting down together and looking at a balance, reviewing a recent purchase or checking progress toward a savings goal. When kids see what comes in, goes out and remains, they can connect spending decisions with outcomes.

Everyday banking tools can serve as practical learning tools. For example, ICCU youth accounts have free automatic parent transfers, alerts and transaction history, which can support family discussions about saving and spending in real-time.

Use everyday money moments to talk about choices.

Financial lessons don’t need to be formal or delivered all at once. Often, the best lessons happen in the middle of ordinary moments. If a child asks for a treat at the grocery store, wants to buy something online or wonders why a purchase was postponed, parents can use these types of natural openings to talk about money and choices.

Conversations may address distinguishing between needs and wants, deciding if one purchase matters more than another, or weighing whether spending money now means waiting longer for something else. Such discussions can help children understand trade-offs, priorities and planning ahead.

Give children opportunities to practice with guidance.

Kids learn a lot by doing. Once equipped with a basic understanding of saving and spending, it can be helpful to give them opportunities to practice managing money with some oversight.

They may want to set aside money they receive as gifts and watch their savings grow. Or, they may consider where to spend their savings and how much. The amount doesn’t need to be large to be meaningful. Kids simply need a chance to ask questions, make decisions and learn.

As children grow, conversations about money may shift toward earning. Kids can be encouraged to do chores or find jobs around the neighborhood, such as pet-sitting or yardwork, to earn extra money for their expenses. Parents can check in regularly and keep talking through choices as they come up.

Talk about safely managing money.

Teaching kids about money involves addressing how to handle digital tools safely for their protection. As they get older, they may use conveniences like a debit card, digital payments or online banking.

Parents should cover keeping personal information private, paying attention to account activity, and asking questions and speaking up when something seems off. Tools and protections such as zero liability protection, which is often offered through card networks, can be part of a safety net, but kids should learn responsible habits from the start. Understanding how to use money and how to protect it can put them on a stronger financial path.

Managing money may look different than it once did, but one thing remains the same: When kids gain a strong understanding of how money works and how to make smart choices early, they are better prepared to build strong habits for a lifetime.

2026-04-27T08:05:00

(BPT) – Can you remember the last time you undertook a creative activity or project? If it’s been a while, don’t blame yourself. You might be tempted to attribute it to a lack of motivation, but — more likely than not — you’re feeling foggy, drained and uninspired because of digital overload.

The seemingly endless stream of notifications, emails and updates can make it difficult for your brain to turn off and rest, leading to mental fatigue. This fatigue can be the real culprit that keeps you from performing the hobbies that once brought you joy.

The good news? There’s a simple way to help clear the mental fog. Take a step away from the screens and engage in a restorative, analog act: Writing with pen and paper.

Writing by hand can help ground you, encourage you to think more creatively and empower you to act on your ideas. It’s the perfect way to start an energy reset and intentionally form a new habit that can feed your creativity.

Get started with these simple yet engaging practices to spark your energy and create momentum.

Ease your brain into writing with a ritual

Do you find it difficult to launch straight into a relaxing or creative project when you’ve just finished work for the day? It’s not your fault. Your brain needs help transitioning from one task to another, especially when they’re completely different types of activities. Thankfully, you can cue your brain to switch from work mode into creative mode with simple rituals that reduce the mental friction of getting started.

Create an environment that allows you to relax and leave the worries of the day behind. Turn on soft lighting, put on a curated playlist, pour a fresh cup of tea or coffee and grab a notebook that makes you feel excited to put pen to paper. It’s an easy way to train your brain to reset, so you can focus and tap into your thoughts, feelings and creative ideas.

Boost your mood with intentional color choices

Color is more than just an aesthetic choice. It has the power to shift your mood, energy and mindset, and — ultimately — fuel your creativity.

This isn’t speculation; it’s color science. Many studies have shown that different colors can evoke different emotions and stimulate different cognitive functions. For example, blues can create a sense of calm and focus, yellows can inspire optimism and creativity, and reds can stimulate energy and action. That means that the color you choose can help you tap into the mood-boosting and focus-enhancing effects of that hue.

Activate your energy while writing by choosing sun-kissed shades like reds, oranges and yellows to fuel your vitality, motivation and ideas. A tool like the G2 Boost Energy Pack can help integrate color science into your life by giving you the power to supercharge your energy and attitude for creative ventures.

This intentionally curated energy toolkit is thoughtfully designed to support your mood and creativity. The pack features shades of red to stimulate alertness and action, orange to encourage enthusiasm and yellow to spark optimism and idea generation. By incorporating this curated set of pens into your writing ritual, you have the tools to enhance the energy and momentum of your day.

Feeling overwhelmed? Take your thoughts outdoors

In a world where stimulation is everywhere, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and distracted. Instead of trying to fight through the mental fatigue, try writing outdoors to restore your attention, mental clarity and creativity.

Connecting with nature has a grounding effect on your body and mind. In fact, studies have shown just 20 minutes in nature can significantly lower your stress hormone levels.

Take a walk in the park or nature preserve with a notebook and pen in a meaningful color and find a quiet spot. Take a moment to revel in the rejuvenating power of fresh air, sunshine and the feel of grass underneath your feet. Start by listing what you see, then write down how each item from that list makes you feel. You’ll quickly find that pairing nature with writing by hand can be the perfect remedy for mental overload.

Surprise the group chat with letters

Writing letters by hand forces you to slow down and think deeply about your loved one, cultivating a deeper connection. Instead of relying solely on digital communication to keep up with friends and family near and far, try to reconnect by sending handwritten letters.

Digital communication is convenient, but it can also be impersonal and fleeting. However, when you write and send a letter, you can show the recipient that you care for them in a lasting, tangible way. Your friend or loved one will have a lasting memento that they can hold and reread again and again.

Choose stationary or notecards that feel special — whether through inviting colors such as blue that can promote productivity or green that signal a calm and balanced tone — or playful details to help you look forward to letter writing. Select vibrant pen colors like those from the G2 Boost Collection to reflect or enhance the emotional impact of your words.

Capture inspiration without digital distractions

Have you ever had a brilliant idea that you attempted to save to your notes app, but got distracted by notifications before you could capture it? Don’t let your ideas fly away. Stay in the moment and capture your ideas quickly on paper.

Whether you’re at your desk, in the kitchen or out running errands, keep a notebook or notepad nearby. Not only will you be able to quickly record your ideas, but the physical act of writing also strengthens your memory pathways so your ideas can stick. When you have time, you can flip through your notebook and let your ideas build creative momentum.

Build creative moments and energy with intention

Think of creativity and energy as muscles you can activate and strengthen with intentional practices like writing by hand. While it may be challenging at first, tailoring your environment and routines to prioritize writing can spark ingenuity, sharpen your focus and drive your desire to create.

To explore more energizing tools to support your writing and cultivate creative ideas, visit PowerToThePen.com.

2026-04-14T14:45:00

(BPT) – Recycling programs continue to improve and become more accessible, increasing opportunities for everyone to do their part in giving materials a second life and reducing waste. In 2025 alone, nearly 2.5 million additional households gained the ability to recycle food and beverage cartons.

In honor of Earth Month this April, learn how the simple act of carton recycling can reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, plus creates valuable products. This helps to reduce the demand on limited resources as well as the environmental impact of extracting those resources.

Beginning with recyclable materials

To ensure recycling is possible, it’s vital for companies to start with materials that can be repurposed after their primary use is done. With this goal from the start, Tetra Pak^® designed their food and beverage packages with their second life already in mind. The average Tetra Pak carton is made from 70% paperboard, a renewable material derived from responsibly managed sources, such as from Forest Stewardship Council^® (FSC^®) certified forests and other controlled sources. This special packaging protects its contents and is recyclable for the majority of U.S. households.

Tetra Pak has worked to promote and encourage more effective widespread recycling programs. In 2009, the company joined with other carton manufacturers in the U.S. to establish the Carton Council, an organization committed to increasing the number of cartons that are collected, sorted, and recycled. The Carton Council aims to build a sustainable infrastructure and to continue advancing carton recycling throughout the country.

What happens to cartons in their second life

By recycling your cartons, you’re not just reducing what ends up in a landfill, you’re helping create new products, such as tissue products, writing paper and even green building materials.

Once cartons have been collected, they are taken to the local materials recovery facility (MRF). There they are sorted and baled, and those bales are sent to recyclers where they can follow one of two paths: being sent to a papermill or to a building materials producer.

The most common path leads cartons to papermills, where they are turned into pulp by a hydrapulper. The pulp is then rolled into thin sheets and is used to create tissues, toilet paper and writing paper.

Cartons that go to a building materials producer are shredded, then pressed under high heat into long-lasting, green building materials for roof systems.

You can see the entire process by watching this video.

What you can do

Food packaging plays an essential role in protecting food safety, food quality and extending shelf life to reduce food waste. But, once it is done protecting food, it needs your help to make it to the recycling bin. This Earth Month, learn more about carton recycling at Tetrapakusa.com. To find a carton recycling center near you, go to RecycleCartons.com/carton-recycling-locator.