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Worst Ex Ever Season 2: Release Date & Rumours

Abbie Wilson
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Worst Ex Ever Season 2: Release Date & Rumours

Last August, the latest addition to the library of Netflix documentary series, Worst Ex Ever, arrived. On its debut week, season 1 of the TV show landed on the top spot of the streaming platform with 8.3 million views. However, two weeks into September, the series has slipped into the third spot, while still registering relatively strong viewership. To get the latest updates about the anticipated follow-up season, here’s what you need to know about the release date and other rumored details about the show.

Worst Ex Ever Plot

From the creators of Worst Roommate Ever, Blumhouse, Worst Ex Ever is a true-crime documentary series that scrutinizes the dark side of romantic relationships through real-life testimonies. The spin-off depicts disturbing accounts of people enduring a life-and-death situation with their monstrous partners. Each episode documents extremely violent partners from information gathered through the stories of survivors, families, and the authorities.

Release Date

After only four episodes in the entire season 1 of the Worst Ex Ever, it has received positive feedback and reactions from critics and audiences — causing fans of the show to call for a second season. The reception is mostly driven by its favorable direction, pacing, and the stories. However, despite the good numbers and flattering reviews, Netflix has yet to announce a season 2 for the series.

On the brighter side, amidst the rampant cancellations or renewals of Netflix shows, Worst Ex Ever may still be on the lookout given how the show is set up. Plus, the streaming platform tends to provide leeway for true crime series because of the importance of completion rate and the expected high viewership brought by an established fanbase.

At the same time, the show presents possibilities that it follows the footsteps of its predecessor in the franchise, which had two successful seasons and is currently in production for upcoming installments. Likewise, the series is under the good hands of producer Cynthia Child, who has a reputation for maintaining long-running shows.

With the uncertainty still looming around the series, fans can expect a second season by the end of 2025 if Netflix ever gives it the green light.

Is Worst Ex Ever Based on True Events?

Yes, it is based on true stories and experiences of victims’ relationships that went wrong violently. Presented through reenactments and interviews, Worst Ex Ever tracks the rough lives of individuals after their literally most harmful relationships.

What could happen in Worst Ex Ever Season 2?

As of now, with barely any announcements to chew from Netflix and the production house, the audience can presume another 4 episodes discussing the cases in a more in-depth manner. Also, familiar dramatic moments and emotional confrontations that send chills down the spine of viewers could continue in a follow-up season.

CS2 Rare Skins List & Prices

Abbie Wilson
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CS2 Rare Skins List & Prices

In this article, you will discover the rarest skins in Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), along with their respective prices.

Counter-Strike 2

CS2 is a free, tactical, first-person shooter video game that was released in March 2023. Developed by Valve, the game centers around two opposing teams, the counter-terrorists, and the terrorists, in various modes with several objectives to accomplish.

What are CS2 Skins?

Skins are a famously known strategy for players to express their visual style and personalize the overall gameplay experience. In the same sense, it boosts their bragging rights against competing players. Consequently, skins have become an integral part of the CS2 identity.

Meanwhile, the rarity of skins is categorized into seven classifications namely common, industrial, mil-spec, restricted, classified, covert, and exceedingly rare. Accordingly, the rarer the skin is in CS2, the higher the price it sits at.

Top 5 Rarest CS2 Skins with Prices

  • M4A4 Howl

At the pinnacle is M4A4 Howl, which is considered a legend in the CS2 gaming community. Unprecedented circumstances paved the way for the skin to become rare. Valve pulled out the skin on the original market after receiving a DMCA complaint accusing the developers of illegal use of his creation.

The highest steam price is $13,437.02, while the lowest steam price is $3,245.54.

  • Karambit Case Hardened (Blue Gem)

Landing in second place is Karambit Case Hardened, which is the most expensive skin in the counter-strike world, reaching the 100 million dollar mark in 2016. It is the rarest of them all, as it is labeled as one of a kind that forges a lethal appearance.

The highest steam price is $2,043.51, while the lowest steam price is $676.17.

  • Sport Gloves Pandora’s Box

Arriving third is the Sport Gloves Pandora’s Box, which is included in the list of most expensive CS2 skins in general. The skin’s unique design and rare finish became popular in the CS2 community, especially for players who love purple gear.

The highest steam price is $58,695.98, while the lowest steam price is $1,350.69.

  • AK-47 Wild Lotus

Ranking fourth is the AK-47 Wilde Lotus, which is the most visually pleasing skin with its floral design and appealing color palette. The fact that the well-renowned design is specifically made for the fan-favorite weapon makes everything a lot sweeter for users.

The highest steam price is $11,321.96, while the lowest steam price is $2,485.80.

  • AWP Dragon Lore

Completing the list is the AWP Dragon Lore, which is a legendary symbol of status in the game. The skin is probably the most hard to find on the market, considering its golden design.

The highest steam price is $41,432.45, while the lowest steam price is $414,324.56.

Aside from the breathtaking gaming experience that CS2 offers, these rare skins bring everything a notch higher. So, if you ever get your hands on one, make sure to have enough money to enjoy flaunting them on the maps!

Best Running Shoes for Shin Splints

Sebastian Bickley
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Best Running Shoes for Shin Splints

Just like anything in the world, running can be a lot of fun until it causes pain. That’s the truth, and the truth hurts – just like shin splints!

Shin splints are a constant variable of running. It refers to pain around the shin or tibia areas caused by over-usage. It is characterized by the aching front part of the lower legs. If not prevented or cured, it can lead to swelling, redness, stress fractures, and compartment syndrome.

Accordingly, learning to manage the condition by wearing the right, comfortable shoes can be the key to keeping you from shin pain. Luckily, the styles we’ll show you below will also keep you looking fashionable and ready-to-go at your local running club.

Here is a list of the best running shoes for those suffering from shin splints:

Asics Novablast 4

The best overall in every aspect is the Asics Novablast 4. It is most suitable for outdoors, in indoor gyms, and for daily wear. The shoes are lightweight, breathable, durable, and have a thick but firm cushioning. Runners say that the shoes effectively protect joints and deliver a secure fit for periods of wear.

Saucony Women’s Ride 17 Running Shoes

The top choice for beginners is the Saucony Women’s Ride 17 Running Shoes. Saucony is best used for daily training. It is very responsive, breathable, and has great shock absorption. The shoes are not squishy and bulky during runs, which makes running feel easier. These shoes start at a reasonable £135 and come in many great variations, Finch Gum being our favourite.

Brooks Ghost 16

Considered the best for road running is the Brooks Ghost 16. They are specifically designed for neutral runners, who need to resist the challenges of running on pavement. The Brooks has a spacious toe box, an APMA seal of acceptance, and excellent shock absorption. The shoes allow your feet to stay cool, avoiding overheating during runs. These bad boy running shoes start at £135 coming in various width and sizes to suit specific runner needs.

On Running Cloudsurfer

Labeled as the most lightweight is the On Running Cloudsurfer. It is also best for beginners, who mainly run on concrete roads. The Cloudsurfer has a snug fit, soft cushion and tongue, and responsive cushioning. The pair of shoes prevents pain, such as foot cramps and calf tightness.

Altra Timp 5

For trail runners, the best option is the Altra Timp 5. They are made for neutral runners, who go on long runs on the trail or seek the thrill of hikes. The Altra has a secure fit, responsive cushioning, and excellent traction. Runners attest that it enables good energy return when in use.

While individuals can technically run barefoot, taking note of the best shoes for every occasion or track is one way to elevate your running game and keep yourself safe from injuries. 

Gifting Comfort: Why Family Pajamas Make the Perfect Present

Our Culture Mag & Partners
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Gifting Comfort: Why Family Pajamas Make the Perfect Present

When it comes to the perfect gift, the options are pretty limitless. For the most part, we all get overwhelmed by the options and try to land on something considerate and effective. Family pajamas are an ideal gift that merges comfort, some utility, and a bit of fun.

Family pajamas have grown in popularity over the years and now are a normalized staple in holidays, special occasions, and just ’cause. In this blog, we shall look at why family pajamas are the perfect gifts and how they can bring merriment and togetherness into any home.

The Appeal of Family Pajamas

More than what they sound like, family pajamas spell unity, warmth, and togetherness-families simply adore them. They add an extra sense of belonging to Christmas or a birthday, for example, making the act of putting them on a tradition that is non-stop in nature. They are designed to be comfortable. The cozy flannel for the winter months and the lightweight cotton for those warmer months will keep one’s family comfortable while encouraging families to unwind together. Christmas pajamas are designed to appeal to any occasion, with the diversity of design, hence offering memories that may be carved as part and parcel of family life.

The Practicality of Family Pajamas

Although family pajamas are fun and festive, they can be very practical, too. Here’s why:

  1. Any-time-of-year use: Pajamas serve throughout the year, unlike some gifts that are useful only in certain seasons or occasions. Whether on a cold winter night or during the coolness of a summer evening, family pajamas are just that type of gift that will see frequent use.
  2. Investing in high-quality family pajamas is a smart choice. These pajamas are designed to be durable and long-lasting, even after multiple washes. Their comfort and look remain unaffected, making them a worthy investment that can be enjoyed for many years.
  3. Size inclusivity: One amazing thing about family PJs is that they come in all sizes, from babies to adults. This inclusivity makes sure no one is left out; thus, getting a perfect fit for all family members is pretty easy. Some even offer a customization option for you to add your personal touch, such as adding names or initials.
  4. Ease of buying: Family pajamas are easily available online platforms like PatPat and in-store and, hence, quite easy to purchase. Many retailers offer sets, including sizes, to fit all family members, so you won’t face problems regarding single-pair purchases. Moreover, they come in cheerful boxes or bags, which are quite easy to gift-wrap.

Why Family Pajamas Are Perfect for Every Occasion

Family pajamas are not just for the holidays; they make quite a wonderful gift for almost any time of the year. Let’s look at some of the occasions when family pajamas are perfectly given:

Christmas and Holiday Celebrations:

However, the most popular time to give family pajamas is during the holiday season. Christmas morning equates to unwrapping presents in pajamas, and matching sets add a layer of festivity. Whether one chooses a classic red and green theme or something quite whimsical, such as reindeer or snowflakes, family pajamas take the holiday spirit a notch higher.

Birthdays:

Family pajamas are an unusual yet thought-of birthday idea for kids. A set of matching family pajamas can make any birthday a little more special. Can you just imagine how happy a child would be on that big day of the year when Mom, Dad, brothers, and sisters all had the same jammies as they did? It’s simple, yet something that makes birthdays a little bit more special.

Mother’s Day and Father’s Day:

Family pajamas can be even more special when it comes to celebrating parents. One could give a set of family pajamas on Mother’s Day or Father’s Day. Such a gift shows gratitude for the family unit and provides an avenue for bonding with each other.

Family Reunions:

It can be a fun way for a family that doesn’t often get to see each other to remember a reunion. It could be summer vacation or a holiday gathering; matching pajamas will remind them of their time together. Matching PJs are also great ways to capture in pictures how wonderful and joyful it was.

Baby Showers and Newborn Gifts:

Of course, many people receive gifts for the baby when a new baby joins a family. Yet, family pajamas can be a great gift that includes everyone in your family, let alone any siblings who might feel jealous. A matching set for the whole family may help ease the transition and create a sense of unity as they welcome the newest member.

Anniversaries:

Not usually the traditional anniversary gifts, family pajamas can be a unique treat for families who love spending quality time with each other. Be it a wedding anniversary or an anniversary of an event that had special meaning; pajamas can prove to be one of those fun and memorable ways through which memories can be created.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Family Pajamas

Now that you’re convinced that family pajamas make the ultimate present, here’s how you can go ahead and choose the correct set for them:

  1. Material: The type of fabric used for the pajamas should be selected based on the climate and preference of the family. If one wants them to stay warm, then cotton is perfect, and for colder climates, fleece would be just fine.
  2. Sizing: Check the sizing twice using their size charts, and if unsure, go for a larger size to avoid discomfort.
  3. Think of the Occasion: Uniforms for Christmas would differ from when you attend a reunion; in this case, you can go for neutral ones.
  4. Look for Easy Care Options: Find out if the pajamas are machine-washable and durable enough to take regular washing.
  5. Read Reviews: The customer reviews ensure that the pajamas’ quality, fit, and comfort are guaranteed for purchase.
  6. Trusted Retailer: Always ensure that the family Christmas pajamas come from a retailer like PatPat with a good market reputation.

Conclusion

Family pajamas represent a mix of comfort, functionality, and fun. They unite families and provide ample opportunity to bond and create long-lasting memories. Be it a holiday or someone’s birthday; family pajamas are one such present that no family will dislike. And why not when one can get them personalized or customized for more charm? So next time you think about the perfect gift, remember how comfort and joy might be derived from a set of family pajamas.

A Review of Kejian Sun’s Seat Series, The Stillness, and Spring

Abbie Wilson
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A Review of Kejian Sun’s Seat Series, The Stillness, and Spring

Known for creating profound artistic statements from the simple and often overlooked aspects of life, Kejian Sun is an artist who draws inspiration from the everyday world. It’s like transforming ordinary things, like chairs, into vessels of human emotion, interaction, and memory. At the same time, he captures nature’s powerful cycle. Sun explores the complexities of human experience through his three series — Seat series, The Stillness, and Spring — revealing deeper layers of existence through both quiet stillness and chaotic transformation.

Sun’s Seat series is a collection of paintings that portray chairs as more than just functional objects. In Sun’s view, chairs are silent witnesses to human life, encapsulating solitude, presence, and absence. Each chair in this series has its own narrative, embedded in its very form. It is often overlooked objects in daily life, such as chairs, that become symbols of human interaction—capturing moments of waiting, conversing, and contemplating. Through his expert manipulation of light and shadow, Sun gives life to these chairs, allowing them to tell the stories of those who have sat upon them, the lives they’ve touched, and the emotions they’ve absorbed over time.

It’s different settings for Sun’s chairs, but it’s all about their quiet, powerful presence as silent observers. Each chair is carefully rendered, like a storyteller of fleeting moments. The weight of waiting is palpable in the way an empty chair seems to carry a heavy silence, while the echoes of past conversations linger in the soft shadows cast across its surface. As each chair symbolizes the human figure it once held and the emptiness left behind, the tension between presence and absence forms the heart of the series. This juxtaposition invites viewers to contemplate the deeper stories hidden beneath these seemingly mundane objects.

In The Stillness, the focus shifts to abstract representations of peace and serenity. Each piece is 12 cm x 12 cm and created in September 2019. The Stillness distills human presence into minimalist, abstract forms, unlike the Seat Series, which evokes human presence through objects. With muted colors and subtle light and shadow, Sun captures fleeting moments of tranquility to invite viewers to pause and take it all in.

As a visual meditation on calm, every piece in The Stillness is calming. Sun’s soft, abstract shapes and delicate contrasts create a sense of serenity, letting viewers dwell in quiet, reflective spaces we don’t notice in our busy lives. In order to create timeless art, he freezes ephemeral moments of peace. Throughout this series, Sun reminds us of the beauty of simplicity and stillness, qualities easily overlooked in today’s fast-paced world.

In stark contrast, Sun’s Spring series erupts with untamed, chaotic energy. Each 40cm x 40cm piece captures the violent rebirth of nature, rendering the renewal process through a bold interplay of color and texture. The vivid yellows and deep blues in the series symbolize the clash of forces that occurs as winter transitions into spring, where new life emerges from the decay of the past season.

It captures the unpredictable surge of growth and renewal in abstract forms in Spring. In these works, light and dark combine, blur, and dance across the canvas, depicting nature’s intense cycle of transformation. There is a strong emotional response to the visceral energy. Through the use of color, Sun emphasizes the contrast between life and decay, emphasizing how existence is cyclical.

With Spring, Sun explores the duality of renewal, where beauty and violence coexist in nature’s process of transformation. The series immerses viewers in an emotional landscape where the remnants of decay and the surge of new life exist in constant motion. In this sense, Spring is more than a celebration of rebirth; it’s a reflection on the power and intensity of change itself.

As a whole, these three series illustrate Kejian Sun’s remarkable ability to capture stillness and motion, quiet introspection and explosive energy. Sun transforms everyday objects into powerful symbols of the human experience in his Seat Series, turning chairs into fleeting moments’ storiestellers. In Stillness, abstract forms invite a deeper connection to simplicity, offering a serene space for reflection. And with Spring, Sun presents the raw, unpredictable energy of nature’s cycles, creating vivid representations of growth and decay.

Throughout Sun’s art, stillness and movement, presence and absence, decay and renewal are all inextricably linked to life’s complexity. Through his work, we find meaning in objects, moments, and cycles that shape our everyday lives. He explores these themes in a compelling way—one that sticks with you even after you walk away from the canvas. Art like his reminds us that there’s always something deeper to discover, even in the quiet moments.

The Benefits of a 6-Blade Razor: Why More Blades Can Mean a Better Shave

Our Culture Mag & Partners
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The Benefits of a 6-Blade Razor: Why More Blades Can Mean a Better Shave

When it comes to achieving a smooth and comfortable shave, the number of blades in your razor can make a significant difference. The advent of multi-blade razors, particularly those with six blades, has revolutionized the shaving experience. This article explores the advantages of using a 6-blade razor and how it can enhance your grooming routine.

Understanding Multi-Blade Razors

Multi-blade razors, such as those with six blades, are designed to offer a closer and more precise shave compared to traditional razors. Each blade in a multi-blade razor works together to lift and cut hair more effectively. The concept behind multi-blade technology is that multiple blades can reduce the need for repeated passes over the same area, which helps minimize irritation and achieve a smoother result.

The Mechanism of a 6-Blade Razor

A 6-blade razor is engineered to deliver a close shave by using multiple blades arranged in a specific configuration. Each blade is set at a different angle to ensure that hairs are cut cleanly and efficiently. The first blade lifts the hair, while subsequent blades cut it closer to the skin, reducing the likelihood of missed spots and providing a more thorough shave.

Enhanced Comfort and Reduced Irritation

One of the primary benefits of a 6-blade razor is the reduction in skin irritation. The multiple blades distribute the pressure more evenly across the skin, which can help to prevent common issues such as razor burn and nicks. The design of these razors allows for a more consistent and gentle shave, making them suitable for sensitive skin types.

Dollar Shave Club provides a range of grooming products, including their Club Series 6-Blade Razor. This razor is designed to deliver a close and comfortable shave with its six blades and advanced features. With options that cater to various needs, you can find a product that fits your preferences and enhances your grooming routine.

The Efficiency of Multiple Blades

Using a 6-blade razor can make your shaving routine more efficient. The design allows for fewer passes over the same area, which saves time and effort. This efficiency is especially beneficial for those with busy schedules or those who prefer a quick grooming routine without sacrificing quality.

The Role of Blade Spacing

The spacing between blades in a 6-blade razor is an important factor in its effectiveness. Proper blade spacing ensures that each blade can perform its function without interfering with the others. This design allows for a more precise and even shave, as each blade works in harmony to lift and cut hair with minimal resistance.

The Importance of Blade Quality

The quality of the blades in a 6-blade razor plays a crucial role in the overall shaving experience. High-quality blades are made from durable materials that maintain sharpness and performance over time. Investing in a razor with well-crafted blades can lead to a more comfortable shave and longer-lasting product.

Features to Look for in a 6-Blade Razor

When choosing a 6-blade razor, consider features such as a flexible head, ergonomic handle, and built-in lubricating strips. A flexible head allows the razor to contour to the curves of your face, providing a closer shave. An ergonomic handle ensures a comfortable grip, while lubricating strips help to reduce friction and enhance glide.

Comparing 6-Blade Razors to Other Multi-Blade Options

While a 6-blade razor offers several advantages, it’s helpful to compare it with other multi-blade options to determine the best fit for your needs. Razors with fewer blades, such as 3-blade or 4-blade models, may also provide a satisfactory shave for some users. Assessing factors like blade sharpness, handle design, and personal preferences can help you choose the ideal razor.

The Impact of Blade Maintenance

Maintaining your 6-blade razor is essential for ensuring its performance and longevity. Regular cleaning and proper storage can help prevent rust and maintain blade sharpness. Additionally, replacing the blades when they become dull is important for achieving optimal results and avoiding skin irritation.

Where to Find Quality 6-Blade Razors

If you’re looking for shaving essentials, a 6-blade razor might be a perfect addition to your grooming toolkit. Many brands offer high-quality razors with advanced features designed to enhance your shaving experience. By selecting a reputable product, you can enjoy the benefits of a closer and more comfortable shave.

Understanding the benefits of a 6-blade razor can help you make an informed decision about your shaving tools. By considering the features and advantages of multi-blade razors, you can improve your grooming routine and achieve a smoother, more enjoyable shave.

Navigating Tradition and Identity: Exploring the Work of Mingzhuo Zheng

Abbie Wilson
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Navigating Tradition and Identity: Exploring the Work of Mingzhuo Zheng

Zheng’s I Am Just Me explores identity, intimacy, and the difficulties marginalized individuals face. It is more than just photography when she portrays people who have experienced discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Her portraits are windows into experiences that are often marked by intolerance and hardship. The series stems from Zheng’s own struggle as a bisexual woman growing up in traditional East Asian families.

In Zheng’s own words, her subjects have allowed her access to their most vulnerable selves, allowing her to tell their stories through her lens. The strength of I Am Just Me lies in Zheng’s ability to transform her personal bond with these stories into an universal language of empathy and connection.

It is perhaps Zheng’s skillful use of light and shadow that creates subtle shifts in mood that reflect the inner emotional states of each subject that makes each portrait stand out. As she traverses the journey from confusion and isolation to self-acceptance, her visual language speaks to the stories of others as well as to her own. As a photographer, she captures the delicate process of forming your identity in a world filled with strict cultural norms, especially in cultures where tradition trumps individuality.

Having grown up in Chengdu, China, where same-sex attraction was a taboo and actively discouraged, Zheng experienced an internal conflict that resonates throughout her work. There seems to be a tension between visibility and invisibility, between strength and fragility in her subjects. As a consequence, Zheng engages not only in a dialogue about sexual identity, but also about our universal desire to be seen, understood, and accepted.

The way Zheng captures her subjects’ vulnerability while maintaining a strong artistic vision demonstrates her photographic prowess. Her portraits feel like intimate exchanges between her and her subjects, and viewers get to see them up close. That’s why Zheng builds trust with her subjects, which is key to her portraits being authentic and genuine.

Portrait #7

Zheng’s Portrait #7 image from the I Am Just Me series has garnered wide acclaim, earning her the LensCulture Critics’ Choice Award. The photograph is not only technically impressive but emotional as well. This particular image carries an almost mysterious feeling, heightened by the curling smoke surrounding the subject’s face, while much of the series exudes warmth and tenderness. The smoke introduces a sense of ambiguity and tension, setting it apart from the other portraits. This contrast prompts viewers to look deeper, to question the complexity of the subject’s inner world.

The work of Zheng goes beyond merely highlighting marginalized groups’ struggles. By creating a space for these individuals, she actively gives them visibility and dignity. She gives them the chance to tell their stories, making sure their strengths and resilience are acknowledged. By doing so, Zheng elevates their voices, making them feel like individuals with unique, valuable experiences, not just “others” in society.

Author Spotlight: Marieke Bigg, ‘A Scarab Where the Heart Should Be’

Sam Franzini
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Author Spotlight: Marieke Bigg, ‘A Scarab Where the Heart Should Be’

Jacky ‘The Beetle’ McKenzie is in the midst of a hard time. A rising ‘starchitect,’ her new utopian building designed to radicalize societal norms is receiving scorn from the public and from the press — a disdainful journalist even suggests she’s endangering women with her avant-garde ideas. At her helm is her husband and creative partner, Mark, and her girlfriend, Clarissa, who calms her down when the industry gets too insidious. But as Jacky barrels towards self-actualization, becoming the most streamlined version of herself, she must make a choice if the life of the public figure is truly for her. With cutting insight and an intricate and provocative character study, A Scarab Where the Heart Should Be presents an entirely new type of complicated woman.

Our Culture sat down to talk with Marieke Bigg about architecture, beetles, and self-fortification.

Congratulations on your new novel! How does it feel so close to being out?

It’s always a bit weird with publishing; everything takes so long. I wrote it probably two years ago, now. It feels a bit abstract, but it’ll be great once it’s out there and I can talk to people about it and get a response.

You’ve had three books come out over the past three years, though, right?

Yeah, I guess I’ve been writing a lot, nonfiction and fiction. I treat nonfiction as my day job, really, some of the research-focused writing. And novels in between. There’s been a lot going on.

Jacky is probably one of the most interesting characters of the year — she’s this no-nonsense architect completely determined to streamline her business and life. Where did the idea for her first come from?

It’s always so hard to trace it back, but I remember the idea for the story started with, I think I misread a line in the book I was reading, which kind of got me thinking. “She didn’t hear him say it was over,” or something. And it got me thinking about the type of person who would be so caught-up and self-involved, not being able to hear someone else, and Jacky flowed from that. 

Where did the architecture angle come from?

I’m a sociologist by training, so I think I’ve always enjoyed architecture as a visual expression of sociological ideas. I’ve always been interested in it anyway, and it’s quite visual, as well. It also suited Jacky — architecture has been this very masculine discipline about making your mark on the world. 

She’s delightfully radical — in one early interview with a journalist, she defends her choice to not put breastfeeding rooms in a university building to normalize women breastfeeding in public. In her words, “Transparency inspires self-respect. The space we occupy can improve us. In that way my buildings aren’t about people in that they show us how collectively, we can transcend ourselves, even when we surrender to the natural laws of space and time.” She makes a compelling case. What was it like occupying her mind, justifying these extreme ideas?

Surprisingly easy, really. I think it’s always helpful, and I enjoy in my writing taking a thought or way of being to its logical extreme. I did that a little bit in Waiting For Ted; Rosie, the protagonist, had a clear vision of how she wanted to live her life. I think it’s a similar thing with these kinds of views. I really enjoy going with them. It’s cathartic in a way, almost carnivalesque, turning everything upside-down and reveling in it. 

I love when two characters are arguing in a novel and there’s something to agree with on both sides.

That’s really interesting, you saying that makes me think about writing and how it gives you an opportunity to explore someone’s world on their own terms. I’m currently doing psychotherapy training, which is all about trying to understand and meet someone where they are. You discover more and more, which is that any worldview, absurd as it seems from the outside, has a logic, makes sense.

I do feel like there is some truth to her ruthlessness. When the journalist asks her if her architecture requires a level of social responsibility, Jacky responds in Darwinian fashion, saying that her buildings sort the strong from the weak. “That’s a natural law we all know well,” she says. “And those laws are timeless, and that’s what will make my buildings meaningful to societies to come, and they wouldn’t be if I pandered to trends.” Did you ever find yourself agreeing with her?

I think there’s a seductiveness to that way of thinking, and there’s a reason why people hop on board — it serves a privileged elite very well. That sort of egotistical, individualistic way of thinking. But I agree with her to the extent that it’s an artistic impulse we all have to create and manipulate our environments. That’s a calling we all have. But we mature and we learn to coexist. But it’s recognizing that impulse isn’t exclusive to evil or abnormal people, it’s a capacity we all have. And then we decide what to do with it. 

She signs up for Twitter to defend her buildings, and I think it’s the perfect place for someone so provocative. What was it like imagining how the public would react to her personality?

It was an interesting experiment, in a way. I felt her anxiety as I was doing that and it mirrors my own. I think I’m just figuring this out as I’m talking about it now, but how Twitter suits her very well. It’s just speaking into a void, which makes you very anxious. The responses are delayed and they’re anonymous. It’s this ambivalence — on the one hand it’s this perfect platform for her where she can express herself and be provocative, and on the other there’s this deep insecurity and need to be validated that I think unfolds as the story goes on, that leads her feeling anxious, lost, alone, empty. 

It’s interesting Jacky takes so willingly to the ‘Beetle’ moniker and even perfects her look so as to be more recognizable as this ‘starchitect,’ as they call her. Why do you think she enjoys being compared to a bug so much?

I think there’s a lot of deep-rooted self-hatred. And a lot of her character is a defense. She talks a lot about buildings, fortification, armor. I think that’s also the branding, the exaggerated beliefs do. They all protect her from the outside world, at the same time, she’s reaching out to it, because she wants intimacy, but she’s too afraid. 

The way you so easily enfold her into her own nature and the scientific process is so striking, in one chapter about how she’s an endangered species, you write, “[Jacky]’d had to birth a new world order that would welcome her kind, before she could think about populating the world with more of her.” What was your goal about writing about a woman’s body and place in the world this way?

I think not so consciously, but now that you’re talking about it, it was a kind of exploration for me as well, of this foreign object, of this woman who behaves in many ways, like a misogynistic man, really. But there’s also moments where she says things like that, like, “The world needs to change to accommodate me, I’m not going to pander to these expectations of women, to mother in a particular way.” Those are glimpses of something else and something true. It’s also a kind of irreverence. Women can be conflicted and confusing and there’s aspects of her you might relate to and aspects of her that are completely insane. 

At the beginning, Jacky is concerned with how other people can misinterpret her work, but by the end, she makes a grand statement to the public with a building and leaves that life. What do you think changed in her?

It’s this reluctant awareness, but this growing realization that she can’t go on living that way. There’s several points in the story where she’s incapacitated, reaches her physical extreme. But as a human she’s very isolated and she follows her way of being, and realizes it’s not conducive to life. Just reaching the apex of her vision and seeing emptiness in that.

I love that there’s a deep fascination with science, particularly natural selection, adaptability in one’s world, and beetles. There are chapters mixed into the narrative describing different beetles and how Jacky and her partners relate to them. Was there a lot of research going into the novel? Were beetles a hyperfixation?

Yeah, I’d say so. Artistically, I find them really amazing to look at. The more you learn about them, the more you see. It all felt very intuitive, Jacky as a beetle, her obsession with beetles. It felt like I could indulge that lightly maniacal interest myself. It was quite an iterative process — the beetle chapters came later, as I surrendered to the mania. 

As well as your novels, you have a PhD and your first nonfiction book, This Won’t Hurt, details misogyny in the medical industry. Do you feel like your fiction is in conversation with this kind of work or are they separate experiments?

I think more and more they’re in conversation. Definitely similar themes, settings. [Jacky] goes to an IVF clinic, and my PhD was on IVF. There are these obvious themes and areas of interest. My next nonfiction book is on psychiatry and I’ve been working more on mental health now. The insights bleed into the different types of writing I’m doing.

I was going to ask what you’re working on next — anything more with fiction as well?

Just coming to the end of psychiatry, but I’m working on more fiction, and hopefully there will be more to come.

You’re very busy!

Yeah, I also need a holiday, so I’m trying to slow it all down a bit.

A Scarab Where the Heart Should Be is out now.

The Future of Business Analytics with Data Science

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The Future of Business Analytics with Data Science

It’s all about data nowadays. Whether you want to make a big decision for your business or start a new project, analytics reports are what will point you in the right direction. Leveraging information should be your main priority.

People use analytics for many purposes. Someone entering a bet777 game, for example, will take advantage of the information they get to make the best strategy possible. How does data science apply to business analytics, though?

Technology has evolved so much that the future of business analytics seems very exciting. There are plenty of trends that we should watch out for, as they will point us toward a new era of gathering and managing information for our benefit.

What Does the Future of Business Analytics Have in Store?

What do we mean when we talk about business analytics? We refer to the process of analyzing data to get valuable insights. There are many business analytics techniques we can apply, including:

  • Data mining
  • Data collection
  • Data preparation
  • Data visualization
  • Data management
  • Data science

Data science, specifically, is changing the way how we treat information. It’s a technology that all business owners should keep in mind if they want to stay relevant in their markets.

Simply put, data science involves extracting insights from huge amounts of information. The methods you can use involve mathematics, statistics, programming, and more. You can use data science to turn information into valuable solutions.

Thanks to data science, people can extract special input from structured or unstructured information. This can give them an edge in many cases.

As you can see, data science has a lot in store for us, but what can we expect in the future? Currently, business analytics play a pivotal role in shaping a company. Modern techniques include predictive/prescriptive analysis and machine learning.

When you use business analytics, you can prepare for the future, come up with better strategies, and learn from mistakes.

Here’s when it gets fun, though. Technology has experienced a huge evolution over the past few years, so we now have some unique techniques to keep an eye out for:

Real-time Analytics

Getting access to information as quickly as possible is a priority for most companies. Most industries are facing a lot of competition, so being able to get and interpret data as fast as possible is crucial for success.

In such a fast-paced business environment, real-time analytics have the potential to become a game-changer. This process involves analyzing information as soon as it enters the system, giving businesses valuable insights right away.

One of the main benefits of this technology is that businesses will be able to make immediate decisions, which is crucial in times of crisis. This may also help them adapt to evolving customer preferences and market trends.

Businesses that have access to real-time analytics will have a much bigger advantage compared to those who don’t. There’s no doubt that the future of business analytics with data science will involve immediate analysis of information, giving people the tools to react fast.

Machine Learning and AI

Machine learning and AI are two of the main players when it comes to data science. They will play one of the biggest roles in business analytics over the following years, and many companies are already trying to adapt to these technologies.

Artificial intelligence involves the usage of computer systems to mimic the cognitive functions of the human mind. In other words, these systems have the ability to learn from experiences, solve problems, understand languages, and more.

Machine learning, on the other hand, has already been making a difference when it comes to data science. It’s a subset of AI, and it allows certain systems to learn and adapt under certain conditions. The main benefit of machine learning is that it doesn’t require people to explicitly program the system so that it can learn.

How do these technologies apply to business analytics, though? In a nutshell, both of them are used to go through huge chunks of data much faster, allowing people to identify hidden insights that they may not have been able to find on their own, at least not quickly.

AI and machine learning may also be used to automate analytical model building, providing businesses with a competitive edge. Being able to make data interpretations or predictions in real time without the need for human intervention can make all the difference for a business, and that’s what these technologies can achieve.

Simply put, machine learning and AI can make business analytics practices easier by automating most processes, allowing people to dedicate their focus to other important parts of their company while the systems take care of data.

Democratization

When we talk about data democratization, we’re referring to its accessibility. In business analytics, it’s crucial to make data accessible to not just scientists but also the rest of the team in an organization.

Thanks to advances in technology, most tools and platforms are much easier to manage, so employees at many skill levels can access and use data while they work. This makes business analytics much more comprehensive, allowing more people to collaborate and make data-driven decisions.

The Accessibility of Data and Business Analytics

Three components that are shaping the way we manage data are automation, information quality, and cloud-based solutions. They have the potential to make business analytics much more efficient regardless of the industry.

Most companies are moving their data infrastructure to cloud-based solutions, as they’re more convenient. Moreover, they’re placing their focus on quality data and automation, ensuring they can make better decisions when it’s necessary.

Data science is playing a significant role in analytics, and it will keep doing so for a long time. The more accessible data is, the better it’ll be for businesses wanting to succeed.

Bottom Line

It’s exciting to think about how technology will keep benefiting us in the future. However, we must also remember to keep our minds sharp and not rely completely on technology we don’t fully understand.

The key to success is to spend time learning as much as possible about these technologies, as this will allow us to use them for our benefit.

A Real Triumph: Australia Returns Home With a Record Number of Gold Medals

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A Real Triumph: Australia Returns Home With a Record Number of Gold Medals

Australia won its largest number of gold medals in the Summer Olympics in 2024. The team, which included outstanding performers in different fields of sports, improved previous performances by clinching the first positions in 18 events. This was mainly attributed to their success in swimming and track cycling events. The team even set a record for the speed of receiving medals, winning four golds in a 5-hour period. By the way, anyone can repeat their success in the speed of receiving gold thanks to the games on MelBet AU. The only difference is that you can pick up your reward not only in the form of medals but in any world currency.

Record-Breaking Performance in Paris

The success of Australia in the 2024 Olympics was due to the right investment and hard work of the athletes. In previous Olympic Games, Australia has been a great performer, especially in the 1956 Olympic Games held in Melbourne, where the country won 13 gold medals. The other high was in Sydney in 2000, when Australia clinched 16 gold medals. Most of these were in sporting activities in which they have always been strong, for example, swimming and cycling. Let’s take a look back at some of the most memorable Olympic Games for Australians:

  • 1956: Hosted the Melbourne Olympics
  • 2000: Memorable home advantage in Sydney
  • 2004: Athens brought swimming victories
  • 2012: Focus on track cycling
  • 2024: Record-breaking in Paris

Yes, this year will definitely go down in history, too. This legacy of success is based on the effective support of athletes, which will help them succeed at the world level.

Historical Olympic Successes

Australia has performed very well at the Olympics, especially in swimming, where they are always a force to reckon with. In Paris, the Australian swim team was able to maintain this trend by emerging with several gold medals in both individual and relay categories. Furthermore, on the cycling team, more medals were accrued through a good show in the track events. Swimming and athletics are two disciplines in which Australian athletes have always excelled, and this is evidence enough of the talent that they possess.

In general, Australians have a lot of talent – for the second Olympics in a row, they have won gold in skateboarding. So, if you are into sports betting, remember that the Australian team is a good choice. Looking for the best betting tools? Choose MelBet – it is one of the best bookmakers on the Australian market, which also offers online slots casino and a lot of other games. You will definitely not get bored there.

The Secret Behind the Success

Such success is evidence of good work at the state level. Several structures, like the Australian Institute of Sport, help with this respect by availing superior training amenities and coaches. This support has been instrumental in nurturing athletes who have the ability to perform in the Olympics. Another factor is that Australia pays attention to the sciences of sports and nutrition so that the athletes are in the best form. Notably, the country’s dedication to grassroots programs assists in talent search at a tender age and produces what could be future Olympic players.

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