#how to automate your business

[finnacecommands]

"Skyrocket Your Business Success: The Ultimate Guide to Leveraging ChatGPT for Maximum Impact!"

Let’s face it, running a business in 2024 is a bit like juggling flaming chainsaws while riding a unicycle on a tightrope over a tank full of hungry sharks (or maybe that’s just my Tuesday). There are a million things to do, a never-ending inbox, and enough marketing jargon to make your head spin.

Enter ChatGPT, the superhero with a cape made of words and a utility belt full of artificial intelligence. Now, I’m not saying it’s going to solve all your problems (although it can probably write a pretty convincing apology email to your angry supplier), but it can definitely be a valuable asset in your business arsenal.

What in the World is ChatGPT?

Imagine having a super-powered intern who never needs a coffee break, never complains about bad office lighting, and can whip up a catchy slogan faster than you can say “procrastination.” That’s kind of what ChatGPT is. It’s a large language model, which basically means it’s a computer program that’s really good at understanding and generating human language.

So, How Can This Super Intern Help My Business?

Here’s the fun part: In a surprising number of ways! Let’s break it down:

Stuck staring at a blank page for your next blog post or social media caption? ChatGPT can be your brainstorming buddy. Give it a few keywords or a sentence about your product, and it’ll churn out ideas, outlines, and even full drafts (although you might want to add your own personal touch). Just think of it as a way to overcome writer’s block without resorting to staring at cat videos for an hour (not that there’s anything wrong with that… maybe).

Need catchy headlines, product descriptions that sing, or email subject lines that get opened faster than a free pizza coupon? ChatGPT can be your secret weapon. It can help you craft compelling marketing messages that resonate with your target audience. You know, the kind that makes people say, “Wow, this company really gets me!”

We’ve all been there — dreading the never-ending stream of customer emails. ChatGPT can help you answer frequently asked questions, draft responses, and even power basic chatbots that can handle simple customer inquiries. This frees you up to focus on the more complex issues and, let’s be honest, avoid that feeling of wanting to hide under your desk whenever you see the email notification light blink.

Sometimes the best ideas come from the most unexpected places. ChatGPT can be your brainstorming partner, helping you generate new product ideas, marketing campaigns, or even solutions to your most pressing business challenges. Think of it as a way to tap into a wellspring of creativity without having to wear those goofy brainstorming hats (although, hey, if that gets your team going, who am I to judge?).

Wait a Minute, Isn’t This Just a Fancy Chatbot?

Well, not exactly. Chatbots are great for answering basic questions, but ChatGPT can do so much more. It can be creative, generate different writing styles, and even understand context. Think of it as the difference between a pre-programmed answering machine and a really helpful (and slightly sarcastic) assistant who can actually understand what you’re asking for.

Is There a Catch?

Of course, there’s always a catch (just like that time you bought those miracle weight-loss pills online). ChatGPT is still under development, so its outputs can sometimes be inaccurate or nonsensical. It’s also not a replacement for human creativity and critical thinking. You’ll still need to edit its work, make sure the information is accurate, and inject your own brand voice. But hey, that’s what makes you the boss, right?

So, How Do I Get Started with ChatGPT?

The good news is that ChatGPT is readily available online (with a free tier to test it out). There’s a bit of a learning curve, but there are plenty of resources and tutorials to help you get started.

The Final Word: Your Not-So-Secret Weapon Awaits

Look, ChatGPT isn’t going to magically solve all your business problems. But it can be a powerful tool to help you save time, boost creativity, and streamline your workflow. Do note that it can not completely replace human efforts. So, ditch the flaming chainsaws, ditch the unicycle, and maybe put the hungry sharks on hold for a bit. With Chat GPT by your side, you might just find yourself feeling a little less like a circus performer and a little more like a business rockstar. Just remember it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on ChatGPT

What is the cost of ChatGPT?

ChatGPT offers a free tier with limited features. They also have paid plans with more capabilities, depending on your needs.

Is ChatGPT safe to use?

Though generally secure, it’s vital to keep in mind that the data ChatGPT creates may not always be reliable. Verify information again and refrain from disclosing private information.

Will I lose my job to ChatGPT?

You are not being replaced by ChatGPT, so relax. It is a tool, not a replacement for your current employment, to help you operate more efficiently and quickly.

Is ChatGPT coder capable?

A programmer is still required even if ChatGPT can generate basic code snippets. It is incapable of handling complex coding tasks or understanding the logic behind the code.

Does ChatGPT support several languages?

Indeed! Languages can be translated by ChatGPT, which can also produce original text forms in a variety of languages.

Can personal projects be completed using ChatGPT?

Without a doubt! ChatGPT is a creative partner that can help you with anything from crafting a standout CV to coming up with ideas for your next book.

My tech skills are lacking. Can I continue using ChatGPT?

Although there is a learning curve, ChatGPT is quite user-friendly. Don’t worry, you can get started with a ton of online lessons and tools.

[learnwithchandeep]

How to Create and Sell Online Courses

The virtual getting to know industry is booming, and if you have know-how or capabilities to percentage, growing and selling online courses can be a profitable opportunity. Platforms like LearnWithChandeep.Com provide super guidance on how to monetize your know-how efficiently. Here’s how you could emerge as a successful path creator and make cash selling online courses.

1. Identify Your Niche and Audience

Before creating a course, determine your niche and target audience. Think approximately:

What talents or knowledge do you own that others would possibly find treasured?

Who will benefit the most from your route?

What trouble does your path clear up

For example, LearnWithChandeep.com offers specialized courses, each catering to a specific audience, such as Faceless Video Mastery Course, Instagram Growth & Monetization, and Business Growth Templates.

2. Plan and Structure Your Course

Once you’ve identified your niche, outline your course content. A successful course typically includes:

Introduction & Learning Objectives: Explain what students will gain.

Step-by-Step Modules: Break down complex topics into easy-to-digest lessons.

Engaging Multimedia: Use videos, PDFs, templates, and quizzes to enhance learning.

Actionable Assignments: Encourage students to apply what they’ve learned.

3. Create High-Quality Content

Course quality is crucial to success. Consider the following:

Video Content: Even if you don’t want to appear on camera, courses like Faceless Video Mastery teach how to create compelling content without showing your face.

Downloadable Resources: Offer worksheets, templates, and guides to add value.

Professional Audio & Visuals: Good lighting and clear audio improve engagement.

4. Choose the Right Platform

Decide where to host your course. You can use:

Self-Hosting: Build a course platform on your own website like LearnWithChandeep.com.

Marketplaces: Sell on platforms like Udemy or Teachable.

Social media & Email Marketing: Promote through Instagram, YouTube, and email lists.

5. Market and Sell Your Course

To maximize sales, you need a strong marketing strategy:

Use social media: Grow an audience and promote your course.

Leverage SEO: Optimize content for search engines.

Offer Discounts & Bonuses: Provide early-bird pricing or bonus content.

Engage with Your Students: Create a community through Q&A sessions or live webinars.

6. Scale and Automate for Passive Income

Once your course gains traction, you can:

Automate sales funnels with ads.

Bundle multiple courses for higher earnings.

Create membership plans for recurring revenue.

Contact Us

For expert guidance on creating and selling online courses, visit LearnWithChandeep.com or contact Sales@learnwithchandeep.com or 995-306-3642.

[youmakely]

Doing it all = burnout. 😵‍💫 Learn how to delegate smarter using freelancers + AI — and reclaim your focus! 🔹 #solopreneur #delegation #productivitytips #freelancers #aitools #businesstips

[noisybehemothslayer]

“Is your business ready for the Industry 4.0 shift? Discover how AI and ...

[mentorshelly]

Signs You’re Overdue for a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Overhaul in Your Small Business

Let’s be real—when you first started your business, you were the CEO, HR, marketing, admin, and janitor all in one. You did what you had to do to get things off the ground.But now your business is growing. You’re hiring. Delegating. Scaling.And things are slipping through the cracks. If your small business is running on outdated instructions, word-of-mouth training, or “this is how we’ve always…

[technologyequality]

Scaling with Integrity: How AI Helps You Grow Without Losing Your Soul (or Sanity)

Scaling with Integrity How AI Helps You Grow Without Losing Your Soul (or Sanity) Reality Check… growth isn’t always glamorous. Between chasing leads, handling deliverables, and wondering if you’ll ever sleep again, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning in your own success. That’s where AI steps in, not to replace you, but to help you scale with integrity. If your goal is to grow without…

[champstorymedia]

The Power of Automation: Streamlining Customer Engagement with CRM Tools

In today’s fast-paced business environment, maintaining effective customer engagement is crucial for sustainable growth and success. The power of automation, particularly through Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools, can transform how businesses interact with their clients, enhancing relationships and interactions considerably. By incorporating automation into customer engagement…

[insurance-brokers-india]

What are the next steps after obtaining an insurance broker license, and how can you generate potential leads using Mzapp CRM software?

Congratulations on securing your insurance broker license! The journey doesn’t end here; it’s just the beginning of building a successful insurance brokerage. Here’s how you can proceed and leverage Mzapp CRM software to find potential leads:

Steps After Getting Your Insurance Broker License

Understand Your Market: Research your target audience (individuals, businesses, or specific sectors).

Develop a Business Plan: Set goals for client acquisition, revenue, and operational processes.

Build a Network: Partner with insurance providers and attend industry events to establish your presence.

Create an Online Presence: Build a professional website and maintain active profiles on social platforms.

Offer Value-Added Services: Educate customers on policies, claims management, and risk assessments.

Using Mzapp CRM Software to Generate Leads

Lead Capture: Utilize Mzapp’s integrated forms and web tracking tools to capture inquiries from your website or social media.

Automated Follow-Ups: Set up personalized email and SMS follow-ups to nurture leads effectively.

Lead Scoring: Prioritize leads based on their interaction history, ensuring you focus on high-potential prospects.

Data-Driven Campaigns: Use analytics to identify what works and launch targeted campaigns.

Seamless Policy Management: Impress leads by showcasing how smoothly you manage policies and claims through Mzapp.

Why Choose Mzapp CRM?

Mzapp CRM simplifies lead management, streamlines operations, and provides insights into customer behavior, making it easier to convert prospects into loyal clients.

Learn more about how Mzapp can transform your insurance business here.

[sociocosmos]

SocioCosmos: Your One-Stop Shop for Twitter Growth

Are you looking to boost your Twitter presence and reach a wider audience? Look no further than SocioCosmos! We offer a range of affordable and effective solutions to help you grow your Twitter following, increase engagement, and drive real results.

Why Choose SocioCosmos?

High-Quality, Real Followers: We deliver real, active followers who are genuinely interested in your content.

Fast Delivery: Get instant results and start seeing a difference right away.

Secure and Reliable: Your information is safe with us.

24/7 Customer Support: Our dedicated support team is always available to assist you.

Affordable Packages: Choose a plan that fits your budget and needs.

Our Services:

Twitter Followers: Increase your social proof and credibility.

Twitter Likes: Boost your content’s visibility and engagement.

Twitter Retweets: Amplify your message and reach a wider audience.

Ready to Take Your Twitter to the Next Level?

Visit SocioCosmos today and start your journey to Twitter success!

[brenna]

why is my HSA sending me emails at 12:28 am on a saturday sunday? yeah, I'm awake, and you're the last people I want to hear from rn. smh

[intelisync]

2024 AI Trends: What to Expect and Why It Matters

The landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) in 2024 is set to be shaped by ten pivotal trends, including agentic AI, open-source AI, and AI-powered cybersecurity. Agentic AI will revolutionize workflows by autonomously handling complex tasks and adapting to dynamic environments, enhancing productivity and operational efficiency. Open-source AI fosters innovation and collaboration, leading to the development of more robust and versatile AI applications across various industries. AI-powered cybersecurity significantly improves threat detection and response times, bolstering organizational security against cyber threats.

Hyper automation leverages AI and robotic process automation (RPA) to automate end-to-end business processes, driving productivity and efficiency. Edge AI computing processes data locally, reducing latency and enabling real-time decision-making. In healthcare, AI enhances diagnostics, personalized treatments, and patient care, making medical services more accessible and efficient. Explainable AI ensures transparency and accountability, making AI decisions understandable and trustworthy, thereby building user confidence.

These AI trends underscore the transformative impact of AI on various sectors and the importance for businesses to stay informed and adaptive. AI-driven personalization, creativity, and sustainability initiatives present additional avenues for innovation and growth. To explore how AI can Learn more...

[empireexperience]

I Didn’t Feel Like Showing Up… So My AI Twin Did

Let me be honest. There are days I just don’t feel like showing up. Not because I’m lazy, or not committed—but because I’m tired. Or bloated. Or just mentally tapped out.And on those days, I used to ghost my audience. I’d miss posting. I’d skip stories. I’d feel guilty for “falling behind.” Until I found a way to show up without actually being on camera. Enter: The AI Twin Not some scary…

[bhawaybhalla]

Build Your Dream Website in 2024: Your Beginner's Guide to Launching Like a Pro (Even with ZERO Coding Experience!)

The internet is your oyster, and a website is your pearl. In 2024, having an online presence isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity, whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a passionate artist, or simply someone wanting to share your voice with the world. But the thought of building a website can feel daunting, especially for beginners. Fear not, intrepid explorer! This comprehensive guide will equip…

[julymusings]

OPPOSITES ATTRACT

because love is the stack of biographies on your nightstand with a bookmark near the end.

It’s no secret that Jason Todd loves to read.

More often than not, you can find him lounging on his couch during the day, or in bed before sleeping, with one hand resting behind his head and a paperback in the other. He reads everything— classical, romance, horror; you name it, he’s at least tried it. And there’s little you love more than wiggling your way into the space between him and the cushions, letting him lie his head in your lap so you can run your fingers through his hair while he reads. You’ve come to associate the smell of books with him; the rustic scent of old paper clings to his skin, is a permanent part of his apartment walls.

You were never much of a reader, but there’s something about the way he describes the stories to you. He eagerly retells the plots of his favorite novels; takes you to the plains of Hertfordshire and the hills of Switzerland. You don’t need to read his books to know the characters unequivocally, picture their faces, and hear their voices in your head. You tried to pursue it yourself, for him, because it’s something he loves, and you love him. But reading has never been your strong suit. It’s difficult to focus—you zoned out during audiobooks, the words didn’t make sense, and sometimes, it’s just plain boring. You were so determined at first, telling Jason how excited you were to read his favorite book. His genuine excitement warmed something inside you, but left another part hollow with dread— you could not disappoint him.

But it was hard. You’re not a reader, and you never have been. You really tried, resorting to more creative measures like SparkNotes summaries, fidget toys, reward systems, and on one hopeless day, an automated-voice summary recorded over a sped-up play through of Subway Surfers.

When you walked into his apartment this morning, praying that last night’s patrol was exhausting enough to push your promise to the back of his mind, the hopeful look on his face when he asked you how you liked the book sent your stomach plummeting down three floors.

You panicked.

Regurgitated the only line from the Subway Surfers summary that stuck with your brain. You should have known better, thinking you could successfully lie to a trained detective, someone whose life depends on reading body language and carrying out successful interrogations.

Now, spread out on the couch with a thick bandage around his ribs, he has a funny look on his face—a tiny crease between his eyebrows, his head cocked to the side like a puppy. You wring your hands together while fighting to keep the flat, pained smile on your face.

“You thought it was…” Jason’s eyes narrow, and the corner of his mouth quirks down. “Say that again, sweetheart?”

Your skin feels damp as you struggle to keep eye contact; a classic sign of suspicion— something Jason taught you.

You keep your voice even, fighting against your mouth’s urge to drag your smile down into a grimace. “It was very relevant to the current political climate. Very…poignant.”

“Poignant?” He raises his eyebrows, nodding. “What’s poignant about it?” His eyes glint under the dimmed apartment light, amusement coloring his features.

Your lips press together.

“Babe?” He prompts after you take too long to search for an answer.

“Hm?”

“The book?”

Jason slings one arm over the back of the couch, the other absentmindedly rubbing over his bandages. Your face burns.

After another few moments of silence, and your artificial eagerness locked into a stalemate with his goading smirk, Jason relents.

His hand thuds against his thigh, tapping it twice to beckon you to come closer from your seat at the other end of the couch. Reluctantly, you obey.

“Baby,” he says kindly. He pushes a strand of hair behind your ear. “It’s okay if you don’t like it.” 

You busy yourself with picking at a piece of lint on your sleeve.

“It’s…not that I don’t like it,” you say, finally. “I just can’t. Every time I try to sit down and read—and I really tried—it doesn’t work. I don’t know what it is.”

Jason smiles so warmly, it melts away all your worries. “You don’t have to read it just because I like it.”

Your lips purse into a pout. “But you were so excited when I asked to borrow it.”

“I was excited because you were excited. You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to.”

“But I do want to,” you groan, dropping your head onto his shoulder. He kisses the top of your head, and his lips stay there. “It’s your favorite, and it sounds so good when you talk about it. I want to know about the things you like. But I just— I can’t focus.”

You sigh into his shoulder. “I’m sorry,” you mumble.

He smiles into your hair. “It’s okay. Thank you for trying, though.”

Your response is a non-committal whine that gets muffled by his skin.

“Why don’t we try something else?” He asks.

You lift your head to look at him.

“Hand me the book?” Jason motions across the couch.

You reach for your bag, fishing out the worn, soft-cover novel, and gingerly place it in his hands, as if it were a delicate piece of crystal—to him, it probably is.

“Can I read to you?” Jason’s voice is soft, eyes gentle and forgiving.

You nod.

As he flips it open to the first page, you settle into his side. He begins to read;

“When I stepped out into the sunlight from the darkness of the movie house, I had only two things on my mind…”

His rocky, baritone voice reverberates through his body, humming against your skin.

This time, the words stick.

divider

hey guys. how y'all doing. i don't love how this turned out. it feels ooc and too short but i am having bad writer's block rn so i made myself write something and this is what i could manage, and it's better than nothing and was also not proofread sorry man idk what to tell you :/

It's common to write Jason x reader with a reader who also likes to read (myself included, it makes for a great meet cute/icebreaker/etc), but I wanted to write something for the girlies who don’t like reading too!! It fits for someone who either has trouble reading, or just doesn’t like it, whichever fits your fancy. Hope u enjoyed

also ofc i'm a jason jane austen fan truther but i do hc his fave being the outsiders. it just fits, i feel

quote is julia nicole camp from nyt tiny love stories <3

[mostlysignssomeportents]

Paying consumer debts is basically optional in the United States

The vast majority of America's debt collection targets $500-2,000 credit card debts. It is a filthy business, operated by lawless firms who hire unskilled workers drawn from the same economic background as their targets, who routinely and grotesquely flout the law, but only when it comes to the people with the least ability to pay.

America has fairly robust laws to protect debtors from sleazy debt-collection practices, notably the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which has been on the books since 1978. The FDCPA puts strict limits on the conduct of debt collectors, and offers real remedies to debtors when they are abused.

But for FDPCA provisions to be honored, they must be understood. The people who collect these debts are almost entirely untrained. The people they collected the debts from are likewise in the dark. The only specialized expertise debt-collection firms concern themselves with are a series of gotcha tricks and semi-automated legal shenanigans that let them take money they don't deserve from people who can't afford to pay it.

There's no better person to explain this dynamic than Patrick McKenzie, a finance and technology expert whose Bits About Money newsletter is absolutely essential reading. No one breaks down the internal operations of the finance sector like McKenzie. His latest edition, "Credit card debt collection," is a fantastic read:

https://www.bitsaboutmoney.com/archive/the-waste-stream-of-consumer-finance/

McKenzie describes how a debt collector who mistook him for a different PJ McKenzie and tried to shake him down for a couple hundred bucks, and how this launched him into a life as a volunteer advocate for debtors who were less equipped to defend themselves from collectors than he was.

McKenzie's conclusion is that "paying consumer debts is basically optional in the United States." If you stand on your rights (which requires that you know your rights), then you will quickly discover that debt collectors don't have – and can't get – the documentation needed to collect on whatever debts they think you owe (even if you really owe them).

The credit card companies are fully aware of this, and bank (literally) on the fact that "the vast majority of consumers, including those with the socioeconomic wherewithal to walk away from their debts, feel themselves morally bound and pay as agreed."

If you find yourself on the business end of a debt collector's harassment campaign, you can generally make it end simply by "carefully sending a series of letters invoking [your] rights under the FDCPA." The debt collector who receives these letters will have bought your debt at five cents on the dollar, and will simply write it off.

By contrast, the mere act of paying anything marks you out as substantially more likely to pay than nearly everyone else on their hit-list. Paying anything doesn't trigger forbearance, it invites a flood of harassing calls and letters, because you've demonstrated that you can be coerced into paying.

But while learning FDCPA rules isn't overly difficult, it's also beyond the wherewithal of the most distressed debtors (and people falsely accused of being debtors). McKenzie recounts that many of the people he helped were living under chaotic circumstances that put seemingly simple things "like writing letters and counting to 30 days" beyond their needs.

This means that the people best able to defend themselves against illegal shakedowns are less likely to be targeted. Instead, debt collectors husband their resources so they can use them "to do abusive and frequently illegal shakedowns of the people the legislation was meant to benefit."

Here's how this debt market works. If you become delinquent in meeting your credit card payments ("delinquent" has a flexible meaning that varies with each issuer), then your debt will be sold to a collector. It is packaged in part of a large spreadsheet – a CSV file – and likely sold to one of 10 large firms that control 75% of the industry.

The "mom and pops" who have the other quarter of the industry might also get your debt, but it's more likely that they'll buy it as a kind of tailings from one of the big guys, who package up the debts they couldn't collect on and sell them at even deeper discounts.

The people who make the calls are often barely better off than the people they're calling. They're minimally trained and required to work at a breakneck pace. Employee turnover is 75-100% annually: imagine the worst call center job in the world, and then make it worse, and make "success" into a moral injury, and you've got the debt-collector rank-and-file.

To improve the yield on this awful process, debt collection companies start by purging these spreadsheets of likely duds: dead people, people with very low credit-scores, and people who appear on a list of debtors who know their rights and are likely to stand on them (that's right, merely insisting on your rights can ensure that the entire debt-collection industry leaves you alone, forever).

The FDPCA gives you rights: for example, you have the right to verify the debt and see the contract you signed when you took it on. The debt collector who calls you almost certainly does not have that contract and can't get it. Your original lender might, but they stopped caring about your debt the minute they sold it to a debt-collector. Their own IT systems are baling-wire-and-spit Rube Goldberg machines that glue together the wheezing computers of all the companies they've bought over the last 25 years. Retrieving your paperwork is a nontrivial task, and the lender doesn't have any reason to perform it.

Debt collectors are bottom feeders. They are buying delinquent debts at 5 cents on the dollar and hoping to recover 8 percent of them; at 7 percent, they're losing money. They aren't "large, nationally scaled, hypercompetent operators" – they're shoestring operations that can only be viable if they hire unskilled workers and fail to train them.

They are subject to automatic damages for illegal behavior, but they still break the law all the time. As McKenzie writes, a debt collector will "commit three federal torts in a few minutes of talking to a debtor then follow up with a confirmation of the same in writing." A statement like "if you don’t pay me I will sue you and then Immigration will take notice of that and yank your green card" makes the requisite three violations: a false threat of legal action, a false statement of affiliation with a federal agency, and "a false alleged consequence for debt nonpayment not provided for in law."

If you know this, you can likely end the process right there. If you don't, buckle in. The one area that debt collectors invest heavily in is the automation that allows them to engage in high-intensity harassment. They use "predictive dialers" to make multiple calls at once, only connecting the collector to the calls that pick up. They will call you repeatedly. They'll call your family, something they're legally prohibited from doing except to get your contact info, but they'll do it anyway, betting that you'll scrape up $250 to keep them from harassing your mother.

These dialing systems are far better organized than any of the company's record keeping about what you owe. A company may sell your debt on and fail to keep track of it, with the effect that multiple collectors will call you about the same debt, and even paying off one of them will not stop the other.

Talking to these people is a bad idea, because the one area where collectors get sophisticated training is in emptying your bank account. If you consent to a "payment plan," they will use your account and routing info to start whacking your bank account, and your bank will let them do it, because the one part of your conversation they reliably record is this payment plan rigamarole. Sending a check won't help – they'll use the account info on the front of your check to undertake "demand debits" from your account, and backstop it with that recorded call.

Any agreement on your part to get on a payment plan transforms the old, low-value debt you incurred with your credit card into a brand new, high value debt that you owe to the bill collector. There's a good chance they'll sell this debt to another collector and take the lump sum – and then the new collector will commence a fresh round of harassment.

McKenzie says you should never talk to a debt collector. Make them put everything in writing. They are almost certain to lie to you and violate your rights, and a written record will help you prove it later. What's more, debt collection agencies just don't have the capacity or competence to engage in written correspondence. Tell them to put it in writing and there's a good chance they'll just give up and move on, hunting softer targets.

One other thing debt collectors due is robo-sue their targets, bulk-filing boilerplate suits against debtors, real and imaginary. If you don't show up for court (which is what usually happens), they'll get a default judgment, and with it, the legal right to raid your bank account and your paycheck. That, in turn, is an asset that, once again, the debt collector can sell to an even scummier bottom-feeder, pocketing a lump sum.

McKenzie doesn't know what will fix this. But Michael Hudson, a renowned scholar of the debt practices of antiquity, has some ideas. Hudson has written eloquently and persuasively about the longstanding practice of jubilee, in which all debts were periodically wiped clean (say, whenever a new king took the throne, or once per generation):

https://pluralistic.net/2020/03/24/grandparents-optional-party/#jubilee

Hudson's core maxim is that "debt's that can't be paid won't be paid." The productive economy will have need for credit to secure the inputs to their processes. Farmers need to borrow every year for labor, seed and fertilizer. If all goes according to plan, the producer pays off the lender after the production is done and the goods are sold.

But even the most competent producer will eventually find themselves unable to pay. The best-prepared farmer can't save every harvest from blight, hailstorms or fire. When the producer can't pay the creditor, they go a little deeper into debt. That debt accumulates, getting worse with interest and with each bad beat.

Run this process long enough and the entire productive economy will be captive to lenders, who will be able to direct production for follies and fripperies. Farmers stop producing the food the people need so they can devote their land to ornamental flowers for creditors' tables. Left to themselves, credit markets produce hereditary castes of lenders and debtors, with lenders exercising ever-more power over debtors.

This is socially destabilizing; you can feel it in McKenzie's eloquent, barely controlled rage at the hopeless structural knot that produces the abusive and predatory debt industry. Hudson's claim is that the rulers of antiquity knew this – and that we forgot it. Jubilee was key to producing long term political stability. Take away Jubilee and civilizations collapse:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/07/08/jubilant/#construire-des-passerelles

Debts that can't be paid won't be paid. Debt collectors know this. It's irrefutable. The point of debt markets isn't to ensure that debts are discharged – it's to ensure that every penny the hereditary debtor class has is transferred to the creditor class, at the hands of their fellow debtors.

In her 2021 Paris Review article "America's Dead Souls," Molly McGhee gives a haunting, wrenching account of the debts her parents incurred and the harassment they endured:

https://www.theparisreview.org/blog/2021/05/17/americas-dead-souls/

After I published on it, many readers wrote in disbelief, insisting that the debt collection practices McGhee described were illegal:

https://pluralistic.net/2021/05/19/zombie-debt/#damnation

And they are illegal. But debt collection is a trade founded on lawlessness, and its core competence is to identify and target people who can't invoke the law in their own defense.

Going to Defcon this weekend? I’m giving a keynote, “An Audacious Plan to Halt the Internet’s Enshittification and Throw it Into Reverse,” today (Aug 12) at 12:30pm, followed by a book signing at the No Starch Press booth at 2:30pm!

https://info.defcon.org/event/?id=50826

I’m kickstarting the audiobook for “The Internet Con: How To Seize the Means of Computation,” a Big Tech disassembly manual to disenshittify the web and bring back the old, good internet. It’s a DRM-free book, which means Audible won’t carry it, so this crowdfunder is essential. Back now to get the audio, Verso hardcover and ebook:

http://seizethemeansofcomputation.org

If you’d like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here’s a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/08/12/do-not-pay/#fair-debt-collection-practices-act

[onmyyan]

Ain't no sunshine

Chapter 4

A/n: love this series, fem reader, yandere themes, platonic yandere Batfamily

Taglist: @uniquecutie-puffs @starsdotalk @ghostdoodlen @nickey-diano @76lonelyspoons @m3vl0vesu @uknowimdumb

"What's this about Gordon?" Damian asks after arriving in the dining room, he was perplexed by her message, what on earth would they need to speak about you of all people?

"(Y/n) moved out." Barbara says biting the bullet.

There was a moment of silence as her words registered before chaos broke out.

"What do you mean moved out?" Dick asks putting down the bagel he was eating his eyes held disbelief, "I mean I just checked her room and she's gone." Barbara says making his stomach lurch.

"We missed her birthday." Tim speaks suddenly realizing, his mind working a mile a minute. Jason curses under his breath at the revelation, how could he be such an idiot?

"You're wrong she wouldn't leave like that." Dick shook his head, the thought of you simply disappearing sent a wave of deep-seated unease through the family, and something else, something much darker had been born in that moment within each of them.

"Alfred confirmed it." Barbara says softly trying not to upset Dick further than he was.

Cass stood still before signing, "How could we not have noticed?"

Damian having enough of the conversation pulled out his phone calling your number, only to be met with the same answer Barbara got when she tried, his brows furrowed as the automated voice told him the number was disconnected. "Her phone's off." He speaks a pit forming in his stomach,

The Manor was quieter than usual.

That's the first thing Bruce notices when he wakes up that morning, an almost empty quiet filled the halls as he went from his bedroom to the study, he couldn't put his finger on what it was exactly and this bothered him to no end.

Alfred stood diligently by the marble counter top waiting for Bruce's instructions, "Good morning Alfred."

"Master Bruce." Alfred greeted him simply, rather curt for the old man, and Bruce notices this immediately, his mind racing on what he could have done to upset the man. "Is something wrong Alfred?"

"To be the world's greatest detective you can be incredibly dense." Alfred served him his coffee without another word and made Bruce feel like a child being scolded for something.

It wasn't until he walked by your room did his senses go off, it was much too quiet in there, knocking softly he found the door opening from the slightest touch. Alarm bells immediately start going off at just how empty it is, how void of life. He rushed downstairs, searching for Alfred to question him, when he saw his whole family gathered in the dining room.

They stare at him, all with that deer in a headlight look, "What?" He asks knowing something was up.

"(Y/n)'s gone." Dick speaks up, biting at his thumb, "And we missed her birthday." Jason adds on his guilt making his shoulders slump inward.

Bruce looks over to Alfred as if to confirm what he was told, the older man simply nods.

Meanwhile on the other side of Gotham, you're completely unaware of the chaos your absence is causing. Too busy enjoying your new life.

Bruce went to the cave immediately, checking the cameras for your form, he searched through a week of footage before he saw your graceful exit from the manor. A week. A fucking week you'd been gone and your own father hadn't noticed.

Bruce had felt like a true failure only a handful of times in his life, losing Jason, and now, you.

Only this time there was no Joker to blame, it was him. His fault his daughter felt the need to disappear without so much as a goodbye. The years of ignoring your presence simply because you were his 'easy child' the one he never had to worry about, the one who never made waves, come crashing down upon him, he rests his head on his hands, eyes never leaving the screen. "What have I done?" He speaks lowly, mind reeling from the shame of his inaction.

His blue eyes hardened at the sight of you on the screen, he could fix this, couldn't he? He just needed a second chance, he'd show you the love you deserved, the nurturing you needed, he didn't care that you were a legal adult now, (he winces at the thought of forgetting such an important birthday, he'd throw you the party of all parties once he got you home, he swore it.) you were his daughter, his youngest daughter, and you needed him no matter what you thought.

Dick Grayson prided himself on many things, one of which being his bond with his family, so to be faced with the reality that he wasn't the best big brother around, kind of shatters him. He refused to accept the fact that his, along with everyone else's actions, lead to your choice to abandon them, instead he reasoned, you were feeling rebellious, youthful energy and all that, he was sure once you got this out of your system you'd be right back where you belonged. Where he could keep an eye on you, a proper eye this time.

Jason fumes silent, pacing the kitchen, he feels like a cat is clawing at his skin from the inside, unable to do anything with his pent up frustration he grips the counter top hard enough for his knuckles to turn white. He hated himself right now, hated how garbage he felt, you were only eighteen, all on your lonesome in a city like Gotham? It was enough to set the hairs on his neck on edge.

Tim was busy on his tablet, he was already searching the city's CCTV cameras for any trace of you, his fingers working so fast they cramped, sweat drips down his brow as he searched, unable to tear himself away from his task. He felt maybe just maybe if he found you, he could begin to make up for how shitty he'd treated you, begin to open up to you in the way you'd always wanted. He needed to find you, and based on the usually composed family's obvious panic, it needed to be fast.

Barbara busied herself with rummaging through your empty room for anything she could use to find you, if she just had the chance to explain herself, she's sure you'd understand, sure you'd look at her with that expression you had when you were younger, like she was your personal hero.

Cassandra finds herself staring out at the distant view of Gotham, her hands twitching at her sides as she struggles not to take action, sure she didn't have a bond with you like she did with the others but she still cared for you, from a distance, she felt it was safer as you were the only civilian in the family. A choice she thinks now was a mistake. Maybe if she'd let her walls down a little more, you'd have confided in her instead of leaving.

Damian, in his rage, wasted no time heading to the cave to suit up, there he found his Father, still leaning over the computer table. "What are you doing?" Bruce asks barley looking away from the screen. "What do you think? Going to find that idiot before she gets herself killed." He seethes yanking on his tactical gloves.

"Damian -"

"How dare she leave us- we are a family." He spits the word out like it's a curse, "You don't leave your family." He reiterates slamming his hands into the table holding various gadgets. "I'm going to find that fool and drag her back here." He promised.

"Just hold on for a moment." Bruce stands walking over to his son to put a comforting hand on his shoulder, "We have no idea where she is, let us do some recon. Tim will find her address in no time, if she's still in Gotham we'll find her within the week."

Damian hesitantly agreed to his father's reasoning.

It takes them a week to find you, you were very good at hiding your tracks, using only cash, staying in shady areas because they weren't monitored, it's only when you post a selfie with some new friends do they lock your location down.

Tim took five minutes to himself to stare at the photo before alerting the family, he found it after all, he felt entitled to it, to the joy on your face, the other people in the picture made it easier to find you, first he found their names, then their addresses and used that along with the small bits of background he could see to triangulate your new address.

He'd never seen that look on your face, it was a casual cocky sort of grin, one that said you were genuinely enjoying yourself. He couldn't fathom how you were so happy without them, it sort of hurt his feelings, but at the same time he needed to see more of that smile, see what other expressions you made, he'd only ever seen that sad dejected look on your face, he huffs to himself, saving the picture for himself before sending the info to the group chat.

Bruce decided to let one of his kids do the interacting with you, feeling too ashamed to face you yet, he sends Dick, knowing you once looked up to him.

You're three hours into a horror movie marathon, courtesy of the box TV you stole off the back of a moving truck, when someone knocks at your door.

You don't pause the movie, using it as cover to tip toe towards the door, sure it was still early in the night, but everything was dangerous in Gotham.

You don't say a word, sneakily looking through the grimey peephole all you can make out is a tall dark haired man.

He knocks again causing you to flinch. Swiping knife out the drawer, you hide it behind your back before swinging open the door expecting the people you'd stolen the TV from or maybe one of the thugs you'd beaten black and blue, not Dick Grayson.

"Hey little bird." He greets like an old time friend, not the man who'd ignored you your entire relationship.

"How the fuck- what are you doing here?" You sigh revealing the knife as you rest your hand on your hip, exasperated by his mere presence. He eyes the knife before laughing, "I like the energy, good call living in this neighborhood." He invites himself inside, scrutinizing your apartment, a deep sigh leaving his lips, "You shouldn't be living like this-"

"Hold the fuck on." You point the knife at him accusingly, "You didn't know I existed a week ago, now you barge into my home," you emphasize with another point, "shit all over it and start lecturing me about how I should live?" You stare at him like he's grown another head before laughing, he friend stepping closer, "I'm ...I'm sorry, I know I forgot your birthday - we forgot, but you didn't need to run away-"

"I didn't run from shit." Crossing your arms, "I'm an adult, I moved out." You say pointedly.

"Be that as it may- you should have said something, do you have any idea how worried we've been?" He pleads, brows furrowed, "I know you're mad, you've every right to be, but this isn't safe." He gestures to your apartment. "I walked past a drug deal on the way up here ya know." He chides like he's scolding s child.

"Come back to the manor." He says softly, stepping closer once more, until he could touch your shoulder, "no need to leave the nest so soon." You stare at his hand, then him, before pointing the knife at him, your hand steady,

"Get the fuck outta my house."

Dick leaves reluctantly, he was determined to bring you home, thought you'd jump in his arms for a hug once he showed up, but you didn't, you looked at him with disgust, anger, and a hint of fear, he hated it. He wanted you to look up at him like the big brother he was, not like your enemy.

You're panting after the encounter, knife clattering to the ground, you follow shortly after, collapsing as your mind tried to process the whirlwind of emotions coursing through you.

It was a storm, so you latched on to the one feeling that would anchor you, rage.

You don't sleep that night. And it's a good thing because Damian is breaking through your window lock like it was the easiest thing, he enters your home, face deadset in a glare. "You left the manor for this shit hole?" He almost laughs, his hand on his sword makes you incredibly nervous. "What's it matter to you? Thought you'd be thrilled." You roll your eyes, too exhausted to deal with another one of them in such a short time period.

"You've disrupted the natural flow in the manor with this little stunt." He seethes, "I'm going to restore it." He states as if speaking a fact. "How prey tell do you intend on doing that, you massive twat?" He simply smirks before looking behind you, you turn around and see Jason leaning against the wall, his red hood mask on, obstructing his facial expression, making him all the more unnerving.

"You're a long way from home." Jason says kicking off the wall, moving to hover behind you, "Why are you here?! Okay I'm officially over this reunion, out." You point to the window they entered from.

"Oh we're leaving, just not without you." Jason chimes up his hand hovering over his guns, fingers twitching.

To your defense, you did try and run, but it was no use, they were on you faster than you could process, a sweet smelling cloth is pressed to your mouth, and as much as you fight it, eventually you need to breathe, it takes one good inhale for the chloroform to kick in, you slump in someone's hold you're unsure of which one and your world fades to black.

I