Author: Guest Blogger

  • New Wearable Tech? What are Wearables?

    New Wearable Tech? What are Wearables?

    This is a guest post by Zoe Cohen.

    Wearables, or wearable technology, is exactly what it sounds like. But while some people might think they’re gimmicky or only for fitness, they’re actually well worth knowing about. So set aside your skepticism for a moment, and we’ll answer the question “what are wearables?” in depth so you can be up to date on the latest tech!

    In this day and age of ever-increasing technology use, it’s only natural that technology would make the leap from something we bear to something we wear. I’m sure you’ve heard of the Fitbit and the Apple watch, but you might not have heard of wearable tech jewelry and clothing. This article will get into all of that and some even crazier wearables you might not have heard of or even imagined.

    New Wearable Tech

    Just to clarify, when we say wearables, we’re not referring to headphones or Bluetooth devices that redirect calls. Though these are technically wearable technology, we are referring more to tech that picks up information about the wearer and transmits it outwards, usually to the wearer’s cell phone or the cloud. This isn’t a steadfast definition, and you’ll definitely see exceptions, but it’s the best we have to clarify between Bluetooth tech and wearable tech.

    When answering the question of “what are wearables?” the first piece of tech that comes to mind are the ubiquitous fitness trackers. These accessories track your steps, activity level, heartrate, sleeping patterns, and more through the use of biosensors. Some just record results, but more and more are analyzing the collected data to illuminate your trends and recommend future courses of action. The most well-known trackers rest lightly around your wrist, but there is an increasing market for wearable jewelry, especially rings.

    More and more wearables these days execute all of the above functions but then also connect with your cell phone to deliver notifications to you. The most famous example of this is the Apple watch. With these, you don’t have to fish around for your phone in order to see important information and notifications – they show up right on the tiny screen on your wrist. Text messages, e-mails, Twitter notifications, and a whole slew of customizable information will be displayed on your smartwatch, allowing you to keep your phone tucked conveniently away without missing out on information. Simpler wearables might just subtly vibrate to alert you to notifications without actually displaying them, allowing for even more discretion when you’re in a meeting or at lunch with a friend.

    Future of Wearables

    All of the above examples are fairly mainstream and widely accepted at this point. But you may not have heard of wearable tech clothing. The latest newsworthy example is a hat that measures the movement of truckers’ heads to determine whether they’re falling asleep on the road. Other companies are producing sports bras, yoga pants, and even denim jackets that measure all kinds of biological functions and/or allow you control over your devices. This is meant to be the latest trend, but so far the industry has been flagging a bit. We’ll see what the future holds.

    An even deeper dive, however, takes us into the realm of implantables, which, again, are exactly what they sound like. Some are already well-known and have been around for years, such as cochlear implants for the hearing impaired or pacemakers for those with weak hearts. But even people without medical situations are getting implanted with microchips that allow them to pay for purchases without needing a wallet, log into accounts without passwords, and even open doors (in the case of one company that is offering to implant these chips in their employees).

    Whats Wearable Tech & What are Wearables

     

    Conclusion

    To keep it short and sweet, we didn’t go into all of the implications that wearables bring with them, but hopefully you now have an answer to the question “what are wearables?” plus some ideas of what they are and what they may mean for the future. Looking for good wearable tech and don’t want to waste time, then check out: popular wearables for men & women.

  • Best New Tips for Blogging

    Best New Tips for Blogging

    It looks like you’re interested in starting a lifestyle blog.

    Since you’ve already hammered out what it is you want to write about, here are some tips to really make your lifestyle blog stand out and shine!

    New Tips for Blogging

    When you’re writing blog posts, try to really lay your emotions bare and put them in your posts. Readers respond to real emotion, whether it’s something you’re excited about or something you’re upset about. But even if you choose not to write a blog all about your life, or even if you want a little more privacy, try to write about something you’re passionate about.

    This will not only make your writing job much easier, but it will grab readers and show them why they should be passionate about that topic as well.


    Introduction to Blogging

    Create several social media accounts that are linked to your lifestyle blog niche and be sure to consistently post updates and engagement with your growing audience. You might find that some potential readers will be drawn in by your Instagram feed way before they’re interested in reading your blog. But enough solid, high-quality posts on your Instagram will win them over and turn them into devoted readers.

    Another way to increase visibility is to befriend other bloggers. It’s a supportive and engaging community, and if you feature someone’s blog or post, you may find that they’ll return the favor, introducing you to a whole new set of readers.

    Be Transparent

    Don’t try to trick readers or pull a fast one on them. If you are being sponsored to write a post, it’s much better, in the long run, to be honest, and upfront about it. If you’re worried readers won’t respond well to a sponsored post, you could write about why you decided to accept sponsorship.

    It would also be in your best interests to make sure that it is a quality post, sponsored or not so that readers will take value out of it even if they’re not interested in the product. If you try to trick readers and they find out later, their sense of betrayal will be strong enough to completely ditch your blog without a second thought. Blogging communities are based on trust, and you need to be careful to cultivate and maintain that.

    Best Days to Blog

    Readers like to know what to expect, and they won’t know what to expect if you just blog whenever you feel like it! Chances are there will be some occasions where you just don’t feel like blogging, but consistency is key.

    Usually, the best days to blog will depend on your niche. The usual good times are between 6 – 9 pm. So read your data and make a schedule (even if it’s just “twice a week,” any two days of the week) and keep to it so that readers know when they will receive new content and know they can depend on you.

    Blog Design Matters

    Your lifestyle blog is an online representation of you and your brand, and it’s important that you represent yourself well. Even if your writing is stellar, if your website design and layout and your photos aren’t up to snuff, it will reflect poorly on you.

    Also, people like things that are aesthetically pleasing and are much more likely to read your blog (and trust you) if it all looks good.

    Friendly Blogging

    I know I said to write what you’re passionate about and that sometimes you’re passionately angry about something, but stop and take stock for a moment before posting it on your blog.

    If, after your head clears, it seems like a productive thing to write about and bring attention to (a company mistreating workers, a social cause you care about that’s being threatened), write about it in a measured and balanced way. If it’s not in line with what you usually write about, however, keep in mind that your readers might have different stances than you on these topics, and speaking up might lose you some followers.

    People come to your blog for lifestyle tips, not politics. And absolutely never say something negative about another person or blog. That will just start a beef that will spin out of control, bring negativity to your blog, and drive readers away. Stay positive and at the very least, polite, about other people.

    Conclusion

    If you want to really succeed with your lifestyle blog, you have to know what works and what doesn’t work. To do this, pay attention to how readers respond to certain posts. If they like certain posts, do more of that. If there’s less response (or worse, a negative response) to another post, try to figure out what about it isn’t working so you can avoid that in the future.

    Another way to gain more insight is to read other people’s blogs, especially really popular ones. See what they do different or better than you, and figure out how you can learn from that, internalize it, and make it your own.

    Related: Finding Your Lifestyle Blog Topic

  • Homemade Secret Santa Gifts

    Homemade Secret Santa Gifts

    I remember all of the homemade Secret Santa gifts I made and received, as a child I complained about those gifts. I wanted something that I could play with for a few weeks only to leave it somewhere and forget about it.

    The holidays always have me thinking about the past, thinking about those simpler days making gifts for family members. Funny thing, those homemade Christmas gifts are the gifts that left the best memories. Cheesy but so true!

    Homemade Secret Santa Gifts

    Now whenever I want to make my holiday gifts more personalized (i.e., just don’t have the funds to buy something nice for everybody!), I always spend ages trawling through DIY gift guides. Not only does this take a long time, but I rarely find ideas that look decent and like something people would want to receive (harsh I know, but I’m just being honest with you guys).

    That’s why I’ve done all the work for you, so you just have to look in one place – here! In compiling this homemade Secret Santa gifts list, we’ve attempted to find simple DIY gifts that are not only feasible, affordable, and attractive, but also versatile. It is possible to create gifts without overspending.

    I hope these Secret Santa gift ideas can be given to any type of person and personalized for that handmade (but not frumpy!) feel.

    Tasty Gifts

    One of the only homemade Secret Santa gifts that never fails is food.

    Food is always a great homemade gift, but I tried to choose gifts that felt a little more personal and thoughtful than just handing someone a cookie tin or a bottle of wine.

    This spice rub gift set may seem a bit of an odd gift, but it’s a cook’s (or someone with no prowess in the kitchen’s) best friend. It’s perfect to rub on any kind of meat, poultry, or seafood for instant, effortless flavor. Plus it includes a few variations depending on what cuisine you want to go for. Buy these spices in bulk, mix up a huge batch of this rub, and place them in a nice container for a cost-effective gift for everyone on your list!

    Another great option is this gourmet cookie-in-a-jar gift – everyone is so saturated with sweets around the holidays that making these treats on your own time is a gift in and of itself. With just a few wet ingredients, these brownies will come together quickly, and be sure to delight!

    Chalkboard Gifts

    I don’t know what it is about that chalkboard paint patina, but it just looks so classy! If your only experience with it is chalkboards in school, take a look at any hipster store anywhere, and you’ll see what I mean.

    You can apply chalkboard paint to anything! Here is an idea for a chalkboard serving tray (you can label your cheeses or write tasting notes about wines), and here’s one for just a straight-up chalkboard.

    But really, the sky’s the limit here. You can paint flower pots with chalkboard paint for plant identification or a towel rack with a backboard so you can keep whose towels are whose straight. This homemade gift definitely won’t let you down and will be so much fun for both you and the recipient!

    Ceramics Gifts

    Don’t worry, you don’t have to have an MFA or extensive experience as a ceramicist for this next one. This decorated tea set was bought and constructed, and all the creator had to do was buy a cheap ceramic pen and decorate it! Once again, don’t feel limited by the tutorial – you can let your mind run wild with ceramics you can decorate – plates, mugs, ceramic trays (for holding odds and ends), flower pots – the list goes on. You also don’t have to stick to the cutesy drawings from the tutorial. This is what makes it perfect for personalization.

    Maybe you could draw the House Stark sigil or the Batman logo or a Super Mario game level. If you feel a bit iffy about your drawing skills, another solid option would be these customized photo coasters. Snag some photos of your friend’s Instagram or find some old forgotten photos of vacations or birthdays past.

    Again, you can also veer off into pop culture for a project that would be way cheaper than official merchandise coasters. These are easier than they look, and the tiles are so cheap! So if you decide to add some ceramic to your homemade Christmas gifts, the personalized aspect will make them extra special.

    Conclusion

    Now that you have some awesome ideas for your homemade Christmas gifts, I just want to leave you with one more piece of advice – presentation is everything. So don’t forget to put some effort into the gift wrapping! Enjoy the holiday season, and go wow some gift recipients!

  • Most Expensive Funko Pop: The Priciest Collectibles

    Most Expensive Funko Pop: The Priciest Collectibles

    I’ve always been intrigued by the world of Funko Pop collectibles, especially when it comes to the most expensive and exclusive ones. As an avid collector, it’s fascinating to see how some of these figures have gained massive attention and skyrocketing values over the years. In this article, we will explore the world of the most expensive Funko Pop collectibles and what makes them so sought after by collectors around the globe.

    The Funko Pop craze began back in 2010 when the company first launched its line of vinyl figures resembling popular culture icons. Since then, the growing fanbase has developed into an incredible community of collectors who take great pride in finding those rare and exclusive pieces. The exclusivity factor plays a huge role in driving up the value and demand for these collectibles in the market.

    Of course, a range of factors can impact a Funko Pop’s value, from limited availability to exclusive event releases. As a collector, it’s essential to understand these factors that play into a figure’s worth and appreciate the uniqueness of the most expensive Funko Pops. So, let’s dive in and discover the fascinating stories behind some of these exclusive figures in the world of Funko Pop collectibles.

    Understanding the Value of Funko Pops

    As a collector, I have often wondered what contributes to the value of a Funko Pop. While there are countless Funko Pops available at an affordable price, a select few are known to be extremely valuable. In fact, the most expensive Funko Pops have been sold for thousands of dollars. So, what makes these particular figures so valuable?

    One key factor that drives the value of a Funko Pop is rarity. Limited edition figures, chase variants, and convention exclusives are typically highly sought-after because of their low production numbers. More often than not, these Pops are available for a limited time or at select events, making it harder for collectors to obtain them, and thus, driving up their value.

    Another important aspect is the condition of a Funko Pop. Collectors place great emphasis on the condition of the box and figure itself, as it can significantly impact the value. A pristine, unopened box with the figure in mint condition will fetch a higher price than a damaged box or a Pop with visible flaws.

    Demand also plays a significant role in determining a Pop’s value. Collectible figures of iconic characters from popular movies, TV shows, and comics are more likely to be sought after by fans. This often leads to a higher resale value, especially if the character’s popularity endures over time.

    One helpful resource for collectors is the Pop Price Guide, which offers an organized database of Funko Pops. It provides estimated value ranges for each figure, along with additional details such as release date, exclusivity, and rarity. Utilizing this guide can give collectors a better understanding of the market and help them make informed decisions when adding to their collections.

    In conclusion, the value of Funko Pops is mainly derived from rarity, condition, demand, and popularity. With these factors in mind, it’s no surprise that the most expensive Funko Pops involve some of the rarest and iconic figures in mint condition. Collecting, though a fun and rewarding hobby, can be a competitive market where knowledge and research are essential for success.

    The Most Expensive Funko Pop Characters

    Star Wars Characters

    As a collector, I have noticed that some of the most expensive Funko Pop characters are from the Star Wars universe. For example, the Boba Fett (Droids) figure, released as a San Diego Comic-Con exclusive, can reach prices up to $2,000. Another highly sought-after character is the Holographic Darth Maul, which can cost around $3,000.

    Game of Thrones Characters

    In my collection of Game of Thrones Funko Pops, I’ve observed that characters such as the Headless Ned Stark can sell for around $1,100. Next, the Metallic Children of the Forest figure is valued around $600. These vinyl figures are quite popular among collectors due to their limited availability and the show’s tremendous fan base.

    Marvel Characters

    When it comes to Marvel characters, I’ve discovered that the original Metallic Blue Spider-Man figure can sell for nearly $1,500. Another rarity in my collection is the Metallic Ghost Rider, whose value has gone up to $3,000. These limited-edition Funko Pops are in high demand, particularly among Marvel enthusiasts.

    Disney Characters

    I take pride in my collection of Disney Funko Pops, and one of the most expensive I’ve come across is the Gold Simba, currently valued around $1,800. Additionally, the incredibly rare Black-Eyed Mickey Mouse sold at the D23 Expo can reach up to $2,000 in value.

    DC Characters

    As a fan of DC, I’ve found that the most expensive DC Funko Pop character in my collection is the Silver Batman, which is currently selling for just over $1,000. Another valuable piece is the Chase Metallic Green Lantern, whose value has reached up to $1,250.

    Dragon Ball Z Characters

    Lastly, in my experience accumulating figures from the Dragon Ball Z series, I’ve observed that the Planet Arlia Vegeta Funko Pop can be worth nearly $4,000. The Beerus Flocked variant can also fetch around $700 on the market. The high value of these figures stems from their limited production and their substantial fan following.

    Exclusive Funko Pop Figures

    One of the most expensive Funko Pop collectibles I came across is the Freddy Funko as Frankenberry. This special limited edition piece was released in 2011 at San Diego Comic-Con, with only 12 units produced. Due to this rarity, it became incredibly popular and now costs thousands of dollars on the resale market.

    Another sought-after Funko Pop piece I found is the Holographic Darth Maul, which was released as a San Diego Comic-Con exclusive in 2012. This unique figure features the fan-favorite Star Wars villain with a holographic effect, making it a must-have for collectors. With only 480 pieces made, it is no surprise the value of this collectible has risen over time.

    Similar to the Holographic Darth Maul, I discovered the Planet Arlia Vegeta from the Dragon Ball Z series also making its mark among the most expensive Funko Pops. With a striking metallic finish and distinctive coloring, this figure was exclusive to the 2014 New York Comic-Con Toy Tokyo booth. Its limited production run of 504 pieces contributes to its high value.

    Two notable exclusive Freddy Funko variations that caught my attention are the Boba Fett Freddy Funko and the Frankenberry Freddy Funko. The Boba Fett Freddy Funko was a 2014 San Diego Comic-Con exclusive, limited to 196 pieces. The Frankenberry Freddy Funko was released in 2011 and limited to 12 pieces, as mentioned earlier. Both of these unique collectibles command high prices on the resale market due to their limited availability.

    I also encountered the Hopper (Gold) from Stranger Things, which was released exclusively at the 2017 San Diego Comic-Con. This ultra-rare Funko Pop has a limited production of 40 pieces, making it one of the rarest in the series. Its gold color and exclusive status contribute to its high resale value.

    Finally, the Metallic Mickey Mouse is another Funko Pop that stands out among the most expensive collectibles. This figure was produced as an exclusive for the 2011 San Diego Comic-Con, and only 480 pieces were created. The metallic finish and rarity of this beloved Disney character have made it a highly desirable piece for collectors.

    Special Edition Funko Pops

    As a Funko Pop collector, I’ve come across several special edition Funko Pops that stand out due to their rarity and unique features. Some of the most expensive and sought-after variants include glow-in-the-dark, bloody, flocked, and golden ticket Funko Pops.

    Glow in the Dark Funko Pops are particularly fascinating because they come alive in the dark, radiating a captivating glow. I find these Pops to be unique conversation starters, both visually appealing and valuable in any collector’s set.

    On the other hand, Bloody Funko Pops showcase characters from horror movies or TV shows and are often adorned with splatters of “blood.” They add a touch of dark charm to any collection.

    For collectors looking for something softer, Flocked Funko Pops are an excellent option. These Pops have a velvety, furry texture; they offer a different tactile experience compared to the standard vinyl figure. I especially appreciate their added dimension and depth.

    Lastly, the rarest of them all: Golden Ticket Funko Pops. To acquire one, you must find a limited edition golden ticket within the packaging of a regular Funko Pop. These variations are quite valuable, as they may unlock exclusive experiences or one-of-a-kind variants, not found elsewhere.

    In conclusion, when building an impressive Funko Pop collection, keep an eye out for special edition Pops like glow-in-the-dark, bloody, flocked, and golden ticket variants. These unique additions not only enhance your collection’s appearance but also significantly increase its value.

    Collectible Funko Pop Categories

    Music Related Funko Pops

    In my experience, music-related Funko Pops have always been popular among collectors. Iconic musicians and bands such as Freddie Mercury, The Beatles, and Elvis Presley have their own Funko Pop figures, each showcasing their unique styles and personas. These figurines are a perfect way for fans to celebrate their love for their favorite musicians and to show off their impressive collections. These Funko Pops can range in price depending on the rarity and popularity of the musicians.

    Sports Related Funko Pops

    As a collector, I’ve noticed the immense popularity of sports-related Funko Pops. These collectibles often feature famous athletes from various sports such as basketball, football, and baseball. Particularly sought-after figures include the likes of Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Babe Ruth. Collectors value these Funko Pops highly due to their accurate representation of the athletes’ well-known uniforms and signature poses. Prices for sports-related Funko Pops can vary, with rarer figures fetching a higher price in the market.

    Animated Shows Funko Pops

    Animated shows have a significant influence on Funko Pop collectors, as they have given us some of the most unique and eccentric figures. Ranging from Cartoon Network’s Adventure Time to the ever-popular Dragon Ball Z, the animated series is a treasure trove for fans searching for their favorite characters. I believe that the combination of elaborate character designs and the nostalgic connection to these shows makes these Funko Pops highly sought after. Like other categories, the prices of animated show Funko Pops can fluctuate based on rarity and demand.

    Video Games Funko Pops

    Lastly, video games have an extensive and dedicated fan base, and it’s no surprise that the video game Funko Pops is an essential part of any avid collector’s display. Representing iconic characters such as Super Mario, Lara Croft, and Master Chief, these figurines capture the essence of the video gaming world. Personally, I enjoy the intricate details that these Funko Pops showcase, as they combine the nostalgia and excitement that video games are known for. As with other categories, prices for video game Funko Pops may vary; rare and exclusive figures can fetch a premium on the market.

    Finding and Buying Expensive Funko Pops

    As a collector, I have frequently encountered the challenge of finding and purchasing expensive Funko Pop figures. Often, the most valuable ones are hard to find, and in some cases, only available through exclusive sales or events.

    When searching for these high-priced Funko Pops, Target and other major retailers can sometimes have special editions or limited-time sales. I recommend checking their websites regularly and signing up for any notifications in order to stay up to date on these offers. Additionally, you can follow their social media accounts to stay informed about deals and announcements, which can sometimes provide exclusive access to sought-after figures.

    For those hard-to-find Funko Pops, online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon are useful resources. They often feature a range of listings for both new and pre-owned figures. When purchasing from these platforms, I always pay careful attention to the item’s condition, seller ratings, and return policies, as these details can significantly impact the figure’s value.

    There are also specialized websites and forums dedicated to Funko Pop collecting, such as the Funko Pop Reddit community and the Funko Pop Price Guide website. These platforms can offer insights into the figures’ current market value and provide opportunities for networking with other collectors who might be selling or trading the items you are seeking.

    Attending conventions and events, like Comic-Con and similar gatherings, can also be a great way to find rare and expensive Funko Pops. These events often feature exclusive releases that are not available elsewhere and provide an opportunity to meet other collectors who might have valuable figures for sale or trade.

    In conclusion, finding and purchasing expensive Funko Pops can be challenging, but by regularly checking retailer websites, utilizing online marketplaces and collector forums, and attending events, you can ensure that you are able to secure these prized collectibles.

    Conclusion

    As a collector, I’ve witnessed the growing popularity of collectibles, especially when it comes to expensive Funko Pops. It’s been fascinating to observe how these small vinyl figures can command such high prices in the market.

    Collectors should keep an eye out for rare and exclusive pieces, as they typically hold more value. It’s essential to stay well-informed about new releases and special edition Funko Pops, as these can become highly desired in the collectibles community.

    Feel free to share your comments and experiences with these collectibles. Engaging in conversation with fellow collectors can help broaden your knowledge and give you insights into the most coveted Funko Pops.

    In the end, it’s important to be confident and savvy when it comes to seeking out and purchasing valuable Funko Pops. As long as you remain well-versed in the market trends and keep a neutral perspective, you’re likely to grow and maintain a stunning collection that you can truly be proud of.

  • Top 10 Lead Generation Tools

    Top 10 Lead Generation Tools

    Lead generation, or lead gen, is a crucial aspect of any business, as it helps to identify and attract potential customers. In today’s digital age, there are a plethora of tools available to help businesses generate leads. In this blog post, we will be discussing the top 10 tools for lead generation that can help you to increase your customer base and grow your business.

    Lead gen is one of the best methods to grow a business because it allows a company to identify and attract potential customers. By generating leads, a business can increase its customer base and drive sales. This method can also provide valuable insights into customer behavior, preferences, and demographics. The information can be used to create targeted marketing campaigns that are more likely to convert leads into customers.

    Additionally, by consistently generating leads, a business can ensure a steady flow of new customers and maintain growth over time. Lead gen also allows for cost-effective marketing, as it allows a business to reach out to a large number of potential customers through various channels such as email, social media, and search engines, at a relatively low cost. Furthermore, with the use of lead generation tools and software, companies can easily track, analyze and optimize their lead generation efforts, thus making the process more efficient and effective.

    All in all, this is a powerful method to help businesses identify, attract and convert potential customers, which results in a steady growth in sales and customer base, and the ability to make data-driven decisions.

    Top Lead Generation Tools

    1. MailChimp: MailChimp is a popular email marketing tool that allows businesses to create and send professional-looking emails to their target audience. With MailChimp, you can create custom email campaigns, segment your lists, and track the performance of your campaigns. This tool also allows you to automate your email marketing, making it easy to stay in touch with your customers and generate leads.
    2. Leadpages: Leadpages is a powerful lead-generation tool that helps businesses to create and publish landing pages, pop-ups, and forms. With Leadpages, you can easily create custom landing pages that are optimized for lead generation, and you can use the built-in analytics to track the performance of your pages.
    3. LinkedIn Sales Navigator: LinkedIn Sales Navigator is a lead generation tool that is specifically designed for B2B companies. It allows you to search for leads based on specific criteria, such as job title, location, and industry. You can also use the tool to track the activity of your leads, such as their interactions with your company, and you can receive alerts when they update their profile.
    4. Hubspot: Hubspot is a comprehensive marketing and sales tool that helps businesses to generate leads, convert them into customers, and analyze their data. With Hubspot, you can create custom forms, landing pages, and CTAs, and you can also use the tool’s built-in analytics to track the performance of your campaigns.
    5. SEMrush: SEMrush is a digital marketing tool that helps businesses to track their search engine rankings, analyze their competitors, and generate leads. With SEMrush, you can conduct keyword research, track your search engine rankings, and monitor your competitors’ activities. This tool also allows you to create custom reports and alerts, making it easy to stay on top of your lead-generation efforts.
    6. Hootsuite: Hootsuite is a social media management tool that helps businesses to schedule, publish, and analyze their social media content. With Hootsuite, you can easily create custom social media campaigns, track the performance of your campaigns, and generate leads from your social media channels.
    7. Google Analytics: Google Analytics is a powerful web analytics tool that helps businesses to track the performance of their websites and generate leads. With Google Analytics, you can track website traffic, monitor user behavior, and create custom reports and alerts. This tool also allows you to integrate with other lead generation tools, such as Google AdWords and Google Tag Manager.
    8. OptinMonster: OptinMonster is a lead generation tool that helps businesses to create and publish custom opt-in forms, pop-ups, and landing pages. With OptinMonster, you can easily create custom forms and pop-ups that are optimized for lead generation, and you can use the tool’s built-in analytics to track the performance of your campaigns.
    9. Unbounce: Unbounce is a lead-generation tool that helps businesses to create and publish custom landing pages, pop-ups, and forms. With Unbounce, you can easily create custom landing pages that are optimized for lead generation, and you can use the tool’s built-in analytics to track the performance of your pages.
    10. Leadformly: Leadformly is a lead generation tool that helps businesses to create and publish custom forms and surveys.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, lead gen is essential for any business looking to grow its customer base and increase sales. The tools listed in this blog post are some of the best in the market, each with its own unique features and capabilities. MailChimp, Leadpages, LinkedIn Sales Navigator, Hubspot, SEMrush, Hootsuite, Google Analytics, OptinMonster, Unbounce, and Leadformly are all great options for businesses looking to generate leads and convert them into customers. With these tools at your disposal, you’ll be able to create effective lead-gen campaigns and track your results in real time. Remember, lead generation is an ongoing process, and it’s important to keep experimenting and testing different strategies to find what works best for your business.

    Related: JavaScript Programming Books

  • 10 blogueros e influencers de Houston

    10 blogueros e influencers de Houston

    Estos son los bloggers de Houston que hemos disfrutado este año. Como saben, Houston es definitivamente un lugar para que los blogueros tengan éxito. Desde eventos culturales hasta sitios históricos, lugares para comer y, sobre todo, grandes personas para conocer.

    Hoy queremos darte un recorrido por esas personas que intentan aportar contenido de calidad sea a través de la moda, comida, estilo de vida u otro. No hay una clasificación ni hicimos votaciones, solo mostramos a una pequeña parte de los Bloggers que más nos han llamado la atención. ¡Comenzamos!

    Bloggers de Houston

    Estos bloggers de Houston están difundiendo felicidad y sabiduría con su influencia. Si desea obtener más información sobre Houston, Texas… la comida, la gente, la moda y otras cosas sobre Houston, consulte estos blogs de Houston.

    Mocha Man Style by Frederick J.

    Frederick nos expone en su blog como es vivir con cinco niños, dos perros y seguir queriendo crecer como persona. Desde entretenimiento hasta moda, nos da consejos en todos los ámbitos de la vida que el ve necesarios. Es una persona muy creativa y que ha renunciado a su trabajo para dedicarse a bloggear a tiempo completo.

    The Neon Factor by Diana

    The Neon Factor es un blog atrevido, para mujeres que se atreven a poner su pie al frente y seguir adelante sin importar lo que venga. Con un estilo inigualable y que rompe todas las modas actuales. Diana siempre se esfuerza en aclarar que el mundo necesita más mujeres que no sigan la raya de la moda, que impongan tendencia y no paren de creer y crear.

    The B Werd by Courtney

    The B Werd es el sitio ideal si buscas consejos de moda y enseñanzas para madres nuevas. Courtney comparte toda su vida personal aquí, con retos, logros y fallos. Es muy entretenido leer sus historias con sus hijos, las ofertas que ha conseguido en el supermercado y sobre todo ver los hermosos looks que lleva día tras día.

    2 Girls Who Travel by Val and Kim

    Así como lo lees, estas dos amigas van alrededor del mundo para mostrar las maravillas de paisajes que hay y no tomamos en cuenta. Con una laptop, cámara y sus celulares, nos dan un review de todos los sitios que visitan y cuando vuelven a Houston, nos dan sus mejores recomendaciones de donde ir a comer y que sitios culturales visitar.

    Brend New by Brenda

    Brenda empezó el blog con pequeños consejos sobre como cuidar cabellos rizados, y a través de ese simple tema podemos disfrutar de consejos de moda, estilos de vida, ofertas, y muchas cosas más! Brenda es un aire fresco a lo que vemos habitualmente en blogs: Es carismática e ingeniosa.

    Related: Houston Food Bloggers

    The Corkscrew Concierge by Kat

    Un blog para los amantes de los vinos en Houston, y para los que les gusta ver buenos reviews de viajes a diferentes ciudades y países. Kat nunca ha tenido miedo de decir lo que piensa, y tampoco de salir sola y comerse al mundo por sus propias manos.

    Black Allergy Mama by Renia

    Si te gusta la cocina pero no encuentras un blog que pueda adaptarse a tus alergias ni a tus necesidades especiales, Renia tiene la solución. Dentro de Black Allergy Mama verás recetas de comidas sencillas sin ingredientes dañinos, tanto para alérgicos a los frutos secos, como para celíacos. Siempre tiene una receta para ti, no importa tu alergia o tu condición. Y trata que en cada receta si esposible, haya una alternativa durante la producción.

    Dazzling Diva Photograph by Kelley

    Muchos fotógrafos usan sus redes sociales y páginas únicamente para hacers publicidad, pero Kelley intenta que su blog no se base únicamente en enseñar su trabajo, si no en explicar todo el proceso, en hacerlo real, en empatizar con las sesiones. Definitivamente es muy interesante leerlo y profundizar en el hermoso arte de la fotografía.

    A Beautiful RAWR by Linh

    Este blog es perfecto para las madres que quieren mantenerse fit mientras crían a sus niños y cumplen con todas las labores del día a día. Linh es muy carismática y siempre nos recuerda que a pesar de no poder hacer todo, podemos hacer un poco de esfuerzo para para ser mejor cada día.

    Irony of Ashi by Agatha Ashi

    En el blog de Instagram de Agatha podemos admirar nuevos estilos y las historias de sus viajes, además de recomendaciones de productos y como lleva su vida viajando constantemente.

    Conclusión

    ¡Hemos terminado por ahora! Con suerte, estos bloggers de Houston son nuevos para usted. Si no, te invitamos a revisar las que más te han interesado y decirnos si tienes otras personas a destacar para esta lista.

    Más: Houston Bloggers, Sugar Land Bloggers

  • 18 Simple Lifestyle Blog Niches

    18 Simple Lifestyle Blog Niches

    When people decide to start blogging, they often get overwhelmed.

    The hardest thing to figure out is what to blog about.

    I think you’ll find that if you just take time and find your niche, things will become much easier and less stressful.

    Having a blog niche will give you the answers to your other questions.

    18 Lifestyle Blog Niches To Try

    Now if you know what you’ll be writing about, you know who to target, why they might be interested, and what to do to keep them engaged.

    To get you started, here are some broad lifestyle blog topic umbrellas to choose from.

    Maybe one of these will speak to you, and before you know it you’ll be off and away, a pro blogger in no time!

    Personal Blog Post Ideas

    Possibly the most obvious of lifestyle blog topics is talking about yourself and your life. You might wonder whether anyone would even care, but you’d be surprised how many people are surfing the internet looking for connections and people they can feel close to.

    This is especially the case if they’re shy, in which case they might prefer to just be able to read about your life and feel like your friend without feeling the pressure of keeping up their side of a friendship.

    Having a blog about your own life lends itself well to storytelling, something that humans instinctively love and latch onto.

    Possible personal blog ideas include:

    • Personal stories (embarrassing moments, triumphant memories, or epic failures)
    • Your current lifestyle
    • Advice (job interview secrets, relationship advice, or financial tips)

    Inspirational Blog Post Ideas

    It might sound strange to advise you to write about something you haven’t done as a lifestyle blog topic, but if it’s something you want to do and are passionate about, that passion will shine through and attract readers.

    People love hearing stories of struggle or achievement or even failure, and these types of stories often have more passion and energy behind them than telling a story of what you’ve done in the past. Readers will get caught up in your excitement and will want to be with you throughout the journey, wherever it leads.

    Possible inspirational blog ideas include:

    • Bucket lists (things to do, places to travel, or people to meet)
    • Resolutions (fitness, dating, dietary, spiritual, or financial)
    • Monthly/yearly goals
    • Participation in a challenge

    Roundup Lifestyle Blog Post Ideas

    Everybody loves these roundup lifestyle topics because it means you’ve done all the hard work for them already! They no longer have to trawl through hundreds of Google search results to find the best rice cooker or movie night movie because you’ve given it to them right there on your blog.

    They might even find that you post “top” lists of things they didn’t even realize they needed. Sticking with a list of favorites as your lifestyle blog topic will give you unlimited blog post ideas.

    Possible roundup lifestyle blog ideas include:

    • New media (books, movies, podcasts, or music)
    • Must-haves (stuff in your life, kitchen appliances, or workout gear)
    • Event ideas (birthday parties, weddings, or hangouts)
    • Recipes
    • People (social media influencers, authors, or local heroes)

    Money Making Blog Post Ideas

    These are the money-making lifestyle topics to discuss. These are the lifestyle blog topics that people seem to enjoy reading!

    If you can show others how to do something easier or faster then you’ll have devoted, lifelong followers. These are blog topic tips for those wanting to focus strictly on making money on day one.

    Possible money-making blog ideas include:

    • Tutorials (cooking, gardening, crafting, or productivity)
    • Hacks (upcycling, improving upon pre-existing items, anything that saves time, or money)
    • Life lessons

    Simple Lifestyle Blog Post Ideas

    Finally, these last lifestyle blog post ideas are simple ways a content creator can help readers improve their day. They will come to this blog for beautiful or creative posts, posts that show them how to be their best selves, and posts that make them feel just a little bit better about the world.

    Possible simple lifestyle blog ideas include:

    • Daily photo
    • Weekly artwork (samples, behind the scene moments, or progress updates)
    • Inspirational quotes/stories/interviews
    • Things that make you happy
    • Advice from successful people

    Conclusion

    Now that you have an idea of what to write about, check out our post on tips for lifestyle blogs to make an even better product and gain even more followers!

    Related: How Do New Bloggers Drive Traffic to Blogs

  • Mostly Tech Christmas Gifts for Adults

    Mostly Tech Christmas Gifts for Adults

    Everyone loves a good Christmas gift, especially if its a tech-inspired Christmas gifts that will survive the next year.

    Sorry, this list will not feature any cheap low-quality gifts. Some adults rarely ever get good tech-inspired Christmas gifts because people haven’t done their research or don’t know any better.

    Some of the popular tech gifts to give another adult are below:

    Apple TV 4K

    You want to stream your Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Crunchyroll, and other apps. So here are two popular solutions. Not much needs to be said about this device if you’re in the Apple ecosystem. The new Apple TV 4K is an ingenious device that connects directly to the television and transmits movies and television programs.

    And for people looking for a more portable solution will love the 4K Amazon Fire TV Stick. The 4K TV Stick comes with a voice remote control for the voice search feature.

    Tile Mate Key Finder

    How many times has your friend been looking for something just to realize that it was in their pocket? If this sounds like they may appreciate the new Tile Mate, the thinnest and lightest version of the Tile.

    The Tile Mate connects to anything with a loop and uses low-energy Bluetooth to transmit a signal to your smartphone. The Tile app can locate or even call the Tile so you can hear it.

    UTILYZE Facial Cleansing Brush

    This compact and portable electric brush is the perfect complement to any gym bag.

    The Sonic Facial Cleansing Brush is a reliable facial brush and has multiple speeds, including a power clean mode that will remove stubborn make-up, sunscreen, and other annoyances in minutes.

    iHome Wireless Vanity Mirror

    The new iHome Hollywood Vanity Mirror double-sided vanity mirror features a Bluetooth wireless speaker that’s perfect for a pre-game playlist.

    Additionally, this vanity mirror has adjustable LEDs, 10X magnification, and a built-in microphone.

    Nest Security Camera

    If you’re worried about theft or pet antics, this smart security camera will help keep an eye on your home 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    The Nest Cam constantly records high-resolution videos and has great features such as motion detection and activity zones. The popular cloud cam also has a built-in speaker and microphone, so you can listen to what is happening and talk through the app.

    Apple AirPods

    Anyone will love these quality earbuds. With the new AirPods Pro, you will get 24+ hours of battery life, amazing high-quality audio, and noise cancellation.

    BeoPlay A9 Speakers

    Quality is everything! The BeoPlay A9 Speaker is a wireless speaker system that can stream audio from iOS or Android devices over Wi-Fi using DLNA or Apple AirPlay technology.

    These BeoPlay speakers have a very thin aluminum lining that helps create tighter and more focused bass. The stretched speaker grille can be removed and replaced with colored covers that better suit the decoration of your room.

    SterlingPro Coffee Press

    So many people love to drink good coffee. Well, this is perfect for anyone wanting a quality coffee press in their kitchen. The SterlingPro Coffee Press is popular with the business and tech professionals because… caffeine is life!

    Swiss Army Knife

    If the person in question turns out to be a digital nomad, why don’t you get them something practical, like a Swiss knife?

    The typical Swiss Army Knife has a series of useful tools that can be useful for all types of situations, from a corkscrew for wine bottles to a screwdriver for opening some tech gadgets.

    Ultra-Thin RFID Wallet

    You can gift them a wallet if you’ve seen their wallet and it looks a mess. We know it sounds boring, but these wallets are nice.

    Bring an ultra-thin RFID Wallet that only fits their essentials in a wallet: cards and cash. The minimalist design will surely be a good change of pace compared to the larger and bulkier wallets.

    Over Door Jewelry Cabinet

    A good jewelry cabinet to fit the Fitbits, smartwatches, or those smart necklaces.

    Fossil Hybrid Smartwatch

    For the people that aren’t sold on the other smartwatches, Fossil make beautiful smartwatches that aren’t 100% digital.

    These Fossil Hybrid smartwatches are good for keeping track of activities, showing notifications, and telling time while offering great battery life. Their smartwatches usually support both iOS and Android.

    Shinola 47mm Watch

    For a more premium and traditional watch. These big-faced Shinola watches are great for vintage fans.

    These watches seem to be popular with the older tech community that don’t want a digital wrist piece.

    Ray-Ban Aviator Classic

    Have you seen successful tech lovers in the business industry? They love these damn sunglasses.

    There is a reason why the Ray-Ban Classic Aviator sunglasses are the most iconic sunglasses in the world… These Ray-Ban look great in any outfit, with any type, at any age, on any person.

    Morris Park Shaving Kit

    This is the perfect gift for anyone having to deal with tech companies that prefer their workers to keep their facial hair low.

    The Morris Park Shaving Kit has everything that a man needs to be well-groomed when he is away from home. And as a bonus, it comes in an attractive and compact kit that adapts perfectly to any carry-on baggage.

    4K Action Camera

    If your man is in the sports field or in the field of videography, an action camera will be a good gift for him.

    A quality action camera like the GoPro Hero is very fast and captures high-quality images. It has massive storage space and offers 12MP photos and video resolutions up to 4K.

    Kindle Paperwhite

    The Kindle Paperwhite is a wonderful gift for any book lover. It has a totally new design that is thinner and lighter.

    The Paperwhite has a cool touch screen that reads like real paper. There are no screen bright glare issues, even in bright sunlight, unlike tablets. And the added bonus is the always-growing Kindle library that has millions of books.

    Grado Open-Back Headphones

    If you are looking for a pair of high-quality headphones, then Grado is the brand to turn to.

    Grado has been producing headphones with great affection for more than half a century. The Grado Prestige Series Open-Back Headphones are the top-end models aimed at audio professionals.

    August Smart Lock Pro

    The August Smart Lock Pro is great for anyone wanting to complete their smart home setup. Unlock the front door with a regular key or touch it with a smartphone or smartwatch.

    The August Smart Lock Pro can also grant access to other smartphones through the secure application from anywhere.

    Conclusion

    Thanks for reading – if you enjoyed our list then please share this article. These items are good as Christmas gifts and are all affordable and are the kind of gifts people will enjoy, whether they are tech enthusiasts or not.

  • What is Augmented Reality?

    What is Augmented Reality?

    John Hanke is an unassuming man from a tiny Texas town who learned how to code in middle school back in the 80’s, the early days of personal computing. Intrigued by some high school students playing a Star Trek game on an old TRS-80, he quickly learned how to code his own games, even earning himself $250 for submitting his game code to ANALOG Computing magazine. While his love for computers and gaming never waned, he also had a healthy interest in many other subjects and activities and a real love for new and exciting experiences.

    After obtaining both a liberal arts education and an MBA, he went on to found multiple gaming and mapping startups, which eventually resulted in his becoming CEO of Keyhole, a geo-spatial data-visualization company that was acquired by Google in 2004. While at Google he worked on the company’s mapping and geo-imaging technology while developing his own pet project company, Niantic.

    Hanke loved computers and gaming, but what he really wanted to develop was a game that would encourage players to get out in the world, meeting new people and interacting with their local landscapes. What resulted was a mobile game you might have heard of: Pokémon Go.

    Besides being one of the most successful mobile games of all time (6 million downloads in just the US, New Zealand, and Australia, all on the first day of its release), it is by far the most successful augmented reality game to hit digital shelves ever. But that begs the questions: what is augmented reality? How is it different from virtual reality? Is it just for games, or does it have other applications? This article will answer these questions and more, telling you all you need to know about augmented reality and its uses.

    What is Augmented Reality?

    Augmented reality (AR) is an enhanced version of a physical landscape in one or more sensory modalities in real time. This is a complicated way of saying that AR is a real-time experience of a real place that has been digitally altered in one or more ways. The clearest and most widely-viewed example (though most people might not recognize it as AR) is that yellow first-down line you see in every televised football game. Sports have actually been a leader in augmented reality because overlaying graphics helps spectators clearly understand what is happening in a game or match, where points have been awarded or earned, and what strategies players are using. In a football game, you are seeing a real-life location, in “real time” (maybe it was pre-taped so it’s not live, but it’s still playing out like it did when the game occurred), with helpful digital alterations (the first down line and other graphics) in one or more sensory modalities (in this case, vision).

    Though this is by far the most prominent application of AR technology currently, once you understand exactly what is augmented reality, you start to see all of the different situations that would benefit from a little bit of AR. The proliferation of cell phones has really been a driving force in the augmented reality world, not just in the case of Pokémon Go, but also with maps, real estate, and social media, amongst others.

    The way augmented reality works on a phone is that the phone’s camera takes in the physical world around you in real time. Artificially intelligent (AI) software recognizes the objects on your screen, allowing you to utilize the options in an application (depending on the app) to manipulate the depicted world in a realistic way. This may be a case of prospectively arranging furniture in a room to see what it would look like without having to actually buy and haul the furniture. Or maybe if you’re traveling in an unfamiliar location, your phone will detect where you are and overlay information about each business or which direction to go to find tourist attractions.

    Augmented reality can be used to redesign something without actually changing it or creating a prototype – the AI can just overlay the new design on the old. It’s kind of like what you see in a lot of sci-fi movies (or even with Iron Man in the Avengers movies), where people have glasses, goggles, or electronic eyes that analyze everything in the field of vision and list information related to it. Except that it’s so much more than that as well.

    AR versus VR

    Now that you understand what is augmented reality, we need to make sure you understand what the difference is between it and virtual reality (VR), another up-and-coming technology that’s attracting major investors. While augmented reality is building on and interacting with a world that already exists, virtual reality is creating an entirely virtual environment. It is the literal opposite of the real world. On a scale of the real world to virtual world, augmented reality falls closer to the real world than it does virtually. And in many ways, this has made it (paradoxically) more difficult to create than virtual reality.

    With VR, the creator has complete control over the environment. Everything you experience in virtual reality has been placed there by the creator and has been a deliberate choice. While creating a compelling and believable experience in virtual reality is no mean feat, it pales in comparison to the difficulties encountered by augmented reality programmers.

    With AR, it’s not a simple matter of just taking digital objects and pasting them on an image of the real world like stickers. Even the most simplistic digital items are placed with reference to scale, perspective, and object recognition.

    Take, for example, IKEA’s augmented reality app for trying out furniture in your home, IKEA Place. If you just take a picture of a room, there’s no telling what the scale is: are you zoomed up close to take a close-up shot of a flower? Or are you zoomed way out to take a photo of the whole room, like for a real estate listing? The IKEA app has to know the size of the room and the scale of the image so that it knows what size to make the virtual furniture that it inserts into your room. It also has to be able to figure out perspective in order to allow you to position the couch exactly how you would place it if it were really there. Without these features, the app would be useless, but there’s an incredible amount of engineering that has to go into these key features and make them applicable to any room anyone ever tries to place furniture in.

    Another key example is the Snapchat filters or the iPhone capabilities that allow you to turn your face into an emoji. Though this seems silly and banal, just think of all the engineering that has to go into being able to map out every face that ever was and to apply a filter to it, in 3D. With the augmented reality map for traveling, the technology has to be able to recognize where buildings begin and end before it can go about figuring out what business occupies them and what all the relevant information is. AR creates an entirely new virtual layer of the physical world around us.

    The AR company Ubiquity6 is creating an app that opens up the environment to digital editing. People can leave digital notes in physical locations for others to search for and find. Take this a step further and the possibilities are endless: renters can leave virtual notes for subletters about how best to handle the temperamental hot water heater. Teachers can create educational scavenger hunts whose items wouldn’t run the risk of going missing or being damaged. Disaster relief workers can leave notes for later shifts on what areas they’ve worked on or what still needs to be done.

    At its core, when understanding what is augmented reality, you’re comprehending that AI has to be programmed and trained to do the things humans do without a second thought. AR is at the forefront of AI development and will be one of the leaders in technological progress. The field can’t move forward without advancing the standard of artificial intelligence. That is why it is such a big deal, and that is why it’s so different from – and more applicable than – virtual reality.

    The Future of AR

    While virtual reality tends to be more isolating in nature, an intrinsic characteristic of augmented reality is its ability to bring people together and to get them to interact with the outside world more. As John Hanke (aforementioned creator of Pokémon Go) says, “With AR you can paint the physical world with this interactive, two-way interface that can give you information about the status of every physical thing that you’re passing by or interacting with—and let you book it, schedule it, buy it, or learn about it. That’s the ultimate vision that gets me excited.” As AR technology develops and more people come to understand what is augmented reality, its applications and usage will only become more widespread. At the rate it’s moving, it promises to be the dominant technology in just another decade or two. With that in mind, let’s take a look at what the future holds.

    The proliferation of augmented reality will make all the devices we currently use (including smartphones, laptops, tablets, etc.) obsolete, the same way the smartphone made digital cameras, MP3 players, landlines, and GPS’s obsolete. Companies are already developing AR tech that, rather than utilizing your cell phone and acting through it, supplants it by projecting a phone or screen onto a nearby surface and reacting when you interact with that projection. Think, again, of sci-fi or Iron Man, where there are floating screens all around you that you can interact with. Except these screens needn’t be actual, physical devices. They can just be projections that you can place wherever you’d like.

    In the same way, developers are working on glasses and windows that turn the outside world into a canvas for you to display information, graphics, or images or to manipulate as you please. In this way, AR will alter the very way we interact with and perceive the outside world. People from all different backgrounds and countries will be able to converse naturally as AI takes in what is said, translates it, and either throws up the translated text in your field of vision or plays a translated version in your ear (à la babel fish from Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy).

    As with any game-changing technology, there are, of course, concerns moving forward. There is a very real danger of information overload, over-the-top connectivity, and an inability to unplug. The whole world might become overrun with digital manipulation, or even persistent advertising, culminating in an all-too-real embodiment of many a Black Mirror episode. People who want some space and distance from the technology might find they can’t get it, either from social or work pressure or just because our lives will become too reliant on the tech. Just as augmented reality has enormous potential to drastically change the world for good, it could very easily go the opposite way.

    So as we move forward, it is imperative that we stop at every juncture and really ask ourselves: what is augmented reality? What do we want it to be? Where can we let it progress, and where should we check its spread? We need to learn from all of the debate and scandal swirling around the tech giants now (especially Facebook, but they’re all implicated) and place some real restrictions on what AR can become. But once we do that, augmented reality truly has the potential to open up a new world and fundamentally change the way we interact with it.


    What Is Augmented Reality