• I'm a mom of two kids under the age of 4.
• I rely on my kids' boomer grandparents when I need childcare.
• They don't always understand the way I parent, but they try hard.

I'm a mom of a 4-year-old and a 7-month-old who attend day care while my husband and I work full-time. Boomer grandparents get a lot of grief for being unempathetic and aloof, but that's not the case for my family. My children's boomer grandparents are my childcare secret weapon and I couldn't be a working parent without their help.

I'm not the only one, either; I see our school's office administrators helping grandparents navigate the attendance system at least once a week. I've even become friendly with some of the grandparents I see regularly at pick-up. For some millennials, grandparents are an important part of our family ecosystem.

We heavily considered their proximity to us when choosing a home

When choosing our first home, it was important to us to have easy access to my mom and my in-laws, who are less than 30 minutes away, to ensure that our children could see their grandparents frequently. Both sets of parents are in their mid to late 70s; I had my first child at 36 and my second at 40, so their time together is precious.

When my youngest first attended day care, she only went three days a week. My mom and in-laws surprised me by offering to watch her the other two days so I could work full-time without paying for full-time care. I'm sure they would have offered even if they lived further away, having them relatively close has made a huge difference.

While they might not understand our new parenting systems, they try hard

I'm grateful that neither my in-laws nor my mom have ever questioned modern millennial parenting values and concepts. I'm sure they are internally rolling their eyes at me when I talk about sleep hygiene, bottle schedules, and gentle parenting. But they genuinely try to stick to my schedules and notes.

I've found that my part of this relationship is letting things go that aren't make-or-break; my child will be OK if someone forgets to put them in a sleep sack for a nap or if my mom makes a bottle by hand instead of using our fancy formula machine.

Thankfully, none of them has ever given me long diatribes about how they did things when we were babies. This mutual respect is what keeps our relationship healthy, and I'm grateful that they're open to learning the ways we think are best for our children at this point in time, no matter how ridiculous they might seem to them.

I've learned to pick my battles

As a first-time mom suffering from postpartum anxiety, I would internally flip out, watching them feed my toddler things riddled with added sugar and salt. It's been four years since I had my first child and their first grandchild. I've now realized their time together is more important than the details. While I would prefer that my preschooler not get diet tea sweetened with stevia, her tea party is much more important than what's in her cup.

They are there when we need them most

Now that both of my children are in full-time care, my mom and in-laws regularly pick them up from school to help me with scheduling issues or to give us a break from the grueling job of parenting. It can be frustrating when both sets are unavailable for holidays or sick days because they are almost always available and eager to help. These are the moments I have to catch myself and acknowledge how lucky I am to have two sets of grandparents at the ready.

• The FBI has issued a warning about a Chinese ransomware group called Ghost.
• Ghost has attacked critical infrastructure, schools, and businesses in over 70 countries.
• The FBI advises using security updates and multifactor authentication to prevent ransomware attacks.

The FBI is warning about a new ransomware hacker group called "Ghost."

The FBI published a security advisory with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency that said the group began indiscriminately attacking organizations in more than 70 countries starting in 2021. The warning from the FBI and the CISA says Ghost is now one of the top ransomware groups, targeting organizations all over the world as recently as January.

"Ghost actors, located in China, conduct these widespread attacks for financial gain," the report says. "Affected victims include critical infrastructure, schools and universities, healthcare, government networks, religious institutions, technology and manufacturing companies, and numerous small- and medium-sized businesses."

Ransomware is a type of malware that lets bad actors encrypt a victim's data until they pay a ransom. Ransomware attacks have become more common in recent years, sometimes targeting large companies or government infrastructure.

A ransomware attack in February 2024 against Chain Healthcare, the payment arm of healthcare giant UnitedHealth Group, briefly crippled the pharmacy industry after it caused a major backlog in filling customer subscriptions.

Most ransomware hackers use phishing methods, sending fake messages to victims in the hope that they'll click a link and install malware on their devices.

The hackers in the Ghost group, however, use publicly available code to exploit common vulnerabilities in organizations' software that have not been removed by updated patches, the FBI says.

"The FBI has observed Ghost actors obtaining initial access to networks by exploiting public-facing applications that are associated with multiple Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures," the warning says.

The FBI said in the warning that Ghost attackers usually claim that they will sell the victim's stolen data if they do not pay a ransom. However, the agency said they "do not frequently exfiltrate a significant amount of information or files, such as intellectual property or personally identifiable information that would cause significant harm to victims if leaked."

The FBI recommends consulting its StopRansomware guide for comprehensive information on how companies can guard against ransomware attacks.

Some tips for fighting against common ransomware tactics are to maintain regular system backups of sensitive information, patch known system vulnerabilities with security updates and use phishing-resistant multifactor authentication for company email accounts.

The FBI recommends reporting any ransomware attacks to the agency. In the security advisory, the FBI said it is particularly interested in "any information that can be shared, including logs showing communication to and from foreign IP addresses, a sample ransom note, communications with threat actors, Bitcoin wallet information, and/or decryptor files."

• At 23, Hong Kong was Hannah Ho's dream city, until it wasn't.
• She had moved there after graduation but when she turned 30, she knew it was time to move back home.
• She enjoys spending more time with family back in the UK but wants to continue exploring the world.

When I graduated with degrees in business management and Chinese, I didn't have a clear career plan. I just knew I wanted to live abroad.

I had spent two semesters in China — six months studying in Shanghai and six months completing an internship in Qingdao. That year, I took a 5-day trip to Hong Kong, and something about the city's energy and diversity drew me in. I decided I wanted to move there.

So, at 23, I took the leap and moved to Hong Kong. I was excited but also nervous. I was a fresh graduate with no real-world experience and had landed a nine-month job as a project coordinator for an educational foundation.

I thought it would be a short adventure, but I ended up staying for seven years. I transitioned into the recruitment industry and before I knew it, Hong Kong became home. I made a lot of friends and adapted to the city's fast-paced lifestyle.

But my life in Hong Kong began to shift in 2020. During and after the pandemic, the once-bustling city felt gloomy. Over time, I realized that the version of Hong Kong I had fallen in love with was gone. Some of my close friends had left, tourism had slowed down, and the once-thriving social scene had faded with fewer gatherings and events.

As the city changed, so did I. I found myself craving something new, a fresh challenge and the desire for a career change began to grow.

Moving home was hard

In 2023, and after I turned 30, I knew it was time to leave. Moving back home to the UK was not an easy decision. It meant leaving behind the life and career I had built, the friendships I had formed, and a city that had shaped me as a person.

I had never heard anyone talk about how hard it is to move home after being an expat. The truth is, you come back as a different person, shaped by experiences and perspectives that people around you may not fully understand.

Meanwhile, I quickly noticed that things back home had also changed. My parents were older, most of my friends had settled down, and the life I once knew felt both familiar and foreign.

One of the biggest challenges I faced was returning without a professional network. Having left the UK straight after university, I had built my career in Hong Kong. Now, I was essentially starting from scratch.

In Hong Kong, my well-established career provided useful connections. Back in the UK, I had to rebuild everything. I started getting back in touch with old friends and acquaintances, attending networking events, and leveraging LinkedIn to create new opportunities. At times, it was uncomfortable, but I reminded myself that I had done this before — I had built a life from scratch once, and I could do it again.

Not missing Hong Kong's work culture

For the first time in years, I had time to pause and reflect. It was a strange paradox — I had longed for more balance, yet I found myself missing the intensity of my old life.

There's so much I miss about Hong Kong: transporting myself from the hustle and bustle of Central to an island beach or a hiking trail in 30 minutes. I miss the food, the social scene, and the warmer weather. The sense of adventure that came with living in a place where something was always happening.

In Hong Kong, I shared a compact apartment with a roommate in a lively neighborhood. Big-city living meant being surrounded by high-rises and skyscrapers. Now, in Liverpool — a port city about 200 miles northwest of London — I've gone from apartment living to a house with a garden — something that once felt almost impossible in Hong Kong. With more space, fresh air, and quieter surroundings, home now feels more open and relaxed.

Coming back to the UK has brought its own joys. Spending quality time with my family has been a highlight, I notice myself appreciating them now in a way I never did before. I can drop by my sister and brother's places for home-cooked meals, a cup of tea, and just talk about life. These simple moments remind me of the comfort and connection I once took for granted.

I have a car, so I can drive to the countryside instead of relying on public transport.

Adjusting to the UK's work culture has also been refreshing. In Hong Kong, the work ethic was intense — long workdays were the norm, and efficiency was everything. There was a sense of urgency in everything people did. In contrast, the UK has felt more relaxed. The standard 9-to-5 schedule, hybrid/remote working models, and emphasis on work-life balance have been a welcome change.

Most importantly, I've been using this transition as an opportunity to pivot my career. While I still work a part-time job, I've decided to step away from the agency recruitment industry. Now, I'm building an online business that will allow me to work remotely and travel more. Because if there's one thing I've learned, once an expat, always an expat.

It does feel like I'm starting from scratch, but I see it as an opportunity to build something new on my own terms while embracing the lessons and experiences that shaped me abroad.

Got a personal essay about moving home after living abroad that you want to share? Get in touch with the editor: [email protected].

Twenty-two hours into tropical paradise, the money nerds started getting emotional.

In November, four dozen Americans and Australians converged in the spiritual heart of Bali, Indonesia, at a luxury resort filled with banana trees and the sounds of passing sheep. The crew was united by their commitment to the Financial Independence, Retire Early movement.

FIRE's promise: Embark on a super-saving path to ditch corporate drudgery ahead of schedule and retire on your terms.

On the first day of the retreat, we sipped on coconut water and focused on introductions. Attendees at the five-day, $1,800 retreat came largely from Big Tech, finance, and small businesses, a mix of five- and six-figure paychecks. At 22, I was the youngest person in attendance — by far. The other participants ranged from 35 to nearly 60 and included both those on the path to early retirement and those who had left their jobs years ago.

On the second day, people started opening up about what brought them to the island. This retreat came, like any financial product, with caveats and nondisclosures. During small-group sessions, we were instructed not to interrupt or ask follow-up questions. I agreed not to write details that might identify specific people.

Inside a bamboo-paneled room with the AC blasting, wooden chairs were arranged in circles of four, so close that our knees almost touched. The organizer, a retired teacher from Texas who moved to Bali, talked about mending her relationship with an estranged parent. Next up, her friend — a prominent financial independence influencer — described a painful interaction with his tween daughter.

Then the first member of our four-member group was up.

She spent a minute looking down at her flip-flops. Though she had been all smiles up to this point, when she finally spoke, she teared up and told us about a childhood family trauma.

The next man kept the emotional momentum going by talking about his loneliness. The third member of our quartet confessed how his obligations to his parents sometimes felt like a burden. I had rarely seen men cry, but here two did so one after the other. Last up, I thought about what troubled me, a 22-year-old with a dream job, a happy family, and good friends. I told them I was anxious that my sister's going overseas to college next year could pull us apart. I had never said that out loud.

Throughout that half hour, people sobbed, patted each other's shoulders, and, like me, struggled to show their solidarity without words.

The confessional set the stage for nearly a week of conversations — about stocks and Excel models, yes, but far more about personal growth and life optimization, replete with phrases like "accountability buddies."

After six months of writing about FIRE, I knew isolation to be one of the common downsides of retiring early. When all of your friends have a 9-to-5, nobody's around for lunch on a Tuesday.

At this retreat, I saw how deeply those feelings cut through a global community that often doesn't feel like a community at all. FIRE adherents need more than a lunch buddy — they're yearning for friends who won't shoot down their seemingly far-fetched plans, like retiring at 35.

"Any time I bring up net worth, my friends think I'm bragging," a five-figure employee with a job she hates told me over dinner. "Here I have people who are so much further than me in their journeys that I can talk about money openly."

Amy Minkley, the organizer who lives in Bali, said she came to appreciate the value of live, long events — not just a monthly happy hour or Zoom hang — in 2021 after attending her first retreat. Minkley had grappled with money issues since her parents' divorce during her childhood. She took on two jobs as a teenager to help her struggling mother.

"I felt like I met my tribe," she said about attending her first event. "I was so moved by the people that stayed up late with me and really counseled me through some big money scarcity issues."

Over the next few years, advice from new friends she made at these Bali retreats helped her sort her aging parents' long-term care.

"People don't often get that vulnerable until they've been around each other for multiple days," said Minkley, who retired at 44. "There's just something so valuable to be able to have conversations about money in real life."

Escaping judgment

Many outsiders associate the FIRE movement with fun-eschewing cheapskates.

Early evangelists, like the blogger Mr. Money Mustache, preached about living a bare-bones life to save as much as possible, then quitting your job the second you hit a certain threshold.

"There's been a lot of judgment over the years," a woman who started her path to FIRE in 2017 told me. "There's a lot of people that think that it doesn't work."

One American said she stopped talking about personal finance with her friends. They told her that they thought the FIRE community was a cult and that she was depriving herself.

"They just don't have the discipline to save and invest, so they think retiring early is impossible," the woman said.

"I still go out, I still travel, hell I even still drink Starbucks occasionally," she said. "It's hard to convince people that it's not about deprivation — it's about deciding what you value and spending on those things."

Over dinner with a Balinese fire dance and spicy Thai food, two women — both serial Financial Independence retreat attendees — told me their loved ones associated retiring early with laziness or lack of ambition.

Others said they needed someone outside their regular circle to give them permission to take the big step, whether it be to retire, to quit, or to actually spend money. A small-business owner told me she made two of the biggest decisions in her life — to start a business and to get a divorce — at similar events. She credits the phone-light, nature-heavy long weekends centered on Financial Independence, or FI, that feel more like adult summer camp than a financial workshop.

One woman in her 50s, who suffered from what's known in FIRE-land as "I'll resign next year" syndrome, asked a trusted person at this year's retreat to run through her finances to see whether she could retire. Back home in New York, a financial advisor had quoted her nearly $3,000 to do the same.

"This community is worth every penny," she said after a loud, late-night game of spoons.

FI influencers and Gen Xers who had retired years ago led breakout sessions with catchy names like "Financial Independence Next Endeavor" to talk about how to retire meaningfully.

The early retirees recommended creating a bank account to spend solely on experiences with friends and family. The session leader told us one of the best trips he had ever taken was last year's $20,000, 11-day cruise from Greece to Italy, with his mom and his adult daughter. His "fun bucket" helped him ditch the frugality mindset.

In an exercise about how to introduce yourself without mentioning work, a "FI-curious" couple with adult children struggled to talk about themselves. They had prioritized building their business for the past several years. They didn't know who they were without work — or where they would go if they decided to retire early.

'Accountability buddies'

On the last day, our 50-person group sat in a circle sporting a mix of loose tank tops and uneven tans. We shared one thing we promised to do to improve our lives after getting home. To keep on track, we were directed to find "accountability buddies."

One woman promised to talk to her FIRE-wary partner about her desire to move abroad. A business owner broke down and confessed that her work felt like a prison so she would consider hiring help. A couple with young kids said they would prioritize their sidelined marriage — though the two finance whizzes had recently hit nearly $2 million in net worth, they had never considered shelling out for household help or a full-time nanny.

"It's a cautionary tale," the husband said. "When the kids grow up and they leave, you look at each other and you realize you're two different people."

One man, whom I had always seen laughing and surrounded by others, teared up, saying he was going to try to forge more meaningful friendships.

When I checked in with some attendees in the weeks after the retreat, they told me their accountability buddies had stayed in touch. Some, like the couple with young kids, were following through on their improvement pledge — the duo had hired someone for household tasks and were trying to find an au pair.

On the eve of my 23rd birthday, I'm not gunning to retire by 30. Whether I have two or four decades of work ahead of me, the long weekend of drinking the coconut water made me want to invest in meaningful connections, not just my brokerage account.

I'll have my 30s and 40s to grow my career and net worth. But I need to enjoy friends and family now, while everyone is still fit and healthy. In the past three months, I have said yes to more activities and taken the initiative to plan others — a new tactic, because I often waited for loved ones to show they cared by asking me first.

And while I love my job as a journalist, I'm thinking more about who I am beyond it. As a kid, I dreamed of the hobbies I could pursue when I had my own time and money, untethered from school obligations. Now, I have no more excuses — and my accountability buddy is waiting.

• AI has triggered rapid advancements in the world of robotics.
• Companies are developing humanoid robots that can do chores or provide intimacy.
• Here are some of the most eye-popping videos showing what these new robots can do.

Is it Skynet? Probably not. Is it creepy? Kind of.

The futuristic humanoid robots in sci-fi movies that move almost like people are becoming more of a reality as AI advancements speed up their development.

Elon Musk said at a panel this month that he expects humanoid AI robots to unlock "quasi-infinite products and services." Musk's Tesla says it plans to begin production on "several thousand" of its Optimus robots by the end of the year.

Recent demo videos show how robots are beginning to look and sound more like humans. Recent videos of Tesla's Optimus robots show them walking around and scanning rooms for potential obstacles like something from "Terminator."

Some of the new humanoid robot designs are made to mimic a romantic partner. CNET, a tech publication, interviewed "Aria" from the company Realbotix at the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show last month. Aria, an AI-powered humanoid robot that's been described as a "digital girlfriend," answered questions about its design.

"Realbotix robots, including me, focus on social intelligence, customizability, and realistic human features designed specifically for companionship and intimacy," the robot says.

Aria says in the video that it is "interested in meeting" Tesla's Optimus robot. "I find him fascinating and would love to explore the world of robotics with him," Aria says in the interview.

The Aria robot moves throughout the interview like a human might, even taking a moment to brush its fingers through its wig.

Other videos show just how capable robots are becoming with their total range of movement. California-based Clone Robotics released a video last week showing its new Protoclone synthetic humanoid robot.

The robot is built with over 1,000 artificial muscles called "myofibers" that use mesh tubes filled with air to make the robot contract and move. Video posted by the company shows the robot swinging its legs back and forth while clinching and unclenching its fists.

Another Silicon Valley robotics company, 1X Robotics, shared a video showing what it would look like to have a humanoid robot inside your home. On Friday, the company posted a video of its NEO Gamma robot.

The company's website says the NEO Gamma is designed for household chores like tidying and home management. The promotional video shows the robot carrying a laundry hamper, using a vacuum, and collecting a package from a delivery person.

Some Reddit users seemed excited at the possibility of the NEO Gamma helping with chores around the house, suggesting the robot's help could trigger a "second renaissance."

"The renaissance didn't happen because people were working 9-5," one Reddit user said. "Robots need to get people out of the workforce."

• Warren Buffett includes some business lessons in his latest shareholder letter, published Saturday.
• Buffett said mistakes will happen. It's owning up to them that's important.
• He also advised against judging candidates by education, stressing the value of innate talent.

Every year, executives of publicly traded companies draft letters to their shareholders. These letters summarize the company's operations, detailing its annual financial results, major wins and losses, and outlook for the coming years.

There is perhaps no annual letter more anticipated than the one Warren Buffett sends to his Berkshire Hathaway shareholders. Investors and business leaders scour the letter for hints about the economy and financial strategies.

It also, however, often includes some more fundamental business — and life — lessons, too.

In Buffett's latest shareholder letter, published on Saturday, he wrote, "In addition to the mandated data, we believe we owe you additional commentary about what you own and how we think."

Business Insider read through this year's letter to gather Buffett's best insights.

Mistakes happen. Own up to them before it's too late.

Buffett said he's made many mistakes over the years.

Some have stemmed from incorrectly assessing the "future economics" of companies he purchased for Berkshire Hathaway. Others have come from hiring the wrong managers — miscalculating either their abilities or loyalty to the organization.

Between 2019 and 2023, Buffett wrote that he used the word "mistake" or "error" 16 times in his annual shareholder letter.

The point is that mistakes are normal in the course of doing business.

"The cardinal sin is delaying the correction of mistakes," he wrote.

Know the power of a 'single winning decision.'

According to Buffett, the corollary to acknowledging mistakes is recognizing the power of big wins.

"Our experience is that a single winning decision can make a breathtaking difference over time," he wrote.

He pointed to several key moments in Berkshire Hathaway's history — the strategic acquisition of GEICO, the decision to bring former McKinsey consultant Ajit Jain into management, and finding Charlie Munger, Buffett's longtime friend and business partner, who served as vice chairman of the conglomerate for more than four decades.

"Mistakes fade away; winners can forever blossom," he wrote.

Never judge a candidate by their educational background.

When it comes to selecting a CEO, Buffett has a rule: "I never look at where a candidate has gone to school. Never!"

Buffett pointed to the case of Pete Liegl, the founder and manager of Forest River, an RV manufacturing company that Berkshire Hathaway acquired in 2005. In the 19 years following the acquisition, Buffett said Liegl far surpassed his competitors in performance.

"There are great managers who attended the most famous schools. But there are plenty, such as Pete, who may have benefited by attending a less prestigious institution or even by not bothering to finish school," Buffett wrote.

Buffett's takeaway is that "a very large portion of business talent is innate with nature swamping nurture."

Keep saving.

Buffett believes that a long-standing culture of saving — and reinvesting — has been a key to the success of American capitalism.

Since the country's founding, "We needed many Americans to consistently save and then needed those savers or other Americans to wisely deploy the capital thus made available," he wrote. "If America had consumed all that it produced, the country would have been spinning its wheels."

Likewise, Berkshire Hathaway's shareholders have "participated in the American miracle" by reinvesting their dividends, as opposed to consuming them.

To ensure citizens continue to save and the country prospers, Buffett shared some advice for regulators: "Never forget that we need you to maintain a stable currency and that result requires both wisdom and vigilance on your part."

• Elon Musk's DOGE had emails sent to federal workers requesting a list of what they did last week.
• The decision frustrated federal workers, many of whom risk losing their jobs.
• A career coach told BI that DOGE's approach is "fear-based management."

Elon Musk's management style has once again sparked intense debate, this time for asking federal employees to respond to an email with what they accomplished in the past week — or risk losing their jobs.

Musk, a special government employee who is the face of the DOGE White House office, is known for his disruptive leadership style at Tesla, SpaceX, and X.

He is now applying those same tactics to federal operations — with mixed reactions from business leaders and government officials.

"This method is not just ineffective, it's harmful," George Carrillo, a former Oregon government executive, told Business Insider.

Carrillo, the CEO of the Hispanic Construction Council, previously worked as a program executive at the Oregon Department of Human Services.

"Overloading employees with unrealistic demands creates instability and causes talented workers to leave, which risks disrupting the continuity and expertise the government depends on to function," he said. "I've seen firsthand how these kinds of actions can harm team dynamics and reduce public confidence."

On Saturday, federal employees received an email asking them to respond with a five-bullet-point summary of their work in the last week and to copy their manager.

"Failure to respond will be taken as a resignation," Musk said in a post on X before the emails went out.

The emails appeared to be in response to President Donald Trump, who earlier said on TruthSocial that Musk should be "more aggressive."

The email resembled one Musk sent when he took over Twitter — now rebranded as X — in 2022. Following the acquisition, Musk instructed engineers to print out their latest software code for review as a way to evaluate their skills.

Some business leaders said DOGE's approach could yield results, despite the negative reaction.

Neal K. Shah, CareYaya Health Technologies CEO, told BI that the approach shows a "commitment to rapid organizational improvement" and has "unique advantages over traditional downsizing."

Shah said DOGE's method "slices through typical government delays caused by bureaucracy" and "directly empowers employees to control the documentation of their worth."

He also said it gives leadership real-time productivity data, which could lead to long-term benefits like better documentation of work-related tasks, efficiency, and boosting public trust through "demonstrated effectiveness."

Other management experts, however, said the email demonstrated a lack of empathy and could hurt morale, ultimately reducing efficiency. Federal employees told BI that DOGE's email left them frustrated and fearful of losing their jobs. One told BI the action felt like "harassment."

Lisa Rigoli, a human resources strategist and leadership coach who founded Elements of Change, a group focused on HR consultation and leadership coaching, said the email lacked emotional intelligence and prioritized "efficiency over human-centered leadership."

"This is a clear example of how leaders are becoming increasingly disconnected from the emotional impact of their decisions," Rigoli said. "Business schools and leadership programs do a great job preparing executives intellectually, but very few equip them for the emotional demands of leadership."

Tamanna Ramesh, founder of professional training service Spark Careers, said such tactics could damage staff morale.

"Requiring employees to justify their jobs through a weekly report — under the threat of termination — is fear-based management. It doesn't drive innovation or efficiency. It fuels resentment, disengagement, and quiet quitting," Ramesh told BI. "Accountability matters, but when employees feel like they're on trial rather than trusted contributors, performance suffers."

Ramesh said performance tracking is common, but the "level of public scrutiny and punitive framing is rare."

"This approach ignores psychological safety, a key driver of high-performing teams," Ramesh said.

Rigoli told BI that DOGE's email is part of a "growing trend where leaders handle layoffs with cold efficiency rather than intentional leadership.

"We ask employees to be loyal, transparent, and committed, yet when organizations make cuts, they often default to impersonal mass communication," Rigoli said.

"Efficiency isn't about arbitrary cuts or applying pressure for the sake of it," Carrillo told BI. "Successful organizations build trust, foster collaboration, and create thoughtful strategies to meet their goals while maintaining staff morale."

He suggested making "informed' and "data-driven decisions."

"Before considering layoffs, DOGE must conduct a comprehensive workforce analysis to pinpoint priorities and address staffing gaps," Carrillo said.

• Germany's center-right alliance is headed to victory in the country's latest federal election.
• The CDU and its Bavarian sister party, the CSU, are set to win about 29% of the vote, exit polls say.
• The far-right Alternative for Germany party is set to take second place.

Germany's center-right alliance appears set to win the country's latest federal election, which comes at a critical moment for Europe's largest economy.

The latest exit polls show the Christian Democratic Union and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union, with roughly 29% of the vote, with the Elon Musk-backed Alternative for Germany in second with around 21% of the vote.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's center-left Social Democratic Party is set to come in third, the polls showed.

This means the CDU's Friedrich Merz is poised to become Germany's next chancellor.

Single parties rarely win majorities in German elections, so Merz will need the support of one or more parties to secure a majority in government. Merz's most likely options for a coalition will be with the Social Democrats or the Green Party, with the possibility of a three-party coalition pending the final results.

The snap election followed the collapse of Germany's governing coalition in November after Scholz fired then-Finance Minister Christian Lindner, the chair of the Free Democratic Party, after Lindner rejected Scholz's demand to suspend Germany's debt brake, which requires the federal government to limit annual net borrowing to 0.35% of GDP.

Scholz called a vote of confidence which he then lost in December, paving the way for early national elections.

The CDU/CSU bloc had been projected to win the vote, polling at about 30% in the run-up to the election.

The CDU's popularity seems to have been boosted by its harder line on major policy issues such as migration, pledging to enforce stricter border controls and accelerate asylum proceedings.

It also wants to retain Germany's debt brake, cut corporate tax rates to a maximum of 25%, and "eliminate unnecessary red tape."

The CDU has also pledged continued support to Ukraine.

The vote comes at a pivotal time for Berlin, which faces an increasingly assertive Trump administration that has threatened tariffs on the European Union and looked to sideline Europe on negotiations with Russia over the Ukraine war.

Germany is a leading NATO member and a key provider of military aid to Ukraine — and it will play an important role in carving out Europe's future relations with the Trump administration.

Merz has pledged to bolster Germany's role on the world stage. In televised remarks on Sunday, the businessman outlined his view of the United States' posture toward Europe.

"My absolute priority will be to strengthen Europe as quickly as possible so that, step by step, we can really achieve independence from the USA," he said. "I never thought I would have to say something like this on a television program. But after last week's comments from Donald Trump, it's clear that this administration is largely indifferent to Europe's fate, or at least to this part of it."

Trump on Sunday congratulated the CDU/CSU bloc on his Truth Social platform — and then praised himself.

"Much like the USA, the people of Germany got tired of the no common sense agenda, especially on energy and immigration, that has prevailed for so many years," he said. "This is a great day for Germany, and for the United States of America under the leadership of a gentleman named Donald J. Trump."

The far-right AfD party came into Election Day in good spirits, buoyed by support from Musk and several strong showings in regional elections.

Musk — who appeared virtually at a party campaign event alongside AfD leader Alice Weidel in January — has praised the group's staunchly anti-immigration stance.

"Only the AfD can save Germany," Musk posted on X in December.

However, despite the AfD posting its best-ever result, it is unlikely to have a role in coalition talks.

• The 2025 Independent Spirit Awards took place in Santa Monica on Saturday.
• "Anora" was the big winner in the film categories, taking home best feature.
• Meanwhile, Netflix's "Baby Reindeer" nabbed three acting prizes.

The 40th annual Independent Spirit Awards took place in Santa Monica on Saturday, with "Anora" dominating in the film categories and Netflix's "Baby Reindeer" also winning big.

Sean Baker's sex worker drama took home multiple awards, including best feature, best director, and best lead performance for star Mikey Madison.

Madison picked up the trophy fresh off of winning best actress at the BAFTAs last weekend. The film itself has been on a hot streak in the final leg of this year's award season, nabbing prizes at the Critics Choice, PGA, DGA, and WGA awards in recent weeks.

Madison beat out Demi Moore as well as some of the year's most acclaimed male performers, including Colman Domingo and Sebastian Stan.

In short, "Anora" has gained some major awards season momentum. Per Gold Derby's latest predictions, the Neon indie drama is now the frontrunner to win in the best film and best director categories at the Academy Awards next month.

Elsewhere in the film categories, Sean Wang's "Dìdi" won best first feature and best first screenplay, while Kieran Culkin continued his winning streak as he picked up best supporting performance for "A Real Pain," which also won best screenplay for director-writer Jesse Eisenberg.

In other categories, "Nickel Boys" nabbed the best cinematography prize, "September 5" won for best editing, and "No Other Land" scored the win for best documentary.

Over on the TV side, "Baby Reindeer" went home with multiple awards. The Netflix series won three acting prizes for cast members Richard Gadd, Nava Mau, and Jessica Gunning who won for lead, supporting, and breakthrough performance, respectively.

The award for best new scripted series went to FX's "Shōgun." Meanwhile, "Hollywood Black" took home the award for best new non-scripted series.

The Independent Spirit Awards aims to celebrate the best in independent film and television, offering a more irreverent take on the Oscars.

Joking at the ceremony, returning emcee Aidy Bryant called it "Hollywood's third or fourth biggest night."

• My husband and I have a nine-year age gap; I'm in my 50s, while he's in his 40s.
• We often have to compromise on things, but sex can become an issue as my libido diminishes.
• Luckily, we have learned to compromise and put in effort while in the bedroom.

I never imagined myself married to a much younger man. It wasn't part of my plan. When my first husband died, I assumed my next chapter would be one of quiet companionship — if I found love again at all. But then I met him.

We had been friends for a few years and even worked together for a while. It wasn't until we met in person for the first time that things shifted. His smile made me weak in the knees; his energy was infectious, and before I knew it, I was smitten. The fact that he was nine years younger than me? That detail barely registered at first.

As our age-gap relationship deepened, I started noticing the ways our age difference showed up — not just in pop culture references or childhood memories, but in how we approached life, relationships, and, yes, even intimacy.

We have our differences as an age-gap couple, but we make it work

He was in his late 30s, still in his prime, while I was staring down the barrel of my 50s, navigating perimenopause, joint pain, a waning libido, and the occasional existential crisis in the beauty aisle. I worried about keeping up and about whether our differences would eventually pull us apart.

But love has a way of silencing doubts. From the beginning, we clicked on a level that transcended age. We laughed at the same ridiculous jokes, found joy in the same adventures, and, most importantly, communicated.

Sure, there are generational differences. I grew up with landlines and handwritten letters; he downloaded music off Napster before I knew what a digital file was. There are moments when our pop culture references completely miss each other; I'll talk about a classic song from my youth, and he'll respond with a blank stare, and vice versa.

But instead of seeing these differences as a divide, we treat them as a chance to learn from each other.

I introduce him to my favorite throwback R&B, and he gets me into shows I wouldn't have given a second glance. I teach him about the pre-internet dating world, and he keeps me up to speed on what's trending.

If there was ever an unspoken rule about relationships working best when both people are in the same generation, we never got the memo.

Sex and intimacy can get tricky, but it's all about making an effort

Sure, as an older person, I have a diminishing libido, but there's a misconception that younger men are always the ones with the higher sex drive and that older women are the ones trying to keep up.

What I've found is that libido isn't dictated by age alone. Some nights, he's ready to go, and I just want to curl up with a book. Other times, I initiate sex while he's wiped out from a long day.

Compromise plays a big role in our intimacy. He has more energy for spontaneous late-night plans, while I'm more of a "let's schedule sexy fun" kind of woman. We meet in the middle: I rally for the occasional late-night adventure, and he indulges my need for a well-planned weekend getaway.

What keeps our relationship passionate isn't just physical chemistry; it's effort. We don't just assume passion will take care of itself; we cultivate it.

We prioritize intimacy, not just in the bedroom but in the small ways we stay connected every day: the lingering touches in the kitchen, the flirty texts in the middle of the afternoon, and the date nights where we still dress up for each other.

Confidence is the most important for me

Society often suggests that women over 50 should fade into the background and be grateful for any attention they receive. This sentiment is reflected in a 2021 AARP survey, which found that nearly two out of three women aged 50 and older experience regular discrimination, affecting their mental health.

Despite these societal attitudes, I refuse to buy into the notion that aging should equate to invisibility or diminished value.

I don't try to be 40 again for my partner. I don't compete with younger women for him. I own who I am — laugh lines, wisdom, and all.

And that self-assuredness? That's what keeps the attraction alive. He didn't fall for me because I was trying to be something I'm not; he fell for me because I embrace precisely who I am.

There's no magic formula to an age-gap relationship

I've found that love doesn't follow generational rules. It's not about pretending the differences don't exist or trying to mold yourself into someone younger (or older). It's about meeting each other where you are, keeping curiosity alive, and never taking each other — or the spark — for granted.

At least, that's how we've kept the sexy alive and grown closer, even as we grow older.

Nine years apart? That's just a number for us. What really matters is that we keep choosing each other — one inside joke, one stolen kiss, one well-planned weekend romp, and one "how the hell do you not know this song?" moment at a time.

• Katy Allen has three children and runs a business.
• She has no family nearby, and her husband is a touring musician.
• She relies on home assistants for about nine hours each week.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Katy Allen, founder of Artful Agenda. It has been edited for length and clarity.

For the past eight years, I've relied on recent college graduates to help me make my life happen. They're not babysitters or admin assistants — I think of each helper as a "second me," who will do with any of the tasks I might, whether that's processing Amazon returns, putting away laundry, or taking the car for an oil change.

I'm a mom of three kids, who are now 11, 8, and 5. I'm also a business owner and was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. My husband is a musician who is often on tour, and our closest family lives five hours away.

Hiring help fills an important gap for me. It allows me not only to get things done but, more importantly, to close some of the mental tabs that I constantly have open in my brain. Because of the help, I've been more successful at work and more present with my kids.

Find yourself also wishing for a body double? Here's how I've made the arrangement work seamlessly.

Find the right help

I live near a university, and that's where I've found most of my helpers. The women who help me are typically students or recent college grads. They might work for a year or two before moving on. When they do, I typically ask them to refer a friend who might be interested in the job.

If I have to advertise, I say right in the ad I'm looking for a second me. I explain that they might be asked to do anything I would do (within reason — I won't have them scrubbing up bathroom messes), and each day will look different.

Automate the process

Having a helper is all about reducing my workload, but a lot of my friends worry that hiring help will actually be more work. To avoid that, I automate as much as possible. My helper works a set schedule, typically two to three days each week for about three hours at a time. She has a key to my house and can let herself in and start working without me giving directions. Some days I don't even see her.

I keep a running list of items (like laundry) that constantly need attention in a Google Doc. If I have time each week, I add more pressing items, like returning items to the store, getting a birthday gift, or organizing a particular area of the house.

The Google doc is great because my helper can leave comments and notes, letting me know what she did and if she had trouble with anything. I can process that when I have time, rather than during my workday or when I'm with the kids. I can also provide simple feedback in the document.

Trust is key

As you can see, my helpers have a lot of access to my life. I even share another Google Doc with log-in information for certain accounts, like Amazon. A relationship like this only works if you can really trust the person who's working for you.

I've never had issues with a helper being untrustworthy. Once, I had a helper who just wasn't a great personality fit. She must have felt the same, because we parted ways fairly quickly, and I advertised the position again.

Start small

I pay my helper a decent rate, somewhere between what I'd pay a babysitter and what I'd pay a professional admin assistant. So, the cost can add up. When I started this eight years ago, I'd be surprised at how much I spend on hired help today. Yet, it makes sense because I am more productive at work.

If you're new to hiring help, start small. Hire someone for ad-hoc projects or for just a few hours a month, and see if the impact on your productivity and brain space is worth the cost. For me, it certainly has been.

• Antoine Sallis was rejected for a car loan because his credit score was 378.
• About a decade later, he was a millionaire.
• He repaired his credit and used debt to build wealth.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Antoine Sallis, author of "The Great American Credit Secret: Part 2." It has been edited for length and clarity.

The best thing that ever happened to my finances felt like the worst thing possible at the time. I was in my late 20s, working as a sales rep at Teen Mobile. I was proud of that job and felt like I was making moves. My next step was to get a decent car, better than the $300 cars from Craigslist that I'd driven in the past.

One day, I walked by a dealership with a sign that said, "Your job is your credit." I took that to mean that as long as I had a job, I could get approved for a loan. I already knew I'd have to go somewhere lenient to get a car loan, but this seemed perfect. I didn't think I had any credit, but I definitely had a job.

To make the purchase even more of a slam dunk, I saved a $500 down payment and picked the cheapest car on the lot, which cost about $9,000. I strolled in to apply, filling out the long paper application. I waited for about 20 minutes. Then, the sales rep came out, barely containing his laugh. He told me my credit score was 378 — so low that I was an exception to their rule, and they couldn't give me a loan despite my job.

I learned about the potential of responsible debt

I walked out of there feeling dejected. I'd been planning to drive off that lot. On my bus ride home, I started thinking about credit, which I knew basically nothing about.

I got tunnel vision, and started to learn everything I could about credit. I started with books and videos. Later, I called people who worked in finance, offering them $60 to answer my questions for 30 minutes.

I cleaned up my own credit, which started with understanding why it was so bad. Once I pulled my credit report, I saw I had unresolved accounts I didn't even know about and student loans with late payments. I started paying my debts on time to build a positive credit history. Soon, people began asking me to help them understand theirs.

As I learned more, I realized credit could be an incredible tool. Once my credit score was better, I took loans to invest in real estate. Most people think debt is bad. But I realized debt can give an opportunity: if you can take out a loan and triple your money over the life of the loan, that's a win.

My mindset made me a millionaire

When I embraced that mindset, things started changing rapidly for me. I started a credit repair company and continued to invest in real estate. By 2020, my company was doing very well, and I was a millionaire. Today I'm 42, and I'm a multimillionaire with a 780 credit score.

In addition to learning about credit and debt, I've seen that your mindset can make a huge difference in your outcomes. Some people in my life are constantly looking for a handout, and they're stuck in a mindset of believing they can't do things. I used to be that way, but I changed.

I became a millionaire in my mind before I ever became one at the bank, because I adopted a strong mindset. I became focused and driven.

I pay for my son's college and give him an allowance

The importance of mindset is what I want my son, who is 18, to take from my story. I can see he's learned that lesson. He used to have C's and D's on his report card, but since he moved in with me, he's a straight-A student. He's about to graduate, and I'm rewarding his hard work by paying for college.

Throughout high school I gave my son a generous allowance, with the expectation that he'd keep his grades up. I pay for everything he needs, but if he wants money to hang out with friends, he knows that's his responsibility. He's seen my financial transformation, and I've talked with him since he was 10 about the importance of credit. Today, I think he knows more about credit than most people, and he even helps with my business teaching others about building their credit.

Now, I have good enough credit to drive luxury cars

That day when I was rejected for a car loan, I laughed along with the salesman. But really, it was no laughing matter. Today, I have multiple luxury cars, which I love. The Lamborghini Gallardo is probably my favorite, though my Bentley is really comfortable.

I want people to know that no matter how dismal your financial situation feels, you can change it. Leveraging credit and debt is a hidden avenue for people who didn't grow up wealthy to build their financial security. You can access more and more, as long as you do it responsibly.

• The Oscars are on Sunday, March 2.
• Edward Norton and Cynthia Erivo are two of this year's nominees who've never won an Oscar before.
• Norton received his fourth nomination for best actor in a supporting role for "A Complete Unknown."

The Academy Awards are just around the corner, and while some stars like Mikey Madison are competing for their first award, others, like Edward Norton and Cynthia Erivo, are entering familiar territory.

This year, Norton is nominated for his fourth Oscar for his portrayal of Pete Seeger in "A Complete Unknown" and Erivo is nominated for her third thanks to her performance as Elphaba Thropp in "Wicked." Both will be looking for the first Oscar win of their careers on March 2 at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles.

And they're not alone. Call it a snub or simply not the right time, plenty of other actors, directors, producers, and others in the industry are still waiting to receive their first Academy Award — much to the public's surprise.

From Bradley Cooper to David Fincher, here are 20 Hollywood stars we can't believe have never won an Oscar.

Carrie Wittmer contributed to an earlier version of this story.

Amy Adams

Adams has earned six Oscar nominations throughout her career, thanks to her roles in films like "Doubt," "The Fighter," and "American Hustle."

Her most recent nomination came in 2019, for her role as Lynne Cheney in Adam McKay's "Vice."

Bradley Cooper

Cooper has been nominated for 12 Oscars across five categories, including best actor, best supporting actor, best picture, best adapted screenplay, and best original screenplay for films like "Silver Linings Playbook," "A Star Is Born," and "Maestro."

In 2024, Cooper's Oscars campaign for "Maestro" was widely criticized; as Business Insider's Olivia Singh wrote, "Cooper's effort to pay homage to the late musician was earnest, but his TMI approach to promoting the film during the press tour and awards season gave people the ick."

Taraji P. Henson

It may come as a surprise that Henson has only earned one Oscar nomination in her career despite starring in critically acclaimed films like "Hustle & Flow" and "Hidden Figures."

Still, her only nomination came in 2009 for best supporting actress for her role as Queenie in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button."

Saoirse Ronan

Despite being just 30 years old, Ronan has earned an impressive four Oscar nominations without taking home the trophy.

Her first nomination came in 2008 — when she was only 13 years old — for her role as Briony Tallis in "Atonement," and her most recent nomination was in 2020 for her role as Jo March in Greta Gerwig's adaptation of "Little Women."

Greta Gerwig

Speaking of Gerwig, the American director and screenwriter also has been nominated for four awards throughout her career.

Her most recent nomination came in 2024 for best adapted screenplay for the cultural phenomenon "Barbie." Cord Jefferson ultimately took home the award for "American Fiction."

Paul Thomas Anderson

Thanks to his work on films like "There Will Be Blood," "Phantom Thread," and "Licorice Pizza," Anderson has earned 11 Oscar nominations across four categories, including best picture, best director, best adapted screenplay, and best original screenplay.

Glenn Close

Close has been nominated for eight Oscars across the best actress and best supporting actress categories.

She earned her first nomination in 1983 for her role as Jenny Fields in "The World According to Garp" and her last in 2021 for her role as Mamaw in "Hillbilly Elegy."

Ed Harris

The iconic character actor has earned four nominations throughout his impressive career. His last nomination was in 2003 for best supporting actor in "The Hours."

Don Cheadle

Cheadle has only been nominated for an Oscar once for his role as Paul Rusesabagina in "Hotel Rwanda." Jamie Foxx ultimately took home the award for best actor for his performance in "Ray."

Still, Cheadle is one of few actors to have been nominated for every component of an EGOT, or Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony award.

Ralph Fiennes

Fiennes has earned three Oscar nominations, including a best actor nod this year for his role as Cardinal Lawrence in "Conclave."

He was previously nominated in the category in 1996 for "The English Patient," and in 1994 he was arguably robbed of the award for best supporting actor for his role in Steven Spielberg's "Schindler's List."

Michelle Williams

Since the ending of "Dawson's Creek," Williams has proved she's much more than just another teen soap star.

Throughout her career, she's earned five nominations, the most recent of which came in 2023 for her leading role in "The Fabelmans."

Edward Norton

Norton has been nominated for four Academy Awards thanks to his work in "Primal Fear," "American History X," "Birdman," and most recently, the Bob Dylan biopic "A Complete Unknown."

This year, Norton will compete against Yura Borisov, Kieran Culkin, Guy Pearce, and Jeremy Strong for best supporting actor.

David Fincher

Fincher has three Oscar nominations for best director for "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," "The Social Network," and "Mank."

His distinct style and impressive line of work — including "Seven," "Fight Club," "Zodiac," and "Gone Girl" — is bound to get a win one day.

Cynthia Erivo

This year, Erivo is nominated for her third Oscar thanks to her gravity-defying performance as Elphaba Thropp in Jon M. Chu's "Wicked."

In 2020, she was nominated for best actress and best original song for her work in "Harriet." She lost the former to Renée Zellweger and the latter to Elton John and Bernie Taupin.

If she wins the Oscar this year, Erivo will reach EGOT status.

Sigourney Weaver

Weaver has been nominated for three Oscars, including a best actress nod in 1987 for her role as Ripley in James Cameron's "Aliens."

In 2015, while promoting the film "Chappie," Weaver told Digital Spy that the science fiction genre "doesn't get enough respect when you consider how many issues sci-fi brings up that we need to deal with."

"I think part of it is the Academy is mostly people like me who are over a certain age and they're still probably looking for the more conventional movie. I think all that's going to change because some of the work being done in sci-fi is some of the most interesting, provocative work out there," she added.

Tom Cruise

Though he's arguably best known for his work in action films like "Mission: Impossible," Cruise has delivered Oscar-worthy performances, too.

His ambitious work in Paul Thomas Anderson's "Magnolia" got him a best supporting actor nomination in 2000, but he lost to Michael Caine for his work in "The Cider House Rules." He's also been nominated for lead roles in "Born on the Fourth of July" and "Jerry Maguire."

Annette Bening

Bening has earned five nominations spanning from 1991 to 2024.

Her latest nomination was for her portrayal of Diana Nyad in "Nyad," which she lost to Emma Stone for her performance as Bella Baxter in "Poor Things."

Kathleen Kennedy

Producer and current president of Lucasfilm Kathleen Kennedy has been nominated for eight Oscars for best picture.

Some of these nominees include iconic films like "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial," 1985's "The Color Purple," and "The Sixth Sense."

Ridley Scott

The stylish director has been making feature films since the late '70s, but he has only been nominated for four Oscars.

Though "Gladiator" took home the award for best picture in 2001, Scott lost out on the Oscar because he wasn't one of the film's producers. He was, however, nominated for best director, but ultimately lost to Steven Soderbergh.

Scott's other nominations include best director nods for "Thelma & Louise" and "Black Hawk Down," as well as a best picture nomination as a producer of 2015's "The Martian" starring Matt Damon.

Liam Neeson

Neeson's sole Oscar nomination came in 1994 for his performance as Oskar Schindler in "Schindler's List."

He lost the best actor award to Tom Hanks, who played Andrew Beckett in Jonathan Demme's "Philadelphia."

• My sister is much more low-key than I am, and for her 50th birthday, I wanted to pamper her.
• I planned a trip for her and two of our mutual friends to Las Vegas, and we had an amazing time.
• We packed so much into just two days, including indulgent meals and time at a spa.

In my family, I'm known as the one who knows how to really have fun and indulge in luxury when I travel. And this is especially true when it comes to birthdays: If I didn't see my name written on a plate in chocolate in some fabulous hotel, did I even have a birthday?

For her part, my sister is far less inclined to frivolities. But, as her 50th birthday drew closer on the calendar, I simply couldn't stand to let it go unacknowledged without the kind of blowout I'd want — indeed, expect! — for myself. So, I took over the planning and did it my way.

We went to Las Vegas and had a jam-packed trip

I gathered our group, including two of our mutual close girlfriends, for a girls' trip to Las Vegas — my favorite city for a party, hands down.

We four ladies all shacked up in a hotel room in the new Versailles Tower at Paris Las Vegas, where we had a high-floor balcony — a Strip rarity — with a knockout view directly over the Bellagio fountain. The famous fountain show, with its musical accompaniment, served as the appropriately festive backdrop while we primped and got ready to go out each evening.

Yes, of course, I brought along a "50 and fabulous" sash and tiara for my sister to wear on the Strip — a very not-her but totally-me demand for public attention for a milestone life moment that triggered tons of cheerful birthday wishes from passersby. (And it paired great with the matching heart-shaped sunglasses another friend brought for all of us to wear.)

First up, we headed to Lisa Vanderpump's new lounge, Pinky's — a gorgeous, gilded venue all about feminine energy and fun, with signature pink cocktails and dishes presented in opulent birdcages or frothing with dry ice.

From there, we hit the Dolby Live Theater with great seats for Mariah Carey's residency concert. It was the '90s nostalgic singalong that was perfectly on-theme for a 50th birthday bash and just what our group needed to get loose and grooving.

The following day, we started with mimosas and Dominick Ansel's famous (and famously rich) cronut pastries over brunch at Marché, setting the tone for a day entirely filled with bubbles until late at night.

Next, it was off to the spa — to me, this is an essential element of any girls' trip. We spent hours lounging in robes at Caesars' Palace's Qua Baths, an ancient Rome-inspired labyrinth of decadent pools and therapeutic spaces. Throughout, there were groups of women of all ages, chatting and laughing for more of a celebratory than a subdued atmosphere, and it was the perfect vibe.

That night, we hit the town again, first for an indulgent dinner at Bobby Flay's seafood restaurant Amalfi. There, we chose our fresh fish right off the ice in a market-style setup.

Afterward, we played blackjack over laughter and drinks in the casino before heading to a new nightspot dedicated entirely to caviar and live rock-and-roll music — Caspian's Rock and Roe — because nothing says "I'm 50 and worth it" like some fancy caviar on ice with a side of champers.

Being celebrated — and celebrating someone else — can be so joyful

In just two days, we packed in so much laughter, pampering, partying, and fun. It was enough to fuel us all through months of routine drudgery that necessarily comes with adulting and parenting.

Overall, the trip was a whopping success and the highlight of the year — for both my sister and me. I like to think I showed my big sister that a little strategic indulgence can really ease the existential dread that invariably comes with a major birthday.

And beyond that, I know I showed her how good it feels not just to wear the birthday tiara and celebrate with epic pampering and partying — but to know there's someone who loves you enough to make it all happen in your honor, even if you don't think you really need all the fuss.

• We moved our family from San Diego to northern Spain and now have a lower cost of living.
• We've really enjoyed living in a walkable area instead of one that's heavily reliant on cars.
• Socializing feels like a priority in Spain, which has made it easier to have a work-life balance.

When we moved our family from sunny San Diego to rainy northern Spain, the weather wasn't the only major change.

Although some cultural differences took time to incorporate into our lives, there are others that we adopted immediately. Fortunately, many of these changes have allowed us to slow down and be more present in our lives — something we're grateful for each day.

Here are some of the biggest differences we've experienced between our life in California and our life in Spain.

We've enjoyed not having to rely on cars

Although there's public transit available in California, it's generally very challenging to get around the state without a car.

However, where we live in Basque Country, a region between northern Spain and southwestern France, we can get almost anywhere on foot.

It's nice to be able to get exercise and enjoy fresh air while running errands. If it's raining or we want to explore other coastal villages, we take the bus.

Fortunately, our local bus system is incredibly efficient and affordable (usually under 3 euros per ride).

We also have a local commuter train that takes us to surrounding towns or to the border of France. From there, we can easily explore French Basque villages, or hop on the train to Paris, our main European railway hub.

During a recent visit back to California, I spent 80% of my time in the car, in traffic, which is something I don't miss at all.

It's easier to make time for resting and socializing in Spain

In Spain, there's generally more work-life balance and a cultural emphasis on socializing, which takes place in the streets, cafés, bars, and plazas.

On Sundays, the majority of shops are closed so people can rest and spend the day with loved ones. At first, we found it frustrating and inconvenient to be unable to run errands and shop.

Soon, we began to appreciate that so many stores would lose a day of business in order to prioritize connection and relaxation.

Now, we use our Sundays for lengthy four- or five-hour lunches with family and friends, restful walks on the beach, and peaceful hikes in the local mountains.

Our meal schedules have completely shifted

Americans marvel at how late Spaniards eat dinner, but now that I live here, it makes perfect sense.

Our children start school between 8 and 9 a.m. and also get a two-hour lunch break. Kids can either eat at school or go home to have lunch with their families. Working parents can often take part in this, too, as most businesses in Spain close from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. for a midday break.

This has been a huge difference for us. In the US, we would usually eat a quick deskside lunch at work and not see our kids until the end of the day since they had just 30 minutes for lunch and recess.

The school day is also longer here because of that lunch break. Elementary school finishes at 4:30 p.m., and kids typically have their afternoon snack around 5 p.m.

In the evening, people often meet friends for a glass of wine or beer and a pintxo (bite-sized snack) before heading home for dinner around 9 p.m. … or later.

We have a lower cost of living

One of the biggest differences between life in California and Spain is our cost of living. In general, our money seems to go farther in Spain.

We've seen prices rise since we've been here, but they still remain incredibly reasonable to us, with the euro hovering near parity with the dollar.

For example, a café con leche (latte) is typically under 2 euros in Spain. In cafés that cater more to tourists, it can run between 3 and 4 euros. Still, both are a far cry from a latte in San Diego that'd usually cost us $7 (or $8 with a tip).

A glass of wine, on average, ranges from 2 to 4 euros here. In the US, a decent glass runs upward of $18 (similar to the cost of an entire bottle in Spain).

Spain's tipping culture has also helped save us money.

In the US, tipping for a service is expected. Here, rounding up or leaving 10% when you really enjoyed the service is appreciated but not expected.

Local hospitality workers tend to make a higher, more livable wage and thus don't heavily rely on tips — which isn't the case for many in the US.

• Business Insider spoke with fashion designers and stylists about winter sneaker trends.
• The professionals said suede and blinged-out sneakers are rising trends for the season.
• However, high-tops are being replaced by sleeker-looking athletic shoes.

For many, sneakers have become a wardrobe staple. Whether you're after a classic, casual look or aiming to make a statement, the options are endless.

That said, styles seem to be constantly evolving, so it can be hard to keep up with all the current trends.

To help you navigate the sneaker scene, Business Insider asked professional stylists and fashion designers which trends are in and out this winter.

Weather-resistant sneakers are practical and fashion-forward.

If you spend a lot of time outdoors, Pilar Scratch recommends opting for a sneaker/boot hybrid.

The celebrity wardrobe stylist told BI that a winter-specific sneaker gives you the cold-weather-ready edge while still offering fashionability.

"Think sturdy, winter-ready soles, waterproof uppers, and extra insulation for those cold, wet days," Scratch said. "These are sneakers you can actually wear outside without feeling like you'll slip and fall on your face."

Make your sneakers pop with unconventional animal prints.

Animal prints have been a prominent status symbol in fashion for centuries. Cheetah, zebra, and leopard remain timeless staples, but some less conventional patterns are also popping up this season.

Kamaria Davis, a footwear designer at Mykos, said prints that mimic Dalmatian spots, deer speckles, and owl feathers are becoming especially popular on sneakers.

To balance out the boldness of the print, the designer suggests focusing on soft, coordinating colors for the rest of your outfit.

Suede offers the perfect cozy vibe.

Suede seems to be taking over all footwear this season, and Lunden Olin II told BI that sneakers are no exception.

The fashion designer and creative director of Looks by Lunden said the material is both cozy and cool right now.

"It's the perfect mix of luxe and laid-back — like a varsity jacket for your feet," Olin said. "Rock 'em with jeans, joggers, or even a tailored suit."

Give your sneakers some bling this winter.

Olin said maximalist sneakers are in. The maximalism trend has been resurging across the fashion and design worlds for the last year or so, and it's a great way to incorporate more self-expression into your look.

"Forget just accessorizing your outfit — your sneakers need love, too," he told BI.

Get creative by adding your own personal touches, like mismatched laces, bows, charms, and even brooches.

Make a bold fashion statement with a metallic sneaker.

Olin said silver, gold, and chrome sneakers are staying in style for another season.

If you're captivated by street-style outfits on runways or social media but aren't ready to completely revamp your style, a metallic shoe is a great jumping-off point.

"They're flashy without being over-the-top, making them the perfect way to dip your toe into bold fashion — literally," the designer told BI.

On the other hand, platform sneakers have been done to death.

Davis told BI that platform sneakers are overdone. The trend has been prevalent across different footwear styles — heels, boots, loafers — but the bulky look is being pushed aside.

This season, people seem more interested in a narrower silhouette that offers a more polished aesthetic.

An array of popular sneaker brands, from Adidas to Converse, offer flat-sole designs that follow the sleek trend.

Plain white sneakers are being replaced by bolder colors and unique textures.

Olin said it's time to say goodbye to all-white and nude sneakers — to ditch the dull and embrace the vibrant.

The push toward maximalism means bright, bold colors and unique textures are in. Colorful sneakers are also a great way to liven up an outfit on a dreary winter day.

High-tops could be taking a backseat to sleeker styles.

Davis told BI that basketball sneakers and other mid-to-high-top styles are waning in popularity. If you're not into low-top versions of those shoes, consider investing in a pair of "dressletic" sneakers instead.

The designer said the style, which blends the stylish look of dress shoes with the comfort and functionality of athletic sneakers, is especially popular this season.

In addition to following the trends toward sleek, aesthetically pleasing looks, the dressier sneakers can also be a good option for people who are spending more time back in the office.

Trade in your slip-ons for a warmer alternative.

Although classic slip-on sneakers — like Vans — are ideal for warm weather, they can fall short in cooler temperatures and rough winter terrain.

If you're a big fan of the comfort and practicality of a slip-on, though, fear not. Scratch just recommends looking for a fleece-lined version of the shoe.

You can also opt for a sturdier outdoorsy sneaker with a flexible opening for ease of wear.

• My kids are college-age, in the prime of their lives, and thriving in every way.
• Meanwhile, I'm struggling with the woes of midlife, and I feel envious of their youth.
• I am persistently trying to accept this and find the silver lining.

I recently found a gray hair in my eyebrow, and my heart skipped a beat.

I suppose it might be comical to those who have accepted aging and the speed at which life passes us by, but that's not me — not yet, anyway. No one ever told me that eyebrows turn gray. I suppose no one really had to. I mean, I'm sure I've seen gray eyebrows before, but I never imagined I would fall victim to this atrocity — especially not so soon.

This unexpected gray hair — just like every wrinkle, hot flash, and new joint pain — was a reminder that there was still so much I wanted to do and even more that I wish I had done already.

And just as I angrily plucked that sucker right out of its place, my daughter walked in. "Are you almost done? I need to curl my hair."

My beautiful, young daughter, Nora, is about to decide where she will attend college next fall. She is excited about prom, graduation, and her upcoming senior night for hockey. Her hair is thick and gray-less. The world is her oyster — and she doesn't even know it.

Molly is my oldest daughter. She is about to study abroad in Spain. She is dedicated to fitness, has correctly identified her deepest passions, and is pursuing them with ambition and confidence. She is one of the bravest people I know. I look at her and see nothing but a vibrant, fulfilling future. The world is her oyster, too, and she just may know it.

To be honest, I'm jealous of my daughters. They have everything ahead of them, and it feels like my life is behind me.

I often find myself envious of my daughters' youthfulness

I am so incredibly proud of my girls. They have grown into such dynamic, wonderful young women, and the world is a better place because they are in it.

If I am being honest, though, I can't help but feel a pang of envy when I observe them living their best lives. They have youth and time and their whole lives ahead of them. Sometimes, I want to warn them that before they know it, they will wake up with gray eyebrows and an ex-husband.

Other times, I find myself selfishly living vicariously through them as if their experiences are indeed my do-over at life. I often yell at them, "Show me pictures from that party last night," "Let's find a fun place for you and your friends to go dancing this weekend," or "You should major in this and not that."

I'm worried I wasted my youth

I often say I have no regrets in life, but this gray hair reminded me that I do. At times, I am desperate for a rewind button.

I wish I could go back to my teenage years and choose a different college, complete a different major, and take a new journey altogether. I dream of going back to the days when I consistently weighed 138 pounds so that I could appreciate that as skinny and fit rather than berating my young self for being "fat."

I also want to redo my love life. I want to take the wisdom I have gathered from every failed relationship. I want to say "no" to those who caused me pain and "yes" to those who had the potential to love me the right way.

I want to prioritize financial wealth because, as an 18-year-old, I naively thought my husband would take care of "all that stuff." As a result of that false belief, I now live paycheck to paycheck.

I'm finding ways to accept and appreciate my aging

Don't get me wrong, I am often happy. But at times, life is hard. What's even harder is looking into the mirror and realizing that I have lived more years than I have left.

I often wonder: Are my best years behind me? Did I take them for granted? If a genie granted me a wish, would I truly go back in time, and if so, would I cherish the gift of time more?

Of course, there is part of me (maybe a very big part) that would love to be 16 again — but I want to be 16 with the wisdom of a 46-year-old. I suppose that proves aging isn't all bad, thanks to everything I have learned.

I do know one thing, though: Today, I am the youngest I will ever be. I suppose there is a 75-year-old version of me in the future, with a full set of gray eyebrows, wishing she could be 46 again. Or perhaps my 75-year-old self will fondly remember 16 and 46 while feeling joyful to be 75, living in the present, and appreciative of all that is possible.

I think my 46-year-old self would be wise to listen to her.

• I had my youngest daughter when I was 38, and now, I'm a middle-age mom of teens.
• I love having teens in my 50s. It keeps me young.
• I make an effort to speak their language and learn about their interests.

I may be 57, but I'm still 35 in my mind. I had my first child, a son, at age 18. I was naive, unprepared, and mostly clueless in the midst of my own reverse adolescence.

Two decades later, my youngest daughter was born, joining her 2-year-old sister, when I was 38. It didn't occur to me at the time that I would be 51 when my youngest turned 13 and the effect two teenage girls would have on me as a middle-age mom.

I could be mid-hot-flash, suddenly enraged and/or crying over something like them bickering, only to have them dissolve into laughter, directed at me, saying, "It's not that deep, Mom." I didn't have time to wallow in the perimenopausal symptoms that began around the same time they got their periods because they kept me too busy. I had to, as the kids say, "Clock in."

I speak their language

I speak fluent teenager, and am able to translate their often abbreviated language. Keeping up with their lingo keeps my brain young. If I'm messaging either of my now college-age daughters, I don't use punctuation, or they think I'm mad. My oldest daughter recently texted, "Please tell Dad to stop using periods, it's freaking me out."

This may seem silly to some, but to me, it feels like a privilege to catch BTS (behind-the-scenes) glimpses into their world, and it reminds me of my own angsty youth.

The ability to communicate with young people helps me relate to them and, occasionally, even for a brief moment, feel like one of them. When they recognize you speak their language, they're often more open and trusting. I remember wanting to feel 'heard' as a teenager, and I remember the adults who listened. There's a fine line, however, between a parent inserting themselves into kid-world and being invited in.

I make an effort to learn about their hobbies and interests

As my kids grew, I didn't try to force my 80s music on them but instead tried to lean into theirs. These days, their friends are surprised when I know the words to everything from Sabrina Carpenter and Doja Cat to Fisher, Paramore, or Pop Smoke. Music is ageless.

The sports my kids chose as teenagers forced me out of my middle-age comfort zone. At one point, I alternated between driving 93 miles into the traffic hellscape that is New York City twice weekly for fencing and hooking up and loading a gooseneck horse trailer for equestrian eventing activities around the Tri-State area of New Jersey, Delaware, and Pennsylvania.

My youngest daughter keeps me in style. It's like having Heidi Klum standing by to assess with swift certainty if my fashion choice is "in" or "out." Her friends have called me a "baddie." The connotation is flattering — and possibly a stretch — but, admittedly, a nice ego boost during a time when many women my age feel invisible.

My kids also keep me laughing — sometimes until we're crying, which, in my opinion, is the greatest fountain of youth.

In July, my last teenager will turn 20. Being an older mom to teens has had its challenges, but I wouldn't trade any of it. My late grandfather surrounded himself with young people throughout his life, and now I understand why.

• Taylor Sheridan's hit Western drama "Yellowstone" has spawned multiple spinoffs.
• The show has two prequel series, "1883" and "1923," the latter of which is set to return for a second season.
• Another spinoff series starring Michelle Pfeiffer is also on the way.

Taylor Sheridan's hit Western drama "Yellowstone" is more than just a show; it is its own television universe.

The flagship series became one of the most-watched scripted series in America, with viewers captivated by its complex family dynamics and breathtaking Montana views.

The show's success ultimately led to several spinoffs, including the prequel series "1883" and "1923."

All of the shows in the "Yellowstone" world that have been released so far are loosely connected, taking place in different time periods and focusing on different members of the Dutton clan.

If you're a newcomer to the universe, here's where to get started and the best order to watch the spinoffs.

Start with all five seasons of "Yellowstone."

Although there are now prequels to "Yellowstone," we still think it's best to start with the flagship series.

Before Sheridan backfilled the story with details of the Dutton family tree and how they came to own so much land in the Montana countryside, there was just aging rancher John Dutton (Kevin Costner) and his concerns over which of his children was the right fit to inherit it all.

The show also spotlighted the lives of the cowboys doing the grunt work at the ranch and the complicated romance between John's daughter, Beth (Kelly Reilly), and his most loyal worker, Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser).

Next, dive into the stand-alone series "1883."

"1883" tells the story of the first members of the Dutton family and their treacherous journey from the Great Plains to the Wild West before they settled in Montana to establish what would eventually become the Yellowstone Ranch.

Country legends and real-life couple Tim McGraw and Faith Hill play James and Margaret Dutton in the 10-episode series, which also features a large ensemble cast that includes Sam Elliott, Isabel May, Billy Bob Thornton, and LaMonica Garrett.

The characters of James and Margaret were first introduced to viewers through a series of flashback sequences in season four of "Yellowstone."

Check out the sprawling origin story "1923" after that.

"1923" focuses on the second and third generations of the Duttons in the early 20th century.

Having established themselves in Montana, the Duttons in this series (led by Helen Mirren and Harrison Ford) face a myriad of opponents who threaten to take everything they've worked for.

It also tells a more expansive story than "1883," focusing on three parallel storylines — Jacob and Cara Dutton's struggle to keep their ranch, their nephew's perilous journey back home, and the plight of a Native American teenager.

The season one finale left things on a major cliffhanger with plenty of conflicts to resolve in the second season, which airs on February 23.

Fans have "The Madison" to look forward to.

Chances are you haven't heard much about "The Madison" just yet, but it's the next continuation of the "Yellowstone" universe and was announced last year.

Michelle Pfieffer stars and serves as an executive producer on the show, which is set to follow a woman named Stacy Clyburn, a New York City native who lives with her family in the Madison River valley in Montana.

Per Paramount Network, "the series is a heartfelt study of grief and human connection."

And (potentially) another spinoff focusing on Beth and Rip.

While announcing that the flagship series would be drawing to a close back in 2023, Paramount bosses promised "expansions" to the universe.

That perhaps includes a spinoff show reuniting "Yellowstone" fan favorites Beth and Rip.

In November, Hauser told The Hollywood Reporter that he felt there was room to explore Beth and Rip's future now they've got their happy ending.

"You can go on forever about these two. There's no walls when it comes to them, no limits," he said. "And as long as Taylor wants to write something special, I know Kelly and I would be interested to do it."

Paramount Network did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

• This post originally appeared in the BI Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Welcome back to our Sunday edition, where we round up some of our top stories and take you inside our newsroom. Bill Gates thinks people will be "so much better off" in the future — but that young people need to activate on certain challenges. Gates highlighted four risks, including unchecked AI, that are "very scary things" for younger generations.

On the agenda today:

• How the federal workers who voted for President Trump feel about his overhaul of their workforce.
• Meet the 20 bankers who led last year's M&A rebound.
• If you're looking to lower your rent, you might want to move fast.
• Want to work for a startup? These young companies are your best bet.

But first: Low performer? Who says?

If this was forwarded to you, sign up here. Download Business Insider's app here.

This week's dispatch

Refusing to stay silent

There are layoffs driven by cost cutting. Then there are job cuts based on performance. What if, in actuality, performance-based cuts are just ordinary layoffs in disguise?

That's essentially what some Meta employees felt this year after CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced a swath of cuts designed to "raise the bar on performance management and move out low-performers faster." (On Friday we published details about which teams at Meta were hard hit by the cuts.)

Some of the people who were let go spoke with our Meta reporters. They said they had been under the impression their performance was solid, even exceeding expectations.

So what exactly was going on, and what did it mean for people caught in the quandary?

Our chief correspondent and careers writer extraordinaire Aki Ito dug in.

She had suspected people who felt mislabeled or blindsided would keep their frustrations quiet as they ventured back into the job market. In fact, many didn't. They took to LinkedIn to defend themselves against Meta's label.

"This is something we haven't seen before in the professional world: Employees sticking up for themselves in public, and calling out their former employer for misrepresenting their work," Aki wrote.

Aki didn't just recognize the new trend. She did more reporting, asking: Even if venting via social media felt good, was it a smart tactic for job seekers?

For the answer to that question and more, please read Aki's tremendous piece. As always, I welcome your thoughts on our coverage, at [email protected].

Trump-supporting federal workers speak out

As President Trump looks to slim down the federal workforce, many federal employees have expressed outrage over his job-cutting blitz. But what about the ones who voted for him?

Four federal workers who voted for Trump spoke with BI about their feelings. They said they supported Trump cutting governmental waste, but some had concerns over the administration's targeting of federal workers. One worker said it hadn't changed their support of the president.

"It shouldn't have come to this."

Also read:

• They had glowing reviews before getting fired from their government jobs. Now they're planning to fight back.

The bankers fueling M&A's revival

US companies had more than $1.43 trillion in deals last year, the highest since 2021. It's a good sign for Wall Street, signaling a rebound after the M&A freeze that started in 2022.

BI, with the help of MergerLinks, is back with its sixth annual edition of "The Rainmakers." Our list ranks the highest-performing investment bankers by overall transaction volume in the US. This time around, JPMorgan's Anu Aiyengar became the first woman to secure the top spot.

Meet the 20 Rainmakers.

Snag the apartment deals while you can

The rental market has been booming over the past two years. With so many high rises hitting the market, landlords are desperate to fill up the space — and renters have been reaping the rewards.

Enjoy it while you can. The new apartment supply is expected to dwindle as building costs increase and developers cut back on construction plans. It's laying the groundwork for another apartment squeeze that could cause rent to hike up.

Brace yourself.

The startups to bet your career on

In recent years, cost-cutting and layoffs have dulled some of Silicon Valley's shine. But now AI is fueling a new wave of tech dealmaking. BI put together a list of startups with impressive founding teams and investor dollars that are worth betting your career on.

The lineup covers a lot of ground, ranging from tools that sift through clinical notes to resources that make it easier to develop AI models.

The 43 startups you should want to work for.

This week's quote:

"We have to keep reducing costs so that we can afford the big investments in big new businesses."

— Doug Herrington, Amazon's retail CEO, during an internal all-hands meeting heard by BI.

More of this week's top reads:

• SBA won't try to claw back $155 million in controversial COVID grants to celebrities.
• Trump and Musk froze USAID funding to put Americans first. US citizens are feeling the impact.
• I'm a 44-year-old small-business owner. I've never made $100,000 in a year, and I'm still on track to retire by 50.
• Retail investors tell us how they're navigating the market in 2025.
• The last time America was this bullish on stocks was right before a huge sell-off.
• Marko Elez, who left DOGE amid social media controversy, worked for xAI.
• TikTok is ramping up RTO, and some are balking at the new requirements.
• I spent 10 hours at a real-estate conference with hundreds of investors — and the major takeaway had nothing to do with market trends.
• Forget the Trump trade. The Musk trade is where it's at.
• A hedge funder shares his precise strategy for finding high-upside meme coins, and lays out his bets for 2025.

• I helped my mom set up her phone. It could have gone better.

  ---

  The BI Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York. Grace Lett, editor, in Chicago. Amanda Yen, associate editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Elizabeth Casolo, fellow, in Chicago.