Revenge of the Tipping Point Overstories, Superspreaders, and the Rise of Social Engineering: Book Review

                                                                                    

Jim's Review

Malcolm Gladwell has following up the original Tipping Point with a marvelous evaluation and descripting of various event and the impact they made

10 out of 10 stars

About book

AN INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

Most Anticipated in:
AARP | Associated Press | Time Magazine | Oprah Daily | Chicago Tribune | Literary Hub |
Publishers Weekly | Publishers Lunch

Twenty-five years after the publication of his groundbreaking first book, Malcolm Gladwell returns with a brand-new volume that reframes the lessons of The Tipping Point in a startling and revealing light.

Why is Miami…Miami? What does the heartbreaking fate of the cheetah tell us about the way we raise our children? Why do Ivy League schools care so much about sports? What is the Magic Third, and what does it mean for racial harmony? In this provocative new work, Malcolm Gladwell returns for the first time in twenty-five years to the subject of social epidemics and tipping points, this time with the aim of explaining the dark side of contagious phenomena.
 
Through a series of riveting stories, Gladwell traces the rise of a new and troubling form of social engineering. He takes us to the streets of Los Angeles to meet the world’s most successful bank robbers, rediscovers a forgotten television show from the 1970s that changed the world, visits the site of a historic experiment on a tiny cul-de-sac in northern California, and offers an alternate history of two of the biggest epidemics of our day: COVID and the opioid crisis. Revenge of the Tipping Point is Gladwell’s most personal book yet. With his characteristic mix of storytelling and social science, he offers a guide to making sense of the contagions of modern world. It’s time we took tipping points seriously. learn more

Dreamer My Life on the Edge Nazem Kadri: Book Review

  "Bonified Stanley Cup Champion with the Colorado Avalanche!"  Jim Pagiamtzis              

 

                                                                     My review

                                                             It was an enjoyable to read from the beginning all the way to the end. Nazem Kadri shares his journey from juniors to the Toronto Maple Learfs and the trials and drama he went through. Getting traded to the Colorado Avalanche was a blessing because in a few short years he was bonified Stanley Cup Champion with the Colorado Avalanche.  

Then due to budget he signed a contract with the Calgary Flames where he has become a leader and respect by all the game.

                                                                                      9 out of 10 stars

                                                                      About book

INSTANT NATIONAL BESTSELLER

An outspoken, inspirational memoir from a charismatic athlete in the spotlight, Dreamer is the moving story of the first Muslim hockey player to win the Stanley Cup, and the impossible dreams he made a reality.

No one who knows the game is unfamiliar with the story of the NHL’s first Muslim Stanley Cup winner, Nazem Kadri, nor does anyone doubt his warmth and openness in front of a microphone, or his eagerness to challenge the next generation of Muslim athletes. He is a league All-Star, a highlight-reel player, and someone who has been called upon to be the face of his community from the moment he put on skates.

Nazem Kadri was a top-ten draft pick of the Toronto Maple Leafs, chosen not only for his elite skills but because he would reflect Toronto’s immense diversity and huge Muslim population. And he was soon a fan favourite, not only with a new generation of diverse fans, but with traditionalists too, who admired his willingness to play the game with old-school toughness.

In the end, he was traded to Colorado as management sought to shake up the team. But it was the Avalanche, not the Leafs, who benefitted most, and Toronto fans missed him. When Colorado won the Stanley Cup in 2022, Kadri (by then a fan favourite in Denver) was a clutch player in high-pressure games. Today he is a veteran leader with the Calgary Flames, and still making the highlight reels.

But the core of Kadri's story is what happened off the ice—both shocking and heartwarming. Kadri faced brutal anti-Muslim harassment during Colorado's Cup run from Blues fans and received incredible support from Denver fans. When a controversy arose about an uncalled penalty on the championship-winning goal, this founding member of the league’s Hockey Diversity Alliance used the opportunity to make humorous t-shirts, which raised over $250,000 for the Kadri Foundation.

And when he had his traditional day with the Stanley Cup, he took it to the mosque in his hometown of London, Ontario, along with the message that the highest success, not just in hockey but in life, is a destiny any of us can choose. learn more and buy book

                                                                           

Podcamp Toronto 2025: Feature article

 February 22nd and 23rd at George Brown College. St.James Campus

                                                                      

It was such a memorable weekend at Podcamp Toronto as speakers shared and attendees were learning and networking on everything podcasting.

I have been attending since 2011 and every year is a magical year of listening, learning and networking with amazing professionals in their field.

Look forward to sharing all the audios shortly.

                                                                            Matthew Rouse sharing on AI

                                         

Lilian Riad-Allen sharing on Imposter Syndrom

Jim Pagiamtzis and Hisham Qaddoumi sharing the PROS strategy

Hisham Qaddoumi sharing at Podcamp Toronto

#TheCelebrityGuru #DRPPP is interviewing Manny Bains, The Cure Movie Director: Feature interview

#TheCelebrityGuru #DRPPP is interviewing Manny Bains, The Cure Movie Director

                                                             

Journey into slabbing cards: Feature article

  "methodical, meticulous and magical experience to slab cards" Jim Pagiamtzis

In early March I was asked by friend Tony from ICERT Certifications Services if was interested in assisting him in slabbing (see meaning below) an order of cards.

I jumped at the chance to do it!

It was quick 10 minute lesson and I was ready to get started.

It's a very methodical and meticulous experience to slab cards. There is a process to it and the main issue to slabbing is dealing with dust!

I had access to a industrial air compressor yet dust still snuck in arghh!

At the end of the day I did about 170 cards and truly respected the art of slabbling!

Meaning of Slabbing/Slabbed: Slang term used to describe the process of encapsulating a card after it has been graded and/or authenticated. The encapsulation itself is often referred to as a slab. Sticker Auto, Sticker Autograph: An athlete signs a sticker or label, and the card manufacturer applies this sticker to the card.

                                                                 Preparing to slab cards

Completed slabbed cards

Will A I Take My Job? Predictions about AI in corporations, small business, and the workplace: Book Review

                                                                                    

Jim's Review

Recently met Mr. Rouse at an event in Toronto in late February 2025 and I won his book!

It was a remarkable and little scary read yet in the end the future has arrived and we must be ready to work with it.

10 out of 10 stars

About book

Will AI Take My Job?
2023 First Edition

Written by a real person (Matt Rouse) assisted by several AI applications, but not assisted in writing this book's content. It's all me, folks! (And Kari and Alicia's fabulous editing too.)

In a world where AI's rapid advancements are reshaping the landscape of industries, job roles, and corporate dynamics, staying ahead of the curve isn't just a luxury; it's a necessity. The sudden emergence of generative AI caught everyone off guard at every level of the corporate hierarchy, entrepreneurs, contractors, vendors... You name it.

Whether AI will take your job or not isn't certain, but one thing is certain. The landscape of work is changing.

You can listen to the over-simplified BS in the news media or a few LinkedIn posts from nay-sayers who don't even understand how these systems work, or you can read a succinct deep dive into the world of generative AI, AGI, AI scaling, and how these things are going to determine if you still have a job or not in the next 24 months.

"Will AI Take My Job?" delves deep into the present state of AI in the workplace, examining the corporate struggle with new AI capabilities, and exploring the roles most at risk. With ten comprehensive chapters covering various job sectors, from manufacturing and healthcare to creative industries, this book provides invaluable insights into the evolving job market dynamics.

1. What is the current state of AI?
2. Which jobs are most likely at risk?
3. What you can do about it.
4. Find out who is in for a real shock thinking they won't be affected.

In the book, Matt lays out proactive strategies for professionals to equip themselves, ensuring they remain indispensable and resilient in this AI-driven era.

Finally, he tops it all off with a speculative glimpse into the far future of AI and AGI, and how they will power autonomous robots and devices capable of both labor and digital tasks.

Why is this a must-read?

• Understand the current state of AI and how it impacts jobs.
• Gain insights into the challenges corporations face in integrating AI.
• Explore in-depth analyses of job roles that might be at risk.
• Equip yourself with strategies to remain relevant and valuable in your profession.
• Stay ahead of the curve by anticipating future AI trends and their implications.
• Considerations about AI ethics for your business.

The future waits for no one.

As AI continues to permeate every facet of our lives, the question isn't if it will affect your job, but when. Arm yourself with the knowledge and foresight to navigate this brave new world. Matt will help you understand what you need to know to try to keep your job, pivot to make yourself invaluable, or improve your productivity by incorporating AI into your workday.

Dive into "Will AI Take My Job?" and future-proof your career today.

Hockey Rants & Raves: Book Review

                                                                         

Jim's Review

I have been a huge fan of Steve "Dangle"  Glynn rants and raves for a while! It was great read from the beginning to the end to learn more about when he started his show and the journey he has been on.

I can't match his Toronto Maple Leafs  man cave but I did create a list of what I have!

Highly recommend this book 

10 out of 10 stars

About book

The hottest takes and biggest beefs about hockey from the wildly popular podcaster and YouTuber

Who would be on the Mount Rushmore of goalies?

Is Gretzky the Greatest Player of All Time (a.k.a. GOATzky)?

What are the most embarrassing Leaf losses of all time?

Why would you choose to play in a small market?

Steve “Dangle” Glynn was already a popular talking head on Sportsnet the night the Leafs lost to their own back-up goalie (and Zamboni driver), but his fandom skyrocketed after his rant following the hilarious mishap gained one million views on YouTube. Dangle is well known as a long-suffering Leafs fan, but he is more than just that. He shares his rants and opinions about all teams across the NHL, directing his laser focus onto hockey’s greatest arguments, from the best players of all time, to the worst trades, to the most embarrassing Leafs losses.

From one of the most unique voices in hockey, Hockey Rants and Raves is packed with passionate, honest and often humorous takes on all things hockey—required reading for all fans of the game.learn more and buy

Make Your Shot (2025) Movie Review

                                                                              

 

                                                                       Jim's Review

          Fantastic film on the journey that South Asian hockey players have gone through to reach the NHL.

                                                                               9.5 out of 10 stars

                                                            About film

Mareya Shot, Keetha Goal: Make the Shot tells the inspiring story of young Canadian hockey players of South Asian descent striving to break barriers and achieve their dreams of being drafted into the NHL. It’s a powerful tale of perseverance, resilience and chasing your goals against all odds.

                                       watch trailer

                                                       

The event will feature a dynamic panel moderated by Molly Thomas, host of TVO’s Big [If True]. The panel will include three notable guests from the South Asian community who will discuss the importance of diversity in sports and storytelling:

• JK Gill is one of the first South Asian men to play in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), paving the way for greater diversity in hockey. His journey and insights have been featured on Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi Edition.
• Sandeep Kaur Gill is a Brampton high school teacher, fashion stylist, and influencer known for her bold and innovative designs. Hockey Canada commissioned her to reimagine the Team Canada sweater for the Women’s World Championships in Brampton, blending sport and style.
• Abrar al Mouktaran, Program Coordinator for Hockey 4 Youth Foundation, arrived in Canada from Syria in 2016 and secretly played hockey while wearing her hijab. Now an OCAD graduate, she helps empower newcomer youth through the same program that changed her life.
• Bernice Carnegie is a speaker and author who shares her unique perspective of being born Black in Canada. She credits her interesting journey to her father Herb Carnegie, Canadian Black hockey trailblazer and community icon, and her courageous grandparents who settled in Canada in 1912.

                                                   

  

                                   

Captain America- Brave New World (2025): Movie Review

Marvelous, Maniacal and Massive!  (contains spoilers)                               

Jim's Review

The New Captain America (Anthony Mackie) is back and gets involved in a conspiracy that involved the President of the United States Thadeuss Ross (Harrison Ford).

The Celestial events in Eternals (2021) come to play in this film and so do two characters from Incredible Hulk (2008). (see movie posters below)

Thadeuss Ross is still estranged from his daughter Betty Ross (Liv Tyler) and still trying to make amends to his faults and trying to change.

Meanwhile Captain America is investigating an attempted assassination of Thaddeuss Ross and quickly finds Samuels Sterns (Tim Blake Nelson) is being held in a secret facility for the last 17 years and has big plans he trying to execute.

The plot quickly unravels and Captain America and Danny Ramirez (Joaquin Torres) on a pursuit for the truth.

In the climatic end Thaddeus Ross transforms in the Red Hulk and lays carnage at the White House!

In the end Captain America saves the day and his next mission is perhaps put a new Avengers team together.

8.5 out of 10

The Incredible Hulk (2008), Eternals (2021) and Captain America Brave New World (2025)

About movie

Sam finds himself in the middle of an international incident after meeting with President Thaddeus Ross. He must soon discover the reason behind a nefarious global plot before the true mastermind has the entire world seeing red.

Fantastic Four Teaser trailer 2025: Feature article

 

                                                           

                                                         

                                                 Fanstastic Four teaser trailer 2025

                                                             

Fantastic Four movies from previous years.

                                       

DECA Judge in Toronto: Feature article

Friday February 7, 2025

It has been a huge honor to serve as judge since 2011. This year was no different in the professionalism the students showed in dealing with some tough cases.                                  

                                              

Toronto FC 2025 New Season: Feature Article

  Thursday February 6,2025

  It's going to be interesting year watching  Toronto FC as I am part owner of season tickets this year, with that I get access to special events to attend for season ticket holders.

It was packed event at Real Sports Bar in downtown Toronto as TFC Leadership shared this year vision with new coach Robin Fraser who served with the team during the early years leading up to the championship season in 2017

This year bring new challenges as new player and new vision Hunt for Glory takes Toronto FC to uncharted territory to bring back the winning ways into the 2025 season.

Stay tuned for more updates.

                                                                           

                                                     Jim Pagiamtzis and Jon Gauthier 

                                                                               

TFC Leadership taking questions

New Logo and new vision

                                                                 Food and Beer

The Fire Inside (2024): Movie Review

                                                                          

Jim's Review

Claressa Shields (Ryan Destiny) went on a amazing journey to be win Olympic Gold.

10 out of 10 stars

About film

The story of Claressa "T-Rex" Shields, a boxer from Flint, Mich., who trained to become the first woman in her country's history to win an Olympic gold medal in the sport.

PreHistoric The Audacious and Improbable Origin Story of the Toronto Ratpors: Book Review

Jim's Review

A very detail look on the rise of the Toronto Raptors and how they evolved as a team in the early years.

9 out of 10 stars

About book

The improbable story of the birth of modern-day pro basketball in Toronto

In just over 25 years, the Toronto Raptors have evolved from an intrepid expansion team to an NBA champion. But for all the triumphs of the past decade, the beginning looked a bit different. When the franchise began its first season in 1995, a pro basketball team in Toronto was viewed as an experiment. There was no playbook to follow, and very few people gave them a chance to succeed. 

In Prehistoric, irreverent Raptors voice and culture writer Alex Wong explores the franchise’s fascinating and unconventional inception through 140 original interviews with those involved with the team’s very beginning, examining the process of how the team came up with their name and logo inspired by the blockbuster film Jurassic Park, taking a behind-the-scenes look at the drafting of star point guard Damon Stoudamire, telling the backstories of a group of misfits who formed the first-year roster, and providing an in-depth look at the team’s opening night victory at the SkyDome and the expansion franchise’s signature win over Michael Jordan and a 72-win Chicago Bulls team. 

The Raptors boldly and intentionally pursued a much different audience in a hockey-first town. The result is a team who went through the necessary growing pains and eventually captured the heart of a city, as told in this essential origin story through the lens of the people who were there to help lay the foundation for a thriving modern-day basketball franchise in Toronto. learn more and buy book

 

Millionaire Success Habits- The Gateway to Weath and Properity: Book Review

                                                                            

Jim's Review

Amazing book from the beginning all the way to the end!

10 out of 10 stars

about book

NEW EDITION--REVISED AND UPDATED with all-new chapters on productivity! Legendary business coach and entrepreneur Dean Graziosi takes you from where you are in life to where you want to be, using simple tools to reshape daily routines and open new doors to prosperity--whether you're a fellow entrepreneur, an employee or executive, or a new grad in your first job.

Millionaire Success Habits is a book designed with one purpose in mind: to take you from where you are in life to where you want to be in life by incorporating easy-to-implement "Success Habits" into your daily routine.

Legendary business coach Dean Graziosi has broken down the walls of complexity around success and created simple success recipes that you can quickly put to use in your life to reach the level of wealth and abundance you desire.

This book is not about adding more time to your day. It is about replacing those things that are not serving your future with success habits designed specifically to assist you on your journey to a better you. In these pages, you'll:

• Drill down deep to identify your "why"--the true purpose that drives you and the real reason you want to prosper
• Expose and overcome the "villain within" that's holding you back
• Unlock the single biggest secret to being productive (it's probably not what you think)
• Believe in your own massive potential--so you can make it a reality
• Use Dean's 30-day Better Life Challenge to catapult you into your new life

Now updated with brand-new chapters on productivity and mastering the art of achievement, Millionaire Success Habits gives you the tools you need to radically reshape your daily routine and open new doors to prosperity. Learn more and buy book

Act - The Modern Actor's Handbook: Book Review

                                                                               

Jim's Review

Insightful book on the power of  evolving into an actor

9 out of 10 stars

About book

“Simply put, I don’t think I would’ve found my voice as an actor without David.” ― Scott Speedman, actor

“Act has the roadmap for the most crucial task of an actor: getting present.” ― Shawn Doyle, actor

A lively, conversational textbook dedicated to the art of acting from a master teacher.

Act: The Modern Actor’s Handbook is the result of 30 years of one of North America’s most renowned acting teachers teaching some of the world's most talented screen actors. This is a full tour through the concepts at the heart of Rotenberg’s techniques: states of being, primaries and secondaries, images that you elaborate up or distill down, modifiers, actions and beats, and more. Although his methods loosely draw on the great acting teachers like Hagen and Meisner back to Stanislavski, he teaches new techniques suited to the best of today’s screen actors. This is a major new work in the actor’s library and will be pulled off the shelf time and again to find that key into a scene, to prepare for an audition, or to find that right technique to make the art come alive again.Learn more and buy book

 

Fantastic Four (1994): Movie Review

                                                                

Jim's Review

Marvelous story of the Fantastic Four 

10 out of 10 stars

About film

The Fantastic Four is an unreleased 1994 English-language German superhero film based on the Marvel Comics superhero team of the same name, created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. The film features the team's origin and first battle with Doctor Doom. 

Den of Thieves 2 Pantera (2024): Movie Review

                                                                                       

Jim's Review

Stellar cast horrible script!

5 out of 10 stars

About film

Lawman "Big Nick" O'Brien gets embroiled in the treacherous and unpredictable world of diamond thieves as he pursues career criminal Donnie Wilson to Europe.

September 5 (2024): Movie Review

                                                                                                     

Jim's Review

Hostage crisis in the 1971 Munich Olympics and American sport broadcasting news finds itself with challenges in covering this event

10 out of 10 stars

About film

During the 1972 Munich Olympics, an American sports broadcasting crew finds itself thrust into covering the hostage crisis involving Israeli athletes.