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Bob Myers of Skyl Discusses Social Media – Disrupt or be Disrupted: The New Hollywood Blvd?

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The lines between entertainment and technology have never been more blurred than today’s social media-driven society. Whether it’s JoJo Siwa (listed on the Time’s 2020 Most Influential People) or launching the careers of YouTubers like Liza Koshy (with over 18 million Instagram followers and 17 million YouTube subscribers) crossing over into mainstream film, these social media powerhouses are arguably the new Hollywood elite. Millennial entertainment is not the entertainment of the past!

So what is it about social media that incubates both talent and fandom that is enough to rival and overpower the stardom of Hollywood and mainstream entertainment?

Arguably one of the primary reasons that social media platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram are becoming “The New Hollywood Blvd” is the potential for authenticity (organic) and effective self-promotion.

According to Social Media Today, the popularity of social media in our society, “comes down to a basic human desire to really connect with others and to be part of a community.” Social media platforms are reshaping what it means to be a celebrity or entertainer, with many traditional Hollywood agencies now securing top digital creators as a mainstay of their talent roster.

Savvy marketers and advertisers are also taking note of this shift in the industry. We are seeing them move away from partnerships with “traditional” Hollywood celebrities, and engaging with digital influencers and social media stars who have an unparalleled reach and audience engagement. This move is real, disruptive, and must be recognized by traditional media curators. This includes both traditional studios as well as the onslaught of new streaming services.

Even Hollywood stars like Will Smith, Kevin Hart, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, authentically utilize their social media platforms, connect, and converse with their fans and followers. This includes posting videos, pictures, live streams, and even personally direct messaging or responding to comments from fans. The opportunity to see the “real” person behind the star, their day-to-day life, and perhaps even hear back, is unrivaled in mainstream media where teams of publicists and managers exist. Having a strong social media presence and fanbase is arguably an essential requirement for stars to build and maintain their stardom. 

Social media combined with new and interesting technologies supporting innovative new ways to engage will be the difference between today’s media mongols and the future media disruptors. “Disrupt or be Disrupted,” is a phrase commonly used by Myers. Myers offers his final advice, ”Choose your path but the journey is unavoidable.”

Bob Myers

Bob Myers, tech industry veteran with over 30 years of experience in entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship, is the current Chairman of SKY LLC and the previous CEO and founder of Pillar Technology, now Accenture (ACN). SKYL is a next-generation incubator that helps entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs scale startups by providing partners to enhance their vision. Myers is also the founder of the FORGE Innovation Centers. Myers has helped create technology such as OnStar and contributed to the development of autonomous vehicles.

Michelle has been a part of the journey ever since Bigtime Daily started. As a strong learner and passionate writer, she contributes her editing skills for the news agency. She also jots down intellectual pieces from categories such as science and health.

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Lifestyle

From Wealth to Fields: A Billionaire’s Commitment to Small Farmers

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In recent years, billionaire Stefan Soloviev has transitioned from the world of New York real estate to the fertile farmlands of the American West. 

His journey from urban wealth to rural development showcases a unique dedication to revitalizing small farming communities and transforming the agricultural landscape.

A New Vision for Agriculture

Stefan Soloviev, son of the late real estate tycoon Sheldon Solow, has amassed a considerable amount of farmland across Colorado, Kansas, and New Mexico. Soloviev’s agricultural enterprise, Crossroads Agriculture, spans over 400,000 acres, making him one of the largest landowners in the United States. 

This substantial investment is not merely a financial venture; it represents a commitment to supporting and empowering small farmers in these regions.

Soloviev’s approach to farming is characterized by his desire to move away from competitive practices that often leave small farmers struggling. Instead, he emphasizes collaboration and sustainability. 

By leveraging his resources, Soloviev aims to create a farming environment where smallholders can thrive alongside larger operations. This philosophy is particularly evident in his strategic acquisition of the San Luis & Rio Grande Railroad, a critical transportation link for agricultural products in the region.

Revitalizing Rural Communities

Soloviev’s impact extends beyond farmland acquisition. His purchase of the San Luis & Rio Grande Railroad at a bankruptcy auction for $10.7 million highlights his broader vision for the agricultural sector. 

This railroad, previously owned by Iowa Pacific Holdings, connects the San Luis Valley to the national rail network, facilitating the efficient transport of goods and boosting local economies.

The acquisition is seen as a positive development for the San Luis Valley, with Soloviev’s Colorado Pacific Railroad expected to be more community-focused and supportive of local initiatives compared to the previous owners. This includes potential cooperation with local recreational projects, such as the proposed Heart of the Valley Trail, which aims to integrate rail and trail use for community benefit.

Soloviev’s dedication to the region is also reflected in his willingness to work with local stakeholders to address community needs. His approach contrasts with more traditional, profit-driven business models and underscores his commitment to fostering a sustainable and inclusive agricultural ecosystem.

Building a Sustainable Future

Soloviev’s investment in the Colorado Pacific Railroad and the broader agricultural infrastructure is part of a long-term vision to create a more resilient and sustainable farming community. By improving transportation networks and providing support to small farmers, he hopes to mitigate some of the challenges these farmers face, such as market access and transportation costs.

Moreover, Soloviev’s initiatives are seen as a way to preserve and enhance the rural way of life, which is increasingly threatened by industrial farming and urban encroachment. His efforts to balance economic viability with environmental stewardship demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the complexities of modern agriculture.

In conclusion, Stefan Soloviev’s transition from urban real estate mogul to a champion of small farmers is a testament to his innovative and community-oriented approach. 

His significant investments in farmland and infrastructure, coupled with a commitment to sustainability and local engagement, are paving the way for a brighter future for small farmers in Colorado and beyond. Through his efforts, Soloviev is not only transforming

the agricultural landscape but also setting a precedent for how wealth and resources can be used to foster positive change in rural communities​. 

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