Tag Archives: business

The Software Giant You’ve Never Heard Of—But It Knows Everything About You

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What if I told you there’s a software company that knows more about your life than Google, Facebook, TikTok, or even your local government?

While tech giants like Meta and Microsoft dominate headlines, another powerful player has quietly built a digital empire beneath the surface—powering financial systems, health care networks, government agencies, and even the intelligence community. Its name is Oracle.

💻 The Silent Powerhouse: Oracle’s Hidden Reach

Founded in 1977, Oracle Corporation has grown into one of the most influential software and data infrastructure companies in the world. With billions in annual revenue, Oracle runs the digital backbone of:

  • Global financial systems
  • Hospital networks and patient data infrastructure
  • Government databases, including some tied to U.S. intelligence operations
  • Countless mobile apps and enterprise systems you use every day

Unlike social media companies that make money through advertising, Oracle’s power lies in data architecture—collecting, analyzing, and monetizing data on a scale most people can’t imagine. Your purchases, movements, medical history, political leanings, and digital behavior are all pieces of a massive data puzzle Oracle helps store, process, and sell to the highest bidders.

🏢 Data Centers: Booming Business, Hidden Costs

As Oracle expands, massive Microsoft and Oracle data centers are being built across America—often in rural or semi-rural areas. These facilities consume enormous amounts of water and electricity, sometimes straining local resources and spiking electric bills for nearby communities.

  • Water: A single large data center can use millions of gallons of water per day for cooling.
  • Electricity: Data centers use hundreds of megawatts—enough to power small cities.
  • Land & Air: Their construction often leads to land clearing, habitat disruption, and local air quality issues.

Despite these environmental and economic effects, many communities have no idea how deeply these facilities impact their daily lives. Why? Because most people have barely heard of Oracle, let alone its infrastructure footprint.

🕵️‍♂️ From CIA Contracts to Global Control

In the early years, Oracle worked closely with the CIA, helping build secure databases to manage sensitive intelligence information. That relationship was a key factor in the company’s meteoric rise. Over time, Oracle’s systems spread into nearly every sector: defense, banking, insurance, telecom, and healthcare.

Today, Oracle holds and manages some of the most sensitive information on the planet, including national security data and private citizen information.

👤 Who’s Behind Oracle?

The driving force behind Oracle’s empire is Larry Ellison, the company’s co-founder and long-time CEO (now CTO). With a net worth that often places him among the top 10 richest people in the world, Ellison is a key figure in shaping how data flows globally.

While Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg are household names, Ellison has maintained immense influence with far less public scrutiny.

🛑 Privacy Is Becoming a Myth

In today’s digital landscape, privacy doesn’t truly exist. Between government surveillance, corporate data harvesting, and tech infrastructure companies like Oracle that quietly handle the world’s information, your personal data is currency—and you’re not the one getting paid for it.

This isn’t about fearmongering. It’s about awareness. Understanding who controls the infrastructure behind the apps, hospitals, banks, and governments gives you a clearer picture of the systems that shape your everyday life.

📌 Who’s Buying TikTok Now?

As of late 2025, Oracle has also been in the spotlight over U.S. government efforts to regulate or purchase TikTok. Oracle has positioned itself as a potential “trusted partner” for TikTok’s U.S. data storage—further intertwining itself with social media data pipelines.

🔐 Final Thoughts

This isn’t just a software company. Oracle is the quiet power player that has woven itself into the fabric of our lives. Whether you’re swiping on your phone, paying a bill, visiting a doctor, or interacting with a government agency, chances are Oracle’s servers and software are involved.

Awareness is the first step. Privacy laws may be catching up slowly, but understanding the infrastructure behind the tech gives you power in a world where data is the new oil.

📝 Disclaimer

The information in this article is provided for educational and research purposes only. It reflects publicly available data and historical records. It should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or investment advice. Readers are encouraged to verify details through official and reputable sources.

📚 References & Resources

  • Oracle Corporate Website: https://www.oracle.com
  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Data Center Energy Use Reports
  • Wired Magazine: “The CIA’s First Database: Oracle’s Origins”
  • CNBC: “Larry Ellison Net Worth & Influence in Tech”
  • The Washington Post: “Data Centers and Their Environmental Impact”
  • U.S. Department of Energy – Data Center Power Usage Statistics

✍️ About the Author

A.L. Childers is an author, journalist, and researcher who writes about history, technology, health, and hidden power structures that shape our world. Her work uncovers the connections between corporations, governments, and everyday life, encouraging readers to question what they’ve been told and follow the data.

📚 Check out her latest books on Amazon and follow her on TikTok @breakthematrixaudrey for more investigative deep dives.

Discover how Oracle, one of the world’s most powerful but least talked-about tech companies, quietly built a data empire bigger than Google or Facebook—fueling data centers, CIA contracts, and the erosion of privacy across America.

Oracle data collection, Oracle CIA contracts, Oracle privacy issues, Oracle data centers USA, Microsoft Oracle infrastructure, Larry Ellison net worth, TikTok Oracle partnership, privacy in America 2025, data center water usage, who owns your data, Oracle environmental impact

🚨 Lead Vendor Scams: How to Spot Fraudulent Leads Before They Drain Your Wallet

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The insurance and sales industries thrive on one crucial resource: quality leads. But in today’s digital world, not every lead vendor is what they seem. Many offshore lead vendors—particularly those operating through Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp—use deceptive practices to take advantage of hardworking agents.

If you’re not careful, these shady operators can cost you more than money. They can expose you to compliance violations, lawsuits, and even termination from your agency or carrier contracts.

Let’s break down the risks, red flags, and solutions every agent should know.

The Risk: What’s Really Happening

Fraudulent vendors often:

  • Sell false leads or recycle old data that was never verified.
  • Distribute personal information without consent, putting you at risk of legal action.
  • Use impersonation scams—pretending to be consumers on calls to trick agents.
  • Push agents into buying “live transfers” that are scripted scams designed to waste your time and money.

These practices don’t just damage your bottom line—they could expose you to fines and destroy your professional credibility.

🚩 Red Flags: How to Spot a Fraudulent Lead Vendor

Watch out for vendors who:

  1. Ask for wire transfers or untraceable payment methods.
    Legitimate companies provide secure, traceable options.
  2. Operate primarily overseas with no verifiable U.S. presence or business accreditation.
  3. Market only through social media or WhatsApp.
    Real vendors have professional websites, reviews, and track records.
  4. Refuse to provide proof of consumer consent.
    Every legitimate lead should come with verifiable opt-in documentation.
  5. Keep you on calls longer than needed.
    This tactic is used to drain money from pay-per-minute or per-transfer models.

✅ The Solution: Protecting Yourself and Your Business

To avoid being scammed:

  • Use verified lead sources. Platforms like Integrity’s LeadCENTER vet all lead vendors, require proof of consent, and ensure compliance with industry laws.
  • Document everything. Keep receipts, call logs, and lead data records to protect yourself in case of disputes.
  • Educate your team. Make sure every agent knows how to recognize fraudulent practices.
  • Report suspicious vendors. Send details of scams to legal@integrity.com so compliance teams can investigate.

📚 Resources & References

What to Do if You’ve Been Targeted

  1. Stop payments immediately if you suspect fraud.
  2. File a complaint with the FTC and your state’s insurance department.
  3. Alert your upline or carrier. Using fraudulent leads could violate your contract.
  4. Educate others. Share your story with colleagues to prevent them from falling into the same trap.

Final Thoughts

Leads are the lifeblood of your business, but bad vendors are waiting to prey on unsuspecting agents. By staying alert, sticking to vetted sources, and reporting scams, you can protect your business, your license, and your reputation.

🔒 Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. Always verify compliance guidelines with your agency, carriers, or legal counsel.

✍️ About the Author: Written by A.L. Childers, an experienced writer and advocate for ethical practices in sales and insurance. Audrey’s mission is to protect hardworking professionals from predatory business practices and provide resources to help them succeed with integrity.

Dead Peasant Insurance? The Shocking Way Companies Can Profit from Your Death

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When you think of life insurance, you imagine protecting your loved ones. But what if your employer—not your spouse, children, or family—was the one cashing in on your death?

This isn’t fiction. It’s reality, and it has a name: Key Employee Life Insurance or, more disturbingly, “dead peasant insurance.”

What Happens to Your Life Insurance If You Leave a Job? The Secret No One Tells You

Here’s the unsettling truth: when a company purchases a life insurance policy on you, they own it. That means they pay the premiums, control the policy, and name themselves as the beneficiary. If you leave the company, the policy can still remain in force. Years later, if you die while working somewhere else, your old employer—not your grieving family—collects the death benefit.

For families, this can feel like a betrayal. For corporations, it’s just another strategy to manage “risk” and increase profits.

Key Employee Insurance: How Companies Keep Collecting Even After You’ve Moved On

This practice falls under Corporate-Owned Life Insurance (COLI). Originally, it was marketed as a way for companies to protect themselves financially if a top executive—like a CEO or VP—died unexpectedly. It made sense when policies were limited to true “key people.”

But by the late 1980s and 1990s, corporations began extending these policies to rank-and-file employees, many of whom had no idea their lives were insured for the benefit of their employer. Critics argue this turned human beings into financial instruments.

A Brief History: When Did “Dead Peasant Insurance” Begin?

  • 1980s–1990s Expansion: Companies discovered tax advantages in holding massive amounts of COLI. Some policies were even written on thousands of low-level workers.
  • Walmart Scandal (1990s–2000s): Walmart bought life insurance on cashiers, janitors, and clerks—employees who were anything but “key.” When they passed away, Walmart collected millions in benefits while families received nothing. Public outrage led to lawsuits, but the practice remained legal in many states.
  • Banking Industry Boom (2000s–Today): Major banks like JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America now hold more than $100 billion in COLI policies, treating them as investment tools.

The story of COLI is less about protecting companies and more about exploiting loopholes for profit.

From Walmart to Wall Street: How Big Business Cashes In

  • Walmart: Sued after employees’ families discovered the company had quietly profited from their deaths.
  • Dow Chemical & Procter & Gamble: Both exposed for holding large COLI portfolios.
  • Banks: Some of the largest holders of COLI in history. In fact, for many banks, employee death benefits are listed as part of their investment strategies.

Are You Worth More Dead Than Alive to Your Employer?

It’s an uncomfortable question, but for some companies, the answer may be “yes.” If you leave a job, you may assume your connection with that employer is severed. But in the world of COLI, your body remains tied to their balance sheet.

For corporations, your death may be a payday. For your family, it’s a tragedy without financial relief.

Why Does This Happen?

  1. Tax Advantages: Death benefits are tax-free.
  2. Corporate Asset Growth: Companies can borrow against policies or treat them as investment vehicles.
  3. Lack of Transparency: Employees often never know policies exist in the first place.

The result is a controversial but perfectly legal practice that blurs the line between risk management and exploitation.

Notable Companies Known for COLI Practices

  • Walmart
    Infamously, Walmart purchased life insurance policies on rank-and-file employees without their knowledge. In one case, the company collected benefits when 132 Florida employees passed away under such a program. Walmart discontinued the practice around 2000 Wikipedia+9WFSU News+9Bankrate+9.
  • Procter & Gamble (P&G)
    Held policies covering approximately 15,000 employees as part of their COLI portfolio The Wall Street Journal.
  • Nestlé USA
    Maintained policies on about 18,000 employees Investopedia+15The Wall Street Journal+15Recruiter.com+15.
  • Pitney Bowes Inc.
    Insured roughly 23,000 employees under COLI arrangements WFSU News+12The Wall Street Journal+12Investopedia+12.
  • Winn-Dixie
    One of the earliest and most notable cases from the 1980s: they insured around 36,000 employees without their knowledge, coining internal references to “dead peasant insurance” Policygenius+10Recruiter.com+10quickquote.com+10.
  • Banks & Financial Institutions
    Major players like JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo hold collective COLI portfolios exceeding $100 billion, treating these life-insurance holdings partly as investment tools Investopedia+2CB Acker Associates+2.
  • Hershey’s
    Cited on forums like Reddit in discussions of companies using COLI policies—though direct media citations are sparse Reddit.

Additional Mentions via Commentary

A Reddit post in r/todayilearned notes that companies such as Walmart, P&G, and Hershey’s have utilized COLI, although the latter’s practices remain less publicly documented Reddit.

Summary Table

CompanyApprox. Employees Insured / Notes
WalmartRank-and-file employees; practice ceased around 2000
Procter & Gamble~15,000 employees
Nestlé USA~18,000 employees
Pitney Bowes~23,000 employees
Winn-Dixie~36,000 employees (1980s)
Major BanksCollective COLI holdings > $100 billion
Hershey’sMentioned in commentary forums

Why This Matters

These examples highlight how corporations have historically used COLI not just for high-level executives, but also on lower-paid staff, often without consent or awareness—prompting both public backlash and regulatory scrutiny.

Dead Peasant Insurance: What Actually Changed?

Walmart: lawsuits + public blowback

  • What happened: Through the 1990s, Walmart bought corporate-owned life insurance (COLI) on tens of thousands of rank-and-file workers (not just executives). Families later learned the company could collect when former employees died and sued across several states. The Wall Street JournalMidland Reporter-TelegramCFO
  • Outcomes: Walmart discontinued the broad program and paid multimillion-dollar settlements (e.g., a $5.1M class action in Oklahoma). Courts and coverage highlighted standing issues for families and fueled legislative scrutiny. CFOLaw360WFSU News
  • Why it mattered: The cases moved “dead peasant insurance” into the spotlight, helping catalyze reforms that later required notice & consent and IRS reporting for employer-owned life insurance. The Florida BarIRSGovernment Accountability Office

Winn-Dixie: IRS wins the “tax shelter” fight

  • What happened: Winn-Dixie insured roughly 36,000 employees, borrowed against the policies, and deducted the loan interest. The IRS disallowed the deductions as a sham tax-arbitrage play. The Tax Court and 11th Circuit agreed. QuimbeeCaseLaw
  • What changed: The government’s win (and similar cases) slammed the door on leveraged COLI interest-deduction schemes, shaping later statutory guardrails. Justice DepartmentSenate Finance Committee

Dow Chemical (and peers): the “economic substance” line

  • What happened: Dow bought COLI on thousands of employees and deducted interest/fees tied to policy loans. After mixed early results, the Sixth Circuit held Dow’s COLI transactions lacked economic substance, siding with the IRS. Similar outcomes hit American Electric Power and others. Justia Law+1Justice Departmentappalachianpower.com
  • Why it mattered: These rulings cemented a judicial consensus: tax benefits built on circular policy-loan strategies wouldn’t fly, even before Congress rewired the rules. IRS

Wall Street (BOLI): regulators step in

  • Context: Banks keep very large bank-owned life insurance (BOLI) portfolios (aggregate tens of billions) as long-term assets. Regulators didn’t ban BOLI, but tightened risk-management expectations.
  • Regulatory response: In 2004, the OCC, Fed, FDIC, and OTS issued an Interagency Statement directing banks to treat BOLI like any other material risk (capital, liquidity, concentration, carrier risk, insurable-interest law, etc.). OCC.govOCC.govFDIC

The Big Legal/Policy Shifts (What’s different today?)

  1. Notice & Consent now mandatory (post-2006).
    The Pension Protection Act of 2006 added IRC §101(j): to exclude death benefits from income, employers generally must obtain written notice and consent before issuance and the insured must be an employee at issuance (plus meet specific exceptions). Annual reporting via Form 8925 under §6039I also applies. IRSGovernment Accountability Office
  2. “Economic substance” doctrine applied to COLI tax plays.
    Courts repeatedly rejected interest-deduction schemes on COLI loans (Winn-Dixie, AEP, Dow), curbing the 1990s tax-arbitrage model. CaseLawJustia Law+1
  3. Regulators codified bank risk expectations.
    The OCC/FDIC/Fed guidance (2004) set explicit supervisory expectations for BOLI purchase, monitoring, and concentration risk. OCC.govFDIC
  4. Still legal to keep policies after you leave (if state law allows).
    GAO testimony notes that, unless state law restricts it, employers can retain business-owned policies even after employment ends—one reason the practice remains controversial despite reforms. Government Accountability Office

Ethics: why people still bristle

  • Moral hazard & optics. Even with notice/consent, the idea that a past employer can profit from a former worker’s death rubs many the wrong way. Policymakers worried about incentives and transparency, and law journals have urged Congress to go further. UC Law SF Scholarship Repositoryhastingslawjournal.org
  • Data gaps. GAO highlighted that comprehensive data on prevalence/uses are limited, complicating oversight and informed debate. Government Accountability Office

Handy Timeline

  • Late 1980s–1990s: Broad COLI programs proliferate; some states loosen “insurable interest” rules; companies extend coverage to rank-and-file. The Florida Bar
  • 1999–2006: IRS and courts dismantle tax-arbitrage COLI (Winn-Dixie, AEP, Dow, others). CaseLawJustia Law+1
  • 2004: Interagency BOLI risk-management guidance for banks. OCC.gov
  • 2006: PPA adds §101(j) and §6039I, formalizing notice/consent and reporting for employer-owned policies. IRSGovernment Accountability Office

Sources & Further Reading

  • IRS Notice 2009-48 (guidance on §101(j) employer-owned life insurance). IRS
  • GAO testimony & report on business-owned life insurance (prevalence and oversight). Government Accountability Office+1
  • OCC Bulletin 2004-56 & attachment: Interagency Statement on BOLI risk management. OCC.govOCC.gov
  • Winn-Dixie Stores v. Commissioner (11th Cir.): interest deductions denied as lacking economic substance. CaseLaw
  • Dow Chemical v. United States (6th Cir.) and related filings: economic-substance rejection of COLI tax shelter. Justia LawJustice Department
  • American Electric Power v. United States (district court ruling against AEP; company release). Justia Lawappalachianpower.com
  • Walmart litigation/settlements (news and legal coverage). CFOLaw360WFSU News
  • Florida Bar Journal overview of EOLI abuses & insurable-interest shifts. The Florida Bar
  • Investopedia explainer (plain-English summary of today’s COLI limits).

References

  • Crenshaw, Albert B. “How Corporations Profit When Employees Die.” Washington Post, 2002.
  • U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) reports on Corporate-Owned Life Insurance (COLI).
  • Wall Street Journal, “Dead Peasant Insurance Lawsuits Against Walmart.”
  • National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) guidelines on COLI.

About the Author

A.L. Childers is an author, journalist, and researcher who digs into the uncomfortable truths corporations and governments would rather keep quiet. Known for exposing hidden systems and overlooked stories, Childers writes to empower readers with knowledge that sparks change.

Disclaimer

This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, legal, or insurance advice. Readers should consult qualified professionals before making decisions regarding life insurance policies or corporate practices.

“Did you know your old employer could profit from your death years after you leave? Learn the truth about Key Employee Life Insurance — also called ‘dead peasant insurance’ — and how corporations like Walmart and major banks have made billions from employee death benefits. Discover the hidden policies, real-world examples, and why this practice sparks outrage.”

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Did You Know Your Old Employer Could Profit from Your Death Years After You Leave?

Most people assume life insurance exists to protect their families. But what if your employer—not your loved ones—was the one who benefitted when you die, even years after you’ve moved on to another job? Welcome to the unsettling world of Key Employee Life Insurance, often called “dead peasant insurance.”

What Is Key Employee Life Insurance?

Key Employee Life Insurance (or Corporate-Owned Life Insurance, COLI) is a policy that a company purchases on employees it considers valuable. The company pays the premiums, owns the policy, and is the sole beneficiary.

Here’s the twist: if you leave that company, the policy can remain in force unless the employer chooses to cancel it. That means your former company could one day profit from your death—even if you’re working elsewhere, living your life, and contributing nothing to their bottom line anymore.

Why Do Companies Do This?

  1. Financial Protection – They claim it cushions losses if a key employee dies unexpectedly.
  2. Tax Benefits – Death benefits are typically tax-free, making COLI a financial strategy.
  3. Corporate Assets – Companies can use policies as collateral or borrow against them.

But critics argue that this transforms human lives into financial instruments, raising ethical red flags.

Real-World Examples: Companies That Profited

  • Walmart: In the 1990s and early 2000s, Walmart bought life insurance policies on thousands of low-level employees—cashiers, clerks, and stockers—without their knowledge. Families received nothing, while Walmart reaped millions in death payouts. Lawsuits brought national attention to the issue.
  • Big Banks: JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo collectively hold over $100 billion in COLI policies. These banks treat policies as investment assets, benefiting when former employees pass away.
  • Dow Chemical & Procter & Gamble: Both were exposed in the 1990s for maintaining massive COLI portfolios, profiting from employees long gone from the company.

The Human Side of “Dead Peasant Insurance”

Imagine leaving a job after ten years, building a new career elsewhere, and unexpectedly passing away. While your family struggles with loss, your former employer cashes a multi-million-dollar check. They might not have paid you in years, but your death still enriches them.

That’s why critics call it “dead peasant insurance”—a stark reminder of how corporations can value employees more as numbers than as people.

Why This Sparks Outrage

  • Lack of Transparency: Many employees never know policies exist.
  • Ethical Questions: Should a company profit from someone who no longer works there?
  • Family Impact: Families often receive nothing, even though they bear the real loss.

While legal in many states, these practices leave a bitter taste for those who believe life insurance should protect loved ones, not pad corporate profits.

References

  • Crenshaw, Albert B. “How Corporations Profit When Employees Die.” Washington Post, 2002.
  • U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO): Reports on Corporate-Owned Life Insurance.
  • Wall Street Journal coverage of Walmart lawsuits on employee life insurance.
  • National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) on COLI practices.

About the Author

A.L. Childers is an author and researcher uncovering the hidden truths behind corporate practices, government policies, and societal systems. With a commitment to shining light on what’s kept in the dark, Childers writes to inform, challenge, and empower readers.

Disclaimer

This blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide financial, legal, or insurance advice. Readers should consult licensed professionals before making any decisions regarding life insurance or corporate practices.

Dead or Alive: How Companies Profit from Key Employee Life Insurance Policies

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When you accept a new position at a company, the last thing on your mind is what happens if you die. Yet, for many corporations, your death could be worth more to them than your life. Enter Key Employee Life Insurance (often called “dead peasant insurance”).

This type of policy allows a company to purchase life insurance on its employees—especially executives or those deemed “key” to operations. The company owns the policy, pays the premiums, and is the beneficiary. The kicker? Even if you leave for another job years later, unless the policy is canceled, the old company may still cash in when you pass away.

How Long Can They Keep It?

If a company takes out a Key Employee Life Insurance policy on you, they may legally continue to own and benefit from it long after you’ve left the job, unless they choose to surrender or transfer it. This means if you move to Company Y and tragically pass away, Company X still collects the payout, not your family, your estate, or your new employer.

This arrangement is perfectly legal in many states under corporate-owned life insurance (COLI) laws, though it has sparked controversy for decades.

Real-World Examples of Profiting from Employee Death

  • Walmart (1990s–2000s): Walmart notoriously purchased life insurance policies on thousands of rank-and-file employees without their knowledge. The company reaped millions in death benefits, while grieving families received nothing. Lawsuits later revealed Walmart was just one of many large corporations engaging in the practice.
  • Banks and Financial Institutions: JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America collectively held billions in corporate-owned life insurance policies, often described as a “tax shelter with a death benefit.” Reports suggest major U.S. banks maintain upwards of $100 billion in COLI coverage.
  • Dow Chemical and Procter & Gamble: These companies were also revealed to have invested heavily in COLI, often benefiting from the deaths of employees who had long since moved on.

Why Do Companies Do This?

  1. Financial Cushion: The payout helps offset the loss of a key employee, covering recruitment, training, or profit loss.
  2. Tax Advantages: Death benefits are usually tax-free, making COLI a lucrative corporate asset.
  3. Investment Strategy: Some corporations use COLI as a long-term investment, borrowing against it for capital while waiting for the eventual payout.

The Ethical Debate

Critics argue this practice commodifies human life, reducing employees to mere financial instruments. Families often remain unaware that a past employer profits from their loved one’s death. Supporters, on the other hand, insist it’s a legitimate business practice to safeguard corporate stability.

References

  • Barmash, Isadore. “The Corporate Life Insurance Scandal.” The New York Times, 1990s.
  • Crenshaw, Albert B. “How Corporations Profit When Employees Die.” Washington Post, 2002.
  • U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO): Reports on Corporate-Owned Life Insurance.
  • Wall Street Journal coverage on Walmart’s “dead peasant insurance” lawsuits.

About the Author

A.L. Childers is an author and researcher who explores the hidden truths behind corporate practices, government policies, and the forces that shape our lives. With a sharp eye for uncovering what others overlook, Childers writes to inform, inspire, and ignite change.

Disclaimer

This blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as financial, legal, or insurance advice. Readers should consult qualified professionals before making any decisions regarding life insurance or corporate policies.

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“Did you know your old employer could profit from your death years after you leave? Learn the truth about Key Employee Life Insurance — also called ‘dead peasant insurance’ — and how corporations like Walmart and major banks have made billions from employee death benefits. Discover the hidden policies, real-world examples, and why this practice sparks outrage.”

THE HUSTLE HIT LIST

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Disclaimer:
The information provided in The Hustle Hit List is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the content, results may vary based on individual effort, experience, market conditions, and other external factors.

This book does not guarantee income or financial success. It is not a substitute for professional legal, financial, or business advice. Readers are encouraged to do their own research, consult with appropriate professionals, and exercise due diligence before engaging in any business venture or side hustle listed in this guide.

The author, A.L. Childers, shares personal experiences and resources that have worked for her and others; however, no liability will be assumed for any losses or damages incurred directly or indirectly from the use of this book.

All company names, platforms, and websites referenced belong to their respective owners and do not constitute endorsements.

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  • 9-to-5ers dying for an exit plan
  • Gen Xers tired of being overlooked
  • Creatives, writers, builders, dreamers
  • Anyone who’s done waiting and ready to build their own money machine

👑 About the Author: A.L. Childers

A.L. Childers is a fierce truth-teller, serial hustler, and author of over 50 titles including books on health, financial survival, and uncovering hidden truths. She’s also the creator of the blog TheHypothyroidismChick.com, where she shares real talk, healing tips, and business advice for people ready to break the matrix.

🎥 Follow her on TikTok: @BreakTheMatrixAudrey
📚 Browse all books on Amazon: Just search “A.L. Childers”

📦 Grab Your Copy Now!

👉 Available in paperback and hardcover on Amazon

This isn’t theory. This is a blueprint.
This isn’t fluff. This is your freedom.

⚠️ Disclaimer:

The content in Hustle Hit List and on this blog is for informational and educational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, results are never guaranteed. Success in any hustle or business endeavor depends on a variety of factors, including but not limited to your effort, skill, location, and consistency.

A.L. Childers and TheHypothyroidismChick.com are not responsible for any financial loss, business outcome, or legal issues that may arise from following the strategies or links provided. Please do your own research and consult professionals where necessary — especially when it comes to taxes, business licenses, or health and legal matters.

This is real talk, not financial advice. Hustle wisely.

Trapped by the Fine Print: Florida’s New Job Gag Order and the Non-Compete Crackdown

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Florida just passed a law that may sound like it’s about protecting businesses—but for high-paid employees, it’s more like a velvet chokehold. Under the new Florida non-compete legislation, some workers can be legally blocked from working in their own profession for up to four years.

And if that sounds like a modern-day form of career imprisonment? It kind of is.

🧾 What Florida Just Did—and Why You Should Care

As of July 1, 2025, Florida expanded its support of non-compete agreements, particularly targeting workers making about $140,000+ per year. This new law allows employers to enforce non-compete clauses with longer durations and broader scope—up to four years of job restrictions for highly paid workers.

This isn’t just about executive roles. It affects professionals, tech experts, healthcare workers, and anyone with specialized skills who may want to switch jobs, freelance, or even start their own company. Now, many of them legally can’t—at least not without risking a lawsuit.

So if you thought Florida was a “right to work” state, think again. It might be more accurate to say: “You have the right to work… unless your last boss says otherwise.”

⚖️ But Wait—Other States Are Doing the Opposite

While Florida is clamping down on mobility, other states are fighting back against non-compete clauses:

🚫 States That Ban Non-Competes Entirely:

  • California
  • Minnesota
  • North Dakota
  • Oklahoma
  • Washington, D.C.

In these places, you can quit your job and take your skills anywhere without being sued. Period.

⚠️ States With Restrictions or Salary Thresholds:

  • Illinois: Banned for anyone making less than $75,000.
  • Colorado: Only allowed to protect trade secrets.
  • Massachusetts: Must pay 50% of the employee’s salary during the restriction period.
  • Washington, Oregon, Virginia, Maryland, Rhode Island: All have income-based limits or short-duration rules.

Meanwhile, the FTC proposed a national ban on non-competes in 2024—but corporations lawyered up fast. The ban is currently on hold, tied up in legal battles, with no set date for enforcement.

💼 What This Means for Employees

Whether you’re in sales, healthcare, tech, or marketing—check your employment contract. That little clause buried in the fine print could block you from working in your field for years if you leave.

Florida’s law allows companies to:

  • Prevent you from working anywhere in the same industry
  • Restrict your employment for up to 4 years
  • Enforce it even if they terminate you

And no—you don’t always have to “sign it to keep the job.” Many workers feel forced to sign, unaware of their rights or state’s stance.

🛑 What You Can Do

  1. Know your rights. Research your state’s non-compete laws or visit Nolo.com or your state’s Department of Labor website.
  2. Negotiate upfront. If a non-compete is in your contract, ask for modifications or removal—especially if you’re not in a high-level role.
  3. Consult a lawyer. If you’re under a non-compete now, don’t make a move without legal advice.
  4. Support legislative change. Many states are pushing for freedom to work. Be part of the conversation.

📣 Final Thoughts: Who Really Owns Your Time?

Non-compete clauses are being sold as “pro-business,” but here’s the question:

At what point does protecting a business become silencing a worker?

When you can’t take your talent somewhere else, when you can’t launch your dream, when your past employer controls your future—that’s not capitalism. That’s corporate bondage.

Florida just handed that leash to employers—and it won’t stop there unless people speak up.

🔖 Share this blog if you know someone in Florida or any other state who’s ever signed a job contract without reading the fine print.

The Real Cost of Becoming a Notary Public: Beyond the Glamour and TikToks

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We’ve all seen the glamorous TikToks and YouTube videos: notaries driving sleek cars, living their best mobile life, and cashing in $150 per loan signing. It looks like the ultimate work-from-anywhere job. But here’s the truth no one tells you — becoming a notary isn’t cheap, and it’s far from instant money.

I want to share my personal journey and real numbers to help anyone out there who’s considering diving into this career. This isn’t a post to discourage you — it’s one to prepare you.

Step-by-Step: What It Really Costs to Become a Notary in North Carolina

1. The Notary Class & Application

  • Notary Public Class: $147 (at CPCC or similar)
  • Secretary of State Application Fee: $50
  • Register of Deeds Fee: $10 (plus printed approval email + ID)

Subtotal so far: $210

2. Basic Notary Supplies

  • Notary Stamp
  • Journal
  • Notary Bag
  • Clipboard
  • Receipt Book
  • Pens, Stapler, Highlighters

Estimated Cost: $200

3. Electronic Notary (e-Notary) Certification

  • 4-Hour e-Notary Class: $102
  • e-Notary Application Fee: $50
  • Notary Bond + Insurance: $100–$200
  • Electronic Notary Seal: $20–$50
  • Live Scan Fingerprinting: $45–$80

Estimated Cost: $300–$400

4. Loan Signing Agent Certification

  • Loan Signing Training Course: $299 (Loan Signing System or similar)
  • NNA Membership + Background Check: $300

Subtotal: $599

5. Office Equipment

  • Dual Tray Printer: $300–$700 (Epson, Brother, HP)
  • Portable Scanner: $200+
  • Mobile Hotspot/Internet on the Go: $20+/month

Estimated Equipment Cost: $700–$1,000+

6. Marketing & Business Setup

  • Business Cards: $20–$50
  • Website (optional): $50–$100/year
  • Advertising (Google, Yelp, Thumbtack): Variable

Total Estimated Investment to Become a Fully-Equipped Notary Signing Agent: $1,800 – $2,900+

This doesn’t include gas, car maintenance, scheduling tools, or continuing education — all of which add up over time.

My Personal Experience

Right now, I’ve completed the notary class, submitted my application, taken my oath, and purchased my basic supplies. I’m still working my way through the rest — step by step, as funds allow.

So when people ask why I haven’t made $5,000 yet — it’s because I’m building a business from the ground up. I don’t have a trust fund or a $3,000 cushion to get started. And that’s okay. Because slow progress is still progress.

Like they say: it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

Want to Get Started? Here’s Where to Begin:

If you found this helpful, share it with someone thinking of becoming a notary. And if you’re on this journey too — I see you, I support you, and I’m rooting for you.

When the Market Shakes, the Sharpest Rise: A Playbook for Entrepreneurs in Chaotic Times

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Margins are tighter. Competition is fiercer. The pressure? It’s relentless.
If you’re building a business right now, you already know: this isn’t a game for the faint of heart.

But here’s the secret few talk about:
🧨 In every crisis, the sharpest entrepreneurs rise.

Yes, even in chaos.
Especially in chaos.

In the middle of economic uncertainty and shifting algorithms, it’s not about waiting for better timing — it’s about becoming better within the timing.

This isn’t about fluffy motivation. It’s about practical, proven frameworks that build unshakable brands, multiply your sales, and keep your mindset bulletproof.

🔥 Step 1: Discomfort Is a Prerequisite, Not a Problem

The most unstoppable people don’t avoid pain — they build calluses over it. They lean into discomfort, using grit as fuel. Whether you’re bootstrapping a brand or launching your next offer, success requires endurance. Physical, mental, and emotional stamina.

ACTION: Schedule one daily habit that challenges you. Something that hurts a little. It’s training for the market storms.

💼 Step 2: Start Small, Scale Smart

There are people who turned $1,000 into multi-million dollar businesses — not because they had everything figured out, but because they didn’t wait. They moved. They learned while doing. Smart growth isn’t about perfection — it’s about consistency and courageous experimentation.

ACTION: Revisit your offer. Does it solve a specific, painful problem? If not, tweak it until it does.

🧠 Step 3: Your Mindset Is the Strategy

If you’re stuck in survival mode, your business will stay there too. The people who rise in crisis use setbacks as fuel. They don’t just bounce back — they bounce higher.

ACTION: Write your “comeback story” as if it’s already happened. Frame your current challenges as setup, not setback.

💰 Step 4: Move Like Smart Money

Recession? Uncertainty? The smartest business leaders don’t freeze — they reposition. They diversify. They double down on profitable sectors and cut emotional spending. In hard times, they don’t spend less, they spend smarter.

ACTION: Review your monthly expenses. Which tools, subscriptions, or services aren’t bringing ROI? Eliminate or replace them.

📣 Step 5: Dominate Attention — or Disappear

In 2025, attention is currency. If you’re not in the conversation, you’re invisible. The noise is louder, yes — but that just means your message needs to be sharper. Be real. Be bold. Be everywhere your audience is.

ACTION: Create one high-value piece of content this week — blog, podcast, video, email — and repurpose it across platforms.

This Isn’t the End. It’s the Start of Your Ascent.

What if the chaos you’re living through is actually your training ground?
What if your future customers are waiting for you to stop overthinking and show up?

You’re not alone. And you don’t have to figure it all out by morning.

Start here.
Start now.
Start with what’s real — and build from there.

👩‍💼 About the Author

A.L. Childers is a truth-bomb-dropping business author, wellness advocate, and founder of The Freckled Oracle™ and Southern Signature Group™. With years of experience helping professionals pivot from burnout to breakthrough, she now writes empowering guides, blogs, and books that blend strategy with soul. Her motto? “Big Boss Energy — with Southern Reliability.”

📚 Books by A.L. Childers:

  • The Agent’s Arsenal: 100 Powerful Rebuttals to Help Clients and Close Deals
  • The Quantum Leap: Habits That Reshape Your Reality
  • The Freckled Oracle’s Guide to Boss Energy
    Find them all on Amazon or at TheHypothyroidismChick.com.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This blog is for educational and motivational purposes only. Always consult financial or legal professionals before making major business decisions.

📚 Resources & Further Reading