Hannah Aster, Author at Shortform Books

Overemployment: Why Many Americans Are Working Multiple Jobs

A cartoon of a woman using two laptops as she works multiple jobs.

Why are many Americans working multiple jobs at once? How does overemployment impact workers and employers? What’s the future of overworking in the US? Overemployment—working multiple jobs simultaneously—is a growing trend that’s enabling some Americans to significantly increase their incomes. While providing clear financial upsides, prolonged overemployment can negatively impact professionals’ mental health, job security, and relationships with employers. Here’s a look at the upsides and downsides of overemployment.

Does US Defense Spending Help the Economy?

Do increased investments in missiles, fighter jets, and other military resources really create American jobs? Do they pose economic risks that could undermine US interests over time? US defense spending is said to bolster economic development and foster job creation, but some analysts caution that increased defense spending may not be a boon for economic growth. Hiring challenges, supply chain snarls, and other issues are delaying defense contractors’ peak production. Here’s a look at whether defense spending helps the economy or not.

Sensory Hours Create an Inclusive Shopping Experience

What are sensory hours? What measures are implemented during sensory hours? What companies have adopted them? Major chains like Walmart now offer special “sensory hours” to create a low-stimulus shopping environment for customers with sensory sensitivities. Experts say sensory accommodations benefit both consumers who struggle with noisy and crowded stores and companies seeking to expand their customer base. Continue reading to learn about sensory hours and the impact they have on customers and businesses.

What Causes Seasonal Depression (+ Tips for Treating It)

What causes seasonal depression? How common is the disorder? What are some ways to prevent or treat the symptoms? When the days get darker and colder, it’s hard not to feel a little down. But sometimes the “winter blues” are something more—seasonal depression—a surprisingly common form of depression. Keep reading to learn what causes seasonal depression, who it affects, and what you can do to help it.

How AI Could Improve Patient Care (if Used Properly)

What potential does generative AI offer to transform doctor-patient relationships in the US? How might chatbots empower patients? AI could revolutionize the doctor-patient relationship in America by empowering patients with information and alleviating pressures on overburdened doctors. As generative AI becomes powerful and broadly used, AI companies and healthcare organizations must mitigate its potential risks and ensure its ethical, effective use. Here’s how AI in patient care may be used to improve the healthcare experience.

Impacts of the National Association of Realtors Lawsuit

What does the National Association of Realtors lawsuit mean for major brokerages? What changes could the verdict realistically bring about? Who stands to benefit if commissions drop? In October, a federal antitrust lawsuit verdict found the National Association of Realtors and other big brokerages guilty of colluding to inflate home selling commissions. Experts forecast a substantial shakeup in the industry. Below we’ll take a look at the National Association of Realtors lawsuit and what it means for brokerages and home buyers alike.

Elon Musk’s Tesla Cybertruck: Can It Save Tesla?

What led to the Cybertruck’s protracted production problems? How vital is the vehicle’s success to Tesla’s business strategy? Does the polarizing truck have breakout potential or niche appeal? Elon Musk’s Tesla Cybertruck, unveiled recently, has been besieged by production challenges, largely associated with the company’s use of the notoriously difficult-to-manipulate hardened stainless steel. Tesla confronts economic headwinds and slipping market share, and hopes the Cybertruck can ignite sales growth. Here’s a look at the Cybertruck’s production issues and why sales are so vital for Tesla.

Deflation in America: A Cause for Celebration or Concern?

Is deflation in America a good or bad thing? How does it impact American households and the broader economy? In mid-November, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon and investor Cathie Wood flagged the potential of a deflationary period in the US, citing shifting consumer behavior and falling prices. Deflation, while promising lower prices for consumers, can signal a slowing economy and lead to wage cuts, job losses, and potentially a recession. Here’s a look at what deflation would mean for US citizens.

2023 US Holiday Sales Show a Complicated Economy

Is holiday spending breaking records or masking economic troubles? What’s the outlook for shopping trends? How are retailers being impacted? US holiday sales over Thanksgiving topped $10 billion online, but growth lags behind previous years. Shoppers are flocking to discount retailers, leaving traditional stores in the cold. “Buy now, pay later” programs are gaining traction, offering relief and risks for strained consumers. Continue reading to learn what the holiday sales numbers say about the US economy.

AI Model Collapse: What It Is & the Risks It Poses

What is AI model collapse? What are the consequences of model collapse? Is it already happening? Model collapse is the complete erosion of AI models that occurs when they’re trained on flawed content generated by other AI models. Model collapse can lead to nonsensical, inaccurate, and biased AI output. Experts say that diverse, human-curated data is key to stopping AI model collapse. Keep reading to learn about AI model collapse, and for examples of it happening today.