Newsletter Issue #472

                                 

Entrepreneur & Author
JeffCorbett.com

              

Business, Longevity & Travel

“Ideas shaping business, wellness, travel, and modern living this summer.” 

——- 

As summer momentum begins to build across the United States and abroad, this week’s issue explores the intersection of modern business, personal well-being, global lifestyle, and the evolving ways people are choosing to live and work. From the rise of lean, technology-driven entrepreneurship to healthier habits for both mind and body, many of today’s biggest trends share one common theme: people are seeking greater freedom, flexibility, and quality of life in an increasingly connected world.

Inside this week’s issue, we examine how one-person global companies are reshaping entrepreneurship, why food often feels different in Europe, and how retirees continue pursuing wealth-building opportunities well beyond traditional retirement age. We also look at practical topics ranging from polite communication and healthy aging to the growing popularity of Pilates, lightweight skincare oils, and brain-healthy habits that support long-term cognitive wellness.

And with the 2026 FIFA World Cup soon arriving across North America, we take a look at one of the biggest global sporting events ever hosted in the United States. Plus, in Travel, we explore why luxury desert destinations like Indian Wells can become surprisingly attractive summer escapes — offering warm evenings, smaller crowds, and exceptional value for travelers willing to embrace the season.

As always, thank you for being part of the Global Common Cents community. And if you think of it, please hit one of the share buttons to send this edition to a friend.

Jeff Corbett

Publisher | Global Common Cents

Sponsor of this Issue:

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Brain-Healthy Habits to Embrace

“Quick tips.” 

——-

Cognitive decline is a condition that is often associated with aging, but even middle-aged people can experience memory loss or cognition issues.

The Alzheimer’s Association says that more than five million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. By 2050, that number could rise to as high as 16 million people. More than 747,000 Canadians are living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia, says the Canadian Alzheimer’s Association.

Although there is no definitive way to prevent dementia, living a long, vibrant life may be possible by encouraging some healthy habits for the brain. It is never too late or too early to begin health and lifestyle changes.

Exercise

Becoming more active can improve brain volume, reduce risk for dementia and improve thinking and memory skills. The journal Neurology found that older people who vigorously exercise performed better on cognitive tests than others of the same age, placing them at the equivalent of 10 years younger. Increased blood flow that occurs with physical activity may help generate new neurons in the hippocampus, an area of the brain involved with learning and memory.

The Harvard Medical School says aerobic exercise may help improve brain tissue by improving blood flow and reducing the chances of injury to the brain from cholesterol buildup in blood vessels.

Quit smoking

The Alzheimer’s Association indicates that evidence shows smoking increases the risk of cognitive decline. Smoking can impair blood flow to the brain and cause small strokes that may damage blood vessels.

Eat healthy foods

Foods that are good for the heart and blood vessels also are good for the brain. These include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish-based proteins, unsaturated fats, and foods containing omega-3 fatty acids. Neurologists state that, while research on diet and cognitive function is limited, diets, such as Mediterranean and Mediterranean-DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), may contribute to a lower risk of cognitive issues.

Consume caffeine

Caffeine may help boost memory performance and brain health. A Journal of Nutrition study found people ages 70 and older who consumed more caffeine scored better on tests of mental function than those who consumed less caffeine. Caffeine may help improve attention span, cognitive function and feelings of well-being. Information from Psychology Today also indicates caffeine may help in the storage of dopamine, which can reduce feelings of depression and anxiety. In addition, compounds in cocoa and coffee beans may improve vascular health and help repair cellular damage due to high antioxidant levels.

Work the brain

Engaging in mentally stimulating activities can create new brain connections and more backup circuits, states Dr. Joel Salinas, a neurologist at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital. Working the brain through puzzles, reading and participating in social situations can stimulate the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a molecule essential for repairing brain cells and creating connections between them.

A good way to combine these lifestyle factors is to take an exercise class with friends, mixing the social, stimulation and exercise recommendations together.

Cognitive decline can come with aging, but through healthy habits, people can reduce their risk of memory loss and dementia.

The Rise of the One-Person Global Company

“How AI and digital platforms are allowing entrepreneurs to build international businesses.”   

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A quiet shift is taking place across the global business landscape. Entrepreneurs who once needed offices, large staffs, and significant startup capital can now operate internationally with little more than a laptop, specialized software, and a strong personal brand. Artificial intelligence tools are increasingly handling customer service, marketing, research, content creation, scheduling, accounting, and even basic design work, allowing founders to stay lean while expanding globally. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 58% of small businesses reported using generative AI in 2025, more than double the adoption rate seen in 2023, while 96% of owners said they planned to adopt emerging technologies in the future. According to Reimagine Main Street and PayPal, one in four small businesses already uses AI daily in operations, with more than half actively exploring implementation.

The trend is helping create what many now call the “one-person global company” — businesses where founders leverage technology, freelancers, and digital platforms to serve customers worldwide without building traditional corporate structures. Newsletters, consulting firms, digital publishing platforms, online education businesses, niche e-commerce brands, and creator-led media companies are increasingly operating this way. According to Goldman Sachs research cited in creator economy studies, the creator economy alone could approach half a trillion dollars globally by 2027. Meanwhile, research published in 2026 by scholars studying more than 160,000 product launches on Product Hunt found that entrepreneurial activity surged following the release of ChatGPT, driven disproportionately by solo founders launching lean businesses with AI support.

Still, the rise of the one-person global company does not mean entrepreneurship has become easy. The competition is intense, algorithms constantly shift, and building trust remains difficult in a crowded digital environment. According to Upwork Research, many small businesses that successfully navigated economic uncertainty in 2025 did so by combining AI tools with flexible talent models and rapid experimentation rather than simply reducing costs. The most successful entrepreneurs continue to focus on clarity, consistency, and credibility — qualities technology alone cannot replace. AI may reduce operational barriers, but long-term business success still depends on human judgment, relationships, adaptability, and the ability to build genuine audience trust across borders.

Tips to Grow Wealth After Retirement

“Retirees are living longer.”

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Personal finances and retirement are inextricably linked. Retirement planning services and advocates emphasize the significance of building a sizable nest egg for the days when professionals are no longer working, but many now also note the importance of building that nest egg after retiring.

The need to build wealth even after retiring reflects a trend that has seen people spend more time in retirement over the last half century than in the decades prior.

According to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, men could expect to spend just under 13 years in retirement and women 16.6 years in retirement in 1970. By 2024, the expected retirement length had reached 18.6 years for men and 21.3 years for women. That means modern professionals will spend a half decade more in retirement than people did in 1970. Those extra five years require more money for living expenses, which is why it can be so important for modern professionals to consider various ways to grow their wealth even after they call it a career.

With expected retirement lengths on the rise, retirees are encouraged to find ways to grow their nest eggs so they can enjoy retirement to the fullest.

Please keep in mind this information should not be considered as financial advice. Investment decisions should be based on individual research and consultation with a qualified financial professional. The value of investments can fluctuate, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Always consider your risk tolerance and financial goals before making investment decisions.  US citizens have unique tax requirements which should always be reviewed with a professional.

How to Interrupt Politely

by Candace Smith
The Etiquette Blog
Candace Smith Etiquette

Biography:  Candace Smith, wife of Nobel Prize-Winner Professor Dr. Vernon Smith and owner of the extraordinary blog, “Etiquette for the Business of Life” as featured by BBC, Chicago Tribune and USA Today offers her insights.

“The unspoken rules that drive outcomes.”

——-

We’re taught from a young age not to interrupt someone. And if you’ve ever been on the receiving end — mid-sentence, suddenly silenced — you know exactly why. It stings a little. It sends the message that what you’re saying doesn’t matter.

Yet, real life doesn’t always wait for a natural pause.

There are moments when you genuinely need to step in, whether it’s urgent, time-sensitive, or simply human. The good news? It is possible to give this rude behavior an etiquette-ful spin.

Why Do We Interrupt Someone in the First Place?

Before we talk about how to do it well, it helps to understand why it happens. Most interruptions aren’t malicious — they’re impulsive. Someone gets excited about a topic and jumps in before thinking. Someone’s impatient and wants to move the conversation forward. Someone’s mind is so focused on their own need that they forget, just for a moment, to consider yours.

Common reasons people interrupt someone include:

• Excitement to contribute to the conversation
• Eagerness to redirect the topic
• Impatience or a desire to get to the point more quickly

But not every interruption comes from selfishness. Sometimes a speaker has lost the room, and a well-timed interject can help refocus the conversation. Other times, someone may be struggling to find their words and welcomes a gentle assist.

How to Read the Room Before You Interrupt Someone

Timing is everything. Before you step in, take a moment to assess the conversation around you. Ask yourself:

• Is there a natural lull where my voice won’t feel like a collision?
• Is the speaker pausing long enough for me to interject?
• Will my interruption be seen as relevant and respectful, or will it feel disruptive no matter how carefully I word it?

Your awareness of the tone, the setting, and the people involved will guide you far better than any script. A formal business meeting calls for more restraint than a casual team brainstorm. A one-on-one conversation deserves more care than a lively group discussion.

Polite Ways to Interrupt Someone

When the moment calls for it, here are some graceful, etiquette-ful ways to interrupt someone without causing offense:

• Acknowledge the interruption
  “I know I’m interrupting here, but could I just add one thing . . .”
  “I understand you’re in the middle of your conversation, but I really need to ask . . .”

• Offer a brief apology
  “I’m sorry to cut in, but . . .”
  “Forgive me for interrupting, do you mind if I just say . . .”

• Ask permission first
  “May I jump in for just a second?”
  “Could I quickly add to that point?”

• Contribute to the conversation naturally
  “On that note, may I add . . .?”
  “While we’re on the subject . . .”
  “I love that perspective, and another thought worth considering is . . .”

In every case, a genuine smile and steady eye contact go a long way. They signal that you’re engaged, not dismissive. That you’re joining the conversation, not hijacking it.

Finding the Balance

None of us want to be known as an interrupter. But very few of us want to be the person who never speaks up, either — the one who holds back a valuable thought because the moment passed.

The goal isn’t silence. It’s consideration.

When you choose to interrupt someone thoughtfully — with acknowledgment, a light apology, or a simple ask for permission — you’re showing that you value both what they’re saying and what you have to contribute. That’s not rudeness. That’s conversation done with intention. And that, in any setting, is something worth practicing.

Best Lightweight Oils for Aging Skin

by Morayma MaKay
Writer / Blogger & Content Creator
Adulthood Rewired

Biography:  Morayma Makay is a fashion model, mother, and writer.  She has
dedicated the last 20 years to working in the fashion and health fields as
both a researcher and content creator.

“Support you physical wellness.”     

——-

As our skin changes with age, some of the biggest differences we notice is that it starts to  feel drier, thinner, and a little less “bouncy” than it used to. Makeup can start sitting differently, and products that once worked perfectly suddenly don’t seem to do much at all. That’s where facial oils can really help, but only if you’re using the right ones!

A good skincare oil doesn’t just sit on top of the skin making it look shiny or greasy. The best ones work hard to help support the skin barrier, lock in moisture, and soften the look of dryness and fine lines without feeling heavy or cloying, and while there are endless options of great skincare oils to choose from, a few stand out consistently for aging skin because they’re effective, gentle, and easy to work into a simple skincare routine.

Jojoba Oil

One of the best all-around oils is jojoba oil, although interestingly, jojoba isn’t technically an oil at all…it’s a wax ester that closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum. Because of that, it tends to absorb beautifully without leaving behind that greasy feeling some other oils can have. Jojoba is also especially good for skin that feels dry but also slightly sensitive or reactive as it helps soften and replenish the skin barrier without overwhelming it. People are also often surprised by how balanced their skin looks after using it consistently, even if they tend to have naturally oily skin, because instead of looking oily, jojoba helps the skin look calmer and healthier overall.

Rosehip Oil

Another standout is rosehip seed oil, which has become popular for quite a few good reasons! It’s naturally rich in essential fatty acids and Vitamin A compounds, making it particularly helpful for improving texture and brightness. It’s also lightweight, which makes it appealing for people who want hydration without a thick or heavy finish. A few drops pressed into damp skin at night, or mixed into your favorite lotion can leave the skin looking fresher by morning. The key with rosehip oil is consistency because it’s one of those skincare items that tends to quietly improve the overall appearance of the skin the longer you use it.

Argan Oil

Another fantastic skincare oil for mature skin is argan which is one of the best options for adding softness and moisture without clogging pores. Argan oil contains Vitamin E and antioxidants that help support skin elasticity and protect against environmental stressors that can speed up visible aging. What makes argan oil especially nice is how versatile it is. It works well on very dry skin, but it’s also lightweight enough for combination skin types, and gives the skin a smoother, more nourished look almost immediately. Fun fact, argan oil is also great for keeping your hair healthy…so once you use it on your skin you can run whatever is left over on your hands through your hair!

One thing worth mentioning is that facial oils work best when applied correctly. A lot of people apply them to completely dry skin and then wonder why they don’t seem very effective. Oils are best at sealing moisture in, so applying them as the last step over slightly damp skin, or after moisturizer, usually gives much better results. It’s also important not to overdo it…two or three drops is often enough for the entire face. Using more doesn’t necessarily improve results and can sometimes make skin feel congested instead of hydrated.

Of course, while oils can make a huge difference in how skin looks and feels, especially as we age, they work best as part of a bigger picture. Hydration, sleep, sun protection, and nutrition all show up on the skin eventually.  That said, the right oil can absolutely make skin look more comfortable, hydrated, and refreshed. Sometimes that’s exactly what’s needed…not skin that looks twenty again, but skin that looks healthy, cared for, and like itself in the best possible of ways!

What Distinguishes Pilates from Yoga?

“Both are low-impact.” 

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Yoga and Pilates are similar low-impact exercises but they are not exactly the same.

One of the ways they differ is that yoga involves achieving a position or pose and holding it. With Pilates, once the pose is reached, the person pushes further to engage the core and challenge the body by moving the arms or legs, advises WebMD. Individuals can explore the differences between Pilates and yoga to figure out which discipline aligns bests with their fitness goals.

Pilates

At the end of World War I, Joseph Pilates, who grew up in Dusseldorf, Germany, developed a series of exercises that would ultimately bear his name. As a sickly child suffering from rickets, asthma and rheumatic fever, Pilates aspired to overcome these ailments and devoted his energy to bodybuilding, gymnastics and other physical pursuits. While interned at a camp during the war, Pilates developed and taught a physical fitness grogram influenced by yoga and the movement of animals. He also built apparatuses to aid in the rehabilitation of soldiers and prisoners of war. According to Pilates Anytime, some believe the iron bed frames and coiled mattress springs in these camps became the inspiration for the Pilates Reformer, which is a device used in Pilates studios.

Pilates is a low-impact exercise that focuses on building core strength, which is achieved through different movements on a reformer machine or a mat. These moves require stabilizing the back and core before going through various range-of-motion exercises. The exercises rely on a person’s own body weight to provide resistance.

Yoga

The origins of yoga can be traced to thousands of years ago in India. Yoga is first mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures, says Healthline. Although it is an exercise, yoga also is an ancient spiritual practice that blends physical poses with breathing techniques. WebMD says yoga is sometimes called “meditative movement,” because it features elements of mindfulness. Yoga can have a slow pace suited for beginners, but some variations are faster and more complex. Yoga may help to improve balance, enhance calm and ease stress-related illnesses, and it also promotes flexibility.

Both yoga and Pilates can lead to improved stamina, strength and flexibility, and these exercises do not necessarily require any special equipment. However, yoga may stand alone from Pilates in that it also incorporates meditation and spirituality. Pilates may be more active than yoga, but both exercises are difficult in their own right. However, some people find it is easier for beginners to start with yoga and then branch out to Pilates. Regardless of the approach an individual ultimately takes, both exercises can be excellent ways for people to improve physical health.

Why Food Often Feels Different in Europe

“7 food additives banned in Europe but used in the United States.” 

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Many American travelers return from Europe saying they felt healthier, lighter, or less bloated while enjoying foods they normally avoid at home. While no single explanation tells the entire story, researchers and regulators point to meaningful differences in ingredients, food processing, and eating habits. According to the European Food Safety Authority and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Europe and the United States often regulate food additives differently, with European regulators generally applying stricter precautionary standards. Among the additives either banned, heavily restricted, or carrying warning labels in parts of Europe while still appearing in many American food products are potassium bromate, titanium dioxide, brominated vegetable oil (BVO), azodicarbonamide (ADA), Red Dye No. 3, propylparaben, and several synthetic food dyes including Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Red 40. Many of these ingredients are commonly associated with processed breads, soft drinks, candies, baked goods, and packaged snack foods sold throughout the United States.

In countries like Italy, the dining experience itself often feels noticeably different. Meals frequently emphasize fresh ingredients, moderation, and slower dining rather than heavily processed convenience foods. Pasta dishes are commonly prepared with shorter ingredient lists, olive oil, vegetables, seafood, or lighter sauces, while wine is traditionally consumed moderately alongside meals instead of separately in excess. According to research highlighted by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Mediterranean-style eating patterns centered on minimally processed foods, healthy fats, legumes, vegetables, and moderate wine consumption have been associated with improved cardiovascular and metabolic health. While no single ingredient determines overall wellness, many travelers discover that Europe’s combination of stricter food standards, smaller portions, walkable lifestyles, and more traditional culinary habits can create a noticeably different relationship with food and dining.

2026 World Cup Comes to America!

“June 11 to July19th.” 

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The 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring one of the largest sporting events in modern history to North America from June 11 through July 19, with the United States serving as the primary host nation alongside Canada and Mexico. According to FIFA, this will be the first World Cup featuring 48 national teams rather than 32, dramatically expanding the scale of the tournament. Matches in the United States will be played in Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, the New York/New Jersey area, Philadelphia, Seattle, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Dallas is expected to be one of the tournament’s centerpiece locations, with Arlington’s AT&T Stadium scheduled to host nine matches, including a semifinal. According to FIFA and FOX Sports, countries already qualified or automatically entered include the United States, Canada, Mexico, Argentina, Japan, Iran, and several others as qualification continues around the world.

For American viewers, FOX Sports and Telemundo will handle television coverage of the tournament, with matches airing nationally on FOX and FS1 and streaming available through FOX platforms and partner services. According to FOX Sports, all 104 matches will receive live coverage, making this the largest World Cup television presentation ever produced in the United States. The event is expected to deliver not only massive television audiences, but also a significant economic and tourism boost for host cities as millions of international visitors travel throughout North America during the five-week competition. For many Americans, the 2026 tournament may represent the most accessible World Cup experience in modern history, bringing the global spectacle of international football directly into U.S. stadiums and cities throughout the summer.

Desert Luxury During the Summer?

“Why summer in Indian Wells may be the desert’s best travel value. ” 

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Tucked into California’s Coachella Valley, Indian Wells is often associated with winter tourism and the world-famous BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament. But summer may quietly be one of the destination’s best-kept secrets. While daytime temperatures rise across the desert, the evenings frequently become surprisingly calm and comfortable, creating ideal conditions for outdoor dining, late-night swims, golf, and relaxing under clear desert skies. According to Visit Greater Palm Springs, the warmer months allow visitors to experience the area’s resorts, restaurants, and attractions with far fewer crowds than peak season. Travel + Leisure has similarly noted that desert summers offer minimal crowds and significantly reduced resort pricing, making luxury accommodations far more accessible during the off-season. My wife and I have personally made it a point to visit Indian Wells nearly every summer, and despite some restaurants temporarily closing during the hottest months, we have consistently enjoyed the quieter atmosphere, relaxed pace, and peaceful desert evenings.

For travelers seeking value without sacrificing atmosphere, Indian Wells in the summer can feel like discovering a private version of the desert. Hotel booking platforms such as Expedia and Hotels.com consistently show substantially lower room rates during the summer months compared to the winter high season, particularly at upscale desert resorts. The combination of reduced crowds, easier restaurant reservations, quiet pool environments, and dramatic desert sunsets creates a different type of luxury — one centered on space, calm, and relaxation rather than peak-season activity. For travelers willing to embrace the desert heat during the day, summer in Indian Wells offers an appealing blend of affordability, tranquility, and classic California desert charm.