New Ventures
After spending a year deep in the bowels of D.C., I’m out of the ‘think’ tank world. It’s time to apply my skillset to more pressing problems than the insular affairs of the failing nation-state.
First step: I’m building an information platform that will prove useful to communities looking to cope with sudden supply-chain uncertainty. I’m writing up a business plan and already receiving great feedback on the core idea. (If you’re interested in any aspect of this project, feel free to drop me a line: shlokv@gmail.com)
Beyond that, I’m looking for interesting stuff to tackle. Very open to booting up new and exciting companies, helping execute projects to embed resiliency (as I’m doing with decentralized security in India), and generally applying my worldview (expressed here, in numerous publications, and at Naxalite Rage) to adapt to a changing world.
On that note, I’ll probably be leaving D.C. soon to get home (Austin) and better prepare for the future. Would love to meet up with anyone in either city who is interested in the intersection of technology, warfare, and resiliency.
Slums!
This story highlights the trend, which traverses the country: Tennessee, California, Florida, Washington, Oregon.
(Note: The emergence of slum economies is a very interesting topic. Think of them as organically growing hubs on the illicit economy network.)
Militarizing Police Operations
Immediately after a rampage in Alabama, military policemen were deployed to the victim city:
Investigations are pending, but look for this trend to accelerate as the environment deterioriates.
Prevalent Gray Markets
Traditionally black or gray (loosely defined as underground) markets are continuing to plod towards full legitimacy:
German prostitution. Connecticut’s adult industry.
The Bear Necessities
Good soundtrack as you get down to the bare necessities (and a great way to get the whole family involved):