While You Were Working SmartBrief
Plus: Spas tapped into science to tailor their offerings | Colleges rethought majors
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June 30, 2025
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This Happened
Colleges rethought majors to meet job market demands
(10'000 Hours/Getty Images)
Why it matters: Colleges and universities are under financial pressure from declining enrollment, increasing tuition and skepticism about the value of a degree, writes John Weigand, a professor emeritus at Miami University. Weigand argues that the traditional college major is too rigid to meet the demands of a rapidly changing job market, and he advocates for a more flexible curriculum that allows students to combine skills across disciplines.
Full Story: The Conversation (6/30) 
Why it matters: Freelance writer Victoria Turk had mixed experiences using AI agents such as Anthropic's Computer Use and OpenAI's Operator to plan a last-minute trip to Bruges, Belgium. Although the AI agents effectively handled tasks such as booking transportation and accommodation, they "struggled to string tasks together and lacked an element of common sense, such as when it tried to book the earliest train home," Turk writes. "But it was refreshing to outsource decision-making to an assistant that could present a few select options, rather than having to scroll through endless listings."
Full Story: Wired (tiered subscription model) (6/29) 
Why it matters: Walmart continues to lead the US corporate landscape this year with $681 billion in revenue, marking the 13th consecutive year it has held the top spot. Amazon was second with $638 billion in revenue. UnitedHealth Group ($400 billion), Apple ($391 billion) and CVS Health ($373 billion) rounded out the top five. 
Full Story: Visual Capitalist (6/30) 
People Do Rad Things
Why it matters: MIT researchers have developed a device that can collect drinking water from air, even in extreme environments such as Death Valley. The device, made from hydrogel and glass, absorbs water vapor at night and condenses it into liquid during the day, producing up to two-thirds of a cup of water daily, and it could yield higher volumes in more humid areas. 
Full Story: Live Science (6/29) 
To Your Health
Why it matters: Spas are increasingly offering science-based wellness treatments aimed at longevity and optimal health, a trend driven by people who seek credible, evidence-based care. Treatments such as biometric tests, stem cell therapies and vitamin IVs are now common at high-end resorts. Although some medical professionals view this as a positive shift, others express skepticism about the effectiveness of such treatments.
Full Story: Robb Report (6/26) 
Featured Content
Sponsored Content from Netline
The Dagger Ball
Why it matters: Nike released a Caitlin Clark version of the Kobe V Protro sneaker Monday, which sold out online within minutes. The sneakers, retailing for $190, feature colors from Clark's WNBA team, the Indiana Fever, and have appeared on resale markets for more than $350. It isn't known how many pairs were part of the initial offering from Nike, or when they'll be available again.
Full Story: NBC News (6/30) 
Your Future
Happy Hour Fun
Why it matters: The Czech Republic is employing "beer diplomacy" to elevate the international profile of its lagers. The initiative, which involves inviting brewers from countries including the US, Canada and Australia to showcase the richness of Czech beer culture and experience it firsthand. The efforts not only promote Czech-style lagers but also foster a deeper appreciation for the country's brewing traditions. And, it's had an effect on the bottom line: The initiative has boosted sales of specialty beer taps abroad.
Full Story: BBC (6/29) 
ICYMI
WYWW Playlist
Check out other songs in our WYWW playlist.
Enjoy the View
Somewhere over Henderson, Nev.
Somewhere over Henderson, Nev.
(Doug Harris)
I took this photo on my way back from a conference in Las Vegas a few weeks ago. And with that, my supply of Enjoy the View photos has been exhausted. Got any you want to share? Send them my way!
About the Editors
Doug Harris
Doug Harris
I plucked that Franz Ferdinand ditty from my Spotify Discover Weekly playlist. I've used the app for awhile now but somehow missed that function. I'll definitely check it out going forward, seeing as I rotate many of the same bands when I listen to music. Franz Ferdinand isn't new to me, but I'm glad I was reminded about them. They're a fun listen.

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