May Insights – Duolingo Goes AI-First, “Ghost Store” Retail Scams Grow, and Working With Purpose and Impact
Happy May, friends.
The pace of change in tech and leadership doesn’t seem to be slowing down and this month’s stories reflect just how complex that landscape is becoming.
Duolingo has made headlines with its decision to go all-in on AI, letting go of its contract translators in the process. Meanwhile, a new wave of online retail scams is proving just how sophisticated bad actors have become. Even those of us who work in cybersecurity aren’t immune.
Let’s dive in!
Michael
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Cybersecurity / Technology Articles
“Ghost stores” are the new frontier in online retail scams. These are fully designed e-commerce websites that appear legitimate, complete with product pages, customer service chat, and even fake reviews. But they don’t actually sell or ship anything. The goal is to take your money and disappear. These scams are becoming so polished that even I, a cybersecurity professional, was recently duped by one. If it can happen to me, it can happen to anyone. Be cautious, especially when shopping with unfamiliar retailers online.
‘Ghost stores’: the online retailers promoting closing-down sales for physical shops that don’t exist
Duolingo is making a drastic shift toward an AI-first strategy, letting go of its contract translators in the process. It’s a clear sign of how fast generative AI is moving into core business functions, even in areas that have previously relied on human skills. While it’s hard to ignore the efficiency gains, there’s something uneasy about replacing all human input in something as personal as language. Time will tell whether this improves the user experience or just flattens it.
Duolingo Adopts ‘AI-First’ Strategy, Will Eliminate All Contract Workers
Leadership & Personal Growth
This article stood out because it highlights something simple yet powerful: the best leaders don’t just manage work, they connect it to meaning. The question “Who is this for?” helps teams move beyond tasks and into purpose. At 365, we’ve always tried to make sure our people feel like they’re part of something bigger, and this really reinforces why that matters. A great reminder that clarity and connection go hand in hand.
This One Question Leaders Ask Makes Work Matter More
As global trade policies shift and tariffs resurface, leaders are once again being challenged to think strategically about supply chains, risk, and resilience. This McKinsey article unpacks the broader economic impact, but what stood out to me was the leadership takeaway: in a fragmented world, the ability to make informed, forward-looking decisions is more critical than ever.
Tariffs and global trade: The economic impact on business
Partner Spotlight – 4L Communications
This month, we’re highlighting 4L Communications. If your organization manages corporate mobile devices or a fleet of vehicles, their team brings real value through tailored mobility solutions and TELUS Fleet Complete: a platform that helps businesses track, manage, and optimize their mobile workforce. From corporate cellular account management to GPS fleet tracking, they make it simple and scalable. Stephen Koop leads their B2B team and brings deep expertise and a true partnership mindset. With 23 locations across the Canadian Prairies, 4L is a great option if you’re looking to streamline your operations or get better visibility into your mobile assets.
4L Communications
Upcoming Events
May 16 – May Membership Luncheon
May 20 – Trump’s Tariff Tsunami: Global and North American Trade Waves
May 23 – A Conversation with David Frum