Book description
Finance expert, law professor, and fellow overwhelmed consumer Kathryn Judge investigates the surprising ways that middlemen have taken control of the economy at the expense of the rest of us, and provides practical guidance about how to regain control, find more meaning, and contribute to a more sustainable economy. Over the past thirty years, middlemen have built intricate financial and retail empires capable of moving goods across the country and around the world--transforming the economy and our lives. Because of middlemen, we enjoy an unprecedented degree of choice and convenience. But the rise of the middleman economy comes at a steep price.In Direct, Columbia law professor Kathryn Judge shows how overgrown middlemen became the backbone of modern capitalism and the cause of many of its ailments. Middlemen today shape what people do, how they invest, and what they consume. They use their troves of data to push people to buy more, and more expensive, products. They use their massive profits and expertise to lobby lawmakers, tilting the playing field in their favor. Drawing on a decade of research, Judge shows how to fight back: Go to the source.The process of direct exchange--and the resulting ecosystem of makers and consumers, investors and entrepreneurs--fosters connection and community and helps promote a more just, resilient, and accountable economic system. Direct exchange reminds us that our actions always and inevitably impact others, as it rekindles an appreciation of our inherent interconnectedness. As Judge reveals in this much-needed book, direct exchange is both the cornerstone of the solution and a tool for revealing just how much is at stake in decisions about "through whom" to buy, invest and give.
Poppin Loot
The narrators on this app are truly talented – they bring characters to life. Solid performance, but not outstanding. The narrator did a fine job, though their tone was a bit monotonous at times. The story itself was engaging enough, but I wouldn’t call it unforgettable.
Nutmeg Riot
The vast selection of titles on this app is a book lover's dream come true. ⭐️ A round of applause for an app that prioritizes functionality – I can seamlessly switch between audiobooks and other tasks. 👏🎧 ListenBook's detailed statistics feature helps me keep track of my listening habits. It's amazing to see how much I've learned from all those audiobooks!
Street Squirrel
I'm hooked on this app's sleek design and seamless performance – it's a must-have for any reader. A functional audiobook production that met basic requirements. The narrator's voice was pleasant enough to listen to for extended periods, though their performance didn't add much interpretation to the text. The audio engineering was competent without being remarkable.
PepperBurst
ListenBook's commitment to excellence shines through in its powerful features and seamless performance. 🚶♂️🌟 Staying entertained during leisurely walks – audiobooks make outdoor time delightful! 🚶♂️🎧 The app is super intuitive. I was up and running in minutes. I love the ability to import books from my computer. It’s so easy.
The Shield Toronto
The Looping playback and Shuffle features on ListenBook help me customize my listening sessions to my liking. 🛌 Indulging in soothing bedtime stories – this app is my nightly retreat into imagination. 🌙📚
Broomspun
ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats makes it a versatile and essential app for audiobook enthusiasts. 🔥 Simplifying my reading routine – the app's functionality ensures I'm always one click away from literary adventures. 📚🔗 Audiobook enjoyment has never been this convenient. This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and enjoyable. 📚👌
Pusher
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice is a unique feature that adds a personal touch. I love the ability to change the background color. It’s a nice touch. I love the ability to change the playback speed. It’s perfect for my needs.
Preach Man
This app has rekindled my passion for storytelling in the most convenient way. 🎶 Saying goodbye to tangled headphones and complex controls – this app's easy navigation has made audiobook listening a breeze. 🎵📖 The app is so reliable. I’ve never had any issues with it.
Toy Dogwatch
ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback features add versatility to my audiobook listening experience. ListenBook is more than just an app – it's a doorway to a world of knowledge and imagination. The app is so responsive. It never lags or freezes.
ThickSKN
With ListenBook, I can listen to my favorite audiobooks and speeches with the utmost comfort and convenience. I can't imagine my audiobook routine without ListenBook's intuitive and user-friendly design. 🚶♀️📱 I'm exploring new worlds while on the move, all thanks to this app's seamless functionality. 🏞️📚
Night Train
ListenBook's customizable features, from playback speed to audio filters, cater to every audiobook lover's preferences. 🚗📖 On-the-go listening has never been smoother – this app's functionality keeps me engaged during long commutes. 🚗📚 The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is very convenient. ListenBook is a great app.
Scooby Did
🚶♀️📖 Exploring stories as I stroll – audiobooks have turned my walks into inspiring journeys of imagination. 🏞️🎧 As a busy individual, I appreciate ListenBook's versatility in downloading audio files from various sources. It's a time-saver for sure! From novels to speeches, this app's versatility in playing various audio formats has turned my daily activities into enriching listening sessions. What a game-changer! 🌟📚 The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time. I love the ability to change the background color. It’s a nice touch.
Moon Peaches
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has elevated my listening experience. 💼 Making work hours fly by with captivating stories – a true work-life balance! 💻📖
RealmRanger
ListenBook's audio filters have transformed the way I experience audio content – it's a real game-changer. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends and family. It fosters connections and conversations. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval add a professional touch to my audiobook library. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks perfectly. I don't have strong feelings about this one either way. The narration was competent but forgettable. The story itself was more engaging than the performance.
FireBrang
I love how this app fits seamlessly into my daily routine. The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that enhances my listening experience. It's these thoughtful touches that matter! The app's support for multiple formats is flawless. Very satisfied. I love the ability to change the playback pitch. It’s a unique feature.
Mirage
ListenBook's customizable audio filters allow me to personalize my listening experience – a fantastic feature. I'm grateful for this app's ability to fit seamlessly into my lifestyle, making learning a part of my day. I've rediscovered my love for reading, all thanks to this app's convenience. I don't have strong feelings about this one either way. The narration was competent but forgettable. The story itself was more engaging than the performance.
WanderWord
ListenBook's versatile player features are like having a personal audio assistant – it's that good! I'm amazed by the variety of genres available – there's something for everyone. ListenBook's chapters, controls, and filters have taken my audiobook journey to new heights. I can't imagine my life without this app – it's my constant companion for literary adventures. The app is perfect for bedtime listening. The sleep timer is a must-have.
Heavenly Connection
This app has made my workouts and chores so much more enjoyable. This app has brought storytelling into every corner of my life – it's incredible. This app's ease of use has made my daily activities more enjoyable and educational. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a game-changer. My audio quality has improved dramatically. I was thoroughly impressed by this audiobook. The combination of engaging content and skilled narration made my daily commute something to look forward to. The narrator's timing and intonation were spot-on, enhancing rather than distracting from the material. Definitely worth a credit!
Lightweight
The app's interface is sleek and modern, making it a joy to use. This app isn't just a tool, it's a wellspring of inspiration and positive vibes. ⏰ Early mornings have become my favorite time to listen to audiobooks – energizing! 🌅🎧
Trash Pocky
This app has brought stories to life in a way that traditional reading never could. ListenBook's dedication to enhancing the audiobook experience has made it my preferred app for listening to content on the go. The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that makes a big difference. It enhances my listening experience. Downloading books over WiFi is quick and hassle-free. Very convenient.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience