Are CEO's going from “new iPhone” to “no iPhone”?

Hi there, and welcome back to b. Building from business.com. This is the highlight reel of the b. Newsletter — your digest of bite-sized news, thought and brand leadership, and entertainment. For the full-length version of the b., sign up here to get the full edition in your inbox two times a week.

In this issue, we’re diving into the science of productivity with insights from a leading neuroscientist, questioning whether stale Juicy Fruit will count for today's workout, and discovering the women behind Fifth Avenue's fashion revolution. Plus, we’ll learn practical steps for fair pay from the Salary.com CEO.

As always, our meme of the week will bring some much-needed laughs. Let’s dive in!

"Dumb" Phones Are Cool Again — But Can You Run a Business With One?

A year ago, b. reported on the emerging “dumb” phone market, which had a niche following of (former) iPhone addicts seeking a digital detox via low-tech, Y2K-throwback cellular devices. It seemed like a long shot that entrepreneurs could run modern businesses with flip phones, but we speculated it could lead to fewer distractions and greater productivity.

Well, folks, you heard it here first, because dumb phones are “the new boss flex” to “focus on deep work and be fully present in meetings,” according to the Wall Street Journal. (Fax machines, too, apparently.) Even tech CEOs now want to escape from constant pings — and being unreachable on Slack until you’re in front of a laptop or desktop is a kind of “power move.”

If you’re not quite ready to trade in your Pixel or Galaxy, read our guide Can You Run a Business via a Smartphone?

Hyperefficient: Neuroscientist’s New Theory of Peak Productivity

What if there was a way to optimize your brain’s performance without relying on coffee? Dr. Mithu Storoni’s groundbreaking theory explores how to prime your brain for peak productivity by managing different “gears” of mental focus. Find out how you can achieve your most efficient workday without overstimulation.

Gym Gum: Dentists Aren’t Biting on “Jawline Chewing Gum”

Can chewing gum give you a chiseled jawline? Despite claims from some brands targeting young men, dentists say it’s more likely to cause jaw pain than give you model-worthy angles. Learn whether this fitness trend is really worth the chew- with some insights from the American Dental Association.

When Women Ran Fifth Avenue

The 1920s were a turning point in fashion. In her new book, Julie Satow reveals how fashion, and women like Hortense Odlum and Geraldine Stutz were leading the charge. Get inspired by the women and times that changed Fifth Avenue and American fashion forever in the full article.

The Action Item: How to Set Fair Compensation in 3 Steps

Want to eliminate pay gaps and ensure fair compensation in your organization? Salary.com CEO Kent Plunkett offers a simple 3-step guide to set competitive, transparent pay structures that keep employees happy and help you attract top talent. Here’s how to get started.

We Meme Business

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