August 2026 Friday’s e-links: More Than the Facts

Every once in a while, (and sometimes each day) I listen to a great podcast, enjoy an article, or see a good video that I want to share with you. These are my e-links.

Last updated 8/07/26

During his varied tenure at Microsoft, Steve Ballmer’s responsibilities ranged from business manager to president and CEO. Also, in 2014, he bought the LA Clippers for $2 billion.

But most crucially for us,  he has done an impressive job with his USA Facts website. Self-described as a “data guy” (and basketball fanatic) he enlivens everyday facts. The website’s brief videos cover topics that range from poverty and immigration to the Federal Reserve and the national debt, while in just 7 minutes, we can learn the basics of oil prices. Although Ballmer is the videos’ explainer, the graphics make each one more than sufficiently interesting.  Less brief, in a 107-page written report, he also gives us a factual snapshot of the United States in 2025.

Sort of like popcorn, once you start looking at the website, you cannot stop. Its videos and written reports are a handy resource.