How A Charleston Agency Is Redefining Digital Marketing With Performance-Driven Results

US Business News Staff on April 24, 2025

By: Jay Feldman

As global digital marketing spend surpasses $1 trillion in 2025, brands aren’t just looking for agencies—they’re searching for strategic partners who can demonstrate measurable impact. Custom Digital Solutions (CDS), headquartered in Charleston, SC, is emerging as that partner. Known for its no-fluff, results-first approach, CDS works with growth-focused brands to cut through the noise and scale smarter.

Founded by Audrey Bakhach, CDS was born out of a market gap shared by many businesses: marketing agencies that often set unrealistic expectations and underdeliver. Bakhach envisioned something different—an agency built on clarity, performance, and deep accountability. That vision has helped position CDS as one of the fastest-growing digital marketing agencies in the Southeast.

The Rise of Custom Digital Solutions

Audrey Bakhach’s journey to founding CDS wasn’t fueled by trends—it was driven by a deep understanding of what businesses genuinely require. Armed with years of performance marketing experience, she saw a clear gap: too many agencies focused on aesthetics or awards, rather than outcomes.

“Too often, marketing becomes a black box,” says Bakhach. “We’re here to fix that.”

Supported by a lean, expert team and a playbook grounded in transparency and ROI, CDS has steadily built a reputation for delivering measurable impact. The agency is now trusted by Fortune 500 companies and local leaders alike, including names like Lexitas Legal and BN3TH.

Performance-Driven Marketing: The CDS Approach

At CDS, performance marketing isn’t a buzzword—it’s the foundation. The agency crafts custom strategies that combine advanced SEO, precision-targeted paid media, and ongoing data optimization. Each decision is rooted in metrics that matter, and campaigns are designed to scale efficiently across channels.

Whether it’s driving visibility through technical SEO or capturing high-intent leads via paid search, the team is focused on results and built to move fast.

“We don’t just report on performance; we actively optimize for it,” says Bakhach.

Success Stories and Client Roster

The numbers highlight their impact. CDS helped a Lexitas Legal brand achieve a 150% increase in organic traffic in under six months, while BN3TH saw a 200%+ return on ad spend through a strategic overhaul of their paid search campaigns.

More than stats, these wins reflect the agency’s core principle: make marketing measurable, meaningful, and aligned with business growth.

Rooted in Charleston, Scaling Nationally

Despite its national reach, CDS remains deeply connected to Charleston. The agency actively supports local businesses and sees its hometown not just as a headquarters, but a testing ground for innovation.

“Charleston is where our ideas come to life first,” says Bakhach. “We use what works here to help brands succeed everywhere.”

Company Culture and Leadership

Led by a high-performance, high-integrity team, CDS fosters a culture of ownership, collaboration, and continual learning. There are no handoffs or hollow roles—every strategist is empowered to lead and innovate.

The agency is structured to stay nimble, think critically, and respond to real-time results with agility.

The Future of Digital Marketing with CDS

As digital marketing barrels toward an AI-driven, privacy-focused future, CDS is exploring approaches that balance innovation with responsibility. While many agencies are still grappling with the implications of third-party cookie deprecation and increasing privacy regulations, CDS has developed proprietary methodologies that respect user privacy while maintaining powerful targeting capabilities.

“The agencies that will thrive in the next decade aren’t the ones with the flashiest presentations—they’re the ones who can navigate increasing complexity while still delivering measurable results,” Bakhach observes.

Current projects in development include machine learning algorithms that help identify high-value prospects with greater accuracy and content strategies that adapt in real-time based on user behavior patterns. These innovations aren’t pursued for their own sake but for their potential to drive stronger client outcomes.

Summary

In an industry often characterized by overpromising and inconsistent results, Custom Digital Solutions stands apart as a leader in accountability and performance. By combining data-driven strategies with genuine client partnership, this Charleston digital marketing agency has helped redefine what businesses should expect from their marketing investments.

For brands tired of pouring money into digital efforts with unclear returns, CDS offers something refreshingly different: marketing that delivers, backed by numbers that matter. As digital channels grow increasingly complex, having a partner who can navigate them with both creativity and analytical rigor becomes not just valuable but essential.

As Bakhach and her team continue pushing boundaries and setting new standards, one thing remains constant—their unwavering focus on delivering results that help transform marketing from an expense into a growth engine.

To discover how Custom Digital Solutions can elevate your brand’s digital presence, visit

https://customdigitalsolutions.co.

Published by Mark V.

How Advertisers Catch Fake Clicks and Bot Traffic

US Business News Staff 2 on April 24, 2025

In the digital advertising space, fake clicks and bot traffic can present challenges for advertisers aiming to achieve accurate campaign results. These issues not only lead to wasted advertising budgets but can also skew performance metrics, making it harder to assess the true effectiveness of marketing efforts. Recognizing these challenges, advertisers use various methods to identify and manage fraudulent traffic. Understanding how fake clicks and bot traffic are detected can shed light on the ongoing efforts to maintain the integrity of online advertising.

Understanding Fake Clicks and Bot Traffic

Before delving into detection methods, it’s helpful to clarify what fake clicks and bot traffic are, and how they can impact digital advertising efforts.

Fake clicks: These are clicks on ads that occur without genuine user intent. The clicks may be generated by fraudulent actors or automated bots programmed to interact with ads, artificially inflating performance metrics.
Bot traffic: This refers to web visits or clicks made by automated programs, rather than real users. Bots can mimic human behavior by navigating websites, clicking on ads, and interacting with content, but they do not lead to real engagement or conversions. Bot traffic, particularly when it targets ads, distorts metrics like click-through rates (CTR) and misrepresents the effectiveness of an advertising campaign.

Both types of fraudulent activities can significantly affect how advertisers interpret data and allocate marketing resources. Consequently, identifying and addressing these forms of fraud is essential to maintaining accurate reporting and effective decision-making.

Why Is It Important to Detect Fake Clicks and Bot Traffic?

Detecting fake clicks and bot traffic is vital for several reasons:

Financial implications: Advertisers often pay for clicks or impressions, so when bots or fraudulent clicks skew the results, they risk wasting marketing budgets on activity that doesn’t contribute to actual business goals. This can be particularly concerning for advertisers with limited resources.
Campaign optimization: Accurate performance data is crucial for optimizing campaigns. If bots generate a significant portion of clicks, it becomes difficult to assess the true return on investment (ROI), making it challenging to refine strategies based on real consumer behavior.
Brand reputation: Poor traffic quality can have an impact on an advertiser’s reputation. If fraud is detected, there may be concerns over the transparency of the advertising platform or the integrity of the traffic being served.

Given these concerns, detecting and mitigating the effects of bot traffic and fake clicks is essential for advertisers looking to protect both their budget and their campaign results.

How Advertisers Detect Fake Clicks and Bot Traffic

Advertisers employ a variety of strategies to identify fake clicks and bot traffic. These methods range from technical tools and software to data analysis techniques, all designed to assess the quality of traffic and uncover fraudulent activity.

1. Analyzing Traffic Behavior

Advertisers often begin by examining user behavior patterns. There are several indicators that may suggest the presence of bot traffic or fake clicks:

High volume with low engagement: A significant increase in clicks, accompanied by minimal engagement (such as rapid bounce rates or low time spent on site), may signal bot activity. Bots typically click on ads but don’t engage further, often leaving the site shortly after the click.
Unusual geographic patterns: Traffic from regions that are not relevant to the target market, or from locations that do not align with a brand’s customer base, can suggest fraudulent activity. If an e-commerce site targeting a specific country suddenly sees high levels of traffic from unrelated regions, it may warrant investigation.
Excessive clicking frequency: Bots tend to click ads at a much faster rate than human users. A pattern of repetitive clicks within a short time frame could indicate automated activity, especially if the clicks are coming from the same IP address or device.
Inconsistent device usage: Bots often use specific devices or browsers that might stand out in comparison to standard user behavior. A noticeable increase in visits from a particular device or browser configuration could indicate non-human traffic.

These patterns can be identified using analytics tools, helping advertisers determine when traffic is likely to be fake or bot-driven.

2. Using Bot Detection Software

To manage fraud detection, many advertisers rely on bot detection software that helps identify and filter out suspicious traffic. These software solutions use various techniques to analyze incoming traffic for signs of automated activity:

Behavioral analysis: Bot detection software examines patterns of interaction with the website. This includes assessing the speed of page loads, the way the user navigates through the site, and the timing between actions. Bots typically follow unnatural patterns, such as very fast navigation through pages or immediate clicks on ads after page loads.
CAPTCHA and challenge-response tests: These tests, which require users to prove they are human, are commonly used to identify and block bots. Common CAPTCHA tests include identifying distorted text, solving puzzles, or selecting images that meet specific criteria (e.g., identifying all pictures with street signs).
IP tracking: Bot detection tools often track the IP addresses of users to identify suspicious patterns, such as repeated clicks from the same IP address or traffic originating from known proxy networks used by bots to hide their true identity.
Device fingerprinting: This technique captures unique details about a user’s device, such as its operating system, browser type, and screen resolution. By analyzing these details, advertisers can detect bots that are trying to mask their identity by changing certain device attributes.

3. Click Fraud Detection Services

Some third-party services specialize in identifying and blocking fraudulent clicks. These services provide in-depth analysis to help advertisers spot fake activity and prevent it from affecting their campaigns. Some common features of these services include:

Pattern recognition: Click fraud detection services examine trends across various ad campaigns. By comparing click patterns, the software can identify unusual behaviors, such as clicks from the same device or IP address within a short time frame, or suspiciously high click volumes coming from particular sources.
Reputation-based filtering: Some services maintain databases of known fraudulent sources, such as click farms or proxies. By referencing this data, they can block traffic that is recognized as fraudulent, reducing the likelihood of wasted clicks.
Conversion tracking mismatch: These services compare the number of clicks with conversion rates. If a large number of clicks are followed by very few or no conversions, it may suggest that the traffic is of low quality or driven by bots. Click fraud services can flag these discrepancies for further investigation.

4. Leveraging AI and Machine Learning

As bot behavior continues to evolve, some advertisers are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies to detect fraudulent activity. These tools can analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns that would be difficult for humans to recognize. AI and machine learning systems are particularly useful in detecting complex, rapidly changing bot behaviors.

These technologies can adapt and learn from new data, becoming more effective over time at distinguishing between legitimate user interactions and fraudulent activity. AI-based systems can analyze user behavior in real time, flagging suspicious activities as they occur and minimizing the impact of fraud on campaigns.

5. Detailed Reporting and Transparency

Transparency is essential for detecting fraud and improving ad campaigns. Many digital advertising platforms offer detailed reporting tools that allow advertisers to monitor the quality of their traffic. These tools often provide metrics that break down sources of traffic, including impressions, clicks, and conversions.

By analyzing these reports, advertisers can spot irregularities in the data that might suggest bot traffic or fake clicks. They can then take steps to block fraudulent sources, adjust their targeting parameters, or refine their campaigns based on more reliable data.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite advancements in fraud detection, advertisers continue to face challenges in fully eliminating fake clicks and bot traffic. The increasing sophistication of bots and the growing variety of tactics used to bypass detection make it difficult to guarantee complete protection. Advertisers must balance the need for accurate, high-quality traffic with the realities of bot activity, which is continually evolving.

Additionally, the cost of implementing fraud detection tools and monitoring systems can be substantial, particularly for smaller businesses with limited marketing budgets. As a result, many advertisers focus on minimizing fraud to the best of their ability rather than attempting to eliminate it entirely.

Moving Forward

As the digital advertising landscape continues to evolve, it’s likely that advertisers will continue refining their methods for detecting fake clicks and bot traffic. With more advanced technologies and smarter detection systems, the industry may be able to more effectively manage fraud, offering advertisers a clearer picture of their campaigns’ true performance. By combining various detection methods with an ongoing commitment to transparency, advertisers can strive to ensure their resources are being used in the most efficient way possible.

Attorney Henry E. Reaves III, Esq. Facilitates Inspiring Discussion at Man Up Fellowship Event Supporting Black Male Educators

US Business News Staff on April 24, 2025

By: Lennard James

The atmosphere was energized and hopeful at the recent Man Up Fellowship event held at the Memphis Renasant Convention Center, where a thought-provoking and solutions-oriented panel discussion took center stage, moderated by Attorney Henry E. Reaves III, Esq. Known for his contributions in both the legal and community sectors, Reaves brought his signature blend of professionalism, purpose, and passion to a conversation focused on reshaping the future of education: increasing the presence of Black male educators in America’s classrooms.

The Man Up Teacher Fellowship is a five-year program aimed at recruiting, training, and placing men of color into impactful roles within schools. With a model built on mentorship, certification, and leadership development, Man Up helps reduce traditional barriers by offering licensure, a Master’s in Education, and Educational Leadership certification—all at no cost to its fellows. The goal is not only to build a workforce of teachers but also to cultivate generational change agents who can positively influence students both inside and outside the classroom.

As moderator, Attorney Reaves guided a compelling panel discussion that included prominent voices in education and youth development, such as Brian Harris from City of Memphis Youth Services, Founder & CEO Dr. Patrick Washington, and other key stakeholders actively supporting educational equity. Their collective presence highlighted the importance of the moment—and the movement.

Reaves opened the discussion by acknowledging the dedication and resilience of the men in the room, many of whom are fellows or alumni of the Man Up program. “Initiatives like this go beyond just teaching,” Reaves said. “They represent a shift in how we approach leadership, mentorship, and excellence in education for young men of color.”

The dialogue addressed key issues facing Black male educators today, including a significant decline in funding, which has dropped from $1.4 million to $275,000, potentially limiting opportunities for many aspiring fellows. Reaves emphasized the potential consequences of this reduction, encouraging leaders and potential donors to consider the far-reaching effects programs like Man Up can have on students and communities.

Throughout the panel, Reaves skillfully integrated testimony, facts, and actionable insights, all while keeping the focus on the students who stand to benefit from greater representation in education. “Research suggests that when young boys of color see educators who look like them—individuals who listen, understand, and uplift—it can have a profound effect,” he said.

Panelist Brian Harris reinforced those sentiments, sharing how City of Memphis Youth Services has observed positive outcomes from programs that place Black male educators in front of youth. “There’s growing evidence that role models who’ve overcome challenges can inspire students to believe in themselves more deeply,” Harris said.

Dr. Patrick Washington added valuable perspective on educational policy and program design, noting the need for sustained community partnerships and ongoing professional development for fellows.

The event featured emotional testimonies from fellows, who shared how the Man Up Fellowship played a key role in shaping their lives. Some spoke about breaking cycles of poverty, others about being the first in their family to earn a graduate degree—each underscoring the power of mentorship, exposure, and community.

Attorney Henry E. Reaves III, Esq. listened intently and affirmed their journeys. “These stories illustrate what’s possible when we invest in people, not just policies,” he said.

As moderator, Reaves also highlighted the importance of providing students with diverse role models, emphasizing that Black male educators serve not only as teachers but as mentors, leaders, and examples of achievement.

In closing, Attorney Henry E. Reaves III, Esq., encouraged continued effort: “Let’s keep working to expose, empower, and elevate. Let’s ensure this progress extends beyond today.”

The Man Up Fellowship stands as an example of potential systemic change in education. With the guidance of figures like Attorney Henry E. Reaves III, Esq., and the support of dedicated partners like Brian Harris, Founder & CEO Dr. Patrick Washington, and others, the movement is growing—and creating meaningful change one classroom, one student, and one fellow at a time. For more information or to contribute to Man UP! Visit https://manupteach.org

Published by Jeremy S.

Faith, Health, and Growth: Mariusz Smorczewski’s Journey

US Business News Staff on April 24, 2025

Before entering Network Marketing, Mariusz Smorczewski was no stranger to hard work. He started in factories and later worked in union construction, restoring high-rise buildings in Illinois. Though the pay was decent, the lifestyle left him exhausted. Running his own transportation company gave him some control, but the long hours and constant pressure made personal freedom feel out of reach.

During this period, friends introduced him to Network Marketing. Curious but inexperienced, he joined a company that offered no real training or guidance. Left to navigate on his own, he turned to online resources, but many strategies felt unclear or ineffective. Like many beginners, he faced rejection and self-doubt—but stayed committed to finding a better path toward meaningful work and personal growth.

Today, Mariusz shares his journey and insights across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, where he connects with others exploring similar paths. He also provides educational resources through Nutrition Changes Lives, reflecting his belief that health education and personal development go hand in hand.

Finding Structure and a System That Worked

Years of effort eventually led Mariusz to a different kind of opportunity—one that focused on community, education, and values. Over time, he partnered with a wellness company that aligned with his priorities and offered a structured and supportive environment where personal and business growth became possible.

He learned that one of the most effective ways to connect with people was through storytelling. By sharing his own experience—the wins and the challenges—he found his voice and started to build trust. He also began following a Daily Method of Operation, or DMO, a simple routine that kept him consistent even when motivation dipped.

Another key shift came when he stopped holding back about what he was doing. For a while, Mariusz hesitated to talk about his business out of fear of judgment. But eventually, he embraced the idea that sharing something meaningful doesn’t have to be aggressive—it can be respectful, professional, and honest.

Using Social Media with Purpose

Social media became a major tool for growth, but not in the way many people use it. Mariusz stopped scrolling aimlessly and instead focused on connecting with others in a way that felt natural and supportive. His time online shifted from distraction to intention—starting real conversations, offering value, and making space for others to ask questions.

He also let go of the idea that success is just about being in the right place at the right time. Instead, he committed to learning actual skills—like how to follow up with people, how to speak with clarity, and how to explain what he does without applying pressure.

Eventually, he found mentors who helped him grow, and he became part of a team culture that prioritized support over competition. The more he leaned into community, the more confident and clear he became—not just in his business mindset, but in the way he connected with others.

Core Values That Shape the Journey

Mariusz credits his growth to more than just business techniques. His faith plays a central role in every decision he makes. Inspired by a verse from Matthew 6:33, he believes in placing purpose and integrity above profit. This value shows up in how he talks to people, how he listens, and how he teaches others to build with intention.

He also believes that strong relationships come before any sale. His goal isn’t to pitch a product—it’s to understand what someone truly needs. By keeping things simple and focusing on real conversations, he creates an environment where others feel safe to explore new opportunities without pressure.

Education also plays a big part in his approach. In both health and business, Mariusz emphasizes informed decision-making. He encourages others to learn, ask questions, and take ownership of their choices—whether it’s about nutrition, wellness, or exploring a new professional path.

Impact Beyond the Numbers

For Mariusz, the most meaningful wins aren’t found in a bank statement. He measures success through the messages he receives—notes from people who say they feel better, who have more energy, or who finally understand their health better after taking a test. He also values the stories of new business partners who feel hopeful again—especially those who didn’t think they had the skills or experience to try something new.

He sees his work as part of a broader mission: helping others live with more balance, better health, and greater freedom. His goal is not to convince, but to lead by example—offering a path that others can walk at their own pace.

Creating Space for Family, Growth, and Faith

Today, Mariusz continues to grow his business while making space for what matters most. Time with his wife, Ewa, and their dog, Carmel, remains a priority. The freedom to work on his own terms allows him to be present at home while still building something meaningful for the future.

He often reminds others that getting started doesn’t require expertise—just a willingness to learn and a system to follow. For those feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin, he offers a reminder from his own journey: progress is possible, even when the path isn’t perfect.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational and storytelling purposes only. It reflects the personal journey and views of Mariusz Smorczewski. Individual results may vary, and nothing shared guarantees future health, business, or financial outcomes. The linked site, Nutrition Changes Lives, includes wellness and supplement content for educational use. Readers are encouraged to consult qualified professionals before making decisions related to health or business. This article may contain forward-looking statements that are not guarantees of future performance.

Published by Jeremy S.

How Childcare Costs Are Reshaping Career Planning And Family Growth

US Business News Staff 2 on April 24, 2025

The rising cost of childcare has become a central factor in how many families plan their work lives. In households where both adults work, the financial return of a second income may now be weighed against the expense of daily care. When the costs approach or exceed one partner’s earnings, stepping back from paid employment can feel like the more practical option, at least temporarily.

This shift is not necessarily about leaving the workforce altogether. Some choose to reduce hours, pursue freelance or contract roles, or switch to jobs with remote flexibility. In each case, the calculation often revolves around how to balance time, income, and care in a way that feels sustainable.

How Does The Cost Of Care Influence Decisions About Family Size?

Childcare expenses are influencing decisions around expanding families. Where earlier generations may have expected to raise multiple children, today’s parents are often reevaluating those expectations in light of financial realities.

Some express hesitation about adding a second or third child due to the cumulative costs of care during the early years. Even when long-term family goals include more children, short-term economic pressures can reshape timing or alter plans altogether. These considerations can be particularly significant in regions where care options are limited or highly competitive.

What Adjustments Are Working Parents Making To Manage Expenses?

To manage childcare costs, some parents shift their professional lives in ways that align more closely with caregiving responsibilities. This might involve changing jobs to secure more flexible hours or looking for roles that offer family-oriented benefits. Others pursue career paths that allow them to work from home, even if it means taking on positions outside their primary field.

In some cases, one parent pauses their career altogether during the preschool years. This decision is rarely made lightly. It often reflects both the financial burden of care and the desire to provide consistent support at home, especially when no affordable alternatives are available.

Are Dual-Income Households Facing A Different Kind Of Trade-Off?

In two-income families, the decision to continue working while paying for childcare can involve complex trade-offs. Some calculate the difference between care costs and one partner’s take-home pay, while also weighing the long-term impact of stepping out of the workforce.

When both adults have demanding jobs, scheduling logistics can also play a role. Juggling daycare pickup times, sick days, and school transitions may add strain, especially without nearby support. In these situations, couples often divide responsibilities in ways that reflect earning potential, job flexibility, and individual capacity—though not always with equal outcomes.

How Does Access To Childcare Vary By Region And Community?

Access to care is uneven across regions, contributing to very different experiences among families. Urban areas may offer a broader range of daycare centers or early education programs, but those options often come with high price tags and long waitlists. In contrast, rural areas might have fewer facilities, making availability the greater challenge.

Public subsidies and state-supported programs vary significantly as well. Where support exists, families may be able to maintain their work schedules without sacrificing financial stability. Where it doesn’t, parents often rely on informal arrangements or adjust their employment to fill the gap.

What Impact Do Childcare Costs Have On Women’s Careers Specifically?

While families across all structures feel the effect of childcare expenses, women often face more direct consequences when navigating career choices. In many households, women take on the larger share of caregiving, particularly when care becomes too expensive to outsource.

This shift can delay promotions, reduce earning potential, or lead to gaps in employment history. These effects often compound over time, shaping future financial independence, retirement savings, and professional advancement. Gender equity conversations increasingly include childcare as a structural issue—not just a personal one.

Are Younger Adults Delaying Parenthood For Financial Reasons?

Decisions about when to start a family are often shaped by more than just personal readiness. Economic considerations now weigh heavily in the process, and the cost of care plays a significant role. Some delay parenthood while working to build financial stability, establish careers, or pay down debt.

Even for those who feel emotionally prepared to raise children, concerns about day-to-day affordability can push timelines back. These delays are not always permanent, but they reflect a cautious approach that prioritizes planning and adaptability over fixed expectations.

What Role Do Employers Play In Supporting Working Parents?

Some workplaces are beginning to acknowledge the financial strain childcare places on employees. A few offer benefits such as dependent care flexible spending accounts, stipends, or partnerships with local centers. Others support flexibility through remote or hybrid roles, recognizing that reducing commute time or rigid hours can help parents manage daily care more effectively.

Still, access to these accommodations varies widely across sectors. While larger companies may have the resources to implement childcare support, smaller organizations may struggle to do the same. For many workers, supportive leadership and team culture make a meaningful difference, even when formal programs are limited.

How Are Families Adapting Outside Of Traditional Childcare Models?

In response to cost and availability challenges, some families pursue alternatives to conventional daycare. These might include rotating care schedules with neighbors, splitting shifts between partners, or relying on informal arrangements with extended relatives. In some areas, parents collaborate to form cooperative models where care is shared among a small group.

While these approaches can reduce expenses, they also require trust, organization, and flexibility. They often work best when supported by strong community ties and clear communication between participants. Without those elements, the arrangements can become difficult to sustain over time.

Why Is The Conversation About Childcare Costs Expanding Beyond Parents?

Childcare is increasingly being discussed as an economic issue, not just a personal one. When families adjust their work lives in response to unaffordable care, there are broader effects on labor markets, workforce participation, and regional economic growth.

These shifts also influence population trends, with long-term implications for education systems, housing demand, and public services. As a result, conversations about affordable care are appearing in policy spaces, labor discussions, and community planning.

Recognizing the role that care plays in shaping both private and public life allows for more nuanced approaches—ones that move beyond individual budgeting and toward shared solutions.