WIB Entertainment Issue

Meet Powerful Men and Women Who Give Insight and Show Their Creativity

TODD DULANEY THE MAN WHO UNDERSTANDS THE POWER OF A SONG

CONTENTS DECEMBER 2021 04 07 10 13 18 20 24 26 29 31 34 36 39 43 46 48 50 52

Todd Dulaney Kat Gottlieb Pamela Varkony Melissa Face Keeyen Martin Naystar Asia Mion Valerie Dyer Original Soul Dorian Baham Dr. Tara Turner Boy Wonda James C. Birdsong, Jr. Heather Marianna Max Justus Delon Om Julie Morgenstern ABRA in Miami

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Founder – Cece Hymes

W.I.B (Where It Begins) is an Independent agency with the aim to always be innovated in each approach taken to projects and making sure excellence is given in a projects execution when it comes to media marketing, branding, networking and management.

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Founded by the well experienced and ever growing force; D.C native - Cece Hymes, the most important and integral aspect of W.I.B is that branding for both Creatives and Businesses is taken to the next level with each and every project undertaken.

We’ve continued to represent a very diverse and well acclaimed roster of emerging talents in the entertainment, and businesses!

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With a determined persistence for continued excellence, our Founder – Cece Hymes, with a college Degree in Business Management, has also worked within radio and with many companies such as: RDE Entertainment, H.I.G.H Entertainment and Caribbean Gospel Records Ltd.,

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"Impact is impact whether it's acknowledged or not. "

TODD DULANEY

Q. What made you decide to pursue your career in the music industry?

A. Once I realized that I could have a massive impact in a positive direction through music, I was sold. I LOVE being able to lift people’s spirits and encourage the world through song.

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. My name is Todd Dulaney, I’m a family man first, husband and father of 5. I’d also like to believe that I’m a man sent for the people someone that loves to see others win.

Q. Let’s talk about “Dulaneyland Music” & how it got started?

A. DulaneyLand Music is my response to feeling like opportunities in the music industry aren’t always fair for everyone. I wanted to even the playing field and give everyone a chance to create music on a level that many only dreamed of until now. So now we have this unique community of creatives that have a place to go when they want their music created right along with everything else that someone would ever need to be successful in this ever-changing music industry.

That’s DulaneyLand Music.

Q. Who are some people that influenced you in your career?

A. I’ve been very vocal about Smokie Norful’s influence in my life and I’m extremely grateful for him. But someone else that really gave me the ingredient that carry’s me forward to this day is Dr. Bill Winston. The teachings of faith that I received from him, propelled to where I am today.

Q. How was your experience playing baseball?

A. Playing baseball at the professional level adds a grit, grind and focus that not many have. It really taught me how to compete on a day-to-day basis along with carrying myself as a professional.

I was really young while playing pro ball, so I made mistakes in my private life that I ended up learning from for my now season.

Q. Tell us an accomplishment you see yourself achieving in the next 3 years?

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Q. What is the most surprising fact you’ve learned about yourself this year?

A. The surprising fact that I learned about myself this year is that I have a problem sitting still. If I’m not creating, building, or trying to achieve something, I feel worthless.

So being stuck in the house as a part of a pandemic had me launching businesses, having babies, and doing all kind of stuff!

Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects?

A. I am planning to tour in 2022.

I love the thought of revivals all throughout the land. Nights where we can travel and ignite people’s faith in God especially in desperate times like these. And I’ll more than likely record another project later next year as well. So, we’ll make that one massive live recording event.

A. I believe in 3 years my team and I will have built possibly one of the most powerful music production empires the world has ever seen. I believe I’ll own much land, provide employment for at least a thousand people, and be able to pay for whatever God asks me to do! That’s my 3-year plan.

Q. What is some of the hardships you went through in your career?

A. Some of the hardships I went through in my music career stem from not understanding that the music industry is a game to be played… for a while I tried to measure myself and my impact based off of rather or not the music industry acknowledged my contributions. I quickly realized that was a huge mistake. Impact is

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impact whether it’s acknowledged or not. The music industry is built to deceive young creatives into chasing what they tell you to chase as opposed to just impacting the world!

Q. Tell the readers where they can follow you?

A. I can be followed at https://www.instagram.com/ todddulaney1/ and https:// www.instagram.com/ dulaneylandmusic/ on Instagram and at https://www.facebook.com/ ToddDulaneyLand.

"I use creativity to inspire others to manifest their most authentic lives. "

KAT GOTTLIEB

abstract psychological and spiritual concepts into creative, easy-to-understand methods to manifest one’s best version of life.

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. Thanks for this opportunity to share what I am passionate about! I am an author and artist whose purpose is to inspire others to discover their most authentic, joyful, and soul-filled existence.

I do this through sharing life experiences and creative storytelling.

Q. How was your experience being in the “Be You” book?

A. The “Chicken Soup for the Soul” is one of the most recognizable anthology book series. It was such an honor to be published by them! My story, “Finding My Unicorn” was about the trial and errors of dating as an adult, learning how to identify my own unique qualities and finding a match to them. I found

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my soulmate by first learning to BE the kind of person I wanted to find.

Q. Let’s talk about some of your children’s Illustration and the motivation behind them?

A. My art style is playful, so it naturally applies to children’s illustration. I focus on pediatric mental health issues. My goal is to help kids understand their emotions in a healthy, unconditional love kind-of-way.

Q. How does your art inspire others?

A. Adults love playful art and need creative stories too! I connect the same messages for adults and kids alike because we all need help embracing our most authentic life.

I am especially keen on distilling

Q. Can you tell us a little about your planner “Manifest your best everyday”?

A. This planner is the culmination of a lifetime of lessons and blessings. During my insanely busy years as a self-employed, single mother of three, I learned to prioritize my schedule and harness my mindset to manifest success and abundance by embracing the “laws of attraction,” the same principles I used to find my soulmate. Now, I’ve taken these valuable lessons and developed a unique planner called “Manifest Your Best Everyday.” It is a planner/ journal fusion that connects left brain activities of a planner with the right brain, emotional aspect of journaling.

Manifesting goals becomes easier when we connect both sides in a meaningful, enjoyable process. With my planner, you experience success every single day… imagine what that will feel like!

Q. Where do you see your career in the next 5 years?

A. I will be producing my life’s work. After years as a professional artist, entrepreneur, and business owner, I have just now reached the most satisfying point in my career. I have manifested a wonderfully unique, abundant life but like most of us, I had to walk through some darkness to get here. I will continue to share what I’ve learned in more writing and artistic projects, to help others discover their best version of themselves.

Q. Where do you get your inspiration from?

A. I draw inspiration from just about everything; the good, bad and everything inbetween. My art and writing are in response to the smallest details of life and biggest concepts of spirit. There are no shortage of ideas and connecting points. But like many empathic artists, sometimes messages and topics come “through” me from somewhere else. I’ve learned to allow it to flow even if it doesn’t quite make sense. It’s really cool when I post a piece on Instagram, and someone reaches out to say it spoke directly to them because maybe it was meant to do just that. That’s the magical part of artistic inspiration.

Q. Are there any other hobbies you have?

A. Actually, my work is more enjoyable than any hobby I have tried! And my husband and I enjoy our six adult children, grandchild, two dogs and a previously wild mustang horse. We love wine and travel. This keeps me busy and very fulfilled.

Q. Are you working on any new books or upcoming projects?

A. In addition to my new planner I produce framed art, greeting cards and a calendar every year. I also create booklets and workbooks that I use for mentoring creative entrepreneurs. And I will continue to contribute articles and stories and have a book slated for completion in the upcoming year.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. They can follow me at: KatGottlieb.com Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn with the handle katgottlieb.

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"Courage is the price life extracts for granting you peace. "

PAMELA VARKONY

I’ve been very impressed by how well organized the process has been. Once your story is accepted, the CSFTS team is with you every step of the way communicating by email and by conference call.

They make you feel part of the team.

When the book is published, they offer guidance and encouragement for you to do book signings.

Q. What pursued you to want a career as an inspirational speaker?

A. After I sold my advertising agency and recovered from the loss of my daughter, I was looking for a way to make a difference. I started by doing what I knew best; I offered my services to organizations and companies as a communication and leadership trainer. The more I worked inside, seeing the day-to-day interactions in the average workplace, the more I was stunned at how badly women were treated and how much discrimination there really was. That observation drove me to focus my speaking and writing on helping women to develop their leadership skills.

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. My name is Pamela Varkony.

I am a writer, speaker, woman’s advocate, and an observer of the human condition. I am also a wife and a mother and a member of the most wonderful tribe of women-friends. My early career was spent in the advertising business which was a good fit for my sales and people skills. Eventually, I ended up owning an ad agency/ PR firm which I thought would be my career going forward. That was until my daughter was killed in a car accident.

I sold my agency and stayed home for a year to grieve. When I was ready to join the world again, I

Q. Where do you see yourself in the next 3 years?

A. There’s an old saying, “Man plans and God laughs”. We mortals may make plans but we have no idea where we’ll be in three years. COVID wanted to live a life that would is the perfect example: At the behonor my daughter’s memory. ginning of 2020, did any of us know That is how I found myself on the that our lives would be virtually shut path I now walk. down for two years?

Now that the country, and the world, Q. How was your experience seems to be getting back to some being in the “Be You” book? semblance of normal, I hope to be A. Being published in “Be You” has doing more speaking dates, NOT on been a very positive experience.

Zoom, and most importantly, I plan It is the first time I have written to publish the book I’m working on, publicly about the experience “Ten Rules for Ladies”, a lifestyle and of losing my daughter and how leadership guide for fearless women. that changed my life, so it was a cathartic experience. It brought Q. Can you tell us how you emmany new people into my life, power through the written and other mothers who had lost chilspoken word? dren reached out to me. The death A. As thinking, feeling beings we of a child is so traumatic that have the innate ability to recognize only someone else who has gone truth when we see it or hear it. I rely through it can truly understand. on that ability in my writing and From a professional point of view, when I speak to an audience. I don’t

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by Alicia Keys and “Dare to Lead”

by Brené Brown. Most of my recent reading has involved research for my book, and long-form journalism to try to understand what is happening to this country.

Q. What would you say is the most difficult part of being a motivational speaker?

A. I really love my work. I love delving into people’s issues and trying to solve them. I love being with an audience and having them respond to my message. But travel has by far become the most difficult aspect of being a speaker. Travel used to be almost enjoyable. You could relax on the plane, do some reading, have something to eat. Now, it’s like being in a cattle car. Everyone is squished together, people are cranky, and there’s nothing to eat except on long flights. You know that question psychologists ask, “What would you do if money were not an issue?”. I’d buy a private jet!

talk about unrealistic outcomes… the one in a million rags to riches success story. I talk about how hard life can be, how unfair, but how you can find courage and joy in the most unexpected places. We are all capable of changing our circumstances with persistence and faith.

When I’m working with a live audience, whether in person or virtually, I always allow time at the end of the presentation for what in the business is called “Q&A” but what I prefer to call “a conversation”.

Interacting with an audience and hearing their stories can be very empowering for both of us.

Q. How would you ensure your speeches are captivating and informative?

A. I do my homework and my research. There are more than

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a few speakers out on the circuit that basically give the same speech wherever they go. When an organization hires me, I interview as many people inside the company as I can.

It’s important to understand what the client wants to achieve from your speech…are they trying to motivate their employees to increase performance, are they getting ready to make major changes such as downsizing, merger, etc., or are they looking to reward a job well done…or, in my case, are they looking to empower the women in their organization.

Q. Who are some of your favorite authors and books?

A. I have very eclectic tastes, they range from classic poets such as Butler and Yeats to mid-century authors like Pearl Buck, to contemporary non-fiction such as “More Myself”,

Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects?

A. My professional energies are focused on researching and writing my book, and re-building my speaking business post-COVID. I’m hoping to have Ten Rules for Ladies ready for to submit to “sample readers” after the first of the year. I have always tried to give as much time to volunteering as possible. Right now I’m working to help the Business Council for Peace (Bpeace) to resettle a group of Afghan families. And on behalf of the International Women’s Writing Guild (IWWG), I’m organizing Afghan women writers into a collective to tell their stories.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. My website is PamelaVarkony. com. I have both a personal and professional Facebook page. Pam Varkony is my personal page and Pamela Varkony Speaker is my pro page. I’m also on LinkedIn as Pamela Varkony. I love hearing from people so, I hope anyone who wants to connect will reach out. My email is Pam@PamelaVarkony.com.

MELISSA FACE

"Most moms are doing 'extra' in every facet of their lives."

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. I am Melissa Face, and I am a mother, wife, writer, and teacher.

I mostly write about my two children, Evan and Delaney, and parenting issues that interest me.

The quest for work-life balance is one of my favorite topics, and that was one of the themes in the piece I contributed to Chicken Soup for the Soul: Be You. I contribute/freelance regularly for some parenting and family publications, and I love the process of interviewing others and sharing their stories. My full-time gig, however, is teaching English 10 (and one block of English 11 this year) at the Appomattox Regional Governor’s School for the Arts and Technology in Petersburg, VA. It is an incredible place, full of talent and inspiration.

Q. How was your experience being in the “Be You” book?

A. I am always thrilled to be part of a Chicken Soup for the Soul collection. This book and its theme of female empowerment are very important to me. I clearly remember the day that I wrote my piece, “The Myth”. I had left a faculty meeting at my job feeling like I wasn’t doing enough and that only the people who were taking on extra responsibilities were the ones recognized for their efforts.

Most moms are doing “extra” in every facet of their lives, so the

idea of doing more in order to feel appreciated was so disheartening.

Writing this piece helped organize my thoughts on this subject.

Hopefully the publication of it has enabled another mom somewhere to know that she is not alone in feeling like “having it all” is a big, fat myth. In terms of achieving balance, I have so much more that I want to do with this issue down the road. Writing this piece was just a starting point.

Q. Who or what inspired you to be an author?

A. I have always enjoyed reading, so it’s fair to say that I was inspired by authors from my childhood, like Laura Ingalls Wilder and Madeline L’Engle. But I also realized early on that writing was something I could do well. I knew I could create something beautiful with my words that I was not able to create with a paintbrush, colored pencils, or clay. And even if it wasn’t always beautiful, it often

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helped me figure out a problem I was dealing with. That was something. That mattered.

Q. Let’s talk about your book “I Love you More than Coffee” and the motivation behind the book?

A. Sure! The book is a collection of essays about my first 8 years of motherhood. It begins with my positive pregnancy test (and all of the surrounding worry) and ends with my younger child going to school for the first time (more worry). The essays are written in real time, so the reader gets to experience exactly what those early days were like for me.

The title, I Love You More Than Coffee, came from my daughter Delaney. She asked me this when she was about three years old.

She was going through a phase where she asked us how much we liked her; she was trying to figure out how she measured up.

Q. What is your writing process like?

A. Because I have so many other roles in my life, my writing often happens when I can squeeze it in.

I get a lot of ideas (usually from my children) and try to write late at night when the house is quiet.

Sometimes, though, the process is fast and furious. “The Myth”, the story in the Chicken Soup collection was written in less than an hour. I came home from that meeting on fire. I usually write my first drafts by hand, but that night I went straight to the keyboard.

Q. How did publishing your first book change your process of writing?

A. My first book was a culmination of more than eight years of work.

I realized that if I wanted a followup; I would need to get moving and produce more. I have been more intentional with my writing time since then. I block off space on the weekends, and I try to attend a retreat each year.

Q. What advice would you give to other upcoming writers?

A. There is no substitute for practice. Society speaks a lot about talent, but hard work is a much larger part of the equation. I am following this advice, too. I want to continue to grow in my craft, and I want to explore writing other genres down the road. Practice is so important.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. I am on Instagram and Facebook @MelissaFaceWrites. Readers can also check out my website, melissaface.com, to read recent articles and check for upcoming book events!

Q. Are you working on any new books or upcoming projects?

A. I am! I have a follow- up to my first project coming out this spring.

This one is a guided journal, so moms get to read about some of my experiences and share their own! I’m also usually working on a freelance project or two. I have a piece about fostering and adoption that will be published in November in Tidewater Family Plus Magazine.

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"We're all created to be great. Music connects us all. Be your best self and stay in the music."

KEEYEN MARTIN

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. I am Keeyen Martin, Pianist, Singer, and Songwriter. I’m a Professional Recording Artist and I create music.

Q. What made you decide to pursue a career in the music industry?

A. Growing up in a musical family and environment made me decide to pursue a career in music. I was always around music and very involved in it. I easily fell in love with it!

Q. Tell us about your single “Tell me your name” and the motivation behind it?

A. Tell Me Your Name was inspired by the typically Highschool puppy love story. I wanted to write a song that reminded me of that young

fresh feeling when you see someone that takes your breath away. It’s a fun song that I think everyone can relate to.

Q. What albums did you grow up listening to?

A. I grew up listen to a lot of albums, but a few that stick out the most are: Songs in The Key Of Life-Stevie Wonder, The Body Guard SoundtrackWhitney Houston, Thriller, Dangerous, History Michael Jackson, Don’t Be Cruel - Bobby Brown, The Writings On The Wall - Destiny’s Child, Finally Karen - Karen Clark Sheard, Da Real World and Miss E, Under Construction - Missy Elliot, Urban Legend - TI, Crazy Sexy Cool, Fanmail - TLC Q. How would you describe the music that you typically create?

A. I coin my music as Pop Soul Feel Good Music. It’s all a fusion of genres I love and am inspired by.

Q. What is one message you would give to your fans?

A. That we’re all created to be great.

Music connects us all. Be your best self and stay in the music.

Q. What do you think is missing in the music industry?

A. I think what’s missing in the music industry is the spotlight, push, and resources on bonafide talent. There are so many legendary undiscovered artists out there that simply need a spotlight and a platform Q. Where can the fans follow you?

A. Fans can follow me at @ keeyenmartin on ALL Social Media. Just search my 1st and last name.

Q. Where do you see yourself in the next 3 years?

A. I see myself hopefully touring again if say and this pandemic gets under control. Also, making way more visuals and incredible moments in entertainment.

Q. How do you feel the internet has impacted the music business?

A. I think the internet has made music so much more accessible and received. Literally anyone from anywhere can listen, discover, and share as a creator or consumer of music. I think that’s really cool and exciting!

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"To be different is to be irreplaceable."

NAYSTAR

to dance. I am half Trinidadian, so I also like to incorporate culture and different sounds. “Gimme Sum” is probably my favorite song that I have written and sang thus far.

Q. Who has been some inspiration to you in the music industry?

A. My biggest musical influences of recent times are Beyonce and Rihanna. My biggest music inspiration period, is Whitney Houston.

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. My name is NAYSTAR. I am a singer/songwriter/professional dancer, & business owner.

Q. What made you decide to pursue your career in the music industry?

A. I grew up around music. Most of the women in my family sing. I also grew up singing in the choir.

Not to mention, my father is a huge fan of music himself and is in the music industry. He has owned a few music stores, done artist consulting, management and more.

It was almost pre-destined that this be my career path. It wasn’t just about the influences though.

They don’t make me do this; I’ve just also always had a strong passion to sing and perform. It is a release for me. I love to perform. I love to write. It’s my life.

Q. Let’s talk about your new single “Gimme Sum” & the motivation behind the song?

A. “Gimme Sum” is a feel-good song that I feel the world needs.

Aside from the fact that I am a sensual person (hence the lyrics lol), I like to make music that makes other feels good. I like to make songs that make them want

Q. Describe your creative process when you write new music?

A. My creative process when writing is to first find a beat I like. Believe it or not, that is the hardest part of the process. I know within the first 30 seconds if I want to write to it or not. Once I’ve picked the beat, I marinate on it. Think about what feeling the beat gives me. I consider the first thoughts that come to mind, and then I begin the hook. After that comes the verses and then boom, the song is coming together.

Q. Can you give us more details on your nonprofit “The Lift Family Inc” & how it got started?

A. I started my non-profit “The L.I.F.T. Family Inc.” during the pandemic. Its sole purpose is to promote mental health awareness,

education, and empowerment to girls/women all ages. In addition to music, I am in graduate school for Counseling: Clinical Mental Health. I plan to take a lot of my learning and apply it to the work with my non-profit. The message NAYSTAR sends across everything I do, is the importance of being and embracing yourself.

Valuing your mental health, your happiness and living in full transparency. Hence, the name of the non-profit.

Q. Where do you see yourself in the next 3 years?

A. In the next 3 years, I will be traveling the world doing big shows, singing, dancing, and touching lives.

Q. Tell us one of your most memorable achievements or accomplishments in your career?

A. The most memorable accomplishment thus far in my career was opening for Angie Stone.

She is a legend to me. That was major.

Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects?

A. I am working on more new music and preparing to shoot another video. Also, catch me on a stage near you.

Q. Tell the readers where they can follow you?

A. You can follow me on Instagram, @naydotstar. You can also subscribe to my website www.

NAYSTAR.com. Also go stream “Gimme Sum” now, on all major streaming platforms.

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ASIA MION

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us.

Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. Hello WIB Magazine!

It’s your girl Asia Mion the hottest newest actress and host.

Q. What made you pursue your career in acting?

A. I have always wanted to entertain and act, and I finally found a way to follow my dreams.

Q. Who are some people that influenced you in your career?

A. Some of the people that influenced my career is definitely Oprah, Johnny Depp, and Steve Harvey.

Q. Let’s talk about your role and experience being in “Finesse”.?

A. Finesse was pretty cool. I played a hard role and nailed it! Everyone loved it.

Q. Tell us one of your most memorable achievements or accomplishments you’ve had in your career?

A. My most memorable achievements have to be my acting roles in Finesse, Turnt, and Finesse.

Q. Let’s talk about the movie “On-Ten” and the role you’ve played in the movie?

A. On-Ten is fun and exciting. I will be playing a role as “MaMacita’ with a crazy boyfriend.

Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects?

A. Yes, my newest product Skinnipromax.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. On Instagram @iamasiamion

Q. Tell us an accomplishment you see yourself achieving in the next 3 years?

A. Having a lead role and hosting my show on televisions.

Q. What are some of the hardships or challenges you’ve went through in this industry?

A. I’ve been through the storm and being an independent woman in a male dominated industry is hard at times.

"I want all my fans, supporters, and my team to use me as an example to follow your dreams, make your goals and stay on the journey of success."

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"I would like to see myself content and happy, and hopefully making the world a better place."

VALERIE DYER

saying that my story had made the first cut. Another week or so later, I made it into the next round. By the end of March I received word that my story had made it into Chicken Soup For The Soul: Be You and would be published in May of 2020.

Unfortunately, due to Covid 19, the publication date was pushed back to April 2021. Having to wait a year to see my story in print was incredibly hard to do after waiting so many years to see my dream realized. A lot happened to me during the course of that ear so the day my case of Chicken Soup for The Soul: Be You books arrived I felt incredibly proud and accomplished.

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. My name is Valerie Dyer. I am a 44-year-old mom, wife, daughter, sister, auntie, niece and friend. I am a writer, a dreamer, an empath, and a survivor! By day, I am the school secretary at Hancock Grammar School, a K-8 school in my hometown of Hancock, Maine.

I also write for a local marketing company part time.

Q. How was your experience being in the “Be You” book?

A. I had always dreamed of becoming a writer and when 2020 hit I

decided I was going to try to become published. I found the deadline for submitting writing for Chicken Soup for The Soul: Be You on January 31st, the day of the deadline. I texted my nephew, Ryan and said, “Are you ok if Auntie doesn’t come to your swim meet tonight? I really want to submit a story for this deadline I found.” My nephew was more than ok with it, so I set to work with the writing prompt and my laptop.

When I was done, I held my breath and hit submit, never expecting in a million years that my story would ever be accepted. About two and a half weeks later I received an email from Chicken Soup for The Soul

Q. What or who motivated you to be a writer?

A. When I was in fifth grade, I discovered that I had a love for writing. I had been reading anything I could get my hands on for a couple of years, so it was no surprise that I loved writing as much as reading. All through elementary and middle school I had stories included in our school Young Authors Conference, a collection of student written stories compiled together in a school-wide publication. After high school I wrote stories mostly in my head, rarely having the time to actually put pen to paper. As my children grew older, I went back to writing in my spare time. When I went through my divorce from their father in 2013 I created a blog as a way to cope with the dark side of divorce. It was truly a cathartic process for me.

Q. October is breast cancer awareness. How did you overcome the struggles of being a breast cancer survivor?

A. I was diagnosed with stage 1 DCIS with MI breast cancer on October 9, 2020. I had no family history and was shocked with the diagnosis. My ex-husband had been diagnosed with colon cancer in January of 2020, what would the odds be that I would get cancer, too? Naturally, my daughters were my biggest concern upon diagnosis, as they were already dealing with

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one parent with cancer. I was fortunate that the cancer was found when it was; had I not gone to the screening I may not have been so lucky. Two surgeries and 18 rounds of radiation later, I celebrated Christmas with my family cancer-free. The time after treatments was a time for reflection. A cancer diagnosis brings thoughts of mortality to the forefront of your mind. I dealt with all of the emotions from anger to fear to thankfulness for the outcome I had, as other people are not as lucky. My daughters lost their dad in May of 2021. For me it has been emotionally challenging to lose the father of my children and to watch my daughters struggle with such a devastating loss, all while still healing physically and emotionally from my own battle with cancer.

I let all of those emotions fuel my fire and I found a way to give back to my community. My youngest daughter was applying for local scholarships last spring when the idea hit me to start a cancer survivor scholarship for local teens who had faced the unfair hardship of a cancer diagnosis in their immediate families. I sold copies of Chicken Soup for The Soul: Be You and raised $3500 in the first

month. In June of 2021 the Beth C. Wright Cancer Survivor Scholarship was established and we awarded four scholarships to graduates of the Ellsworth High School Class of 2021.

Q. What advice would you give on how to best support a loved one going through breast cancer?

A. Talk to them. Don’t be afraid to bring up their diagnosis, trust me, they are already thinking about it 24/7. Even the strongest people are scared of the unknown certainties a cancer diagnosis brings. Don’t say, “If you need anything I am here.”

Just DO something for them without being asked. The most thoughtful actions were from the ones that showed up unannounced at my doorstep with flowers or dinner.

Q. Let’s talk about your story “stronger” and the motivation behind it?

A. My girls were 100% my motivation behind “Stronger”. We have been through a lot, my girls and me. But we survived it together and it made us all stronger. There is a saying that you never know how strong you are until being strong is your only option. We learned just

how true that saying is all those years ago and we are reminded again every time we face another new battle.

For years I thought I was weak. It wasn’t until I survived the worst year of my life all those years ago that I realized how wrong I was.

Since then, I have been approached by women who watched what I went through and were seeking advice. I don’t advise divorce as a way to find happiness and strength, but I do advise women to dig deep and find their fight. Never lose faith or settle for less than what you deserve.

Q. Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

A. In the next five years I would like to see myself content and happy, and hopefully making the world a better place. I have learned that my value is not in what I do but who I am, and if I am making a positive difference in the world around me that is all that truly matters.

Q. If you can go anywhere in the world where would you go?

A. I have always dreamed of going to Hawaii. I have a hunch it stems back to being madly in love with Tom Selleck on Magnum PI as a child, but the Hawaiian landscape has always appealed most to me. I would also love to visit the PearlHarbor National Memorial.

Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects?

A. I am always working on something… Sometimes my writing is just for me. Sometimes I share it on my blog. My blog tends to be very candid and honest, it’s where I share my thoughts. I also have several stories I am writing in my head at all times, a few have even made it to paper.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. Readers can follow me at https://gigitwoshoes.wordpress. com/.

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"I enjoy cooking, playing pool, and game shows."

ORIGINAL SOUL Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do. A. My name is Original Soul, and I am the CEO of M4g Entertainment. I have been in the music industry for almost 30 years and as a solo artist, my message is as it has always been: speak from the heart and speak my truth. As a label owner, I’m a mentor for aspiring artists that want to be a part of the industry.

Q. What made you want to pursue a career in the music industry?

A. I love words. I love poetry. I’ve been writing since 4th grade, but it wasn’t until high school that I took it seriously. I use music as my escape from the outside world and I enjoy sharing my gift with others because I feel like they can relate to what I have to share. It was never about being the most popular

or the wealthiest. Sharing is caring, and I wanted to share something that was outside the norm and that relatable to the listening audience.

Q. What’s the meaning behind the name “Original Soul”?

A. I had a relative that once sang with the Soul Stirrers in the 1960s, so I took part of that and added “Original” because I feel like I have a different approach to how I choose to do music and a sound

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that is all my own. I don’t want to do the same thing that everyone else is doing; that’s the whole idea of being original. I tend to go against the grain and speak on things that you’re not used to hearing.

Q. Tell us who your top 5 music influencer of all time?

A. Common, KRS-One, GURU (R.I.P.), The Roots, Ice Cube. I love the emcees who had that clever wordplay.

Q. Let’s talk about “Nommo” and the motivation behind it?

A. In 1998 I was a regular at an open mic poetry spot in Dallas, TX known as Reciprocity. The owner of the venue got a bunch of us together to be a part of a compilation CD, NOMMO: Lyrical Alchemy. It was about the power of unity and building through spoken word. The goal of Nommo is to bring about a unified community who are at one with the word that comes through repetition and in a form that is easily entered.

Q. if you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

A. I feel like a lot of artists are not getting to be themselves and speaking from the heart, and everyone sounds the same, using the same formula, same sounding beats, same content, same everything.

Creativity has been compromised.

Variety is non-existent. The audience is not getting left with much of a choice. I would love to hear more artists speak from their heart and create some variety with their music. Take the violence and the degradation of women out of the music and bring about some unity and love.

Q. Do you have any hobbies or interest outside of music?

A. Outside of music and writing, I enjoy cooking, playing pool, and game shows. I got into these things

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as a way to keep my mind occupied and off the news.

Q. Describe what your creative process is like when you write new music?

A. My writing process once again goes back to the attribute of speaking from the heart, so a lot of times when I work on a new song, I’m expressing feelings about a particular situation in our world. By doing this, it keeps the listeners aware of what’s going on and if that catches on, it cannot be denied because you can’t stop the sun from shining. Either I will hear a beat in my head and go from there, or I will write something, and the beat will follow.

Q. Are you working on any new projects or events?

A. The new year will bring the 10th anniversary for my label (January 13), and my 30th anniversary as a recording artist (March 20). I will be releasing my 18th album before the end of next year. I am also building my roster

of artists for the label.

Q. Tell the readers where they can follow you?

A. I urge everyone to check me out on my website, www.originalsoulonline.com. All of my social media, merchandise, and music videos are included there.

" Waking up each day is another CHANCE to make the CHOICE to be the CHANGE."

DORIAN BAHAM

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. Dorian Baham is an New Orleans native who now resides in Atlanta, Ga. She is a salon owner of 16 years now. She is a Barber Stylist who also created Barber Dolls for her bald and beautiful clients. Dorian is also a book author of two self-help books. She’s also a Mixologist and has her own mobile bartending business named “JUST DRINK IT” where she’s hired for private parties, weddings and events, pool parties etc... with her outgoing personality and creative mixtures that she relates to modes of music. Dorian Baham is also a Philanthropist and New Orleans’ Barber City Ambassador.

She also is now co-owner of Frame Work Consulting in Atlanta, Ga. with partner Marcellina Fulton.

Ms. Baham is also a leading lady in an upcoming T.V. Series on DTNTV NETWORK and the lead in a stage play on the same network that’ll soon be on tour in January 2022. She’s a woman of many different hats and doesn’t mind wearing them upon any role of hers that’s up next.

Q. Who or what motivated you to be the woman you are today?

A. Life, my mom, and the people I met under the umbrella of Picture Me Rollin’ gave me the motivation to never become a quitter. After being a mom to my one and only daughter, quitting was never an

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option, it was motivation to be the inspiration she needed to fulfill her dreams and career goals. Even when I want to give up, I don’t. Letting down the people of my city and my daughter isn’t even a thought. I walk through fire, closed doors, and many disappointments knowing that my daughter and the people of my community are counting on me to be the influencer of change for their generational norms.

Q. Let’s talk about “Picture Me Rollin” and how it got started?

A. Picture Me Rollin’ was created by my mother, the late Ms. Dorothy Auguillard a.k.a Ms. Dot and my stepfather John Auguillard a.k.a Big John in 1995. They wanted to set a foundation for one of my older sisters and I since we were into the world of cosmetology. My Mom was a stylist for 50 years. I learned to cut hair at 12 years old. The name Picture Me Rollin’ was influenced by the love of music and the iconic Tupac Shakur. Throughout the years of being a Barber Stylist I created Barber Dolls. Barber Dolls was influenced by a salon location in Atlanta who opened doors for me to come and service my clients during my transition. It’s named the Beautiful Doll House. In working there and advertising my female barbering the clients became Dolls of mine. Barber Dolls is a name created and given to my clients whom I service that wears Barber cuts due to choice or medical issues.

My objective is to make women feel beautiful in their own skin and hair. P.M.R. touched many lives and helped many in the community.

Many celebrity stylists and salon owners were created by the influence of P.M.R. salon. Our salon is one of the longest lasting black owned salons in New Orleans. Though it has been downsized since COVID19 it still exists and will forever be respected and never forgotten.

Q. Can you give us more details on “DTNTV”?

A. DTNTV NETWORK is another accolade for Dorian Baham.

Throughout the years in New Orleans, filming has also been a Parr of her story. She has filmed with NCIS NEW ORLEANS, QUEEN & SLIM, GET HARD, several reality shows attempts, and much more. Dorian has hosted events over the years and also had her own T.V. show that covered stories of many New Orleans natives who have overcome and made a difference in her community with a partner Reshaunda Blanks. She has been interviewed by many on TV shows and guests of radio. So now here in Atlanta DTNTV NETWORK was introduced to her by her partners of FRAMEWORK CONSULTING, Damian “D.J. Jackson & Marcellina Fulton. They knew the experience of Ms. Baham and pushed her to continue in the field of her successes.

Thankfully she was casted as a main character of one of DTNTV’s new upcoming TV series and also casted into play to introduce the network around the world. The network owned and created by Ms. Shamiar Spann is a phenomenal platform and I’m forever grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a great production and cast. DTNTV is a global network shown in all 50 states and 36 countries. So y’all look out for ‘SONYA’ and ‘MOMMA ELLA’ and tune and tap in with DTN NETWORK.

Q. Let’s talk about your 2 books and the motivation behind them?

A. Never Judge A Book by The Cover was a testimonial story of Dorian Baham fleeing a near death domestic dispute. That book is sort of a biography that leads up to telling the story of HER truth about what happened in the tragedy and the overcoming’s of it. She spoke so openly about her life that she was presented with a book opportunity and took it.

Some grammatical errors were made within the publishing of the book because Ms. Baham went with a new publishing company that followed her story and who were women that were inspired by her strength of sharing her story. Dorian felt as if she should be the voice for women living in silence of domestic violence. LIFE HAPPENS TO THE BEST OF US was written afterwards. This book is about short fictionalized truths. It was inspired by her mission of helping and building up the homeless and helpless in the community.

Q. As a female leader what has been the most significant barrier in your career?

A. It›s hard to put a barrier on my life as an influencer in New Orleans.

Everything I’ve done couldn’t have been done without the amazing people that I met under PMR while using my talents. So much has been experienced and when I finally got the call that I was chosen to be a city Ambassador was astonishing. I just wish my mom was here to see it all. She knew who I was and where I was headed. She passed in April 2020 due to Covid19 I was then awarded a certificate from the city.

PMR was acknowledged finally, and I did it for my mom. She deserved that recognition, well we both did.

That was a feeling I can’t describe.

Q. Tell us some goals you are working on accomplishing in the next 5 years?

A. In the next 5 years I plan to write another book. I want to be in film and radio, influencing lives across the world. Teaching people how to become UNSTUCK and change the generational norms. I want to work hand in hand changing the lives and lifestyles of others. Getting to the source of what makes them stop at a certain point in life. I want to influence more people to be Faith Jumpers. I moved to Atlanta with a mission to make a mark, reach back for my community, and move forward to grow, experience, and get people to face the truths of their past to ensure a healthier future.

I want to be on the televisions of all homes across the world making people laugh and teaching wisdom.

Yeah, there’s already those types of people in the world, but a star is born every day and God has gifts in us all that He chooses times to open the door for us to share with the world. NOW IS MY TIME! I’ve made enough sacrifices and been really uncomfortable so now I’m praying it was all for a huge success and amazing future. I never want to lose my genuine heart to make an inspirational difference in today’s world.

Q. Are you working on any new events or projects?

A. I am currently still the owner of P.M.R salon suite in New Orleans.

I am the Co- Owner of Frame Work Consulting and DTN NETWORK has my time wrapped up into “The Birth” play and “Making The Cut” Tv series. All those are my current projects, so my life is on tour for the next 6 months. I also have my own shoe line with ALIVE SHOES. My shoes are called ‘PICTURE ME ROLLIN’. My late Mother always stated no one knew what it was to walk in her shoes. So, all the people I’ve met along the way, all the experiences and resources, and where I ended up this far would have never been without PMR. I’m so excited and blessed to be a part of it all. The reward will be greater later. I can’t wait to be the next role model of the world.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. My social media outlets are Instagram as @msdoeoriginalpmr.

My Facebook is Dorian Baham, and my books NEVER JUDGE A BOOK BY THE COVER and LIFE HAPPENS TO THE BEST OF US can be found on Amazon and Kindle. My shoes are found on Alive Shoes website that I’ll list. Also, dorianbaham.weebly gives some past insight of Ms. Dorian Baham.

I definitely will be on your screens with DTNTV.

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"Faith.

Perseverance.

Confidence. A strong team.

Understanding that you can't do things on your own, you're going to need help."

DR. TARA TURNER

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. My name is Dr. Tara Turner, and I am the Founder/Executive Director of HBCU ELITE, the Clark Atlanta University Head Women’s Tennis Coach, and an adjunct professor in the Clark Atlanta University School of Education.

Q. Let’s talk about “HBCU Elite” and how it got started?

A. I began HBCU ELITE in September of 2020. I was constantly hearing parents, family members, coaches, etc. of high school student-athletes complaining about the lack of interest their student athletes received from HBCU coaches.

These athletes were being recruited by coaches from PWIs, and although some of them really had an interest in attending an HBCU, they weren’t hearing from coaches. Some were going as far as reaching out themselves and were finding coaches to be unresponsive. I was experiencing things firsthand from the coaches’ perspective… a lack of resources, juggling all responsibilities (while not having an assistant coach), and still maintaining a full-time job. So occasionally, emails are missed. I thought about the complaints experienced on both sides and decided to

create a solution for the problem.

I created HBCU ELITE to serve as a liaison between student-athletes who are interested in attending an HBCU and HBCU athletic coaches/recruiters.

Q. Where do you see this nonprofit organization being in the next three years?

A. In the next three years I see HBCU ELITE being known by high school student- athletes and HBCU athletic programs as the hub for recruiting, resources, mental health programming, and corporate/ organizational partnerships. It is my intent to have HBCU ELITE pioneer unthought of opportunities for HBCU athletic programs and HBCU student-athletes while providing support and resources along the way.

Q. What is some of the hardships or challenges you’ve been through in your career?

A. I was an educator in both Florida and Georgia school systems for 12 years before pursuing HBCU ELITE full-time and working in the collegiate space - in both athletics and academics. Due to the fact that 11 of my 12 years was in urban education, I saw many disheartening things over the past decade. I’ve experienced students who weren’t receiving an adequate education, I’ve also had students get

shot, killed, and even take lives. So unfortunately, although I have a lot of fond memories, I also have quite a few traumatic instances that shaped my experience.

Q. Tell us one of your most memorable achievement or accomplishment you’ve had in your career?

A. I would love to speak about one of my most recent memorable experiences. HBCU ELITE is just over a year old, so I was ecstatic and almost in disbelief when I was asked to become a Nike Yardrunner this year. To hear that I was selected for the work that I am beginning to do with HBCU ELITE while trying to change the landscape of HBCU athletic recruiting was an amazing feeling and an honor.

Q. What advice can you give to the next generation of female leaders?

A. Continue to speak up. Continue to speak out. God has given you thoughts and ideas for a reason. Do not be afraid to use your voice and your platform to be transformative.

Q. What are the most important attributes of successful leaders today?

A. Faith. Perseverance. Confidence.

A Strong Team. Understanding that you can’t do things on your own, you’re going to need help.

Q. How would you describe your future in 3 words?

A. Anticipatory. Intentional.

Unlimited.

Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects?

A. We are but we’re not at liberty to discuss yet. Follow us on social media to stay updated with what we have going on!

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. On Instagram and Twitter - @hbcueliteorg and on Facebook, HBCU ELITE.

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"Let's dive in the culture, disrupt the vultures that's picking their minds."

BOY

WONDA Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. My pleasure, I’m just glad that I could help someone with my transparency & vulnerability. I enjoyed the convo and being on your platform. My name is Boy Wonda and I’m CEO and founder of No Grind No Glory Music Group an Inspirational Company based out of Central, FL an extension of No Grind No Glory, LLC. Not only do I collaborate with other companies in films, but I’m also just a creative with ideas at heart through my music, parodies, acting, and comedy. I also team up with Beacon of Light International Outreach Ministries and help give back to our communities throughout yearly throwing Back 2 School Bashes, giving away food for the Thanksgiving holidays, and presents for the Christmas holiday season.

Q. What made you want to pursue a career in the music industry?

A. I’ve always been influenced by music in general all my life and I never really thought that I would be on the other side as a creative making the music. My Cousin H.L. CEO of Night prowler Records introduced me to music and when I saw his setup, I knew then and only then that’s what I really wanted to do.

I was so intrigued and infatuated with the process and the privilege of just being able to create. it ignited and grew a passion in me that I still have to this day.

Q. Let’s talk about your latest release “Gutta 2 Glory” and the motivation about it?

A. Man ‘’Gutta 2 Glory’’ is an anthem for those who ever been or still feel or get treated like the underdog, who ever felt stuck in a place they may have felt they

couldn’t get out of, or a goal that may seem unreachable. It’s an anthem that give you the courage to keep evolving, to keep growing, to keep chasing your dreams even if it seems impossible, even if you don’t have the resources, even if you don’t have the support, you’re willing to push through to get to a place of success personally in your life and not settle and stop where you are.

It’s a record to show an example of if he or she can do it and came from nothing, I can do the same with the right mindset, dedication, commitment, and drive.

Q. What has been the hardest/ most challenging part of your career?

A. From a personal aspect Losing my mother this past August has been the hardest and most challenging part of my career. It has changed me in ways I’ve never felt in my entire life. I’ve been in such a crazy space in life I took time away to grieve, and still grieving. It’s like time stopped, it was unexpected, and I felt lost, and confused in a way. I never thought I would want to question my purpose, and what I love to do. I’m still working through it because this is going to be a lifelong process, but with the help of God keeping him first foremost, my family, my friends, and my girlfriend I have such a great support system that allows me to grieve, but loves me enough to not allow me to stay in my grief, and keep pushing, and keep being purposeful because

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I know that’s what my mom would have wanted and everyone else who is rooting for me. From a business aspect just being able to have the funds to do it in a major way, bigger than I ever could. I’m still going and I’m not quitting or stopping because my legacy, my future with the love of my life depends on it, my eternal legacy depends on it, and I will keep striving and will accomplish what I set out to do.

Q. Tell us one of your most memorable achievements or accomplishments you’ve had in your career?

A. One of the most memorable achievements of my career is winning the 2021 Eddy Award as the Hip Hop artist of the year on the Impact Tv Network which is one of the biggest televised platforms for independent artists. To be able to have one of my favorite artists (Canton Jones) that I look up to and want to collaborate with one day introduced the category and when my name was said it just made it that much more meaningful.

Q. Who are some inspirations to you in the music industry?

A. Canton Jones, Lecrae, KB, 1KPhew, NoBigDyl (Indie Tribe), This’l, Dee-1, George Lott, Bizzle, D-Maub, K-Drama, Gospel Gangstaz, T-Bone, Pettidee, Da Truth, Flame, Andy Mineo.

Q. What is the most surprising fact you’ve learned about yourself this year?

A. I know this may be cliché but just seeing that I can be able to still move and continue being purposeful being challenged with a massive amount of pain through the loss of my mother and still be able to be a voice for others. If I can be honest, it’s very challenging even getting out of the bed, getting back into the swing of things. I’m taking it day by day and pacing myself where I’m not doing too much but still able to be affective where I am, and still complete my goals business wise, and personally wise.

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Q. How do you balance your personal and professional life?

A. I Prioritize. To me my personal life will always trump my professional life because if my well-being and mental health isn’t taken care of, then how can I take care of my business? So, for me it really isn’t just about balancing, but more so prioritizing and I make sure my family, friends, and girlfriend know they are a priority. It’s also about what’s important and how to live and still not spread yourself thin and still get what’s important done, but when you prioritize you know what needs to be done specifically, and you’re able to be more affective, more focused versus trying to juggle everything and get something partially taken care of or nothing done at all. It’s hard for your business life to flourish if your personal life isn’t flourishing, and realizing that when your personal life is intact, your business life will be intact. You are your business.

2 Success’’ Mixtape which comes with the book as well, a guide helping you unlocking your best potential in becoming successful and how to get there, followed by my album ‘’Life After Death’’ which will drop in 2022 as well. The Singles ‘’Gutta 2 Glory’’ & ‘’Bust A Move’’ off that project are available now and you can stream it on all digital and streaming platforms. We also have scripted short films we are working on, as well as my acting debut.

Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects?

A. Yes in 2022 I have a collaborative project with my best friend and my big brother entitled ‘’The Blueprint

Facebook: OfficialBoyWonda Instagram: OfficialBWonda Twitter: OfficialBWonda YouTube: NoGrindNoGlory Website: www.nogrindnoglory.net.

Q. Tell the readers where they can follow you?

A. You can follow me on all social media platforms below and be sure to head to my website and grab you some merch as well listed below and let’s make history streaming ‘’Gutta 2 Glory’’ feat. Tim Moses & my follow up single ‘’Bust A Move’’.

Thank you for your love and support, you can stream the new singles on Tidal, Amazon Music, Apple Music, & Spotify.

"My purpose is to prepare others for their potential in the Gospel music industry and other areas."

JAMES C. BIRDSONG, JR.

to be a famous man someday”. My mother, Belinda Germany-Birdsong resides here in the Atlanta, Georgia area and she has a story of her own. The public at large is aware of my family, whom the music industry considers as the famed Birdsong family with our roots in music and ministry. My cousins are the world-renowned R&B legend Cindy Birdsong, a former member of Patti LaBelle & The Bluebells and the Supremes, retired NBA All-Star pro basketball player Otis Birdsong and the late Edwin Birdsong, a legendary 1970s era funk keyboardist and GRAMMY®Award winner whose music have sampled by today’s platinum-selling artists from Mary J. Blige to Kanye West. As a product of the innercity southside in Richmond, my beginnings allow me as a miracle child healed at 3-years-old from a speech impediment, attending special education classes and others to transcend where God placed me today on this platform.

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. First, it is a blessing and honor to join you in this informative interview with the readers of Where It Begins Magazine. For those who don’t know me, I am a Gospel vocalist, songwriter, author, motivational speaker, advocate for today’s youth, and national awardwinning figure in the Gospel music industry. I am blessed to wear many hats throughout my journey, and I am grateful to God for sharing my story and experience with others, especially among today’s youth.

Q. Let’s talk about a little of your journey and how you became the man you are today?

A. I was born and raised in Richmond, California, a city

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located northeast across the bay from San Francisco. My father, the late Rev. James C. Birdsong, Sr. was a minister, Civil Rights activist for the disabled, and respected public figure in my hometown. He was among the group of men and women whom I considered “The Icons of Richmond” that consist of our local elected officials, pastors, educators, entrepreneurs, community activists, and the list goes on. My father was a gifted and talented singer who had an opportunity to pursue a major break in the Gospel music industry during the Golden era.

Unfortunately, he did not pursue it. He died on June 10th, 1997, at 58-years-old during the final week of my 11th-grade year at my alma mater, Fairfield High School in Fairfield, California. Before he transitioned, my father told me these words, “Son, you are going

Q. Who has been a big influence in your life and career?

A. The influence of my parents, family, teachers, and elders in the community has been a major influence in my life and career.

They installed principles to lead, direct and guide me. As I reflect on my childhood, adolescence, and now as an adult, it motivated me to strive for excellence. There are always going to be those who God ordained in my life for a reason.

They are going to love you enough to be honest if it’s right or wrong.

I am sharing this from my own experience. Now, the youth of today can apply those lessons.

Q. Tell us an accomplishment you see yourself achieving in the next 3 years?

A. One of those accomplishments is to be married and be a husband.

God has blessed me with a special, beautiful young Afro-Latina woman in my life. When I turned 40-years-

"I want to continue building a legacy for the next generation to carry the torch."

old in 2020, God answered my prayers and everything else begin to fall into place. One day, the world will know our story. We truly do love and adore each other. Our families are supportive of us. Like me, she has a love and desire for today’s youth to be successful. I want to continue building a legacy for the next generation to carry the torch.

Q. What is some of the hardships you went through in your career?

A. After I graduated from Fairfield High School in 1998, I continue to pursue my dream and goal for the Gospel music industry. My mother and I were still residing in Fairfield, California at the time.

When the millennium came, I was in my early twenties. I wanted a different direction. Things begin to change in California. In 2001, God revealed to me about moving

to Atlanta for college and pursuing the Gospel music industry. It was not an easy task. We made the huge step of faith to move to Atlanta after placing our belongings in storage.

This was in 2005. On our way, we stayed in Vallejo, California for three months and proceeded to Dallas, Texas. While we were in Dallas, my mother told me one day, “James, I don’t know where we going to end up, but we are going to Atlanta”.

Upon our arrival in Atlanta, we were in a homeless shelter for a short time. God blessed us to get our place. From there, I enrolled at Beulah Heights University in 2006 and graduated with my Bachelor of

Arts in Biblical Education four years old before my thirtieth birthday.

I had my shares of trials and tests. I refused to give up and was determined to pursue my dreams.

We cannot have a testimony without going through a test.

Q. Let’s talk about your book and the motivation behind the book?

A. I’ve been asked this question throughout the United States and abroad. God placed it on my heart to write The Best is Yet to Come: A Testimony of One Young Man’s Redemption after encouragement by others to share my story of being

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an overcomer, the history of the Birdsong family and the legacy in music, my journey in the Gospel music industry and how today’s youth can be encouraged. This book is a memoir. It took me a year to author this book, which is twenty-five chapters long. When the book became published and released in September 2017, my mother, and I traveled to Los Angeles, California for a special book signing honoring my family.

The book signing became well attended with appearances by Los Angeles area politicians and staff members, national Gospel artists, and the Los Angeles Sentinel newspaper doing an informative and well written article on this special occasion. After the book signing occurred, God begin to open doors for me throughout the United States and abroad to share my story on multiple television, radio, and print media platforms.

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Q. How do you define your purpose?

A. My purpose is to prepare others for their potential in the Gospel music industry and other areas. In other words, we need to learn how to take the lessons taught to us and reached back. I am one of those public figures raised in the inner city. Yes, I had a blessed childhood and was surrounded by a loving, supportive family, friends, and members of the community. When someone raised in the inner-city makes it and becomes successful, they forget their foundation. I never forget about the foundational lessons.

industry and entertainment arena to the United States Congress in various areas. On January 5th, 2021, the United States House of Representatives recognized me in the Congressional Record at Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Two years before this, I received the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award from Marquis Who’s Who Publications, the publishers of renowned autographical reference books such as Who’s Who in America, Who’s Who in the World, and others. I have been a listee in Who’s Who in America since 2004. The Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award is the highest honor bestowed upon Marquis Who’s Who Publications. Past recipients of this award include the late General Colin Powell and Warren Buffet. I also won the 2021 8th Annual Kingdom Image Awards for Influencer of the Year in Columbus, Ohio, and was honored with the Impact Award of Honor in Music at the 2021 7th Annual Antigua & Barbuda Gospel Music & Media Awards in St. John’s, Antigua of the West Indies. I met the previous Governor of Georgia, the Honorable Nathan Deal in 2018 when I was honored by the Georgia State Senate with a resolution. I received two honorary Doctorate degrees in 2021 from New Covenant International Bible College in Columbia, South Carolina. They are in Sacred Music and Sacred Letters. There are more than what’s mentioned. I tell people all the time nobody but God who made this all possible.

Q. What has been some of your greatest achievements or awards you’ve received in your career?

A. Wow, I don’t know where to begin. I received over forty awards from the Gospel music

Q. Are you working on any new events or projects?

A. Currently, I serve as the Founder, President, and Executive Director of Birdsong Association of Broadcasting & Arts, Inc. (BABA), a 501© (3) nonprofit

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organization in Atlanta, Georgia with additional operations planned for Los Angeles, New York City and Washington, D.C. with the mission, goal, and purpose to help today’s youth in the African American community from K-12 grade to pursue their dreams and careers in performing arts and broadcasting by establishing partnerships with local school districts, 40 HBCUs, scholarships, workshops, programs, initiatives, hosting a yearly annual Gospel concert and Pre-Concert VIP Awards Gala as a benefit and much more. We now have a partnership with the Atlanta Public Schools and will continue to move forward. Our organization offers six programs, and at this time, we are reaching out to professionals in the entertainment arena and media broadcasting to serve as mentors to the students. This organization will proceed on a national platform.

In addition to this, I am pursuing on becoming a national Gospel recording artist and record label owner. With the record label, my goal is to provide an opportunity for today’s aspiring artists to record and perform on a national platform when others turn them away. I am blessed to be well-connected in this industry, and I want to do my part to give back.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. The readers can visit my official website at www.jamescbirdsongjr. net for booking inquires, my itinerary, updates, how to order the book, and much more. For my social media accounts, they can follow me on my Facebook fan page at James C. Birdsong, Jr. For Instagram, it is @jamescbirdsongjr and Twitter at TheRealJBOnline. To learn more about Birdsong Association of Broadcasting & Arts, go to www.babaofficial.org. Thank you so much for this opportunity. Please be safe, and may God bless you.

"There's always something to challenge me in trying to come up with natural solutions and treatments that can help someone look beautiful!"

HEATHER

MARIANNA

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. I am Heather Marianna, founder and CEO of all-natural beauty brands Beauty Kitchen and Marianna Naturals. We create a wide array of plant-based products for the maintenance and treatment of skin along with a range of body and bath items that promote the wellbeing of mind, body, and spirit.

Q. What made you want to pursue a career in Beauty products?

A. My career path really evolved quite organically. I had spent many years in the corporate world doing sales, marketing, and promotions.

I suppose I always had a natural skill for management and business, so this prepared me well for running my own company. But the beauty aspect really reaches all the way back to my childhood because I’ve always had bad skin.

In order to improve it, I was always making my own skincare recipes at home using natural ingredients I could easily get my hands on out of the refrigerator or the pantry. This eventually evolved into trying to help others with the same persistent issues I had like acne, dry or itchy skin. It became even more important to me when I was old enough to realize that all those expensive products were loaded with chemical ingredients.

I wanted to really find natural alternatives with long proven beneficial properties.

Q. Let’s talk about your brand “Beauty Kitchen” and the motivation behind the brand?

A. I stepped away from the corporate grind because I wanted some creative challenge so I started a YouTube channel demonstrating how to mix some of the effective “recipes” using fresh ingredients anyone can find in your kitchen or at a general health food store. I really just wanted to share information and be a source of

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knowledge. But the channel became so popular it took on a life of its own. I would be invited to do my demos for television news shows and my friends and followers were constantly asking me to just start my own business. Eventually, it just became inevitable that I created my own lines. It was a long process of sourcing for pure plant-based ingredients and setting up my own facilities so that I could stay on top of the quality and the pricing. It was important to me that my customers get the finest products at prices they can afford.

Q. Tell us about your 3 most best-selling products you have?

A. Honestly, we have so many bestsellers that can also change depending on the season. But our customers do have specific favorites.

One popular one is the Lavender Gift Set because in these hectic modern times, I think we all need the soothing self-care that comes from my 12oz Lavender & Take A Breather& Bath Soak, 6oz & A Girl’s Gotta Rest & Lavender Sleep Spray, 4oz Lavender Infused Relaxation Mask. We also have a range of richly hydrating body salves which are a little less than butter but a whole

lot more than lotion. We have them in watermelon, citrus and sage, and coconut. Another popular line are our face masks including the Pumpkin Enzyme Peel Mask, the Blue Green Marine algae Clay Mask, and the Zen Your Skin Facial Mask.

But customers can also try out a bunch of products in one bundle. A very popular item is our Smooth Your Skin for the Win bundle that helps banish cellulite, fight razor bumps, reduce pores, hydrate, and tone skin not only on the body but on the face as well. Included are the Bye Bye Cellulite Coffee Infused Body Scrub, Bye Bye Bumps Razor Burn Spray, Peppermint Pore Reducing Spray, and Drench Balm.

Q. How does your product help with dry and rough textured skin?

A. We have several products that can treat dry and rough textured skin. You simply need to get into a regular regimen of using our deep but sulfate-free facial cleansers, follow up with hyaluronic acid facial serum, and one of our moisturizers or body salves for hydration. We do have a range of face masks you can use to really remove dead surface skin cells and reveal younger, healthy skin. But our leading

product for all over your body, use our different kinds of yummy sugar scrubs such as Tropical Smoothie, Juicy Watermelon, Coconut, Cool Cucumber, and Honeysuckle & Gardenia. We often hear back from customers who tell us that with regular use, they effectively correct that common “chicken skin” issue that causes the appearance of patches of rough-feeling bumps.

Q. What keeps you passionate about helping people look beautiful?

A. My entire life makes it easy to stay passionate because for starters, I am the customer. I face the exact same problems countless other women (and men) do in trying to keep my skin looking healthy. Then I am surrounded by friends who constantly come to me asking for advice. And finally, we have a such dedicated fans of celebrities and average people who confide in me what they need.

So, there’s always something to challenge me in trying to come up with natural solutions and treatments that can help someone else look beautiful!

Q. What makes your products different from other beauty products?

A. We are considered more of an Indy brand with a cult following rather than something mainstream like say Kiels. And that certainly can have its mystique and advantages.

This allows us tighter control on the quality of our products and the capability of being more adaptable to the needs of our customers. We also make everything in our own factories, and we carefully source all our ingredients without being relying on middlemen.

Q. Tell us about your brand incubator and accelerator program?

A. In the course of running this business, I often get approached by people who want to start their own beauty brands. And since I already have the manufacturing and marketing infrastructure, I decided it could just be another way of helping others. So, I started “a build your own brand” program as a way of helping other women start their own beauty companies or help entrepreneurs perhaps

add beauty items to their existing brands. Not only can we provide the manufacturing infrastructure behind that, but I can teach them everything they need to know about wholesale, branding, marketing, and other aspects of how to navigate this business. It’s just another component of what we do but it really is my new passion. It comes from the same motivation I have of helping other women that got me started in the first place. And I am very excited to take this to the next level with masterclasses and group coaching.

Q. Are you working on any new events or projects?

A. I’m always on the lookout for some innovative ingredient that improves skin and well-being.

So regularly, I try to roll out a new product. This season I just introduced our Winter Balm Rescue, a natural vapor rub that may be applied to the neck, feet, chest.

Deeply inhaling the essential oils before bedtime or any time really can help alleviate symptoms of a cold or flu. It’s based on age old Asian medicinal traditions but with my own recipe of oils including grapeseed, organic coconut, yellow beeswax, peppermint, eucalyptus leaf, sweet basil, rosemary leaf, spearmint, lavender flower, ginger root, ravensara, cinnamon leaf, lemongrass, helichrysum, and Roman chamomile flower!

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. Our website is BeautyKitchen.

NET, we’re also on; Instagram @heathermarianna, @beautykitchenboutique, or @beautykitchenjunkie

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"We're really reaching far beyond just "fashion" because with Grounded People we want to foster fair, ethical, sustainable production and give back to the community."

MAX JUSTUS

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. I am Max Justus, the founder of Grounded People, which is an exciting new brand we are introducing to everyone with an initial collection of vegan footwear, which represents our dedication to a sustainable future. From the name itself, from the team behind the brand to our customers and collaborators, we’re building a community of people who feel a direct connection with the ground, the world, the planet and understand we’re all in this together. We’re really reaching far beyond just “fashion” because with Grounded People we want to foster fair, ethical, sustainable production and give back to the community.

Q. Let’s talk about “Grounded People” and the motivation behind it?

A. I’d have to say that a key aspect in my upbringing was an abiding respect for nature and the world in which we live. But it wasn’t until I was operating my graphic design company that I became truly aware of the dire straits we’re all in because of the rampant misuse of our natural resources. When I first realized the unimaginable amount of waste – and I don’t even mean old, discarded clothes but newly manufactured but unsold merchandise – that are thrown out annually, I knew I had to play a more active role in helping change things. I started the brand to provide an alternative to so-called “fast fashion” that relies on massive volume for quick turnovers with no regard to the negative consequences that result from this unchecked practice.

Q. What makes your collection different than others?

A. Aesthetically, it has a very distinct look that at first glance make our shoes seem anachronistic, like something out of old pictures that conjure a dream-like memory of summers of our youth. But look at them closer

and you will see design details that are very modern and can easily fit into today’s sensibilities. But because we only produce limitededition collections, we also want them to convey something deeper to consumers, that these aren’t mass produced by the thousands and are therefore more precious and personal.

Q. Tell us an accomplishment you see yourself achieving in the next 3 years?

A. We aren’t interested in just selling products. Our goals extend across various areas we hope to accomplish in short and long terms. First, we want more people to see the values of buying responsibly to understand that their purchases mean something on a bigger scale, that supporting companies that produce with a genuine regard for sustainability and fair trade isn’t just good for them but for humanity and the entire planet. Secondly, we want to disprove the notion that being environmentally responsible is not a feasible business, that in fact we can’t afford not to be environmentally responsible. Thirdly, we want to build a community among shoppers, creatives, and nonprofit organizations dedicated to advocating for the environment.

Q. What has been the biggest challenge you’ve had building your brand?

A. The main challenge in the beginning was to produce something with genuine sustainability from finding the right raw materials to a manufacturing facility that aligned with our goals. It took a while to find ethically sourced recycled cotton yarns, sustainability certified, Vulcanized natural latex rubber, and Bio latex (biodegradable non-toxic foam) materials. No animal by-products whatsoever. It was an even bigger challenge to find manufacturers that can dependably produce ethically but eventually we did find the world’s only 100% vegan factory in Brazil where our shoes

are crafted by artisans almost entirely by hand.

All these factors ensure the product renewal cycle, respect for nature and the planet’s well-being. And, just as importantly, we wanted to ensure that workers receive fair wages.

Q. How do you come up with the ideas to stay in fashion and trending?

A. We aren’t really interested in being trendy because that means the product has short-term appeal.

We purposely make our shoes with a sense of being timeless so that they are fashionable in whatever season and can easily fit into the personal styles of everyone.

Everything is created with a sense of lasting.

Q. What are some of the nonprofits and charities you work with?

A. At the moment, we’ve already connected with several including: KidSafe - Providing a Safe Haven for Children and Youth in Canada Trees for the Future - Helping Farmers Build Forest Gardens in Africa One Tree Planted Rebuilding the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil RedRover – Supporting Animals in Crisis in California But we’re also finalizing partnerships with more organizations including a sustainable fashion initiative.

Q. Tell us more details about the “LACES” program and how you are involved?

A. We created the LACES (Learn to Achieve and Create Everlasting

Sustainability) initiative as a way of connecting our customers with worthy causes they already support or could benefit from learning about. We’re really excited about partnering with as many various nonprofits as possible. Through our program, customer have the option of purchasing additional laces for their Grounded People sneakers.

These will be color-coded laces that correspond to these specific philanthropic organizations that allow shoppers to demonstrate their support. In turn we allocate sales of these laces as a direct donation to those charities. We aim to generate both financial support and spreading awareness for those organizations.

Q. Are you working on any new events or projects?

A. Right now, we’re really focused on getting the word out on the shoes and our goals.

Our dedication to seeking out innovative ways we can come up with to lessen society’s carbon footprint is ongoing. But we’re also already planning how to extend our reach in collaborations with charities as well as independent designers and creatives. We hope to soon be able to offer other limited-edition collections from T shirts to other garments that will make sustainability and social responsibility a true way of life.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. They can follow me at Website: GroundedPeople.com Twitter: @GroundedPeople Instagram: @grounded.people

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"Resiliency. This pandemic has taught us a lot about what we are capable of."

DELON OM

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. The pleasure is all mine. My name is Delon Om. I’m a singer/ songwriter from Toronto who has worked with some very iconic Canadian acts. Currently, I’m taking the time to celebrate two nominations at the 2021 Canadian Latin Awards with my musical partner, BenAnthony LaVoz. Q. What made you want to pursue a career in the music industry?

A. Wow, that’s a loaded question.

I was a contestant on Canadian Idol back in 2009 and loved the experience so much. I made top 50 and then I joined a group with my cousin, StarChildX, and we were immediately signed to Sony and Ultra Records. After that, I pursued a solo career, and it has been nothing short of remarkable.

Q. Who are your top 5 music influencer of all time?

A. That would have to be: Bruno Mars, Sam Smith, The Weekend, Drake and Tory Lanez. Each of these guys push the envelope and have played a pivotal role in my musical career, helping me develop my look and my sound.

Q. Let’s talk about your single “What We Go Do Now” and

the motivation behind the song?

A. That song was number 1 in Jamaica for 6 weeks in 2017. I was invited to perform at the 16th Annual Caribbean Awards and met some pretty heavy hitters there.

It was an absolute dream come true. I got to perform with Junonominated artist Trinity Chris.

Q. Describe what your creative process is like when you write new music?

A. I try to think about what voices are not being heard and try to breathe their life into words.

Usually, I start with piano or guitar licks and this is followed by lots of reflection and what message I want to share with the world. It’s a very spiritual and experience and sometimes the words just come to me spontaneously.

Q. What is the most surprising fact you’ve learned about yourself this year?

A. Resiliency. This pandemic has taught us a lot about what we are capable of. I’ve learned to appreciate humanity. This pandemic exposed us to antiBlack racism, anti-Asian racism, xenophobia and overall fear and distrust. That being said, we also saw glimpses of humanity through the arts, and I learned to embrace it.

Q. Tell us one of your most memorable achievements you’ve had so far in your career?

A. That would definitely be the 2 nominations for the 2021 Canadian Latin Awards with the inimitable BenAnthony LaVoz. It’s very special because they don’t usually nominated English- speaking artists for these awards – it’s somewhat unprecedented in that regard.

Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects?

A. Absolutely, I’m releasing my solo album in February. It’s called “Theatre of Cruelty” and will be my best work yet, outlining the cruelty I’ve faced – as a son, brother, lover, a racialized minority, etc. Cruelty has followed me all of my life and I wanted to record these experiences.

Q. How was your experience being on “Canadian Idol”?

A. It was heartbreaking and exhilarating – heartbreaking because it did come off as very contrived and “staged” whereas it was exhilarating because it provided me with the Launchpad, I needed to dive deeper into the music industry, giving me the confidence, I needed.

Q. Tell the readers where they can follow you?

A. I am on all major streaming platforms and social media sites.

You can find me at @Delon_om

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"I always saw the world as a grand, exciting place. I feel like every experience and every person I meet has something to teach me."

JULIE

MORGENSTERN

Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

A. My name is Julie Morgenstern and I’m an organization and productivity expert, New York Times best-selling author, and speaker. I pioneered the concept of Time Leadership, a set of strategies that enable individuals, teams, and organizations to bring out peak performance in themselves and others. For over 25 years, I have been helping people around the world tame the chaos in their space and time, so they make their unique contribution.

Q. How was your experience being in the “Be You” book?

A. It was a delight working with Amy Newmark - it was easy, it was clear, it was inspiring...and I loved the passion that she brought to the project. I felt very honored to be a part of it.

Q. Who or what has motivated you to be the woman you are today?

A. From a young age I always saw the world as a grand, exciting place. I feel like every experience and every person I meet has something to teach me. I see myself as a student of life. I’m constantly trying to expand my knowledge, my understanding of the world, and my connections to people.

Q. Can you tell us one of your favorite authors and books that inspired you in your life?

A. Throughout my life different books and authors have inspired me. In the self-help space, the

author who inspired me the most was Barbara Sher, who recently passed on. I read every one of her books when I was coming into my own as a young adult and I loved how well she wrote with relevant and relatable insights that are very empathic and practical. Her writing impacted my style today and how I work with others to impact their lives. A couple of my favorite books of hers are “I could be anything if only I knew what it was”, and “It’s only too late if you don’t start now”.

Q. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

A. I believe we are at a moment in life where there is truly an opportunity to reinvent the workplace, so people are able to thrive professionally and personally in equal measure and not have to sacrifice one for the other.

What I most hope over the next 5 years is for my programs and content to be used by and integrated by every company around the world so that people can achieve their goals and dreams both personally and professionally.

Q. What advice can you give to the next generation of female leaders?

A. What I love about watching this generation

of female leaders is that they are recognizing the importance of supporting each other and creating a space in every opportunity that has as much room for female voices and values and insights as it does for male voices.

One of the most fascinating studies I’ve read about the difference between male and female decision making said that when under stress men make quick decisions focused on the goal first and then look at the impact on people second. Women on the other hand focus on how the decision will impact people and then focus on the goal. This can make it appear that men are better at decision making when in fact that is not the case.

It’s important for women to recognize this difference and look at it as a strength. We need both to make positive impacts on the people in our companies and communities.

Both are important, both are good, both are needed.

Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects?

A. I’m working with the biggest companies in the world helping them create a culture of productivity, innovation, and wellness. Contact us here to get on our 2022 calendar which is booking up fast: https://www. juliemorgenstern.com/contact Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. Follow for more: • LinkedIn: https:// www.linkedin.com/in/ juliemorgenstern/ • Instagram: https:// www.instagram.com/ juliemorgenstern/ • YouTube: https://www. youtube.com/channel/ cgkAocIK5Bu2m4MDPmW4w/ featured Speaking inquiries and workshops: https://www. juliemorgenstern.com/speaking Books: https://www. juliemorgenstern.com/books

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ABRA Took Over Scope Miami Beach with An Exclusive Live Performance

by Masego Featuring Devin Williams earning, buying, selling and trading in cryptocurrencies, in one single place. Their vision is an open, global financial system that is easily accessible to everyone. Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/abra_ global/ Website: https://www.abra.com

On Friday, December 3rd, ABRA cryptocurrency platform headlined the SCOPE Miami Art Exhibit with crypto and NFT focused panels followed by an energized Friday night party to comprise their “Celebration Of The Intersection of Art & The Blockchain” Activation Series. The 500+ person party, which featured a performance

by MASEGO with special guest Devin Williams, was held at SCOPE’s New Contemporary NFT focused exhibit space, highlighted by the mister E installation. The event kicked off with sounds by

Friday night’s ABRA party featured drinks by Grey Goose, High West Distillery and COASTAL Spritz premium canned wine spritzers, with partners NFT Now, SuperRare, ThankYouX, YellowHeart, Art House and The Future Party. Additional partners included Pioneer DJ, ADE, Cookie Pop OREO and Secret Walls.

Ricks, followed by dynamic female DJ duo Angel + Dren.

ABRA is a cryptocurrency wallet that allows users to buy, sell and hold 25 cryptocurrencies and 50 fiat currencies in one place. It supports some of the most popular cryptocurrency assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, Litecoin, Stellar and more. ABRA is on a mission to create a simple and honest platform to enable millions of crypto holders to maximize the potential of their crypto assets.

They operate an easy-to-use app that allows users to access interest-

Notable industry and influencer guests filled the room, such as Model Marta Pozzan and Giuseppe Giofrè, Lil Fresh Sam, Nastassja, Kodak Lewis, Kye West, Justin Crayton, Dash Williams, Darius Ricks, Sukie S, Yasmine Smith, Ming Bey, Xavier Banks, Nefatari Cooper, Stephanie Acosta, Giselle Liotta, Ali Lasky, Ale Wilson, Ben Wilson, Oshoke Umolo, Raj Ade, Ballers producer Joey Krutel, and many more attended

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the music, art and crypto focused celebration leading into the Friday night of Art Basel weekend, closing out the celebratory filled week.

The daytime crypto and NFT focused panels led by ABRA on Friday, December 3rd, included Money Talks w/ Abra CEO Bill Barhydt Ft. artist Mister E, Conversations with Jimi Zendrix, Creative Director at Secret Walls, and Nick Rose, CEO of Ethernity, and Adrian Baschuk, CNBC Crypto Trader, as well as NFT NOW Presents ThankYouX and SuperRare in Conversation, “Moderated by Matt Medved,” and Art House Presents The Physical Meets Digital Future of NFTS.

MISTER E INSTALLATION @SCOPE PRESENTED BY ABRA Featured all week at SCOPE ART SHOW and highlighted during the event was the installation by Mister E, and was THE sought after activation at the exhibit space. https://scope-art.com/ show/miami-beach-2021/ programming/#mister-einstallation-atrium Contemporary artist mister e, known globally for his iconic colorful interpretation of the US $100 bill, “Benny Jr.” and the phrase “Money

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Isn’t Real” returned once again to the SCOPE ART FAIR for its 20th anniversary with another immersive installation that take patrons on a journey to another universe. “100” is more than just a number to mister e.

“100 is authentic, 100 is whole, 100 is the truth, 100 is real.” 100 was the first installation to combine the physical and digital world, allowing the viewers to physically walk into an NFT. 100 will be mister e’s debut NFT release and was Made possible

by ABRA. Art Basel would not be complete without stacked music performances by top artists. Lizzo performed at the AMEX part at The Edition on Saturday, December 4th while Cardi B. threw it down at Strawberry Moon at Good Time Hotel. Steve Aoki with artist Alec Monopoly, Marshmello, Martin Garrix and more headlined LIV nightclub all week at Fountainbleu, with Meek Mill and Lil Tunechi closing out LIV on December 5th. Kid Cudi headlined the December 1st party at the Faena Dome, Migos live at ELEVEN

the following night, and of course MASEGO at the ABRA party at SCOPE. With the lifting of post-pandemic shut downs (despite all Covid-19 protocols being adhered to throughout the festival week), art enthusiasts, artists, entertainment industry, influencers, celebrities, models, fashion designers, music artists, collectors, the crypto and NFT world were ready to get back into the magic and hustle of a bustling Art Basel.

GET THAT GLOW WWW.PRETTYINPINKSTONINC.

Photographer: Gudrun Gabriel Stylist: Vivian Dinkins-Stith Make-up Artist: Yolanda Marshall Hair: Lisa Newton, Hair Game