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CHERYL MAGAZINE

A lifestyle and women’s empowerment publication Editor-in-Chief | Dr. Cheryl Polote Williamson Cover Director & Managing Editor | Traci Henderson Smith Contributing Features Editor | Siobhan Davenport Contributing Editor | Charmaine Roots Castillo Contributing Editor | Dr. Michelle Kindred Contributing Editor | Tess Alexandria Financial Editor | Roni M. Benjamin

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Cheryl Magazine a lifestyle and women’s empowerment publication, is a Cheryl Polote Williamson, LLC (CPW) quarterly produced by Williamson Media Group, LLC (WMG) 6101 Long Prairie Road, Box 744 #269, Flower Mound, TX 75028. Periodicals postage paid at Flower Mound, TX and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send changes of address to Cheryl Magazine 6101 Long Prairie Road, Box 744 #269, Flower Mound, TX 75028. Subscribers, allow 4-6 weeks for change of address to become effective. Subscriptions ordered are non-cancellable and non-refundable unless otherwise promoted. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. All rights in letters sent to Cheryl Magazine will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and to comment editorially. Requests for permission to reprint should be sent to the Permissions and Reprints Department by emailing info@cherylmagazine.com and placing “Request for permission to reprint” in the subject line. The title Cheryl Magazine is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Contents copyright © 2023 by Williamson Media Group, LLC. All rights reserved. Nothing can be reprinted in whole or in part without express written permission from the publisher. Printed in the U.S.A.

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FROM THE DESK OF CHERYL POLOTE WILLIAMSON

pring is here, and with it, the newness of life and the chance to begin again. It is typically the designated time of year to shout, ‘out with the old and in with the new!’ This time, however, I find myself with a different frame of thought. I have decided I won't waste my time, resources, or energy sorting through personal or business relationships, people, tables, or priorities. I’m just going to move differently. I’m going to elevate ME. I will raise the standard in my mind, decisions, operations, support, and acquaintances. I will rise so high, moving to a realm where the air is so rare, a person must equip themselves to breathe it. I will do such work on ME and stay focused on better ways to maneuver that the necessity of who and what remains attached to my life will become apparent, and the rest will automatically fall away. Mindset matters and this is the winner’s mindset. It is the mindset you also should adopt. If you do, and I hope you do, you also will be unstoppable. Speaking of UNSTOPPABLE, in this issue of Cheryl Magazine we celebrate another incredible year of doing what many doubted. By now, you know that I don’t take “No” very well. If "will find a way" was a person, I’m that girl. In the age of technological trailblazing and digital downloads, we placed a refreshing twist on an old way of doing things and have delivered pure magic in print for the past two years. We found our niche. We found our audience. We remain focused on and dedicated to our lane. You trusted us to bring you excellence in quality and content, and we delivered! Thank you to all our subscribers, purchasers, contributors, supporters, and staff. None of what we have accomplished would be possible without you. We pray that what you've witnessed throughout our pages has been, in some way, motivation and encouragement to you. As we kick off another powerful season of Cheryl Magazine, it gives me great honor that my sister and friend joined us for this anniversary edition. Prepare for the Tabitha Takeover. It's a celebration! Additionally, we look ahead to a blessed 2023- 2024, highlighting the accomplishments of need-to-know unsung women who, without a doubt, make this world of ours go around. We are committed to serving you and will keep bringing you empowerment and connections, information and resources, and the best in Inspiration for the Everyday Woman. Love,

Cheryl P. 5 Cheryl MAGAZINE

TAKE It's the TABITHA

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OVER Happy Anniversary Cheryl Magazine

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE Family, Community, Human Interest: Help, Hope, and Legacy

THE LIGHT WITHIN Two Perspectives: A Married and Single Woman's View

SPRING 2023 | ISSUE #14

CONTENTS

36 56

LIVING AND THRIVING DESPITE OF Maria Flowers

WOMEN OF INFLUENCE Cheryl Magazine 2023 Honorees

AUTHOR'S CORNER Featuring Part Three of Short Story, "Not on My Watch"

COVER STORY: Tabitha Brown

Exactly Where You're Supposed to Be

LIFESTYLE

Celebrate LIFE With Family, Good Food, and Fun!

STYLE MATTERS Defining Your Personal Style

SPECIAL EXCERPT FROM Cooking From the Spirit by Tabitha Brown

Kim Alexis Newton Permission To Pause

Katrina Pennie Pitre Celebrating Thirty Years as President and CEO of Skyline Ranch

BUSINESS 72 & FINANCE 76 Get insight that will help strengthen and empower your life and business! P. 8 Cheryl MAGAZINE

64 Angela McCoy Everything Comes Full Circle

TRAVEL & LEISURE Three Reasons Traveling Is the Key to Positive Vibes

BUSINESS SENSE & SENSIBILITY Business Sense Makes Business Cents THE LIST: Cheryl's Favorite Business Resources

IN EVERY ISSUE We THRIVE! Motivation, Inspiration, Action Plans, and POWER

Cheryl Polote Williamson

with Tess Alexandria Get Your Hopes Up!

with Dr. Michelle Kindred Safeguarding Your Emotional Health

What Women Should Know with Daylon Goff, President JET | Painting Your Own Relationship Canvas

with Charmaine Roots Castillo HEALTH with Dr. Janie Lacy We're Expecting! Five Ways To Learn How To Love Yourself

A Letter From the Editor in Chief

The Gentleman's Voice:

Girl Be Natural: A Candid Conversation With TikTok Sensation ShantaQuilette

Daddy Issues

Foxxy Wizdom

Aging Well

FOCUS ON MENTAL

with Dr. Sonya D. Marks

with Roni M. Benjamin New Year. New Dreams. New Chances.

Money Talk

#GIRLPOWER

Alena Analeigh McQuarter

STEM Is My Superpower

here’s still something out there waiting for us, but in order for us to get it, we’ve gotta keep going.”

Happy Anniversary from Tabitha

- TABITHA

COVER SHOOT:

Photographer: Corey Guevarra Makeup Artist: Brandie Naeemah King Hair Stylist: Shaylin Jones Clothing Stylist: Taylor Dupriece

HEALTH & BEAUTY Look Well. Heal Well. Feel Well. Live Well!

RECIPE 22 DONNA'S Oh Me Oh My, Sweet Potato Pie DONNA: 24 FINDING Inspiration Behind the Brand P. 9 Cheryl MAGAZINE

Hello There! Believer Wife Mother

Vegan Foodie and Plant-Based

Actress

Film Writer Social Media Personality Influencer

Million Followers

Two-Time New York Times Bestselling Author Three-Time NAACP Image Award Winner Two-Time Children’s Emmy Award-Nominated Co-Creator and Host of CEO of Healthy Haircare Line, Donna's Recipe Multi-Category Product Lines Creator as a Partner With Target Corporation Signature Spice Creator for McCormick America's Mom and Favorite Auntie

Tabitha Brown

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COVER STORY

Tabitha Brown Exactly Where You're Supposed to Be

by Traci Henderson Smith

s I marveled at the creation that is Tabitha Brown and spoke a simple truth—she is truly one of the most adored names mentioned today, she expressed her sincerest gratitude for being seen as such and shared with Cheryl Magazine the journey of going from sitting in her car on live eating a sandwich, to the vegan lifestyle personality heard around the world. “First of all, thank you for thinking of me that way,” she says. “It’s a blessing to be adored. But, you know, it came from true consistency and being obedient to what God told me to do. Honey, because He was the one that told me to start doing videos. I did not want to do it. I was very hesitant. Very scared because I also wasn't living a very free life for a long time. I wasn't being the true me for a very long time. So, trying to walk this life that I promised God I would walk by giving my life to Him and completely taking off the layers I had put on was scary, and I made a promise. I said, ‘Okay, every day, I gotta be consistent. I gotta try to take these layers off and get to the true me God created me to be.’ And I just did it every day. I cooked every day in my kitchen. I would go live consistently, like five o'clock back when I used to do my live shows on Facebook. Whenever I would find vegan options, I would just share. Then my first video went viral on December 30th of 2017—the TTLA sandwich video. My life has never been the same since that video. It blows my mind every day, you know. Here we are, five years later, and God is still blessing me and opening doors. And honey, I'm just walking in them. Still being very obedient. Obedience is absolutely how I've come to be this person now." Brown has spoken candidly about not living authentically and how friends and colleagues didn’t know the real her. From masking her accent to wearing straight hair, from feeling forced to be a size two to molding herself into what she thought everyone wanted to see and hear,

she was not being true to herself. She spent years in Hollywood pursuing acting and stand-up comedy with little success while doing “all the things.” Then one day, she decided she was enough just the way she was—as God created her. “I'm enough, and it's okay,” she once stated in an interview with Good Housekeeping. “I'm going to be who I am,” she said. “I decided to go with freedom.” Going with freedom meant returning to the confidence of the little girl who first spoke life into this path—the one who always knew that she had what it took to succeed and live a life in the limelight, the one who always knew she was enough just the way she was. Now, a social media phenom, vegan foodie and plant-based advocate, actress and film writer, an influencer with 12 million followers, a two-time New York Times bestselling author, three-time NAACP Image Award winner, the co-creator and host of a two-time Children’s Emmy-Nominated television show, CEO of a healthy haircare line partnered with Ulta Beauty, a multi-category product lines creator as a partner with Target Corporation, a signature spice creator for McCormick, and dubbed America’s mom and favorite auntie; through faith, commitment, and obedience, Brown is living the life she once envisioned. Being a small-town country girl from Eden, North Carolina, a small-town locale, did not equate to smalltime thinking for Brown, who felt free as a young girl to dream big and believe for the seemingly outlandish. From where she sat, growing up in even smaller Stoneville, North Carolina, on the outskirts of Eden, the impossible felt quite possible. “I’m going to be famous!” she told her father repeatedly. “Did I always know that I’d make it? Yes! I didn’t know what the “it” would look like, but I knew I was going to make “it” in some form or fashion. You know, you can talk to my husband and ask him. I literally have always felt it. P. 1 1 Cheryl MAGAZINE

"Did you always know that you'd make it?"

"Yes! I didn't know what the "it" would look like, but I knew I was going to make "it" in some form or fashion."

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My daddy—I was just talking to him the other day--you know he has all these letters from me and old videos from when I was a kid. I was very consistent back then in speaking and saying, ‘I’m gonna be famous one day. I’m going to be rich and famous one day.’ Those were my words as a little girl. ‘I’m going to be a Hollywood star.’ It’s always been inside of me. It’s always been my desire. I had no idea it would be what it is, and I had no idea that this journey, God, would take me on, but God, I’m so glad He did. I’m so glad it was more than what I could have imagined. But absolutely, I’ve always known it was coming. I’m grateful and excited about the “it” being different than what I imagined. It’s just so much more fun when you just expect the unexpected.” Ironically, breaking the rules, choosing freedom, and placing her faith and authenticity on display, were the catalyst to bring Brown the success that previously eluded her. The funny part is that success has also come by doing the one thing she was least likely to do—cook! Coming up, Brown never had the desire to cook. Her mother, grandmother, and aunts were all great cooks, but Brown never took an interest. For one, she was a tomboy and wanted to play outside. Two, Brown was deeply self-assured of her impending fame. According to her plans, cooking was a skill she would not need. “I grew up having an amazing childhood. My mama and my daddy were together until I was in ninth grade. I grew up in the church with my granny, Pentecostal, okay, until my parents got saved when I was in the sixth grade. Then we went to the Baptist church,” she laughs. “But my roots are definitely in the church. I was a very churchy little girl, but I was very much so a tomboy. I wanted to be in nobody’s house cooking, cleaning—none of those southern women things. I didn’t want any parts of that. I used to always tell my daddy, ‘I don’t need to know how to cook, and I don’t need to know how to clean because when I grow up, I’m going to be rich, and I’m going to have a chef. I’m going to have maids.’ I used to say all this stuff when I was a kid. I did not know I was going to grow up and be the one cooking and the one cleaning, okay? I always wanted to act; ever since I was a little girl, about five or six years old, watching the Cosby Show. I wanted to be like Rudy, so I started doing plays as a little girl, whether at school, church, or community theater. I was in drama, chorus, and glee club in high school. I was in the band; I played the flute. I’ve always been very artsy. In high school, I started to make clothes. I was very much so into fashion. I studied fashion in college for one semester before I quit and was like, 'Nah, I gotta pursue my acting full-time—when I become famous, then I’ll have my own clothing line.' And, of course, you see how God works. Honey, if I speak it, it comes to pass." The road to fame was not an easy one. Brown met with many obstacles; L.A. wasn’t chiefly kind, and she could

not seem to get her footing in Hollywood. She worked multiple jobs between auditions, eventually having little to no time for auditions. There was a financial strain, then moving back home for a respite, staying longer than planned, and returning to L.A. five years later with a husband and a toddler to pursue her dreams a second time. This round, the plan was to try her hand at comedy as an access point to television. Brown has said that early in life, she recognized she had a gift for humor and making people laugh, one she got from her dad and uncles. However, the pressures of L.A. took their toll once again. Between the city's expenses, sticking with jobs because she needed the money although they treated her poorly, and the pain of losing her mom in 2007, it would be more than ten years before Brown hit a comedy stage. That stage proved to be therapeutic, as Brown had also begun dealing with depression. In the year following her comedy debut, 2016, Brown became ill and paused her auditioning and stand-up gigs. “I wasn't able to do my acting. I was depressed. I had anxiety,” she said in an Entertainment Tonight interview. “I was sick for a year and seven months,” she told Cheryl Magazine. Brown endured depression, chronic head and neck pain, and anxiety before discovering the difference veganism made in her life. She battled an autoimmune dysfunction that caused her body to attack itself, and doctors could not figure out the problem. She confesses she told God, “If you heal me, I'll do whatever you ask, please. Just heal me.” Her daughter Choyce introduced her to the documentary, What the Health, released in 2017. She did a 30-day vegan challenge, and the headache she’d had every day for a year and seven months disappeared after ten days. Who knew this experience would place her exactly where she needed to be on her journey to the fame she’d often claimed? “I was like, 'Ooh honey,'” she reflects. ‘I am definitely onto something.' "I became famous for it because, again, of obedience. God came to me in a dream. He showed me myself in a dream doing a show. I didn’t know what the show was, but I woke up and prayed, ‘God, reveal that to me.’ And I heard a voice that said, ‘Start doing videos.’ I was like, ‘Start doing videos? Lord, I don’t know about that.’ And so, over time, I started doing videos. In the beginning just telling kind of the same jokes I used to tell on stage as a comedian. After I went vegan, the day I decided that I’m not going to just do a challenge, I’m actually going to be vegan like this is going to be my life, that same voice whispered in my ear and said, ‘Now tell people what you’re eating in your videos.’” Becoming vegan not only saved Brown’s life, but it also changed her life. After she healed, she went back to auditioning and acting, landing roles in independent films. She also became an Uber driver with the sole objective of getting discovered and hoping to meet P. 1 3 Cheryl MAGAZINE

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someone who could offer her a television role. Very assured, Brown proclaimed she was 'going to get discovered in her car.' What she meant was by a director or producer. ENTER the miracle TTLA! Between Uber rides, Brown stopped at Whole Foods for lunch. Challenged with the assignment to post videos regularly and share with viewers what she eats and committed to obedience to that charge, Brown decided to record and post a review of the tempeh bacon, tomato, lettuce, and avocado sandwich—the vegan version of a BLT. Brown's review went viral, and the rest is history. After more than a decade of chasing her dreams, she became an “overnight” success. Whole Foods appointed Brown as their new ambassador, and soon after, she began collaborating with vegan companies, hosting vegan festivals, and more. Brown is on record saying she made more money that year than in her fourteen years living in Los Angeles. Millions began tuning in daily to see what “Tab” was cooking, eating, and sharing. Now, here we are, years later, from the viral “sandwich in the car” video that sparked a multimillion-dollar multi-project environment. One of the most significantly publicized partnerships contributing to Brown’s whirlwind of success is the multicategory product line creator partnership with Target Corporation. “Target approached me. We’d been working together for years. Before the big line, I was a Target Family Influencer. I would do organic content with Target products. Most times, people didn’t even realize it because I don’t like doing anything that feels like an ad. I like just doing true, real content, and it has to be authentic to me. That was one of the reasons I fell in love with Target because they allowed me to do that and never changed me. So when they approached me to say, you know what, let’s do something bigger, I was like, honey, all ears! What'chall wanna do? And the huge partnership became and was, and still is, one of the biggest blessings of my life. And, I’m just so grateful for that, you know. Target is huge, and it’s known worldwide. To not only see me, but never ever ask me to change is all you want in this industry from a partner. I feel blessed, and when I walk into Target stores and see myself and see my family,” she sighs with gratitude. “There’s no greater feeling. I’m just grateful.” Brown shares that above all success, family is her foundation; her childhood and how she grew up is what shaped her. Her hometown of Eden, North Carolina (Stoneville) is her roots. What and where she comes from, the lessons and the family and love birthed from that are what means the most to her. “Family is my foundation. I love my daddy. I love my husband and my children. I love being a mom. Family is everything. I have an amazing family, a big family. In my immediate family, my mama and daddy had just me and

my sister, Tasha. But my daddy is one of twelve though, so I had a bunch of cousins. Every Sunday felt like a family reunion at my grandma’s house. The Thomas family, honey, is huge. On my mom’s side, it was a little bit smaller but still very much so close. I’m still very close with my family, and family is foundation for me. It’s one of the things I love the most. You know. Just love, love, love family.” What’s on the horizon for Tabitha Brown is purely more greatness! She will continue working with Target, and she has more fun collections coming out summer of 2023. She is working on another book, her new journal is now available, and she is in prayer about a talk show and if it is a direction God wants her to go. She is excited about another scripted series she's developing. She's in Season 3 shooting of the two-time Children’s EmmyNominated Tab Time, delighted to bring children more episodes. And we know she’s constantly in the kitchen cooking, living life, and sharing it with the world. Tabitha Brown is simply phenomenal. She is a breath of fresh air and total inspiration. It makes you wonder what it must take to be her and how she found the strength and courage to overcome the obstacles. “What it takes to be me is being true, being authentic—at all times, never wavering, and being obedient. And the obstacles—I think I have been my biggest obstacle, right? Over the years, because I fought against just being me for so long, I was always trying to create this person I thought I needed to be to fit in. But honey, THANK GOD, I got over that. Thank God for deliverance. But now, I’m completely free. I’m completely me."

can only say to everyone that may be reading this, wherever you are right now, you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. Even if it feels like you’re doing nothing, something is happening inside of you—all around you. You just gotta keep going to figure out what’s going to be revealed later. We never can see it when we’re in the middle of it, but just keep going. Hold on. God is always working on something in our life. Even when we feel stuck and even when we can’t see it. There’s still something out there waiting for us, but in order for us to get it, we’ve gotta keep going.” – Tabitha Brown

Enjoy more from my interview with Tabitha Brown throughout this issue as she shares backstories on some of her favorite products. It’s the TABITHA TAKEOVER! Visit iamtabithabrown.com for her event schedule to catch Tab in a city near you.

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DADDY ISSUES with Tess Alexandria

Get Your Hopes Up!

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have never been one to label myself as a pessimist. If anything, I refer to myself as a realist. I have no problem thinking positively, but a faint voice always warns me not to become overly excited or expectant. If I had to attribute this feeling to anything, it would be that life sometimes gets very real. To have, by thirty, endured some pretty challenging transitions in my life--losing my maternal grandmother at the age of twelve, experiencing my dad in and out of jail throughout my high school years, my apartment in college burning down, and me losing almost everything, losing my dad unexpectedly right after my college graduation, and living my mid-tolate twenties in an unhealthy relationship--I'd say the feeling had basis. While I have healed significantly from the situations that once plagued me, the memories serve as a cautionary tale. Thankfully these memories aren’t on constant replay in my mind anymore, but I do believe my subconscious is ever aware of them, which in turn, causes me to have a slightly guarded disposition in life. Lately, this awareness has heightened. Initially, I didn’t understand why. When a worrisome thought entered my mind, I replaced it with a prayer or affirmation. Then it dawned on me that for the last half of 2022, I found myself experiencing another big transition. It must have been triggering. In August, I became hyper-focused on achieving my short-term career goals. Determined to advance, I networked with expert professionals in my field and attended national conferences where I connected with some inspiring and supportive colleagues. I also sought leadership opportunities outside my role and submitted my information for positions I wasn’t even sure for which I qualified. This cycle of consistency eventually paid off as God blessed me with what I was asking for career-wise. As I reflect on the latter part of the year, I can recall the times I felt skeptical. There the voice was again. “Don’t get your hopes up too much. Be prepared to pivot into a different career

path altogether.” I'm not saying there’s anything wrong with a Plan B, but those thoughts weren’t backup plan thoughts. They were more 'remember how life has stung you before' thoughts. I had put guards up just in case something contrary was on the horizon. If I’m being honest, this is a hard truth to share about myself. I don’t particularly like that I don’t feel entirely safe enough to always believe the best. I would much rather live with an optimistic outlook. While I didn’t write my desire for increased optimism on my list of goals for 2023, I still knew I wanted to work on this as much as I could. Funny enough, day four of my January devotional led with, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens and empowers me; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.” (Philippians 4:13 AMP). Timely is an understatement. I felt encouraged and was reminded that even though transitions bring challenges and uncertainty, I am not alone. God was able to get me through everything I have faced thus far, is here with me now in my current transition, and will be there in the future. I prefer my mind labor to rest in these thoughts, rather than my usual anxiety-ridden ones. I know training my mind to rest in expectation and confident peace will take practice, but I purpose to live life in anticipation this year. And for anyone identifying with my struggles, I leave you with some more words of wisdom from my devotional to reflect on when you need to feel empowered. 1.

“Never assume that where you’ve been or where you are is as good as it gets.”

2. “Don’t allow your mind to become a hindrance to the things you can accomplish in life.” 3.

“Go ahead and get your hopes up!”

Meyer, J. (2020). Overcoming the impossible. In Quiet times with God devotional: 365 daily inspirations (pp. 4–4). essay, Hodder & Stoughton.

Thank you for joining me again for Daddy Issues. Why the name? I aim to reverse the feeling women get every time we hear that phrase. There is a stigma attached to it. It’s often used as a weapon, with the intent to make us feel like we are the problem. Dispelling the misnomer includes providing new information on something that was named before its true nature was known. I’ll attempt to do that in each Cheryl Magazine issue as I address behaviors and characteristics that developed from our father’s lack of skill and ability to bond with, encourage, teach, or support us. To all the young girls and grown women, it was never your fault. The issue was his, and because of your daddy’s issue, you found yourself improperly navigating relationships. Let’s talk about it. For the record, Daddy Issues is an opinion column. I’m not a clinical professional or expert on the subject; I’m just a girl who needed her daddy. If you’d like to connect, follow me on IG: @tessalexandria_ or Facebook: Tess Alexandria. If you have questions or a topic you’d like to discuss, email me at tess@cherylmagazine.com. P. 1 7 Cheryl MAGAZINE

P e r m i s s i o n To Pa u s e F i b e r A rt i s t

by Kimberly Noel Sweet

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ith generations of quilters on both sides of her family, you could say the craft is in Kim Alexis Newton’s DNA. A family heirloom quilt, generations old, is among her most prized possessions. Newton learned the craft herself one summer at her grandmother’s side, joining life lessons and hand stitches until a work of art and heart emerged. What she does now is a beautiful integration of past and present, passion and vision. Wrapped in a family legacy, Newton is a successful fiber artist, purveyor of gift quilts, and creator of a movement that helps women dream. Born in San Francisco into a family of creatives, Newton says she has “had art around me all of my life.” Her mother weaved sketching and creating into everyday life. A relative, Brenda Joysmith, was a well-known painter whose iconic images of African American life were regularly featured on The Cosby Show. Newton added a new dimension to her artistic inheritance by majoring in accounting at Fisk University and earning an MBA from Vanderbilt University. “I wanted to integrate art and business, so I pursued Hallmark, which at the time had the second largest creative staff besides Disney, because I wanted to be in a creative environment.” Newton separates her work at Hallmark into three chapters. “First, all things marketing—multi-cultural marketing, product marketing, retail marketing,” which she explains included being the first manager of Mahogany, Hallmark’s African American division. Her second chapter framed her as a cross-functional leader. “I helped lead a transformation of how the business was run,” she said of the multibillion-dollar entity. “Enterprise leader chapter” is how Newton describes her third phase. “I led corporate strategy and operations planning, and then I did another transformation, a consumer experience transformation, everything that was Hallmark branded,” she said, adding that this work led to greater involvement in entertainment spaces. For twenty years, Newton enjoyed a professional meteoric rise, not challenging herself or tapping into her passion but going into what she calls autopilot. Despite her success, the feeling that she wasn’t meeting her full potential persisted. “I call this a ‘near death experience’ because, not in a literal sense, but if I had just kept going, it would have been the death of my dream.” Newton decided to “disrupt” her life and “explode” her network, intentionally surrounding herself with people who would help her think differently about her future. Newton also continued to ask God to send her more than just a signal, but to “make it painfully clear” what she should do. At a time when she was the company’s only female executive globally, and in the very week Newton had been named one of the top African Americans in corporate America, her CEO stepped down, and her role

was eliminated. Rather than shift into another role, “I didn’t question it. I said, ‘Okay God, here we go.'” Newton says her decision wasn’t to leave Hallmark but rather to leave corporate America and turn off the autopilot. She took six months off to rest, reflect, and reach out to other women in her same position, who she defined as “super ambitious, extremely overwhelmed, but honestly very unfulfilled.” Her research evolved into a process and a book she calls The Intentional Pause™ Project, aimed at empowering women to follow their dreams using the power of pause. She contends that women must give themselves permission to just stop and think, so they can move forward with intention and achieve their dreams. “I did research," says Newton. "Ninety-one percent of women are unapologetically ambitious but overwhelmed. Only thirty-six percent were following their dreams. Permission to pause was something we needed tools to figure out. That’s why I wrote a workbook.” Newton says women often can’t articulate their dreams because they simply don’t take the time to dream. “When we get older, we set goals," she says. "Dreams are not the same as goals. Goals are the things we think we should do. Dreams are the things we could do. How much time do we spend thinking about what we could do?” she continued. “I always tell people that an intentional pause is not a respite. It is time to strategize. It is actually really hard work.” Newton’s intentional pause message is best reflected in her own life. The woman who helped manage Hallmark’s multibillion-dollar business is nearly two years into her own venture. In the first year alone, she celebrated $1.2 million in sales. As a fiber artist, Newton has sold fifteen original fiber artworks. With a price range of $8,000$10,000, her work has found its way into the homes of celebrities (yes, Oprah!) and collectors alike. She was invited to have one of her works displayed at the NelsonAtkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, Missouri, as part of the African American Artists Collective. Newton is working to build a body of work so that she can soon have an exhibit of her own. She has also created a line of gift quilts that aren’t original works but mass-produced. That business was born from a request for 1,000 copies of one of her original designs. “I can’t make 1,000 quilts, but I can manufacture 1,000 quilts. I was a project manager, and that is what I did.” Newton serves as art director and has compiled a global team of designers to bring her visions to life. “You have to create a certain type of art that can be production ready,” she explains. She works P. 1 9 Cheryl MAGAZINE

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with designers in Paris, Australia, Germany, and the United States, to develop the pieces. “Everything is handcrafted, so while it is printed, all of the embroidery is hand guided.” Special editions have been curated for organizations like Delta Sigma Theta, The Links, Incorporated, Sigma Pi Phi, Sigma Gamma Rho, and Omega Psi Phi. As an artist, Newton is driven by the emotional response her quilts give their owners, whether they are original works or gift items. Their themes range from female empowerment to positive affirmations to inspiring and connecting people at a time when they might need it most—all kinds of people. Newton was surprised by the response of a white man studying one of her pieces related to the Black Lives Matter movement. “It’s great that you are standing here," he said to me, "because I can tell you that this quilt explains to me nothing I’ve heard yet.” His words reinforced what Newton already knows. The decision to walk away from a major corporation and take an “intentional pause” was well worth it. Our dreams and gifts are necessary for ourselves and other people. “My artwork helps people with emotional journeys. My gift quilts help me do that too. I can maneuver in a space where I do both.” Yes, she can.

Quilt entitled "BLUE GIRL MAGIC" designed by Kim Alexis Newton P. 2 1 Cheryl MAGAZINE

HAIR CARE

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oh me, oh my! Sweet Potato Pie Let's chat hair!

Whether you started your natural hair journey twentyplus years ago and rode the wave of the invention of the word "naturalista" or are new to the natural hair journey and still trying to figure out your texture number, you will agree on one thing: finding the right product is tough!

OH MY! Where do I begin? We are not here to overwhelm you, so the best place to start is with products that will help amplify the "LOC Method." The LOC Method (Leavein, Oil, Cream) helps your hair retain moisture using a water-based hair oil, and cream.

Step 1: Apply leave-in conditioner Donna's Recipe, Sweet Potato Pie Leave-In Conditioner, is designed to nourish your hair and scalp. Enjoy the aroma of sweet potato pie blended with the same nutrient-rich ingredients found in pie (sweet potatoes, cinnamon, vanilla).

Enter Ms. Donna! Tabitha Brown's line, Donna's Recipe, was formulated with every texture and skill level in mind. Who is Donna? Glad you asked. Donna is Tab's feisty, no-nonsense fro. One night while Tabitha was cooking live on Facebook, she looked at her hair and said, "My hair is growing straight at the top like Don King; they must be related! I'm gonna name her Donna!" And Donna was born. Who can relate? One moment the curls are poppin'. The next minute, they are clapping back at you. The delicate task of balancing moisture, definition, and shine can be daunting. We spend countless hours scouring the shelves for products not filled with ingredients you cannot pronounce, don't weigh your hair down or break the bank. How many of us have bought a product and are off to the next after one or two uses? Donna's Recipe is an all-natural, vegan-friendly haircare product; developed to encourage and stimulate hair growth. The promise: thicker, healthier, happier hair. And with less fuss, more bounce, and beautiful coils, we would say a happier you too!

Step 2: Apply oil The Sweet Potato Pie Extra Creamy Hair & Scalp Oil is an extra creamy, buttery texture of sweet potato extract, cinnamon, and vanilla. It helps to add nutrients to your hair and scalp while providing shine. Step 3: Apply cream After using Donna's Recipe, Sweet Potato Pie Hair Cream, get ready for touchable soft curls! This lightweight, non-greasy cream provides superior moisture penetration while adding definition to your curls.

Why Sweet potatoes?

Sweet potatoes are packed with Vitamin A and Omega-3 fatty acids. They help to add luster by nourishing the hair follicles and hair.

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Finding Donna:

Inspiration Behind the Brand “Donna’s Recipe is my haircare line for my hair, Donna, of course. It actually happened because I was in a car accident when I was in high school. I hurt my neck pretty badly. Over the years, it got worse because, you know, I was so young I probably went to physical therapy for a couple of months and was like, ‘I’m all right,’ not realizing I had dislodged my spine. And over the last thirty years now, the disc has chipped away at my spine and caused me to have spinal stenosis. So, the tip of my spine has deteriorated, and I have bone spurs there. I used to have very bad chronic pain. I still live with chronic pain, but it’s not as bad because I know how to manage it. I know my change of eating helped out with the inflammation and everything, but I used to, at a period of time, I had to sleep flat on my back for my neck. It would cause, like a baby, the hair on the back of my head would become thin. So when that happened, I was like, ‘Lord, I need something to help grow my hair back and get it back thick in that area.’ I had been trying to use all kinds of products, but nothing was really natural or vegan, and I was on this new journey of being vegan. I didn’t want to just have the food I put in my body, but you know, I wanted to also be conscious of what I was putting on my body and my skin. As you know, our skin is our largest organ. And so, I was like, ‘I wonder if I can put some stuff together and create my own oil to create my own hair product?’ So I started working on that in 2019 and did it for about a year trying to figure it out, and I was like, ‘Lord, I need help.’ And just, you know how God does honey, He sent help. My business partner’s name is Gina Woods. My husband coached her sons in basketball, so she and I had known each other for a few years. She came to me and said, ‘Girl, I got an idea that I wanna run by you.’ And she had the exact same idea of creating a haircare line with me. Donna’s Recipe was born that day when we had that meeting. She was like, ‘I even got the perfect name; you know you cook, and you already named her Donna. All we gotta do is, throw "recipe" on there—Donna’s Recipe. I was like, ‘Girl! That is the name,’ and Donna’s Recipe was born. We’ve vowed to make real products for our hair that won’t harm us and will only help us and have us have a beautiful experience. I think it’s something we all need to remember when putting products in our hair. We want great results. But we also don’t want to harm ourselves in the process.”

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AGING WELL

with Dr. Michelle Kindred

pring is a reminder of your ability to make all things new. No matter the prompting or purpose, spring is the perfect time to renew, reinvent, or rejuvenate yourself. As the frigid ground warms to the brightly shining sun, spring's first signals give way to re-birth. Figuratively speaking, spring is reminiscent to most that even after a tough season in life, love, and pursuit, something bigger, better, brighter, and more beautiful can bloom. Regardless of which season is your preferent, the first signs of spring can bring a sense of hope, transformation, and fresh feelings. The National Institute on Aging identifies many factors that affect healthy aging, some of which we control, such as exercise, diet, regular health screening, and awareness of mental and emotional health needs. Making changes in these areas can support our aging well for years to come. Whether reinventing a business, life’s expectations, or your look, a brighter you can be more vibrant and beautifully presented. To do so, springing into freshness should begin with your emotional renewal. Emotional health is an aspect of mental health that ties to physical health. Emotional health includes self-acceptance, self-esteem, resilience, and the management of strong emotions. According to the Berkeley Well-Being Institute and the author of What is Emotional Health? And How to Improve It?, in layman’s terms, emotional health is the ability to pick yourself up when life knocks you down. To assess your emotional health, you will need a working definition. To get started, ask yourself the following questions: 1.

Which emotions do you want to experience more?

2. Which emotions do you want to experience less?

Which do you struggle with most: changing your thoughts or your behaviors?

4. What aspects of your emotional health would you most like to improve and why? There are no right or wrong answers. It is the way you view yourself and how you are living a life of wellness. The questions only allow you to analyze and identify where you are, and then steer you toward your ideal emotional health. When your emotional health is in jeopardy, or you are having difficulty expressing your emotions, it is encouraged and recommended to pick up a book on the topic or seek help from a skilled counselor. References: Peterson, T. (2019, October 13). What is emotional health? And how to improve it? HealthyPlace.com

Dr. Michelle Kindred is a Professor of Education and Teaching Methods in Ph.D. programs helping scholars unveil their true potential and give back to the field of education. Her talents include curriculum development, collegial coaching - mentoring and supervision, and substantive editing and writing. She is the founder and owner of Cooper Kindred Ventures, LLC, which provides scholarships to graduate students entering the education and counseling fields, and Intentional Matters--practicing substantive editing, consulting, and life coaching. P. 2 5 Cheryl MAGAZINE

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Girl Be Natural

A Candid Conversation With TikTok Sensation ShantaQ by Angel Henderson I prepared for a fun interview with the hilarious comedian,writer,creator,actress,serial entrepreneur, and viral social media sensation, ShantaQuilette. Before we got started, however, I had a confession to make. "I have been stalking your social media, cracking up at all of your content," I told her. We laughed and got into the story of this incredible and creative wife and mom.

Angel: I’m super excited to get to know you and allow you to tell us all about yourself. SQ: Yes, I’m ShantaQuillette Develle Carter-Williams. I’m a wife, a mom, and just a lover of all things beautiful. I have a blended family of seven, which includes six girls and one boy, and I’m a grandmother of two amazing grandsons. As a kid, I was always trying to make people laugh. One of the great things I remember, and I still can’t find this teacher, and I can’t wait til I find her, but one of the things she used to do, she used to get a little nail and tap me on the head. This was about second grade, and she’d say, “Ms. Carter, umm you need to take your show

on the road, not my classroom.” I would love to show her how those words manifested in my life because I’ve always wanted to be a standup comedian. I am just here as a bright light to serve God and His people and do my best to bring people closer to Him. The best way I find to do that is [through] laughter. Angel: That is awesome! I will say you are definitely a bright light. Anybody having a bad day, if we could just send them to your page, I promise their day would brighten immediately! I LOVE what you're doing. Give us a little about where you started and the spark that got you started with content creation. P.2277 Cheryl Cheryl MAGAZINE MAGAZINE P.

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SQ: One day, my youngest daughter was on TikTok, and she asked if I wanted to do one with her, and I said what is TikTok? She said, “Well come on, do this video with me.” We do this little dance video, and I said, "What do you do with it?" She's like, “Oh, you just put it on, and then people watch it.” I do a few videos with her, and then I downloaded it [TikTok] to my phone and would just watch for a while and get inspired. I would get on there and talk about my nonprofit, and I told my daughter, "It looks like fifty people were watching." She said, “That's great!” One day I was coming back from therapy, and I was really depressed and in a bad place. I didn't know who I was, but one thing I could do was tell stories. So, I got on camera and started describing—and you probably saw the video—I started describing this strange man picking up my daughter from school every day. Angel: Mhmm. Oh wait, I did see that. I didn’t know it was you! (Laughter) SQ: I described everything that I was feeling. Like my hair was fragile, I had a mustache. I was out of shape. I felt like I looked like an old, beat-up man.

I sent that video and woke up to 12 million views across social media. Angel: Oh my goodness!

SQ: And at first I was scared because, you know, I was supposed to be at home sick (Laughter), so I'm like, they're going to be like, "If you can make videos, you can work!" Angel: Right, right! (Laughter) SQ: So, I’m like, what is viral? People were calling me across the country like, “Girl, I just saw you on Snoop, or I just saw you on here.” Then, my husband called and said, “Are you on Yahoo?” I said, "No, why would I be on Yahoo?" He said, “Go to yahoo.com.” I go to yahoo, and I'm on the front page. Angel: Are you serious?

SQ: …On the front page—Distraught Mom (Laughter) Thinks a Strange Man Is Picking Up Her Daughter, and It’s a Story You Won't Believe! People started calling me, and from there, I found the purpose that I always had. I say your talents and gifts always show up when you're a child. They've always been there. That is when I became authentically me.

SQ: I think the component of life and death (after my health scare) and seeing how quickly things can change. We decided we're gonna enjoy every moment with each other, because we know any day, any of us can go. We wanna create experiences that last through generations. We wanna leave a legacy of voice. My legacy is my voice.

Angel: I love it!

Angel: How does what you do inspire them to create?

SQ: When I started the videos, nobody wanted to do them with me. My husband would say, “What are you doing?!” And my first big brand deal was with Buffalo Wild Wings, and when my husband saw that check, he said, “How do I hang up the lights? You need somebody to put your eyelashes on? You want me to put your clothes on for you? You got an executive producer?” (Laughter) And now everybody is a part of my TikTok. Nobody ever says no now because you just feel so good! I never, in this life, thought this would happen. But I would always pray, God, make my name visible, so I can reach the people that need to be served. I wrote that prayer on Facebook three or four days before I did that video, and four days later, it went viral. Angel: Well, I saw it, and I was cracking up. It was the funniest thing ever. SQ: That's just me living unapologetically, being myself, finally living my purpose on purpose, cultivating the environment I wanna be in, and choosing or, more so, creating the tables I want to be at.

SQ: Well, first, I’ll say, there was this 65-70-year-old lady that worked with me that told me, “Don’t take away their individuality.” When my son wanted to dye his hair, she was like, “Let him be creative. Let him be who he is, and be proud of it!” So, I just tell them to always be their individual selves. Be the best version of themselves, walk to the beat of their own drum, and don’t ever conform. Angel: I love that. One of your videos highlighted your challenges with a stroke. Can you briefly share that story? SQ: In 2018, I noticed I was abnormally tired with shoulder pain. I thought it was the flu. I’m working from home, and my husband, who I call my soul mate, had my daughter take me to the hospital. The doctor examines me and asks, “What took you so long to come in?” Then the vascular doctor comes in. He grabbed my hand and said, “I want you to calm down; you're having a heart attack.” Angel: Oh wow.

Angel: I love it. You and your kids look like you enjoy one another so much. I just watched the video of you and your daughter with the 90s rap song.

SQ: I spent five days in the hospital and was released. Everything with my heart was deemed minor issues. I go back to work, I’m talking and laughing, and the next thing, I collapsed.

SQ: YES! (Laughter)

Angel: Oh my goodness!

Angel: How did you create an environment where they feel safe sharing their authentic selves with you?

SQ: I’m unresponsive. They took me to Baylor Hospital, and for the next two years, I was recovering from a stroke, which was very debilitating and very depressive. I was in physical,

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occupational, and speech therapy, on a cane and a walker, with paralysis on my left side. Most of my damage was cognitive. It was hard for me to think or communicate. It caused me to go into perimenopause. I started researching things to help at home. Confined to my bed, I got certified as an herbalist and an aromatherapist. I started experimenting with different ingredients and including them in my care packages for breast cancer patients. And one day, I was sitting in bed, and God kept saying, "Girl be natural." I named my product Girl Be Natural, which goes back to why or how I got into content creation. Angel: You mentioned breast cancer, and we talked about some losses you’ve suffered, so I do want to take a moment and express my condolences at the loss of your aunt, your friends, and any other family members that may have passed. I lost a girlfriend last year, in August, to breast cancer, and it really took something out of me. I was looking through the organizations you’ve founded and assumed that Pink Peppermint Project may have been concerning breast cancer awareness, P. 3 0 Cheryl MAGAZINE

but I didn’t know that Glam Con was connected to it as well. Can you tell us about those? SQ: Pink Peppermint Project was brought about because of my Aunt Ruby, who passed away. We named it Pink Peppermint Project because of her endearing spirit. We would visit her every year, and she had these pink and green peppermints. My sister and I would eat and be so excited, and she’d give us some sugar. I remember how that made me feel. One day, my aunt said, “I feel better than I look,” and that statement is why we created Pink Peppermint Project. Because I wanted to make women feel good for just one day—curate a program based on emotional wellness and the evolvement of a woman: getting her through the muddy waters of breast cancer. We also created Glam Con, which stands for Glamorous Conqueror, where we do a very curated Breast Cancer Awareness event. And through our Pink Lipstick Campaign, every May 15th, we remind women to be proactive in their breast health. Angel: Awesome! As we wrap up,

you’re a wife, mom, comedian, speaker, entertainer, life coach, and executive producer—all the things! Do you teach others how to do what you’re doing? SQ: Yes, I want everyone to live and walk fully in their purpose, so I teach women how to believe in themselves and how to have courage. I’m pushing my mom to be a fashion influencer for women in their sixties. Basically, I’m teaching women over forty how to be the best versions of themselves on the internet. But, I only provide the recipe. I can’t make you a chef. Angel: Is there anywhere our readers can catch a glimpse of you live and in living color? SQ: I am working on a project with a writer and producer named Diana Rachelle, out of LA. I'm an executive producer for a low-budget comedy sketch show called, The Newcomers with eight other comedians scheduled to shoot at the end of March. I'm scheduled to do South by Southwest in Austin. I'm expecting to be in Toronto for a comedy show and another in Las Vegas. And then, I'm also planning to

do the Good Good Girlfriend Getaway Retreat next year in either St. Lucia or Costa Rica. Angel: Oooh, I’m definitely going to have to keep my eyes and ears open for that! SQ: (Laughter) I’m manifesting several other speaking engagements and working on my TikTok coaching program. I have a TikTok Planner that launched March 15th to help people that are struggling with coming up with content and just balancing life as well as trying to be a social media entrepreneur, getting them to curate around themselves, and then getting some rest in between. Angel: (Laughter) Before we go, tell us how we can stay connected to you. SQ: Yea! All my handles are HeyShantaQ, and then HeyShantaQ.com. That’s where you’ll

find me. I’m the only ShantaQ—the only ShantaQuillette in this world! But I tell people if they ever looking for me on TV, or with the FBI, it’s somebody else! Angel: (Laughter) ShantaQuillette, it has been my absolute pleasure to talk with you! I loved everything you shared. You pretty much answered all my questions without me even having to ask. SQ: I’m taking a storytelling class next quarter so it can help me condense my story! Angel: (Laughter) Thank you so much for sharing, have a wonderful day! SQ: You do the same! Her bio reads, one of the most ingenious entrepreneurs, inspirational and motivational speakers, and social media creators. With 67.5 million views on TikTok, I'd have to agree. ShantaQuilette

Develle Carter-Williams is also a women's health expert whose goal is to keep women thriving through all aspects of life. She uses beauty, fashion, and lifestyle to engage, entertain, and inspire women from all walks of life globally! For more on ShantaQuilette or to connect, follow her on all her social media platforms. Angel L. Henderson is a television and film actress, theatre and voiceover artist, director, production manager, producer, and vocalist. Connect with her @iamangelhenderson on IG, Angel L. Henderson on Facebook, and Angel L. Henderson at IMDB.com.

FASHION FOR THE WOMEN WITH

Style & Grace

Too Chic Tees offers trending apparel and custom everyday wear that are both stylish and affordable. Our mission is to positively impact the fashion industry with unique items of quality that are accessible to everyone. Shop online at:

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STYLE MATTERS Defining Your Personal Style

Shop the Look!

Photos courtesy of Tabitha Brown Target Collection. Available for a limited time at Target and Target.com

ho has style? You guessed it. Tabitha Brown! How can there be a Cheryl Magazine Tabitha Brown Takeover, and we not highlight her incredible style? Whether it's home décor or clothing, individual fashion is all about expressing who you are and finding pieces that speak to you. Tab confidently expresses herself through personal style! Style is more than just how an item looks; it's about how it makes you feel. Finding your personal style at home or in your wardrobe can feel overwhelming. However, there are four areas to consider when developing your unique style: color, texture, patterns, and shine. Understanding what you love in these areas will help you create a look that is uniquely yours.

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COLOR ME BEAUTIFUL Think about the colors that draw your attention. Bold, vibrant colors can make a powerful statement and draw attention to your look, while subtle tones and shades can create a more elegant and timeless feel. Consider the colors you like wearing and incorporate them into your home fashion and clothing choices. PATTERNS & PRINTS Using patterns and prints in your design can help you make a statement, like a fun polka dot desk chair or a beautifully bold print runner in your entryway. Be sure to scale when pairing patterns. More prominent patterns will pair nicely with smaller ones for a balanced look. No matter what you choose, have fun! Remember, it's an expression of you.

SPARKLE SIS! It's time to shine! Accentuating with the right accessories, such as jewelry, watches, and belts can draw attention to your outfit. Adding sparkle to your home can be as simple as lighting your favorite candle or adorning your bookshelf with beautiful gold bookends and vases. Metallic tones such as silver or gold can also help make a statement. Try incorporating sequins or other sparkly elements. Mirrors are another great way to add shine and light to your space, whether a wall mirror or a simple decorative piece.

WHAT IS THAT... VELVET? When considering texture in your style, think about the type of fabrics you enjoy. Nothing is like your favorite comfy sweater or the dress that slides on and feels like butter on your skin. Do you prefer silks, cotton, or linen? Try a beautifully embroidered or tapestry jacket. Adding texture extends to your space. Try special touches to your home, like a beautiful velvet couch, crocheted throw, silk sheets, or tapestry curtains for added textured flare.

THE GENTLEMAN’S

WHAT WOMEN VOICE SHOULD KNOW

Daylon A. Goff, President of JET Magazine Talks

Painting Your Own Relationship Canvas

Daylon Goff is President of JET and a self-proclaimed cultural wingman, experiential producer, and influencer of influencers. Follow him on IG @everybodylovesdaylon and at Daylon Goff on LinkedIn.

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THE MARRIAGE CANVAS

At times, even though there is a desire to be supportive, we don’t always have the perspective or tools to do it effectively. The way support shows up in marriage can look and feel differently depending on who it’s coming from, when it happens, and who it’s intended for. The key is communication. I know that’s a cliché, but honestly, it’s really all that matters. A lot of people think communication is all about being able to talk about your wants, desires, feelings, and fears. That’s true, but not the whole truth. I believe it’s more about asking the right questions at the right time and also not just talking. It’s about being able to be talked to. That vulnerability and creation of a safe space with your life partner is worth its weight in gold. But just like gold, it’s valuable but scarce. Take away: Labor to create a safe space for your partner, for them to talk, feel seen and heard, and do it in a way that fits your relationship without comparing it to anyone else’s.

THE FAMILY CANVAS

When my wife and I got married, we made the decision not to have children. From her perspective, she is the oldest of six, with her youngest sister being almost exactly twenty years her junior. So basically, she had been raising kids her entire life. I was already almost forty, and I didn’t want to be the sixty-year-old man at the graduation. Also, I’ve never really longed for children of my own, and always felt that I would defer the decision to whomever I married. When we discussed the topic before tying the knot, the choice was either zero kids or two. One wasn’t an option because our child would need someone to play with besides us. I chose zero, but the final decision was ours together. Our choice hasn’t been without opinions, projections, and downright demands from our family and friends. The statement we get the most is, “But, but...you would be such great parents.” Our response is either to ignore it or agree that we WOULD be great parents, but our choice for OUR family is not to do it. We, instead, pour into our nieces, nephews, and friends' kids, all of whom we love very much. Our aunts and uncles have played a pivotal role in our lives and upbringing, so we want to be like them. Also, kids are expensive, and we love to travel to exotic places on a whim. So whenever our friends tell us they envy the way we move and travel around the world, we reply with the reality that we wouldn’t be able to do it with children. #TeamNoKids

Take away: Be unafraid of nontraditional family dynamics and unbothered by anyone’s opinion of them. Do YOU without feeling pressured.

THE CAREER CANVAS

My work and life have always been blurred lines, and I’m perfectly fine with that. I like being able to work for play and play for work. I learned early in my career that I absolutely HAVE to enjoy what I do to do a good job at it. I sometimes envy those who can have a clear separation, and I’m sure some people also envy how I can have a good time while making a living. My wife, on the other hand, definitely has a clear separation between the two. So much so that she’s the head of marketing for a division of a major insurance company, but all of our personal insurance is through their primary competitor. Why? Because she’s always had the same insurance, and they give us much better rates. So, in essence, a portion of the money we make from one company directly pays their competition monthly. She also takes every single one of her vacation days. She always has. I appreciate it because she MAKES me take mine too. I love to work, so sometimes, taking time off can be harder than it seems. Take away: Find your yin and yang—opposite but interconnected force. Find someone that understands and respects your mode of operation and picks up wherever you leave off.

PAINTING THE PERFECT CANVAS Everybody is different, so you must treat them that way. A lot of times, people make generalizations about what men want, what women want, or what people in general want. The reality is that we’re a sum of our experiences, personalities, and upbringing. So the key is to figure out how to communicate effectively with the person you're with, to really find out what drives them and makes their heart whole. Otherwise, you’ll keep guessing and probably guessing wrong, which leads to frustration on everyone’s end. Don’t ever assume when it’s much easier to ask. Take away: Communicate. No guessing games. Put the work in and learn your partner.

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Two Perspectives: A Married Woman's View

ThE LIGHT WITHIN Utilizing Our Light by Nina Wooten

Utilizing Your Light Each of us has a superpower that is transformative when utilized. It empowers us to see good, make better, and bring out the best. It’s our light, and if we acknowledge it in its various forms and use it, we can enhance our personal lives and the lives of others. Light as a Spark A spark is the tiniest light. However, it is just enough to bring about growth and change. This light stage is necessary to transition from what is to what can be. Use this spark when ideas, inventions, partnerships, or other opportunities present themselves. Our spark should push us to learn new things, invest in ourselves, develop relationships, and make the necessary changes for growth. It’s where we discover what we are capable of and instill unshakable confidence. Light as a Flame At the flame stage of light, there is hope, enthusiasm, and intensity for life and everything it entails. Use your flame to build the life you want. If single, get back to dating. If expanding a business, write that new business model or explore better real estate. If wanting children, see that doctor or review the adoption criteria for your state. Build the life you know you deserve. Light as a Burn Burning is a transformational act. It literally changes one substance into another. Use your burn to do some soul-searching to become the P. 3 6 Cheryl MAGAZINE

most authentic version of yourself. Consider your character, speech, delivery, wants, needs, and physical, spiritual, and emotional desires. What should stay, and what should evolve? Have honest and sober reflections on reaching the highest and preeminent version of self. Greatness is at your fingertips. The Torch When your light becomes big enough inside, you must carry it differently. At this stage, it is no longer just for you. Your wisdom, experience, understanding, and expertise are ready to be shared. Our stories and insight, not designed to remain only with us, far too often do. Step out on faith and shine your light whenever you enter a room. Step into purpose. Pass along all you’ve gathered using your torch to mentor, teach, share, create opportunities, or write. So many need what you have and are eagerly waiting. One way to keep your light burning is to ignite it in others and continue to shine.

Two Perspectives: A Single Woman's View

ThE LIGHT WITHIN Acknowledging Our Light by Nikki Wright

Stewarding Our Light When was the last time we paused to acknowledge our greatness? We innovate at work, emotionally support the family, and give countless hours of service to others while pushing through unexpected challenges and obstacles. The light we bring to the table of life should be acknowledged and celebrated, if by no one else, by us. Which begs the question, how are we stewarding our light? Hiding Isn’t an Option We’ve all played childhood games like hide and seek and red rover. However, if we hide without the intention of being found or if red rover wants to call us over but we’re not present, we do a disservice to everyone involved, especially ourselves. The game of life should find us to partake of our potential, abilities, and willingness to share what we have with others to benefit ourselves and those around us. We must remember, “Nobody puts Baby in a corner.” Let’s not allow anyone the power to stash us in a corner when we should be center stage showing the world we can do the impossible. Positioning Your Light The best position is the one where we emit the most light. No one knows better than us what invigorates us. Let’s think about our giftings and skills. Are we in the right place for our light to shine? Sometimes we sit on our gifts or talents when we should be building on them or refining them. When our careers or organizations don’t

require their use, or if what we’re doing doesn’t demand our skills, let’s demand them of ourselves and create our own opportunities. If we have the gift of communicating, it may be that you should be facilitating a small local group or doing a podcast. If patience and understanding of small children is your gift, perhaps you could have a side hustle babysitting for parents who need a night out and someone they can trust with their children. We all shine; whether in places great or small, we should be positioning ourselves to shine the brightest. Our Light Preserves No matter how old we get or how much time passes, what we possess will always be in demand. There is no time like the present; let’s face it, we are uniquely remarkable, and others know it too. Even with a late start, when we shine brightly, the light we give the room is appreciated. Even harnessed light preserves and is never too late to release and shine. Nina Wooten and Nikki Wright are bloggers, servant-leaders, career professionals, mentors, and they both serve their communities. Nina is passionate about seeing women and children thrive, and encourages well-rounded living and a life fully enjoyed. Nikki, a philanthropist, avid traveler, and lover of the arts, is passionate about helping teens, women, and singles. Cocreators and co-writers of Wooten & Wright, a lifestyle blog, visit wootenandwright.com, wootenandwright@gmail.com, or on IG:@wooten_and_wright.

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FOXXY WIZDOM with Charmaine Roots Castillo

We're Expecting! h e seeds you planted in the past season are about to spring forth! Isn't that what you expected?

You consistently showed up for others even when you were exhausted, and your pure intentions were scrutinized in this dog-eat-dog society, but your labor was not in vain. The tide is turning. There is a sweet reward attached to your unselfish acts of serving. Girl, you were determined and intentional. You kept pushing and praying until something happened—well, it's happening! Aren't you glad you didn't quit? Now it's time to spring forward. Your focus propelled you to, against all odds, bet on yourself. You let go of past disappointments and decided to give yourself one more try. Here's to you springing into action to make your dreams a reality. Walking in integrity when compromise beckoned kept you on the noble path of this season's celebration, so let the victory dance begin. Enjoy the newness of the season and the wonder of it all as we celebrate like it's our new birthday! What we have been affirming is now being revealed. Dreaming it, declaring it, speaking it, expecting it—THIS IS IT! I hope you are expecting a surge in the "satisfaction" meter of your heart, and I hope your cup overflows into the many saucers whose purpose is not to let your gift go to waste. I encourage you to enjoy the blessings you have coming. It is your reward for being committed to you, and you deserve it.

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The reward of changing your mindset from victim to victor is now in showers of blessings. May those showers coming your way this season be more significant than ever imagined. Expect a downpour and leave the umbrella at home. Celebrating YOU this season is a non-negotiable task, and second place is not the position you will assume. For all the times you laughed to keep from crying and humbled yourself to reach out for help, this season is for you. Allow yourself to get drenched in the rainstorm. We should always look forward to the end of the old seasons and anticipate with great expectation the unveiling of the new seasons as we move in the direction of our dreams. Whatever you expected each time you pressed forward, what you expected when you affirmed, declared, and believed, this is that season. Spring forward!

Secure your peace. Prioritize you. Receive the reward! Inspire. Nurture. Guide. Charmaine Roots Castillo is a creative writer who enjoys promoting hope, encouragement, and brighter perspectives. If you would like connect, follow me on Facebook: IamCharmaineLaFonde or Smile@CharmaineLaFonde.com

What are you expecting?

"Be

passionate and move forward with gusto every single hour of every single day until you reach your goal.” -Ava DuVernay P. 3 9 Cheryl MAGAZINE

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NEW YORK TIMES #1 BESTSELLER

NAACP Image Award Winner Two-Time Children’s Emmy Award-Nominated

The Tab Time Story "Oh honey, Tab Time also

Feeding Our Souls With Love and Inspiration “I call Feeding the Soul my personal pandemic stories. A lot of the stories are about things I’ve been through in my life that I had to get over to help me find my way back to me. Whether my childhood, funny stories, or sad stories, they’re real stories and what I learned from them. And so I encourage anybody who wants to go on their freedom walk to check it out and the journal that accompanies Feeding the Soul [Seen, Loved, Heard] if you want to take a dive into your own freedom. It’s something I’m so grateful that I did and shared.”

came straight from God. He’d given me a specific assignment to heal the world, and He told me it starts with children. So, I figured, I could do a children’s show that taught children how to see themselves and love themselves. Then teach them to see other children and love them. They would learn to respect each other while learning together, and using their imagination as power. Then those same children would one day grow up and love themselves, see themselves, love other adults and see them, and help each other while respecting each other. It’s definitely a passion project that I absolutely love.”

Everything is From the Spirit! “Why is my cookbook called Cooking From the Spirit? Honey, because child, that’s what we do! We ain’t measuring nothing. We’re cooking from the spirit. That’s how my granny did it and how my mama and them did it, and that’s how I do it. I ain’t got time to be measuring stuff. That’s also why I don’t bake. Cause I’d just rather throw it all in there and do what my spirit tells me to do!”

www.iamtabithabrown.com

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Give me a Little

Sunshine

Sunshine Seasoning with McCormick is one of my favorite things, right? We have garlic in it, of course, because everybody knows Tab loves garlic. But I wanted to do like a Caribbean-like feel because we were at the height of the pandemic when I started creating this in 2020/2021, and people were not able to go out yet. People were in dire need of a vacation. So I said, ‘You know what? Let me put sunshine in a bottle. Let me bring the vacation to people.’ And so, it has a little bit of heat, you know—just a little bit from red pepper, but you get all these tropical flavors. It gives you almost a sweet and savory [taste], but with an island spin. You got your pineapple, your garlic, your ginger, your mango. All these ingredients--these herbs that mix together so well. It makes you feel like you’re on vacation, honey, even though you might be right there at your house. It’s such a great seasoning that you can put on everything, and absolutely, it’s salt-free, so you can layer it up as much as you like. I am very cautious about using salt. I don’t use a lot of it because I know our background. I know my family’s history of high blood pressure, cholesterol problems, diabetes--so many things when it comes to salt and sugar. I’ve never been a big sugar person. Sweets are just not my thing. Honey, I like to eat. I like FOOD food. But I’m very cautious with both, just because of not only my own family background but also the Black community and the diseases that run rampant. A lot of them stem from how we eat. And I know that, so I don’t want that to happen to myself, so I’m just very mindful. So when I put out a product, I’m also thinking about us. I don’t want to be a part of the problem. I want to be a part of the solution, so I made my seasoning salt-free. I absolutely love when I see people posting that the Sunshine actually brought sunshine into their home or into their day. I’m like, ‘YES! Mission accomplished!’”

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Courtesy of McCormick Seasoning

CHICKY FARRO BOWL

Instructions:

Recipe featuring McCormick® All Purpose Sunshine Seasoning created in partnership with Tabitha Brown.

1. For the Spiced Chickpeas, preheat oven to 400°F. Pat chickpeas dry with paper towels. Whisk oil, vinegar, Seasoning and salt in medium bowl. Add chickpeas, toss to coat. Spread chickpeas in single layer on large parchment-lined sheet pan.

Ingredients: Spiced Chickpeas 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained well 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon cider vinegar 1 tablespoon McCormick® Salt Free Sunshine by Tabitha Brown All Purpose Seasoning 1/4 teaspoon McCormick® Sea Salt Grinder Sunshine Farro 1-1/2 cups water 3/4 cup farro 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 package (8 ounces) white mushrooms, thinly sliced 1 medium onion, thinly sliced 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1/4 teaspoon McCormick® Sea Salt Grinder 2 teaspoons McCormick® Salt Free Sunshine by Tabitha Brown All Purpose Seasoning 1 cup unsalted vegetable stock 1 cup frozen peas, thawed

2. Roast 35 to 40 minutes or until crispy, stirring every 15 minutes. Set aside. 3. Meanwhile for the Sunshine Farro, bring water to a boil in medium saucepan. Stir in farro. Remove from heat; let stand 30 minutes. Drain well. Set aside. 4. Heat oil in large skillet on medium-high heat. Add mushrooms, onion, garlic, salt and Seasoning; cook and stir until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add farro. Gradually add stock, about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring constantly until liquid is absorbed by farro after each addition. Stir in peas and cook until heated through. 5. Serve Sunshine Farro topped with Spiced Chickpeas. Add additional toppings such as fresh pineapple or mango chunks, roasted veggies, halved cherry tomatoes, or alfalfa sprouts.

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ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT

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I Don't Need a Lot of Stuff, but I Do Need To Have Impact on Women in Business

Katrina Pennie Pitre by Siobhan Davenport

atrina Pennie Pitre has named her life BIG because she is grateful for her success. However, she acknowledges the need for three phones to run her businesses and nonprofit and to keep up with her family. Pitre, and her husband, Robert, are the founders and owners of Skyline Ranch and Event Center in Dallas, Texas. They are the largest private landowners in the City of Dallas, with over ninety acres of lush real estate overlooking the city skyline. This establishment hosts over 350,000 guests annually, celebrating weddings, family reunions, birthdays, corporate events, and concerts. Pitre learned early on that the strength of their marriage was grounded in their complimenting independent entrepreneurial leadership. In a pleasantly confident tone, Pitre stated, "We were business owners before Skyline Ranch, and we are also celebrating forty-seven years with Pitre Auto Sales. We found then that if we were going to work together, we better find different roles to play, like two ships sailing in the night. I run the day-to-day operations at the ranch with a team of thirty employees, and at the car dealership, he's purchasing cars and acquiring land for development." Pitre is celebrating thirty years as the President and CEO of Skyline Ranch. She shares that the ranch is her bread and butter, but her passion is her nonprofit, Pitre Vision. Pitre hosts an annual complimentary fun-filled weekend for over 5,000 inner city at-risk and special needs children for an opportunity to "just be kids." They can ride horses, swim, run, play games, and enjoy the ranch in the fresh air. Pitre's passion is service. She also serves on the Board for the St. Phillips School and Community Center

in South Dallas, where she assists with fundraising efforts to aid and support one of the most underserved neighborhoods in the city. She believes in the power of education to uplift African Americans and in fostering hope through the requirements of daily chapel attendance. "My son attended St. Phillips, and now my grandson is there. I'm excited about the school because they provide an excellent education and start and end each day with prayer. They talk about things children are being challenged with in the world today." Pitre also reminisced about having the same experience in college, where she was required to attend chapel every morning. It is her faith that carries Pitre through her personal and professional life. She holds dear to two scriptures: John 7:38, where, for Pitre, Living Water represents not only good health but also financial health. And Proverbs 4:23, where guard your heart, means to do good in the community but know that not everyone will be happy for you. With all of her business and personal accomplishments, Pitre has received numerous awards for her contributions to humanity, such as the City of Dallas Outstanding Award in Philanthropy, Dallas Black Chamber Quest for Success, the National Council of Negro Women, and Congresswoman EB Johnson Community Leaders. However, she is most proud of her commitment to mentoring and developing other women business owners. Currently, Pitre serves seven women business leaders who have reached seven-figure status. Pitre plans to continue the relationship until she retires or as long as needed.

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"I will never encourage any woman to work for anyone other than herself," she expresses. I was surrounded by entrepreneurs. My mother was an independent entrepreneur. She owned Eva's Convalescent Care, where I changed bedpans. My aunt owned her own restaurant in Chicago for over forty years, where I busted tables. My uncle owned a flower shop. My dad owned a mechanic shop." When asked how she supports a new entrepreneur, Pitre stated, "I focus on operations, acquiring a good CPA and bookkeeper to build a business, and then we can talk about how good the cake is. I believe businesses need support through the first ten years to ensure continued success. I help my mentees acquire lines of credit." Pitre has joined her husband in bringing light to the discriminatory and systematic denial of services by lenders using redlining practices in the business district. In 2020, WFAA8 featured Robert Pitre in a seven-part investigative piece entitled "How Some Banks Still Redline Minority Communities." Although the Pitres can easily get a line of credit for their businesses now, earlier on, they had to use personal earnings to build the ranch.

"My CPA used to ask, how do you live on this? I said, ‘we can't.’ Most of our profits had to go back to the business. Now, I can easily get lines of credit for my businesses." Pitre added, "But it is still too hard for Black women to start and maintain businesses." The Pitre entrepreneurship gene continues in Pitre's son, Jordan. About ten years ago, he started a car dealership without telling his parents, "Royalty J Auto." Pitre says they were shocked by the news. "My son is my legacy. He has his own LLC. In addition to his dealership, he also acquires land for development and has a nonprofit called Royal Treatment. He told me; his dad and I 'cornered the market on children.' So, he wanted to focus on the elderly because they deserved to be treated like the royalty they are. His first project was a community garden named after my mother, Eva." Like most of Pitre's close friendships, she became friends with Dr. Cheryl Polote Williamson because of their shared purpose to impact Black women. She applauds the role that Cheryl Magazine plays in that regard.

Get the Keys to Win in Marriage and Business

thepowerofusbrand.com

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Maria has worked in the healthcare industry for more than twenty years in varying roles across the care continuum. She owns a boutique consulting firm where she speaks and trains national and international healthcare organizations on the impact of racism on disparate healthcare outcomes. Maria is the CEO of a nonprofit organization, Safer Healthcare for All, dedicated to advocating for patients and healthcare workers who experience discrimination in healthcare settings. She is currently completing her Doctorate in Education at the University of Southern California.

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Living and Thriving In Spite Of by Maria Flowers This spring marks three years since COVID-19 was officially declared a pandemic, initiating the lockdowns and mask-wearing that changed the world we once knew. We are again enjoying parties, conferences, travel, and reconnecting with family and friends we have not seen in years. We are mostly back to business as usual, and despite everything, we are still here, living and thriving.

guidance and direction so you can mentally prepare for the journey ahead. Your pause may be a few hours or days, but please take the time to get centered before taking the next steps.

local support group, a mental health therapist, or all of the above. People are built for community, and when fighting a disease or dealing with a potentially fatal diagnosis, you should not go it alone, especially if you don't have to. Surround yourself with safe, validating people. Find people Next, gather information. Refrain from consulting Dr. Google. I repeat, you can vent to, laugh with, and cry with. No negative vibes here and no DO NOT consult Dr. Google. Looking up your diagnosis or symptoms online judgment. You will need positivity for stability and support. can take you down an unnecessary Just as the declaration of the rabbit hole of worry and despair. COVID-19 pandemic came out of Instead, first, consult with your Lastly and most importantly, take nowhere and changed our lives, medical team for clinical advice. Your time out for yourself. Often when each year, millions and millions of doctor(s) and specialist(s) should one is faced with a diagnosis of people face the unsettling news of be available and able to answer all bad health, a person can lose their an unfavorable health diagnosis. It your questions about the diagnosis, sense of self. Please do something could be a chronic illness, a fatal prognosis, options for treatment, and that helps you feel like you. The disease, or a misdiagnosis. No matter next steps. If you can't get a facemedications, treatments, tests, and the case, when the doctor calls with to-face appointment, you can book doctor's appointments can steer you bad news, it can be life-changing. a telehealth appointment with your away from who you are and what you Many people in this position need to physician to get questions answered. would typically like to do. If you want gain what is known as health literacy, to get dressed up, no matter how or the ability to comprehend and bad you may feel, take the time to Keep a notepad and write down find information to assist in making get dressed up. Get your hair done, your questions and the answers health-related decisions. All of this provided. No question is dumb. Make get a new wig, put on make-up, or means that no matter how educated sure you get the information you a nice bold pair of earrings. Go on a you may be, there is a chance that girls' trip, take a cruise, sing karaoke, seek. Many physician offices have you could get a diagnosis of bad whatever it is, do something for you. access to a medical social worker. health and not know what to do. The idea is that you do the things that Ask if one is available for you. A How do you keep going? How do you bring you joy and peace and remind medical social worker will have a continue embracing life despite the you of who you are without whatever wealth of knowledge about local bad news? I only profess to have the doctor says you may have. resources to help you throughout some of the answers. I hope these your journey. You can also ask if a steps support your ability to thrive in patient navigator is available for you Whether or not you are spiritual, the spite of the new information. and your family. One can also be hired final say is not in man's complete through a private agency. They can control. Over these past three The first thing to do after receiving a help hold your hand through your years, we have lost many people diagnosis of bad health is to pause. treatment journey and advocate to COVID-19 and other diseases. Often, our knee-jerk reaction in for you to have the best possible While we know that life is fleeting, hearing bad news is to go straight to health outcomes by recommending tomorrow is not promised, and many finding the definitive solution. While resources and services. of us have more days behind us than you need a care or treatment plan, in front. Let's enjoy as many of the jumping immediately into one can be Another critical step is building days that are allotted to us. Receiving overwhelming. life-changing news of any kind can a support system and healing be devastating, but there is always a village—a group of people who will path to continue embracing life and Before you absorb all the strengthen you and hold you up thriving despite whatever we face. information, pause and get when you cannot do it for yourself. centered. Use this initial time to Your village may be a group of catch your breath and pray for girlfriends, your immediate family, a

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Adrian I. Thompson

Co-Founder Behavioral Health Services Counselor and Licensed Therapist

The new Rebirth Journal by Adrian and Denise is designed to help anyone who is carrying pain, shame, fear, rejection, failure, stress, heartbreak, embarrassment, or loneliness. It encourages those to check in with themselves and begin to live a life of purpose and intention. The authors challenge you to begin the journey of releasing whatever or whomever is limiting your progress so you can Evolve and Soar.

Denise Polote-Kelly

Co-Founder Grief and Loss Licensed Therapist and Life Coach

Adrian and Denise desire to provide the best mental health and wellness services available, and joined together in 2022 to form Healing Hearts Therapeutic Solutions.

Healing Hearts Therapeutic Solution’s goal is to educate individuals and communities on the importance of mental health awareness. They offer psychotherapy services which offer hope, inspiration, and motivation for those ready to take steps in new directions. “Come to Evolve. Leave to Soar.”

Mindfulness. Movement. Rebirth. Breath. Release.

Start your journey today. Visit HealingHeartsTherapeuticSolutions.com. P. 5 8 Cheryl MAGAZINE

Five Ways To Learn How To love Yourself Many people believe that to love others, you first must love yourself when really learning to love yourself is a lifelong process that can exist parallel to your love for others. The good news is that no matter where you are on your journey to self-love, it is never too late to learn how to love yourself honestly and openly, just as you are, with flaws and all. One goal in learning to love yourself, which can affect your ability to connect with and deepen your relationship with others, is to achieve self-understanding. When we truly know who we are, we can determine what is necessary for our lives. When we know what we need, we can establish healthy boundaries with people, choose the places we go, or eliminate things that don’t serve our life’s purpose. We can love others authentically simply because we know our value. There are five practical strategies that you can implement to maintain your connection with and effectively love yourself. 1) Establish a Morning Routine. Giving yourself the first fruits of the day can increase your capacity to deal with everyday stresses. A few recommendations include daily meditation, journaling, devotional

time, yoga, or stretching. It can also contribute to a less hurried start with a calmer mindset, which can cadence, your success in moving from your holy ground (morning routine) to the battleground (whatever you will face in your day). 2) Implement Boundaries. Have you heard the saying, 'you teach people how to treat you?' I recommend observing how people treat you and how they show up in your life. Observation will give you the information you need to reject or allow, accept, and accommodate them in your presence. You can still be kind and patient while letting people know when they have crossed your line. 3) Prioritize Essential Things. Include self-care, exercise, and rest. These essentials can lead to feeling better about you and can contribute to higher self-esteem and confidence. 4) Be Purpose Focused. When you put your time, energy, and resources into the things that are important to you and that align with your life’s mission, you demonstrate that your purpose in life matters, and you are better able to give to others from your place of abundance.

FOCUS ON MENTAL HEALTH with Dr. Janie Lacy

5) Positive Content Consumption. Follow and connect with inspirational people and platforms on social media. You can protect your inner peace by feeding your mind with positive rather than negative or emotion-provoking messages. Remember that your self-love journey is just that—a journey that will take time and energy, and some days will be more challenging than others. Never give up on yourself because the relationship you create with yourself is the most important one you will ever have. Dr. Janie Lacy has received extensive training through her graduate program at Palm Beach Atlantic University and through her doctorate program at California Southern University. She works with adolescents, young adults, and individuals helping them heal from low self-esteem, anger management, anxiety, depression, sexual addiction, codependency, and relationship trauma.

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Our Honorees The 2023 Cheryl Magazine Women of Influence Award Luncheon recognizes women who have demonstrated excellence in leading, motivating, and developing others in their industry. In celebration of Women's History Month, we award six exceptional women for their groundbreaking leadership. Meet the Women of Influence fiercely changing the world around them! P. 6 0 Cheryl MAGAZINE

Erika N. Salter, Founder and Managing Partner of The Law Offices of Erika N. Salter, P.C. Immigration and Criminal Law Group, manages one of the fastest-growing multimillion-dollar businesses and one of the top-producing practices in Texas, serving thousands of immigrant families. With a success rate of more than 90% positive resolutions, her Dallas and Ft. Worth firms provide exceptional services in the complicated areas of crimmigration and law involving naturalization. Her specialties include obtaining lawful status, deportation defense, citizenship, political asylum, green card application, and all general immigration issues. She is known as “La Defendora!” within the Hispanic community because of her winning record. Salter mentors young students and up-and-coming lawyers, is a member of multiple community-driven and service-focused organizations and helped raise over $3 million as Fund Development Chair. She is the youngest member of the Executive Council and Foundation Board of The Links Incorporated, and is a proud graduate of Leadership Dallas 2020.

ERIKA N. SALTER

FOUNDER AND MANAGING PARTNER OF THE LAW OFFICES OF ERIKA N. SALTER, P.C.

La Toya Haynes is the first person to hold the position of Director of Racial Equity at Intuit. Haynes joined Intuit in 2016 as an HR Business Partner with the ProConnect Group in Plano, Texas. She also served as Global Co-Chair for the Intuit African Ancestry Network and is currently leading the Racial Equity Advancement Leadership Team. As an executive and human resources professional of more than twenty years, Haynes' expertise spans the automotive, health care, consumer packaged goods, aviation, and tech industries. Before joining Intuit, she worked for world-class organizations, including General Motors, Tyco International, Procter & Gamble, The Canadian Helicopter Company, Ericsson, and Tupperware Brands. Haynes graduated from Southern University and A&M College, receiving a B.S. in Business Management. She is also a graduate of the University of Texas at Dallas, where she received an M.A. in Organizational Behavior and Executive Coaching.

LA TOYA HAYNES DIRECTOR OF RACIAL EQUITY INTUIT, INC.| PEOPLE & PLACES

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UNT Dallas Vice President for University Advancement, Dr. Monica G. Williams, has more than twenty-five years of administrative and leadership experience in non-profit and educational sectors. Also serving as President and CEO of the UNT Dallas Foundation, Dr. Williams is responsible for leading alumni affairs, external relations, marketing/ communications, sponsored research, and the university’s efforts in fundraising.

DR. MONICA G. WILLIAMS

Dr. Williams has devoted most of her career to social services and the advancement of underserved communities by raising money to support an array of worthy causes. Since 2016 she has raised more than $10 million in private philanthropy and led the team that increased the research grant portfolio by $35+ million. Dr. Williams increased the retention of first-generation students who needed more resources and took on responsibility for growing the Caruth Police Institute from a local to a statewide platform, attracting significant resources toward eventually improving best practices in policing nationwide.

UNT DALLAS VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT

Kimberly Bizor Tolbert serves as Deputy City Manager for the City of Dallas, the ninth-largest city in the U.S. with more than 13,000 employees and an annual budget that exceeds $4 billion. Tolbert is second in command to Dallas’ City Manager and the first woman, first African American, and first Native American in the Deputy City Manager role. Tolbert has spent more than three decades of her professional career as a public servant with the City of Dallas and the North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA). Tolbert provides direct oversight to City offices, including Aviation; Dallas Water Utilities; Communications, Outreach, and Marketing; Human Resources; Risk Management; Homeless Solutions; and the Small Business Center. She represents the City, building and retaining collaborative relationships and partnerships with business, community, and special interest organizations across diverse constituencies. Tolbert also spearheaded the historic Dallas R.E.A.L. Time Rapid Rehousing Initiative, successfully rehousing more than 2,700 homeless [persons]. She championed the creation of the City’s first-ever Small Business Center to provide dedicated resources and facilitate opportunities for entrepreneurs and new and small firms.

KIMBERLY BIZOR TOLBERT DEPUTY CITY MANAGER FOR THE CITY OF DALLAS

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Additionally, Tolbert serves as President of the Dallas Convention Hotel Development Corporation (Omni Dallas Hotel) and board member for All Neighbors Coalition led by Housing Forward serving Dallas and Collin Counties. She also owns and operates Kween Bee’s Sugar Scrub providing luxuriating, organic products, handmade with all-natural ingredients.

Alexis Kerr, Vice President of the Mahogany Brand, Hallmark, is growing the beloved brand that has built a relationship of trust with the Black community by honoring, celebrating, and supporting emotional connections among Black families, friends, and loved ones for more than thirty years. Kerr is responsible for elevating how consumers see and experience the brand and expanding into new spaces in the marketplace. Within her first year, Alexis created meaningful connections with Black women across various touch points. An all-new Mahogany.com website created a place for women to uplift and empower one another through a writing community centering the voices of Black women. Mahogany.com is also a marketplace where shoppers will easily find Mahogany products, community activations that celebrate Black excellence, and timely and socially relevant and authentic social media posts that have dramatically grown Mahogany’s followers. Kerr is also responsible for the partnership with Crown Media Family Networks to bring Mahogany to life on television.

ALEXIS KERR

VP OF THE MAHOGANY BRAND, HALLMARK

Miki Woodard, President and CEO of the Texas Women’s Foundation, has more than twenty-five years of experience as a philanthropist and social impact entrepreneur dedicated to championing equity, cultural diversity, and social justice. She also served as Head of Social Impact, Diversity, and Inclusion for Bad Robot Productions, Inc., and Senior Advisor of the Katie McGrath and J.J. Abrams Family Foundation in Los Angeles, CA. Woodard is the leader of one of the largest women’s funds in the world, spearheading efforts to raise funds for research, advocacy, and grant-making on behalf of Texas women and girls. Since its founding thirty-seven years ago, TXWF has awarded more than $57 million in grants and programs. In addition, the Foundation’s over $40 million is invested in its innovative 100% mission-aligned gendered portfolio. She previously held executive positions at Creative Artists Agency (CAA), Be the Change, Inc., and The Artemis Agency. Woodard was Vice President of Philanthropy at JCPenney, managing a $30 million global corporate giving portfolio. She was also the President and CEO of the non-profit charitable foundations for Dr. Phil and his wife, Robin McGraw, where she led national programs and advocacy efforts benefiting children and families.

MIKI WOODARD PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE TEXAS WOMEN’S FOUNDATION

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ENTERTAINMENT SPOTLIGHT

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2X BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR • 2018 DYNAMIC WOMAN OF ATLANTA 2021 ATLANTAN’S WOMEN OF POWER AND INFLUENCE

Everything Comes Full Circle

t all started with a handsome severance package and a leap of faith. In 2008, Angela McCoy founded Full Circle Consulting Group and now has one of the industry’s premiere boutique public relations, branding, and marketing firms, and has worked with some of the biggest names in music, entertainment, and television.

"I was quite comfortable as Executive VP of a GE Fortune 500 Company. I had risen from my role as Vice President after a proven and consistent track record of bringing many strategic partnerships to the company and plenty of revenue. I made the company a lot of money. So, when I was told that the company was being sold and that everyone was getting laid off, I was shocked." After a successful corporate stint, including having put her marketing degree to use as Marketing Director for L.A.-based real estate start-up, now national brand, The Mortgage Store, the closing of McCoy's position felt like the end of an era. It was time for a change. She took the money from her severance pay, stood on all she knew and believed, and stepped out to provide full-service marketing and branding in the entertainment arena. Her knack for meeting the right people, getting into the right rooms, and using her skill sets made the transition from employee to President and CEO easy. "I reached out to several clients I had worked with in the past, and then gaining new customers was the easy part; building a team of seasoned professionals consisting of marketers, graphic designers, brand ambassadors, and publicists was the hard part." McCoy learned a lot from her mentors: Magic Johnson, Rodney Henry (Viacom, ESPN/Disney, FOX Sports, BET, TV One), and Daymond John (CEO of FUBU, investor, Shark Tank), and was determined to make her company a success.

"I remember many months when I did not know when or where my next client would come from, but all I know is that my faith, hard work, and ability to handle tasks enabled me to stay working. As a woman in Hollywood, trying to get into the entertainment business, doors did not open easily. I had to fight my way into my lane while trying to maintain a safe space for others to follow. I knew I could conquer the world if I made my mark with integrity and elegance. I started as an intern at Magic Johnson Enterprises, where I gained a wealth of experience in the entertainment business, including booking talent, securing sponsorships, and executing activations. I work with solopreneurs, CEOs, and executives to help them grow their professional and personal brands. I have worked for various start-ups, which have taught me what drives sold-out launches and sales conversions. However, what sets me apart is my ability to connect with the public on a personal level." Beyond what McCoy does, is the story behind why she named her company Full Circle.

ecause everything comes full circle. Everything we do in this life has a way to come back around."

McCoy reflects on her past life and the uneasy road to success. "My personal life was not an easy journey," McCoy shares. "I faced bullying in school, sexual abuse from my stepbrothers, and daily beatings from them and my other stepsiblings. When my parents got together, my dad brought four children into the marriage. I was the first child in the family from their union.

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My stepsiblings abused me and beat me every single day for years. They'd just pick a reason--my hair, I was light-skinned, I had a gap, just whatever. I believe it was learned behavior. They had watched their dad beat their mom and then start a new marriage and beat that wife. So then I come along, and what do they think is supposed to happen? My mom and dad ran two bars, but my dad was abusive and beat my mom daily until she left him when I was in the first grade after a neardeath situation. I watched horrified for hours before someone removed a gun from my dad's hands. My mom moved us from that situation in with another guy who was touchy-feely with me until sixth grade when he and my mom broke up. Despite all these challenges, I remained focused on my academics, thinking that excelling would earn me a scholarship. I participated in athletics and volunteered for community events to distract myself from the difficulties at home. Failure was never an option. I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh, becoming the first person in my family to earn a college degree, and was accepted into law school at Georgetown University. The year I graduated from Pittsburgh, I found out I was pregnant. For a year and a half, I delayed going to law school for a romp around Spain as the dutiful girlfriend of my athlete boyfriend. Less than a year after my son was born, I came back to the states and attended graduate school at Georgetown, earning my MBA. My mom

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and sister kept my son for five months while I headed to California to chart new territory. No job. No place to stay. Living in a hotel, I was forced to make something happen. I took a call center manager job at City Search. I'll never forget it," she laughs. "I got settled and brought my son out to be with me. I was making it work, but of course, entertainment was calling. I mean, if you move to California, and don't try your hand at entertainment, then why are you there?" she laughs. "That's when I took on mentors in the field and surrounded myself with people I could learn from. Quickly I discovered that entrepreneurship in Cali as a single mom was not the way. My real role and responsibility was mommy. That's what led to my first Director of Marketing role, then my job at GE and the corporate climb. I raised a man, lost my job, started a brand, became a wife, and beat cancer-twice. I am a survivor." When it became time for McCoy's son to attend college, he chose the east coast. McCoy moved back east to be closer to him. She landed in Atlanta, where she met and married former Harlem Globetrotter and international pro basketball player Jermal McCoy, CEO of Life After Basketball (LAB). McCoy continued developing and growing Full Circle Consulting Group in Atlanta, Georgia, going from the woman this life tried to destroy

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physically, mentally, emotionally, and professionally, to a survivor of it all and the 2018 Dynamic Woman of Atlanta and the 2021 Atlantan’s Women of Power and Influence. Talk about full circle. From beating every odd, to surviving and thriving, to managing international artists, to cultivating some of the largest festivals, to helping new brands gain national exposure, and with a portfolio that includes renowned brands such as Nike, Essence, Revolt, W Hotels, Marriott, and AT&T, McCoy has more than proven she is always up for any challenge.

t any given moment, you have the power to say: this is not how my story is going to end."

McCoy looks to create a non-profit that mentors young women. "We need more role models for young girls. Women are not always represented in the best light," she says. "I want to shine a light that helps young women learn that there are other ways to be successful in life besides what is portrayed on social media." Connect with Angela McCoy on IG @iamangelamccoy, or connect with her at fullcircleconsultinggroup.net.

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STEM is My AlenaAnaleighMcQuarter

Super Power! “W

hat do you want to be when you grow up?” is arguably the most common question asked of children. The answer can be anything from a police officer to a schoolteacher. It can be challenging for little Black and Brown girls to aspire to be scientists, engineers, or physicians because they don’t see many examples in their everyday lives. In the STEM and medical fields, Black women, grossly underrepresented, are currently only 3.5% of engineers and 2.6% of physicians in the United States. Today, I am optimistic that, moving forward, young Black girls will aspire to these roles because of the shining example of Alena Analeigh McQuarter. I have followed Alena’s story since seeing her featured on Good Morning America, highlighting her monumental and historic achievement of being accepted into medical school at 13 years old! She is nothing short of a prodigy in several ways. Alena is currently a 14-yearold college student in the Barrett College Honors program at Arizona State University, where she is a double major in chemistry and astronomical and planetary sciences. She is also working on a master’s degree in biological sciences, which she plans to have completed before beginning medical school in 2024 at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Impressive doesn’t even begin to describe her list of academic achievements up to this point. On the very day of our meeting, Alena had to carve out time to talk between a seven-course load schedule. Her focus, discipline, and drive immediately struck me. Her level of maturity is well beyond that of her young age and arguably beyond that of many seasoned adults. She attributes her ability to excel at such a high level to her time management and organizational skills. She exhibits a sweetness and humility of spirit while maintaining an unapologetic confidence to defy incredible odds. Alena starts medical school in 2024 and is still deciding what route she looks to take, whether Ph.D. or M.D.-Ph.D., but one thing is clear, Alena is firm in her role in this world.

“I have a passion for one, advocating for underrepresented communities and healthcare,” she shared. “And two, viral immunology and infectious disease. That’s like my thing. One day I will be a worldrenowned viral immunologist.” Accepted to a medical school with just a 7% average acceptance rate, and only 7% of those admitted are Black; she did that! Alena’s precocious passion for science is palpable as she gushes, “I just love science,” and recounts playing with Legos because she loved learning how to put things together and how things worked, even as early as three and four. “I was always creating something or trying to solve something,” she says, laughing as she reflects on how her mother would find her projects in the refrigerator. Alena’s zeal for science developed into an interest in global medicine and the desire to impact science and medicine worldwide. “From a little kid, I was always interested in everything STEM—everything engineering, everything science. It was fun for me. But now, I’ve seen how the healthcare system works. I’ve seen how the healthcare system works for persons of color, and that’s something I want to advocate for. Globally. Not just here in the U.S. There are so many diseases out there. I haven’t figured out what my focus will be yet. I’m still working. But I know it will be in infectious disease and viral immunology.” As if being in college, working on a master’s degree, and preparing to begin medical school isn’t already a full plate, Alena has also coupled her love of global travel with her interest in furthering the fields of STEM and medicine for Black and Brown girls. She founded the United States Brown STEM Girl Foundation, which she runs with her mother and foundation board. The organization’s mission is to create a culture where girls of color excel globally in the science and STEM fields. Brown STEM Girl has 512 girls enrolled and a waitlist of more than 2000 eager to participate. The acceptance process is rigorous and competitive for those seeking to partake in the program’s unique educational and P.P.6699 Cheryl CherylMAGAZINE MAGAZINE

travel experiences. Alena has also established a Brown STEM Girl STEM abroad program, which awards ten girls with fully funded trips and accommodations for an overseas educational experience. The organization is financed mainly through crowd-sourcing, private donations, and corporate sponsorships. “When it comes to Brown STEM Girl, I’m proud of everything Brown STEM Girl represents,” Alena said with pride. “I created it as a platform to give a voice, to give representation, to give an opportunity to girls of color in STEM whether she’s African American, whether she’s Indian, whether she’s Iranian. It’s for girls of color that are amazing girls of color in STEM ages 12-17. We have been able to do so much. It’s just been amazing, from scholarships to our first-year college experience for girls entering their first year in college. We do their dorm rooms. We take care of, what we call, their STEM Wish List and make sure they have computers or iPads, and hotspots. Then we have our STEM Abroad Program, which is something that is important to me because my mom took me around the world as a little girl of color to see the world beyond California, New York, and Texas. She gave me opportunities over things.” Alena further shares that her mom’s gifts of experiences like world travel instead of simply buying her things cultivated her ability to dream big. While it is refreshing to see how Alena embraces being a role model for young girls and wants to inspire others to see themselves in STEM fields, it is equally important that she has those same types of mentors for herself as she carves out her path toward success. She knowingly notes that she is “called to be the voice for underrepresented women and girls all over the world.” To my utter joy, I learned that Alena and I held a mutual respect and admiration for the world-renowned physician, NASA scientist, and engineer, Dr. Mae Jamison. We gushingly shared our fan-girl encounters with Dr. Jamison. I was privileged to hear Dr. Jamison while I was an undergrad at Spelman College. Recently, Alena was able to meet her and participate in a panel discussion with her. We talked about the significance of representation and being able to see possibilities for yourself through the achievements of others with whom you can relate. The community of Black women and women of color in STEM and medical fields is limited. It heightens the importance of having mentors and role models to look to for advice and direction and to relate to when navigating spaces where there may not be anyone else who looks like you or can relate culturally to your lived experience. I am forever thankful to have Dr. Jamison. Little girls have her to look to, and now Alena as well. P. 7 0 Cheryl MAGAZINE

As a physician, it was particularly refreshing to learn that Alena values taking care of her mental and emotional health. Amid all her Black Girl Excellence, she uses her platform to advocate for the mental health of other young girls of color. “Being part of our program, you have to commit to going to mental health appointments once a month,” she shared. The incorrect perception that Black girls and women are exceptionally “strong” can make us more vulnerable to being overlooked and unattended concerning our mental and emotional health. “Mental health is something that is so important to me,” she states. To proactively address the importance of stress management and routine mental maintenance, Alena openly advises even her friends and peers, “Tell your parents to get you a counselor. Having a counselor doesn’t mean that something is wrong with you.” I could not love this enough! Despite being so accomplished and goal-driven at such a young age, Alena still enjoys being a kid. Hearing her talk about her childhood and college friends was a source of cuteness overload. She is seamlessly navigating these two complicated worlds as a 14-yearold. As hard as it is to imagine that Alena has free time, she enjoys skating, going to the arcade and the movies with her friends at home. She also plays soccer and runs track. Alena did talk about being nervous about whether or not her college classmates would welcome and accept her. It’s great to know she has been embraced and is cared for, especially by her Barnett Honors College friends. She is part of a circle of exceptionally accomplished students who give her a sense of normalcy and comfort as she continues to work toward her endeavors. She attributes her ability to maintain balance in her life to her friendships and the fact that her friends see her as just “Alena.” She enjoys music and loves to sing. She listens to pop, classical, and Broadway musical soundtracks; Hamilton is her favorite. She sings with a choir that has an upcoming performance at Carnegie Hall. The more we talked, the more I felt like an underachiever who should be doing more with my life! I do not doubt that Alena will continue to excel in all she does and that her gifts will bless us all. I wholeheartedly believe it when Alena says she is “put on this earth to be a global change maker.” Her bright future is an example for girls everywhere. “The sky is not your limit; you are your limit. You can do anything you put your mind to,” she says with enough wisdom for us all. For information on how to support or apply to her foundation, please go to her Brown STEM Girls website: bsgscholars.brizy.site. Follow Alena @thebrownstemgirl on all social media platforms.

she did that! Forbes 30 Under 30 Nominee Time Kid of the Year Finalist Nickelodeon Kid of the Year Finalist Global Child Prodigy World in Science Award Recipient President’s Volunteer Service Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Ebony HBCU STEM Queen Recipient The Grio Young Icon Award Recipient

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BUSINESS SENSE & SENSIBILITY

Business Sense Makes Business Cents By Felicia Brown, Senior Advisor, AARP®

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Being your own boss is not for the faint of heart. It takes grit, determination, and

resilience to stay the course, which often means navigating change, listening, and pivoting with the market. It also requires finding opportunities to sustain your business. Being your own boss requires you to make smart decisions ranging from containing costs to aligning with the right partners that impact the bottom line. Here are a few things to consider that can impact the "business-cents" of your enterprise:

1. Decide whether online or brickand-mortar is best. During the pandemic, women entrepreneurs started businesses at higher rates than men, and many began online, according to a study released by AARP (aarp. org/womensmallbiz). Launching online offered an easy way to start without the overhead costs of leasing a space. Sure, a brick-andmortar offers great benefits like having a space to meet clients and the opportunity for people to smell and feel your product. But consider the expense. Ask yourself, "Does it make sense for my business right now?" Growing your business beyond e-commerce is a great goal, but it should make sense and cents at this time.

2. Explore ways to take advantage of free and low-cost marketing.

Marketing your business is expensive. However, word of mouth is still a great way to market. Friends and family, farmers' markets, community events, vending events, popups, and social media platforms can be inexpensive marketing options. However, while social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok may be free to the average user, advertising costs. Also, vending at the more established and well-known popups and vending events can be expensive. Think about the return on investment (ROI) when selecting opportunities. Determine if the opportunity yields increased sales, prospects, or the chance to meet and network with other business owners.

3. Grow slowly. Growing your business can mean

many things, from expanding your product line to acquiring more customers. Whatever it may be, the reality is that growth costs money. It's critical to focus, perfect, and market one or two products and build awareness as a first step. Listen to your customers and decide where it makes sense to invest. A great example is the founders of The Furlough Cheesecake, who chose to launch with just two cheesecake flavors before expanding their product line.

4. Consider the right time to increase your debt.

with less than $1,000. Traditional lending may not be the right option in the early stage of your business, so consider non-traditional sources of capital like grants, crowd funding, pitch competitions, and the Community Development Fund Institute (www.cdfifund.gov). If you're seeking investors, make sure you understand the ask. Most require equity or collateral. Weigh your options and make sure it's worth the cost.

5. Certifying Your Business. Once you've launched your business, you're probably thinking about how to scale. Consider a business certification. However, becoming business-certified is a process that takes time, money, and effort. Do you need multiple certifications, and what does each cost? Is it something you need to open another door? Again, weigh what makes good business sense for you and your growth plan. When launching, growing, and scaling a business, there are many things to consider. I've outlined just a few, but the Small Business Resource Center for the 50+ (www. smallbizrc.org) has resources to help you along your business journey and interviews with established business owners who grappled with similar decisions. When making critical choices about your business's direction, make sure it makes sense for your bottom line.

Few founders don't think about access to capital for starting or growing their businesses. Here's the secret: early cash infusions or equity may hurt growth depending on your business type. Many successful companies launched P. 7 3 Cheryl MAGAZINE

MONEY TALK with Roni M. Benjamin

New Year. New Dreams. New Chances.

ith the start of the new year, it is common to feel a sense of optimism toward the future. New Year mantras flood social media posts and timelines. “New Year. New Me.” “New Year. Bigger goals.” And my personal favorite, “New Year. New Dreams. New Chances.” While they are all inspirational and motivational, I believe the most important part of starting a new year is intentional actions, which, in my opinion, start with a very empowering process— reflection. The most successful people in the world have made reflection a daily, monthly, and yearly habit. Reflection encompasses reviewing past wins, failures, and lessons. It should also include recognizing your accomplishments and celebrating yourself for what you’ve done well. Acknowledging your mistakes helps you to leverage them as a self-improvement tool for the future. I encourage you to reflect on all areas of your life, including, but not limited to, family, friendships, health and well-being, career, business, personal development, etc. Be sure to include your financial goals in this process as well. Did you have any money goals last year? If so, ask yourself a few questions. How was your progress measured? Did you hit your target goal? If so, what worked well? If not, what got you off track? What strategy will you put in place this year to stay on track? Lastly, what goals have you set for this year? It’s not sufficient to simply say that you want to be wealthy or financially free. You must first identify your specific goals, and then create a plan and roadmap to get there. Your goals should be S.M.A.R.T. (specific,

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measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-based). Achieving goals that are vague, aggressive, or poorly outlined is difficult. Working toward a poorly constructed goal can leave you feeling intimidated, with your goals seeming unachievable. However, the S.M.A.R.T. goalsetting framework can help establish a strong foundation for obtaining success. Here are some common money goals for you to consider.

Build an Emergency Savings

Most Americans are not prepared for a $1,000 emergency. Yet, the financial experts say we should save 3-6 months of our expenses and have them available in a liquid, accessible account. For example, if your monthly expenses are $3,000, multiply that by 3-6. That is a minimum of $9,000 to $18,000 in your savings account for an emergency. Use the next twelve months to save towards that goal. Track your progress each month to determine where you should make adjustments if you’re off track or to celebrate your discipline and success.

Commit to a Budget

Creating and committing to a budget is essential to building a strong foundation as you begin to structure your financial plan. A budget allows you to identify how much money you make. It also shows you how you need to manage how much money you spend. The goal is to ensure a consistent surplus and never a deficit. You’ll quickly decide whether to look for ways to increase your income or decrease your spending to guarantee you don’t experience a shortfall from month to month.

Pay Off Debt

80% of Americans have consumer debt. The average consumer debt, excluding mortgage, is $38,000. First, identify your amount of debt by gathering account statements and contacting creditors for outstanding balances. Look at the budget you’ve created and decide how much income can go toward your debt each month. If you have a goal to pay off $30,000 of debt by 2025, divide $30,000 by twenty-four months to give you the amount.

Save for Retirement

Saving for retirement will ensure you have enough money to enjoy a comfortable standard of living when you stop working. Most experts, having considered the rising rate of inflation, are now saying we should save 12-15% of our yearly income for retirement. Work with a financial advisor to determine the types of account(s) you should consider based on your specific needs.

Protect the Most Valuable Asset

Take a moment and think about who in your life today relies on you for safety, shelter, food, and clothing. If you lost income, the ability to work, or your life, what strain would that leave on those who depend on you? Fear of

“

Major impact happens in your business when you’re invited to a Goldman Sachs table. Be ready and stop getting ready. I’m proof it can be done " Cheryl Polote Williamson, Founder Williamson Media Group Alumna, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses at Dallas College, Cohort 19

being unprepared is a fear we can do something about—a danger we can avert. Be prepared for the unforeseen. Meet with an insurance professional to create an insurance portfolio specific to your needs. While there are tons of other financial goals you should consider and factor into your financial plan, the most vital part of your plan is the intentional action you take to achieve financial success.

Act upon these four steps:

1. Write down your goals. 2. Break down your goals into daily, weekly, or monthly actions. 3. Track your progress. 4. Get an accountability partner. I have a personal commitment to increasing financial awareness and financial literacy. My commitment extends to helping you lay a foundation of wealth-building strategies for generations. If I can be of service to you or your organization, contact me at (770) 685-5532 or text “Cheryl Magazine” for a free consultation.

UNLEASH THE BIG POWER OF SMALL BUSINESS. Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses is a program for small businesses that links learning to action. Through the program, participants gain practical skills in topics such as negotiation, marketing and employee management that can immediately be put into action. In addition, they receive the tools and professional support to develop a strategic and customized growth plan that will take their business to the next level. Find out how to: • • • • •

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THE LIST CHERYL'S FAVORITE RESOURCES

Knowing you’re not alone in your business and that helpful resources to take your business to the next level surround you can be a relief. Here are a few of my favorites, from networking to funding.

intuit.com Intuit is a global technology platform, powering prosperity with TurboTax, QuickBooks, Mint, Credit Karma, and Mailchimp.

Women's Business Center Richmond www.theinstitutenc.org/WBCRichmond The WBC of Richmond provides services for business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs seeking operational, financial, and marketing assistance.

Black Alzheimer’s Brain Study blackalzbrainstudy.com Our mission is to create solutions for a healthier community. P. 7 6 Cheryl MAGAZINE

Women’s Business Enterprise National Council www.wbenc.org/certification WBENC is also an approved third-party certifier for the SBA’s Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contracting Program.

Small Business Administration www.sba.gov The SBA has worked to ignite change and spark action so small businesses can confidently start, grow, expand, or recover.

AARP www.aarp.org AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that empowers people to choose how they live as they age.

Swain Consulting swainconsultingllc.com Providing comprehensive financial services with an emphasis in Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC).

Felisha Belle IG: stylebellefelisha Creative director, wardrobe stylist, and closet curator. For bookings email stylebellefelisha@yahoo.com.

Minority Business Development Agency www.mbda.gov/who-we-are/overview The U.S. Department of Commerce, Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) is the only federal agency solely dedicated to the growth and global competitiveness of minority business enterprises.

Speak Beautiful speakbeautiful.com Creative Services Agency We are your one-stop shop for your end to-end design needs. Mention Cheryl and get 20% off your first project.

Lift Fund www.liftfund.com Assistance with loans, tools and resources to help entrepreneurs grow their business.

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Not On My Watch Part THREE by Traci Henderson Smith “Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive and then go do that. Because what the world needs, is people who have come alive.” – Dr. Howard Washington Thurman

Welcome back to our “short stories in continuation” series. We were pleased to kick off this first succession of cliffhangers with “Not on My Watch” by our cover director and managing editor Traci Henderson Smith. We left part two of our story with an exhausted Traci who discovered her self-worth immersed in what good she could make happen for others; the task of consummate gatekeeper having become too much to bear, and her life enhancement and enjoyment suffering. It was time to do something for herself, but what? And would she need to undo the years that led to this point? (“Not on My Watch” Parts One and Two can be heard on Instagram @cherylmagofficial).

t was clearer to me than anything had ever been. After the revelation that the heart and soul I emptied onto others, I too was worthy of, the problem then was, why was it so challenging to worry about and care for myself? Why was the decision to do the things I wanted—what I needed, such a struggle? Thoughts of what it meant to walk away bombarded my mind. What would it mean to withdraw from people and responsibilities I felt relied upon my mindset, skill, energy, expertise, and protection? What would people think and feel? How would they manage? How would they respond? How would projects and visions continue if I removed my involvement? Who would carry on the work, and would the work carry on correctly without my driving thoughts, touch, and action? Would those under my leadership, guidance, or outreach, be okay? Would the programs I headed continue to thrive? Would the needs of students, families, women, and the community still get met? Would the operational flow of departments continue exceeding goals and surpassing expectations? The questions and stirrings plagued me. Emanating 'the world rests upon my shoulders' was not the intention, nor was the presumption that life would not or could not go on without me. What was happening seeped deeper. An imagined crashing world around me and the heaviness from proposed failed expectations that ensued, though selfinflicted, was real. I was tormented, rendered immobile, and subsequently miserable for two years after the shift began to take root in my spirit. Then it hit me. 'Traci, you are doing it again; this is what you do so well. Everyone and everything comes before you. You are incapable of simultaneously caring for someone else and yourself. Someone has to go without, and that someone inevitably is you.'

At the unveiling of old habits dying hard, I began a journey of self-discovery, starting with a simple question: Why do I do this? I had always thought my unwavering attachment to commitments was out of an exceptional work ethic or my care and concern for people for whom I felt responsible. I submitted myself answerable, trustworthy, loyal, protective, and excellent towards whatever my hands declared my realm of accountability. The truth, however, was that, at times in my life, things happened that were outside of my control. I suffered greatly as a result, and therefore, I clung closely to anything and anyone I deemed within my sphere of oversight and accountability. What I could control, I did, with extreme care and fierce protection, even at the expense of my needs. The journey back to the origins of this stunting behavior took me to a time when those liable for my well-being should have had the same hedge around me but did not. It took me to my childhood—to the protector, the watchman, the fighter, and the avenger for others, to a child who was also incredibly unsure of her place in the world. I started peeling back the layers, reliving instances. The truth revealed I had tucked the real me away long ago, right around when the molestation began in daycare. Being laughed at by family and neighborhood kids because a drunken uncle visiting from Palm Beach “liked” me more than the other kids also did not help. He would pull me from the group and send everyone else off to play. It is hard to remember what or who I was before these violations because I was so young, but I have a belief. Those who never come into the knowledge of the truth, or are without a witness or bearer of the truth, still have what is right and wrong written on the tablets of their heart. I can only imagine that I was happy and felt loved and safe before these ordeals, but what I know that I know in my heart of hearts, without a P. 7 9 Cheryl MAGAZINE

I became a haven—I am your protector, and nothing will happen to you. I became a shelter out of feeling no one did it for me. I was vigilant, scrutinizing everything. If it was going to go down, it was not going down on my watch. Anyone connected to me was covered.

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witness or bearer, is how I am created. I was created to thrive. I was reading at three, writing at four, in love with books, eager to learn, creative, gifted, and advanced. I had a voice that needed nurturing. Though that voice burrowed for years, the belief remained with me. After the incidents of molestation started, I felt like the people responsible for my preservation didn’t see me. My original creation needed safeguarding and ample opportunity to cultivate, but I was invisible until blamed for changes in my behavior. Pushing back where I had been silent, nonconformity, mood swings, being withdrawn, isolated, and quiet met with reprimands. No one saw the changes in progression. They were only irritated that those changes were present. I felt they were incapable of taking care of me. So therefore, I formulated, very early, my view of what it must look like to care for someone—because this was not it. I grilled my sister daily once she began attending the same daycare. "What happened in school today?" I would ask. With a quick and playful response and preferring fun over being questioned, she would reply, "I played. I took a nap. I read my book, and I colored." "Is that all?" "Yes!" Answering with giggles. She didn’t understand, but I needed to know. "Did anyone bother you? Did anyone touch you? Did anyone say anything to you?" "No!" "Did a man do something to you?" "No!" The last answer was always a faint combination of bewilderment and annoyance. If my baby sister knew how to inquire about this line of questioning, she would have, but she was four. I was only nine, but I was there for her. I needed her to know she was not invisible. I needed my persistence to speak, 'I see you, and I am watching out for you.' She did not comprehend it, but I asked her all the questions someone should have asked me. I looked for changes in her personality, behavior, and attitude. I believed I could identify them because even at a young age, I could recognize them in me. I was in and out of uncertainty and anxiousness. I was suspicious and sad. I felt oppressed and paralyzed, unable to say or do anything when I felt hurt, disturbed, or taken advantage of—powerless. The same disgusting powerlessness that was present while I lay on the nursery cot at naptime, anticipating my abuser’s arrival and waiting for it to be over. So for me, something as simple as if she was happy yesterday but not today meant there had to be something wrong. Thankfully, there was nothing wrong. When she was moody and didn’t want to be bothered, she genuinely did not want to be

bothered on those days. My point was that someone should have been in my face trying to figure out what was going on with me on the days I wasn’t happy or did not fit the mold of a happy, satisfied child. I became a haven—I am your protector, and nothing will happen to you. I became a shelter out of feeling no one did it for me. I was vigilant, scrutinizing everything. If it was going to go down, it was not going down on my watch. Anyone connected to me was covered. The hero complex was beginning to take shape, but there was more. I peeled back more layers. Another question was now on the horizon. Why do I stifle myself? I am my biggest holdup. Why? And how was the need to safeguard and the practice of holding myself back connected? We hit a rough spot and didn't have much as I got older. I stopped receiving gifts for birthdays and Christmas. I don’t remember the age, as I labored to block it out. I know I was still in school, maybe high school. My sister and brother were younger, and my parents expected me to understand. I’d get told, “Let us do this for them, and we will take care of you later.” Many times, later never came. After a while, I grew accustomed to waiting when it came to me. I made it okay. Eventually, I stopped expecting altogether. I did not complain. I was a giver. I found ways to ease my parents’ guilt, assuming they felt guilty but not realizing how it affected me or how I carried it. I was training myself to be last. Somewhere between not being shielded, the insistence to defend, and acceptance of no expectation, I built a life of putting everyone before me. After doing that for a long enough period, it became the norm, a part of me, and a part of how I viewed myself. It became expected for me to wait. And you wait and wait, and then you’re a woman of a certain age. WAIT! What happened to all the years? What happened to the writer, the poet, and the speaker? What happened to the girl who would change lives with her words?

TO BE CONTINUED in the next issue of Cheryl Magazine... Follow each issue for what happens next. Traci has written for various publications and media outlets in multiple industries including corporate, entertainment, and nonprofit outreach. She has written content for national and international programs and contributed as writer or editor to several bestselling anthologies and other books. She’s also a celebrity ghost blogger with multi-platform access and 11M reach. P. 8 1 Cheryl MAGAZINE

AUTHOR'S CORNER

Just Dance With Me: There is a rhythm and flow to longevity in marriage by Leon and Carita Montgomery

Sometimes I felt like my voice wasn’t being heard in the house. Another thing that really made me angry and a lot of fights ensured because of it. Police would be called to the house, and we would have to go to court. We didn’t seek the bible. We were just doing what we wanted to do but I know I needed to lead by example to show my kids a better way to resolve conflict, teach them how to communicate and think through adversity to be critical thinkers. They didn’t often see that in me. Well, I had the capacity for doing those things, but I just didn’t exhibit them. Especially in front of my children and my wife for that matter. , worth and their importance to the betterment of our world. - Excerpt from the book, Just Dance with Me: There is a rhythm and flow to longevity in marriage, pp. 48-49 Leon and Carita Montgomery, high school sweethearts and graduates of Morris Brown College and Florida A&M University, respectively, understand that the power of prayer kept and keeps their marriage strong. Authors of Just Dance With Me, the couple is committed to helping as many couples as possible experience healthy marriages. Available at Amazon.com.

Keys to Transforming Your Hidden Treasures: A Journey Towards Inner Healing by Ericka Harris-Thomas

“We write for the same reason that we walk, talk, climb mountains, or swim the oceans – because we can. We have some impulse within us that makes us want to explain ourselves to other human beings.” P. 8 2 | Cheryl MAGAZINE

-Maya Angelou

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Keys to Transforming Your Hidden Treasures is a personal guide towards your inner healing journey at a cellular level. This phase of your life will be a time of introspection, reflection, and retrospection. You will start questioning everything around you, like who, how, what, when, and where. You will experience an array of emotions that flow from a deep place within. You and only you can take this journey! There are hidden treasures within you! Treasures hidden underneath the pain, suffering, and trauma. Your story can no longer be concealed but revealed and healed. The keys you will need on this journey are courage, willingness, accountability, vulnerability, transparency, strength, openness, and honesty with God and yourself. During this journey, prepare to be confronted with pleasant and unpleasant surprises. I invite you to allow curiosity to be your guide into discovering, uncovering, and recovering from life circumstances that have had you stuck or bound in yesterday. - Excerpt from the book, Keys to Transforming Your Hidden Treasures: A Journey Towards Inner Healing, pg. 7

Ericka Harris-Thomas, is a servant, wife, ordained minister, certified faith-based therapist, certified master life coach, author, founder of Restored to Reign International Ministries, a ministry of healing and restoration beyond the four walls, and CEO of Re-Inverse Coaching & Consulting. Available at Amazon.com.

I Didn't Think You Exisisted by Hazel Ro

“God, I’m so scared and confused. I truly need to hear from you. Please talk to me and tell me if David is the one for me before I make what might be the biggest mistake of my life. I mean, I love him but . . . Wait, there really shouldn’t be a but, huh? Anyway, God, please talk to me, even if it may not be what I want to hear. Please tell me what I need to hear.” That was the very last thing I could recall before I was awakened by a loud, thunderous sound. Right away, tears began to stream down my face as I remembered the last thing I heard with the exuberant sound. The voice that now replayed over and over again in the back of my mind said, David is not for you. - Excerpt from the book, I Didn't Think You Existed I Didn’t Think You Existed is the first in its series from romance author, Hazel Ro of Chicago, Illinois originally from St. Louis, Missouri. Ro is a stage play producer and graduate of Lindenwood University. Available at Amazon.com.

Finally, Beyond the Veil by Sheretta Lynn Jones

The man in the mirror should be the person you can count on when everyone else lets you down. I mean besides God, you can count on you, right? Sitting here applying make-up more heavily in one spot than the rest of my face it would appear that’s not the case. I cannot believe I’ve allowed someone to harm me for the second time. Me, a person with true Christian beliefs, a successful lawyer and I find myself dealing with something I said I’d never deal with. ABUSE. Now that I can freely admit that this is what is going on, there is no excuse not to do something about it. A quick look at her watch and Cierra knew she had very little time left to daydream. She was running late for church. She hated to miss the praise and worship portion of the service. - Excerpt from the book, Finally, Beyond the Veil Sheretta Lynn Jones (Byrd), author of the Finally series, which includes Finally, I Love You and Finally, Beyond the Veil, is a licensed minister, the controller for a heavy highway construction company, and the owner of AnoMa Beauty Supply. Follow her on Facebook at Sheretta J. Byrd and Instagram @theladiibyrd. Available at Amazon.com.

Unloading Divorce Baggage

Being Different Makes You Unique

Hardly anyone goes into a marriage thinking of a pending divorce. Well, there may be a few celebrities and businesspersons who think of protecting their financial interests legally through prenuptial agreements, so there are exceptions. But the average person does not plan a wedding thinking of divorce, yet divorces are increasing at a rapid rate each year. If you have found yourself on the other side of “I do,” at “What the hell are we doing! And how the hell did I get here!” then this book is for you! If you have found yourself angry, frustrated, isolated, sad, and unsure about what’s next after signing the papers, or, or maybe you are already divorced, you may not be sad or mad, but you feel stuck, then, yes, this book is for you.

“Errands with granny meant going to the mall or to the grocery store. There was never anything different. We never went to the toy store or any cool places. On this day, we went up the street to the grocery store. It was a nice day and whomever carries granny’s water bucket to the car gets to ride in the front seat.”

If you are blissfully married, I am sure you know someone going through a divorce. This is a great tool to help your friend get unstuck!

Available at akkomplishedexperience.com.

by Dr. KerryAnn Zamore-Byrd

by Dr. Tiffany Clark

- Excerpt from the book, Being Different Makes You Unique, pg. 8. Dr. Tiffany Clark, believer, wife, daughter, small business owner, and author of the children’s book, Being Different Makes You Unique, is also an advocate for social justice and change.

- Excerpt from the book, Unloading Divorce Baggage Dr. KerryAnn Zamore-Byrd, is a licensed clinical social worker, and university professor. Dr. Zamore-Byrd’s experience spans over twenty years working with victims of various types of trauma and abuse. Available at Amazon.com and Kzamore.com. P. 8 3 Cheryl MAGAZINE

TRAVEL & LEISURE

Three Reasons Traveling Is the Key to Positive Vibes

Vacation is more than a break from work and a chance to hang out with your peeps in a new place. It’s the key to staying positive and assuring your vibes are cranked all the way up! Here are three reasons why traveling while on vacation is the key to positive vibes.

#1: It is the perfect way to de-stress

Go ahead and try to worry about what’s going on at the office while you’re sipping drinks on the beach--I dare you! The truth is that traveling helps you put things into perspective by reminding you that what Becky did during the last staff meeting is not that important. Traveling gives you a break from the daily grind and the stresses of your everyday life. It allows you time to let your mind relax, rejuvenate, recuperate, and get back to being your positive, unbothered self.

#2: It is the perfect opportunity to re-evaluate and

reinvent you

Notice you’ve been skewing more negative than positive lately? Traveling allows you to clear your head, re-evaluate your life, and think about what P. 8 4 Cheryl MAGAZINE

you would like to change. Additionally, traveling exposes you to different cultures and ways of life, allowing you to try new things and giving you the perfect opportunity to boost your vibes and reinvent yourself.

#3: Travel boosts your happiness and overall satisfaction Gaining new experiences through traveling boosts your overall satisfaction with life automatically. Trying new things you wouldn’t normally do in your everyday life opens the door to greater fulfillment. The fulfillment you find in your travels will carry over into the rest of your life, and you’ll reap the mood-boosting benefits long after you return home from your journey.

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Happy Anniversary, Cheryl Magazine! A Special Note from Tabitha...

heryl is a light in the world. She’s absolutely amazing. She is a woman with a story that needs to be told. Her love for women, you can just see it oozing out of her. Her support, it’s so important that we see that as women and as Black women. We must continue to uplift each other. They say we’re the strongest women in the world, but sometimes we’re not. It’s because of our sisters in the sisterhood; they lift us up. We lift each other up. That’s how we get our strength back. I think that we all can learn something from Cheryl, from her magazine, and from her support. Let us all continue to do our part. Let us all continue, as we go about our business honey, in our weeks and our days, to sometimes say, ‘Okay, let me think about what would Cheryl do in this moment. Let me support and love somebody.' I think we all can continue to do that, and the world will continue to be a better place. I love you all. God bless,

Tabitha

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CHERYL MAGAZINE

Williamson Media Group, LLC 6101 Long Prairie Road Box 744 #269 Flower Mound, TX 75028 info@cherylmagazine.com

Cheryl Magazine | Spring 2023

Articles inside

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