Rochester Woman Online's Aug/Sept 2025 Edition

SEPT/OCT 2023

AUG/SEPT 2025 EDITION

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REGULARS

REGULARS

192

DECORATING FOR YOUR EMOTIONAL HEALTH

250

JOURNEY TO SUCCESS Maggie Coleman

128

BEAUTIFUL, POWERFUL, DESERVING

184

HER EDGE

166

LET’S GET L.I.T.

206

ANIMAL CARE SACTUARY CORNER

172

ONE TOUGH MOTHER

130

176

ROCKSTAR SINGLE MOM

SHE SPEAKS Melissa Meuller

82

196

HER STORY, HER POWER Lisa Yahn

MANIFESTING YOUR TRUE PURPOSE

150

EMPIRE BUILDERS Holly Crocker

90

WOMEN ON THE MOVE The K-Beauty Team

188

SHETHRIVES

102

VOICES OF VICTORY Aries Jordan

HEALTH & WELLNESS

108

HUSTLE & HEART KC Farmer’s Blend

204

LIFE IN BALANCE

190

SEASON OF CHANGE

198

BREATHING SPACE

160

AT HOME WITH WELLNESS

122

VOWS AND VENUES The Sanctuary on Ridge

142

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Sunflowers & Skulls Apothecary

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178

20 COVER STORY Natalie Rae

38

90

WOMAN WHO INSPIRES Geanna Gingello

66 STYLED WITH PURPOSE Kyla Brown

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Dear Readers, Welcome to the latest edition of Rochester Woman Online! As always, I am beyond excited to share with you an issue packed full of inspiration, empowerment, and stories that highlight the incredible women who are shaping our community.

This month, we are proud to feature the amazing Natalie Rae...Life is HER runway. For Natalie Rae, fashion has always been more than fabric and trends — it’s been a form of self-expression, empowerment, and storytelling. In 2023, she stepped into the iconic shoes of Panache founder Joan Lincoln, taking the reins of one of Rochester’s most beloved luxury consignment boutiques. With a bold vision, deep entrepreneurial spirit, and a passion for sustainable fashion, Natalie has been carrying Panache into a new era while honoring the legacy that made it a staple in the community.

Inside, you’ll also find deeply moving and empowering features, including Maggie Coleman of ROC Girl Walks, who is creating a movement that brings women together through walking, connection, and community. We also spotlight Geanna Gingello, founder of the Gingello Autism & Wellness Foundation, whose work is making a profound difference in supporting families and spreading awareness. And that’s just the beginning—this issue is overflowing with stories of women and organizations who are leading with purpose, vision, and heart.

We are also thrilled to introduce some exciting new columns!

At Home With Wellness offers tips, resources, and insights to help you live your healthiest, most vibrant life, while Rockstar Mom Life highlights the challenges, triumphs, and everyday joys of motherhood. These additions continue our mission to provide diverse voices, perspectives, and resources for women at every stage of life.

At Rochester Woman Online, we are more than just a magazine—we are a movement. Our mission is to empower, uplift, and connect women across our region and beyond, providing a platform to share stories that matter. If you are a business, entrepreneur, or changemaker looking to amplify your voice, we’d love for you to join us. Become part of the area’s premiere online women’s publication and let us help you tell your story.

As always, thank you for being part of the RWO family. We couldn’t do this without you. Here’s to another edition filled with courage, connection, and community.

Please be sure to Like & Fllow Us on Facebook, INstagram and Linkedin

Kelly Breuer

T T

ON OUR COVER

Natalie Rae of Panache by Natalie Rae was photographed in studio wearing fashions from her store in Brighton NY. 8

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Rochester Woman ONLINE is the premier professional woman’s online publication in the Greater Rochester area. Our feature articles address major topics that interest local women. Each issue includes articles on health, fashion, fitness, finance, dining, lifestyle and personal perspectives, as well as a spotlight on local area women. The electronic magazines are distributed freely through your favorite app store and will be in your inbox electronically by the first week of every month. The publication is available free of charge. Please feel free to contact publisher Kelly Breuer at 585.727.9120 or you can email us at networkrocqueen@gmail.com. Download our current media kit at www.rochesterwomanonline.com.

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RAE YOUNATALIE ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

Life Is A Runway: Natalie Rae of Panache For Natalie Rae, fashion has always been more than fabric and trends — it’s been a form of self-expression, empowerment, and storytelling.

In 2023, she stepped into the iconic shoes of Panache founder Joan Lincoln, taking the reins of one of Rochester’s most beloved luxury consignment boutiques. With a bold vision, deep entrepreneurial spirit, and a passion for sustainable fashion, Natalie has been carrying Panache into a new era while honoring the legacy that made it a staple in the community.

Her journey, however, didn’t begin with Panache. As the creative force behind Natalie Rae NY, she built a brand rooted in sustainability and global artistry, partnering with women artisans in Northern Vietnam to transform centuries-old traditions into modern handbags and home décor. That same dedication to storytelling, sustainability, and empowerment now fuels her leadership at Panache — a place where luxury meets purpose, and style becomes a way of life.

In this exclusive cover feature, Natalie Rae opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of sustainability, and the power of fashion as a tool for empowerment and connection. From balancing the legacy of Panache with her own 20

unique vision, to expanding her global impact through Natalie Rae NY, she proves that for her, life truly is a runway. Life Is a Runway: Natalie Rae and the Evolution of Panache When you step into Panache, Ro c h e s t e r’s p re m i e r l u x u r y consignment boutique, you’re greeted

For Natalie, fashion has never just been about clothing. It’s been about storytelling, sustainability, and connection — threads that weave through her journey from launching her own handbag and home décor brand, Natalie Rae NY, to taking over the reins of Panache in 2023.

The transition might have seemed daunting to some, but for Natalie, it felt natural. “I had been connected to Panache for years through my own brand,” she says. “I sold my handbags there starting in 2017, and Joan and I worked together closely on social media and styling.

When she decided to retire, it felt like a natural transition.

I already loved the store, the clients, and the mission, so it was an honor to continue her legacy while bringing my own perspective to the brand.”

Today, Natalie Rae is not just continuing Panache’s story — she is evolving it, proving that life, like fashion, is a runway.

From Natalie Rae NY to Panache: Building the Foundation

with more than racks of curated designer fashion. You feel the heartbeat of a legacy — one that was carefully cultivated by founder Joan Lincoln and is now carried forward, with passion and purpose, by entrepreneur and designer Natalie Rae.

ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: AUGUST/SEPTEMBER EDITION 2025

Long before she became the face of Pa n a c h e , Na t a l i e b u i l t h e r entrepreneurial foundation with her own creative label, Natalie Rae NY. From designing handbags to selling home décor, she dove into the world of craftsmanship and connection.

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COVER STORY }} { {SHIFT+CONTROL { LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT } “It’s about mixing secondhand with new in a way that feels modern, curating wardrobes and homes that reflect personal style without contributing to overconsumption.

Sustainability isn’t a trend anymore — it’s the future of fashion and design.”

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

“Launching Natalie Rae taught me everything about being an entrepreneur — from designing and selling my handbags and home décor items to working festivals and styling customers,” she explains. “It was all very hands-on, and it gave me the confidence to connect with people, build relationships, and trust my instincts.”

Her background in hospitality further prepared her for the business side of boutique ownership. Years of managing teams in luxury hotels gave her the service-driven mindset and organizational structure needed to run not just one, but two curated shops.

That combination of creativity and business acumen would prove essential when she stepped into Panache.

Stepping Into an Icon’s Shoes Panache had long been synonymous with founder Joan Lincoln, an icon in Rochester’s fashion community. Taking over such a beloved institution could have been intimidating, but Natalie embraced the challenge with grace.

One of the biggest surprises? The way she, herself, became intertwined with the brand.

“The biggest surprise has been how much I’ve become ‘the brand’ myself,” Natalie admits. “I absolutely love the connections with my customers and consignors but balancing that with running the business behind the scenes has been a challenge. I’ve had to learn that it’s okay not to always

be available — balance is essential.”

And balance is exactly what she has created: honoring the legacy of Panache while adding her own unique vision.

“My approach is to keep the essence of Panache exactly as people know and love it, while layering in my own touches,” she says. “That means keeping the high-quality curation intact but refreshing the store’s layout, color-coordinating the ‘consignment closet,’ and building a stronger digital presence through Instagram, social media, and our website. It’s been about evolution, not reinvention.”

A Luxury Experience Panache has never been about thrift or simple secondhand shopping. It’s about luxury, curation, and experience.

“We are extremely selective,” Natalie explains. “Every item is carefully inspected for quality, condition, and style before it ever hits the floor. We carry a mix of brands, but whether it’s a Louis Vuitton bag or a beautifully made contemporary piece, it has to meet our standards. That level of attention ensures our customers always feel they’re shopping a true luxury experience.”

What sets Panache apart, she emphasizes, is the personal touch.

“We’re not a thrift store — Panache is a curated luxury destination.

Beyond the merchandise itself, it’s our personal approach. We style our clients, offer advice when asked, and

build real relationships. Shopping here is more than just finding a piece — it’s personalized.”

This blend of high-end product and individualized service has kept Panache at the top of Rochester’s style scene for decades.

Staying Ahead While Staying True In fashion, trends shift daily, but Natalie knows that timeless appeal is what keeps Panache special.

“I keep an eye on social media, fashion magazines, and global style inspiration from my travels, but I also listen to our clients — they’re incredibly knowledgeable and love to share what excites them,” she says.

The result? A boutique that offers both trend-driven items and enduring classics. Through careful styling, thoughtful displays, and intentional curation, Panache helps clients see pieces in fresh new ways.

“Styling is also a big part of how we stay relevant,” Natalie adds. “Through our mannequins, window displays, and in-store conversations, we show clients how to wear pieces in fresh, modern ways while still honoring their classic appeal. It’s about curation, but also about education — helping people see the endless possibilities in the clothing they already love.”

Her advice to anyone aspiring to enter the fashion resale or boutique world? “Have fun with it and don’t

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“Rochester has such

a COLLABORATIVE creative community, and being a part of that as a FEMALE entrepreneur feels incredibly supportive. There’s a real sense of lifting each other up — we all want to see each other SUCCEED, and that energy pushes me forward.

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YOU ARE ENOUGH.

“Storytelling connects us to these pieces, reminding us that fashion and design can have many different stories — they carry history, culture, and meaning.”

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

overthink it. Fashion is meant to be personal and expressive, not intimidating. There will never be a ‘perfect’ time to start, so trust yourself, take risks, and put yourself out there. The time is always now.”

Sustainability at the Core One of the defining pillars of both Panache and Natalie Rae NY is sustainability. For Natalie, this isn’t just a business practice — it’s personal.

“Even before Panache, sustainability was central to my work with Natalie Rae — I was upcycling garments and handbags,” she says. “Fashion is one of the most wasteful industries in the world, and I believe it’s our responsibility to create in a way that doesn’t add to the problem.

Consignment is such a powerful solution: it gives beautiful items a second life and keeps fashion in circulation instead of in landfills.”

This ethos extends beyond clothing.

Natalie has also applied ecoconscious principles to home décor.

“We apply the same selective process to home décor as we do with fashion,” she explains. “We only accept items of quality and longevity, whether it’s an Arhaus sofa or a handcrafted accent piece. Because many of our clients consign with us again and again, we create this beautiful cycle of reuse and re-love that makes sustainability feel natural and stylish.”

To Natalie, “sustainable style” in 2025 means choosing pieces with intention.

“It’s about mixing secondhand with new in a way that feels modern, curating wardrobes and homes that reflect personal style without contributing to overconsumption.

Sustainability isn’t a trend anymore — it’s the future of fashion and design.”

Natalie Rae NY: Global Inspiration While Panache connects her to the Rochester community, Natalie Rae NY connects her to artisans across the globe. Her inspiration sparked while traveling through Vietnam.

“I came across artisans creating these incredible textiles by hand — everything from handwoven hemp to intricate batik patterns dyed with natural indigo,” she recalls. “I remember watching one woman work, her hands stained blue from the dye, and realizing the centuries of tradition that went into each piece.

In that moment, I knew I wanted to help share their artistry with the world while creating something sustainable and meaningful. That was the spark that became Natalie Rae NY!” Working with the Hmong and Dzao communities in Northern Vietnam has been life-changing.

“Their artistry, resilience, and sense of community are truly inspiring,” she says. “The Hmong and Dzao women carry forward techniques that have been passed down for generations, and every piece they create tells a story. I’m drawn to the way they honor tradition while adapting it to modern life, and I

feel privileged to build relationships that go far beyond business — it’s a cultural exchange rooted in respect!”

One of the most meaningful lessons she’s learned from them?

Patience. “Everything they do is slow, intentional, and made with care. In a world that often pushes for speed and mass production, they remind me that beauty comes from taking time, valuing craft, and creating with heart.”

Her favorite pieces — indigo-dyed handbags created with Hmong batik textiles — embody everything she stands for. “They represent the full circle of what Natalie Rae NY stands for — tradition, artistry, and sustainability, transformed into something modern and wearable.

Every time I carry one, it sparks conversation and lets me share the story of the women who made it.”

Fashion as Empowerment For Natalie, fashion is far more than clothing — it is empowerment.

“Fashion has always been my outlet for expression,” she says. “It’s given me the confidence to step into different roles — from hospitality manager to entrepreneur — while still staying true to myself. For me, fashion is about creativity. It empowers me to take risks, to evolve, and to share who I am without words.”

This belief shapes how she approaches both Panache and Natalie Rae NY. Storytelling is central. “Every piece has a story,” she says. “At Panache, it

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COVER STORY }} { { SHIFT+CONTROL { LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT } “Fashion is meant to be shared, and community is at the heart of Panache,” Natalie explains. “Events like Fashion Week Rochester give us a chance to connect beyond the boutique walls, to celebrate creativity as a city, and to show how fashion can also have purpose.”

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

might be a Chanel jacket that’s lived in someone’s closet and is ready for its next chapter, or at Natalie Rae NY, it’s a handbag created by artisans who’ve preserved their craft for generations.

Storytelling connects us to these pieces, reminding us that fashion and design can have many different stories — they carry history, culture, and meaning.”

and that energy pushes me forward.”

Through events like Fashion Week Rochester, Panache steps out of the boutique and onto the city stage.

“Fashion is meant to be shared, and community is at the heart of

And just as others have empowered her, Natalie is passionate about empowering women both locally and globally.

Her long-term vision?

To m a k e Pa n a c h e both a local hub and a leader in sustainable fashion. “I hope the legacy I leave is one of community: creating spaces and businesses where people feel inspired, connected, and proud to shop consciously.”

“Because I wouldn’t be here without the women who empowered me,” she says simply.

“From Joan passing me the torch at Panache, to the women artisans in Vietnam who trusted me with their work, to my clients who believe in what I do — it’s all rooted in women supporting women. Empowerment is a ripple effect: when one woman succeeds, she opens the door for another. That’s the kind of cycle I want my businesses to create.”

The Legacy of Panache At the end of the day, for Natalie Rae, life really is a runway. Every piece of clothing, every handbag, every collaboration tells a story of resilience, beauty, and empowerment.

Community & Collaboration Being a female entrepreneur in Rochester’s creative scene is something Natalie cherishes.

“It’s exciting and inspiring,” she says.

“Rochester has such a collaborative creative community, and being a part of that as a female entrepreneur feels incredibly supportive. There’s a real sense of lifting each other up — we all want to see each other succeed, 32

Looking ahead, Natalie has big plans. “Right now, I’m excited about expanding our online presence to reach even more people beyond Rochester,” she says. For Natalie Rae NY, new collaborations with artisans abroad are in the works, while Panache continues to evolve its constantly refreshed inventory.

Panache,” Natalie explains. “Events like Fashion Week Rochester give us a chance to connect beyond the boutique walls, to celebrate creativity as a city, and to show how fashion can also have purpose.”

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She is carrying forward a beloved legacy while weaving her own into its fabric — proving that fashion, when done with intention, can change the way we see ourselves, our community, and our world.

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GEANNA GINGELLO & THE GINGELLO AUTISM & WELLNESS FOUNDATION Interview with Founder, Geanna Gingello

the field for the betterment of your children’s health?

How has being a parent of a child on the spectrum changed over the years? What do you see differently?

With Sancia, I began my search for answers. I wanted to understand what regression meant and how I could best support her. When my son followed a similar path, that search turned into a mission. I needed to know how to best support them there had to be more than just speech and occupational therapy although they have been an INCREDIBLE help.

My journey as a parent on the spectrum began with my 2nd daughter, Sancia.

She was hitting all her milestones, growing as a “typical” child would and then regressed after a round of vaccines that caused a febrile seizure.

It impacted her speech and some sensory areas which we still work very hard on today. At the time, I didn’t fully understand what was happening, but it planted the seed that something deeper was at play.

When I had my son, it became even more prominent. After he turned one, he experienced regression as well, and that was the moment everything came into sharper focus. In the beginning, I felt overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn, but over the years I’ve grown to see things differently.

I no longer view autism through the lens of something to “fix.” Instead, I celebrate my children’s strengths, honor their differences, and meet them exactly where they are. While also trying to help them be the best version of themselves. They’ve taught me patience, resilience, and the beauty of finding joy in places most people overlook.

The science of autism is always evolving and covers many sectors of health and psychology.. how do you even begin to learn or understand

It truly feels like learning a language that never stops adding new words you never fully master it, but you keep learning because your child’s health depends on it. They depend on you to help and advocate for them.

I’ve studied research, connected with therapists, leaned into the brain-gut connection, and actively work with holistic providers and chiropractors to understand all the pieces. Each new discovery, whether through

science or lived experience becomes another tool I can use to give them a stronger foundation. I don’t chase cures. I look for ways to give them both the best chance at growth, independence, and health.

What is something you would suggest to parents with a newly diagnosed child with autism? How will medical care for your children change once they get to be 18, longterm care?

First, I’d tell them: don’t give up! this is not the end. Whether it was with my daughter or my son, I’ve learned that you are your child’s biggest advocate. Educate yourself. Build a support system of therapists, doctors, family, and friends who see your child’s potential, not just their diagnosis.

Long-term care is one of the things that weighs on me the most. My hope is always to help both of my children be as self-supportive as possible so they can live full, independent lives. But as a parent, the hardest part is knowing we won’t always be here. I often ask myself: who will step in when I no longer can? That’s why I never stop researching, advocating, and laying a foundation that will carry them long after me. Their care will evolve as they grow, but my mission is to give them every possible tool for the future.

You’ve had many influences in your life from working in the field of cannabis, to being a mother now seeking to expand your efforts into a foundation.

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{ { WOMAN WOMANWHO WHOINSPIRES INSPIRES } } “One of the biggest stigmas is that autism looks the same in every child.”

What inspired you to take on such a daunting challenge?

It started with my babies. Seeing both my daughter’s and my son’s journeys showed me how fragmented the system is. You get pieces of help here and there, but nothing that ties it all together. My background in cannabis also influenced me immensely, I saw how alternative therapies could truly change lives, yet stigma often blocked access to them.

Creating the Gingello Autism & Wellness Foundation isn’t just a passion project it became a necessity. I know I am not the only parent feeling lost, confused, or stuck between traditional and holistic care. This foundation is my way of closing those gaps, so no other parent feels as alone as I once did.

Are there any people or organizations that stand out to you as major influences for you to create the foundation?

Absolutely. First and foremost, my children. They are the heart of this foundation. They are the reason I will never stop looking for answers or help not just for them but for all kids on the spectrum.

Beyond them, the Golisano Autism Center has been a pivotal and influential piece of this ongoing puzzle. It really started with them for us here in Rochester, and they opened the door to so many resources we wouldn’t have known about otherwise.

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I carry a deep respect for the work they do, and one of my hopes is to eventually work alongside them to bridge the gap between the incredible services they provide and the holistic and wellness-based supports we want to expand access to.

I’ve also been deeply influenced by my children’s occupational and speech therapists, who gave us practical tools that made daily life manageable and hopeful. Holistic doctors and chiropractors have also shaped my understanding of what “whole-child” care really looks like.

And of course, other parents who turned their struggles into advocacy have inspired me to do the same.

So in truth, it’s been a mix: my kids, local organizations like Golisano, providers who think outside the box, and the gaps I’ve seen firsthand.

All of it has pushed me to create the Gingello Autism & Wellness Foundation.

With so many community groups nonprofits and even the Golisano autism center… what specifically will separate you from your peers in the Rochester autism community?

What separates us is that we’re not just focusing on therapy & education we’re focusing on the whole child and whole family. For both my daughter and my son, I’ve seen how important it is to treat not just their minds but their bodies and overall wellness. That means paying attention to nutrition, gut health, and complementary

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therapies that most families have no idea about!

While big centers do very vital important work, they can feel overwhelming and clinical. We’re building something more personal, a compassionate bridge that makes families feel seen and supported in every aspect of their journey.

What are some places in Rochester that you would consider part of your network regarding learning centers or tools for a parent of a child on the spectrum?

The most valuable supports for me have been my children’s occupational therapist and speech therapist.

They’ve given us strategies that extend beyond the therapy sessions and truly transform daily life. I’ve also leaned on holistic providers and our chiropractor, who bring in perspectives and care that traditional medicine often overlooks. Together, this network has been a lifeline for our family, showing me that progress comes when you look at the whole child, not just one piece of their development.

Please be candid, what are some of the stigmas attached to autism? Also, have you faced any discrimination or difficulties from the stigma yourself?

One of the biggest stigmas is that autism looks the same in every child.

People often think if a child is high functioning like Sancia, then autism “isn’t that hard.” Or if a child regresses

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“I know I am not the

ONLY PARENT feeling lost, confused, or stuck between traditional and HOLISTIC care. This foundation is my way of closing those GAPS, so no other parent feels as ALONE as I once did.

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{{ WOMAN WOMAN { SHIFT+CONTROL WHO WHOINSPIRES INSPIRES } }} “Long-term care is one of the things that weighs on me the most. My hope is always to help both of my children be as self-supportive as possible so they can live full, independent lives.”

like my son, they make judgments about parenting. The reality is autism is a spectrum, and every child’s journey is unique.

Yes, I’ve faced stigma. I’ve felt the stares when my son struggles in public, and I’ve heard the quiet judgments. It hurts, but it also fuels me. Every time I encounter stigma, I’m reminded why this work matters because judgment always comes from a lack of understanding.

Tell us about FlynnStoned! What role does this dispensary play in your life? What are some things you’d like to share about how it opened and your position?

FlynnStoned is a dream my husband and his partners brought to life, and I couldn’t be prouder of them. I support as the social media manager and by helping with events and community connections. Watching them grow from a vision into a thriving business has been amazing. It’s more than just a dispensary it’s a movement that’s creating opportunities for Rochester and changing perceptions around cannabis. Being able to stand by my husband and see him and his partners live out their dream has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m so excited for what’s ahead as FlynnStoned continues to grow.

Tell us about your family? How do you find a strong work life balance for all your projects, hobbies and work life?

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My family is everything to me. All 3 of my children have taught me lessons that changed the way I view life. Balancing motherhood, work, and passion projects isn’t easy, but my kids give me perspective. They remind me to celebrate the small things, to laugh, and to keep going.

My husband is also my rock his support makes it possible for me to chase big dreams while still being present at home.

Some days the balance tips more one way than the other, and that’s okay. What matters is that my family always stays at the heart of all I do.

What advice would you give to a woman interested in exploring a new career in her 30s?

Do it. Don’t let fear tell you it’s too late. Your 30s are actually the perfect time you know yourself better, you’ve lived through enough to be resilient, and you still have so much room to grow. Starting something new doesn’t erase where you’ve been; it builds on it. Every struggle and every success prepares you for the next chapter.

Your 30’s are just the beginning ladies!

You have also shared that you are proud of your heritage, how has your heritage affected your life and influenced you?

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve really leaned into and cherished my Hispanic/latino heritage. Growing up, I didn’t always recognize how deeply it shaped me, but now I see the strength, resilience,

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and pride that come from that side of my family. Even though I’m not Spanish-speaking, the culture runs through me the traditions, the values, the love of family and community.

It has also given me a stronger voice as a Hispanic/Latina woman, one who wants to represent others who may feel caught between cultures or overlooked. For me, embracing my heritage means honoring my roots while also using my platform to be a voice for other Latinas, showing that there’s no one “right” way to embody culture it’s in your blood, your heart, and how you carry it forward.

That pride also guides my work with the Gingello Autism & Wellness Foundation. I know Latino/Hispanic families often face unique barriers in accessing autism care and wellness support, and representation matters.

By bringing my heritage into this mission, I hope to make families feel seen, included, and empowered on their journeys.

RFK has specifically spoken about dietary problems in the United States and the link between autism and certain foods. Has RFK‘s discussion of this been explored by you?

Yes, and honestly, I’ve been exploring it LONG before it became a bigger public conversation. With my daughter, I noticed changes connected to food & screen time, and when my son regressed after a year old, diet became an even bigger focus.

I saw firsthand how gluten, dairy,

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{{ WOMAN WOMANWHO WHOINSPIRES INSPIRES }} “I no longer view autism through the lens of something to “fix.” Instead, I celebrate my children’s strengths, honor their differences, and meet them exactly where they are.”

and processed foods impacted their behavior, energy, and overall wellness.

That led me to research the gut-brain connection and how diet plays into autism.

RFK has helped bring this conversation into the spotlight, which I think is important. But for me, it’s always been very personal. I’ve seen how dietary changes can improve my children’s lives day-to-day, which is why nutrition and wellness are at the heart of our foundation’s mission.

When you’re having a difficult time, what or who do you rely on to give you strength?

Always my kids and my husband.

My children remind me of why I keep pushing forward, and they bring so much joy into our home.

My husband has been my constant rock, the one who keeps me steady when things feel heavy. Together, they give me the strength to keep fighting for a better future for them, for our family, and for the families we serve through this foundation.

When can we expect a launch for this foundation? Are you going to start with grassroots community work as well?

The Gingello Autism & Wellness Foundation is still in its building stages, but my vision is to officially launch within the coming year.

Right now, I’m focused on laying the strongest possible foundation creating partnerships, building resources,

and ensuring that when we launch, families immediately feel supported.

Yes, we’re absolutely starting with grassroots community work. That’s where real change happens, by listening to families, meeting them where they are, and addressing the gaps they face every day. Rochester is my home, and this community is where I want to plant the first seeds. From there, I hope to grow outward, but it starts right here, with local families who need to know they’re not alone.

You married into a name that carries a lot of history and prominence in Rochester.

day, that this family name is tied to progress, pride, and a future Rochester can believe in.

Stay Tuned for more information on the foundation, fundraising events and more in late 2025 and 2026.

What does it mean for you to be a Gingello?

Becoming a Gingello was more than just taking a name it was stepping into a legacy that everyone in Rochester knows. I carry that name with pride. I stand with my husband, side by side, determined to honor his family’s history while pushing toward a stronger, brighter future.

We’re not here to live in the shadows of the past whether that be good to some or bad to others, we’re here to transform it. Through business, community work, and our autism & wellness foundation, we are not perfect but committed to making the Gingello name stand for resilience, opportunity, and love for this city.

For me, being a Gingello is about claiming the legacy and reshaping it. It’s about proving, every single ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: AUGUST/SEPTEMBER EDITION 2025

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Are you concerned about yourself or someone else?

Are you grieving the loss of someone to suicide?

Do you want to learn more about suicide prevention?

Who We Are Partners for Suicide Prevention is committed to ensuring that community members of all ages have access to accurate suicide prevention resources to help themselves and/or a loved one. As a multi-partner coalition, facilitated by the Mental Health Association of Rochester, we promote a collaborative approach to raise awareness on suicide prevention, intervention, post-vention, and recovery.

We are dedicated to providing hope and resilience through community collaboration.

Visit our Website:

suicidepreventioncoalition.org

Join the Coalition:

vway@mharochester.org

Make a Donation:

JOURNEY TO SUCCESS WOMEN WHO INSPIRE {{{ WOMAN { SHIFT+CONTROL INSPIRES } }}}

MAGGIE COLEMAN YOU ARE ENOUGH. ROC GIRL WALKS

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

When it comes to following your passion, Maggie Coleman is living proof that sometimes the best paths unfold when you take a leap of faith.

Today, she’s a thriving Rochester realtor who has built her career around one simple yet powerful value: connection.

For Maggie, real estate is more than buying and selling—it’s about being there for people during one of the most important decisions of their lives.

With a natural gift for building trust and forming genuine relationships, she has quickly made her mark in the Rochester housing market.

But Maggie’s story didn’t begin with open houses and closings. Before real estate, she was working in steel construction, a steady job that paid the bills but left her yearning for more. “I knew I wanted to work for myself and build something of my own,” she shares. A family friend suggested real estate, and once she took the plunge, everything clicked.

“The rest is history! Now I get to do what I love every single day—helping people and making real connections.”

That same love for people and community extends beyond her real estate career. As the founder of ROC Girl Walks, Maggie has created a powerful local movement centered on wellness, connection, and women supporting women. What began as a simple idea—bringing women together for casual walks—has blossomed into a sisterhood that continues to grow each week. Through both her professional and personal passions, Maggie is weaving together a life that’s 54

rooted in empowerment, authenticity, and the belief that connection changes everything. Career in Real Estate

about their next chapter. Being part of that moment and knowing they’re going to feel at home here just never gets old!

What inspired you to pursue a career in real estate, and how did What sets you apart from other you get your start? realtors, and how do you ensure your What got me into real estate is clients feel supported throughout honestly my love for being there the process? for people during big moments in What sets me apart is the level of their lives. I’ve always cared a lot care and connection I bring to every about connection and trust, and this client relationship. This isn’t just a job lets me build real relationships transaction to me. I know it’s a huge while helping people through one of life moment, and I truly take that to the biggest decisions they’ll make. heart. I make it a priority to listen, It feels so good to support someone communicate openly, and be there and know they feel cared for every every step of the way. My clients know step of the way. I actually started they can count on me to be honest, out working at a steel construction responsive, and fully in their corner. company, which was okay, but deep I truly want them to feel supported, down I knew I wanted to work for confident, and cared for throughout myself and build something of my the entire journey own. A family friend suggested real estate might be a good fit, and that How has the Rochester housing stuck with me. Once I started looking market evolved since you began into it and took the plunge, everything your real estate career? just fell into place. The rest is history!

Since I started, the Rochester market Now I get to do what I love! helping has grown a lot for sure! There’s more people and making real connections demand and people are really seeing PHOTOS BY ROBYN BATY PHOTOGRAPHY every day. the value in living here. It’s been exciting to watch the city evolve What do you love most about helping while still keeping its charm and people buy or sell a home in the strong sense of community.

Rochester area?

What I love most about helping people What advice would you give buy or sell a home in the Rochester first-time homebuyers in today’s area is just how special this community competitive market?

My advice to first-time buyers is to is! It’s such a welcoming place, with so many unique neighborhoods stay patient and stay hopeful! It can and such a sense of pride. Whether feel competitive, but with the right someone’s new to the area or moving support and a little guidance, you’ll within it, it’s amazing to help them find the perfect home. find the right fit and feel excited

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In The Beautiful Cornhill Neighborhood

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JOURNEY TO SUCCESS WOMEN WHO INSPIRE {{ WOMAN { SHIFT+CONTROL WHO INSPIRES } }}} “Roc Girl Walks started because I wanted to create a fun, easy way for women to connect “and get outside and active together.

How do you balance your career in real estate with your passion project, ROC Girl Walks?

It’s all about keeping things balanced and not sweating the small stuff. Real estate keeps me busy, but Roc Girl Walks is my way to chill, connect, and give back. I make sure to carve out time for both so I can show up for my clients and still do what I love outside of work. It’s a bit of a juggle, but it works!

something meaningful, a community that celebrates and empowers her just as she is.

What has been the most surprising or rewarding part of creating this walking sisterhood?

Honestly, the most surprising thing has been just how fulfilling this whole experience has been, like way more than I ever imagined. It’s amazing to see how something so simple like walking together can create such a

ROC Girl Walks: Building a Movement What inspired you to start ROC Girl Walks, and how did it go from an idea to a growing community? Roc Girl Walks started because I wanted to create a fun, easy way for women to connect and get outside and active together. What began as a small idea quickly grew because people were looking for community and support.

It’s been so rewarding to watch it bring women together and create real friendships.

How would you describe the mission of ROC Girl Walks in your own words?

The mission of Roc Girl Walks is really about creating a welcoming space where women feel seen, supported, and connected. It’s more than just walking- it’s about building friendships, sharing stories, and lifting each other up. I want every woman who joins to feel like she’s part of

strong, supportive sisterhood. The friendships and connections that have come from it truly mean so much to me.

Can you share a favorite memory or powerful moment that happened during one of your walks?

One of my favorite memories is when someone finally showed up for their first walk after months of chatting because they were really nervous. They came solo, and it was awesome to see them jump right in, make friends,

and swap numbers with everyone.

Moments like that just show how welcoming and special this group really is.

How have the walks impacted your own physical and mental wellness?

The walks have really been a lifeline for me, both physically and mentally.

There’s something so comforting about getting outside, moving my body, and sharing that time with such supportive women. I’m so grateful for this community and what it brings to my life.

How do you choose the locations for your walks, and what are some of your favorite spots around Rochester?

I like to sprinkle walks all over Rochester to keep things fresh and fun, but I always make sure to consider the distance tooaiming for around 3 miles so it’s a comfortable pace for everyone. Parking is important too, so I look for spots with plenty of space for our group.

Some of my favorite places include the the paths along the Erie Canal, and the beach and wooded vibe of Durand Eastman. Rochester has so many great spots, and I love exploring them with the group!

What kind of feedback have you received from women who participate in the walks?

Honestly, the feedback has been awesome. So many women tell me how

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{{ WOMAN WHO INSPIRES { SHIFT+CONTROL } }}} JOURNEY TO SUCCESS WOMEN WHO INSPIRE “What sets me apart is the level of care and connection I bring to every client relationship.

This isn’t just a transaction to me.”

much they love having a, welcoming space to just be themselves, get moving, and connect with others. It’s really cool to hear how these walks have become something they look forward to- not just for exercise, but for the community and support too.

In addition to walking, what other kinds of events or activities does ROC Girl Walks offer or plan to offer in the future?

We’re really excited to keep growing! Besides the walks, we’ve been doing fun things like a board game days, a Pilates collab, a clothing exchange, and there’s a lot more exciting stuff on the way. It’s all about creating a space where women can connect, have fun, and support each other in lots of different ways.

Social media has been key to growing our community and sharing what we’re about. It helps us connect with women, spread the word, and show the supportive vibe of Roc Girl Walks even before we meet in person.

What do you hope every woman

Empowering Women & Creating Community ROC Girl Walks has helped hundreds of women connect and build friendships. Why do you think that connection is so important today? Connection matters so much today because life can get busy and lonely. This group gives women a chance to slow down, be themselves, and build real friendships that bring support and joy.

What role does social media play in growing your community and spreading your message?

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walks away with—literally and figuratively—after joining ROC Girl Walks?

I hope every woman who joins Roc Girl Walks walks away feeling a little friendlier, more connected, and inspired to put herself out there more. Whether that’s trying new things, making new friends, or just stepping outside of their comfort zone. It’s all about creating a space where you feel supported to grow

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and enjoy the journey, both literally and figuratively.

What’s your vision for the future of ROC Girl Walks, and how can other women in Rochester get involved?

My vision for Roc Girl Walks is to keep evolving and making it even better for everyone involved. I’d love to add more walks around Rochester and maybe bring on some helpers so it’s not just me leading everything.

We want to keep creating spaces where women feel supported, connected, and inspired. If you want to get involved or learn more, just email me at maggie@rocgirwalks. com- I’d love to hear from you and welcome you to the community!

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IT’S KYLA KAYLA YOU ARENOT ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS

BY NSP STUDIO PHOTOS BY NINA PICCINI

When you first hear the name “It’s Kyla Not Kayla,” it immediately sparks curiosity—and that’s exactly the point.

For founder and certified Style Coach Kyla, the name is more than a playful correction; it’s a personal declaration of identity and empowerment. Growing up, people constantly mispronounced her name, and as a shy child, she often let it slide, shrinking herself to avoid discomfort. But as she grew into her power, Kyla learned that honoring her own voice, even in something as simple as her name, was a radical act of selfrespect. “It’s Kyla Not Kayla is a homage to my journey of allowing myself to be seen, heard, and even misunderstood s o m e t i m e s ,” s h e explains. “Because being seen is actually doing the world a favor.”

That philosophy runs through everything Kyla does, from coaching women on personal style to guiding them through deeper transformations in identity and visibility. Her path into the fashion world wasn’t traditional. She began her career in the fast-paced world of technology, surrounded by brilliant women who often struggled with expressing their power through style.

Kyla saw the disconnect—women excelling in their fields but hiding behind muted wardrobes or selflimiting beliefs. That realization became her calling. With a certification in Style Coaching from the London 66

College of Fashion, she built a career helping women align their outer presence with their inner brilliance.

Today, Kyla proudly calls herself the “go-to style coach for brilliant women,” and she means it. From lawyers to creatives, her clients are women who have mastered their industries but have neglected their own visibility, often falling into the “let your work speak for itself ” trap. Kyla’s mission is to shift that narrative, showing

women that how they show up in the world—through clothing, mindset, and presence—is an extension of their power. Her work isn’t just about style; it’s about rewriting self-concepts, banishing fears of being seen, and creating wardrobes that empower women to take the stage, command rooms, and thrive unapologetically.

Let’s start with the name! What’s the story behind “It’s Kyla Not Kayla”?

People always got my name wrong as a kid, and back then, I was shy

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and terrified of taking up space, so I would allow people to call me Kayla for months before correcting them. After years of playing small, I cultivated the art of correcting people on my name with confidence and grace. It’s Kyla Not Kayla is a homage to my journey of allowing myself to be seen, heard, and even misunderstood sometimes, knowing that my being seen is actually doing the world a favor.

How did your journey in fashion begin, and what led you to become a certified Style Coach through the London College of Fashion?

I started my career in technology, working at a fast-paced start-up.

While working, I had the privilege of being surrounded by brilliant women, but I noticed many of them struggled to find a way to express their power. That’s when the lightbulb went off for me! I realized there was a gap in how women, especially those in male-dominated industries, approach their personal style. The way they presented themselves could directly impact how they showed up and, ultimately, how they navigated their careers.

When I decided to pivot into personal styling, I got certified by the London College of Fashion, and that experience was invaluable. I had the natural gifts, but learning in a formal setting

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“It’s KYLA Not

Kayla is a homage to my journey of allowing myself to be seen, HEARD, and even misunderstood sometimes, knowing that my being seen is actually doing the world a FAVOR.

”

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STYLED WITH { SHIFT+CONTROL } }} WOMEN WHOPURPOSE INSPIRE {{{ WOMAN WHO INSPIRES “Releasing what doesn’t align anymore! This is a very underrated part of the transformation.”

really honed my abilities, giving me the foundation and confidence I needed to help any woman that came my way.

You call yourself the “go-to style coach for brilliant women.” Who is the woman you serve—and what makes her ‘brilliant’?

I serve a diverse group of women, from lawyers to astrologers, but they all have one thing in common: they are extremely knowledgeable women who’ve fallen into the “let your work speak for you” trap. My clients come to me when their careers and businesses shift, and the spotlight is now on them. They want to evolve from hiding behind their desk to taking the stage, and they need their style to support their visibility.

You talk about aligning your style with the next level of your life. What does that transformation typically look like for your clients?

Releasing what doesn’t align anymore!

This is a very underrated part of the transformation. Before we buy a single item of clothing, clients and I go through a process to determine who they desire to show up as, and then we get rid of anything that is not that. This is a key part of the journey because getting dressed is actually a daily practice in identity work, and if you’re saying, “this is who I am now,” but you’re looking in the mirror and you’re not seeing that, your brain will call BS on you. And that is never a good feeling, nor is it conducive to your new self-concept.

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What are the most common style blocks or self-limiting beliefs women come to you with—and how do you help them overcome those?

There are many! But here are the five biggest blocks I see daily. If you’re reading this, don’t be surprised if one or two feel familiar to you: 1. Style is vanity, not a necessity, so I’ll focus on it when everything else is handled.

2. I lost my spark, and I don’t know how to get it back. I don’t even know what I like.

3. I’m not ready for style yet. Style is for special people with perfect bodies or lavish lifestyles.

4. If I become stylish, I won’t be relatable, I’ll make others uncomfortable, and I won’t belong anymore.

5. I should be able to figure this style thing out on my own. What kind of woman doesn’t know how to get dressed?

Tell us more about the style archetype.

What is it, and why is it essential in building a personalized and empowered wardrobe?

I created my signature style archetypes based on the traditional seven feminine archetypes. Please note, these feminine archetypes aren’t about wearing pink or being lady-like; they’re about power — one of my favorite topics! We all have each of the seven archetypes in us, but usually one or two are our dominant energies.

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The style archetypes are about playing up your strengths and strategically balancing your weak points so you can effectively dress for self-expression.

If you’d like to discover your style archetype, head to itskylanotkayla. com/quiz and find out in under 3 minutes.

How do body, color, and facial analysis come into play when helping someone redefine their style?

Analysis is for guidelines, not dogmatic rules. These guidelines bring structure so we can create a functional closet with the client’s personality in mind.

For example, you may have a Queen style archetype, but what does that look like on your Strawberry body type? How will we build a color palette for your closet? Furthermore, how do we translate your dream looks to your daily life, from Wegmans to the office? We get all those answers and more with body, color, and facial analysis.

You mention “banishing the fear of being seen.” Why do you think so many women struggle with visibility through style?

The fear of being seen starts somewhere between cultural narratives, wellmeaning family members, and the middle school cafeteria. As women, there are signals everywhere encouraging us to put ourselves last with the promise that we’ll be “safer” if we do. But to be honest, playing small is one of the most dangerous things a woman can do. Before she knows it, she’s shrinking and hiding instead of thriving.

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{ SHIFT+CONTROL } }} STYLED WITH WOMEN WHOPURPOSE INSPIRE {{{ WOMAN WHO INSPIRES “When I decided to pivot into personal styling, I got certified by the London College of Fashion, and that experience was invaluable.”

Getting over the fear of being seen begins with seeing yourself first.

By that, I mean getting really clear about your desires and what those desires will require from you. That’s where your quality of life skyrockets!

And most women never get the opportunity to do this. That’s why I take the work of personal styling so seriously. There will be tears and laughter, but most of all, there will be self-discovery.

Your work goes beyond fashion into deeper self-expression and inner transformation. How do you integrate mindset into styling?

Your style is a major indicator of your inner world. A cluttered closet is a messy mind, wearing dull colors is hiding from the world, and keeping old clothes is a denial of our current reality. The list goes on. My personal styling business is rooted in identity work because that’s what we’re actually adjusting when clients invest in styling; it’s much bigger than appearance.

What are some key pieces every woman should have in her closet right now—no matter her style archetype?

I have an entire list of items that span all four seasons inside my Closet Essentials Checklist. But I will always say every woman needs a great pair of jeans to make her feel HOT. And trust me when I say, any woman can feel hot… I promise! The key is finding the fit that flatters your body, a comfortable quality material, and a pair that will last for years.

Fast fashion is overwhelming and often unsustainable. How do you help clients shop with intention instead of impulse?

My philosophy is rooted in sustainability, not only because it’s better for Mother Earth, but it’s also better for your style! You don’t need to “keep up” with trends or have clothes pouring out of your closet. You need to buy less and buy better. By that, I mean finding pieces that are wellmade, aligned to your personality, and interchangeable with the rest of your wardrobe.

I suggest starting with better shopping habits: 1. Shop four times a year or less.

Start by adjusting your thoughts about your personal style. If you feel clueless, know it’s not about you lacking anything but a solid framework to help you make confident style decisions. Sometimes we fall into self-criticism that’s really unhelpful and anti-solution. Instead of asking yourself, “What’s wrong with me?” ask yourself, “What’s wrong with my approach?”

You offer a “Shopping Calendar” that helps women avoid fashion burnout. What’s the philosophy behind it, and how does it work?

I am actually retiring this offer in the next few weeks.

Tell us about your Closet Essentials Checklist. How is it more than just a shopping list?

The Closet Essentials Checklist plays a few different roles. It helps you assess the gaps in your existing wardrobe, make strategic shopping decisions, and expand your wardrobe so you can create more outfits by mixing and matching. Think of the checklist as a guide to a wardrobe that gives you a higher return on your “investment.”

What’s been your most powerful transformation story working with a client?

Can I say all of them? If I have to choose one, I’d say a client of mine in Buffalo. She was in a deeply transformative season. I’m talking job change, divorce, empty-nest season, and major weight loss all wrapped up in one. For her, elevating her style wasn’t about the clothes; it was about making up for every promise she had broken to herself in the past. In our session, she rebuilt her self-trust by stepping into the woman she actually desired to be. We turned her dream into her reality. Trust me when I say tears were shed! In the end, she was so happy with her transformation, she gifted a session to her daughter.

What’s one small change someone can make today that would immediately elevate their style confidence?

How do you see fashion as a tool for empowerment, not just aesthetics?

Getting dressed is a daily habit we

2. Use a shopping list for clothes the same way you would for groceries.

3. Buy second-hand items (think consignment or vintage) to find high-quality, one-of-a-kind pieces.

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all have to do. And, oftentimes, we treat it like a chore versus an energetic act. Every time you get ready for the day, you’re actually practicing identity work. It’s your daily reminder of who you are, how far you’ve come, and who you’re becoming before you step out into the world.

What advice would you give to women who say, “I’m just not stylish” or “I can’t pull that off”?

I hear variations of I’ll start dressing better when I lose the weight, get the promotion, or have more time all the 76

time. It all translates to “I’m not good enough.” This belief keeps women in limbo and reinforces the idea that you don’t deserve self-expression.

Instead of claiming your desires, you stay in your comfort zone even when it doesn’t feel comfortable anymore.

My advice is to shift your perspective on what style really is. Style is a form of self-respect that evolves with you through every phase of life.

What’s next for It’s Kyla Not Kayla?

Any exciting projects, programs, or style experiences we should watch for?

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I am so excited for our next rollout!

As I mentioned before, I am a techie, and next up, I’m pairing my love for style with my tech skills to develop really innovative services. From AI assistants that give you expert style advice on demand to supporting brilliant women in monetizing their minds with AI. I believe in the impact of style on your perception in real life, but also in building your credibility online. The next chapter is about future-proofing yourself IRL and URL in a fast-paced world. For more on that, join my email list!

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{ HER STORY HER POWER }

LISA YAHN For Lisa Yahn, life has always been about helping others feel their best—inside and out. A Rochester-area native with deep community roots, Lisa grew up surrounded by family, 4-H, and a lifelong love of animals, especially horses. That small-town sense of connection and hard work has stayed with her, shaping the way she approaches both her personal and professional life. She is a proud mother to her 28-year-old son and someone who has never stopped evolving in pursuit of purpose.

For 25 years, Lisa built a thriving career as a hairstylist, transforming more than hair— she helped people walk out of her chair with confidence, self-assurance, and a smile.

Though she has since stepped away from the salon full time, she still loves picking up the scissors from time to time, because as she puts it, “It’s in my blood.” But her career path took a powerful turn in 2018, when she shifted her focus from outer beauty to whole-body transformation.

Stepping into the health and wellness space, Lisa discovered a new calling—one that allowed her to not just help people look good, but to truly feel good, thrive, and live healthier lives.

That transition was deeply personal.

In 2013, Lisa’s father passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on her birthday, an event that reshaped her perspective and became the catalyst for change. “That was the moment everything shifted,” Lisa shares. “I knew I had to do something bigger, something

that would make an impact not only for me but for my family and others, too.” What began as a search for healing and growth became her life’s mission: empowering others to take control of their health, energy, and confidence.

Today, Lisa is an independent influencer with Beneve, a wellness company built on heart, integrity, and the idea of “people doing good together.” Her role is more

Tell us a little about yourself—what’s your background and how has your career evolved over the years?

I’m a Rochester-area native—born and raised right here in Upstate New York.

I’m a daughter, a mom to a 28-year-old son, and a proud former 4-H girl who once showed cows and has always had a deep love for horses. My roots run deep in this community, and I’ve spent my life helping people feel their best.

I spent 25 years behind the chair as a hairstylist, building relationships and confidence one appointment at a time.

While I’ve since retired from the salon full time, I still love doing hair here and there—it’s in my blood. In 2018, I stepped into a new chapter as a BP in the health and wellness field, where I now help women—and men— transform their health, energy, and confidence through wellness and community. My career has evolved from outer beauty to full-body transformation, and it’s been the most rewarding journey yet.

than a business—it’s a mission, one that combines her passion for wellness with her natural ability to build trust and inspire others. By leading with authenticity and sharing her own wellness journey, she has been able to connect with countless people who are ready for transformation. For Lisa, it’s never about selling a product—it’s about serving people, lifting them up, and helping them discover what’s possible when they choose to invest in themselves.

What inspired your path into the world of wellness, beauty, or consulting? Was it something you always saw yourself doing?

I always knew I loved helping people feel beautiful—that’s what led me to hairstyling. But deep down, I felt like there was something more I was meant to do. In 2013, I was introduced to the beauty and wellness industry—but it wasn’t just a new opportunity. That same year, my dad passed away suddenly from a heart attack on my birthday. It

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{ HER STORY HER POWER } “In 2017, I made the decision to take control of my health. I had struggled for years with yo-yo dieting and fluctuating weight—and I was ready to make real changes.”

was a moment that changed everything.

From that day on, I knew I had to step into something bigger—something that could help not just me, but my family too. That’s when wellness became purpose. Helping people look good will always be part of who I am—but helping them feel good, thrive, and take control of their health? That’s what lights me up now.

How did you get involved with the Beneve product line, and what is your role as a consultant?

In 2017, I made the decision to take control of my health. I had struggled for years with yo-yo dieting and fluctuating weight—and I was ready to make real changes. That year, I was introduced to an opportunity that aligned perfectly with where I was headed. It was through that experience that I met two people who would later become dear friends, mentors, and the co-founders of Beneve.

From 2017 to 2023, we worked together in other companies that didn’t quite align with our vision—but the connection and belief we shared never wavered.

In May 2023, Beneve was born. This wasn’t just another product line. Beneve means “people doing good together,” and that’s exactly what we’re doing. As an independent influencer with Beneve, I help others transform their wellness, confidence, and energy—just like I did.

This is my mission now, and I’m all in.

What about Beneve’s mission or products resonated with you enough to want to be part of their growth?

I’ve always heard the saying: “When you help people get what they want,

you’ll get what you want.” But I didn’t truly understand it until I met Judy and Mark—the founders of Beneve—back in 2018 at a large event with over 1,500 people. Everyone I met had a story about how they had personally impacted their lives. At the end of that weekend, I sat in an office with Judy and my girlfriend, and she opened her heart to us like we’d known each other forever.

That moment changed everything. I knew I had found the right people. So when Beneve was created, built on heart and integrity and backed by products that work, I knew I had to be part of it. It’s not just business—it’s belonging.

And that’s what makes this journey so meaningful.

in this space?

A day in the life as an independent influencer with Beneve always starts with one thing—taking care of me.

If we’re not good within ourselves, we can’t show up for others. My mornings begin with my coffee and a few quiet moments, followed by a 3 to 6 mile outdoor walk six to seven days a week.

I also strength train in the gym four days a week to continue building both physical and mental strength.

After that, it’s a mix of team calls, customer check-ins, content creation, Zoom trainings, or travel—no two days are the same, but every day is rooted in purpose. I’ve built a business that supports my life, not one that takes over it.

How do you use your experience and background to help guide product strategy or outreach for Beneve?

I lead by example. I share my life, my routine, and my results honestly because I believe people connect with real. As someone who’s been on this journey myself, I know how overwhelming wellness can feel—and I always try to keep things simple and relatable.

What are some key values or philosophies you bring into every project or brand you work with?

Authenticity is everything to me. My dad taught me from a young age that your word is your bond. He did business on a handshake, and I carry that same energy into everything I do. Whether I’m working with clients or mentoring my team, people always come before profit.

My background as a hairstylist taught me how to listen and build trust. Now, as an independent influencer with Beneve, I use those same skills to connect with people who are ready for change. I also bring feedback directly to our leadership team so they know what customers are asking for, loving, or needing more support with. It’s never about selling—it’s about serving.

I also believe in consistency—showing up every day even when it’s hard. And most of all, I believe in empowering others. Helping someone smile, feel seen, or believe in themselves again?

That’s the kind of impact I strive for.

What does a “day in the life” look like for you as a consultant and professional

What’s something people might be surprised to learn about the work you do behind the scenes?

People may not realize how much time, heart, and energy goes into this work—but I truly love it. I work with

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a powerful community of like-minded men and women, and while I set my own schedule, I often work early mornings and late nights because it’s fun and fulfilling. Some days I’m on calls until 11 p.m. and back at it by 6 a.m. Other days I might pause to go to the beach, hit the gym, or catch a movie with my son—and that balance is everything.

I’ve also fallen in love with content creation, which still surprises me. But I keep things real and simple, because I want the person on the other side of the screen to feel like they can do this too. Because they absolutely can.

What advice do you have for women looking to pivot careers or step into more consulting or leadership roles?

Take the leap. You’ll never regret betting on yourself—but you’ll always wonder “what if?” if you don’t. There’s a line from a Sugarland song that’s stuck with me for years: “Happiness is something you create.”

I’m all about moving forward. I’ve had to start over, pivot, and walk away from comfort zones—and I’m better for every one of those choices. If you feel that pull in your gut, that whisper that says “there’s something more,” it’s there for a reason. Trust it. Do it scared. Because what do you really have to lose?

The woman you’re becoming is waiting for you to stop playing small.

How do you stay grounded and motivated, especially when juggling different roles and collaborations?

My people. That’s the honest answer.

The Beneve community is more than a team—it’s a family. And beyond that, my son, my mom, my close friends, and 86

my boyfriend keep me grounded and remind me what truly matters.

I also never forget where I came from.

I’ve struggled. I’ve started over. I’ve had moments where I couldn’t see the next day, let alone the next success. That’s why I stay humble, grateful, and consistent.

Mindset is everything. If you don’t protect it, you’ll start believing limits that were never meant for you.

Are there any mentors, life experiences, or lessons that have shaped how you show up in your work today?

I’ve always believed that life is full of lessons—and some of them we have to learn more than once! But one story stands out.

A few years ago, I reconnected with a high school friend I hadn’t seen in over 30 years. As we were catching up, she asked me, “If you could change anything about your life since we last saw each other, would you?” I thought for a second, and said, “No.” Because even the hard times shaped me. One small change could have shifted everything— and I wouldn’t trade this version of me for anything.

So yes, I’ve had mentors. I’ve had struggles. But it’s been the living that’s shaped who I am. And that’s how I show up now—in business and in life: grounded in growth, grateful for the journey, and always open to the next lesson.

What does success look like to you now, and how has that definition changed over time?

Success used to be about money, trips, and titles. But after my dad passed away, I made a promise to myself to

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find something more—something that would allow me to help my mom, ease her burdens, and take care of my family.

Today, success means freedom. It means seeing my team win. Watching someone finally feel like themselves again. Helping others reclaim their confidence, their health, financial freedom, and their joy. It’s peace. It’s purpose. And most of all—it’s knowing that I’m living a life that matters, while helping others do the same.

Outside of your professional life, what are you passionate about or involved in?

I’m passionate about helping others become the best version of themselves— mind, body, and soul. I love spending time with the people I love—my son, my mom, my boyfriend, my friends.

I love to travel, meet new people, and create memories. Life’s too short not to live it.

And I’ll always be that girl from 4-H who loves horses and believes in working hard, staying humble, and always growing.

What’s next for you—are there any personal or professional goals you’re excited to pursue in the near future?

We’re just getting started at Beneve. The momentum is building and the future is so bright. I’m especially excited for the launch of our new performance line—it’s going to change the game.

But personally? I just want to keep helping people. More confidence. More energy. More freedom. I want to be that person who helps someone take their first step—because that step changes everything.

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YOU ENOUGH. THE ARE K-BEAUTY TEAM

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

BYC K-Beauty Store: Bringing Korean Skincare to the Capital Region and Beyond When passion meets purpose, something extraordinary is born.

For the founders of BYC K-Beauty Store, what began as a personal love for Korean skincare quickly evolved into a mission: to make high-quality K-Beauty products accessible, authentic, and affordable for U.S. customers.

As registered nurses, the team was already grounded in the science of health and wellness, but they wanted to create something sustainable, something they loved doing, and something that could truly impact lives.

The spark came in the most unexpected way— during a self-applied facial party they organized inside a shopping mall in Albany, NY. Friends and family showed up, but so did curious shoppers who stumbled across the event. They asked for product recommendations, sourcing advice, and skincare tips, many admitting they didn’t know where to find reliable K-Beauty products locally. That day planted the seed for what would become BYC K-Beauty Store—the first dedicated Korean skincare store in the Capital Region.

“People were hungry for these products,” the founders explained.

“They wanted the routines and the results they kept seeing on social media, but access was limited. We knew we could bridge that gap.”

From that moment, BYC K-Beauty Store was built on a foundation of accessibility, authenticity, and community. Today, the brand has already grown into a trusted destination

knew the frustrations of ordering K-Beauty products directly from Korea all too well: long shipping delays, high costs, customs holdups, and uncertainty about whether products were authentic. Those challenges didn’t just inspire the business idea—they shaped its model.

By partnering directly with RIMAN, the #1 beauty company in Korea, and sourcing only from trusted suppliers, B YC e l i m i n a t e d t h e guesswork. With multiple U.S.-based warehouses, they ensured compliance with safety standards, authenticity guarantees, and lightning-fast delivery.

“We wanted to take the stress out of the experience.

No more waiting weeks, no more wondering if what you ordered is the real thing. Just reliable, beautiful products, delivered quickly,” they said.

The Perfect Time to Launch

for skincare lovers across the U.S. and Canada, with next-day delivery, curated product selections, and even in-store mini-facials that allow customers to test products before they buy.

Overcoming Early Challenges: Turning Obstacles Into Opportunity Before launching the store, the founders

Early 2025 felt like the perfect moment. Social media was buzzing with Korean skincare routines and transformative results, and after the pandemic, self-care had taken on a new meaning. People were investing in skincare not just for appearance, but for wellness, confidence, and routine.

“The demand was there, and people wanted trustworthy, local access,” the founders shared. “Launching now gave us the chance to meet that need

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{ WOMEN ON THE MOVE { SHIFT+CONTROL } } “Many of our customers found us through social media first. It’s not just marketing—it’s a way to connect, listen, and inspire people to explore skincare in a new way,” the team said.”

right when it was growing the fastest.”

What Sets BYC K-Beauty Store Apart In a crowded beauty market, BYC K-Beauty Store stands out by blending authentic products with education and experience. Every item on the shelves is carefully curated for quality, innovation, and results. But beyond the products themselves, the store emphasizes personalized guidance, community connection, and customer care.

The founders call it “affordable luxury.”

They believe glowing skin and quality products shouldn’t be reserved for a select few. Instead, they’ve built a store that caters to all skin types, budgets, and needs, ensuring that everyone can find something that works for them.

“Skincare shouldn’t feel intimidating

Customer Favorites and Hidden Gems

“It’s not just about selling skincare—it’s a b o u t e m p owe r i n g people to understand it, feel good using it, and know they’re investing in something that really works,” they explained.

The mission at BYC K-Beauty Store is clear: to make Korean skincare accessible across the U.S. and Canada. That mission comes alive every day through fast shipping, fair pricing, and education.

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“Our products feature hero ingredients like giant byoung-pool and Jeju lava water—cutting-edge, gentle, and highly effective. The textures are different, the results are different, and people can feel the difference almost immediately,” they shared.

Frequent innovations—like collagen melting masks, ampoules, and multiuse sticks—continue to reshape the way customers think about skincare.

One of the most unique offerings is their free self-applied mini facials.

Customers can walk in, try different products, and build confidence in their routines before making a purchase.

Living the Mission: Affordable Luxury and Everyday Accessibility

hydration, and long-term skin health.

The formulas often combine advanced science with natural ingredients, creating lightweight but powerful solutions.

or out of reach. Our goal is to make it simple, affordable, and trustworthy,” they said.

Why K-Beauty Stands Out Korean skincare has exploded globally for a reason. Unlike some beauty approaches that focus on quick fixes, K-Beauty emphasizes prevention,

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Among the bestsellers are the Dermatology First Package and Dermatology Cream, both known for their high concentrations of powerful active ingredients that leave skin feeling weightless but deeply nourished. Multitasking products, like snow enzyme cleansers that double as shaving cream or hydrating multistick balms, have also won loyal fans for their convenience.

Still, the founders say it’s often the “underrated gems” that keep people coming back. Products like calming gels, lightweight cleansers, and pH-balanced basics may not trend on TikTok, but they deliver

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{ SHIFT+CONTROL } } { WOMEN ON THE MOVE “Our dream is to evolve into a complete K-Beauty hub,” they said. “Not just a store, but an experience.”

consistent, long-term results.

“Once people try them, they notice the difference—and that’s when they become lifetime customers,” they explained.

S p e e d a n d Tr u s t : The BYC Advantage

of new products and routines but also create two-way conversations with customers. Tutorials, reviews, Q&As, and real-time engagement keep the community growing.

K-Beauty Store has already celebrated some major milestones:

“Many of our customers found us

Expanding next-day delivery to both U.S. and Canadian customers.

One of the biggest gamechangers for BYC K-Beauty Store has been next-day delivery across the U.S. and Canada. Customers love the ability to discover a product online and have it in hand almost immediately. It turns skincare shopping from a waiting game into a seamless experience.

But even more than speed, it’s trust that customers value most. They know every product is authentic, safe, and carefully tested.

Many say the personalized recommendations and in-depth explanations make shopping feel less like browsing a store and more like talking to a skincare advisor.

Social Media and Community Connection Social media has been essential in building BYC K-Beauty’s community.

Platforms like Instagram and Facebook not only spread awareness

Launching to enthusiastic response nationwide.

Building a loyal, engaged community on social media.

Partnering with beloved Ko re a n b r a n d s a n d introducing them to U.S. shoppers for the first time.

Looking forward, the vision is ambitious.

Within the next five years, BYC plans to become the go-to K-Beauty destination in North America, expand product categories to include makeup, haircare, body care, and supplements, and launch new services like subscription boxes and personalized online consultations. through social media first. It’s not just marketing—it’s a way to connect, listen, and inspire people to explore skincare in a new way,” the team said.

Milestones and Looking Ahead Since officially launching, BYC

They also see potential for international growth, particularly in the Philippines, where access to Korean products is also in high demand.

“Our dream is to evolve into a complete K-Beauty hub,” they said.

“Not just a store, but an experience.”

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{ SHIFT+CONTROL } } { WOMEN ON THE MOVE “At its core, BYC K-Beauty Store is about more than glowing skin. It’s about confidence, connection, and community.”

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs For others hoping to turn their passion into a business, the BYC founders offer clear advice: “Start with genuine passion, but make sure you’re solving a real problem. For us, it wasn’t just loving skincare—it was about fixing the frustrations of ordering from overseas. Stay consistent, keep your customers at the center, and 98

stay true to your values. That’s what turns an idea into a lasting brand.”

At its core, BYC K-Beauty Store is about more than glowing skin. It’s about confidence, connection, and community. From the first facial party in an Albany mall to a fastgrowing brand serving thousands, the journey has been built on care—for the products, the customers, and the mission. And if the first chapter is

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any indication, the future of BYC K-Beauty Store is only just beginning.

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ARIES JORDAN From an early age, she knew her life would be rooted in service and community.

Inspired by her mother’s leadership and the mentors who nurtured her along the way, she has carried forward a deep belief that to whom much is given, much is required. That guiding principle has shaped her journey as a woman, a mother, an advocate, and a creative force dedicated to building spaces where others can thrive.

Her path hasn’t been defined by a single moment of awakening, but rather by a lifetime of experiences—marches in D.C., block associations, classrooms, poetry circles, and grassroots projects—all weaving together to form a calling she couldn’t ignore.

For her, leadership is less about titles or recognition and more about aligning with her values: service, integrity, joy, creativity, and humility.

Today, she is not only a voice for equity and change but also a creator of healing spaces, such as Journaling N the Park, where selfexpression and community intersect beneath the open sky. Through both her advocacy and her art, she encourages others to pause, imagine, and boldly step into who they are becoming.

Whether leading initiatives, mentoring others, or sharing her own words, her success is defined by the transformation she inspires in those around her.

What inspires and empowers you the most as a woman and community leader?

My mother exposed me to community leadership early, whether it was participating in the block association or attending a march in D.C. with her union, 1199, while I was still in elementary school. Throughout my life I’ve had mentors and community leaders who poured into me encouraging my curiosity, introducing me to new opportunities, and helping me navigate both the beauty and the challenges of being in community. My family and mentors instilled in me the belief that to

whom much is given, much is required.

That belief inspires and encourages me to serve. I’ve always known I wanted to make a difference and change the world.

Can you share a moment that made you realize your true calling in community work and advocacy?

I was politicized at an early age, so I can’t pinpoint one moment when I realized community work was my calling; it was more of a gradual awakening.

What does success mean to you personally and professionally?

Success has become simpler as I’ve gotten older. Earlier in life it was tied to titles, income, marriage, and children. Now, I define success as living in alignment with my values: family, creativity, intellect, joy, integrity, service, and humility.

Personal success is raising my children to be compassionate and to positively impact their communities. It’s choosing to create memories over acquiring things. It consistently does the things that bring me joy like line dancing, hula hooping, journaling, writing poetry, practicing positive self-talk, and deepening my spiritual development.

Professional success is having the resources to sustain both my life’s work and my lifestyle. I’ve dedicated my life to service and to using my art to inspire, transform, and shift the atmosphere. My success is knowing that my writing encourages someone to think differently, find the courage to walk in their purpose, and believe in themselves.

That, to me, is success.

How do you stay grounded and focused while doing such impactful work?

I stay grounded in different ways, depending on the situation. Through trial and error, I’ve learned I can’t commit hastily. I want to be impeccable with my word, so once I say “yes” to something, I see it through for better or worse. To do that well, I slow down, ask questions,

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review my schedule, and assess whether an idea or project is in alignment with my values and capacity.

I also stay grounded through prayer and scripture, reminding myself that some things are beyond my understanding.

I love the serenity prayer; it grounds me in the truth that I can’t stress over what’s out of my control.

What motivated you to apply for the Equity Through Development program through the YWCA? I worked in youth development for over a decade from substitute to afterschool coordinator, with my last role being a 6th grade ELA teacher for three years.

Teaching through the pandemic was a blessing, since many people lost jobs, but it also accelerated my frustration with the education system: the pressure on teachers to raise test scores while students struggled socially and academically.

I was exhausted and searching for a new career path, though I didn’t know where to begin.

My first role outside the classroom was as a philanthropy coordinator, which required an entirely new skill set. In my pursuit to understanding and grow in that role, I began researching philanthropy groups and discovered the program. It was posted on a message board, and I immediately knew it was something I wanted to be a part of.

How did the program shift your perspective on fundraising and development?

Equity Through Development gave me a comprehensive view of fundraising 104

and community-centric fundraising principles that connected the dots for me. Even though I’ve never held the title of “philanthropist” or written a check for thousands of dollars, in youth development I worked with colleagues to raise funds and secure resources, whether it was finding a student a warm coat or raising money for field trips. We made it happen, often without strategy or using philanthropic terms.

Community-centric fundraising principles emphasize that philanthropy isn’t just about money. Time, talent, and treasure are equally valuable. That shift changed how I see my role in development.

What did it mean to you to be surrounded by peers and allies who shared similar experiences during the program?

It meant everything to me at the point in my journey. Often, women of color are not given the grace or space to learn, ask questions, or show vulnerability without being seen as incompetent. In this program, I was able to let my hair down, be vulnerable, and problem-solve collectively. We cultivated a sisterhood where we genuinely wanted to see each other win whether that meant developing a fundraiser, recruiting volunteers, stewarding donors, or building board relationships.

How do you plan to use the tools and lessons you learned from the program in your current or future projects?

I’ve already applied lessons by shifting my mindset around development. I had to unlearn cultural beliefs about money, especially the idea that fundraising is “begging.” The program reframed it for

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me: I’m not begging but I’m inviting people to invest.

What inspired you to create Journaling N the Park?

Journaling N the Park grew out of more than 20 years of writing and teaching writing at all levels. I’ve learned that many participants have a complicated relationship with writing because of a teacher who diminished their work, a loved one who violated their privacy by reading their dairy, or misconceptions about what it means to be a “writer.”

Journals, however, are the great equalizer, a gentle entry point into writing and self-expression. The mission of Just Write is to meet writers where they are.

Journaling N the Park does exactly that for journal lovers, chronic note-takers, doodlers, and even those who don’t see themselves as writers with the added bonus of being outdoors.

Why do you think journaling in a public, nature-based space resonates so deeply with participants?

It’s an invitation to slow down and enjoy the beauty of our local parks. One participant reflected on how healing it was to simply be outdoors, noticing that in their busy life they rarely got to enjoy the parks right in their own backyard. I believe that longing to reconnect with ourselves on a blanket in the grass, with the earth under our feet, the sun on our backs, and fresh air all around is what makes the experience resonate so deeply.

Can you share a favorite story or moment from one of your Journaling N the Park sessions?

At our July session, the forecast predicted

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sun with possible showers later. Halfway through, gray clouds rolled in and it began to drizzle. We quickly gathered our journals and belongings and moved under a tree. I started to panic as the drizzle intensified, but under the tree we stayed dry. I asked the group if they wanted to pack up, and unanimously they said “no”, they wanted to keep writing. We continued, and toward the end of the circle the sun broke through again. It was a powerful reminder of nature’s unpredictability, the sheltering strength of the tree, and the beauty of both sunshine and rain.

Community & Vision – What role do you think creativity a n d e x p re s s i o n play in personal and community development?

Creativity is essential to both personal and community development.

Everything we see and experience daily began in someone’s imagination. To slow down and imagine a new reality, a new way of doing things, is at the heart of growth. When imagination is cultivated, it leads to creation and expression and that process is at the core of development.

What advice would you give to other women of color looking to start community-based initiatives?

My advice is: understand your audience

and your craft. You may already be passionate about your idea on a personal level, but it’s important to connect with affinity groups, networks, and people who share that passion so you can learn and refine your vision. Most importantly, listen to the community you hope to serve. You may have a beautiful idea, but if the community doesn’t want it, need it, or have the capacity for it, it may not land. True community initiatives

and initiatives that change the way people see the world—all sparked by their Just Write Experience. On a personal level, I’m working on my second book, scheduled for release in spring 2026, a poetry journal that combines some of my poems with writing prompts, designed as a creative companion.

If you could tell your younger self one thing, what would it be?

I’d tell her: Write on.

Follow the impulses of your creativity and your desires. Pay attention, and let the form be flexible in how it shows up. Don’t take rejection so personally it may be protection, or preparation. Travel more, both locally and internationally. Writing isn’t just a hobby, it’s your calling, and it will take you to many places.

are co-created with the community, not just for them.

How do you envision the future of your work? what’s next for you?

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KC FARMERS BLEND Tell us a little about yourself and what inspired your journey into KC Farmers Blend. Was there a personal story or “aha” moment that started it all?

My journey really started years ago. As a result of a car accident that completely changed my life, Two years after my accident I was really at the lowest point and I had decided to end my life. At the last minute, I had an encounter with Jesus that not only saved my life but catapulted me in a direction of healing, purpose and fulfillment.

Within a few months, I opened an Estate Sale Company and a Retail store that ended up being quite successful until the pandemic hit. Our company was based out of Buffalo, NY and Erie County was completely shut down.

We started spending time In Allegany county working with a small internet company my husband and I had, but never really paid much attention to. ( I think there were 20 customers at the time, and we were just way too busy in Buffalo to ever make it a priority) But the Internet, with everyone working at home was essential and we started spending our days down here hooking up new customers needing to school and work from home.

To be honest, I really thought in the beginning that the people that lived here were crazy. Initially I could not imagine being in such a rural area. I liked being close to shopping and having dining and entertainment easily accessible.

But day by day as time went by, we found a love for the people in Allegany county, and there was an undeniable

peace that my husband and I both felt the more time we spent here. It didn’t take us long before we started bouncing around the idea of possibly moving.

You and your husband moved to an Amish homestead during the height of the pandemic- how did that shift influence your lifestyle and business goals?

We started looking at properties, and saw many we could not agree on.. But then the listing of an Amish property came up on my phone, and undoubtedly, I felt the Lord speak, and I knew this would be the place we would call home.

I chuckle answering this, because once again - My husband did NOT agree.

But as with most men, who love their wives, my husband gave in, and by November of 2020, This was our home and KC Farms was founded.

Our first year was anything but glamorous, and the stories I could tell.. But we worked hard and never had a shortage of projects.

From learning how to farm and raise our own animals to construction, we were always busy. But I think that was where the shift started happening. I was still traveling back and forth (as the Pandemic restrictions were lifted) for work. But I noticed that when I ate the food we produced locally at home I felt healthy, but when I would eat at numerous restaurants while working, I always felt sick. It really started me on a path of being more aware of the foods we are eating and the products we are using.

What does living “the simpler life” mean to you, and how is that philosophy reflected in everything you create at Farmers Blend?

The simpler life, I think, for my husband Chris and I, and the motto behind KC Farmers Blend is really Just to utilize the simple ingredients That God Gave us. I think for us, the peace, comfort and benefits from giving up the hustle and bustle and learning time honored traditions and healthy habits really just provided us with so many opportunities for a better healthier lifestyle.

Tallow as well as other ingredients are playing a major part in that lifestyle.

The power of Tallow & Traditional Wisdom Tallow is making a modern comeback in skincare. What drew you to this ingredient, and how did you discover its potential?

So really for me the Tallow journey started because of my husband. He had two issues that we really tried to heal and use modern medicines and creams. But for him, they weren’t working. He had eczema on his shins and he would get such dry skin on his hands from working, His thumbs would end up with these really deep cracks, that were so painful and would bleed. We were constantly trying products. But nothing worked.

At that point, we were already creating so many products for healthier living, I had come across a quick post on Tallow and it really sent me into a rabbit hole of re searching every piece of information I could find. And after intense research I had decided to make my first Tallow Balm.. To our surprise- It took care of both the issues he was dealing with.

Can you explain the difference between just “grass-fed” and the truly all-natural

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{ {MINDFUL HUSTLE &BEAUTY HEART } “I truly hope that KC Farmers Blend is always remembered for our dedication to honesty and integrity.”

approach you and your farmers believe in? Why is that distinction so important?

Oh, The Grass Fed thing. For me, as I started sourcing Suet, I found everyone put such stress on “Grass Fed”. Mainly, I think for two reasons.. They had this thought that if the label said grass fed, It made them feel better that the animal lived in pastures all day and also, that it was healthier for us. If you are not aware of farming practices, that’s a completely normal way of thinking.

But we had already been farming and knew first hand that just like any product out there, marketing plays a huge role and the Grass fed label is thrown around a lot!!

We know that there is just so much more that plays in our decision to use a specific farm’s suet to produce our Tallow with.

Grass Fed does not ensure a healthy diet or guarantee a life of roaming hills and grazing happily. So when we seek a new Farmer to work with for our skincare products and Pure Beef Tallow products, there are so many more things we take into consideration. We do want to guarantee that they are living naturally in Pastures, Not just Having Cut Grass or Hay put in front of them to eat in a barn. We also want to know that they have access to other natural plants and can forage for what their bodies need for nutrients. We make sure that the farms raising them are focusing on raising them in pastures that are free from pesticides and chemical fertilizers.

That they are not subjecting them to unnecessary antibiotics, vaccines and growth hormones. That they are raising 110

Closed herds to protect from diseases.

These Farmers pride themselves in raising Their cattle in the most Natural way possible.. They strive to produce an All Natural way of farming and we strive to bring that to you in the personal products we create.

What are some of the biggest misconceptions people have about using tallow in skincare- and how do you address them?

I think the biggest misconception that people have about Tallow is that it will be greasy, or make them break out, or that they will smell like beef.. That’s the most common one.

I always encourage them to try it. With Tallow products, I always say, It will be like nothing you have ever experienced before. In a good way Tallow has been used for thousands of years and for good reason. It is the most compatible thing to our skin’s own sebum. It is full of natural nutrients like Vitamin A, D E, and K and it’s a natural anti-inflammatory. It can soothe irritated skin, reduce skin redness. It’s healthy, rejuvenating and can help repair our skin and undo years of damage.… And if it is done right, It will absolutely not smell like beef.

Crafting with care and consciousness Your process for rendering Tallow is meticulous. Why is that level of detail and purity so important to you?

Our process of rendering Tallow is indeed meticulous. It not only ensures longevity and shelflife, but as I said earlier, If It is done right, It absolutely will Not have a foul odor. We are so

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careful and take pride in our Tallow products. Every product we produce, we use ourselves as well. We want our customers, (whether they are trying a Tallow Product for the first time or they are already hooked on the benefits of Tallow) to have an unforgettable and pleasant experience, That not only makes their skin healthier but leaves them with the feeling they have made a great choice towards a healthier and happier lifestyle.

Tell us about your lilac oil infusionhow did that come to be, and what makes it such a special part of your product line?

We have learned a lot along the way since KC Farmers Blend was founded.

And the use of so many natural herbs like mint, organically and locally sourced tea’s, fruits, spices, raw Honey, beeswax and our own dandelion and lilac infused oils . Not only do these plants offer so many natural health benefits but it allows us to create and use natural and organic fragrances in our products. Many of the fragrances in products today are synthetic, which have been found to be toxic to our bodies and can even disrupt our hormones and cause unnecessary health concerns.

From micro- filtering to hand harvesting herbs, you have built a brand rooted in integrity. How do you balance quality with scalability as you grow?

To say that I am never stressed would be a bit of a stretch, But for the most part Quality does not change with scalability.

Things like our Dandelion oil may not always be available all year long. But

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MINDFUL BEAUTY HUSTLE &BEAUTY HEART }} {{ {MINDFUL “I think for us, the peace, comfort and benefits from giving up the hustle and bustle and learning time honored traditions and healthy habits really just provided us with so many opportunities for a better healthier lifestyle.”

we keep our recipes and products pure and simple. Which enables me to make quality my only focus. And I can’t lie, I have an amazing husband that works just as hard behind the scenes!! He is truly my biggest support and he believes not only in the products, but in me.

I believe there will be a time soon where we will be bringing on more hands, but being able to give our products that personal touch with quality ingredients will always be our number one focus.

Sourcing & Sustainability Your commitment to working with local farmers is a cornerstone of your brand. How do you choose who to partner with?

Absolutely, It’s in our name - Farmers Blend. When we are choosing to work with a farm, the process of selection starts long before we ever meet them.

We look into their business practices, their customers, their reviews. We want to know what they stand for and their mission statement. Then we always check out their farm first hand. We want to know that they are who they say they are, that they can stand behind their mission statement with their farming practices. Our Farmers are amazing, and we would not be who we are without them.

Why do you believe it’s critical to source ingredients like honey, milk, and flowers locally- and how does that impact the final product?

Thank you for asking that, I do believe it is absolutely critical to source ingredients locally. Mainly for two reasons. The first and most important reason is that we can verify where our additional ingredients

are coming from. That they are free from pesticides and chemicals and are farmed ethically by farmers that care not only about the products they offer but also about the environment and as well their communities. The second reason would be that there is so much factory farming going on in the world today.

Most Grocery stores have no clue where their meat, produce or products come from, many of which come from out of the country. We want to support our local economy by utilizing products they work hard to produce. These farmers don’t sit behind a desk, They have their hands in it. Caring meticulously for their animals, working the land, and harvesting the products that not only get sold to their customers, but it’s the same food they are feeding their own families. They are the backbone to our way of life. And the quality ingredients they produce are better than anything you will find in a store.

How does KC Farmers Blend help consumers reconnect with both nature and community through the products they use every day?

Our consumers can be proud and confident in choosing KC Farmers Blend.

They are using All Natural products that are produced with age old traditions and practices that have stood the test of time. I think what sets us apart from other companies is that when consumers use our products, they are supporting their local communities. Our products are made with ingredients we source from our local communities.

Skincare, Wellness, & Customer Connection

What skin concerns or needs do your products most often address- and what makes them so effective?

That’s a big question. Foremost is that our products are first designed to be free of chemicals, parabens, synthetic fragrances and are a Great high Quality choice for those that care about the products they are using and are searching for healthy options. Next I would say that what they address the most is overall skin care health. There truly is something for everyone.

You mention that each product is tested and tailored to specific concerns. Can you walk us through your creative and testing process?

I love working at our shows. One of the best experiences, that I never get sick of, no matter how many times it happens. Is when a customer comes in because they have heard something about Tallow from someone. It could have been a friend, a relative or they saw a post on social media, but they have never tried it themselves.

We always have samples out of every product. And the conversation always starts with “have you ever used a Tallow Product before?” and they always say no, but they are curious. I always give them a little background about Tallow and the benefits. Then I ask them, what are some of the skin concerns you have?

It could be creped skin, fine lines and wrinkles, excessive dryness, or a more serious concern. Or it could be just that they have sensitive skin and can’t use a lot of the products on the market, but would love something they can use.

Without fail I can always direct them

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{{{MINDFUL HUSTLE &BEAUTY HEART }} SHIFT+CONTROL “We always have samples out of every product. And the conversation always starts with “have you ever used a Tallow Product before?” and they always say no, but they are curious.”

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towards one of our products that can help with one of those issues, whether it be our anti aging face cream, body butters or one of our many other products. But the best part of the whole interaction is when I take the tiniest Dab the size of a pen tip and tell them that amount will cover an entire area- and then they rub it in. And in that moment, they’re entire expression changes, and it goes from sceptic to wide eyes, a huge smile and complete awww.. Because they can not believe how their skin feels and is completely transformed before their eyes. For me I don’t just do this for an income. I do this because I love the interactions with our customers, and making a difference for them. - sometimes when they feel like they have exhausted all other options and feel lost.

increasingly concerned. After the event, I watched the young woman get up and walk towards me. And as she bent over my table - she whispered, “Thank you- I love your Face Cream.” There she was, the young woman I made it for, whom I no longer recognized with beautiful healthy looking skin. I was in complete disbelief. We drove home and when we walked in the door, My husband turned to look at me and said, “Kat, You need to start a business”!!

Do you have a customer success story or moment that really affirmed you were on the right path with your brand?

Oh Gosh, I have so many wonderful stories, but I would say that the one that is probably the most responsible for completely launching the start of KC Farmers Blend was a friend’s daughter.

She had heard that I was dabbling with Tallow and I had created a balm for my husband..and she reached out to me and asked me to work on a facial cream for very sensitive skin with hives, eczema and breakouts. It took me a few weeks.

And let’s just say at that point I was far from confident and I did not charge her. I did not hear anything from her for about a month. And my husband and I went to a church event and I had noticed her Father sitting next to a young woman, and as they were talking back and forth to each other, I was becoming

Empowering Women & living with Purpose

And I would say that was the real start of KC Farmers Blend, And it has been a wild, exciting God given journey, with many tears, many joys and so much fun along the way. But To this Day That face cream is still one of our number one selling products.

As a woman- owned brand, how does empowerment show up in your work- and what advice would you offer women thinking about starting something of their own?

I think It’s very hard for me to take credit for any of this. I do recognize how important it is to be a leader and an example for other women. To lift them up. But I truly would not be where I am today without trusting God and leaning on his strength when I barely had enough confidence to keep going on my own. I will say this, If you are a woman feeling led or inspired to start something amazing, but are afraid to step out in faith, - Remember Fear is a Liar. Don’t let it hold you back from becoming the absolute best that you can

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be. Faith as small as a mustard seed is all you need to take the first step. We are all rooting for you!!

What Legacy do you hope KC Farmers Blend leaves for your children, your customers, and your community?

I truly hope that KC Farmers Blend is always remembered for our dedication to honesty and integrity. That we truly make a difference. Not just for our individual customers but that our growth empowers us to serve and truly make a difference in the lives of those around us.

What’s next for KC Farmers Blendare there new products or ideas in the works that you’re excited about?

I am so glad you asked that question. We are so excited!! We have been working on a huge project, a construction project really. We are preparing to move all of our operations to a new building that will not only allow us room to expand further but we will be opening a retail storefront in the same building for customers to come in and shop local.

We love doing our shows and we will continue to set up at high end events across NYS. but we really felt it was time for us to offer a place for those that prefer in person shopping, but don’t want to wait for Farmers Blend to be at show close by- Definitely keep an eye on our website at www.kcfarmersblend.com for all updates on our Grand opening

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THE SANCTUARY ON RIDGE YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

Q: Can you tell us about the inspiration behind Sanctuary on Ridge and how the transformation from historic church to modern event venue came to life?

A: We fell in love with the idea of giving the beautiful historic chapel and parish hall a new purpose. We saw the potential for it to be more than just preserved. It could become a gathering place once again, this time for celebrations, milestones, and moments of joy. The transformation honored its roots while opening the doors to a modern purpose.

Q: What does it mean to you to preserve the historical integrity of a space while offering modern amenities for today’s events?

A: For us, it’s about balance.

We believe guests should feel the history and character the moment they walk in, while also having the comfort and conveniences of today’s events. By blending original features with updated amenities, we’ve created a venue that honors the past but feels fresh and functional for the future.

Q: Sanctuary has such rich architectural features—from stained glass windows to soaring ceilings. How do these elements enhance the guest experience?

A: The architecture does a lot of the work for us—it creates instant atmosphere.

The stained glass offers colorful, natural light, and the tall ceilings give the space a sense of openness and grandeur. Guests often comment that the space feels inspiring and uplifting, which makes

every event feel a little more special.

Q: You offer both a Chapel and a Hall—how do these two distinct spaces complement each other for weddings and other milestone celebrations?

A: The Chapel provides a breathtaking setting for ceremonies, with its historic beauty and intimate feel. Then, just steps away, the Sanctuary Hall offers a versatile, open layout perfect for receptions, dinners, and gatherings. Together, they

create a seamless flow for events—guests can move from heartfelt moments in the Chapel to joyful celebrations in Sanctuary Hall without ever leaving the venue.

Q: What types of events do you most enjoy hosting at Sanctuary on Ridge— and why?

A: Weddings will always hold a special place in our hearts because of the love and energy couples bring in. But we also really enjoy milestone birthdays,

showers, and community get-togethers.

Each event has its own personality, and it’s fun to see how people make the space their own.

Q: What makes Sanctuary a truly unique and intimate venue choice for couples planning their weddings or vow renewals?

A: Sanctuary combines the elegance of a historic chapel and banquet hall with the flexibility of a modern event space, all on a scale that feels personal. Couples love that their celebration doesn’t get lost in a large, impersonal setting—here, every detail feels close, heartfelt, and meaningful.

Q: With room for up to 100 guests, how does the size of your space lend itself to more meaningful and personal gatherings?

A: A guest count of 100 or fewer is the sweet spot for truly connecting with the people who matter most. Our space naturally fosters closeness—guests feel included and part of the celebration, rather than just observers. It’s the perfect size for creating memories that are shared together, not from afar.

Q: Can you describe the experience of walking through Sanctuary for the first time? What do guests typically say or feel when they enter the space?

A: Guests often pause as soon as they step inside. Words we hear often are “Wow,” “Peaceful,” and “Beautiful.”

There’s a sense of calm paired with

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{ VOWS & VENUES } “We fell in love with the idea of giving the beautiful historic chapel and parish hall a new purpose. We saw the potential for it to be more than just preserved.”

we—the combination of historic details and open, welcoming design really leaves a lasting impression.

Q: The Chapel is a work of art in itself—what are some standout features that guests and couples fall in love with?

A: The stained glass windows are always a favorite—they add color, warmth, and timeless beauty. The original woodwork and soaring ceiling beams also give the Chapel character you can’t replicate. Many couples tell us they fell in love with the Chapel at first sight.

Q: Sanctuary Hall offers a beautiful, open layout and full kitchen. How does this flexibility serve different types of events, from showers to corporate functions?

A: The Hall adapts beautifully to different needs. For weddings, it transforms into an elegant reception space. For showers, it’s bright and welcoming.

And for corporate events, the open floor plan and full kitchen allow for easy catering and custom setups.

It’s really a blank canvas that people can make their own.

Q: How do you work with clients to bring their vision to life? Are there any customizations or partnerships you offer for décor, catering, or coordination?

A: We start by listening. Every client comes in with a vision, and we want to 126

understand what matters most to them.

From there, we offer flexibility—they’re welcome to bring in their own décor and vendors, or we can connect them with local partners we trust. We also have an on-site wedding coordinator who helps couples with the details, making sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish. Our goal is to support them in creating a celebration that feels authentic and stress-free.

Q: How does Sanctuary on Ridge embody the spirit of community, celebration, and connection?

A: This building has always been a gathering place, and we’re simply continuing that legacy in a new way.

Whether it’s a wedding, a family reunion, or a community event, Sanctuary brings people together. It’s about honoring life’s moments and strengthening connections—just as the space was meant to do.

Q: What are your future hopes for the venue—are there any new additions or events you’re looking forward to hosting?

A: We’re excited to keep growing with the community—whether that’s hosting more seasonal events, collaborating with local vendors, or exploring new ways to use the space.

The possibilities feel endless, and that’s exciting.

Q: What advice would you give to someone searching for a venue that balances elegance, affordability, and historical charm?

A: Trust your instincts when you walk into a space—you should feel comfortable and inspired at the same time. Look for a venue that doesn’t just look beautiful but also feels welcoming and fits your budget without compromise. At Sanctuary, we’re proud to offer that balance.

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Q: For someone considering Sanctuary for their next event, what’s the one thing you hope they remember after experiencing your space?

A: We hope they remember how it felt. Beyond the stained glass and the details, we want them to leave with a sense of warmth, connection, and joy—that Sanctuary truly was the perfect backdrop for their milestone moment.

{ BEAUTIFUL, POWERFUL, DESERVING } { WOMEN { SHIFT+CONTROL WHO INSPIRE } }

YOU ARE ENOUGH. WITH LOVE CHERRY PIE

BY NICOLE HEROUX BY WILLIAMS I PHOTOS VERONICA RYAN BY NSP STUDIO

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Note From the Author: This article is a throwback piece I wrote last fall for the National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder. I am repurposing it here, as I have been very busy working on some incredible new content!

My own personal blog, Borderline Babe (www.borderlinebabe.com), launched on 9/1/25, so that has been taking up much of my time and attention. No need to worry though! - I will continue to write my monthly column, Beautiful, Powerful, Deserving, right here, just for you! I even have an exciting announcement and a new project coming very soon! Big thank you as always, to the one and only Kelly Breuer who not only helped me get my start here, but is an integral supporter of my independent project, Borderline Babe.

And now, without further ado, please join me for a fun read filled with love, gratitude, and of course, cherry pie!

of joy driving it over to wish my aunt a happy birthday.

On February 2nd , 2023, my aunt celebrated her 60th birthday. In the week leading up to her special day, I planned to make her a cherry pie. I found crust and filling recipes, made a shopping list, and braced myself for a trip to the grocery store on the morning of her birthday. I say “braced myself” because, before making progress in treatment, I found being in any public place almost unbearable. But on that February morning, I survived my shopping trip and rushed to the safety of home with my loot. The rest of the morning was spent baking, and as my hands became dusty with flour and stained red with cherry juice, I felt a kiss of warmth and joy. It felt good to be taken outside of myself, even for just a couple hours to bake a cherry pie. The final touch was a heart cut out in the center of the crust, and although the baking process left it a little dented, I still felt a lingering sense

Now joy comes to me in many different forms, and I have learned to appreciate them all uniquely. Joy is born when I’m laughing with close friends. It blossoms when I hold my little cousin’s hand and watch them explore the world around them. Joy comes with sunshine that warms my face, the smell of rain, and watching the sun rise. There is always a seat reserved for joy at family dinners, and it never misses out on days I wear a cute pair of shoes. However joy comes to you, it is always worth celebrating.

Remember that joy is the child of relief and peace. No one expects you to be jovial with blind happiness while in the throes of mental illness. It takes many small steps, and some steps backwards in the process, to overcome depression.

Moments of relief and peace can act as your guides through this journey and— eventually—lead you to joy.

Joy is a powerful emotion, especially during depressive episodes. It can feel like gasping a breath of fresh air when you’re in a constant state of drowning. Creating moments of joy can be difficult, even when you’re in a healthy mental state. Add the burden of mental illness, and it feels impossible. During my darkest times, I found peace in physical activity—pushing my body through a hard workout. For a long time, all I got for all my sweat and effort was a tiny shot of peace that made my brain feel a little less inflamed. By keeping at it, though, that feeling of peace slowly morphed into joy. Having a taste of joy made me crave more, so I began to search for it through other avenues. I opened up and branched out, widening my world and finding joy in new places.

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Today is November 24th, 2024.

Thanksgiving is just four short days off, and preparations are well underway. It will be a small gathering featuring my lovely parents, myself, and my cherry pie-loving aunt and uncle. My heart feels a little heavy, weighed down by grief for holidays past. Some were busier and flashier, mimicking that classic Hallmark hustle and bustle. Others were louder, full of family, friends, and even a few faces I did not recognize. Some were happier, filled with love and marked with an extra chair next to mine at the table. But I have learned there is beauty in simplicity, and my heart swells with joy as I think of what this Thanksgiving will have in store. In the morning, I’m participating in a local turkey trot run with one of my nearest and dearest friends. This will be our second year, signifying the start of a new tradition. Post-run, I’ll help my mom prepare dinner. There will be soups and salad, sweet potatoes and salmon, risotto and dinner rolls. I plan to make a cherry pie. Our spread may look a little different than yours—heck, our spread looks a little different than it once did—but it will be a happy feast for the family sharing in it. I know I can count on a fire in the woodstove, stories, laughter, love, and, of course, cherry pie.

I dedicate this piece to AA and UT. For sharing words of wisdom, escapes to Liberty Hall, and introducing me to Montreal…

Said with love and cherry pie – V Join me next month for my next article, and keep your eyes peeled for my special announcement, coming soon!

Not broken, beautiful.

XOXO

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MELISSA MEULLER YOU ARE ENOUGH. CHOCOLATE MINDFULNESS

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

CEO of MYRetreat | Mindfulness Expert | Chocolate Mindfulness™ Innovator An Interview with Melissa MuellerDouglas, LMSW Q: Tell us about your journey into mindfulness—how did you go from licensed master social worker to wellness innovator?

A: The focus on advice for struggling women is rampant. I’m not about that life. There are many other topics to dive into that illuminate women. I choose to lead by example and refrain from giving advice to struggling women.

Identify something that lights you up and become obsessed with it.

A: The transition was seamless. Just today, I listened to a masterclass on mirroring in business negotiations, a skill rooted in psychology and taught in social work school to build rapport. Those same techniques translate beautifully into business, proving that sales and leadership are simply another layer of human connection.

Q: You say people can’t catch imposter syndrome from you because you don’t have it. That’s powerful. What advice would you give to women struggling with self-doubt or perfectionism?

A: We pair chocolate tasting with intention-setting, body scan, guided imagery, and gratitude journaling. People love our approach to team building, which uses chocolate, not trust falls, because it’s a gift of chocolate that deepens self-awareness and fosters bonding through experiential learning. Leaders appreciate the stress management insights gained, and the company receives real-time survey data that proves the shift.

Q: You’ve made it your mission to impact 1 million professionals—why that number, and what does success look like to you in that mission?

A: When I founded MYRetreat, I set a bold intention: commit to the entrepreneurial journey for 10+ years. I’m now in year eight, and that promise has been my fuel.

It’s kept me grounded and allowed me to celebrate phenomenal days, conversations, and customers that always outweigh the tough moments.

Q: What inspired you to create MYRetreat and your signature experience, Chocolate Mindfulness™?

A: In my counseling sessions, mindfulness practices were changing lives. Pairing chocolate with mindfulness was my bold innovation. Chocolate is a wellestablished habit for most, and many people want a new wellness habit—so we stacked one on top. After enjoying chocolate, take a few minutes to meditate and gratitude journal. It’s simple, effective, and delicious.

Wellness Workshop and how it impacts participants in real time?

Q: How does Chocolate Mindfulness™ differ from traditional mindfulness or stress management practices?

A: Chocolate Mindfulness is meditation anchored in chocolate. It’s a blue ocean strategy combining the chocolate industry with the wellness industry, inviting people who may never have meditated to actually love the practice.

Q: Can you walk us through the structure of a Chocolate Mindfulness™

I set out to support 1 million professionals because it represents a big, measurable impact. Having transformed lives one at a time as a social worker, I now aim for broader influence through scale, targeting widespread cultural change in workplaces worldwide.

It’s about building a legacy. A million professionals supported means a million lives touched, a million leaders better equipped to thrive, and workplaces infused with more presence, connection,

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{ SHIFT+CONTROL { SHE SPEAKS } } “People love our approach to team building, which uses chocolate, not trust falls, because it’s a gift of chocolate that deepens self-awareness and fosters bonding through experiential learning.”

equipped to thrive, and workplaces infused with more presence, connection, and care.

download the free MYRetreat App for daily two-minute meditations you pair with chocolate as your tangible reward.

or transformative responses you’ve received from someone who experienced a MYRetreat session?

I chose a number big enough to stretch me. It forces me to innovate, collaborate, and think expansively. It’s why I partner with brands like Agapé, which has millions of daily users on the Agapé App, Lamik Beauty, and Ella Consulting.

For me, success involves creating experiences that are transformative with tangible rewards. That’s why every participant at our Chocolate Mindfulness Retreat is gifted IAMBIC AI-powered, custom-fit shoes engineered with NASA-grade tech, recognized by TIME as a Best Invention of the Year.

Just as Chocolate Mindfulness™ provides successful executives with powerful tools for wellness, IAMBIC ensures they are grounded, literally, in comfort, precision, and luxury.

Q: What role does intention-setting play in your work—and in your own personal life?

A: A woman grieving the loss of her son told me Chocolate Mindfulness on the MYRetreat App helped her through her darkest days. Another person, after attending a Chocolate Mindfulness workshop, shared that he was moved to tears during the body scan as he realized how long it had been since he’d expressed and acknowledged gratitude to his body for all it had done.

Q: What are some common workplace stressors you see, and how can mindfulness help people manage them more effectively?

A: Restructuring, job insecurity, and overwhelming workloads top the list.

The antidote is to remember your why, visualize success, and anchor yourself in gratitude. That’s resilience in action.

Q: How do you define mindfulness in a world that glorifies busyness and burnout?

A: I keep it simple: mindfulness begins with your breath. Chocolate Mindfulness adds the aroma of chocolate to that breath. Begin there. When you’re ready, 134

A: At MYRetreat, everything is guided by our intentional values: connection, celebration, and rest. These aren’t just workshop themes; they’re principles I incorporate into my daily life. On any given day, you can find me connecting with people at NextCorps, Rochester Women’s Network, Get Sh!t Done, and 100 Women Who Care. I love celebrating wins with boldly confident women at ALTBAR. My local places for rest include my hammock, the Bodymind Float Center, massages at the Midtown Athletic Club, and sitting in front of Lake Ontario watching the sunrise or sunset.

Q: You’ve been a volleyball player, world traveler, and business leader—how do those life experiences shape your approach to wellness and leadership?

A: Volleyball gave me discipline, resilience, and teamwork. Traveling with a passport since age 8 made leading international retreats a no-brainer. That’s why I bring Chocolate Mindfulness Retreat guests to the Black Urchin Resort in Grand Cayman. My approach to leadership developed through experiences connecting with people in Rwanda, celebrating in Costa Rica, and resting in Spain. All stories for another day.

Q: What are some of the most memorable

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Q: How do you select the chocolate used in your workshops, and why is sensory engagement such a powerful tool for transformation?

A: I partner with chocolate companies that meet two criteria: 1) Extraordinary quality and taste 2) Giving back for the greater good. Chocolate engages our overlooked olfactory senses. When you pause to smell and savor a piece of chocolate, time slows down. That experience enables you to savor the moment, allowing each breath to be appreciated as it deserves.

Q: How does gratitude journaling complement the mindfulness work you do in your sessions?

A: Gratitude journaling cuts through the addiction to busyness. One word prompt, two minutes on the timer.

It’s quick, but the ripple effects are lasting. Many people want to journal, but busyness often takes over, and they lose sight of their ability to pause and recognize the gifts in life. Using a one-

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{ SHE SPEAKS } } { SHIFT+CONTROL “In my counseling sessions, mindfulness practices were changing lives. Pairing chocolate with mindfulness was my bold innovation.”

word prompt and a two-minute timer, journaling becomes a quick yet vibrant experience.

Q: What is one misconception people have about mindfulness that you wish you could change?

A: None. If someone is even thinking about mindfulness, I’m thrilled.

Q: You’ve worked with both individuals and companies—how do you tailor your workshops for different audiences?

A: Customization happens in 30 minutes or less. We align on a collective intention tied to the team’s current reality, then co-create a tailored workshop experience that meets their needs. And since most people adore chocolate, the entry point is universal.

I serve a wide range of clients from executive women and C-suite leaders to HR teams and entire organizations.

The common thread is that they’re committed to investing in wellness, culture, and connection. I’ve partnered with entities including American Express, CleanCraft, ESL, MCC, RIT, Rochester Rotary Club, Stupski Foundation, The Lakehouse on Canandaigua, Uwill, and Wynyki Alston Foundation. With each team, we co-created an experience that spoke directly to their needs.

Every audience brings a different focus— sometimes it’s stress management, sometimes it’s team building, sometimes it’s confidence and leadership. Within 30 minutes of conversation, I can customize a one-hour Chocolate Mindfulness™ Workshop to match their intention.

Because at the end of the day, whether it’s [insert client example] or [insert client example], what people crave is the same: to feel seen, supported, and inspired—chocolate just makes the entry point irresistible.

Q: In what ways do you hope to see corporate wellness and workplace culture shift in the next 5 years?

A: Chocolate Mindfulness is solving the problem of employees not feeling supported, appreciated, and understood.

I want leaders as close to their people as they are to their customers. Culture must move beyond a box-checking exercise, because employees are their greatest asset. Just as I stay close to my customers to understand their needs and wants, leaders must also be close to their employees to recognize their strengths and aspirations.

Q: As a woman founder, what challenges have you faced in the wellness or entrepreneurial space, and how have you overcome them?

A: I don’t see my story through a lens focused on barriers. I highlight the strategic advantages of being a woman founder: empathy-driven leadership, relationship-building, and innovation rooted in lived experience.

our Chocolate Mindfulness Retreat in Grand Cayman.

I’m building my legacy on bold boundaries. I chose not to be known as a resilient survivor of entrepreneurship, but as a celebrated architect of cultures that prioritize connection, celebration, and rest. That’s the north star I’m reaching for—not only for myself, but for those I walk alongside.

Q: If readers could walk away with one practice they can implement today to improve their mindfulness, what would it be?

A: Grab your favorite chocolate, download the free MYRetreat App, and try a twominute meditation today. I’ve partnered with the best chocolate companies in the world—Conexión, Eldora, Good Girl Chocolate, 57 Chocolates, ZORA, Harlem Chocolate Factory, Free2B, and Laughing Gull Chocolate. Choose one, savor a piece mindfully, and start your wellness journey now. If you’re lucky enough to be in Rochester, try Laughing Gull Chocolate’s Blackberry Ginger Balsamic Bite. You’ll thank me later. Take this simple step today and discover how Chocolate Mindfulness™ can transform your daily life.

Ask me about the wins, the doors that opened because I showed up authentically.

That’s the energy I surround myself with, and it’s contagious. I’m not only manifesting greater ease for myself but also scaling it as an opportunity for other executive women across industries with ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: AUGUST/SEPTEMBER EDITION 2025

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT } { THE{ POWER OF HER VISION }

SUNFLOWERS & SKULLS Sunflowers & Skulls Apothecary: Healing with Nature, One Transformation at a Time Personal Journey & Brand Origins Some businesses are born from spreadsheets and business plans, while others grow out of something far more personal: survival, healing, and hope. For the founder of Sunflowers & Skulls Apothecary, the business is not just about selling herbal remedies—it’s the living story of her own transformation.

constant pain, twenty-four hours a day,” she recalls. “Doctor after doctor, I went through unnecessary surgeries, endless misdiagnoses, and endless frustration. I was blamed for being fat. I was told it was my diet or that it was all in my head.”

physical therapy, diets—did little to ease her suffering. Eventually, she made a pivotal decision: if the medical system couldn’t help, maybe she could help herself. With limited funds and a stubborn determination, she began experimenting with natural remedies.

Anyone who has lived with chronic

At first, these creations didn’t solve the underlying hip condition that had been missed for so long. But the salves, tinctures, and herbal blends began to soothe other ailments, bringing real relief in unexpected ways. That spark of healing soon became a flame.

“I created the name Sunflowers & Skulls Beautiful Transformations Apothecary (or Sunflowers & Skulls Apothecary for short) because it embodies what I’ve been through,” she explains.

“Sunflowers represent beauty and light, while skulls represent transformation—the ending of one chapter and the beginning of a new one. For me, that new chapter was learning to embrace the healing power of nature.”

The name itself became a work of art when tattoo artist Sara Nunn of Mystic Tattoos designed a logo that perfectly captured its meaning. But the deeper design was already written in the founder’s life story.

Her journey began nearly a decade ago when her body suddenly betrayed her. “About eight years ago, I slowly became unable to walk. I was in

She began making her herbal remedies as gifts for friends and family—holiday presents, birthday surprises, small tokens of love. The response was overwhelming. People not only appreciated the thoughtfulness but returned to her asking for more. They wanted refills, often sharing emotional stories of how the products had worked for them when nothing else did.

pain knows the devastating toll it takes—not only on the body, but also on the spirit. Everyday tasks became obstacles. “I cried every time I couldn’t do something simple, like putting on socks and shoes. I was begging to be fixed,” she admits.

The solutions offered—pills, creams,

“The feedback was astounding,” she recalls. “The stories, the tears, the gratitude—it showed me this needed to be more than a hobby. This was a calling.”

And with that, Sunflowers & Skulls Apothecary was born.

Products & Philosophy At the core of Sunflowers & Skulls is a simple mission: to help people heal

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{ IN THE SPOTLIGHT } “I listen to what people need, and that’s how I grow. Just like nature, this business will never stop expanding and evolving.”

naturally, safely, and effectively. That mission extends to everyone—adults, children, even pets. “When I say everyone, I mean it,” she emphasizes.

“I make products that work for the whole family, fur babies included.”

Her growing line includes bestsellers like the thyme tincture and salve, FA&FO spray, and arthritis salve, along with custom creations requested by clients with unique needs. “My product line is always expanding because people bring me their struggles,” she explains. “If someone needs something I don’t yet make, I research, I create, and then I add it. Chances are, others out there are facing the same problem.”

they also restore equilibrium to the body, mind, and spirit.

“When the body feels stable, the mind and spirit can follow,” she explains. Aromatic herbs provide more than physical relief—they bring comfort, release, and emotional grounding. Herbs carry spiritual meaning, too: cleansing, prayer,

But the apothecary is more than a collection of jars and bottles— it’s rooted in a philosophy of balance. Herbal remedies are not just about treating symptoms; 144

Custom formulations are available for those with allergies, sensitivities, or specific goals. “If I don’t have something on the table, don’t be afraid to ask. Chances are, I can create it,” she adds.

The impact of her products is best told through the voices of her clients. One recent story brought her to tears: a mother who had tried prescription after prescription for her twoyear-old daughter’s skin issues.

Nothing worked—until she tried Sunflowers & Skulls products.

Transparency and integrity are at the foundation of her work.

Every product is handcrafted in small batches using organic herbs sourced from trusted local suppliers. Ingredients are stored in amber glass jars to prevent UV damage and preserve potency. And perhaps most importantly, she personally uses everything she sells.

“That’s why I can offer a moneyback guarantee with confidence,” she says. “If it’s not good enough for me, it’s not good enough for anyone else.”

Consultations are designed as oneon-one conversations where listening comes first. “When a client comes to me, they can expect a full evaluation of their needs,” she says. “I’m transparent about pricing, ingredients, and allergens, and I make sure they leave knowing exactly how to use the product for the best results.”

dream work, intuition, intention setting, and connection to nature.

For many, using herbal products becomes a ritual as much as a remedy.

The Customer Experience Unlike traditional retail, Sunflowers & Skulls Apothecary is deeply personal.

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“She came back to thank me and told me mine were the only things that helped her daughter,” the founder recalls. “I can’t explain how full my heart felt hearing that. My soul is happy every time I get feedback like this.”

Success stories like these ripple outward. Many of her new clients come through word of mouth— friends telling friends, family members passing along jars and bottles, customers posting online about their transformations. The reviews consistently highlight

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SHIFT+CONTROL {{ IN THE SPOTLIGHT }} “I want to continue helping people heal with nature and inspire them to begin their own transformations.”

Business & Growth The path from hobby to business has not been without challenges, especially as a woman entrepreneur. “There are always naysayers,” she admits. “People say a small business won’t survive in this economy, that I can’t succeed. But I say yes, I will—because I already am.”

The apothecary began with just three items: two salves and one tincture. Today, the product line has expanded dramatically, with dozens of offerings and new formulations in development all the time. Each market show, vendor event, and community fair provides opportunities to connect, gather feedback, and refine the products.

they’re part of something larger,” she reflects. “It’s about healing, emotional support, and belonging.

I’m not just offering products; I’m empowering people to take part in their own journey of healing.”

That sense of empowerment extends into the future vision for the business.

Within the next three to five years,

Community & Future Community is more than just customers—it’s central to the apothecary’s philosophy. “When people use herbal remedies, 146

The brand’s growth will never come at the cost of its soul. Every jar, every tincture, every consultation reflects the same purpose that sparked the apothecary in the first place: a fight to heal, to transform, and to share that healing with others.

Final Thoughts From chronic pain and endless frustration to empowerment and entrepreneurship, the founder of Sunflowers & Skulls Apothecary has walked a difficult but inspiring path. What began as an act of survival has blossomed into a mission to help others reclaim their health and well-being.

“Every show is a learning experience,” she says. “I listen to what people need, and that’s how I grow. Just like nature, this business will never stop expanding and evolving.”

The growth has also been fueled by authenticity. Customers feel her passion and know she stands behind every product. “Seeing the five-star reviews, hearing that someone’s pain was relieved, that’s the real reward,” she adds.

“I want to continue helping people heal with nature and inspire them to begin their own transformations.”

With every sunflower comes light, and with every skull comes transformation.

Together, they form the perfect symbol for a business rooted in resilience, beauty, and the healing power of nature.

she plans to open a brick-and-mortar location, offering an expanded product line, consultations, and a welcoming space where people can learn about herbal healing firsthand.

“My dream is for Sunflowers & Skulls to become a trusted name—not just locally, but across the region,” she says.

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Sunflowers & Skulls Apothecary is not just a store—it’s a story of hope, healing, and the belief that nature holds the power to transform us all.

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EMPIREOF BUILDERS { THE{{ POWER HER VISION } EMPIRE BUILDERS }}

HOLLY CROCKER What inspired you to launch Senior Living Consultants NY, ( can take the NY out) LLC, and how has your background in occupational therapy shaped your approach?

I was inspired to launch Senior Living Consultants because I saw a critical gap in support for seniors and their families during one of life’s most challenging transitions. My background as an Occupational Therapy Assistant gave me firsthand insight into the complex medical, emotional, and social needs seniors face. Many clients were told they needed higher levels of care, but no clear guidance was offered on the next steps.

This experience motivated me to create a service focused on empowering clients with knowledge and choices, helping them find the best living environment that supports their health, independence, and quality of life. My occupational therapy training allows me to approach each case thoroughly, considering not just medical needs but also lifestyle, emotional well-being, and social factors.

Helping to ensure every recommendation is tailored to the individual.

Can you walk us through your journey in the healthcare field and what led you to focus specifically on senior living transitions?

I began my career as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, passionate about helping people regain independence.

Through internships in settings like OPWDD, memory cares, hospitals, and psychiatric centers, I gained a broad understanding of patient needs.

Working in a rehab centers, I focused on safe discharges, going beyond physical health, considering emotional well-being and social aspects. In care planning meetings, I often had to tell clients they could not safely return home without 24/7 support. When they asked, “Then where do I go?” I didn’t have an answer.

That experience inspired me to create a service that fills that gap and helps educate and guide seniors and their families through the transition into senior living. Now, I help turn a difficult moment into a more empowering, informed decision.

Why do you believe it’s so important to offer personalized guidance to seniors and their families during this time?

The transition into senior living can be incredibly overwhelming, for both seniors and their families. There is often a mix of emotions: fear, anxiety, uncertainty, and sometimes even guilt.

That is why personalized guidance is so important. My role is to help ease those emotions by offering clarity, support, and information every step of the way.

I make it a point to reassure my clients that they are not alone in this process.

I walk with them through each phase, ensuring they feel heard and supported to make an informed decision. I also work closely with families, creating a united team with one shared goal: to find the best possible fit for their loved one.

By providing detailed information about each community’s services, environment, and care options, I help my clients understand what is available and what will work best for their unique situation.

Personalized guidance means giving

them the confidence to choose not just a place to live but a place to thrive.

What are some of the biggest misconceptions families have about senior living communities?

Many families assume all senior living communities are the same, just in various locations. In reality, the level of care each can provide can vary significantly. Some communities hold Enhanced Assisted Living or Enhanced Memory Care licenses, allowing them to offer higher levels of support like catheter care, diabetes management, and help with mobility or transfers which bridges the gap between traditional assisted living and nursing homes.

However, not every community has these licenses, and not every senior needs enhanced care. Many thrive in standard assisted living with help for daily tasks, medication, and social engagement.

Another common misconception is that needing help with mobility, incontinence, ambulation, oxygen management, automatically means someone needs a nursing home. In many cases, enhanced assisted living or enhanced memory care can meet those needs while preserving independence and lowering costs.

Helping families understand these differences ensures they choose the right level of care and not just what they assume is necessary.

How do you tailor your consultation process to fit the unique medical, emotional, and lifestyle needs of each client?

I believe in a client led approach. Rather

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“CONTINUITY

of care, for me, isn’t about a start to finish timeline. It’s about being a STEADY, knowledgeable presence for as long as I’m needed, so clients always feel SUPPORTED, never alone.

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{{ EMPIRE EMPIRE BUILDERS BUILDERS }} “I was inspired to launch Senior Living Consultants because I saw a critical gap in support for seniors and their families during one of life’s most challenging transitions.”

than using a one size fits all model, I allow each client to guide the consultation process by sharing their individual preferences, priorities, and care needs.

Whether they’re focused on medical support, emotional well being, lifestyle amenities, or even aesthetic details, I listen carefully and use their input to identify communities that align with their criteria.

At the same time, I offer guidance to help clients think beyond their initial preferences. For example, a client may want a community filled with natural light and large windows, but I would also suggest other options that offer softer lighting, and warm home-like atmosphere, which is something they hadn’t considered. I always recommend touring multiple communities to gain perspective and ensure they are making the most informed choice. Ultimately, the decision is entirely theirs. I am here to support, inform, and offer options that best fit their unique situation.

What makes your services different from other placement or consulting agencies in the senior care space?

What sets my services apart is the combination of compassion, patience, and clinical insight I bring to each client.

I take the time to understand their full situation including their health needs, emotional concerns, personal preferences, and long-term goals. This way I can help them find a community where they will truly thrive.

Unlike larger agencies focused on quotas, I never rush the process. My clients are not just numbers; they’re treated like

family. While I no longer provide OT services, my background gives me the ability to understand medical complexities and anticipate future care needs. For example, if someone has dexterity issues and a catheter, I’ll factor in what kind of support they’ll need long-term.

This personalized, clinically informed, and deeply empathetic approach is what truly differentiates the way I work.

Can you describe a moment when your guidance significantly impacted a senior or family’s life during a difficult transition?

I worked with a client who was admitted to rehab after a hospital stay. Before admission, she was fully independent with managing her ostomy care. However, two weeks into her rehab stay, I noticed from the occupational therapy notes that she had become completely dependent on staff for this care. This was concerning because insurance coverage for rehab stays is limited, and if she remained fully dependent, she would likely be considered appropriate for a nursing home placement, which was not her or her family’s preference.

Recognizing this, I proactively reached out to her rehab care team to discuss the possibility of retraining and supporting her to regain independence with her ostomy care. Over the following week, with consistent work alongside her occupational therapist, she was able to improve her skills to the point where she only needed assistance setting up her supplies but could perform the actual care herself.

This progress was critical. It expanded her housing options to include assisted living communities that could support her level of care, allowing her to avoid moving to a nursing home. This case showed me how timely intervention and collaboration can make a real difference in a senior’s quality of life and future independence.

How do you maintain a balance of professionalism and compassion when working with families in emotional or urgent situations?

I genuinely care for each of my clients, regardless of their situation. I take time to listen closely to their pain points, frustrations, and fears so I can better understand what they’re going through.

Many clients need to feel heard and safe with the person guiding them through such a significant and emotional transition.

That said, maintaining professionalism is just as important as showing compassion.

If I become overly involved or allow my personal opinions to take over, it could compromise the client’s ability to make the best decision for themselves. My role isn’t to tell them where to go. It’s to walk beside them, provide reliable information, and support them as they choose the path that fits their needs best.

By staying grounded, empathetic, and respectful of their journey, I can be both a steady guide and a compassionate presence during what is often a very overwhelming time.

What should families consider or look for when touring potential senior living communities?

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{{ EMPIRE BUILDERS EMPIRE SHIFT+CONTROL BUILDERS }} “The transition into senior living can be incredibly overwhelming, for both seniors and their families. There is often a mix of emotions: fear, anxiety, uncertainty, and sometimes even guilt.”

When touring, families should pay attention to the community’s atmosphere, cleanliness, and how staff and residents interact. Notice if staff introduce you to other team members or know current residents by name. It’s a good sign of genuine care.

Understand the care services offered and whether they meet current and future needs. Look at amenities and activities that support engagement and well-being.

Ask about staff qualifications and ratios and try to get feedback from current residents or their families.

Trust your instincts and involve your loved one in the decision to find the best fit.

You provide support from consultation to post-move follow-ups — what does that continuity of care look like in practice?

From the very first consultation, I take the time to truly connect, making sure I understand every client’s medical concerns, emotional state, and unique life situation. I guide families through every step of the placement process from scheduling and attending tours, reviewing service plans, and helping them understand what each community can offer.

Once a decision is made, I assist with the transition, offering guidance on what to bring, how to communicate care needs, and coordinating with staff to ensure a smooth handoff.

But my support doesn’t end there. I continue to check in after the move, 156

making sure the client is adjusting well and that their new environment truly meets their needs. For some, that means weeks of follow-up; for others, I stay involved for months or even years, especially if care needs evolve.

Continuity of care, for me, isn’t about a start to finish timeline. It’s about being a steady, knowledgeable presence for as long as I’m needed, so clients always feel supported, never alone.

In your experience, what are some of the most common challenges seniors face when transitioning out of their homes, and how do you help them overcome those challenges?

Many seniors find it emotionally hard to leave a home full of memories, which can bring feelings of loss and uncertainty.

Downsizing and deciding what to keep can also feel overwhelming, and there’s often worry about staying independent and adjusting to a new place.

I support them by listening, breaking the process into manageable steps, and helping plan the move. I also guide families in finding communities that fit their needs, making the transition easier.

By staying in touch and offering ongoing support, I help seniors feel confident and comfortable as they start this new chapter. While we’re working toward the long-term goal of moving into a community, our current focus is on managing each day as it comes.

How do you stay current with the evolving landscape of senior living options and healthcare standards in New York?

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Healthcare is always evolving, so staying informed is key to guiding clients effectively. I stay in regular contact with senior living communities to track changes in services, staffing, and licensing.

I also monitor updates from the New York State Department of Health, the Assisted Living Federation of America (Argentum), and LeadingAge New York.

I regularly complete continuing education courses to maintain my license and certification as an occupational therapy assistant. I also maintain my certification as a dementia care specialist. This allows me to stay current with advancements in the field and broaden my expertise across various areas of practice.

By staying connected at both the community and state levels, I’m able to provide clients with accurate, up to date information based on the latest standards and trends in senior care.

What are the key benefits of transitioning to a senior living community that many people overlook?

Many overlook the improved quality of life senior living communities provide.

From social connection and camaraderie to relief from home maintenance and daily chores, residents can focus on enjoying life.

Meals are provided, support is available when needed, and some communities have medical professionals on-site.

Importantly, these communities promote independence while offering safety and support. They also allow families to return to being family members, not full-time caregivers, so relationships can focus on connection rather than care duties.

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{{ EMPIRE BUILDERS EMPIRE SHIFT+CONTROL BUILDERS }} “What sets my services apart is the combination of compassion, patience, and clinical insight I bring to each client.”

How does your mission to “empower seniors and their loved ones” show up in your day-to-day work?

Empowering my clients means putting them in control of every decision. I developed a software system that clearly breaks down each community’s medical services, financial requirements, and amenities, helping clients understand their options thoroughly. Based on their preferences, clients select which communities they want to visit.

I respect their privacy by not sharing their personal contact information without permission. Tours are arranged in ways that accommodate everyone, whether in person, via FaceTime, Zoom, or with family members joining remotely.

My goal is for clients to feel confident and comfortable in choosing the right community for them. Once a choice is made, I guide them through the paperwork and medical documentation needed to secure their placement.

Even after the move in, I stay in touch to make sure they’re settling in comfortably and receiving the support they need.

What advice would you give to someone who is just beginning the process of looking for senior care for a parent or loved one?

My advice is simple: breathe and take it one step at a time. The amount of information can feel overwhelming, so focus on what matters most each day and avoid rushing the process.

If you feel unsure where to start or

need guidance, consider reaching out to someone like me who can help navigate the options and provide personalized support throughout the journey. Having expert assistance can make the process clearer and less stressful for both you and your loved one.

Can you share how you build relationships with the senior communities you recommend, and why that matters?

Each senior living community seeks residents who will thrive in their unique environment. My goal aligns with theirs: to find the best fit that supports clients clinically, emotionally, and financially.

Building strong, independent relationships with each community is essential because it allows me to understand precisely what services and care they provide and where their limitations lie. This knowledge ensures that together, we work as a team to place future residents in communities where they will truly feel at home and supported.

Currently, I specialize in independent living communities, assisted living, and memory care. Moving forward, I plan to broaden my expertise to include Medicaid options and nursing home placements, so I can offer more comprehensive guidance to clients and families navigating all aspects of senior care.

What’s next for you and Senior Living Consultants NY, LLC — any exciting expansions or services on the horizon?

My next goal is to expand the team by bringing on care professionals with backgrounds similar to mine.

Collaborating with individuals who understand the healthcare field allows us to better relate to clients, even though we don’t provide direct medical advice.

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{ {ATWOMEN HOME WITH WELLNESS WHO INSPIRE }} } CONFIDENT CULTURE

UNCOVERING ROOT CAUSE YOU ARE ENOUGH.

BY BIANCAI DIACONU

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO

Why We Need to Rethink Thyroid Health Thyroid health is one of the most misunderstood—and misdiagnosed— topics in modern medicine.

It’s easy to get lost in the noise: one doctor blames your hormones, another prescribes a pill, your labs come back “normal” even though you feel anything but. And meanwhile, your symptoms stack up: the exhaustion, the brain fog, the mood swings, the stubborn weight that won’t budge.

Here at At Home With Wellness, we look at thyroid health through a different lens. A root-cause, wholebody, functional and foundational one.

In this article, we’re going to walk you through what that looks like. We’ll be covering: Are thyroid problems really genetic?

We’re busting this myth wide open— and explaining why your DNA doesn’t have to define your destiny.

Why up to 60% of cases go undiagnosed and what standard testing often misses.

Is your high cholesterol actually a thyroid issue in disguise? We’ll break down the link your doctor probably didn’t mention.

The 3 most overlooked root causes of thyroid dysfunction—and what we do about them in our practice.

The 6 household toxins quietly interfering with your thyroid health.

You probably use some of them every day.

Let’s dive right in.

Are Thyroid Issues Genetic?

Clients often come in convinced they’re trapped by their DNA. They think their mother’s, grandmother’s, or aunt’s thyroid problems are a promise of their own.

Yes, your genetics can influence how your thyroid functions. But your genes are like light switches—they can be turned on or off by the environment you create inside your body.

Think of them as seeds. Some may be more prone to thyroid dysfunction. But whether they bloom or stay dormant depends on the soil you plant them in, how you nourish them, and whether the conditions around them are hostile or healing.

Our bodies are deeply intelligent. They adapt. They respond. And every day, through the choices we make and the support we offer ourselves, we’re shaping how those genes express.

This can look like taking care of your gut microbiome to reduce inflammation; getting the right nutrients—like selenium, zinc, iodine, and others that help your thyroid thrive; managing stress (because chronic stress can activate those thyroid genes, while a calm, regulated nervous system can turn them off); and addressing environmental toxins, hidden infections, and trauma—all of which can influence your thyroid far more than a single gene ever could.

Why So Many Thyroid Issues Go Undiagnosed According to the American Thyroid Association, more than 20 million Americans have been diagnosed with a thyroid disorder and are currently on medication.

But what most people don’t know is that an estimated 60% more may be living with undiagnosed thyroid issues—completely unaware.

Part of the problem? The symptoms are slippery. Fatigue? Could be stress.

Weight gain? Must be diet. Trouble sleeping or mood swings? That’s just life, right?

Wrong. Thyroid issues can show up subtly, but they affect everything: metabolism, energy, mood, sleep, digestion—even how you process stress.

Then there’s the testing gap. Most doctors only check TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). But thyroid health is more than one lab value. TSH might be in range while deeper imbalances—like low Free T3, poor T4 conversion, or autoimmunity (like Hashimoto’s)—go undetected.

That’s why root cause work matters so much. If we stop at lab numbers, we miss the real story—the deeper imbalances shaping how you feel.

If you’re curious whether your symptoms might point to thyroid imbalance, we’ve created a free, simple quiz to help you explore it. It’s not a diagnosis, but a place to start listening more closely to what your body’s been trying to say.

Is Your High Cholesterol Actually a Thyroid Problem in Disguise?

If your doctor has ever flagged your cholesterol, you probably left the office with two instructions: eat less fat and consider a statin.

But were you ever told that your thyroid might be involved?

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{ {AT WITH { HOME SHIFT+CONTROL } } } WOMEN WHO WELLNESS INSPIRE “Yes, your genetics can influence how your thyroid functions. But your genes are like light switches—they can be turned on or off by the environment you create inside your body.”

When thyroid function is low, your metabolism slows, liver detox slows, and fat processing becomes sluggish.

This means LDL cholesterol can build up, even when your diet hasn’t changed.

Most people don’t know that high cholesterol is one of the earliest signs of low thyroid function.

Statins may lower the number. But they don’t address the root cause.

If your thyroid isn’t working properly, you may also be dealing with symptoms like cold hands and feet, dry skin, brain fog, or unexplained weight gain—signs that your body is trying to compensate.

And here’s something most protocols ignore: your thyroid and liver are in constant communication. If your liver is sluggish, your thyroid hormones won’t convert properly. If your thyroid is low, your liver won’t detox efficiently. It’s a feedback loop that has to be addressed as a whole.

The Top 3 Root Causes That Block Thyroid Healing If you feel like you’re not making any progress with your thyroid healing, here are three of the most common root causes that are often missed: Gut Imbalances: Your gut is full of receptor sites for thyroid hormones. If your gut lining is inflamed or coated in yeast, bacteria, or parasites, those receptor sites get blocked and conversion slows down. That means your body might be making enough hormone—but your cells can’t receive it. And your body might not be activating enough of it.

Mineral Deficiencies: The thyroid relies on minerals like selenium, zinc, iodine, magnesium, and iron. But due to soil depletion and chronic stress (which burns minerals fast), most people are walking around with major deficiencies.

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So, unless you’re actively restoring your mineral levels (and absorption), your thyroid will stay under-supported.

Hidden Infections: Viruses like EpsteinBarr often live in thyroid tissue, triggering chronic inflammation and autoimmune responses (especially in Hashimoto’s). These infections won’t show up on standard labs—but they can quietly sabotage your healing for years.

Through Autonomic Response Testing and personalized nutritional protocols, we help clients identify and address these underlying stressors. Because natural healing is designed to happen when nothing’s standing in the way.

6 Household Toxins That May Be Sabotaging Your Thyroid Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are everywhere—and they’re one of the most under-discussed contributors to thyroid dysfunction.

These chemicals mimic or block hormone signals, even in tiny amounts.

And they’re sneaky.

Here are six of the worst offenders: BPA & Phthalates—Found in plastics, scented products, and receipts Flame Retardants (PBDEs, PCBs)—In furniture, bedding, and electronics Perchlorate—A chemical that competes with iodine, found in some water supplies and foods Pesticides & Herbicides—Found in produce, lawn care, or indoor farming PFAS (Forever Chemicals)—In nonstick pans, textiles, cosmetics Heavy Metals—These can hide in

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deodorant, old or chipped ceramic dishes (especially with colorful glazes, may contain lead), aluminum foil, makeup (lipsticks, eyeliners), silver dental fillings, and more.

These chemicals can keep your thyroid in a constant state of struggle. This is why our Nutritional Therapy process doesn’t stop at food. We help our clients look at the full picture—stress, environment, toxins, nutrient levels— because it all matters.

The Only Way Out Is Through the Root You can’t truly heal if you’re only addressing the symptoms, not the system. You have to work at the root cause—the hidden stressors, imbalances, and layers underneath. That’s where real healing begins.

This is why Nutritional Therapy works.

It’s a steady, strategic unraveling of what’s been blocking you. It supports the thyroid, yes—but also the gut, the liver, the nervous system, and the deeper stressors that got you here in the first place.

If you want to see what it could do for you, you can book a free 20-minute consultation and chat with one of our Nutritional Therapists about it.

At Home With Wellness is a holistic health practice based in Mendon, New York—and we work with clients virtually across the country. Whether you’re navigating a diagnosed thyroid condition or just starting to explore what’s beneath your symptoms, we’re here to help you uncover the root and restore true, lasting balance. https://athomewithwellness.com/services/ nutritional-therapy/

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BUILDING A FOUNDATION FOR YOU LITERACY ARE ENOUGH. LIFELONG AND SUCCESS CLAINDA FLORENCE, DR.HEROUX CAROL ST. GEORGE PROFESSOR AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER, &

BY NICOLE WILLIAMS I PHOTOS

BY NSP STUDIO SEBRONE O. JOHNSON CEO OF EDCEPTIONAL

The Power of Starting Early Picture a newborn baby resting in her parent’s arms, eyes wide, ears tuned to the comforting rhythm of a soft voice reading a bedtime story. Even though she doesn’t understand the words, something powerful is happening inside her developing brain.

These are some of the ways for families and caregivers to support early literacy and they begin far earlier than many realize. For families in Rochester and beyond, early support for literacy, starting at birth or even before, is one of the most impactful investments that can be made in a child’s life.

They promote school readiness, emotional development, and long-term academic success. Most importantly, it can begin a lifelong love of books and learning.

Research proves that the brain is ready and working before the baby is even born.

Many parents are amazed to find that their newborn recognizes their voice as soon as they are born, demonstrating that babies are listening and learning while still in the womb. Parents have instinctively known for generations that very young babies begin to absorb language from the start.

“The first three years of life are the most important for building the foundation for language, literacy, and learning,” says Dr. Susan Neuman, professor of early childhood and literacy education at New York University. “If we wait until kindergarten, we’ve waited too long.”

In fact, by the time a child reaches age 5, 90% of their brain has already developed.

These early years are critical for building vocabulary, comprehension, and the socialemotional skills needed for school and life. Reading aloud, talking with children, singing songs, and pointing out letters and words during everyday activities all stimulate the brain and prepare the child for their literacy journey. These activities are simple, free, and can have a profound effect on the child’s future. Most people

think of literacy as reading and writing; however, it begins much earlier with the foundational skills of speaking, listening, and understanding.

“Early literacy is not about flashcards or formal instruction,” explains literacy expert Mem Fox, author of Reading Magic. “It’s about exposure—loving exposure—to the language of books.”

Literacy Rich Environments at Home Creating literacy-rich environments in the home, where books are read aloud, conversations are encouraged, and words are celebrated, give children a critical head start. Studies show that children exposed to frequent reading in their early years hear up to 1.4 million more words than children who are not read to regularly. Hearing words helps increase their vocabularies and builds connections for thinking and learning. There can be significant consequences for children who are not read to consistently. According to the National Early Literacy Panel, early exposure to language is one of the strongest predictors of future reading success. When we read to our children, we do more than teach letters and sounds. We build their confidence. We show them they’re valued.

We help them see themselves in stories and imagine worlds beyond their own.

There are several ways to secure books for your children and grow their personal libraries. Families can sign up with The Rochester, NY chapter of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Every month, the Imagination Library mails thousands of free, new, high-quality children’s books directly to the homes of families throughout our city. Children can receive these monthly, free, books mailed to their home from birth to age five. You can get more information at their website: Rochester Imagination Library . The Monroe County Libraries have many programs, books and materials to help too.

Children develop as readers in the context of relationships. When caregivers read and talk with their children from the very beginning, they send the message that says ‘You are important. Your voice matters. And books are something we share together.

This emotional connection through books and storytelling fosters both learning and bonding, reinforcing that reading is not just educational, it is joyful, comforting, and fun. You don’t need fancy apps or expensive books to begin building literacy. It’s the simple, consistent actions that matter most. ● Read every day: Even five minutes of reading aloud each night builds bonds and brains. ● Talk all the time: Narrate your activities, for example say “Now we’re eating breakfast, next we will get dressed.” Engage in backand-forth “conversations,” even with infants. ● Sing and rhyme: Lullabies, nursery rhymes, and silly songs help children recognize sound patterns, rhythm, and language structure. ● Visit your local library: Rochester’s libraries offer free story times, literacy kits, and book lending for families of all ages. ● Let your child lead: Follow their interests, maybe they like dinosaurs, trucks, or princesses. Giving choice is a huge motivator and makes reading feel fun, not forced.

These are a few ideas to help you start and keep a reading practice with your child: Keep board books in the car, diaper bag, or stroller. Make up bedtime stories together.

Ask open-ended questions like, “What do you think will happen next?” Let your child “read” the pictures and tell you the story.

“The earlier we foster language and reading, the more confident, curious, and capable children become,” adds Dr. Nell Duke, professor of education at the University of Michigan. “It’s not just about books. It’s about building a child’s world.”

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{ SHIFT+CONTROL } { LETS GET L.I.T. { QUEEN OF} ARTS } “When we are taught that we do not belong, we begin to doubt our own capacity to learn. But when we are nurtured in love, we claim education as a practice of freedom.”

Strong literacy skills don’t just impact how well a child can read. There are lifelong benefits that affect nearly every area of life: ● Academic success: Children with strong literacy foundations do better in all subjects— not just English or reading. ● Social-emotional development: Storytime builds empathy, imagination, and emotional understanding. ● Confidence and communication: Literacy helps children express themselves clearly and builds self-esteem. ● Economic impact: According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, children who are not proficient readers by third grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school.

“Literacy is the gateway to opportunity,” says Jacqueline Jones, former deputy assistant secretary for policy in the U.S. Department of Education. “When we start early, we level the playing field and change the trajectory of a child’s life.”

Learning Doesn’t Stop at the Classroom Door In an era where education is often confined to the four walls of a classroom, it is crucial to recognize that true learning extends far beyond these boundaries. For P-12 students, particularly within the Rochester public school system, achieving reading proficiency requires a concerted effort that integrates both in-school instruction and robust outof-school support. Research has consistently shown that the most effective approach to literacy development is one that embraces the science of reading, emphasizing the importance of parental involvement and community resources. In-school instruction is vital, and programs like EDceptional are paving the way for enhanced literacy outcomes. EDceptional provides targeted, evidence-based reading strategies tailored to meet the diverse needs of students. By employing techniques grounded in the science of reading, educators can effectively address various reading challenges, ensuring that each child receives the personalized attention 170

necessary for growth. However, while classroom instruction lays the foundation for literacy, it is the out-of-school support that often propels students to greater heights.

This is where initiatives like Let’s Get L.I.T. come into play. L.I.T. focuses on engaging parents and community members in the educational journey of children. By fostering a collaborative environment, Let’s Get L.I.T. empowers families to take an active role in their children’s literacy development. Parental support can significantly influence a child’s reading habits and attitudes. When parents are equipped with the tools and strategies to support their children at home, the impact on literacy outcomes is profound.

This partnership between schools and families is essential for bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. Combining in-school instruction with out-of-school support creates a holistic approach to literacy that can significantly improve reading proficiency among Rochester public school students. By leveraging the strengths of both EDceptional and L.I.T., we can create a comprehensive literacy program that not only accelerates reading skills but also fosters a love for learning.

Students who receive consistent support and encouragement, both at school and at home, are more likely to develop a positive attitude towards reading, ultimately leading to better academic performance.

By recognizing the value of out-of-school instruction and parental involvement, we can ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed in their literacy journey. Through the combined efforts of EDceptional and L.I.T., we are poised to make significant strides in improving reading proficiency for every child in Rochester, demonstrating that the best educational outcomes are achieved when learning is a shared responsibility.

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Conclusion Building a foundation for lifelong literacy and success requires more than what happens between the classroom walls it is a shared responsibility of schools, families, and communities. Dr. Gloria Ladson-Billings reminds us that “Education is about more than jobs; it is about freedom.” When we view literacy as a form of liberation, we see the necessity of extending learning beyond the school day into the homes, neighborhoods, and cultural spaces where children live and thrive. Dr. Asa Hilliard once wrote, “I have never encountered any children in any group who are not geniuses. There is no mystery on how to teach them. The first thing you do is treat them like human beings and the second thing you do is love them.”

This wisdom challenges us in Rochester to value the genius of every child and to create seamless bridges between in-school learning and out-of-school opportunities that affirm identity, nurture curiosity, and support families as partners in education.

By connecting literacy instruction to afterschool programs, faith communities, cultural centers, and family engagement efforts, we build ecosystems of learning that change trajectories. As bell hooks taught us, “When we are taught that we do not belong, we begin to doubt our own capacity to learn. But when we are nurtured in love, we claim education as a practice of freedom.” In Rochester, this means centering the lived experiences of families, honoring cultural wealth, and expanding access to resources that make literacy not just a skill, but a lifelong tool for empowerment. When schools and communities work hand-in-hand, literacy becomes the foundation for opportunity, agency, and generational success.

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EXPOSING THE FALSE CLAIMS BEHIND NY’S CDPAP

BY HEATHER M. BURROUGHS, ADVOCACY DIRECTOR FOR AUSTIMUP

Reprinted for Christine Piacentino’s One Tough Mother column with permission from by the author.

Governor Hochul’s administration justified a rushed and reckless overhaul of the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) by claiming it would stop fraud, waste, and abuse.

The reality? The data and outcomes prove the opposite—and what we warned would happen is now unfolding in real time. The disability community is paying the price every day, still waiting for NYS to admit this isn’t working.

and New York’s own SNAP program has a 14% error rate.

So why was CDPAP the target?

Ugly Truth: This overhaul wasn’t about stopping fraud—it was about political calculation. Governor Hochul avoided cracking down on higher-fraud programs like nursing homes or SNAP because she didn’t want to upset her voting base.

She thought no one would care if the disability community was harmed, and she miscalculated.

They don’t even have to say we were right—they just need to end the harm and help us. We are suffering, and we don’t deserve this.

Claim #1: CDPAP was riddled with fraud Reality: Before PPL took over, CDPAP delivered 400 million hours of care annually. The State justified this overhaul by citing 30 cases of fraud that occurred across decades. Even if all 30 cases added up to 4,000 hours that were improperly billed, that’s a fraud rate of just 0.001%—meaning 99.999% of all billed hours were honest. This wasn’t a system riddled with fraud—it was a manufactured excuse to dismantle a program that served people who are not been a budget priority.

For perspective, Medicaid-funded nursing homes and hospitals have documented fraud rates of 8–10%, 172

the system—Public Partnerships LLC (PPL)—is now under federal investigation for allegedly redirecting wages intended for home care workers to fraudulent or overseas bank accounts. This scale of PPL’s misconduct dwarfs the 30 fraud cases cited by the State as justification for the overhaul. In mere weeks, PPL’s questionable billing practices and labor violations have outpaced all the claims made against the prior FIs who served families for decades (New York Post).

Claim #2: Growth Indicates People Were Abusing CDPAP Reality: CDPAP grew because it was the only functioning lifeline in a collapsing system—not because people were taking advantage.

Key reasons: -A rapidly growing aging population -Limited nursing home beds encouraged families to find ways to keep their loved ones home

The Governor’s plan positioned PHOTOS ROBYN BATY PHOTOGRAPHY 1199SEIU (one of the state’s BY most powerful lobbying entities) to benefit.

Agency-based care options are Centralizing the workforce under one understaffed and lack availability, vendor made it easier for the union to especially for people with complex needs organize, potentially doubling the dues they collect and consolidating power.

Ugly Truth: Health policy experts For Hochul, it was a strategic move— expected this growth. The overall number boosting 1199’s base in hopes that the of people needing home care has gone union would mobilize support for her up in a predictable way. Many families in future elections. By handing them simply shifted from agency-based care to more influence and potential members, CDPAP because agency models couldn’t she was buying political loyalty at the meet demand. CDPAP remained the expense of the disability community. more flexible and cost-effective option.

Meanwhile, the vendor chosen to “fix” But instead of strengthening what

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{ SHIFT+CONTROL } } { ONE TOUGH MOTHER “Moms, in general, carry the majority of the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual load for their kids – marital status doesn’t matter.”

worked, New York State attacked it. Over 77,000 former CDPAP consumers have since been forced back into the more expensive agency model—not because they wanted to, but because PPL made CDPAP unworkable for them.

We Warned New York State—And We Were Right New York families, advocates, and fiscal intermediaries (FIs) raised the alarm well before rollout. Here’s what we said, and what actually happened: We warned PPL’s tech platform was unstable and posed privacy risks.

What happened: The FBI is investigating how caregiver wages were diverted overseas due to security failures in PPL’s system.

We warned PPL’s EVV tech would increase vulnerabilities, not reduce them.

What happened: PPL’s EVV system made it easier to impersonate supervisors, created barriers for people with disabilities, and excluded those with limited tech skills or Wi-Fi access. Despite serving a disability population, the platform is not ADA-compliant.

We warned that slashing administrative rates would cripple oversight.

What happened: Limited funds impaired the ability to perform check-ins, identify red flags, and provide ongoing support.

Oversight collapsed, and in true smashand-grab fashion, PPL’s leadership resigned, exposing the instability of this profit-driven operation.

We warned PPL’s system wouldn’t prevent billing for deceased consumers.

What happened: Medicaid was billed

for consumers who had died. Instead of addressing this failure, the State shielded those responsible and deflected blame onto families and former FIs. What We Got vs. What We Were Promised Governor Hochul promised a better system. Instead, she delivered one that is: Less secure Less accessible Less stable The previous system wasn’t perfect, but it worked—and had room for thoughtful improvement, including proposals like Senator Gustavo Rivera’s FI licensure bill.

The new system has caused widespread disruption, disenrollment, and distrust.

This harm wasn’t necessary.

Why in 2025 are we still acting like the rights of disabled people don’t matter?

Sources for Verification: NY Focus on CDPAP Fraud Claims vs.

PPL Allegations FBI Investigation of PPL Payroll Issues – Public Reports Senator Rivera’s Legislation on FI Licensure (S.5081) Medicaid Fraud Comparisons – OIG Annual Reports For more information, data, or to connect with impacted families, reach out to your local disability rights organization or CDPAP advocacy network.

This damage isn’t justified.

This disaster is Governor Hochul’s own making.

And now, what we feared is no longer hypothetical. There are multiple lawsuits, a Senate hearing scheduled, and active investigations by CMS, the Department of Justice (DOJ), the FBI, and other federal and state entities.

Yet, no one has been held accountable for harm unfolding on a scale we’ve never seen before.

When 100,000 Uber and Lyft drivers were underpaid, people were outraged.

In this case, nearly 400,000 caregivers and 300,000 consumers are impacted.

Where’s the outrage for our families?

We’re still waiting for the people and entities who harmed us to be held accountable—and for the families who rely on this program to receive the relief they desperately need.

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{ ROCKSTAR SINGLE MOM LIFE { APE+CANARY CORNER } }

“MASTERING MINDSET” YOU AREYOUR ENOUGH.

BY NICOLE HEROUX PHOTOSPCC

BY NSP STUDIO BYWILLIAMS CHRISTINEI CONTE,

You are already skilled, talented, competent, and capable. You wouldn’t have gotten this far in life otherwise! But when it comes to parenting, because you’re doing it on your own, you might be a bit unsteady or unsure. Something gets the best of you, and perhaps some anxiety or a little bit of fear sets in. You want to take your parenting to the next level. You seek greater confidence, better communication, a lasting connection, and to live life to its fullest with your kids. You want to build your family and become the leader of your family.

You don’t want to simply survive each day; you want to thrive. You want to create a legacy. Yet something gets in the way of those dreams and desires.

What’s stopping you from being the best version of yourself as a single mom?

Your immediate answer might be “my ex”, “my boss” or “my job”, “bills” or “money”, “lack of time”, or perhaps “everything”. I have some difficult news to share with you. The obstacle is not your ex, as impossible as he might be.

It’s not your boss, as demanding as she might be. It’s not your job, bills, money, time, or any of those other things. Yes, those people and things make this so much harder than it needs to be, and that’s frustrating. But none of that is the real problem. What gets in the way of being the best version of you as a single mom (or in any aspect of your life, for that matter) is much closer than you think. In fact, it’s all in your head.

Literally! It’s your mindset.

Your mindset can be your greatest ally or your worst enemy. You might have been told or adopted the belief that the life you want for you and your children is unattainable now because you’re a

single parent. I’m calling bullshit! It’s simply not true. I’ve seen the social media posts telling you that single motherhood is unnatural. While it may be inconvenient and our society wasn’t built for it, per se, it’s better now for single parents than ever before. I’ve seen the posts telling you that it’s nearly impossible. Well, I’m telling you it’s entirely possible. The more you buy into the “I can’t do this” mantra, the worse it’ll be for you. The key is your mindset, and your mindset is built on a belief system. So, ditch those old beliefs created decades ago when women were feeble, pathetic, damsels in distress, and deemed incomplete without a man to slay those nasty dragons. Pull up your Spanx® and let’s get serious!

For you to be a Rockstar Single Mom, it is vital to adopt a specific set of new beliefs. This new belief system will help you create the proper mental discipline it takes to achieve your goals as a parent.

This is not to say that these beliefs are accurate and true, or inaccurate and false. They are beliefs. Just like spiritual beliefs, they are unprovable, yet extremely powerful. A belief is simply what you decide is true for you. The power of it is the attitude, confidence, and conviction your belief system creates in the mind. Beliefs alter your mindset, thus the power of things like faith and optimism. Beliefs drive our emotions, and emotions drive our actions. It’s a powerful engine that’s running inside you all the time – regardless of the fuel (that is, belief system) you feed it.

Let’s examine five empowering beliefs to immediately adopt on your way to becoming a Rockstar Single Mom. 1. “I am irreplaceable.”

You are your child’s one and only mother.

It doesn’t matter how many other mother figures come in and out of your child’s life – you are her only mom. Your intuition and innate understanding of your child is yours alone. No one can ever replace you, your love, or the embedded sense of “I’d give my life for this child” that you possess. When your child knows that, that’s when you’ve entered Rockstar Single Mom territory. Let this sink into your bones: no one – not your ex, not his new partner, no lawyer, no judge, and no court-appointed law guardian – no matter how much they try, can ever take this away from you, unless you let them. Don’t let them! Get all those worries and ideas of losing your child out of your head. The only way you’ll lose that child – regardless of custody, visitation rights, living situation – is if you hand over your inalienable place in her life. Know who you are. You are her mother. You’re irreplaceable.

2.“I am selfless, with healthy limits.”

Like it or not, motherhood is steeped in self-sacrifice. That’s the nature of the human contract. When you grow, birth, feed, and raise a child well, you naturally sacrifice your physical body, your mental, emotional, and physical energy, and your time. Rockstar Single Moms also give up the ego – that selfserving, self-indulgent aspect of the psyche. The selfish stage of your life is over, momma. It came to a screeching halt when your first child was born.

Some moms wrestle with this throughout motherhood. They can’t give up that self-serving stage of life, or they simply refuse. Truth be told, they’re not the rockstars. By acknowledging your place in this human contract and fully accepting the responsibility of it, selfishness exits

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{ ROCKSTAR SINGLE MOM LIFE } “What’s stopping you from being the best version of yourself as a single mom? Your immediate answer might be “my ex”, “my boss” or “my job”, “bills” or “money”, “lack of time”, or perhaps “everything”.”

s and selflessness steps forward. With that said, there is a balance to be struck.

Selflessness doesn’t mean eternal selfsacrifice. There are healthy limits to this self-sacrifice thing bestowed upon mothers (and women, in general). Some people call this boundary setting. Some call it common sense. Whatever you choose to call it, striking this balance is a sign of a Rockstar Single Mom. 3. “I am enough.”

When it comes to raising children, it’s very difficult to get things perfectly right.

You may be superhuman, but you are human nonetheless. Your child has a mind, personality, spirit, and soul all his own. You’re interacting with a sentient being, and you will, from time to time, mess up. But a Rockstar Single Mom knows how and when to apologize and rebuild when she makes mistakes. She gets enough right on a consistent basis to ensure her kids are healthy, happy, safe, and well-adjusted. She knows she is exactly what her child needs because she is tuned in, aware, and connected.

The good news is that it only takes one very committed parent to pull this off. It’s wonderful if two parents are working at it, but in fact, it actually only takes one great parent. That one is a Rockstar Single Mom, and she is more than enough.

4. “I am raising my child for today and the future.”

Your primary objective is to raise your child well, not just for the “now” but also keenly focused on his future. Your decisions influence their future outcome.

Parenting is multidimensional, and single parenting requires an exceptional ability to manage many things at once. Good thing your brain is built to multitask, momma!

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This complex approach includes: leading with confidence, building long-lasting connection, empowering the child to think and do for himself, building the child’s self-esteem and resilience, employing positive discipline techniques, and creating a respectful atmosphere of open communication. Simultaneously, you must ensure the child’s developmental needs are met at all stages. All of these are just the broad brushstrokes. The Rockstar Single Mom is present in this moment, but she also has an eye on the future. She never forgets that her actions and words today will have a lasting impact on her child forever.

5. “I am focused on creating a connection with my child.”

When you are faced with the option to connect with your child or to do anything else, choose connection. This may sound like it’s in opposition to self-care or being happy in the moment. It isn’t. There’s a time for everything. Connection is created in the moment. It is taking the opportunities that arise to make joyful, loving, fun memories. Some of the greatest memories your child will have when they are adults are the laughter, adventures, and travel you experienced together. Will they remember the very first time they rode a bicycle? Probably not, unless it involved crashing horribly and leaving a permanent scar. But they’ll remember that trip to the ocean, the mountain you climbed together, the time you took them fishing, and how bravely you put the worm on the hook.

They’ll remember when you taught them how to row a boat at the lake, and movie nights with mom’s special snacks. They’ll remember the drive-in movie you took them to, how they wore pajamas there, fell asleep in the back,

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and drove home with the windows open. Connection comes from your child seeing you as not just “a parent”, but as a trusted guide who makes life good - even if you’re on a budget or have limited time together.

Top athletes have said success is 10% physical preparation and 90% mental preparation. Because single parenting is the “Olympics of Parenting”, you have to become like an athlete. That is, you have to be mentally prepared and focused. Granted, this isn’t an actual game. But this life is the most important game you’ll ever play. The sooner you get your head in this and take full responsibility in your role as a single parent, the better off you and your children will be.

Begin by adopting these five beliefs. Take them in as your personal gospel, your creed. Whenever you aren’t sure what to do or say, run your options up against these five beliefs. More than likely, the answer will appear. Truth always shows up when given the opportunity to be seen through the lens of dignity.

Christine Conte is an ICF PCC Credentialed Certified Life & Leadership Coach, a Certified Confidence Coach, and a Certified Parenting Coach. Christine is a published author, speaker, and she conducts workshops on a variety of topics, including empowerment, communication, life purpose, & vision boards. As a Rockstar Single Mom for 18 years, Christine raised two incredible daughters on her own and on her own terms despite many impediments.

She’s helped women become empowered in the face of difficult life challenges, particularly divorce and single parenting, as a professional coach for over eight years. You can contact Christine at: www.ChristineConteCoaching. com and www.DivorceCoachingSystem.com. You can also join the Rockstar Single Mom Facebook community at www.facebook.com/groups/rockstarsinglemom.

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one open door can open doors across a community.

Our most important work happens outside the four walls of our bank. KeyBank gets involved, supporting people who make a difference and working with communityfocused organizations through investments, philanthropy, and volunteering. We believe that together we can keep our communities full of hope, compassion, and opportunity, one open door at a time.

KeyBank thanks YWCA for making a difference.

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MYARE HOT ENOUGH. SUMMER YOU

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS

BY ROBIN DEWINDBY NSP STUDIO

My daughter came home from college looking less like my kid and more like an Instagram influencer; tan, toned, and well-moisturized. Every time she came down the stairs, I braced myself —whether she was going to the gym, the grocery store, or to sit on the couch—she looked like she’d been professionally styled.

It was annoying.

it—five mornings a week. All the coordinated workout sets arrived at the house. I’d be hunched at my desk working in pajamas, drinking coffee, and she’d be down the stairs, water bottle in hand, off to sweat in 95-degree heat by choice.

Slouchy sweats? Somehow chic.

Sports bra and leggings? A full-blown athleisure moment. Jeans and a “casual” top, effortless.

Meanwhile, I was still in my 12-year-old sweatpants from the night before, wondering when exactly she had become cooler than me.

There were no protein smoothies or hydration goals. We slept in past

When I was her age, the morning routine looked... different.

Now, when she cooks, it’s the same avocado, egg, and toast breakfast, and I’m lucky if she’s home for dinner once a week. Between two part-time jobs and a surprise summer romance, I was a “maybe” or the backup plan.

I found myself trying a little too hard to reconnect.

She had signed up for a summer of “hot yoga” at a trendy new studio in the village and was faithful about 184

There was no exfoliation. No daily SPF. No 10-step nighttime skincare routine with serums named after fruit acids. We used baby oil and reflectors to tan and went to bed in full makeup—mascara usually smudged.

During college summers, we did not buy tanning packages, boutique fitness memberships, or routinely get manicures and pedicures.

We did not have money.

There was no need to document anything. The “stories” we told were actual stories—told out loud, to each other, in a friend’s basement over a bag of Doritos.

The old rhythms were gone.

The Sunday margarita nights. The shared Netflix binges. The spontaneous trips to Trader Joe’s, where we’d plan out meals for the week that we never quite got around to cooking.

Poof. Gone.

our steps, our boyfriends’ locations, or our macros. And we certainly didn’t track our feelings.

noon, hoped we made it home with both shoes, and prayed a few sips of water would take the edge off the night’s bad decisions.

A 3 a.m. Perkins Supreme Burger was my version of self-care.

We thrived in chaos.

Exercise and wellness weren’t “lifestyle choices”—they were gym class requirements you tried to get out of with a forged note. We didn’t track

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There was no need to post, share, or curate the moment.

We were in the moment… but without evidence.

We weren’t journaling. We weren’t aligning our chakras or writing affirmations. We were just living— unfiltered, unplanned, and honestly, a little reckless.

But I was bored, the summer was hot, and I missed my daughter. So one day, I blurted out, “I like yoga.”

She looked at me skeptically. “Mom, this isn’t the kind of yoga you do with

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{ HER EDGE } } { SHIFT+CONTROL “Exercise and wellness weren’t “lifestyle choices”—they were gym class requirements you tried to get out of with a forged note”

your friends at the Y. It’s fast and hard, I’m not sure you can keep up.”

As if I didn’t already feel old and out of place in my own house.

She was probably right.

I turned to my daughter, unsure if I’d embarrassed her or myself. She just smiled and gave me a quiet, appreciative nod.

the random little things she used to tell me on the way to school. We found a new rhythm. A way back in.

A connection.

I had surprised her.

I still don’t fully understand her generation—or the pressure they put on themselves to be constantly productive, flawless, filtered, and photographed. But I respect the discipline, the drive, and their deep commitment to self-care.

I looked up the studio anyway and saw they also offered Hot Pilates.

I’d been quietly investing in my own wellness while she was away at school—taking a women’s strength training class at a local gym—so I figured I could probably handle the workout. It was the heat I was worried about.

I’m guessing my mother didn’t always understand me, either.

She’s back at school, and I’m still going to hot Pilates— alone now, but I go, and I miss her.

We went together. And yes—she was right. It was intimidating. The studio was white, bright, and at least 95 degrees. Everyone was young. Everyone was glistening. Everyone had on coordinated, expensive 5-inch shorts, bras, fancy yoga mats, and Owala water bottles. There were pre-class and post-class selfies.

She taught me something.

In that hot, white room, surrounded by women more than half my age in expensive leggings and perfect ponytails, I found something unexpected: a reminder that connection doesn’t always look the way “it used to be.”

I wore leggings and was the only one with a tank top on, covering up my belly among the ponytails, and without question, the oldest person on the floor by a solid 40 years.

I had more than kept up.

By the end of class, my face was red and I was a sweaty mess. The instructor clapped her hands and said, “You rocked it!”

Hot Pilates became our thing. We motivated each other. We talked in the car on the way there and back— about work, her day, her dates, and

Sometimes, it shows up in new routines, unfamiliar places, and 95-degree rooms.

You just have to be open to it.

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{{ SHE THRIVES }} } } {{ WALKING SHETHRIVES WARRIOR SHE HUSTLES TALKS

WHEN DISCOMFORT MEANS YOU’RE EVOLVING

BY LORI MURPHY

Have you ever had a season in life where nothing feels the same? Activities you once enjoyed no longer light you up.

You find yourself craving silence instead of noise, solitude instead of busyness.

People, places, and habits that used to feel aligned now feel heavy, even draining. And in those moments, you may catch yourself wondering: “What’s wrong with me?”

The truth is—nothing is wrong with you.

You are not broken. You are evolving.

Growth rarely looks glamorous in real time. In fact, it often feels uncomfortable, confusing, and even lonely. But discomfort is not a sign that you are falling apart.

More often than not, it is evidence that you are being prepared for what’s next.

The Signs of Evolution When we are in transition, our inner world begins to shift before our outer world catches up. Here are some of the most common signs: • You feel uncomfortable in the familiar.

That routine, relationship, or environment that once felt safe now feels restrictive, like clothes that no longer fit.

• Your passions feel different. The hobbies, interests, or even career paths that once fueled you may no longer spark joy. This isn’t failure—it’s your soul inviting you to explore what’s next.

• You crave quiet. The noise of constant notifications, social obligations, and endless to-do lists suddenly feels unbearable. You long for silence, clarity, and peace.

• You feel misaligned with certain people or places. Some relationships begin to feel heavy. Certain environments drain your energy instead of filling your spirit.

• You question yourself. It’s easy to wonder, “What’s wrong with me?” when life feels off. But this questioning is often the very indicator that you are shifting into a higher level of awareness.

Why This Happens So why does growth feel like loss before it feels like expansion? Because in order to step into alignment, space has to be made.

Think about a garden. Before new blossoms can grow, dead leaves and branches need to be cleared. That pruning process doesn’t always look pretty—it can even make the plant look bare for a while. But without it, the plant can’t thrive.

The same is true for us. When we are evolving, life begins to strip away what no longer serves us—outdated beliefs, old habits, sometimes even relationships.

It can feel disorienting, but this clearing is sacred. It is making room for new blessings, new opportunities, and new growth that could not exist otherwise.

You are not breaking down. You are breaking through.

How to Embrace the Season Navigating this chapter requires patience, self-compassion, and trust. Here are a few ways to embrace the process: 🌿 Feel it without judgment. Discomfort is not failure—it’s feedback. Instead of pushing it away, let yourself acknowledge what feels off.

Lean on grounding practices. Journaling, meditation, yoga, or even simple

breathwork can calm your nervous system and help you stay centered in the midst of uncertainty.

Remind yourself daily. Say to yourself: “I am evolving. I am not behind. I am exactly where I’m meant to be.”

Stay open to what’s ahead. The very things you feel misaligned with now are creating space for opportunities you couldn’t have imagined before. Trust that this chapter is part of a bigger picture.

The Blessing Around the Corner If you’re walking through this season right now, let this be your reminder: nothing is wrong with you. You are not losing yourself—you are rediscovering yourself.

The discomfort you feel is a sign that your prayers are being answered and your manifestations are beginning to take form. Alignment doesn’t come without release, and release doesn’t come without discomfort.

Keep breathing. Keep moving. Keep trusting.

Your biggest blessing is closer than you think.

If this resonates with you, I encourage you to pause and reflect on where you feel discomfort right now. Instead of resisting it, ask: “What might this be making space for?”

Remember—you are evolving, and the best is yet to come.

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SEASON OFPOSITIVE CHANGE {{ {WOMEN WHO INSPIRE { SUCCESS SHIFT+CONTROL } } }}

ONE SECOND. ONE DECISION. YOU ARE ENOUGH. A WHOLE NEW LIFE.

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS

BY NATASHA POLITO BY NSP STUDIO

In January, I wrote that you’re only one second away from changing your life. Back then, it was an idea I believed in. Now, I’ve lived it.

Are you happy with where you are right now? I’ve been on a journey of tough decisions, the kind we all face sooner or later. The decision to stay or to go. To book that safari in Africa or to serve drinks on a beach somewhere.

I grew up watching my mother and my Godmother retire in their mid-40s. Now that I’m here myself, I remembered the promise I made years ago: to start living on my terms before the stress of life took a toll on my health. I didn’t have a pension, and my savings weren’t enough to stop working, but I knew I could still make changes to increase my peace of mind.

It all came to a head on New Year’s Eve. I was sitting in my office, working a job I loved, with people I loved, in a career I had built since I was sixteen. My computer screen glowed with yet another repetitive task I’d done a thousand times before. I was good at it, but it didn’t light me up anymore. I was one of the few working that holiday eve, and I knew that within the next hour I would wrap up that chapter of my life and start the new year somewhere completely different.

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I took off the golden handcuffs.

Really, everything worked out.

Since then, my life has shifted in ways I couldn’t have imagined. I work from home in a new house with a smaller mortgage. I sold my car and my cabin. I no longer battle a long commute, and I have more time to rest and recharge.

You’re one second away from changing your life. One second to decide. One second to leap.

What’s the decision you’ll make today before another year passes you by?

Has it all been perfect? Absolutely not. There have been “what the f*” moments. Times I questioned whether I made the right call. But looking back now, as I still unbox my house, am learning my new job, and living in a town where I don’t know many people, I know it was worth it.

That’s the truth about life changes.

They’re not about guaranteeing comfort. They’re about choosing courage. Maybe the new job won’t work out. Maybe the house won’t sell for what you hoped. Maybe the curveballs will come faster than you expect. But if you keep your goal in sight and stick to your plan, the payoff is real. You will no longer feel trapped, you will feel empowered.

My results? The house sold for more than we thought. The cabin was bought by out-of-town family.

The convertible is off to meet its new owner. I still feel like I have to prove myself at my new job, but those nerves will fade in time.

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THE BEST LUXURY? A GOOD YOU ARE ENOUGH. RHYTHM

BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS

BY CHELSEA BOE BY NSP STUDIO

Time is the greatest luxury you’ll find and a good rhythm at home and when you travel is how you’ll feel it, everyday.

Creating rhythm in your home through organization and decor leads to an everyday upscale feel (and once you have it at home, it follows you everywhere.

We promise!) Let’s dive into all the ways rhythm is the secret to luxe living.

You’ll know you are truly curating your space when you are able to slow down. When everything is in place, getting ready or preparing meals feels cohesive and refined. Everything should be functionally placed so it’s easy to access and utilize. Properly thinking through organization and function makes everyday tasks feel easy and curated. The gift of operating at the slowest pace of your nervous system is something that comes from arranging your home and life in a way that allows it. Always listen to your own capacity and build your home around that.

Stylistic organization cuts down on the mental capacity it takes for everyday habits. When taking care of yourself is as easy as breathing, it’s not longer a luxury but a way of living. Plus, having gorgeous organization is one more way to add beauty to your life. This gives you the ability to stay relaxed rather than having to mentally tune in. The ability to thrive in a routine that allows for self expression and joyinstead of narrowed thoughts and focus that can’t lift. Create rhythms that allow you to be approachable and interactive as you go about your day.

Examples of how organization gives you time back:

-With towels of all sizes organized in all the primary spaces like each bathroom, the hall closet, kitchen spaces, and maybe even a spot in the bedroom you have what you need on hand at all times. It’s easy to pop one into the towel warmer or dryer, they are nearby when it’s time for skincare, or right by the sink when doing a hand scrub.

containers or all glass canisters, it’s about what you love.

With decor that reflects you, you are given the gift of existing in your ideal space that centers you and your family.

A properly decorated space can reflect your history, the spaces you find relaxing, what you admire and desire for life, and all the ways you’ve achieved what you wanted.

Here’s how decor can reflect you:-sports memorabilia collected and earned throughout your lifetime elegantly displayed showcasess your history -art bought during travels displays your favorite memories of family vacations -sculptures and decor displayed from artists that inspire you or inspired by places you hope to visit is an everyday reminder of how much life there is left to grow into.

-Kitchen items styled and stored in a minimalist, easy to access fashion create peace every morning.

-Easy to access supplies and ingredients in organizers that feel sturdy and sleek make every experience a place to slow down and enjoy (even if it’s just scooping coffee).

Creating rhythm in your home through organization allows you to choose your experience; whether that’s all wooden

Once your space is decorated to reflect you, it is an everyday model of the things that increase your oxytocin, dopamine, and sense of belonging.

When you have a rhythm that allows you to be self expressive…. you feel self trust, you feel supported by your home, by yourself, and by anyone who helps curate your home. Every choice you make for your home… every rug, artwork, or curtain… every single choice matters.

This ability to feel supported, to slow down, and to look to the future while enjoying every second of even the little moments is how to create a lifestyle that feels fulfilling and refined.

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ACKNOWLEDGING YOUR INNER WISDOM

BY LISA WAGNER

Unleash Your Creative Nurturer Throughout history, women have been ignoring their instincts; their gut feelings.

We have been conditioned by those who wish to dominate and control us that we do not know what is inherently best for us. That we are too emotional to make rational decisions. That is the patriarchy and human history-long misogyny talking; not your actual cellular knowing. Women’s entire being know deeply what is needed in almost all situations. Especially those that require compassion, curiosity and healing. It is also humble enough to search for answers and to be curious enough to be willfully vulnerable in the learning.

Once you begin to acknowledge your inner wisdom without second guessing or analyzing it, you truly unleash your creative nurturer that resides in all of us.

Women throughout history repeatedly shows us how true that is.

I recently saw an Instagram reel

by Crystal Dawn Alchemy, (@ crystaldawnalchemy4), where she educates us about Mary Magdalene’s teachings and her story. She quotes the found teachings of Mary as saying, “There is no such thing as sin.” Crystal points out what all of us women can probably sense; that “sin” was used by men in power to control women’s bodies, minds, speech, movements, etc. for centuries. That oppressive energy is beginning to crumble as we have begun to tap into our own inner and inherent power without fear in recent years. The patriarchy is in overdrive damage control mode to maintain their power, but many of us can feel that slowly slipping away.

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us with a rising matriarchy and how do we prepare for our long-awaited rise to equanimity?

Growing up in the Methodist church, Mary Magdalene was always portrayed as a woman who sinned so greatly that she needed a savior. That she was weak without that male guidance and Jesus’ willingness to save her soul from demons and eternal damnation. In truth, she was the Apostle of the Apostles. A leader, a healer and a truth-teller. Crystal states in her post’s caption how this newly acquired knowledge of Mary awoke the cells in her body to what it was she always knew in her deepest being; that she is filled with a divine purpose on this earthly plane. The patriarchy doesn’t want you to feel that inherent knowing. They diminish us to maintain their fragile power. We are the ones who understand that it only leads to suffering. That we are meant to lead, heal and nurture one another’s light.

For decades, I, like most women, suppressed my feelings and my opinions to be a well-liked, or a “good girl.” To never choose the creative path or one that would be perceived as weak because it was “too emotional.” As a young teen, I began to listen to the voices of feminists like Georgia O’Keefe, Frida Kahlo, Jane Fonda, Gloria Steinem and the like. They stood proudly in their womanhood and their passion for equality, bodily autonomy and selflove. O’Keefe was quoted as saying, “I decided to start anew—to strip away what I had been taught, to accept as true my own thinking. This was one of the best times of my life.” To not be held down any longer by constraints placed

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upon her and expectations by the public and possibly within her relationship and subsequent marriage to art dealer and photographer, Alfred Stieglitz until his death, served O’Keefe well. She became prolific and formidable in the art world on her own merit. She never felt the need or attraction to attention.

She craved privacy and time to do her work. Upon Stieglitz’s death in 1946, O’Keefe moved out west to the wideopen landscape of Taos, New Mexico, to create important works that prove she was a serious figure in American art. That work exemplifies her soul’s expansion and ability to stand on her own with strength to escape the mundane nature of day-to-day life; something men are traditionally encouraged to do, while women are then expected to support their efforts to do so.

“I decided to start anew—to strip away what I had been taught, to accept as true my own thinking. This was one of the best times of my life.” Georgia O’Keefe Frida Kahlo was another such artist who lived in the shadows of her husband, Diego Rivera, a well-known muralist and fresco painter. Yet, she carved out a space for her voice and her artistic vision to be expressed. Her first name was “Magdalena,” and her original spelling for “Frida” was the Germanic “Freida,” meaning “peace.” Kahlo changed her name’s spelling to possibly disassociate from the then Nazi Germany origins, as she believed in equality and social justice. She and nine of her female friends formed an informal group called the “Cachuchas,” literally meaning “baseball caps” to discuss the patriarchal Mexican government and rejected its conservative values. Her bus accident

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{ A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE } { MANIFESTING YOUR TRUE PURPOSE } “Throughout history, women have been ignoring their instincts; their gut feelings. We have been conditioned by those who wish to dominate and control us that we do not know what is inherently best for us.”

at the age of 18 also helped to shape her, as her bed-ridden state was the impetus to her art career. Her pieces represented life, death and what was her life’s difficult yet, as she deemed it, beautiful reality. She never shied away from it and instead, used her work to be ever present in every aspect of her life, including her immense physical and mental suffering. Being bedridden for much of her adult life, she was quoted as saying, “I am not dead, and I have a reason to live. That reason is painting.”

Her final solo art exhibit happened one year before her death. She came by ambulance and lied in a hospital bed for the entirety of the show, as she had been forbidden by her doctors to leave her bed. Kahlo was masterful at finding workarounds to express her experiences, her heart and the ideals that mattered most to her.

“I am not dead, and I have a reason to live. That reason is painting.”- Frida Kahlo

will walk upon and draw from for their identity and wisdom.

On days that we do not feel as though we have the strength or energy to live fully in our own being, we can use these examples of divine feminine energy to buoy our spirits and rise up when we feel weighted down by the beliefs thrown upon us by male-derived ideals meant to control and weaken our resolve. I look to my little granddaughters who will look to myself and all their female ancestors and community to be the examples they will be defined by until they discover their own paths. It is our responsibility to acknowledge and celebrate our inner strength, resilience and cellular knowing so that they may grow to be our leaders who embrace creative thinking, compassion and empathy. We are the fertile ground they

Today, right in this very moment, stand alongside your heart with that inner knowing that you are enough. You are what the patriarchy fears and wishes to banish to maintain control over all things. Because feminine energy is ruled by love, you are what will change the tides of suffering. You, my dear one, are the change we all seek. Proudly stand in that light and take a deep, soul-bathing breath knowing you will be a part of the evolution this world is waiting for as our female ancestors before us charted and excavated for our soul’s growth and inner wisdom. The creative nurturer that you are is patiently standing by to be summoned to become the leader of the matriarchal revolution.

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THE POWER OF YOUR BREATH

BY MEG TOBIN

Welcome back to Breathing Space, a regular column where we slow down, reconnect with our bodies, and build a personal toolkit for resilience. I am Meg Tobin, LMHC, a body-centered psychotherapist, retreat leader, and endof-life doula. I am so glad you are here.

Last time, we explored grounding and how it brings us back to the present when anxiety pulls us away. This month, we are tuning in to one of the most accessible tools we have for the same purpose: the breath.

Why Intentional Breathing Matters When we feel anxious, breathing often becomes rapid and shallow, which can intensify stress. Thoughts race, focus slips, and the body feels unsettled.

The breath is connected to the body’s built-in stress and calming system, called the autonomic nervous system.

This is the part of us that runs things without consciously thinking about it, like heartbeat, digestion, and the stress response. By changing how we breathe, we can send signals to this system to either rev up or settle down. Faster, shallow breaths can cue a state of alert.

Slower, deeper breaths can activate the body’s calming response.

There are many styles of intentional breathing, and in general, when our exhale is longer than our inhale, our systems are cued towards calm. Today we will use 4-7-8 breathing, adapted from pranayama in yoga as a simple way to reduce stress. It can help during everyday challenges, and it works best with regular practice. Try it in the morning and evening.

4-7-8 Breathing 198

You will keep a 4-7-8 ratio. Pace is personal. If you feel lightheaded, slow down and soften the counts.

1. Position. Sit or stand with your spine tall.

2. Place your tongue. Rest the tip of your tongue behind your upper front

mouth for a count of 8, making a soft whoosh.

7. Repeat. This is one cycle. Complete four cycles in total.

The practice takes about two minutes.

What is happening inside Bringing attention to the breath redirects the mind to the present and helps settle the fight-or-flight response. Slow, measured breathing supports the body’s relaxation response and can improve focus, steadiness, and a sense of safety.

Reflect You cannot breathe in the past or the future. Your breath is always here. Let it anchor you whenever you feel detached, anxious, tense, or stressed.

Thich Nhat Hanh reminds us: “Breathing in, I calm body and mind. Breathing out, I smile. Dwelling in the present moment I know this is the only moment.”

What did you notice in your body and mind after four cycles? Where do you feel a small shift?

teeth. Keep it there throughout.

3. Clear the lungs. Exhale completely through your mouth with a gentle whoosh.

4. Inhale. Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose for a count of 4.

5. Hold. Pause the breath for a count of 7.

6. Exhale. Breathe out through your

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I would love to hear. Write to me at meg@therapycny.com.

You’ll also find me speaking about nervous system regulation at The Intentional Feminine on September 27, 2025, in Cato, NY. More details at intentionalfeminine.com.

And looking ahead to 2026: I’m excited to lead upcoming retreats in Puerto Rico and Ireland—spaces for deeper healing, connection, and growth.

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IN BALANCE }} {{ LIFE SHIFT+CONTROL

3 THINGS IF YOU SIT

BY KAITLYN VITTOZZI

Through yoga I have learned that just a few small changes can transform the way we experience our day. Sitting is not the enemy but our culture does a lot of it, and sometimes not in the best position. Over the next few minutes, I’ll introduce you to three practical and powerful habits you can adopt—starting right now—to help counteract the negative effects of sitting whether it be work, school, or at home. These aren’t drastic measures; they require no expensive equipment or complicated routines. Instead, they’re simple, evidence-based practices that fit easily into any daily schedule.

Whether you’re a student, a professional, or anyone who finds themselves spending a lot of time in a chair, these three actions can boost your energy, improve your posture, and support your overall well-being.

Let’s explore together how just a little movement and mindfulness can make a big difference—no matter how much time you spend sitting.

1. Find Neutral Spine at the Wall: This is one of the first things I have clients do during their first yoga therapy session with me. If low back pain or shoulder discomfort is an issue for the client, we will repeat this often. So go ahead and stand with your back against the wall. Your heels can be a few inches away from the wall and you can bend your knees if that feels more easeful to you. You want to find the S-Curve of your spine. This is your neutral posture, not twisted or bent, but your ideal posture when you’re standing up tall.

Try to connect the back of your head,

your shoulders and your buttocks to the wall. Between the wall and your low back, their should be a space.

You can slide your hand between the wall and your low back but it shouldn’t be large enough that you can put a football in there. Similarly I’ve lifted my arms here so you can see the curves. For many of us who type and text a lot, just opening up across the chest and getting our shoulders to connect with the wall can be enough to combat neck pain or “tech neck.” Long term, this might take some abdominal engagement to prevent overarching the spine. If all you can do is once a day move away from your chair and stand at the wall, that will support you. Over time try to practice this s-curve seated, walking and while exercising and see if it makes a difference.

2. Practice Self-Empathy: It is totally normal within our culture to rush to judge ourselves and those around us without even realizing it. What may seem like a simple comparison “I am bad at this but Anna seems to get this no problem” can be us being not only hard on ourselves but also those judgements aren’t particularly helpful for self-growth and making a change. This practice comes from Nonviolent Communication. The next time you experience a negative feeling about yourself, pause with your hand on your heart. Simply say “How Human of Me.” You can add on by viewing the full feelings and needs list at www.nycnvc.org.

So it may turn in to “How human of me to feel self-conscious when my need for clarity isn’t met” or “How

human of me to feel nervous when my need for security isn’t met.” Once you really cultivate empathy for yourself, then you can share it with others – and what a positive ripple that would make. Move away from using “good”, “bad”, “better”, “best”, “weird:, etc” 3. Breath Meditation: Set a time for five minutes at some point during the day. All you are going to do is notice your inhale, and then your exhale. Notice breathing in and notice breathing out. At the end, take a brief moment to reflect on what that experience was like for you. Why? This will help calm your nervous system and can also lead to pain reduction in your trunk. This also gives you a mindful minute to slow down rather than rush into reactivity. Truth be told, your to-do list will never be done and also it will always get done, so how do you want to be with it? Let your breath help you determine it.

Questions? Email me or schedule a free phone consultation at PenfieldYogaTherapy.Com

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{ ANIMAL CARE CORNER }

GHOUL THE CAT

BY THE ACS TEAM

Ghoul came to ACS as a trapped stray in October of 2024. She came in with many teeth missing, missing half of her tail, active fleas, brown discharge from her ears, and a soft swelling on her mammary.

On top of all of her other concerns she had when entering our care, she was also diagnosed with Cerebellar Hypoplasia (a neurological disorder that makes her wobble) She also has extra toes!

Of course, upon intake, we took are of Ghoul and everything she needed. She was also spayed at our clinic.

Ghoul stayed with us for about a year and a half with a short time being in foster care. She required some behavioral support to help gain her confidence in trusting humans. Eventually, Ghoul went to Ithaca PetSmart in hopes of her finding a home. Ghoul would be a cat we would consider to be “hard to adopt” with her medical concerns and behavioral status.

We are grateful Ithaca PetSmart accepted her and even more so because she was adopted from there! It wasn’t a week later Ghoul found her adopters.

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In fact, her adopter ended up being an employee at a full-service veterinary clinic who wanted to adopt Ghoul, help her with her mass, and then find her an appropriate home. Ghoul’s mass ended up being an abdominal

unmatched. Her gentle demeanor and unique polydactyl paws make her all the more special. Ghoul lives with a mammary mass and Cerebellar Hypoplasia, but these do not hinder her ability to live a full, loving life. She is a testament to resilience and grace, living each day with an unwavering spirit. Ghoul is more than just a cat, she is a companion, a friend, and a source of unwavering love. Her adoption will not only change her life but also bring immeasurable joy and warmth to her new family.

Ghouls is estimated to be around 7 years old.

hernia that was successfully removed. Her original vet staff adopter sent us a note letting us know she is going to be keeping Ghoul as she has fallen in love with her and gets along well with her other cat.

Biography - Meet Ghoul, a cat whose sweetness and loyalty are

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Sami Wyatt Assistant Executive Director Animal Care Sanctuary 353 Sanctuary Hill Ln. PO Box A East Smithfield, PA 18817 Mobile: 607-222-0267 E-mail: swyatt@ animalcaresanctuary.org

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