Our Explore Issue
HOME + DESIGN
EXPLORING REAL
ESTATE OPPORTUNITIES
ACROSS NORTH TEXAS
LIFE + CULTURE
SERVING MCKINNEY AND PROSPER THROUGH CONNECTION
UNSPOKEN STORIES MATTER
A FRESH PICNIC FAVORITE
JulyExplore Issue
We live in a world that values productivity and efficiency, where every moment seems to be mapped out and planned. I’ll admit, I fall into this mindset sometimes too, thinking that the only worthwhile activities are those that can be measured, calculated, and optimized. But the truth is, a life that is too structured is missing something vital— space for exploration.
We need room for discovery, for trying new things, for being a beginner. Sometimes, it’s in those unplanned moments where connections are made, memories are created, and trust is built.
In recent months, I’ve been reflecting on how my family spends our time together. We’ve realized that our happiest moments often come when we step away from screens and routines. Our "adventures" don’t always involve grand trips—they could be as simple as playing a board game on the patio, trying out a new trail, or exploring a new part of town to find a quirky little café.
This issue is all about giving yourself permission to explore—whether it’s a spontaneous trip, a new hobby, a new recipe, or simply making time for those unstructured moments with the people you love.
Let’s make space for the unexpected and the unexplored, and remember that it’s often in these moments that the richest connections are formed.
Happy exploring!
SHARON DUFFY, PUBLISHER
@MCKINNEYANDPROSPERLIFESTYLE
July 2026
PUBLISHER
Sharon Duffy Thomas | sharon.duffy@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
William Thomas | william.thomas@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Alexis Jacobs | alexis.jacobs@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rose Scoggins of Pixel Perfect Rose, Leah Hardy
Photography, Chef Donna Collins
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
1: Love Life Foundation Backpack drive supplies middle school students with school supplies. To donate: lovelifefoundation.com/support-us 2: Love Life Foundation spreads love and compassion to at-risk women and children in the community. 3: The Love Life Foundation envisions a world where each individual thrives in a nurturing environment. 4: The mission of Love Life is to spread love and hope to our community at-risk. 5: The beautiful Maylee Thomas Fuller honoring Love Life's amazing and talented young volunteers. 6: Love Life Foundation partners with local agencies to provide valuable aid and support. 7: Women in Service is a yearly event of the Love Life Foundation that honors women.
Photography by Pixel Perfect Rose
1: Burress Design Group celebrating the grand opening of their design studio and showroom. 2: The Burress Design Group's new studio is located at 6958 Mediterranean Drive in McKinney. 3: Burress Design Group collaborates with builders and contractors to deliver intentional, precise project execution. 4: Christina is known for blending rich textures, layered patterns, and curated vintage-modern interiors. 5: Christina designs timeless, luxurious interiors inspired by personal storytelling, history, and character-rich pieces. 6: Burress Design Group creates award-winning, timeless luxury residential and commercial interiors with sophisticated design. 7: Christina Burress founded and leads Burress Design Group, a boutique luxury interior design firm.
At Jensen Orthodontic Arts, we combine ART, SCIENCE, and EXPERTISE in orthodontics to customize your smile and improve or reconstruct the function and harmony of your teeth. That alone says a lot, but Dr. Doug Jensen also uses his training in the closely-related specialty of PROSTHODONTICS and dental aesthetics to create wonderful outcomes for unusual or complex dental problems– Think VENEERS, CROWNS, IMPLANT CROWNS, and DENTURES. Dr. Jensen is one of the few dual specialists in both orthodontics and prosthodontics in America, and we are lucky to have his experience in this area. He offers clear orthodontic treatment options including CLEAR BRACES, LINGUAL BRACES, and CLEAR ALIGNER THERAPY to meet your aesthetic needs. Count also on getting treatment rendered efficiently without ignoring the balance that should be present between the teeth, joints and muscles in a properly functioning bite.
Dr. Doug Jensen, DDS, MS
Board-Certified Orthodontist, Prosthodontist
Don’t wait! Come see us for an expert’s Complimentary Evaluation
Get a straightforward assessment and roadmap to the PERFECT SMILE!
Veneers
Photos & Smiles by Dr. Jensen
Burress Design Group Opens New Showroom and Studio
Burress Design Group, an award-winning luxury interior design firm, has opened a new showroom at 6958 Mediterranean Drive in McKinney. The firm specializes in sophisticated residential and commercial interiors, blending timeless elegance with modern design. Led by Principal Designer Christina Burress, the team creates highly personalized spaces, including luxury outdoor living environments. The new showroom offers clients an immersive look at the firm’s curated materials, furnishings, art, and design process. Learn more at BurressDesignGroup.com
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HUTCHINS BBQ offers the best in slow-smoked, authentic Texas BBQ and serves mouthwatering brisket, beef ribs, Texas Twinkies, and delicious sides! Catering, delivery services, and nationwide shipping are available, bringing our delicious BBQ to your events or doorstep. Visit us online at hutchinsbbq.com
ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS
EXPLORING REAL ESTATE OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS NORTH TEXAS
Texas Property Sisters Helps Buyers and Sellers Explore North Texas Opportunities Through Relationships, Strategy, Market Expertise, and Community Connections
The North Texas real estate market continues to evolve, creating new possibilities for buyers, sellers, and investors searching for the right opportunity. From rapidly growing communities to lifestyle centered developments, the region remains one of the country’s most active and desirable housing markets. For Texas Property Sisters founders Julie Williams and Monica Szewczyk, helping clients navigate those opportunities is about much more than simply buying or selling a home.
Founded in 2013, the boutique real estate team was built around relationships, personalized service, and a hands-on approach that continues to define the company today. Julie and Monica say their goal was always to create a high-level real estate experience that still felt approachable and genuine.
“We wanted to build something personal, entrepreneurial, and meaningful,” says Julie. “Real estate gave us the opportunity to combine business strategy, marketing, negotiation, and relationship building in a way that felt very rewarding.”
The duo specializes in residential real estate throughout McKinney and surrounding North Texas communities, assisting everyone from first time homebuyers to luxury clients and relocating families. What clients often appreciate most, they say, is the direct involvement they receive throughout the process.
“It is just the two of us involved in every aspect of every transaction,” says Monica. “We stay deeply involved and want every client to feel fully supported and confident throughout the process.”
That personal approach has become increasingly valuable in today’s shifting market. While higher interest rates have caused some hesitation among buyers, Julie says the current market is also creating new advantages for prepared buyers willing to think long term.
“There is never a perfect market, but there are always opportunities for buyers and sellers who are prepared and well advised,” explains Julie. “Sometimes the best opportunities come when other people are sitting on the sidelines waiting for conditions to feel perfect.”
For sellers, presentation and marketing have become especially important. Monica says move in ready homes, updated properties, and homes located within highly desirable communities are still performing very well throughout North Texas.
“Presentation and marketing matter now more than ever,” shares Monica. “That is where experienced agents can make a huge difference.”
Communities such as McKinney, Prosper, and Celina continue attracting buyers from across the country thanks to strong schools, growing corporate presence, and expanding amenities. Julie and Monica are especially excited about the rise of lifestyle centered communities designed around walkability, entertainment, golf, trails, and gathering spaces.
“Buyers are looking for more than just a house now,” says Julie. “They want a lifestyle and a sense of connection.”
At the same time, the pair says historic downtown revitalization efforts throughout North Texas are helping preserve local charm while supporting continued growth. That balance between development and community identity is something many buyers are actively seeking.
Julie and Monica say buyers should watch growing communities investing in entertainment, trails, dining, walkability, and strong schools. Areas focused on lifestyle amenities and long-term infrastructure improvements are continuing to create strong value and real estate opportunities throughout North Texas.
Their strong ties to the local community also play a major role in the way they approach real estate. Beyond their work with clients, Julie and Monica are deeply involved in local charities, volunteer work, and community organizations throughout the area.
“Real estate is not just about properties,” says Monica. “It is about people, relationships, and helping communities thrive.”
Living and working in North Texas gives them firsthand insight into neighborhoods, schools, local businesses, and the qualities that make communities feel like home. They believe that understanding helps clients make more informed decisions while also building long term trust.
“We believe strongly in giving back to the communities that have supported us throughout our journey,” Julie says. “This community has been good to us, and we want to repay that.”
Looking ahead, Julie and Monica believe North Texas will continue seeing strong real estate opportunities fueled by population growth, infrastructure expansion, and continued corporate
investment throughout the region. As more companies and families relocate to Texas, they expect demand for housing and lifestyle driven communities to remain strong.
They encourage buyers and sellers to pay close attention to long term development, transportation improvements, school districts, and quality of life amenities when evaluating future opportunities.
“At the end of the day, we truly love what we do,” says Monica. “Helping clients navigate major life transitions and seeing families build their future here in North Texas is incredibly rewarding.”
For Julie and Monica, success has never been measured solely through transactions. Instead, they say the greatest reward comes from relationships built over time and the trust clients continue placing in them year after year.
“We have been lucky to serve multiple generations of families,” says Julie. “That means a great deal to us because it reflects the trust people place in us.”
TexasPropertySisters.com
Monica Szewczyk
972.979.4699
monica@texaspropertysisters.com
Julie Williams
972.838.0262
julie@texaspropertysisters.com
A FRESH PICNIC FAVORITE
Chef Donna Collins Shares Bright Lemon Potato Salad Bringing Lighter
Flavor to Summer Gatherings
ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONNA COLLINS
For Donna Collins, Founder and CEO of The Jelly Queens, good recipes are all about adding your own personality. Her Lemon Potato Salad does exactly that, bringing a fresh, lighter spin to the traditional picnic favorite.
Inspired by a conversation with her friend Paula, who was searching for a healthier potato salad option for a family gathering, Donna decided to swap the usual mayonnaise base for one of her favorite olive oil dressings. The result is a bright, lemon forward dish packed with fresh dill, garlic, Dijon mustard, and just enough cayenne pepper to add subtle heat.
“It’s light and healthy,” Donna says, noting the recipe still pairs perfectly with all the classic meals typically served alongside potato salad. She especially recommends serving it warm with bacon for an extra savory twist.
Unlike heavier versions, this salad feels fresh enough for summer entertaining while still delivering bold flavor. Donna prefers serving it slightly warm, so the potatoes fully absorb the dressing, though she says her husband enjoys it cold straight from the refrigerator.
Her final advice? “Make it your own.” From pickled artichokes and extra herbs to shredded chicken or tuna, Donna encourages cooks to customize the recipe and have fun with it.
LEMON POTATO SALAD
For the Salad :
• 2 pounds Baby Potatoes chopped or if in a hurry sliced
• 2 teaspoon Salt
• ½ cup Dill, chopped
• ½ cup Red Onions, minced
Dressing
• 1 cup Olive Oil, Extra Virgin
• 8 tablespoon Lemon Juice
• 3 -4 Zest of lemons
• 4 Garlic Clove, finely minced
• 6 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
• 2 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black Pepper, ground
• 1 teaspoon Sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne
Instructions
1. Leave skins on and cut potatoes in half
2. Add 1 teaspoon salt and bring to a boil.
3. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until fork tender.
4. While the potatoes are cooking, make the dressing. Add all the ingredients for the dressing in a bowl and whisk till combined and set aside.
5. Check the potatoes, if fork tender, drain the water and place potatoes in a large bowl.
6. Add dill and red onions to the dressing and pour the dressing over the potatoes while they are still warm.
7. Toss well and let this salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the potatoes soak up the liquid.
8. Garnish with cracked black pepper, lemon wedges and sprigs of fresh dill
Fresh, bright, and easy to make ahead, Donna’s Lemon Potato Salad brings a flavorful twist to a classic favorite. Whether served at a summer cookout or casual family dinner, it’s a simple dish that leaves plenty of room for creativity.
SERVING MCKINNEY AND PROSPER THROUGH CONNECTION
EXPLORING VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS MCKINNEY AND COLLIN COUNTY COMMUNITIES
For more than 27 years, Volunteer McKinney has helped connect residents with meaningful ways to serve throughout Collin County. From mentoring students and supporting food drives to helping nonprofits with marketing or technology, the organization continues to make volunteering more accessible for people of all ages and schedules.
ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY VOLUNTEER MCKINNEY
“Volunteer McKinney exists to connect people who want to serve with nonprofits that need support,” says Dr. Stephanie Robinson, Executive Director of Volunteer McKinney. “At our core, we believe our community becomes stronger when people come together to help one another.”
Dr Michelle Buggs, Lisa Hammett, Keyata Gaddy, Lana Griffin, Dr Stephanie Robinson, Michelle Rowe, Courtney Hugghins Holmes, Linda Bonner, Shawn Whitlock
The organization works as a community wide connector, helping residents discover opportunities that align with their interests, skills, and availability. Stephanie says one of the biggest changes she has seen in recent years is the growing desire for more relational and purpose driven volunteer experiences. Families are serving together, businesses are looking for team opportunities, and students are seeking meaningful experiences beyond simply earning service hours.
Volunteer opportunities range from community clean-up projects and donation drives to nonprofit event support, tutoring, senior services, and administrative work. There are also opportunities for people with specialized skills including photography, social media, grant writing, leadership development, and technology support.
“One thing I love is that volunteering does not always look the same,” says Stephanie. “Some people serve behind the scenes, while others thrive in direct community interaction. There truly is a place for everyone.”
Volunteer McKinney currently supports hundreds of local nonprofit agencies and connects thousands of volunteers throughout the year. The organization also hosts large community events including Make a Difference Day and leadership programs that encourage collaboration across Collin County. Stephanie says the goal is not simply filling volunteer spots but helping people discover causes they genuinely care about.
Stephanie also emphasizes that volunteering is not limited to people with large amounts of free time. Some opportunities only take an hour, while others can become long term commitments and leadership roles. Whether someone prefers hands on projects, working directly with families, or helping quietly behind the scenes, Volunteer McKinney works to make service approachable and meaningful for everyone interested in giving back to the community.
For those unsure where to begin, Stephanie encourages people to simply start small.
“You do not have to commit to serving every weekend for the next ten years to make a difference,” she says. “Sometimes one simple opportunity becomes the beginning of a lifelong passion for service.”
One memory that continues to stay with Stephanie came during last year’s Make a Difference Day event. A young girl initially told her mother she did not want to volunteer cleaning a local park. But after helping remove broken glass and debris, the child quietly admitted she was glad they came because someone could have gotten hurt if the mess had been left behind.
“That moment genuinely stayed with me,” says Stephanie. “Volunteering does more than improve our community. It changes the hearts of the people serving.”
Stephanie hopes readers remember that even small acts of service matter. “Start where you are,” she shares. “Someone in our community will be better because you did.”
VolunteerMcKinney.org
300 Davis St Ste 137, McKinney, TX 75069
972.542.0679
Unspoken Stories Matter
Exploring Real Stories from “Ordinary” Lives with Extraordinary Journeys Inspire Deeper Human Connection and Compassion
In a world filled with carefully curated social media feeds and polished snapshots of life, Kelsey Billingsley is creating space for something more real. Through her podcast, Unspoken Lives, she invites listeners into honest conversations centered around resilience, faith, grief, healing, and the life experiences that quietly shape people every day.
“For readers unfamiliar with Unspoken Lives, I would describe it as real conversations with everyday people and the experiences that have shaped who they are,” says Kelsey. “The mission behind the podcast is to create space for deeper, more honest conversations in a world that often stays at the surface level.”
What makes the podcast stand out is its focus on stories many people might otherwise never hear. Rather than spotlighting celebrities or influencers, Kelsey intentionally highlights ordinary individuals carrying extraordinary journeys. From grief and loss to perseverance and hope, each guest brings a perspective listeners often deeply connect with.
“The person beside you at a coffee shop, your neighbor, or someone you pass at work may be carrying a story you would never expect,” shares Kelsey. “I think we’ve lost some of that human connection in a world dominated by highlight reels and polished snapshots of life.”
The idea for the podcast first began after someone close to her shared a deeply personal experience that even friends and family had never fully known about. That moment stayed with Kelsey and opened her eyes to how many untold stories quietly exist around us every day. Though launching a podcast initially felt intimidating, especially while balancing motherhood, travel, and a full-time corporate career, she says the idea never fully left her heart.
“I truly feel my faith is the only explanation for why the idea continued to stay on my heart,” says Kelsey.
Stepping into podcasting required her to move far outside her comfort zone. Naturally quiet and reserved, Kelsey admits she wrestled with fears about public opinion and uncertainty surrounding whether people would connect with the conversations she hoped to create. Still, encouragement from her husband and children helped push her forward.
“I wanted them to see that meaningful things often require courage before confidence and that you do not have to feel fully ready in order to begin,” says Kelsey.
ARTICLE BY ALEXIS JACOBS PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEAH HARDY PHOTOGRAPHY
Many episodes explore deeply emotional topics, and Kelsey says creating a comfortable environment for guests is one of the most important parts of the process. She approaches conversations casually and authentically, often comparing the experience to sitting down for coffee with a friend.
“There is no pressure for anyone to sound polished or perfect,” Kelsey says. “Some conversations are emotional, and sometimes people pause, cry, or gather themselves, and that is completely okay.”
What has surprised Kelsey most since launching the podcast is the response from listeners who see parts of themselves reflected in the stories being shared. She says many people have reached out to say certain episodes helped them feel understood,
encouraged, or more compassionate toward others facing unseen struggles. Those moments have reinforced her belief that storytelling has the power to connect people in meaningful ways. “I’ve learned that growth often comes from simply continuing to take the next step before you feel fully ready,” says Kelsey. “I’ve also realized how much I genuinely love creating meaningful conversations and helping people feel connected.”
As the podcast continues growing, Kelsey hopes listeners leave feeling encouraged, understood, and less alone in whatever season they may be facing. More than anything, she wants Unspoken Lives to remind people of the power found in slowing down enough to truly listen to one another.
Summer Seafood Gazpacho
ARTICLE BY ALYSSA LAVY, MS, RD, CDN
A REFRESHING, CHILLED, SUMMER FORWARD SOUP THAT PACKS IN PROTEIN AND FIBER!
This summer seafood gazpacho screams summer and is the perfect, refreshing meal, snack or appetizer to beat the heat - whether you’re entertaining or enjoying a quiet meal with family. It’s packed with some of the season’s most flavorful produce and provides satisfying fiber and protein to help keep you feeling full, while still being light enough to enjoy on the hottest of summer days. Plus, there is no need to turn on the oven or the stove, keeping your kitchen (and you) cool as a cucumber! You can enjoy this chilled soup as is, or add toppings like chopped jalapeños, cilantro, or creme fraiche and scoop it up with tortilla chips!
Ingredients: (yields ~8 C gazpacho)
• 8 large tomatoes
• 1 large cucumber
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 small sweet onion
• 1 jalapeño pepper
• ½ tsp hot sauce
• 3 Tbsp lemon juice
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 ¼ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 2 Tbsp parsley (fresh or dried)
• 8 oz lump crab meat
• 8 oz cooked shrimp, chilled (about 8-12 large shrimp)
*Optional suggested toppings include: cilantro, tortilla chips, chopped jalapeños, creme fraiche, or additional parsley.
Directions:
1. Cut tomatoes into large chunks, approximately 6-8 pieces each. Set aside.
2. Slice cucumber into thick slices. Set aside.
3. Mince garlic. Set aside.
4. Chop onion into medium sized pieces. Set aside.
5. Slice jalapeño pepper in half, lengthwise. Remove seeds if you prefer less heat. Chop jalapeño pepper and set aside.
6. Add tomatoes to large food processor. You may need to add about half of the tomatoes, pulse for a few seconds and then add the remaining tomatoes depending on the size of your food processor. Pulse tomatoes until chunky and slightly pureed. You will continue to puree the tomatoes once the additional ingredients are added, so do not pulse until completely smooth.
7. Add remaining vegetables (cucumber, garlic, onion, jalapeño pepper) to food processor with the tomatoes. Add hot sauce, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper and parsley. Replace the lid and pulse to desired consistency – the gazpacho should be pureed, but still somewhat chunky and not completely smooth.
Alyssa Lavy, MS, RD, CDN, CPT is a registered dietitian, personal trainer and mom of 2. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from The George Washington University and her Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology from Teachers College Columbia University, where she also completed her dietetic internship. She has been an ACSM certified personal trainer for over a decade. Alyssa is the owner of Alyssa Lavy Nutrition & Wellness, a wellness brand offering nutrition communications, program development and consulting services for individuals and corporations.
Website: alyssalavy.com Instagram: @alyssalavyrd
8. Store in an airtight container and chill in the fridge for at least one hour before serving. If not serving right away, this gazpacho can be made in advance and stored in the fridge overnight or for a few days until ready to serve. If making this gazpacho in advance, purchase fresh seafood or thaw frozen within 1 day of serving to keep seafood fresh and store seafood separately, only adding when ready to serve. When ready to serve, chop the shrimp and add approximately 1-2 oz chopped shrimp and ~1 oz crab meat to each bowl. You can add optional toppings, such as chopped cilantro, chopped jalapeños, tortilla chips, creme fraiche and an additional sprinkle of parsley, if preferred. Enjoy!
Note: This gazpacho can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up for 4 days, without the seafood. Store seafood separately and add when ready to consume.
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ICE CUBES ICE CUBES ICE CUBES ICE CUBES ICE CUBES
CreativeIceCubes FOR SUMMER
Stay Cool with Fun Infused Ice Recipes
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Summer can be sweltering, but you can beat the heat with these fun and refreshing infused ice recipes. Not only are they a great way to stay cool, but they also add a delightful twist to your favorite beverages.
CONTINUED >
Coffee Ice Cubes for Iced Coffee
Transform your iced coffee experience by using coffee ice cubes. This simple trick ensures your drink stays strong and flavorful without getting watered down.
Ingredients:
• Freshly brewed coffee
Instructions:
1. Brew Coffee: Make a pot of your favorite coffee.
2. Cool and Freeze: Allow the coffee to cool, then pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze.
3. Serve: Add the coffee ice cubes to your iced coffee for a rich, undiluted flavor.
Edible Flower Ice
Create stunning and elegant ice cubes using edible flowers. These pretty ice cubes are perfect for special occasions or adding a touch of beauty to everyday drinks.
Ingredients:
• Edible flowers
• Water
Instructions:
1. Prep the Flowers: Rinse the edible flowers thoroughly.
2. Fill the Tray: Place the flowers in an ice cube tray, filling each compartment halfway with water.
3. Freeze Partially: Freeze until the water is just starting to set, then fill the rest of the tray with water to fully submerge the flowers. This helps keep the flowers centered in the cubes.
4. Freeze Completely: Freeze until solid.
5. Serve: Use these beautiful ice cubes in your favorite drinks for a floral touch.
These infused ice recipes are not only practical but also add an extra layer of enjoyment to your summer beverages. Enjoy these refreshing and creative ways to stay cool all season long!
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
The 10% Target Mindset
Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT
Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.
He calls days later.
That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.
The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.
The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.
“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”
FEATURING JEN COHEN
Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.
1 2
MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS
The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.
STACK THE DECK
Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.
3
DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE
No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.
4
SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP
Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.
5
NEVER MISS A MONDAY
The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.
Birdwatching Made Simple
EXPERT TIPS TO MAKE BACKYARD BIRDING A FASCINATING AND PEACEFUL PART OF YOUR LIFE.
ARTICLE BY MARSHALL ZWEIG
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Thinking of putting up a bird feeder? You’re not alone. Backyard birding is the second most popular hobby in the U.S.—right behind gardening. Bob Gors of Wild Birds Unlimited in Macomb, MI, shares expert tips to help you get started—and get results.
START WITH THE RIGHT SETUP
If you’re new to bird feeding, don’t overcomplicate it. Bob recommends starting with a tray feeder, either pole-mounted or hung. “It’s accessible to the widest range of birds,” he says, “and it lets you experiment with different seed blends.”
Before setting up, take a look at your yard. Birds prefer to feed near trees or shrubs where they can perch and scan for predators. “If your yard is wide open, it’s going to be harder to attract them,” Bob notes.
Quick Tip: Place your feeder about 15 feet from trees or shrubs to give birds a safe place to wait their turn.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT SEED—AND SKIP THE FILLERS
Not all bird seed is created equal. Bob advises avoiding blends with fillers like milo, wheat, or oats. “Those are agricultural leftovers. Most birds won’t eat them.”
Each Wild Birds Unlimited store owner customizes their seed blends, based on the birds in each store’s specific area. Their blends contain no fillers—just high-quality ingredients birds actually eat. They’re available in no-mess varieties—no shells, no waste. “With standard seed, up to 40% of the weight of the bag is shells,” Bob says. “No-mess is 100 percent pure bird food.”
Quick Tip: Choose fresh, unscented, unflavored seed. Birds don’t need additives—just what they’d eat in nature. Check the ingredients on the bag: sunflower should be the first ingredient—since it’s the seed most birds love.
IT’S REMAINED PART OF THEIR LIVES: ONE COUPLE TOLD BOB THEY STILL START EVERY MORNING ON THE PORCH WITH COFFEE AND BIRDSONG. “IT BECAME A RITUAL THAT
KEEP UNWANTED GUESTS AWAY
Squirrels causing trouble? Try safflower seed. “It tastes bitter to squirrels but attracts cardinals, grosbeaks, titmice, nuthatches and chickadees,” Bob says. Hot pepper blends also work—birds can’t taste the heat, but mammals can.
To deter large birds like starlings, Bob recommends using a cage around tube feeders to limit access. Tube feeders with small perches help discourage bigger birds. For tidier feeding, seed cylinders— compressed seed—are a great low-mess option.
Quick Tip: “Start simple,” Bob advises. “Watch what’s happening in your yard, then adjust as needed.” Unlike loose seed, cylinders make the birds work harder—and give you longer-lasting views of the birds.
SPOT BIRD BEHAVIOR (AND BACKYARD DRAMA)
Once your feeder’s up, the show begins.
“Different species act differently,” Bob explains. “Cardinals are typically the first and last birds of the day to the feeder. Male hummingbirds are very territorial and will defend ‘their’ feeder. Chickadees come to the feeder in a flash; they have a grab-and-go strategy. “In our backyard, orioles and bluebirds battle over live mealworms,” he adds. “The female bluebird often holds her ground.”
Quick Tip: You don’t need to track every species. “Just sit back with a cup of coffee and watch,” Bob says. “You’ll start noticing more than you’d expect.”
CONTINUED >
SEASONAL CHANGES TO EXPECT
Feeder activity increases in summer, thanks to fledglings. “By July, your bird population has basically doubled,” Bob says. At the same time, some favorites— like male orioles—start their fall migration as early as July.
One common myth? That goldfinches leave in winter. “They stay put,” Bob says. “But the males molt into drab-colored feathers, so people often don’t recognize them.”
Quick Tip: Keep feeding in winter. “Some of the best bird watching happens in the colder months—different species of birds visit us in the winter.”
HOW TO ATTRACT SPECIFIC BIRDS
Want cardinals? Use tray feeders or tube feeders with U-shaped perches. “They’re heavier birds,” Bob says. “Standard tube feeders are hard for them to use.”
Hoping for bluebirds? They prefer parklike settings. If your yard fits, try a nesting box with a 1.5-inch entrance, and offer live mealworms far away from the nest box.
Hummingbirds? Stick to sugar water— no red dye needed. “And expect a show,” Bob adds. “Males are fiercely territorial at the feeder.”
Wild Birds Unlimited carries feeders tailored to specific birds, but Bob and his team focus on fit. “We ask about your yard, your goals, and guide you from there.”
Quick Tip: Not sure what birds are in your area? Ask your local Wild Birds Unlimited shop.
WHY BIRD WATCHING STICKS
Bob says many customers started birding during the pandemic—and never stopped. “They looked out the window and realized something was there,” he says. It’s remained part of their lives: one couple told Bob they still start every morning on the porch with coffee and birdsong. “It became a ritual that many people now cherish,” Bob says.
For expert help making bird watching your ritual, stop by Wild Birds Unlimited in your area or visit wbu.com.
events
JULY 2ND
14th Annual Prosper Pride in the Sky
Frontier Park | 5:00 PM
The town’s premier 4th of July event takes place on July 2nd at Frontier Park from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. It’s an evening of celebration for our town and our country, complete with Live Music, Kid Zones, Food, the Posting of the Flags, Fireworks! It’s a great way to enjoy the holiday with all of your friends and neighbors!
JULY 3RD - 4TH
America 250! Colonial Experience
Collin County History Museum
Colonial Experience on the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America on July 3 (12 p.m. – 2 p.m.) and July 4 (11 a.m. – 1 p.m.). The free, family-friendly events will feature a patriotic photo booth, and a reading of the Declaration of Independence at noon. Martha Washington's Shrewsbury Cakes and Thomas Jefferson's ginger cookies will be served.
JULY 4TH
Red, White and BOOM! Fireworks and Concert!
Towne Lake Park in McKinney | 6:00 PM
Enjoy professional fireworks at Red, White and BOOM! The city's massive Independence Day celebration features free family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks show at Towne Lake Park. The city’s grand fireworks finale will be launched over the beautiful Towne Lake. Activities will take place in the grass lot across the street next to McKinney High School.
JULY 4TH
Red, White and BOOM! Parade and Block Party!
Downtown McKinney | 10:00 AM
The Red, White and BOOM! Independence Day celebration kicks off with downtown events that include a hometown parade at 10 a.m. and Yankee Doodle block party from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Families can also explore the many dining and shopping options that downtown has to offer. For more information about the parade or block party, visit VisitMcKinney.com
JULY 11TH
McKinney Margarita Stroll
Historic Downtown McKinney | 11:00 AM
Enjoy delicious margaritas while sipping and strolling in Charming Downtown McKinney! You’ll receive a Margarita Stroll tasting cup and a map to guide you to 15 tasting stops featuring delicious, curated margaritas. Your map also includes 5 BONUS stops with samples like spritzers, craft beer, and other tasty surprises! This event will be partnered with a local nonprofit! Tickets: EventBrite.com
JULY 24TH
Pat Travers Band & The Maylee Thomas Band Live at The Sanctuary
The Sanctuary Music & Events Center | 7:00 PM
The Guitar Sanctuary is proud to present the return of The Pat Travers Band with special guests The Maylee Thomas Band. Tables Including Admission & Seating for 4 People are $175. Individual Seats at Shared Tables on the Main Floor are $45. They will have full Bar and Food Service available from Zin Zen Wine Bistro. Tickets: Events.LeapEvents.com
